Old Town Crier- January 2020 Full Issue

Since 1988 • Priceless

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

January 2020

oldtowncrier.com oldtowncrier

Setting the Standard In Old Town Since 1979

january’20 A Division of Crier Media Group OTC Media LLC PO Box 320386 Alexandria, VA 22320 571-257-5437 office@oldtowncrier.com oldtowncrier.com Published the first week of every month.

Worth waiting for!

PUBLISHER Bob Tagert

6

MARKETING & ADVERTISING Lani Gering Bob Tagert Meg Mullery SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE Ashley Schultz DESIGN & PRODUCTION Electronic Ink 9 Royal Street, SE Leesburg, VA 20175 703. 669. 5502 Peggie Arvidson Nancy Bauer Sarah Becker F. Lennox Campello Steve Chaconas Scott Dicken Doug Fabbioli Nicole Flanagan Lani Gering Miriam Kramer Genevieve LeFranc Sarah Liu

CONTRIBUTORS Meg Mullery Melinda Myers Ron Powers Kim Putens Julie Reardon Ashley Schultz Jaime Stephens Bob Tagert Carl Trevisan Ryan Unverzagt Lori Welch Brown Molly Winans

© 2018 Crier Media Group, Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The Old Town Crier is published monthly and distributed to select Alexandria residents, hotels, restaurants and retail shops. Also distributed in the Annapolis, Fredericksburg, Blue Ridge and Washington, DC areas and St. John, USVI.

Since 1988 • Priceless

26

12

A Bit of History............................................................. 16

Financial Focus.................................................................. 8

Open Space.....................................................................46

After Hours.......................................................................11

First Blush.........................................................................42

Pets of the Month.........................................................19

Alexandria Events............................................................ 3

Fitness................................................................................41

Personality Profile............................................................ 4

Alexandria Symphony Orchestra '19-'20 Season....11

From the Bay...................................................................22

Arts & Antiques..............................................................13

From the Trainer............................................................43

Behind the Bar................................................................32

Gallery Beat.....................................................................12

Business Profile................................................................. 6

Go Fish...............................................................................45

Caribbean Connection...............................................20

Grapevine.........................................................................38

Contributing Writers New Year's Resolutions...11

High Notes.......................................................................10

Cooking Corner..............................................................36

National Harbor.............................................................47

Dining Guide...................................................................34

New Year Message.......................................................... 7

The Last Word.................................................................... 9

Dining Out.......................................................................30

Old Town's Best Happy Hours.................................35

To the Blue Ridge..........................................................24

Exploring Virginia Wines............................................39

On the Road with OTC................................................... 1

Urban Garden.................................................................29

ne Yellowsto

Palencia, Belize

ming

o Park, Wy

Points on Pets.................................................................18 Publisher’s Notes.............................................................. 2 Road Trip...........................................................................26 Social Media Message................................................... 2 Spiritual Renaissance...................................................44 Take Photos, Leave Footprints......................................14

Coppenhag en

, Denmark

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

January 2020

Hamburg, Germany

Moscow, Russia

ico

x Lucas, Me Cabo San

Key West, Florida

oldtowncrier.com oldtowncrier

about the cover

St. John's, Newfoundla n

Championship Snowboarder, Victoria Eretnova.

Photo courtesy of Eretnova.

d

On the road with OTC The OTC definitely made the rounds in 2019. We wanted to share a few of the highlights with you. It has literally traveled the world and been in pretty much every state in the Union. We look forward to more big adventures in the New Year.

If you would like to see your photo in this space, take a high resolution shot and email it with a description for the caption to office@oldtowncrier.com.

Old Town Crier

January 2020 | 1

PUBLISHER’S NOTES

BOB TAGERT

Can you believe it? A new decade and 31 years of publishing The Old Town Crier is in the books. This month starts our 32nd year and our 373rd issue. That is a lot of stories and interviews. There are many people to thank who helped make this journey possible. They know who they are so I will not try to name them all. Thanks to all our advertisers and to our many readers. Thanks for taking this journey with us!

As winter is upon us and thoughts turn to outdoor sports we thought we would introduce you to our cover girl, Victoria Eretnova, in Personality Profile. Besides being a tribute to her home country she is also a National champion snowboarder. Read about the second Natures Nibbles store that recently opened in Hollin Hall and their CBD product line in Business Profile. In To the Blue Ridge read about Julie Reardon’s take on animal rights. With the cold weather upon us check out our Dining Out column for the best of fireside dining in Alexandria. Check out Nancy Bauer’s 10 tips to up your wine game in Grapevine. In A Bit of History, Sarah Becker “emembers the ladies” in their quest for voting rights in her final column about the ERA. In Take Photos, Leave Footprints, Scott Dicken writes about the rise of Eco-tourism and Conservation Vacations. In From the Bay Molly Winans takes a look into the minds of sailors who sail in the winter with our annual column about ”Frost Bite” sailing! Our Road Trip this month is a recap of the trips we took last year. Take a quick look and find a destination that peaks your interest.

The last 31 years have been a blast and we look forward to, maybe not 31, but some great years in the new decade. Have a fantastic 2020!

SOCIAL MEDIA MESSAGE

The History of Social Media

W

ASHLEY ROSSEN

2011: Instagram: This was one of the few apps which gave tough competition to Facebook. In this platform users can share, upload and create photos, in the age of selfies Instagram instantly became popular among the masses.

ith us entering a new decade, I thought it would be a good time to take a look back on the evolution and history of Social Media. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride on the Social Media timeline!

1988: Internet Relay Chat aka IRC, is an open protocol that allowed users with an IRC client to exchange text messages in real time over the Internet. IRC was one of the first chat systems to allow more than two participants to join in a discussion.

1971: First email was sent by Ray Tomlinson, it was sent from one computer to another computer sitting right beside it in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

1996: Sixdegrees.com is founded

by Andrew Weinreich, it is widely considered to be the very first social networking site. It combined popular features such as profiles, friends list, and school affiliations in one service.

1986: Eric Thomas developed the concept of an automated mailing list manager, Listserv. Some of the early software features allowed joining or leaving a list without the need for human administration. Also, the list owner could add or remove subscribers, and edit templates for both welcome and system messages.

2 | January 2020

2002: Friendster: Friendster was once the hottest thing in social networking.

Google wanted to buy it for $30 million back in 2003. This Malaysian built platform, now defunct, was regarded as the pioneer of Social Media.

2003: LinkedIn: The social media for business, emerged as one of the most

popular social media sites in the world.

Now LinkedIn has more than 500 million users.

2004: Facebook: The king of social media, no social media website gained more popularity than Facebook. It was founded by Mark Zuckerberg and now boasts more than 3 billion users.

2005: YouTube: The online video streaming service founded by former PayPal Employees. It allows users to share, upload, and watch content online.

2011: Snapchat: Now you can see stories in almost every social media platform, but Snapchat created that unique idea and revolutionized it. People loved the idea of disappearing messages, photos, videos and stories after 24hrs.

2013: Selfie: The selfie crazy was at the peak in 2013 in the same year Oxford Dictionary named Selfie as word of the year.

2015: Filters: From cat to dog filters and puppy filters to sunglasses filters, posting photos on social media became more creative.

2006: Twitter: Twitter was unique when compared to other social media websites because in this platform you can easily interact with celebrities and share you message in only 140 characters.

2017: TikTok: A video sharing platform where users can edit their video and share with everyone. The platform allows users to share short music videos of 2-15 seconds and shoot looping videos of 2- 60 seconds.

2009: Whatsapp: It was one of the few social media platforms without any ads.

It was a messaging platform. It has 1.5 billion users.

Who can tell what will happen over the next few decades for social media?

Will it even exist in ten or twenty years?

Only time will tell!

Old Town Crier

Alexandria

JANUARY TOURS, EXHIBITS, EVENTS

JAN. 6TH – FEB. 29TH Ice & Lights:The Winter Village at Cameron Run Cameron Run Regional Park 4001 Eisenhower Avenue Glide across the ice at Ice & Lights, The Winter Village at Cameron Run. New this year, the waterpark will be transformed mid-November through February into a winter wonderland with an ice rink, beautifully lit photo ops, music and more. Snap a photo in the 100’ photo arc, roast a marshmallow at the fire pit, walk through a dazzling Christmas tree and warm up in a toasted igloo.

JAN. 10TH – FEB. 2ND “Tangerine” the Exhibit Recurring weekly on Sunday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday Del Ray Artisans 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue 703-838-4827

JAN. 17TH – 26TH Alexandria Winter Restaurant Week 70 Restaurants to Participate $35 three-course dinner for one OR $35 dinner for two Select locations offering lunch from $15 or $22 per person lunch and brunch menus Alexandria Winter Restaurant Week showcases the inventiveness of local chefs in neighborhoods throughout the city, including Old Town, Del Ray, Carlyle and Eisenhower, and the West End. At a range of locales, from neighborhood favorites to restaurants specializing in international cuisine, guests will savor the flavors of Alexandria’s distinctive collection of eateries. In early January, guests will find a flip-book of menus at AlexandriaRestaurantWeek.com.

Alexandria Restaurant Week was launched in 2009 by Visit Alexandria and has since been a favorite amongst patrons and restaurateurs, occurring biannually in the winter and summer. In addition to serving as an economic driver for Alexandria restaurants, Alexandria Restaurant Week bolsters the city’s reputation as a culinary destination.

ALEXANDRIARESTAURANTWEEK.COM #ALXRESTAURANTWEEK

“Tangerine” is a juried exhibit featuring art from local area artists and is guaranteed to bring warmth and brightness to January’s wintry blahs. Join us in this imaginative interpretation of tangerine. The opening reception is on Friday, January 10 from 7-9pm. Stay tuned for creative workshops too!

Details: www.DelRayArtisans.org/exhibits

JAN. 18TH – FEB. 8TH A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder Little Theatre of Alexandria 600 Wolfe Street 703-683-0496 A distant heir to a family fortune sets out to speed up the line of succession by using a great deal of charm…and a dash of murder.

This Tony Award winning musical comedy is a murderous romp filled with unforgettable music, non-stop laughs and showstopping performances. Not to be missed! Details and ticket info: thelittletheatre.com.

JAN. 19TH Apothecary Geek Tour: Behind the Scenes Tour 11:00 am Admission - $15 Stabler-Leadbetter Apothecary Museum 105-107 South Fairfax Street 703-746-3852 If the regular 30-minute tour of the Apothecary Museum isn’t enough, this is the tour for you! Spend more time touring the museum with an expert guide, including the rarely open basement and 3rd floor of the historic pharmacy. Recommended for ages 18 and up. Tour begins at 11 a.m. Please arrive between 10:45-11 a.m., as the museum is not open to the public until 1 p.m., and doors will be locked when the tour begins at 11 a.m. Tickets available online at www.alexandriava. gov/shop/events. Advance purchase recommended, since space is limited.

Connect with us!

VisitAlexandriaVA.com Blog: blog.VisitAlexandriaVA.com

OpenTable VisitAlexandriaVA

Old Town Crier

AlexandriaVA

VisitAlexVA

January 2020 | 3

PERSONALITY PROFILE

BOB TAGERT

hits a (left) Eretnov at age 6. es the slop

Victoria Eretnova

From Russia With Love!

S

ometimes we meet people and we soon learn that there is a lot more to them than meets the eye. One of our favorite restaurants in Alexandria is Bastille. It has very good French food and an engaging staff loaded with personality. One of those pleasant characters is Victoria Eretnova.

Victoria is a bartender and

4 | January 2020

sometimes manager at the restaurant...in other words, she does it all. She is very engaging and a delight with a very warm personality and quick smile and a laugh that melds well with her accent.

Victoria is from Russia and has led a very active life including being a champion snowboarder. With snow on the way, we thought she would make a very good

interview.

Victoria was born in Russia and grew up in a small town in the Ural Mountains. She started skiing at age six and enjoyed that sport until snowboarding became more popular and decided to give it a try when she was twelve years old.

“One of my friends opened up his own snowboard club and asked if I wanted to join,” she tells me. “Of course I did because that was a great chance to be snowboarding for free.” By the end of her first season she won her first race, and has been passionate about the sport ever since.

“I wanted to get better and better,” she says. “When you grow up in a small town it is hard to keep up with the other

kids that could snowboard almost all year long, living in better conditions and having better resorts and equipment,” she says. By 2011, her last year of high school, Victoria had to decide what her future career would be and what college to pick. When she moved to the city and started her first year of college she realized how hard it was to study full time and do sports. Eventually she gave up on competing.

In the winter of 2012, she got invited to help organize one of the local snowboard competitions. “Events went so well that they kept inviting me back”, she says and that is when she went back to skiing and snowboarding but this time not as an athlete.

PERSONALITY PROFILE > PAGE 5

Old Town Crier

OLD TOWN Shoe & Luggage Repair

PERSONALITY PROFILE | FROM PAGE 4

She traveled across Russia organizing and judging events. In the winter of 2013, she got invited to try working at a higher level and that is when she went to Sochi for the first time and worked at World Class ski and snowboard events that were a part of the pre-Olympic testing events. From there she signed a contract to work at the Olympic Games of 2014 as a leading start assistant. The same year, after the Olympics in Sochi, she came to the United States...and that was when her life changed. “I loved it so much and wanted to travel across the US”, she tells me. Even as a kid, she has always been passionate about traveling. She has set foot in nine countries, traveled across China twice, studied in England, and now exploring the United States.

Victoria slowly started getting back to the ski and snowboard industry in the US. She traveled to events spending hours doing research online thinking of how she could get involved.

In 2016, she tried competing again just for fun and did very well. In 2017, she competed at the Nationals for the first time and came in 5th in the slalom and giant slalom. In the winter of 2018, she became a national champion.

Her main reason for being in the United States is so she can get a very unique experience of living in a different country, working, studying and traveling all at the same time plus doing it completely independently.

“I live quite a busy life working 2-3 jobs, studying and traveling,” she says, “I Old Town Crier

regularly work as a bartender/ manager at Bastille. On weekends I teach Russian to little kids. My major at school is computer information systems, attending class twice a week. Mostly it is all about digital and web design, programming data bases, creating web sites from scratch and learning programming languages.

It is something new and very different.”

Any time she might have off, she and her husband Demitri try to plan trips outside of town to just get away, relax, explore new places and meet new people. “There are always so many new things to do, visiting countless national parks or amusement parks, trying something new like jet skiing or wake boarding,” she says with a smile.

She has been preparing for the new winter season, which means she has started her snowboard practices with the Snowboard Racing Club at Round Top, and was headed to her first competition of the year – the North American Cup in Minnesota – when I did this interview. This will be the first time she will

be traveling totally by herself.

These competitions are key to qualifying for the Nationals again and continuing to compete. “I am sure my team is going to help me perform better and better,” she declares. Victoria’s main goal for the next 5 years is to finish her education and find herself a job that will let her freely travel the world anytime, anywhere and to get together with her family. I think the lady has a plan.

Serving Alexandria since 1996 • New Luggage Shoe & Luggage Repair • All Your Shipping Needs

824 King Street Old Town Alexandria, Virginia 703.299.0655 | Donshoe.com Mon-Fri 7:30 am-7 pm • Sat 9 am-5 pm

January 2020 | 5

BUSINESS PROFILE

LANI GERING

NATURES NIBBLES 7910 FORT HUNT ROAD 571-3467-7687 NATURESNIBBLES.COM HOURS: MON: CLOSED TUE – SAT: 10AM – 7PM SUN: 11AM – 6PM

M CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is the second most prevalent of the active ingredients of cannabis (marijuana).

While CBD is an essential component of medical marijuana, it is derived directly from the hemp plant, which is a cousin of the marijuana plant. While CBD is a component of marijuana (one of hundreds), by itself it does not cause a “high.”

According to a report from the World Health Organization, “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential.

To date, there is no evidence of public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.” 6 | January 2020

any of our readers will recognize the couple in the photo accompanying this profile. Chris and Anne Gabriel opened the original Nature’s Nibbles in their home in Arlington in 2005 and then moved to the current brick and mortar location at 2601 Mount Vernon Avenue in the Del Ray section of Alexandria in 2006.

Their concentration at the Del Ray location is all about our furry friends – they feel that our pets are part of our families and deserve the same attention we make to feeding them that we do our human family members.

All of the products in this store concentrate on pet health and nutrition with some fun accessories tossed in.

The new location in Hollin Hall that opened in August 2019 was an inspiration fueled by a major health scare in the family. Anne was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer the year before and underwent treatment. She decided to also take a more natural approach to her lifestyle and Chris and the boys joined her in the effort. They made small, but meaningful, adjustments to their day-to-day lives. They incorporated more

organic and natural foods and supplements into their diets as well as switching from main stream beauty and body products to all natural, non-toxic brands.

As an aside, Anne is now cancer free.

While Anne was undergoing treatment, they decided that they wanted to expand their operation to a second location that not only concentrated on the health and wellness of our furry counterparts, but also on the health and wellness of their human friends, family and neighbors. It was at this time Chris discovered the location they have inhabited in the Hollin Hall Shopping Center in the Fort Hunt area of Alexandria.

(If you need a landmark, it is pretty much next door to the very popular Variety Store that has been tempting area residents since 1958.)

Natures Nibbles “Part Deux” (my nickname for the new digs) has a varied choice of healthy offerings in high quality organic food stuffs, and non-toxic and eco-friendly products for the body and the environment with some fun stuff mixed in – the likes of oven mitts and dish towels with clever graphics and sayings.

One of the things that is of particular interest to many consumers in this day and age are CBD products and this store has a large variety of both consumable and topical products that contain CBD. The products are varied in nature and are pictured in the photos that accompany this column. All of the CBD products offered here have been fully researched to ensure that they are of the highest quality and come from reputable sources. Anne and Chris are adamant about using locally sourced products in all facets of their inventory whenever possible.

Not only are the Gabriel’s adamant about their products, they are adamant about the sustainability of Mother Earth and her inhabitants. They are proponents of reducing, reusing and recycling and give their customers the opportunity to participate as well. They encourage customers to bring their own bags and all plastic bags used for purchases in the store are reused from area stores.

They provide a used bag bin where you can either take or donate plastic bags. No need to be concerned whose logo is on the outside.

Old Town Crier

From the Bay to the

From the

Since 1988

Bay to the

February 2019

January 2019

• Priceless

Since 1988 • Priceless

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

Since 1988 • Priceless

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge

Since 1988 • Priceless

Blue Ridge

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

Since 1988 • Priceless

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

Since 1988 • Priceless

March 2018

Since 1988

March 2019

April 2019

• Priceless

January 2018

From the

Bay to the

g Celebratin 30 years!

Blue Ridge

April 2018

Road Trip

"BREWS, BOOZE & BACCHUS"

of Southern MD The Breweries, Distilleries & Wineries Personality Profile

TO SURGEON "FROM CIRCUS CLOWN Kahanovitz

AND BACK"

Dr. Neil

Gallery Beat

“THE QUILTS OF GEE'S BEND SYNDROME”

SPRINGTIME

An Art Critics Condundrum

RECAP 2017 What a ride!

Personalit

FRANCES KILLPATRICK Author, journalist,

friend.

e

Grapevvin

WARMING UP IN WINE COUNTRY favorites.

From the Bay

oldtowncrier.com

to the Blue Ridge

ACROSS THE

Business Profi le

&B

National Harbor

GRACE EXECUTIVE SERVICES

At Its Best

July 2018

Dining Out

BASTILLE BRASSERIE

In the Light

Chic French Fare &

Since 1988

& BAR

International Wines

From the

Since

RIVER

Celebrates 10

Years!

Take a Ride With Francene

Profile

CHOU CHOU SCANTLIN

Blissfully Being & Dancing

TEMPO

Upscale Northern RESTAURANT Italian & French Cuisine

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

Since 1988 • Priceless

Road Trip

GREENFIELD INN B

Southern Hospitality Personality May 2018

R, VA

ality Profi le

MAURICE

BRETON King Of Comfort...On e Shoes!

Dining Out

Teppanyaki

Since 1988 • Priceless

Road Trip

MR. JON PETERSO

N Father, Philanthropi st & CEO Busine ss Profi le

They Matter Big Time

STEAKHOUSE TOKYO JAPANESE anyone?

Some Loudoun County

COMES TO CULPEPE

Person

Open Space

“LITTLE FLAKES EVERYWHERE” y Profile

Road Trip

Dining Out

Bay to the

• Priceless

Blue Ridge

From the

Bay to the

Blue Ridge

1988 • Priceless June 2018

August 2018

Road Trip

HOTEL THE BOARDWALK PLAZA On the Beach A Victorian Adventure Rehoboth, DE

le Business Profi

Road Trip

THE BITTERSWEET GARDEN &

HISTORIC OCCOQUAN

Fine Statuary, Antiques Accessories for the Garden The Plains, VA

An Oasis & Little Known Gem in VA Business Profile

Dining Out

VILLAGE HARDWARE

LA TRATTORIA

La Dolce Vita on Washington Old Town Alexandria

Quality Products & Personalized Service Since 1979

Street

Five Generations of Strothers Business Profile

Fact vs Fiction

THE MEMORIAL DAY POPPY

Dining Out

Special Feature Happy Mother’s Day!

North

From the Bay to the

ty Profile

Personali

Since 1988 • Priceless

FATHERS OUR “FOUR”local Dads!

An insight to

Ridge

Business

Since 1988

THE HARBOR IS

ROAD TRIP

Wintertime At the Beach Rehoboth, Delaware

e

SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY

in The World Is Stonewall’s Arm? Dining Out

& MASON'S

FAMOUS LOBSTER Crustacean Cuisine ROLLS Since 1988 •Harbor In National Priceless

and Around

Across the

• Priceless

& M/Y OCEAN PEARL

g the World

Grapevin

CRAB CAKE CAFE

Dining Out

AL FRESCO DINING Old Town!

Our Favorites In

Circumnavigatin

THREE DAYS IN

Wine, War, And Where

November 2018

Lulu

September 2018

MARTINA JONES

Happy Birthday USA and Alexandria!

Profile

” E THE DIFFERENCE “EXPERIENCSage Salon & Spa

Since 1988 • Priceless

SKYLARK DRONE

THE HARBOUR GRILLE Up In the RESEARCH Air with Dr. Tulinda The New Kid on the Water In Woodbridge!

Deegan Larsen Personali Blue Ridge ty Profile CAPTAIN

Road Trip

E” THE CHESAPEAK “THE JEWEL OFBeach, Maryland

A TRIBUTE TO MOM

From the Bay to the Blue

Road Trip

A Bit of History VALLEY VIEW FARM "THEY'RE BURNING DOWN THE HOUSE"Celebrating Delaplane, VA

Urban Garden

River

From the Bay

HEATING UP! From the Bay

to the Blue

to the Blue Ridge

Ridge

December 2018

October 2018

BUSINESS PROFILE

Bloomers - Old Town Not Your Traditional Lingerie Store

BIT OF HISTORY

An Interview with Mary V. Thompson Researcher, Historian, Writer

Road Trip

OLD VALLEY PIKE... ....IN “THE” VALLEY Personality Profile

RICK WASMUND

Anne Arundel County, MD

Personality Profile

WENDY RIEGER

News Anchor, Emmy Award Winner &

DINING OUT

Virginia’s Original Copper Fox

Road Trip

Business Profile

AN END OF SUMMER TRIP ALONG THE WEST RIVER

Dining Out

MYSTIQUE

Road Trip ...with a purpose!

TAKE A TREK TO SOME Personality

One of A Kind

Points On Pets

Renaissance Man

An Old Town Icon

Dining Out AUGIE'S MUSSEL HOUSE OLDTwistHOUSE COSMOPOLITA Traditional Belgian Cuisine With a Modern N GRILL Authentic German Cuisine in Old Town

Dining Out

EXECUTIVE DINER

Celebrate

VIRGINIA WINE

Month

!

Grapevine

THE WINE COUNTRY

The Original Hard Times Cafe "Chili" for When It's "Chilly"

Fine Jewelry Inspired by Passion

VA WINERIES

Profile

HOWARD ROGERS

Maritime Artist and

Business Profi SUPPORT ANIMAL le SERVICE ANIMAL OR EMOTIONAL There Is a Big Difference RANDOM HARVEST HOME FURNISHINGS

OF VIRGINIA

Not Your Typical Diner Experience Across the River

THE HARBOR HEATS UP FOR THE

HOLIDAYS

Road Trip

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

Old Town Alexandria

Since 1988 • Priceless

SOCIETY FAIR

Gourmet Emporium, Wine Bar & Cafe

Dining Out

TEQUILA & TACO

Feliz Navidad With a

Twist

Grapevine

HANDCRAFTED WINES FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Across the River

NATIONAL HARBOR

Since 1988 • Priceless

Celebrating 30 Years!

Hartwood Winery, Fredericksburg, VA

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

oldtowncrier.com

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

July 2019

oldtowncrier.com

Happy New Year!

As we reflect on 2019, we look forward to 2020 and the new decade!

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

Since 1988 • Priceless

Since 1988 • Priceless

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

June 2019

oldtowncrier.com

Since 1988 • Priceless

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

August 2019

Let’s Celebrate the Dog Days of Summer! oldtowncrier.com

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

Since 1988 • Priceless

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

October 2019

September 2019

November 2019

C E L E B R AT E

oldtowncrier.com

oldtowncrier.com

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

Since 1988 • Priceless Since 1988 • Priceless

oldtowncrier.com

Christmas on the Potomac & More!

May 2019

Lest we forget...

Can you guess the flower?

GRAPEVINE

Business Profi le

Unique and Evolving

Virginia Wine Month oldtowncrier.com

December 2019

C E L E B R AT I N G

OUR VETERANS oldtowncrier.com

AND THANKSGIVING!

oldtowncrier.com

oldtowncrier

FINANCIAL FOCUS

CARL TREVISAN, CFP© & STEPHEN BEARCE

How to Raise Kids with Money Smarts

P

arents have a responsibility to teach their children about finances—and that’s true for wealthy families and less affluent families alike.

Kids are smart enough to pick up on signals that their family may have more than others. But if the conversation stops at the benefits that money can bring, you’re missing out on important life lessons. They’re not really being taught how to be financially responsible once they leave the house and become independent.

What steps can parents take to teach both sensitivity and responsibility about money?

Step 1: Find teachable moments.

It can be difficult to find time to sit down and talk specifically about wealth, but natural opportunities to teach pop up every day.

For example, you can incorporate financial responsibility into an impromptu math lesson about money: If you find something that originally cost $100 and it’s on sale for 30% off, you can ask kids how much the new price is—and, now that they are only spending $70, what they might do with the $30 that’s left.

Step 2: Take a lifelong view toward financial literacy.

Every child, and especially those who will one day inherit substantial wealth, should have a tool kit of basic financial literacy skills by age 18, including concepts such as how to spend, how to save, how to give, and the value of a dollar.

This can start very early with an exercise as simple as a three piggy banks analogy.

You encourage the child to divide any money he or she 8 | January 2020

receives into three piggy banks: spending, saving, and community/charity. This shows the concept of different types or purposes of money as opposed to all being for spending. Repeating this exercise can help ingrain the habit of saving regularly.

By late childhood or

adolescence, parents can add concepts such as what it means to invest, what companies one might invest in, and how you assess risk with an investment.

You can encourage children in high school to think about college expenses logically by examining the costs and

coming up with a credible college budget. Ask them to consider basic questions: What will you need in order to make this happen? What will the family need to supply, and what is the student expected to supply, in terms of tuition, books, room and board, transportation, and

normal spending money?

And parents and grandparents can continue to encourage responsible, longterm financial responsibility by giving young adults an incentive to begin saving for retirement early. If you’re able, and they have earned income, offer to match what they save into a Roth IRA. It’s also wise to coax contributions to a 401(k) at work.

Step 3: Show your kids how it’s done.

Your child’s healthy relationship with money begins with an open and honest relationship within a family that models good money behavior.

These discussions can be challenging, but the fruit is well worth the labor.

Stress education and expect them to do well in school.

The parents who do really well in teaching financial literacy typically lead by example— they tend to be savers, and they’re more careful with spending money. Remember to be that example.

This article was written by/ for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Carl M. Trevisan, Managing DirectorInvestments and Stephen M. Bearce, First Vice PresidentInvestments in Alexandria, VA at 800-247-8602.

Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOT BANKGUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

Old Town Crier

THE LAST WORD

MIRIAM R. KRAMER

A Melting Pot of Comedy

J

anuary is generally anticlimactic and dreary after the holidays, and the beginning of this year may feel particularly dreary in comparison with the ebullient atmosphere prevalent almost 10 years ago.

Yet it’s also a symbolic start.

If we learn anything through reading about comedians’ lives, it’s that we can survive almost anything with a great sense of humor and drive. The United States is a rich stew of comedic traditions that continues to attract those driven to innovate and break boundaries through this most elusively mastered art form, one that requires the freedom of speech and ideas offered here. Joan Rivers, a second-generation Jewish immigrant, proved herself a master of re-invention and a trailblazer for female comics everywhere. Leslie Bennetts’ biography Last Girl Before Freeway is a timely look at one of the most fascinating, tireless, and driven women in show business. In his memoir American on Purpose, the charming Scottish comedian Craig Ferguson looks back at a life conquering demons and how he saw America as his beacon, creating a new career through stand-up, a stint on The Drew Carey Show, and as a late-night TV host, becoming an American citizen in the process.

Having read Joan Rivers’ autobiographies Enter Talking and Still Talking, along with watching the compelling 2010 documentary about her, Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work, I could not wait to read this biography. Bennetts, a wellrespected writer for Vanity Fair and other publications, started researching it almost immediately after Rivers’ death in August 2014.

Rivers, the daughter of two Russian Jewish immigrants, was torn between their incessant Old World demands that she become a doctor’s or dentist’s wife for financial security, and her own modern, Old Town Crier

single-minded dreams of making a career in show business, which her parents viewed as being one step up from prostitution. Every advance of her early career seemed like a Sisyphean ordeal as she started out as an opening act at strip clubs, working her way to better venues, and eventually taking on an initially unwilling boys’ club with a 1960s stint in the famed Second City Improv troupe.

Like many a Jewish member of show business, she changed her name to better blend in with a WASP culture. When she finally got her big break on Johnny Carson, she felt that she had finally hit her stride.

Meeting her husband Edgar Rosenberg, a producer, and having her beloved daughter Melissa in 1969 while acting as a guest host for The Tonight Show merely cemented her happiness in her new marriage, and the feeling that with Edgar, she had a partner who would always look after both her and her career.

In the 1980s she reached a mighty pinnacle by becoming The Tonight Show’s permanent guest host, at a time when an appearance by any comedian on the show was a make-orbreak career moment. She also became the first woman ever offered her own late-night talk show in 1986 on the fledgling FOX network. Johnny Carson never spoke to her again when he found out that she was starting her own show opposite his time slot. When Edgar, her officious, insecure managerhusband undermined her relationship with TV executive Barry Diller and the network, they were summarily fired from her show in 1987 and also black-balled from The Tonight Show. Unable to recover from this loss and his black cloud of depression, her husband very publicly committed suicide, leaving Rivers herself temporarily suicidal, having fallen from the pinnacles of power with her daughter Melissa blaming Rivers for her

father’s death.

The power of Joan Rivers lies in her early-instilled immigrant work ethic, desire to be financially independent, tenacity, and her seemingly limitless energy to bounce back from personal tragedy. Soon her brash humor and survival instincts kicked in, and she decided that she would walk through any door on her way back up that career ladder.

Having perused Rivers’ own memoirs, I found a more comprehensive picture of her career difficulties here through reading outside perspectives from former managers, lawyers, and producers who saw her disrespected husband as her blind spot and Achilles’ heel.

Bennetts successfully pinpoints Rivers’ self-loathing because of her lack of beauty and early pudginess as fuel feeding both her need for approval and the eating disorder that caused her to avoid meals to stay thin. It also caused her to get excessive plastic surgery procedures that ended up leaving her face an artificial mask. Her comedy over time turned towards making fun of beautiful women who were heavy or had gained weight, such as Elizabeth Taylor, who became the target of her fat jokes and thus ironically her meal ticket in the 1980s. (The singer Adele became one of her last targets in the last two years before her death.) As a result of Joan’s insecurities, she felt free to be cruel and superficial when commenting on high-andmighty showbiz figures, even in one of her most popular recent shows, Fashion Police.

Yet she showed a completely opposite side in displaying endless warmth, generosity, and responsiveness to her public, loyal staff, good friends, and family. She also supported the charity God’s Love We Deliver, whose original mission was focused on helping AIDS patients, when to do so was potentially taboo.

Coming from a financially

insecure childhood and unstable career, Rivers was as focused on regaining wealth as she was in succeeding in comedy. She took any show business job possible after mending fences with her daughter. Her biographer astutely notes that she never got the recognition she deserved for her achievements in all areas of her life. In particular, she was never recognized by the financial establishment for the fashion and accessories empire she built on the QVC shopping network, which left her with the income she required to live lavishly and to the manor born in her over-the-top Upper East Side apartment.

As Bennetts reports it, Joan Rivers’ life was so full, so rich with ups and downs, that there is no way to encapsulate it.

When I first finished reading this biography I sensed something missing, and felt that Bennetts’ capable, competent reporting had not captured her subject. Then I realized from knowing Joan Rivers’ background reasonably well that no book could ever completely capture this woman’s endless internal contradictions, achievements and losses, not to mention her frenetic and sometimes desperate efforts to stay on top and outwork people half her age. She lived several lives in one lifetime. The author recognizes Joan’s success when she dedicated this book to “everyone who has lost love or work or money or success or youth or beauty or hope: may Joan’s indomitable spirit… inspire you to triumph over any odds, and remind you to keep your sense of humor along the way.”

For those who enjoyed The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, which followed David Letterman on CBS from 2005-2014, his memoir will serve as a touching and compelling read. He grew up in

workingclass Glasgow in a loving family, but also experienced a drab Scottish school system that emphasized obedience over innovation, fostered class enmities between Protestants and Catholics that were a fainter echo of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, and broke any desire to complete any education past the age of 16. On a trip at age 13 to visit his uncle in the United States, Craig fell in love with New York City and America in particular. With its emphasis on multiculturalism, innovation, and possibility, it served as the antithesis of his school experience with its emphasis on corporal punishment and conformity.

Thus the seeds were planted for his eventual jump across the pond.

An autodidact and punk rock musician, Craig started work as an apprentice electrician after leaving school while playing gigs and beginning to drink and do drugs heavily. Over time, he lost his job and met various girlfriends, losing them after blacking out and becoming increasingly irresponsible. He suffered intense anxiety along with withdrawal, which he could only quell with more alcohol or drugs. After missing a Christmas Eve flight from London to a family Christmas in Glasgow by going on a bender, he finally strongly considered committing suicide by jumping from Tower Bridge in London at age 30. His moment of clarity allowed his friends to put him in rehab, which saved his life.

Ferguson’s description of his problems with alcohol in particular are searingly honest and quite possibly helpful to THE LAST WORD > PAGE 11

January 2020 | 9

HIGH NOTES

I

found myself listening to a lot of EDM last year and thought it would be fun to end 2019 by telling you about the top five up-andcoming artists to watch out for in 2020. There is so much great music coming from the EDM community today, be sure to explore beyond this list. My top five presented below are too hard to rank one to five so let’s just call them the Top Five.

But the first I will mention is Netherlands duo, ANOTR. ANOTR have been making a name for themselves throughout the EDM scene since 2015. Although electronic based, ANOTR’s music transcends the concept of genre. They have proven time and again that they are beholden to nothing but their own creative impulse when it comes to their music. ANOTR even started their own label (NO ART) to drive the point home. They have enjoyed rapid fan growth through high energy performances and a consistent stream of amazing music. The boys in ANOTR are currently in the studio working on new music. Look out for them on all major digital music platforms.

The Los Angeles based Progressive & Techno artist “i_o” is another artist that has made an indelible impression on me. The stage name i_o belongs to producer Garrett Lockhart. Formerly known as Fawks, Lockhart has solidified his brand and style as i_o.

Influences such as deadmau5 and UMEK can be heard in i_o’s music, but his unique creative flavor is unmistakably present throughout his work.

Lockhart’s music has been described as “dark electro sounds with heavy techno grooves and deep evolving melodies”. That sound has resonated with millions of listeners and concertgoers around the world who are helping i_o become one of EDM’s high-profile artists.

Lockhart is currently on tour 10 | January 2020

RON POWERS

with a string of performances lined up in the US, Canada, and China. Be sure to catch a show when he comes your way.

My favorite artists on this list is Los Angeles based G.H. Hat. After releasing 290 Classical tracks, this multigenre performer/producer who has been described as a “Wizard with his versatility” decided to try his hand

Got a Problem (I Wonder…) [feat. Mickey Shiloh]” and “Sukiayki (feat. Alina Renae)” both charted within the top 20 of Billboard’s Dance Club Songs (Top 50). Keeping the momentum going, he promptly released a second version of “Sukiyaki” featuring the Japanese superstar Eriko Tamura. G.H. Hat considers himself a forerunner of a new style of electronic

following on the heels of “I Got a Problem (I Wonder…)”, tells us that G.H. Hat is no “one-hit-wonder”. And G.H. Hat, currently in the studio cooking up new tracks expected for release in 2020, is definitely one of the most anticipated acts in the EDM arena in 2020.

Next, we have Australian born GG Magree. GG is one of the most sought-after trap/

FIVE IN 2020

UP-AND-COMING EDM STARS TO WATCH

at EDM. Starting off with a bang his first two EDM Instrumentals, “Primal” and “Joyogistic” climbed the Soundcloud charts, then his first two vocal releases “I

music which he describes as “danceable and listenable”.

And indeed, it is. Whether you love catchy melody or rhythmic dance music, you’ll love G.H. Hat. “Sukiyaki”,

bass stars in the business.

Her relentless club anthems and girl-next-door image have lifted her from smalltime DJ to playing massive shows around the world and

collaborating with superstars like Pharrell, Azealia Banks, and Jauz. GG’s artistic prowess is undeniable, but her true genius lies in her jaw dropping concerts. This year she delivered captivating performances at Ever After Music Festival, Audiotistic Bay Area, and Prime Music Festival. She’s currently on tour and is slotted to perform at this summer’s mega EDM festival, Electric Forest.

Finally, we have the Los Angeles born and bred NuKid. This talented G-House artist gained international recognition after releasing his knockout remix of Alessia Cara’s “Wild Things”. His pounding beats and gritty basslines were also recognized by the EDM industry giant “Insomniac” when they named him winner of their Discover Project. Major artists like David Guetta, Malaa and Oliver Heldens have also highlighted him as an artist to watch. NuKid’s star is rising fast with the help of avid fans and performances at top festivals around the world.

He is currently in the studio working on new music. Keep an ear out for it on all major music platforms.

I hope you enjoy these talented artists as much as I do. Take some time to check them out. I don’t think you’ll regret it. For more information about ANOTR, i_o, G.H. Hat, GG Magree, and NuKid, you can find news, tour dates, photos, and more on their websites and social media sites. If you’d like to hear their music, you can find them on major digital platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Google Play.

Ron Powers is an independent A&R specialist and music industry consultant, and is constantly searching for, discovering and writing about new talent.

Old Town Crier

Contributing Writers New Year’s Resolutions:

Alexandria Symphony Orchestra 2019-2020 Season

Scott Dicken – Take Photographs, Leave Footprints - To take more time to consider the environmental impact of long-haul travel and how to best offset that impact in meaningful ways.

Steve Chaconas – Go Fish - Spending more time fishing with the kids in the family, teaching angling skills and life lessons.

Lori Welch Brown – Open Space - In 2020, I resolve to do more art and CREATE. Be the light in the room and express gratitude daily--especially for my rock, XXL. Oh…. and eat more veggies and less carbs.

Ron Powers – High Notes - I am going to listen to all sorts of people and learn from them no matter how different. Everyone has value.

Peggie Arvidson – Spiritual Renaissance - To keep looking on the bright side no matter what happens to knock the light out.

F. Lennox Campello – Gallery Beat – I plan on visiting more exhibits.

Ashley Schutz Rossen – Social Media Message - I am going to try to remember to ask my husband before I bring home anymore animals.

Molly Winans – From the Bay - Log 100 days on the water in sailboats, standup paddleboards, or other boats to qualify for the SpinSheet Century Club.

Melinda Myers – Urban Garden - I want to spend more time with family and friends and enjoying my gardens. Combining these goals - inviting friends over for a visit and dining from my garden fresh veggies- may just increase the odds of success.

Miriam R. Kramer – Last Word - To break old habits and cherish imperfections.

THE LAST WORD | FROM PG 9

those who suffer from it. He calls it a “clever and patient monster” in Chapter 15 of his book, which feels as if he’s speaking to an AA meeting in the most unvarnished terms.

While not claiming to know more than other alcoholics, he speaks of his soul-searching, proclaiming “Understand this, if nothing else. It’s not about how much you drink. It’s not about the alcohol really at all.

It’s about what the alcohol does to the alcoholic. That’s why I would never advocate temperance for those who don’t need it. If I could drink like a normal person, then I would drink….Here is something else that proves, to my mind, anyway, that I am an alcoholic.

If I could drink alcohol like a normal person, I would not be interested in drinking alcohol. This is sometimes very difficult for non-alcoholics to understand.”

Ferguson’s book is inspirational, funny, and serious. His story reveals how Old Town Crier

he found his way from the bottom of a bottle to a very successful showbiz career, marriage, and family in a country he had come to love as the fabled land of opportunity.

He had put his life-threatening demons to rest, using his sense of humor, intelligence, and grasp of comedy to open up his life. He had also come to live in a country he found welcoming, warm, and open; a place he could enrich with his eccentric sensibilities and acute observations.

Luckily this country has always had the psychological space to absorb Joan Rivers, Craig Ferguson and all other types of immigrants who pursue their art to, as Donald O’Connor so wonderfully warbles in Singin’ in the Rain, “make ’em laugh.”

Publishers Note: This column is an excerpt from Kramer’s January 2017 column. Ms. Kramer was unable to provide her column due to unavoidable circumstances.

STRING SERENADE

James Ross, Music Director Berta Rojas, guitar MOZART: Serenade No. 6 “Serenata notturna” CASTELNUOVO-TEDESCO: Guitar Concerto in D Major PRICE: Andante Moderato from String Quartet in G Major (arr. by James Ross) SCHUBERT: Symphony No. 5 Saturday, February 15, 2020 at 8:00 p.m.

Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall Sunday, February 16, 2020 at 3:00 p.m.

George Washington Masonic Memorial

MUSICAL TALES OF BELONGING James Ross, Music Director Claudia Chudacoff, concertmaster PRECHTL: Tribute (world-premiere) FRANK: Three Latin-American Dances RIMSKY-KORSAKOV: Scheherazade

Saturday, May 16, 2020 at 8:00 p.m.

Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall Sunday, May 17, 2020 at 3:00 p.m.

George Washington Masonic Memorial Tickets: $20-$85 for adults. Student tickets $10 (with ID). Youth tickets $5 (age 18 & under). Military, senior and group discounts available. Purchase online at www. alexsym.org or call 703-548-0885.

Free parking provided by the ASO at both venues. The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center is accessible by Metro bus lines 7A, 7B, 7F, 7Y, 25A, 25C and 25E, as well as DASH bus line AT6. The George Washington Masonic Memorial is accessible by the Blue and Yellow metro line (King Street station), numerous Metro, Dash and Richmond Highway Express bus lines, and the King Street Trolley in Old Town, Alexandria.

AFTER HOURS Birchmere 703.549.7500 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave. birchmere.com The Blackwall Hitch 571-982-3577 5 Cameron St. theblackwallhitch.com Carlyle Club 411 John Carlyle Dr. 703-549-8957 thecarlyleclub.com Chadwicks 203 S. Strand St. 703.836.4442 Evening Star Cafe 703.549.5051 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave.

The Fish Market 703.836.5676 105 King St. fishmarketoldtown.com La Portas 703.683.6313 1600 Duke St. The Light Horse 703.549.0533 715 King St. lighthorserestaurant.com Murphys Irish Pub 703.548.1717 713 King St. murphyspub.com O’Connell’s 703.739.1124 112 King St.

Rock It Grill 703.739.2274 1319 King St. Shooter McGees 703.751.9266 5239 Duke St. shootermcgees.com Southside 815 703.836.6222 815 S. Washington St. St. Elmos 703.739.9268 2300 Mt. Vernon Ave. Taverna Cretekou 703.548.8688 818 King St.

TJ Stones 703.548.1004 608 Montgomery St. tjstones.com LaTrattoria 703-548-9338 305 S. Washington St. Two Nineteen 703.549.1141 219 King St. Village Brauhaus 710 King St. 703-888-1951 These establishments offer live entertainment.

Call to confirm show times, dates and cover charges. Check our advertisers’ websites.

October 2019 | 11

GALLERY BEAT

F. LENNOX CAMPELLO

THE ART GALLERY… A FRAGILE LABOR OF LOVE

Andrew Wodzianski is a Fanboy

A

rt galleries (according to the US Chamber of Commerce from the last time that I examined the subject) are the second most likely business in the USA to fail (first is restaurants).

John Pancake, a good friend and a former Washington Post Arts editor once told me that “running an art gallery in DC is a heroic endeavor”, and Pancake was not that off the mark with that assessment.

When I first opened the first Fraser Gallery in Georgetown in late 1996, we immediately

12 | January 2020

had lots of people giving us advice on how to succeed, as well as someone who, once they heard what the galleries intended to focus upon, noted that he “gave us six months before we closed.”

Six years later we opened a second gallery in Bethesda, at the time the largest independently owned commercial fine arts gallery in the DMV, an acronym which I invented around that same time, at least according to an investigation of the origins of “DMV” to refer to the Greater DC region conducted in 2016

by the Washington City Paper.

Art galleries, when run by ethical dealers, are fragile labors of love, and while we sigh when we see them close, we should applaud and encourage them when they sprout from the most unlikely of places.

Freight Gallery is an artist run micro/pop-up gallery in a 1925 Hollister Whitney freight elevator in Washington, DC. The space is 75 inches wide, 95 inches high, and 85 inches deep–a perfect container for displaying sculpture and small installations. Its mission is to

create more opportunities for artists.

In a recent review by Eric Hope of Diane Szczepaniak’s installation at Freight Gallery, (titled Floating Light) and published in that media jewel known as East City Art, Hope writes: “Freight Gallery, a new exhibition space in northeast DC’s Langdon neighborhood, creates experiential moments by displaying works in a nontraditional environment.

Located deep within an old brick warehouse, it takes the GALLERY BEAT > PAGE 13

Old Town Crier

ART&ANTIQUES

Curzon Hill Antiques 108 S. Columbus Street

B&B Art Gallery 215 King Street

Exclusively representing the works of

ANTIQUES

The Hour 1015 King Street

Gallery West 1213 King Street

Price and additional images upon request.

Spurgeon-Lewis Antiques 112 N. Columbus Street

A Galerie 315 Cameron Street

BW Art, Antiques & Collectibles 108 N. Fayette Street

Enamelist’s Gallery 105 N. Union Street

Random Harvest 810 King Street

Imperfections Antiques 1210 King Street

Printmakers, Inc. 105 N. Union Street

Acme Mid-Century + Modern 128 S. Royal Street

The Antique Guild 113 N. Fairfax Street

Van Bommel Antiek Hous 1007 King Street

Silverman Galleries 110 N. St. Asaph Street

Lloyd’s Row 119 S. Henry Street

Red Barn Mercantile 1117 King Street

GALLERIES

Washington Square Antiques 425 S. Washington Street

Torpedo Factory Art Center 105 N. Union Street

Susquehanna Antique Co. 608 Cameron Street

Principle Gallery 208 King Street

Old Town Antiques 222 S. Washington Street

Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery 105 N. Union Street

Verdigris Vintage 1215 King Street

St. George Gallery 105 N. Alfred Street

Cavalier Antiques 400 Prince Street

The Art League 105 Union Street

Sumpter Priddy III 323 S. Washington Street

Local Colour Old Town 218 N. Lee Street

Betty Grisham Studio 105 N. Union Street

Henry Street Antiques 115 S. Henry Street

Icon Galleria 101 N. Union Street

Imagine Artwear 112 King Street

eyes a moment to adjust to the dark hallway leading to the space. When the lights flip on, the “gallery” reveals itself to be a literal freight elevator. While the incongruity of viewing art in an industrial locale could easily tumble into the realm of kitsch, the gallery’s debut exhibition, Floating Light featuring a site-specific work by sculptor Diane Szczepaniak, creates a compelling dialogue between the work and the environment it occupies.”

Next at the gallery is the talented sculptor Mary Early – her work is coming up at Freight Gallery on January 12.

Over at the Open Gallery at Montgomery College in their Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus, we have Andrew Wodzianski’s works in Andrew Wodzianski is a Fanboy, which was the third show in 2019 of that year’s themed exhibition series, Self, which “invites artists to explore contemporary ideas of Self Portraiture by engaging with the self through either representational or conceptual means.”

Wodzianski is one of the most gifted painters in the area, a painter who makes MICA in Baltimore proud, and who has been exhibiting regularly in the DMV since he was a graduate student there (decades ago).

The gallery notes that “Andrew Wodzianski is a Fanboy represents a tenyear retrospective of self-portraiture wherein Old Town Crier

Wodzianski has intentionally concealed his identity. Instead of introspective depictions of the human condition, Wodzianski reveals little of his true self. Whether a painting, photograph, or performance, each work is another layer of artifice. When viewed as a collection, an inkling of personality begins to materialize. Through an amalgamation of late 20th Century adolescent Americana, identity roles and contradictions and complexities can be gleaned.

There is much left unexplained, but two things are certain; Wodzianski is clearly a pop culture fanatic and a selfdescribed man-child. He is a fanboy.”

The works on display are not only representations of Wodzianski’s fanboyishness, but in the manner in which they are composed and delivered, are also brilliant examples of what a talented painter, armed with formidable painting skills and an open mind, can deliver.

The gallery is located at The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation Arts Center located at 930 King Street, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

Wodzianski is also an active curator, as a fan boy, it is natural that a progression of that aspect of his nature crosses over into the Wodzianskian Empire, a minor empire of the Start Wars saga.

As a result, three years

Oerth Gallery 420 S. Washington Street Jeffrey Winter Fine Arts 110A S. Columbus Street

“ONE OF THE MOST INTERESTING PEOPLE OF WASHINGTON, DC” – Washington City Paper

Johnston Matthew 105 N. Union Street

Syreni Caledonii (Northern Atlantic Mermaid). Watercolor, charcoal and Conte. 2019, 12x36 inches.

Alida Anderson Art Projects, LLC, Washington, DC www.alidaanderson.com / info@alidaanderson.com

Huddy Studio 105 N. Union Street Mezzanine Multiples 105 N. Union Street Silverman Galleries 110 N. St. Asaph Street Cochran David 105 N. Union Street

ago, Wodzianski curated an exhibition of “unusual” works from fellow Star Wars nerds who also happen to be superbly talented artists, and now… coinciding with the release of the most recent Star Wars films, comes a third and final show of paintings, photographs, and mixedmedia sculptures by artists Scott G. Brooks, Chris Bishop, Jared Davis, Steve Strawn, and Wodzianski. The show titled The Last Holiday Starkillers was staged at 609 H St. NE in DC, and was a welcome addition to the epic intergalactic saga and was well worth a visit.

EXPLORE YOUR Maker-to-Market Store

GALLERY BEAT | FROM PG 12

Kelly’s Art & Frame 510 N. Washington Street

F. Lennox Campello

915 King St. • Old Town Alexandria 703-684-1435

Check us out online at

oldtowncrier.com

Looking Ahead

It’s a new year and a great time to concentrate on doing a little something special for yourself. It’s the perfect time to use your “Woolflower” coupon at Imagine Artwear. We have wonderful winter outfits; fabulous outerwear including hats, headbands and gloves; plus lots of new arrivals. We’re open until 7pm Monday through Saturday and until 5pm on Sunday.

15% off any one purchase In-store items only, excludes sale merchandise.

Expires January 31, 2020

1124 King Street

•

Alexandria, Virginia 22314 www.imagineartwear.com

Mon – Sat 10 am – 7 pm

•

•

(703) 548-1461

Sunday 11 am – 5 pm

January 2020 | 13

TAKE PHOTOS, LEAVE FOOT PRINTS

SCOTT DICKEN

The Rise of Eco-Tourism and Conservation Vacations

I

f you’re like me, by early January Christmas pudding is merely a fond memory, and I guiltily admit to friends that I haven’t made a New Year’s resolution yet, particularly one I will endeavor to keep.

Yet, this year I’m feeling inspired by a recent trip to Zimbabwe.

Picture this: a newborn rhino, barely 3-months old, shelters from the mid-day sun in its mother’s shadow as we sit, gazing in awe, a mere handful of feet away. Everything is silent other than the consistent staccato of camera shutters; everyone angling for the perfect photo that will no doubt later adorn social media feeds, including my own. This is what a classic African safari is all about - and the Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve on the outskirts of Victoria Falls Town, Zimbabwe, provided us with ample such encounters. But for most of us on the trip, our stay is about more than just capturing envy-inducing holiday snaps. “I chose to volunteer on a conservation project to learn as much as possible about wildlife, conservation and local culture,” says my fellow volunteer, Greg Salter from the UK. “But this baby rhino is definitely an added bonus.”

By prioritizing vacations that give back to the environment and communities they impact, my fellow travelers are echoing a fastgrowing sustainability-focused, eco-tourism trend. Resolution worthy? You bet.

What is Eco-Tourism?

Ecotourism, largely thought of as a subset of the broader sustainable tourism industry, is defined by the International Ecotourism Society as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education”.

That broad definition encompasses everything from directly funding conversation programs to harnessing the tourism industry to build environmental awareness while minimizing negative social impact. It’s that wide-ranging scope that is proving attractive to tourists across the globe, a fact that is reflected by 87% of global travelers saying that they want to travel sustainably, according to a 2018 Sustainable Travel Report released by Booking.com.

While most consumers naturally think of ecofriendly accommodation options when they hear the phrase ‘eco-tourism’, an increasing number of tourists are making more comprehensive and impactful wildlife and environmental conservation projects a core component of their annual vacation schedule.

It was this concept I hoped to explore during my month-long stay on the Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve.

The Nakavango Conservation Program The focus of my visit to Zimbabwe was to participate in the Reserve’s Nakavango Conservation Program. We had the opportunity to learn about, and make personal contributions to, ‘behind the scenes’ conservation and game reserve management activities, wildlife research, and community development initiatives, including: Participating in conservation and environmental lectures and daily game drives with the Program’s expert wildlife guides and Reserve Manager which educate participants about the fragile ecosystem and its

14 | January 2020

Old Town Crier

interconnectivity from a conservation perspective; Studying the dynamic of wildlife within the Reserve by conducting game transects through the Reserve to record valuable and necessary research data about wildlife populations and movements; Supporting local communities and primary schools with a range of sustainability-focused activities such as school feeding programs; Undertaking vital reserve road maintenance activities that offer valuable support in the Reserve’s efforts to protect its endangered black rhino population from poaching, preserve ecosystems, and prevent brush fires from spreading; Building check dams that assist in the management of soil erosion during the annual rains; and Removing alien vegetation that’s recognized as a national threat due to its prevention of native species from thriving.

The Nakavango program has been consistently rated as one of the world’s top wildlife conservation volunteer programs by International Volunteer HQ. With program durations ranging from just 2 weeks up to 3 months, it’s something that can hold appeal to even the most vacationstarved of DC wonks. Rosie Smith, another of the program’s volunteers, describes the program as “the perfect choice for anyone, from their teens to their twilight years, with only two weeks to spare because of life commitments but with a desire to learn as much as possible and make a real contribution”.

The Program’s goals fit neatly within the burgeoning eco-tourism conservation market. “Nakavango gives you the chance to encounter Africa’s iconic wildlife, while actively participating in its conservation” says Nakavango Operations Manager, Justine McGregor. “Through our work, we want to preserve Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve and develop the nearby Woodlands Village. Our aim is to teach volunteers about the importance of supporting the world’s fragile wildernesses and the communities who rely on them.

By giving volunteers a hands-on experience, we hope to inspire their love of our small corner of the world and its people, while embarking on the adventure of a lifetime!”

Interested to Learn More?

The increasing demand for eco-tourism and, more specifically, conservation vacations has led to a daunting surge in consumer options. If you find yourself interested in exploring short-term conservation programs, be they wildlife or culture focused, my advice is to begin by exploring providers such as International Volunteer HQ, Global Vision International, or The Great Projects. Much like internet search engines, services such as these provide useful aggregation tools – bringing conservation programs from across the globe into one searchable repository and taking much of the back-breaking research away from consumers. After finding a suitable program, my advice would be to try and book directly with that program locally to ensure that every dollar you spend goes to the conservation project of your choice and bypasses the feetaking middle-man.

If you want to learn more specifically about the Nakavango Conservation Program, then make sure to visit nakavango.com or the Zimbabwe page of takephotosleavefootprints.com. New Years resolution – nailed it.

About the Author: Born in the UK, Scott has lived in the DC area on and off for the last 15 years. He is the writer, photographer, and owner of the travel website, TakePhotosLeaveFootprints.com where he shares his passion for global travel through destination guides, travel hacks and photography tips.

The Take Photos Leave Footprints Visit to Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve was a sponsored visit paid for, in part, by the Nakavango Conservation program. All views are those of the author.

Old Town Crier

January 2020 | 15

A BIT OF HISTORY

©2019 SARAH BECKER

‘Remember the Laidies’

I

n 1920 the United States, as per the 18th Amendment, prohibited “the manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors;” the U.S. Supreme Court concluded the United States Steel Corporation was not an illegal monopoly, and the Virginia

16 | January 2020

General Assembly voted not to ratify the Woman’s Suffrage Amendment. Yet Virginia’s Equal Suffrage League [ESL]— “most likely the largest State Association in the South”— claimed 32,000 members.

“In 1901 the Virginia General Assembly authorized a convention to draft a new constitution that would, among other things, restrict the vote to white men,” the Library of Virginia explained. The State constitution remained mostly in effect until 1971.

Also in 1920: The Red Scare took root, and five members of the New York legislature were expelled for being members of the Socialist party. The Socialist Party nominated labor leader Eugene V. Debs for president; women comprised one-fifth of the nation’s work force, and outgoing two-term President Woodrow Wilson was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

“Let us have faith that right makes might, and in that faith, let us dare to do our duty as we understand it,” Wilson then said.

Duty, as defined

by The American Heritage dictionary: “moral or legal obligation;

responsibility.”

Is it not the duty of the 2020 Virginia House of Delegates, the Virginia General Assembly to finally ratify the Equal Rights Amendment [ERA]?

Harry F. Byrd Sr.’s conservative Virginia did not ratify the 1919 Woman’s Suffrage Amendment, Amendment 19 until 1952.

Women obtained the right to vote only 100 years ago; a contested right unanimously upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court on February 27, 1922.

Newspaper woman, Mrs. Dolly P. Shepperson was “the first [Alexandria] woman to pay her poll taxes [$1.50] and vote.” Still Virginia waits for ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment.

“In 1619, the Virginia Company secured the King’s permission for the colony to establish a representative government,” 7th grade Virginia textbook author Francis Butler Simkins wrote in 1957. “In the same year the need for labor was partly solved by the coming of Negroes to Virginia. Also in 1619 many young women came to the colony to help establish homes.”

“By marriage, the husband and wife are one person in law,” British jurist Sir William Blackstone said in 1765, “that is, the very being or legal existence of the woman is suspended during the marriage,

or at least incorporated and consolidated into that of the husband: under whose wing, protection and cover, she performs everything.”

“I desire you would ‘Remember the Laidies’, and be more generous and favourable to them than your ancestors,” Abigail Adams wrote husband John in 1776. “Remember all Men would be tyrants if they could.” In 1776 Mrs. John Adams—a femme covert—was husband John Adams’ property.

“Females [are] the patronesses of liberty,” Revolutionary War General George Washington wrote in 1781. Liberty: “The condition of being free from restriction or control; freedom.” Martha Dandridge Custis Washington realized legal individuality only when widowed.

This month the Virginia State Legislature again considers ratification of the 1923, more accurately the 1972 Equal Rights Amendment. The Equal Rights Amendment, Section 1: “Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex.” Much has changed in 97 years but Alice Paul’s reference to; her definition “of sex” has not.

Suffragette Alice Paul first A BIT OF HISTORY > PAGE 17

Old Town Crier

and self-respect… there is evidence that it is making progress.”

Progress: “Movement, as toward a goal.”

“Those involved in what has come to be known as the Women’s Liberation Movement do not necessarily —Alice Paul agree on all the objectives, but… the word ‘equality’ is powerful,” The Washington Post A BIT OF HISTORY | FROM PAGE 16 reported in 1970.

“U.S. Senator Birch introduced the Equal Rights Bayh [D-Ind] advocates a Amendment in Seneca Falls, constitutional amendment that New York, in 1923—on the would guarantee equal rights to 75th anniversary of the 1848 all sexes,” The Post continued.

Woman’s Rights Convention.

“He ticks off a list of legal The amendment then read: inequities. These include a “Men and women shall have California statute that requires equal rights throughout the special approval of a woman United States and every place before she can go into business; subject to its jurisdiction.” Her state laws that forbid a woman text was simple, the mission to own property in her own nearly impossible. name, and three states that Paul’s Equal Rights don’t permit women to serve Amendment was reintroduced on juries. Bayh also notes that in Congress annually. Title VII a woman doing work identical of the Civil Rights Act passed to that of a man is often paid in 1964; Congress passed the less than the man.”

ERA on March 22, 1972, and “He [Bayh] sums up the Women’s Equality Day, as per responsibility of government the 19th Amendment became as being ‘to give all of our law in 1973. In 1977 twentycitizens, whether they are male three Virginia Unions, ranging or female, black, white, yellow from the Teamsters to the or brown, the opportunity to Bicycle Messengers, “pushed” realize their total talents as for State ratification of the they want to use them, to the ERA. Unsuccessfully! ultimate of their ability,’” The Last year the Equal Rights Post concluded.

Amendment failed to pass the Most state versions of the Virginia General Assembly’s Equal Rights Amendment, House of Delegates by one approximately 20, were adopted vote. The ERA has thus far amid the turmoil of the 1970s, failed because supporters have between 1971 and 1978. secured only 37 of the required Virginia’s state constitution, 38 state votes needed to revised effective July 1, 1971, ratify. The 2010 census claims includes such a declaration. women are 51.9% of Virginia’s Article 1, Section 11: “The population and fingers are right to be free from any crossed 2020 is Virginia’s governmental discrimination ratifying year. The so-called upon the basis of religious deadline was June 30, 1982. conviction, race, color, sex, or “Equality is an easily abused national origin shall not be word,” the Alexandria Gazette abridged, except that the mere penned in 1923. “Interpreted separation of the sexes shall not to mean an even chance for be considered discrimination.” health and happiness and To discriminate, as defined opportunity for self-support

by The American Heritage

“MEN AND WOMEN SHALL HAVE EQUAL RIGHTS THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES AND EVERY PLACE SUBJECT TO ITS JURISDICTION.”

dictionary: 1. “to make a clear distinction. 2. to make distinctions on the basis of preference or prejudice: accused of discriminating against women.” Democrat Eileen Hiller-Corn, the newly elected Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates is the first woman in 400 years to function as such. Black House Majority Leader Charniele Herring also.

“Capitol Square drew a step closer to being more reflective of Virginia with the groundbreaking on the first phase of the Virginia Women’s Monument,” The Richmond Times-Dispatch wrote in December 2016. The 2019 monument, Voices from the Garden provides “the setting for 12 bronze statues depicting significant women selected from 400 years of Virginia’s history…[It is] the first time that a monument of its type representing many different centuries of women’s contributions to our great commonwealth will ever have been put on Capitol grounds of any of the 50 state capitols.”

“To what extent does the woman’s struggle for equality continue?” I asked in June 2019. “On March 25, 2019, NASA cancelled its first AllFemale spacewalk. It did not have two spacesuits in the women’s size.” Thankfully, the all-women’s spacewalk was completed on October 18, 2019.

That said the World Economic Forum estimates that “at the current rate of change, the global gender gap will take 108 years to close.”

Of the 149 nation-states analyzed, the Forum’s 2018 Global Gender Gap Report ranked the United States 51st (72%), “down two spots since last year, with modest improvements in economic opportunity.” Women for example are only 22% of the Artificial Intelligence work force, a “gap three times larger than in other industry pools.”

The four pillars measured: economic opportunity, political empowerment, educational attainment, health and survival.

“When character begins to be admired, then the true

“...remember the laidies, and be more generous and favorable to them than your ancestors. Do not put such unlimited power into the hands of the Husbands.

Remember all Men would be tyrants if they could. If particular care and attention is not paid to the Laidies we are determined to foment a Rebellion, and will not hold ourselves bound by any Laws in which we have no —Abigail Adams voice, or Representation.”

Old Town Crier

palace of beauty is approached,” Harriet Stanton Blanch, suffragist Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s daughter said in 1880.

Bottom line: now is the time for Virginia to ratify the ERA, to become the 38th state to do so.

The matter of the 1982 deadline may prove problematic but remedies are allegedly in the works.

According to Thomas Jefferson women were excluded from politics “to prevent…ambiguities of issues.” Ambiguous, as defined

by The American Heritage dictionary: “open to more than one interpretation; doubtful or uncertain.” While the Smithsonian’s Molino Family Latino Gallery donors, with the help of the Latino Congressional Caucus lobby for a Smithsonian Latino-only facility on the national mall, the online National Women’s History Museum grudgingly prepares to open a “new physical home” at D.C.’s Union Station.

“We are tired of asking and waiting,” the NWHM’s 2019 fundraising letter explained.

“The National Women’s History Museum just couldn’t wait on Congress to do the right thing and give us the last site on the National Mall. We aren’t

willing to wait 100 years for them to come around like they finally did for the National Museum of African American History and Culture!…For 23 years they have kept us hanging.”

Women per se are not ambiguous. As for the ERA, let Virginia set the record straight; tell Thomas Jefferson how it really is. Here’s hoping the 2020 Virginia General Assembly acts quickly and the 1972 Equal Rights Amendment is in fact ratified.

Sarah Becker started writing for The Economist while a graduate student in England. Similar publications followed. She joined the Crier in 1996 while serving on the Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association Board.

Her interest in antiquities began as a World Bank hire, with Indonesia’s need to generate hard currency. Balinese history, i.e. tourism provided the means.

The New York Times describes Becker’s book, Off Your Duffs & Up the Assets, as “a blueprint for thousands of nonprofit managers.” A former museum director, SLAM’s saving grace Sarah received Alexandria’s Salute to Women Award in 2007.

FROM

$

1,749

1,499 *

$

CRIMSON CANYONS & MESAS NATIONAL PARKS TOUR

Las Vegas • Grand Canyon National Park • Bryce Canyon • Zion National Park • Arches National Park • and more 10 days, departs May - September 2020 Prepare to be awed as you experience the stunningly red rocks of these 6 iconic parks. Formed by the elements over countless centuries, these natural treasures are still grand enough to make our jaws drop. Experience several of the most popular national parks in America, traveling through deserts, forests, mountains, and to the very edge of one of the natural wonders of the world.

TM

Promo code N7017

1-888-603-9564

*Prices are per person based on double occupancy plus $199 taxes & fees. Single supplement and seasonal surcharges may apply.

Add-on airfare available. Offers apply to new bookings only, made by 3/31/20. Other terms and conditions may apply. Ask your Travel Consultant for details.

January 2020 | 17

POINTS ON PETS

STEPH SELICE

Starting the New Year Right for Your Pets of what pets need us to provide for them continually. (This is also a good checklist for anyone who has not had a

you had to leave immediately.

Preparing for who would care for your beloved critters if you couldn’t is also essential. This means having updated contact information and vet records for designated caretakers, family members, and veterinarians as well as a current will, so that your humans know what you would want them to do for your pets.

Making the Most of Your Time Together

W

e all greet every January with high hopes and the best of intentions, and many of us resolve to ensure this new year will be the best one ever. To rephrase Mark Twain’s famous quote, instead of paving hell with annual good resolutions to ourselves in 2020, how about focusing on what we can do for our pets? We’re much more likely to keep our promises to our beloved animals!

Taking Even Better Care of Your Pet This could be the year you help your cat lose weight or get your dog out to the puppy park more often. A veterinarian we asked ran through the checklist

pet but needs to be reminded of the daily responsibilities that come with the fun.) This includes spaying or neutering for longer, healthier lives—not only cats and dogs, but also rabbits, ferrets, and chinchillas, among other small mammals.

The vet reminded us about appropriate food and treats, regular exercise, routine vet visits and vaccinations, grooming (including washing, hair or fur maintenance, nail trims, and ear cleaning), and updated medications and vitamins as needed. She also mentioned taking pet photos regularly, getting collars and name/vaccination tags, and microchipping or otherwise IDing your pets as other ways to protect them in case they are lost or taken.

As part of an annual home safety check, security experts recommend planning how you would move your pets out of your home in case of an emergency and how you would travel with them if

ADOPTION CALENDAR FOR DETAILS AND MORE INFO www.kingstreetcats.org emai: contact@kingstreetcats.org

Are you or someone you know free during weekday mornings? King Street Cats is looking for weekday morning caregivers and vet taxis to transport our cats to the vet. Please email: contact@kingstreetcats.org for details.

King Street Cats is looking for foster homes! You provide the spare room and TLC and we can provide food, litter and all vetting. Please email: contact@kingstreetcats.org for details.

18 | January 2020

Another vet we spoke with mentioned that for busy people in Washington, DC, with demanding schedules, taking the time to just be with your pet can sometimes prove a challenge. She recommended just putting down the phone (or turning it off) and trying not to work or multitask while enjoying your pet’s company.

To socialize with your pet and other humans and their critters, she mentioned using social media and other networking to find like-minded people who also love pets like yours for meetups—not just for petsitting or dogwalking, but just for fun.

Adopting a New Pet in the New Year Maybe this will be the year you adopt a new pet. Animal rescuers agree that deciding with your family on what kinds of animals would be happiest with you all is the first thing to do before adopting. Once you’ve talked about this, they recommend meeting lots of potential pets at rescues and shelters (including pet stores that work only with them and not with breeders), and

KING STREET CATS 25 Dove Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 Every Saturday and Sunday from 1.30pm-4.30pm PETVALU Bradlee Shopping Center, 3652 King St, Alexandria, VA 22302 Every Sat/Sun from 1pm-4pm

talking with people who have similar animals as well as with adoption counselors. You can follow up by visiting animals you’re interested in at least a couple of times before deciding which pet your family wants to adopt.

Adopting a shelter animal, not buying from a breeder, is what pet people advise. And you’ll help reduce the shelter population without promoting the sale of overbred and often mistreated breeding animals.

If you and your family are interested in a particular breed, many breed-specific rescues and sanctuaries have knowledgeable, devoted volunteers and offer excellent adoption alternatives. These organizations are often highly active on social media and networked not only locally but regionally or even nationally.

Fostering a Pet Who Needs a Home Helping all their animals find loving homes is a neverending task for rescues and shelters. One way that helps pets become socialized and makes them even better prospects for adoption is through foster care with loving people and their pets.

Rescues are always looking for loving foster families for their animals. You may not have the circumstances to adopt another pet right now, but you can still make the most of the love you have to give to another animal.

Talk with your family about fostering through an animal rescue until your foster friend finds a forever home.

Volunteering for Animals If this is the year you want to get involved with animal rescue, there are dozens of groups in metro DC that are just waiting for your help.

From adoption counseling and fostering to shelter work, vet shuttles, fundraising, social media, public relations events, and marketing, every animal rescue group needs to care for many animals while raising money and public awareness.

If you’re interested in working with wildlife, Virginia offers sanctuaries and rescues that cater specifically to their care.

Some organizations will also help train your pet to become an animal ambassador by visiting hospitals, speech and hearing centers, senior residences, and schools.

Your kids can get involved, too. Many local rescues and shelters have programs for children and their families.

Kids can help in other ways that are highly effective. This year, instead of expecting friends and family to bring the newest gizmos as gifts to a birthday party or a graduation, why not suggest that your kids ask for toys, food, or supplies for shelter animals? You and your kids would be helping someone’s future pet have the best year ever.

About the Author: Steph volunteered with King Street Cats in Alexandria for 7 years and now lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and their two kitties Dorian and Callie, who were adopted from city neighborhoods in Virginia and Delaware.

PETCO UNLEASHED 1101 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202 Every first Sat & third Sat from 1pm-4pm PETCO UNLEASHED 1855 Wisconsin Avenue, Washington, DC 20007 Every fourth Sat/Sun from 12pm-3pm THE DOG PARK 705 King Street, Alexandria, VA22314 Every second Saturday from 1pm-4pm

Old Town Crier

SELECTED ANIMAL SHELTERS AND RESCUES IN VIRGINIA The dozens of reputable animal shelters, sanctuaries, and therapy animal programs in Virginia and regionally include these: Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (Adopts to residents within 25 miles of the shelter) 4101 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 22304 703-838-4774 http://alexandriaanimals.org/ Animal Welfare League of Arlington 2650 S Arlington Mill Drive Arlington, VA 22206 (703) 931-9241 mail@awla.org

http://www.awla.org Fairfax County Animal Shelter 4500 West Ox Road Fairfax, VA 22030 703-830-1100 animalshelter@fairfaxcounty.gov https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ animalshelter/

Operation Paws for Homes, Inc. (Dog rescue for VA, MD, DC, and south central PA) P.O. Box 90813 Alexandria, VA 22309 703-344-7320 operationpawsforhomes@gmail.com https://ophrescue.org/

Friends of Rabbits and House Rabbit Sanctuary (Adopts to residents of metro DC) P.O. Box 1112 Alexandria, VA 22313 703-627-7892 http://www.friendsofrabbits.org/

Pet Partners® (Nationwide network of therapyanimal programs, including Germantown, MD) Bellevue, WA 98005 425-679-5500, M–F https://petpartners.org/volunteer/ volunteer-with-pet-partners/

King Street Cats (Adopts to residents of metro DC) 25 S. Dove Street Alexandria, VA 22314 703-231-7199 contact@kingstreetcats.org https://www.kingstreetcats.org/

Rikki’s Refuge Animal Sanctuary (1300 animals and 22 species on 450 acres) Kerry Hilliard, Director P.O. Box 1357 Orange, VA 22960 540-854-0870

www.rikkisrefuge.org tours@rikkisrefuge.org; events@ rikkisrefuge.org Wildlife Rescue League of Northern Virginia P.O. Box 704 Falls Church, VA 22040

Helpline: 703-440-0800, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. 7 days a week To volunteer: volcoord@ wildliferescueleague.org All other questions: wrl@ wildliferescueleague.org www.wildliferescueleague.org

Start Out the New Year

By Adopting a Furry Friend!

Cremation of Horses & Companion Animals (571) 835-0540 Chantilly, VA IMPetServices.com

PETS

OF THE

MONTH 4101 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 703-746-4774 alexandriaanimals.org Mon-Fri, 1-8 pm Closed Wed Sat & Sun, 12-5 pm

Old Town Crier

MONROE

Senior, Neutered Male, Brown Tabby with White Domestic Short Hair Hello, my name is Monroe. Some of my friends say I’m a very large cat, but I still consider myself lapsized. Some of my friends also say that I am the most handsome cat they’ve ever met, but I suppose that subjective. However handsome or large you consider me to be, I’ll consider you my friend if you take the time to get to know me. I’m not a kitten who will rush over to you immediately but a reserved gentlemow who will ask you how your day was and be a constant companion by your side. So what do you say? Am I the feline for you? alexandriaanimals.org/animalprofile/?id=39666 alexandriaanimals.org/adoptioninformation/

PHOENIX

Meet former King Street Cats Alumnus

Peppercorn She now resides in the office of The Old Town Crier and it has been rumored that she is quite helpful with the paperwork.

PEPPER

QUEEN

Adult, Neutered Male, Black and Tan Rottweiler

Senior, Spayed Female, Black Domestic Short Hair

Adult, Spayed Female, Brown Australian Shepherd Mix

Phoenix is the perfect companion

Petite Pepper promises pretty pouts and panther pounces. (Say that five times fast!) Our mature lady is looking for a soothing environment that allows her to relax and relish her family’s love. She is doing well on daily medication and knows a catsavvy home can help her maintain this regimen. Peter Piper might pick a peck of pickled peppers, but this pleasant Pepper is the only pet you need to pick! alexandriaanimals.org/animalprofile/?id=40516

Hi, everybody, meet Queen!

Queen’s a pretty girl and gets a lot of compliments on her unique tail.

She enjoys sniffing and loves to sing like a good hound. She’s also a robust and energetic young dog who would love a long walk or a romp in a yard. She settles down once she gets through her initial excitement, but would benefit from some instruction on loose leash walking. Once she settles down, she loves a good ear rub and is attentive and focused. Queen would prefer to be the true Queen of her castle and would like to be the only dog or kid in the home. Queen already has a beautiful sit and will work for hot dogs! Stop by the shelter and meet Queen today! alexandriaanimals.org/animalprofile/?id=38386 alexandriaanimals.org/adoptioninformation/

and the sweetest boy! He is up to play when you want to play, but knows when it’s time to relax and is perfectly happy laying by your side during movie night. He understands sit, and will do just about anything you ask of him for a treat! There is no doubt that this guy can learn some new tricks. alexandriaanimals.org/animalprofile/?id=40067

January 2020 | 19

CARIBBEAN CONNECTION LANI GERING W/CARIBBEAN JOURNAL STAFF

Soggy Dollar Bar, Jost Van Dyke, BVI

The 20 Best Caribbean Beach Bars to Visit in 2020!

Lime Out, St John, USVI A beach bar has to be close to the water. But the USVI’s newest bar does it one better — it’s actually in the water.

This floating bar off the coast of St John is equal parts beach bar and taco shack, and it’s quickly become a big hit with locals, travelers and passing boats.

I

signed up for the Caribbean Journal newsletter quite some time ago since we try to spend as much time as we can on our favorite islands of St. John and Jost Van Dyke but lately the treks have been far and few between. When I got the info about the top 20 beach bars to visit in 2020 and saw our very favorite place, the Soggy Dollar and the new kid on the block (or the water in this case) the Lime Out featured, I had to pass on the info to you all. With the help of the staff at the Journal we give you the following: There’s a very effective way to test the quality of a Caribbean beach bar - whether you can spend the entire day there.

Because best Caribbean beach bars are more than bars — they’re destinations, the sorts of places where you can arrive early in the day and leave 20 | January 2020

your watch behind.

They’re places that can turn a simple stretch of sand into a pilgrimage spot.

And that’s true of the bars on our list of the best Caribbean beach bars for 2020, a diverse collection of beach hotspots, castaway-style shacks and oldschool beach bars from across the Caribbean region.

In other words, this is one very good way to plan your Caribbean travel for next year.

So what are you waiting for?

Le Petibonum, Martinique Martinique’s legendary beach bar just keeps getting better. The Le Carbet bar that turned northwest Martinique into one of the region’s coolest beach destinations continues to innovate, from a standalone rum bar to a full-fledged pizzeria and even a rum shop.

This is the essence of why we come to the Caribbean, a place to enjoy Le Carbet’s exotic beauty, drink outstanding rum and cocktails and eat worldclass food. It’s still the standard for great beach bars in the Caribbean.

Roxxy Beach, St Maarten Few beach bars have burst on the scene in the Caribbean quite like Roxxy, which opened earlier this year on Simpson Bay in St Maarten and immediately established itself as one of the top beach destinations in the Caribbean.

It’s hip, it’s chic, the food is exceptional and the cocktails are hard to match.

SunShine Shack, Anguilla It’s hard to think of a more beautiful beach anywhere

in the Caribbean than Rendezvous Bay, and the famous Garvey has cultivated the beach’s hotspot, a tiny beach shack with cocktails and fresh barbecue. Even on a long stretch of beach in a popular destination, you’ll feel like you’re on your own little private island.

Jacqui O’s Love Beach, Antigua The southern coast of Antigua is the destination’s beach bar epicenter, with a row of great bars to choose from, all with striking views of nearby Montserrat. But our favorite is the lovely Jacqui O’s, an elegant beach bar and club with a chill soundtrack and wonderful service. It’s also home to one of the best burgers in Antigua.

Shellona, St Barth This bar gets its name from its setting on Shell Beach, the most exotic coastline on the island. And while St Barth didn’t invent the beach day, you’d be forgiven if you thought so after a trip to Shellona, where a buzzy but relaxed atmosphere marries with superb food by Chef Yiannis Kioroglou. The best part? It’s just a short stroll from downtown Gustavia.

Da Pink Chicken, Cat Island, Bahamas Cat Island is one of the great

White Bay is very much a pilgrimage spot for travelers from around the world, and that’s largely due to the place affectionately called “Soggy,” where the painkillers abound, the sand is impossibly white and the days never seem to end. A true bucket-list beach bar and a muststop for any Caribbean aficionado.

undiscovered destinations in the wider Caribbean, a brilliantly beautiful island with stunning beaches and unmatched tranquility. And it’s home to Da Pink Chicken, a tiny, old-school blue beach bar that is all about Kalik-filled afternoons where the only interruption is a break to go bone fishing in the flats around the bar. There’s nothing like it.

Cow Wreck Beach Bar, Anegada, BVI Anegada is the frontier of the British Virgin Islands, the most remote stop in the archipelago, but it is always worth the journey, in large part thanks to a surfeit of remarkable beaches, led

by Cow Wreck and it’s eponymous beach bar, where the cocktails flow and you can even stay the night if you like.

Karibuni, St Martin Yes, Pinel Island is back, and the legendary Karibuni is better than ever. Pinel, the little island off the coast of Cul-de-Sac on the French side, has long been a Caribbean beach bar capital thanks to its Ibiza-meets-theCaribbean vibe, and that’s still very much the case. This is the spot for endless beach days, with delicious cocktails, freshcaught fish and lobster and a castaway-chic ambience.

Club Tropicana, Bonaire This outpost at the terrific Delfins Beach Resort in Bonaire doesn’t just have a beautiful perch of Bonaire blue CARIBBEAN CONNECTION > PAGE 21

Old Town Crier

CARIBBEAN CONNECTION FROM PAGE 20

coastline, it’s got the Michelinstarred culinary team behind it. The beach bar is curated by the resort’s Brass Boer restaurant, the brainchild of husband-and-wife team Jonnie and Therese Boer, famous for their De Librije restaurant in Holland.

Kontiki Beach, St Martin Orient Beach has long been one of the Caribbean’s biggest party spots, and since the storm it’s made an admirable comeback, led by the beloved Kontiki. Kontiki 2.0 has retained its brand of Caribbean cool, with its mix of Asianfusion food, a deep house soundtrack and, well, the sheer beauty of Orient Bay.

Papagayo Beach Club, Curacao Curacao has one of the hottest beach scenes in the Caribbean, but somehow it still manages to stay under the radar in this regard. But if you make the journey, the sleek, gorgeous Papagayo is the top spot, a modern, sophisticated, nergetic beach club that’s

the essence of what makes Curacao such a cool place to visit.

SALT Plage, St Kitts This ultra-chic bar fashioned out of an old salt warehouse on Whitehouse Bay in St Kitts is a bit unique for bars on this list in that it opens at 4PM, but that’s in large part because it’s home to the island’s most spectacular sunsets, with an outstanding cocktail and high-end spirit selection and terrific food.

Nikki Beach, Barbados The brand famous around the world for its brand of ultra-hip beach clubs has come to Barbados, with a privileged perch at the Port Ferdinand luxury resort. All of the classic Nikki Beach ingredients are here: the design, the music (yes, there’s an in-house saxophonist) and a menu featuring food from all of Nikki Beach’s global locations.

The Naked Fisherman, Saint Lucia The Cap Maison luxury resort is one of Saint Lucia’s best-kept secrets, a boutique

hotel set at the very northern tip of the island. And if you make the journey down the cliffs to the beach, you’ll find another closely-guarded secret: the Naked Fishermen, a beach bar seemingly ripped straight out of a movie, with sweeping views (some days, even to Martinique) and a menu of ultra-fresh, authentic Saint Lucian food, with an emphasis on seafood. Don’t miss the lobster lunches.

Coccoloba Bar and Grill, Grand Cayman You can’t talk about anything having to do with Caribbean beaches without including Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach. And while the beach has no shortage of eateries and bars, our favorite is the tucked-away Coccoloba at the Kimpton Seafire resort, a rustic-chic bar with a Mexican street food menu and a surprisingly good list of Caribbean rums.

Pearl Beach, St Barth St Jean beach is in many ways where tourism in St Barth began, and this stretch of white sand beach directly adjacent to the island’s airport

has always occupied a special place in the jet-set psyche. And the recently-rebranded Pearl Beach (formerly La Plage) is true to that history, with a lowkey, fun, playful atmosphere and a menu of French Caribbean and Mediterranean cuisine. By night, it turns into one of St Barth’s most delectable dinner spots.

23 North Beach Club, Great Exuma, Bahamas Beaches don’t tend to get prettier than the sugar-white sands of Emerald Bay in Great Exuma, so it was always a

shame there was never a beach bar here to match it. Now there is. The Grand Isle resort recently launched 23 North, a full-fledged beach destination anchored by a large infinity pool.

Please check out the Caribbean Journal for all things related to the Caribbean. Be sure to sign up for their newsletter to keep up on all of the news and information about the many destinations in this beautiful part of our earth. www.

Caribjournal.com.

Escape to paradise Hillcrest Guest House is located within a residential area, rising two stories above Cruz Bay, on the crest of a hill and minutes from the beach and the US National Park, Virgin Islands.

Six suites available, $185-$235/day Call 340-776-6774 or 340-998-8388 hillcreststjohn.com

HH HILLCREST GUEST HOUSE

CLIFFHANGER k

Ann Street Gardens

y

ey west getawa

SEE OUR AY HOMEAW 5 AT #28629 LISTING AY.COM HOMEAW

As featured on HGTV and winner of “Bang For Your Buck” in St. Thomas. This recently renovated villa resides on the edge of a cliff 200 feet above the Atlantic Ocean crashing onto the rocks below. The best location on the island—a private, secure, gated community of luxury villas—the villa offers spectacular views of the Atlantic and various islands including St. John, Jost Van Dyke and Tortola. The main house has 3 bedrooms with a detached cottage with its’ own queen size bed. Large deck, pool and spa.

Phone 703 628-9005 • Fax 703 765-5900

Key West Getaway One Block from Sloppy Joe’s Contact: historichideaways.com • 1-800-654-5131 Old Town Crier

January 2020 | 21

FROM THE BAY …

MOLLY WINANS

From the Publisher: It is time for our annual Frost Bite Sailing column. Molly penned this column 10 years ago and it has held up for the entire decade.

A

who share your passion.

Do things you love, and you will make friends

“I frostbite because the fleet is so gung-ho about it,” says Dorian Haldeman, Severn SA’s former Laser fleet captain and regular competitor. Charlie Pugh says, “We love to sail.

We love to race. I think most of us agree that a day racing Lasers on the water will beat a day in the office no matter how bad the weather gets.” “The camaraderie is amazing,” says Ashley Love. “Of course, there is a lot of camaraderie,” adds Bob Tan. Funny how many times these one-man dinghy racers mention camaraderie. What drives these sailors from a racing perspective are the power and learning experience of relying on their own skills and wits to steer, trim, and navigate their own boats effectively around a race course. That the friends will be there on the docks and race course is the underlying force that propels them to the sailing club in the cold.

ccording to the NOAA website’s Thomas Point Light Station, the air temperature is 41 degrees Fahrenheit. The Bay, 42.6 degrees. It’s blowing 12 knots out of the northwest and gusting up to 14 knots.

The sky is clear and expected to remain so. Would you like to go sailing right now on a one-man, 14-foot sailboat?

Two dozen Laser sailors from Annapolis say “yes.”

The most obvious first two questions would be, “Why?” and, “Are you crazy?” We tend to ask those questions of anyone at the extremes of a sport. This is not professional sailing here. We’re talking about recreational, Sunday afternoon sailing. Whether we—meaning the non-dinghyfrostbite-racing majority—are racing sailors or cruisers, who prefer “reasonable” weather, we shouldn’t just dismiss these hardcore frostbite sailors as crazy. They have something to teach us.

There have been best-selling books on how to be happy; here’s the free, one-page cliff notes version for sailors.

22 | January 2020

What Cool People Do Do something that takes you out of your comfort zone, and you may be surprised by how much fun it is.

Gavin O’Hare says, “We feel tougher than the average bear when we suit up and brave the elements—classic adrenaline junkie culture.” As a firstyear frostbiter, Love agrees, “Everyone’s out there toughing it, and I love being a part of the stories that get told when everyone’s sharing their ‘This day was so cold’ stories. Weather shouldn’t get in the way of doing something you love.”

An on-and-off frostbite racer for 20 years, Peter Young admits that not only does he not like sailing in the cold, but that he’s also not an “adept” Laser sailor. He does it because he doesn’t have the luxury to travel to southern winter regattas as many of his competitors do, yet he wants to stay on his game and be competitive come summer championship season. He relates his most memorable

frostbite racing experience: “One afternoon three years ago, it was snowing quite hard on the water. The snowflakes were huge, visibility was down to about 100 feet at times, and you had to clear three or four inches of snow off the deck after every race. I was smiling the whole time.”

Wear what frostbite racers wear when it’s freezing, and you will be a warm, happy sailor in spring.

Of course, a Gortex dry suit would be sweltering in 50 or 60 degrees and would limit maneuverability, but the other layers frostbite dinghy racers wear bode well in many sailing situations. Gortex socks and strap-on hats. A balaclava, which is a close-fitting hood covering the head, face, and neck, made out of light, hightech fabric. Wicking base layers and fleece mid-layers.

Neoprene hiking pants/ shorts, socks, or dinghy boots.

(Haldeman recommends

wearing dinghy boots a size larger than your shoe size so as not to cut off circulation while wearing thick socks.)

Most of the sailors interviewed prefer ski gloves, thermal garden gloves (found at True Value Hardware for less than $10), or Altas Lobster Gloves (worn by lobstermen) to sailing gloves. The recycling award goes to O’Hare, who dons wool socks, covered with plastic grocery bags inside neoprene booties.

Don’t be afraid to just be your cool self.

Hal Whitacre says, “I love winter sailing. The harbor is free of boats, and it feels so cool to be out sailing when most folks are in watching football. The thought of capsizing keeps me paying attention. Almost sliding off the ice-covered deck keeps you on your toes, too. I did that about three times last week, laughing the whole time! ...I sailed a few times in Chicago in their Laser frostbite series.

You think it’s cold here...”

This article first appeared in the February 2010 issue of SpinSheet Magazine. Winans is the editor of the popular SpinSheet and power boat magazine Prop Talk based in Eastport, Maryland.

Old Town Crier

Broomes Isand ose & Grill SeafoodClBar d fo 3939 Oyster House rRoad the

Broomes Island, MD Sea son 410-586-1888 Open Thurs thru Sun 11:30 am - 9 pm

WISHING YOU ALL A VERY PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR! DEEP WATER AND COVERED SLIPS AVAILABLE 14485 Dowell Road Solomons, MD 20629 410.326.4251 calvertmarina.com

WE SHIP OUR AWARD WINNING CRABCAKES ANYWHERE IN THE USA! VOTED BEST CRAB CAKES IN SOUTHERN MARYLAND 2012 Maryland Life

Clarke's Landing

24580 Clarke's Landing Ln. Hollywood, MD 301-373-3986 Open Wed-Sun

HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS

STONEYSSEAFOODHOUSE.COM

LIVE ACOUSTIC MUSIC • CRAB CAKE SHIPPING DOG FRIENDLY OUTDOOR PATIO • HALF PRICE WINE WEDNESDAY OUTDOOR DECK SEATING • TAKE OUT & CATERING • TRANSIENT SLIPS

STONEY’S KINGFISHERS SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL 14442 Solomons Island Road Solomons, Maryland 20688 SolomonsKingfisher@gmail.com

410.394.0236 EVERY WEDNESDAY HALF PRICE WINE

Take a

Winter Break

in Southen Maryland!

OPEN

ALL YEAR ROUND!

TO THE BLUE RIDGE

JULIE REARDON

…I

t’s about restricting your rights to own pets, livestock, farms, ranches and more.

While I normally avoid politics in my Blue Ridge reports, this is not a Democrat vs.

Republican issue. It’s one that affects nearly all of us—if we own and love animals. As the last decade drew to a close, greyhound racing is all but dead thanks to being shut down by animal rights activists.

Will horse racing be next? It’s on the agenda for this decade.

As the new decade dawns, radical animal rights activist groups under the guise of saving us from animal cruelty have gone so mainstream that most of us barely notice the steady erosion of our rights to own animals, farm, ranch, fish, hunt, eat meat or wear leather and wool. Remember the late George H.W. Bush’s service dog Sully, the happy yellow Lab now helping gravely ill patients?

He’s considered exploited.

Working animals from service dogs to riding horses are described as enslaved even though they’re happiest doing their jobs. Far too many animal lovers still donate to these groups mistakenly thinking they’re helping animals in need. Hundreds of millions send in $19, $50 or more to fund what is, in essence, a tax free lobbying effort to make it harder or impossible to own pets and livestock or eat meat and wear leather.

PETA, HSUS and the ASPCA, (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, The Humane Society of the U.S., and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) each spend less than two percent of their budget on actual animal welfare programs. They operate no shelters, fund no low cost spay/ neuter programs and give nothing to the local shelters that actually do feed and house the unwanted animal surplus. Even the ASPCA, which formerly operated a single shelter in New York, no longer funds any shelters, although by maintaining the SPCA in their name, they want you to think they do so you’ll keep the donations flowing.

PETA does have an intake facility at their Norfolk, Va. Headquarters, but it is solely to 24 | January 2020

Animal Rights is NOT About Ending Animal Cruelty…

Photo by Becki Mills

dispatch companion animals— they rarely rehome and in fact euthanize 98 percent of all animals taken in. What they do, is bank money offshore, pay handsome salaries to their executives and lobby for restrictive laws at the local, state and federal level, all taxfree.

At the end of last year, these groups scored a major coup when the so-called PACT Act was signed into law by President Trump just before Thanksgiving. The PACT Act: Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act, makes animal cruelty and specifically filming, photographing or distributing images of animals being tortured a federal crime so it’s a good thing, right? The new law looks

innocuous on first reading; we all want to end cruelty and torture. But the devil is in the details, intentionally left vague and open to future interpretation--pure animal rights manipulation at its deceitful best. While animal abuse and torture should never be condoned, cruelty, including torture, is already illegal in all 50 states with laws on the books to enforce. This new act lays a foundation and building blocks for the ultimate aim of animal rights activists: to criminalize anyone who raises, breeds and works with animals and to end raising animals for meat, as well as hunting and fishing. Although ostensibly excluding “generally accepted” livestock and veterinary handling procedures, generally

accepted is not defined. And since it is an act, not a bill, it will be much easier to amend and change the existing definitions. Right now, most vegans are happy with their own choices but a growing number think that no one should eat meat, fish or dairy products—and the PACT Act gives them a back door for a government mandate to end raising animals for food.

This was all by design, as despite the foothold the major animal rights organizations have made, the American public is not ready to accept a meatless, pet-less society - the stated goal of these groups. And these powerful, well-funded lobbying groups know there is work to do before enough of the general public shares their

goal. So a “shock value” animal cruelty element (torturing animals for making videos) had to be added to ensure widespread support. The act, on its surface, seems innocent enough but imagine when today’s children, indoctrinated their entire young lives by HSUS and PETA to embrace radical animal rights begin to populate the entry level and political positions inside the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Department of Interior and the Environmental Protection Agency. Those involved in producing meat products for food could be put out of business overnight.

What a shame that America’s children and vulnerable adults have no such protection. Alas, there is no federal law like this for abused humans. But that’s of no consequence to animal rights activists. They believe a cockroach or a wharf rat has the same rights as a human child, and want to end all animal ownership and all meat eating, because they believe that animals’ rights should be equal to or greater than human rights. The PACT Act’s vague definitions and terms are wide open to interpretation by bureaucratic regulators who will be responsible for enforcement. While the act as written exempts certain accepted farming and medical procedures, it does not say what those are nor what “accepted” means—accepted by who? Criminal acts are described as burning, crushing and/or stabbing, but regular practices such as branding cattle, using squeeze chutes to safely doctor livestock, tattoos and ear tags for ID, or even giving vaccinations could be construed as acts of cruelty.

At a time in our country when law enforcement and animal control officers are naively accepting third-party enforcement training by radical animal rights groups, the PACT Act lays the groundwork for their anti-animal philosophy to become law. As animal cruelty and torture is already illegal, in all 50 states you have to question the true intentions of the animal rights organizations that sold the public on this bill, that sets a dangerous precedent for all Americans.

BLUE RIDGE > PAGE 25

Old Town Crier

Photo by Julie Reardon

BLUE RIDGE | FROM PAGE 24

Most worrisome about the PACT act is the unconstitutional erosion of rights, specifically asset forfeiture. Now, the FBI and other federal agencies can arrest and prosecute those suspected of torturing or killing animals, regardless of whether a video was involved.

No due process here, it only takes suspicion. Suspected— not charged or indicted--can get your assets seized under the preponderance of evidence clause that, oh by the way, can be invoked because your dog dropped a deuce on your neighbor’s lawn and he’s got an axe to grind so he anonymously reports you as an abuser and you’re now a suspect for a federal crime.

Lest you think the above is an exaggeration, animal rights groups are already busy amassing their foot soldiers.

The ink of the President’s signature was barely dry on the act before two of the more extreme groups formed and staffed the National Veterinary Council, with animal rights advocates who are licensed (but not necessarily practicing) veterinarians poised to take leadership positions

in determining acceptable veterinary practices pursuant to the act. “The Animal Wellness Foundation (AWF) and Animal Wellness Action (AWA) have announced the formation of their National Veterinary Council, with members bringing collective medical and advocacy experience for companion animals, farm animals, horses and wildlife” reads the news brief. The sly use of the term animal wellness instead of animal rights and advocacy instead of radical agenda is pure theater, but make no mistake, both the AWF and AWA think any use of animals for human companionship or sport is akin to slavery and no animal should be harvested for meat, fur or feathers. The announcement also states that “the members of the Council will extend the reach of the organization’s programs and priorities and more meaningfully place veterinarians at the forefront of the animal protection movement.” Note the subtle change in their language: Animal rights is now being called animal protection since most people are not ready to give up their pets and become vegans. Without even knowing who your accuser is and no due

•

process, this act allows the feds to take everything you own without even a formal charge or chance to defend yourself.

WHAT YOU CAN DO: Do not give money to these organizations. Support your local shelter and make donations there where your money will actually help homeless and unwanted pets.

Don’t jump on the bandwagon for new laws ostensibly to prevent cruelty to animals; cruelty, both intentional and neglectful, is already a crime. Animal cruelty or even suspicion of it, makes for sensational headlines and many clicks in social media and in the news (and in all the donation requests). These crimes are already covered under the Animal Welfare Act and the new laws merely add burdensome and expensive regulations that make it harder on those that already take good care of their animals.

Which is, after all, the point— if these animal rights groups cannot take your animals by force, they’ll tax and regulate them out of reach. Good educational resources online include HumaneWatch.org; the National Animal Interest Alliance and the Cavalry Group.

29 Main On the River – Sperryville

•

A quaint cottage on the Thornton River in the Heart of the Village of Sperryville.

Spacious one bedroom/one bath suite Kitchenette Private deck overlooking the River Outdoor shower Popular for Hikers and Foodies, looking for a great getaway.

VRBO#1001234 • AirBnB #18582009

• • • • • •

Large put cozy, suite above Little Washington Spa 1 Bedroom/1 Bath Living room with pull out sofa Kitchenette Great Location in the center of town VRBO#735456 • AirBnB #7131304

• • • • •

The Loft – Little Washington

More Info Contact- Samantha.rpkgetaways@gmail.com

Old Town Crier

January 2020 | 25

ROAD TRIP

february

BOB TAGERT

9 1 0 2 Our entures v d A Road

A

s is our custom for our January road trip we do a recap of our adventures in 2019. Obviously I can’t write about January 2019 because that was a recap of 2018, so we will start with February:

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

march l i r p a

The drive is only about 2 1/2 hours and takes you through some beautiful low lying country. As you cross the Chesapeake Bay over the iconic Bay Bridge, you will get a birds eye view of this huge body of water and the massive freighters that ply its waters year round heading for the Baltimore shipyards.

Although it isn’t summer, the Boardwalk Plaza and Rehoboth Beach have a lot to offer in the winter months. If you are lucky, the beach will get a push of warm air to create a respite from the cold. If there is no wind, a walk on the beach is very pleasant and certainly uncrowded.

Although some stores close for the winter, there are many places still open including some very nice restaurants. Rehoboth is a year round town so business is usually open.

Our favorite place to stay is the Boardwalk Plaza which is in the heart of town and right on the beach. Their indoor grotto hot tub (pool) help take the chill away and the restaurant is excellent. The grotto is open 24/7 and no one under 18 after 8 pm.

Getting Your Irish On Last MARCH we did a road trip of local Irish Pubs and restaurants “From the Bay to the Blue Ridge”. The two major Irish destinations in Old Town are Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub and Daniel O’Connell’s Restaurant & Bar. Tom and Melinda Mooney opened Murphy’s with a few friends and family with a passion for their Irish heritage and the desire to bring traditional Irish fare and entertainment to this community at affordable prices. What used to be Bullfeathers in the roaring 80’s and 90’s was turned into O’Connell’s Restaurant and Bar 15 years ago. The owners enlarged the former restaurant and brought in historical antiques and furnishings from abbeys and churches in Ireland as well as master carpenters, master stone masons, 2 antique tillers and 2 specialist painters.

The place is absolutely stunning. We took a drive to the Bay and Annapolis to visit Galway Bay Irish Restaurant & Pub, Fado Irish Pub, Castlebay Irish Pub and Killarney House in Davidsonville.

26 | January 2020

We concluded with a trip to the Blue Ridge and Nana’s Irish Pub in Middletown, Virginia in the Shenandoah Valley.

Historic Middletown, Virginia For the APRIL road trip we headed west. In the past we have taken road trips out west and then headed down I-81 or Route 11 to points south. This time we decided to head north to the little burg of Middletown. Choosing Middletown as our destination was because of our March road trip ...”Getting Your Irish On - From the Bay to the Blue Ridge.” You will remember that our pub of choice for the Blue Ridge was Nana’s Pub located in the heart of Middletown. We included Nana’s at the request of our layout and design guru, Lauren. Lauren told us it was a social pub that actually takes her back to Ireland every time she stops in. It is a great place and as we discovered, this traditional Pub draws folks from Winchester, VA to Front Royal and beyond.

Middletown is one in a series of small towns that are interspersed up and down Route 11 from Winchester to Harrisonburg. Each of these towns have their own charm and Middletown is no exception. Middletown is located in southern Frederick County. It is in the Shenandoah Valley region and is 5 miles southwest of Stephens City, 13 miles southwest of Winchester and 5 miles north east of Strasburg. The main historic attraction near Middletown is Belle Grove Plantation located about a mile south of town.

Middletown was also the site of numerous military operations in the American Civil War including the Battle of Cedar Creek, fought near Belle Grove Plantation. You can catch the 156th anniversary reenactment October 17, 2020.

Celebrating Memorial Day In MAY of last year we stayed home for our road trip in honor of Memorial Day and visited the war memorials and military memorials in our Nation’s Capital. We began our journey

may

Old Town Crier

on the National Mall adjacent to Constitution Gardens. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a 2-acre national memorial that pays tribute to the brave members of the United States Armed Forces who fought in the Vietnam War and were killed or missing in action (MIA). The memorial consists of three separate parts: The Three Soldiers statue, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall...or simply...” The Wall”. At the other end of the reflecting pool you will find the World War II Memorial, which honors the 16 million who served in the armed forces of the United States, the more than 400,000 who died, and all who supported the war effort from home. Symbolic of the defining event of the 20th century, the memorial is a monument to the spirit, sacrifice, and commitment of the American people.

Other memorials to visit are the Korean War Veterans Memorial, The Navy Memorial and Naval Heritage Center, The Navy-Merchant Marine Memorial, The United States Air Force Memorial, and the Marine Corps War Memorial, or the Iwo Jima Statue in Arlington, Virginia.

My Favorite Summertime Spot In JUNE of last year we took a drive to Solomons, Maryland. There is good reason to visit Solomons Island in June. Warm weather abounds and Solomons is where the Patuxent River meets the Chesapeake Bay. My sailboat is in a slip at Calvert Marina so I try to get down there as often as I can during the warm months.

However, if you don’t have a boat in Solomons, there are still a lot of cool places to explore, a ton of fun restaurants on the water and the Tiki Bar. Solomons is home to a number of galleries and shops as well as events celebrating the arts and the environment throughout the summer. Many of these destinations are also open during the winter. First there is Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center on Dowell Road. The sculpture garden features a 1/4 mile walking path that meanders through the woods past permanent and loaned sculptures, including over thirty works on loan from the Smithsonian Institution and the national Gallery of Art. Closer to the water you will find the Calvert Marine Museum, a true wonder of discovery. The museum’s prehistory and maritime heritage come together to tell a unique story of the Chesapeake Bay. This is a family-friendly museum that offers live animal, fossils, interactive exhibits, daily activities, and a furnished cottage style lighthouse. Included in the wonders is the Drum Point Lighthouse, which was relocated to the museum. Although it is not June, there is still a lot to enjoy in Solomons in the winter. The restaurants are open as well as the shops and the meaning of summer can be found in every crab cake you enjoy.

Beat the Heat and Head to the Hills In JULY of last year we headed west to beautiful Rappahannock County. Even though our intention in July was to escape the summer heat in the city, this time of year is also an ideal time to visit. The wineries are open for business and the summer crowds are back at home. At the end of 522 and turning right on to Route 211 you will come to the town of (Little) Washington, home of the internationally known Inn at Little Washington. Washington is home to some fun specialty shops like r.h.ballard shop & gallery and Tula’s Restaurant and Bar. Tula’s is a casual restaurant owned by Alexandrians Mark Allen, his wife Elizabeth and John McCaslin.

If you take this road trip and decide to break it up into two days, the Greenfield Inn is a perfect Old Town Crier

place to stay. Right off of 211 at the road leading to Little Washington, this period farm house is delightful and the owners can tell you great stories. Other overnight options are 29 Main On the River in Sperryville and The Loft in Washington – both of these are owned by former Alexandrian Jackie Bogle.

In the winter, the towns of Sperryville and Little Washington are top spots to visit and spend the night.

june

“A Most Convenient Place” In AUGUST we went to “A Most Convenient Place”...Leonardtown, Maryland. Leonardtown is the County Seat of St. Mary’s County.

Although the town has had a growth spurt in the last decade, the town has managed to hold on to that small town charm year round. With so much to do so close at hand, it is no wonder Leonardtown earned its antebellum moniker, “A Most Convenient Place.”

Just a short drive from Alexandria and D.C., wineries, galleries, dining, history and more make Leonardtown a great getaway. Leonardtown is home to Southern Maryland’s only Arts & Entertainment District. The Leonardtown Wharf gives you the opportunity to rent kayaks, canoes and paddle boards on Breton Bay which flows into the Potomac River. This is something to keep in mind for the warmer months. In the heart of town is the Old Jail Museum which was built in 1858 and in use until 1942.

The granite block and brick structure retains its original appearance. On the other side of town is the recently opened Shepherd’s Old Field Market (SOF Market).

You can browse through over 40 shops and services in this “mini mall.” SOF Market has something for everyone...maybe not what you need, but certainly what you might want! One of the anchors of the market is a beer and wine garden. Although they do not brew their own.

There are a number of varied dining options in Leonardtown as well as shopping.

july

august

Wednesday Night Races In SEPTEMBER we spent the afternoon on our friends Carl and Tulinda Larsen’s 50-trawler as the committee boat at the Wednesday Night Sailboat Races in Annapolis. I have sailed into Annapolis Harbor many times over the years. The sight of the U.S. Naval Academy has never failed to impress me as well as the sheer number of sailboats on the water.

This is why Annapolis is known as the “Sailing Capital of the United States”.

The Wednesday Night Races have been a time honored tradition in Annapolis for nearly 60 years and the Annapolis Yacht Club has been the host for every race. “What better way to break up the week than a relaxing evening out on the water?” said John Sherwood, a legendary Chesapeake Bay sailor and longtime Annapolis Yacht Club member. Annapolis sailors do not take their sport lightly! In fact, even during the winter they have frostbite races (see this months From the Bay column).

Annapolis, like Old Town Alexandria, is an old seafaring town along the banks of the Severn

septembe

r

ROAD TRIP > PAGE 28

January 2020 | 27

novembe

r

r e b o oct ROAD TRIP | FROM PAGE 27

River and the Chesapeake Bay. It is also the capital of Maryland and home to the United States Naval Academy.

The Main Street of Annapolis runs from the City Dock along Ego Alley up through town to Church Circle. Like Old Town, former warehouses have been converted into fine shops and restaurants. A few of these establishments have come about in the last ten or fifteen years while others have been there since I started going to Annapolis 45 years ago. While the water activities are best in the warmer months, Annapolis is a great place to visit any time of the year and in the winter it is much easier to find parking.

Historic St. George’s Island In OCTOBER we visited St. George’s Island in the southern part of St. Mary’s County in Maryland. This is a great drive through one of the most picturesque counties in Maryland and only about an hour and a half from Alexandria. When Hurricane Isabel hit the lower Potomac River in 2003, the low-lying peninsula of St. George’s took a direct hit.

The hurricane had wiped out three restaurants...Oakwood Lodge, Evan’s Seafood and Swann’s Restaurant. These were throwback restaurants and bars dating back to the 50’s. But just like in nature, out of ruin there springs new life. Where Evan’s used to be there now stands the Island Inn & Suites and the Ruddy Duck Seafood and Ale House. Out on the point where the Oakwood Lodge stood, the Piney Point Lighthouse and Museum has breathed new life. Before venturing on to St. George’s Island, Piney Point Lighthouse and Museum is a must stop. The property at Piney Point Lighthouse was deeded to St. Mary’s County by the Federal Government in 1980 and the first preservation 28 | January 2020

work began in 1990.

Back then there was just the lighthouse, a keeper’s quarters and a small building which, in the day, was the petty officers quarters. Since that time the small house has been torn down and an extensive renovation project has been ongoing. To get to St. George’s Island, continue on route 249.

As soon as you cross the bridge at Straits Point you are on the island. The Potomac River is on your right and St. George’s Creek is on your left. With the prevailing winds coming out of the northwest, there is usually good wave action on the river.

If you travel to the end of the island and take Thomas Road to the right, you will come to Camp Merryelande, a family oriented campground with beach cottages, beach activities, picnic tables, and beautiful views of both the Potomac and St. Mary’s Rivers.

with clean lines and high ceilings. The seating includes several 4 and 6 tops as well as communal tables and comfy sofa chairs.

The interior is awash with bright colors which contrasts nicely with the changing leaves outside (remember, this was in November). Not only do they provide upright heaters for the patio tables, there is also a huge stone fire place to enjoy during the winter. While Muse Vineyards was our ultimate goal on this road trip, we always like to add a few other spots of interest. The town of Woodstock as well as Edinburg are fun to explore and you can find dining options as well as accommodations at each town.

We have stayed at the Edinburg Renaissance Bed & Breakfast and the Inn at Narrow Passage

r e b m e c e d that sits along the North Fork of the Shenandoah River, a few miles down from Muse Vineyards. Another fun stop is Filibuster Distillery in Maurertown, slightly north of Woodstock. The distillery began on M street N.W. in DC not far from the Capitol.

Home for the Holidays In DECEMBER of last year, as in every December, we write about our own town...

Old Town Alexandria. If you are in town reading this, I do

hope that you enjoy your time here. If you are reading this somewhere else, I hope that you take the time to visit. You can also go to oldtowncrier. com and read the entire Road Trip each month in our issue archives.

Realizing that this is January, some of these destinations are better in the warmer months, however, each can be visited this time of year. The crowds are fewer, the temps colder, so spend some time indoors by a cozy fire and enjoy.

Shenandoah Valley & Muse Vineyards In NOVEMBER we went to the Shenandoah Valley and visited Muse Vineyards and Winery. Muse Winery is located near the town of Woodstock, Virginia on Route 11. The winery lies in a hidden corner of the Shenandoah Valley along the scenic North Fork of the Shenandoah River and at the foot of the mountains. The river snakes its way through the bottom land as it journeys to join up with the Shenandoah River. A low concrete bridge takes you across the water to the gravel road that leads to the tasting room. Muse Vineyards is considered a boutique vineyard “where art, science, passion, and reverence for the tradition of classic wine making converge to produce awardwinning wine.” Vines were first planted on the 50-acre farm in 2005 and the tasting room opened in 2016. In 2015, Muse’s 2009 Clio, a Bordeuxstyle blend was awarded a gold medal in the prestigious Virginia Governor’s Cup wine competition. The tasting room has a very contemporary feel

Three ways to stay in touch!

Subscribe

get

!

Visit our Website oldtowncrier.com

your monthly fix

Subscribe today and enjoy every issue of the Old Town Crier at home.

Fill out this form, enclose a check for $25 (12 issues) and drop it in the mail to: Old Town Crier, PO Box 320386, Alexandria, Va. 22320

Name ______________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________ City/State/Zip ________________________________________

Like us on Facebook @oldtowncrier

Old Town Crier

URBAN GARDEN

MELINDA MYERS

Increase Indoor Garden Success with Proper Watering

T

Photo courtesy of Melinda Myers, LLC

oo much of a good thing can mean death for indoor plants.

Overwatering is a good example of this and a common problem for indoor gardeners. For others it’s the opposite extreme, allowing plants to go too dry. Knowing when to water your indoor plants can increase gardening success and eliminate the stress of uncertainty.

The first step is to throw away your watering schedule. Start watering plants based on their individual need not the date on the calendar. Consider the type of plant, container material and size as well as other growing conditions.

Get to know your plants by checking the plant tag, online resources and books. Those native to tropical climates or wet soils such as peace lily, baby tears and papyrus prefer moist soil. Plants from drier locations like cacti, succulents, Chinese evergreens, ponytail palm and snake plants do best when the soil dries between watering.

Evaluate the indoor growing conditions. Plants located in bright light and warm homes where the humidity is low lose moisture faster and need more frequent watering. Cooler homes, higher humidity and lower light conditions mean longer stretches between watering plants.

Adjust watering as the seasons change. Shorter, often gray days of winter mean plants dry out more slowly.

When the heat and air conditioner are turned on, the humidity level drops and plants dry out more quickly. Plus, many plants rest in winter and prefer drier soil.

Check plants growing in small pots, breathable terra cotta containers and fast draining growing mixes more often and water as needed. Plants growing in larger containers and those made of plastic, glazed ceramic and similar materials dry out more slowly.

Use your finger to determine when plants need to be watered. Stick your finger an inch or so below the soil surface of small pots. You’ll need to go a finger length deep for larger containers. And for succulents and cacti feel the soil through the drainage holes on the bottom of the pot. Water thoroughly until the excess runs out the drainage holes as needed.

Extend the time between watering with self-watering pots and watering aids. These have reservoirs that slowly provide water to plants over time. Or amend the soil with a moisture-retaining product like wool pellets (wildvalleyfarms.com). This organic and sustainable product holds 20% of its weight in water and slowly releases it into the soil when needed. The wetting agents in most potting mixes lose effectiveness after a month or two. These pellets continue working long after this, so you’ll be watering less often.

Make watering easy, so it feels like an opportunity to enjoy each individual plant instead of a chore. Use a watering can with a long narrow spout, making it easy to apply water over the entire soil surface and under the leaves and crown of the plant. This reduces the risk of disease that can occur when the top growth remains wet.

Set plants on saucers or trays filled with pebbles. The excess water collects in the tray and the pebbles elevate the container above the water. This eliminates the need to empty the water that collects and remains in the saucer for more than thirty minutes.

With more experience watering indoor plants, it will become second nature. That means you’ll have more time and opportunity to enjoy and even expand your indoor garden.

Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio segments. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Wild Valley Farms for her expertise to write this article. Her web site is www.MelindaMyers.com.

Old Town Crier

January 2020 | 29

DINING OUT THE GASTRONOMES

We decided to step outside of the box going into the new year and instead of featuring the food and beverage from one local eatery we decided to impart some information to you all about the fireside dining that we have available in and close to Old Town Alexandria. While this is certainly not a complete list of those in the entire city of Alexandria, it is a good start. Look for addresses and contact information in the Dining Guide in this issue.

Chadwicks The fireplace in this joint sits back in a corner at the front of the bar and is accessible to fireside dining when you sit and one of the high tops. This is the place to enjoy good old bar food and a cold beer and talk to the locals.

City Kitchen Like Cedar Knoll, City Kitchen isn’t exactly in Old Town (located in the West End) but we really like the fire feature they have in the restaurant. It isn’t exactly a “fireplace” but it is lovely to look at and you can sit in any of the booths in room and see it. City Kitchen is a lively locals kind of place serving food stuffs that are native to several cities across the U.S.A. And….some fabulous pizza!

Murphy’s Irish Pub The oldest Irish pub in Old Town, Murphy’s has been famous for its wood burning fireplaces since 1978! With fireplaces on both floors. The one on the main floor is double-sided and the one upstairs is a three-sided open stone version. This is the place to belly up to the bar for a pint and take in some Irish tunes while you eat their Irish Stew!

T.J. Stones Grill House & Tap Room TJ’s Tap Room is a popular place to enjoy every sporting function known to man while having one of many craft brews they stock but it is also home to a beautiful stone fireplace located in the dining room while partaking of some hearty fare. There’s a nice wall that separates this room from the sports enthusiasts on the other side and that makes dining a bit more intimate.

Village Brauhaus The Brauhaus is one of the new kids in town and has a definite “It’s Always Oktober Fest” feel when you walk in the door. This time of year is perfect for a good braut and some kraut in front of the fireplace. You might even find a good beer or two in this place!

30 | January 2020

Old Town Crier

Charthouse Probably the most unique fireplace in Old Town, the Charthouse version is a beautiful copper circular version with the flames visible all the way around. This is the only place in Old Town that you can sit by a fireplace and have a waterfront view at the same time.

Il Porto Il Porto is an Old Town icon that serves traditional Italian food in a cozy atmosphere complete with a traditional fireplace. This is the only eatery on the north side of 100 King that has a fireplace.

Magnolia’s on King Magnolia’s is one of the newer establishments in Old Town and the fireplace is on the second floor so some of

Old Town Crier

you may not have realized that they have one. The cuisine has a southern flair and the small bar is also on the second floor but worth the trek up the stairs.

O’Connell’s Restaurant & Bar This popular Irish Bar is not only gorgeous and makes you feel like you’ve crossed the pond when you walk in the door, it has three fireplaces - one on each floor.

The major portion of the décor is well over a couple of hundred years old and was shipped from Ireland. The food is upscale Irish with an American influence.

La Trattoria When someone says a place is cozy, this is the epitome of cozy. The fireplace

is located on the bar side of the restaurant and is a nice touch especially when live entertainment is taking place in the window next to it. La Tratt has been under new ownership for the last couple of years but is serving Old Italian family recipes that the new owners have passed down through the generations.

Cedar Knoll Cedar Knoll isn’t exactly in Old Town (8 miles down the GW Parkway) but we have to let you know about the fireplaces in this historic property that was once one of many that George Washington owned. Cedar Knoll has come back to life in the last couple of years and is serving amazing cuisine and fine cocktails that you may enjoy near a roaring fire.

January 2020 | 31

BEHIND THE BAR

VILLAGE BRAUHAUS 710 KING STREET OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA 703-888-1951 VILLAGEBRAUHAUS.COM

Ron stirs up the Ron “Bourbondy” Stay Classy Alexandria - Evan Williams Bourbon, Clove Simple Syrup, Lemon, Ginger Bitters with a Pear Cider Float garnished with fresh rosemary.

RONALD “RON” SPOHNHOLZ How did you get started in the Bar Business?

horseback, tied up outside, came in to have a few beers and then rode off into the sunset.

I was a cop for 20 years in Alaska. When I retired I did what every cop wants to do, bought a bar.

Tell us an interesting story about an encounter you’ve had with a customer.

What is your biggest bartender pet peeve?

A few weeks ago I had a person come into the bar in a giant gingerbread man costume, said nothing….. then left.

My pet peeve is guests who move tables for no apparent reason. Not a big deal unless you’re old like me who keeps track of orders by table number.

What is the best/worst pickup line you’ve heard at the bar?

“You wanna to go fool around?” And…it worked….she’s my wife. And….she said it to me!

What is the cleverest thing a customer(s) has done to garner a free drink from you?

In Alaska, I had a few guests who arrived on 32 | January 2020

If you could have a drink with anyone in the world, past or present, who would that be?

If I could have a drink with anyone it would be with Prince Ludwig of Bavaria who started Oktoberfest. He bought all the beer!

If you would like to see your favorite mixologist featured in this space, send contact information to office@ oldtowncrier.com.

Old Town Crier

dine out!

Small Batch, Gourmet Hot Sauce

Inspired by foods found in cities across America with a toast to their craft brews, wines, and spirits

We apply the “Hurricane Category Heat Index”

Cajun Dew

JANUARY CHICKEN “POT PIE”

Bayou Inspired

Cajun Dew is the perfect blend of Cayenne and Habenero peppers along with garlic, vinegar and salt. Simple and flavorful.

FatCityKitchen.com 330 S. Pickett Street | (703) 685-9172

SPENT BROKE! YOU

ALL

YOUR MONEY ON CHRISTMAS AND NOW YOU’RE

Available for purchase online at hurricanebobs.com or at The Old Town Store on Union Street in Old Town.

Also featured at several local watering holes in Alexandria.

“A Washington Post Capitol Cuisine Favorite” The Very Best Alexandria has to offer in the Heart of Historic Old Town Famous for our She Crab Soup, Steaks and Crab Cakes

THERE’S HOPE...

50% OFF

SELECT LIST OF WINES BY THE BOTTLE

SUNDAY - THURSDAY

ALL OF JANUARY WE HAVE AN OFF LICENSE FOR BOTTLE OR CASE PURCHASES

Best Brunch in Old Town Saturday & Sunday 9am- 4pm

7966 Fort Hunt Road • 703-347-7545

RiverBendBistro.com Old Town Crier

January 2020 | 33

DINING GUIDE AMERICAN

AUGIE’S MUSSEL HOUSE 1106 King Street 703.721.3970

JOE THEISMANNS 1800 Diagonal Rd. 703-739-0777

BILBO BAGGINS 208 Queen St. 703-683-0300

JUNCTION BAKERY & BISTRO 1508 Mount Vernon Avenue Alexandria 703-436-0025

BLACKWALL HITCH 5 Cameron St. 703-739-6090

LAPORTAS 1600 Duke St. 703-683-6313

CAFE 44 44 Canal Center 571-800-6644 CARLYLE CLUB 411 John Carlyle St. 703-549-8957

THE LIGHT HORSE 715 King Street 703-549-0533

CHADWICKS 203 Strand St. 703-836-4442 CHARLIE'S ON THE AVENUE Mount Vernon Avenue 703-851-3270

LORI'S TABLE 1028 King Street 703-549-5545 LOST DOG CAFE 808 North Henry St. 571-970-6511

CHART HOUSE One Cameron St. 703-684-5080

MACKIE’S BAR AND GRILL 907 King St. 703-684-3288 mackiesbarandgrill.com

CITY KITCHEN 330 South Pickett St. 703-685-9172 fatcitykitchen.com COLUMBIA FIREHOUSE 109 S. St. Asaph St. 703-683-1776 EVENING STAR CAFÉ 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-549-5051 EXECUTIVE DINER & CAFE 1400 Duke Street 703-299-0894 FIN & HOOF 801 N. Saint Asaph St. 703-836-4700 FIVE GUYS 725 King St. 703-549-7991 FLAT TOP BURGER 529 East Howell Ave. 571-970-1006 FOSTERS GRILLE 2004 Eisenhower Ave. 703-725-1342 GADSBYS TAVERN 138 N. Royal St. 703-548-1288 GRATEFUL KITCHEN 727 N. Henry Street HARD TIMES CAFE 1404 King St. 703-837-0050 HEN QUARTER 1404 King St. 703-684-6969 HUMMINGBIRD 220 South Union Street 703-566-1355 JACKS PLACE 222 North Lee St. 703-684-0372 JACKSON 20 480 King St. 703-842-2790 JAVA GRILL 611 King Street 571-431-7631

34 | January 2020

LIVE OAK 1603 Commonwealth Ave. 571-312-0402

MAGNOLIA’S ON KING 703 King St. 703-838-9090 MAJESTIC CAFÉ 911 King St. 703-837-9117 MASON SOCIAL 728 Henry Street 703-548-8800 mason-social.com MOUNT VERNON INN Mount Vernon, Va 703-780-0011 MURPHYS IRISH PUB 713 King St. 703-548-1717 murphyspub.com MYRON MIXON PITMASTER BBQ 220 North Lee St. 703-535-3340 NECTAR COFFEE & WINE BISTRO 106 Hume Avenue 571-431-6150 NORTHSIDE 1O 10 East Glebe Rd. 703-888-0032 OCONNELLS RESTAURANT & BAR 112 King St. 703-739-1124 PORK BARREL BBQ 2312 Mount Vernon Ave. 703-822-5699 THE PEOPLES DRUG 103 N. Alfred Street RAMPARTS 1700 Fern St. 703-998-6616 rampartstavern.com RIVER BEND BISTRO 7966 Fort Hunt Rd. Hollin Hall Shopping Center 703-347-7545 riverbendbistro.com ROCK IT GRILL 1319 King St. 703-739-2274 RT's RESTAURANT 3804 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-684-6010 rtsrestaurant.com

SAMUEL BECKETTS IRISH GASTRO PUB 2800 S. Randolph St. Villages of Shirlington 703-379-0122 SHOOTER MCGEES 5239 Duke St. 703-751-9266 SMOKING KOW BBQ 3250 Duke Sttreet 703-888-2649 SONOMA CELLAR 207 King St. 703-966-3550 SOUTH BLOCK 106 N. Lee Street 703-465-8423 SOUTHSIDE 815 815 S. Washington St. 703-836-6222 SWEETGREEN 823 King St. 571-319-0192 SWEET FIRE DONNA'S BBQ & HOPS 510 John Carlyle Street 571-312-7960 T.J. STONES GRILL HOUSE & TAP ROOM 608 Montgomery St. 703-548-1004 tjstones.com UNION STREET PUBLIC HOUSE 121 South Union St. 703-548-1785 unionstreetpublichouse.com VERMILLION 1120 King St. 703-684-9669 VIRTUE GRAIN & FEED 106 South Union St. 571-970-3669 VOLA’S DOCKSIDE GRILL & THE HI-TIDE LOUNGE 101 North Union St. 703-935-8890 THE WAREHOUSE BAR & GRILL 214 King St. 703-683-6868 warehouseoldtown.com ASIAN

ASIAN BISTRO 809 King St. 703-836-1515 MALAYA 1019 King St. 703-519-3710 MAI THAI 9 King St. 703-548-0600 NASIME 1209 King St. 703-548-1848 STREETS MARKET AND CAFE 3108 Mt. Vernon Ave. 571-431-6810 THAILAND ROYAL 801 N. Fairfax St. 703 535-6622 TOKYO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 66 Canal Center Plaza 703-683-8878 CAPHE BANH MI VIETNAMESE 407 Cameron St. 703-549-0800 KAI ZEN TAVERN 1901 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-836-1212

THE SUSHI BAR 2312 Mount Vernon Avenue 571-257-3232

RED ROCKS FIREBRICK PIZZA 904 King St. 703-717-9873

CONTINENTAL

MEDITERRANEAN

BRABO

by Robert Weidmaier 1600 King St. 703-894-3440 BRABO TASTING ROOM 1600 King St. 703-894-5252 CEDAR KNOLL GW Parkway at Lucia Ln. 703-780-3665 OLD HOUSE COSMOPOLITAN 1024 Cameron Street 703-717-9361 TEMPO 4231 Duke St. 703-370-7900 temporestaurant.com VILLAGE BRAUHAUS 710 King Street 703-888-1951 villagebrauhaus.com FRENCH

BASTILLE 606 N. Fayette St. 703-519-3776 bastillerestaurant.com BISTRO SANCERRE FRENCH 1755 Duke Street LE REFUGE 127 N. Washington St. 703-548-4661 FONTAINES CAFFE & CREPERIE 119 S. Royal St. 703-535-8151 LA MADELEINE 500 King St. 703-729-2854 TWO NINETEEN RESTAURANT 219 King St. 703-549-1141 ITALIAN

BUGSYS PIZZA RESTAURANT 111 King St. 703-683-0313 FACCIA LUNA 823 S. Washington St. 703-838-5998 HANKS PASTA BAR 600 Montgomery Ave. 571-312-4117 IL PORTO RESTAURANT 121 King St. 703-836-8833 LA TRATTORIA 305 S. Washington St. 703-548-9338 LANDINI BROTHERS 115 King St. 703-836-8404 landinibrothers.com LENA’S WOOD-FIRED PIZZA & TAP 401 East Braddock Rd. 703-960-1086 MIA'S ITALIAN KITCHEN 100 King Street 703-997-5300 PARADISO 124 King St. 703-683-5330 PINES OF FLORENCE 1300 King St. 703-549-1796

LA TASCA 607 King St. 703-299-9810 TAVERNA CRETEKOU 818 King St. 703-548-8688 tavernacretekou.com PITA HOUSE 719 King St. 703-684-9194 DELIAS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 209 Swamp Fox Rd. 703-329-0006 VASO'S MEDITERRANEAN BISTRO 1118 King Street 703-566-2720 VASO'S KITCHEN 1225 Powhatan Street 703-548-2747 SEAFOOD

HANKS OYSTER BAR 1026 King St. 703-739-HANK FISH MARKET-OLD TOWN 105 King St. 703-836-5676 fishmarketoldva.com ERNIES ORGINIAL CRABHOUSE 1743 King St. 703-836-0046 THE WHARF 119 King St. 703-836-2834 INDIAN

DISHES OF INDIA 1510A Bellview Blvd.

703-660-6085 DIYA 218 North Lee, 2nd Floor 703-706-5338 NAMASTE 1504 King St. 703-970-0615 MEXICAN LATIN SOUTHWESTERN

CASA TEQUILA (next to Crate & Barrel) 1701 Duke 703-518-5312 CHOP SHOP TACO 1008 Madison Street 571-970-6438 DON TACO TEQUILA BAR 808 King St. 703-988-3144 LOS CUATES RESTAURANT 1116 King Street 703-548-2918 LOS TIOS GRILL 2615 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-299-9290 LOS TOLTECOS 4111 Duke St. 703-823-1167 TAQUERIA POBLANO 2400-B Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-548-TACO (8226) TEQUILA & TACO 540 John Carlyle Street 703-721-3203 Urbano 116 116 King Street 571-970-5148

Old Town Crier

BASTILLE BRASSERIE & BAR

M-F 4-7pm Sat-Sun Noon-5 pm 606 N. Fayette Street $6 Coq-tails, $5 House Wine, $2 off Beers

CHADWICKS 4-9pm M-F 203 Strand Street 703-836-4442

House Drinks $4.00, House Wines $4.00, Narraganset and Chadwick’s Lager $4.00 Select Bottles $3.00

FISH MARKET

CITY KITCHEN

4- 7pm M-F 330 South Pickett Street 703-685-9172 $3.75 Select Wine, Liquor and Beer

3-7 pm M-F 105 King Street 703-836-5676 Select Import Bottles $5.00 Rail Drinks $5.00 Classic Margaritas and Cocktails $6.00

MACKIE’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL 3 - 7pm M-F 907 King Street 703-684-3288

Select Draft and Bottles $3.00, House Wine $5.00, Rail Drinks $5.00, Jameson $5.00

OLD TOWN’S BEST

HAPPY HOURS MURPHY’S GRAND IRISH PUB M-F 4-7pm 713 King Street 703-548-1717

RAMPARTS TAVERN & GRILL M - F 4 - 7pm 1700 Fern Street 703-998-6616

RT’S RESTAURANT

Everyday 4-7pm 3804 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703 684-6010

Select Draft, Rail Liquor and House Wine $3.50

$1.00 Off House Liquor Drinks, Premium Wine Selections $6.00 Select Beers $4 - $5

WAREHOUSE BAR & GRILL UNION STREET PUBLIC HOUSE

4 -7pm M-F 214 King Street 703-683-6868

VILLAGE BRAUHAUS

$2 off Draft Beers and House Wine by the Glass. $5 House Spirits

Rail Drinks $6.00, Draft Beer $5.00, Domestic Bottles $4.00, Wine $6.00

Draft $5.00, Speciality Cocktails $10.00, $2.00 Off Wine By the Glass, $4.00 Well Drinks

Rail Drinks, Draft Beer, House Wine, Jameson and Bushmill Specials!

M - F 4-7 M-F 710 King Street 703-888-1951

T.J. STONE’S

SOUTHSIDE 815

M-F 4-7:30PM Beer: $4.50 Select Imports and Virginia Craft Drafts Select Domestics $3.75 All Rail Drinks $$4.50 House Wines $5.50

4-7 pm M-F 608 Montgomery Street 703-548-1004 Draft Beer: Yuengling, Blue Moon, PBR, Parkway Amber $3.25 House Wines $3.25

COOKING CORNER

JUDY EICHNER

Homemade Chicken Soup and Matzo Balls – A Decade’s Old Winter Staple

W

hether or not the claim that homemade chicken soup is a cure-all, also known as Jewish penicillin, its use is widespread in many cultures around the world. Doctors have differing opinions, but most of the parent’s I know swear it’s so. Try making the soup using the following recipe and see if it makes you feel better the next time you have a cold or an upper respiratory infection.

Happy New Year.

Chicken Soup 1 whole chicken, or 3 chicken breasts (6 pieces) 4 large celery ribs 4-6 large carrots 2 large onions salt and pepper to taste Put all the ingredients in a large soup pot. Use enough water to just about cover the ingredients.

Bring to a rolling boil and then lower the flame to medium and cook for about 45 minutes to an hour.

Remove the vegetables and put in a food processor or blender. Process until the mixture is thick and the vegetable pieces are not distinguishable from one another. Remove the chicken from the pot and cut into bite sized pieces. Add the veggies and the chicken to the pot and slowly cook covered for about 1 to 1 ½ hours. If it looks like a good part of the liquid has evaporated, add a container of clear chicken broth, preferably organic. Serve with either matzo balls (recipe to follow) or very fine egg noodles.

Matzo Balls In a large bowl, put: 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil 4 large eggs, slightly beaten 2 teaspoons of salt, if desired 4 tablespoons of chicken soup or water 1 cup of matzo meal Blend the vegetable oil, eggs, matzo meal and salt together. Add soup stock or water and mix until mixture is uniform. Cover and place the mixture in the refrigerator for 15* minutes. Bring 3 quarts of water to a brisk boil. Reduce flame and drop balls approximately 1 inch in diameter formed from refrigerator mixture. Cover the pot and cook 40 – 50 minutes. Add to soup.

Enjoy! *Be sure and refrigerate the matzo mixture for just 15 minutes. Leaving it in the refrigerator longer, makes the matzo balls tough. Taking the mixture out before 15 minutes sometimes makes the balls fall apart.

36 | January 2020

Old Town Crier

@oldtowncrier

Like us on Facebook!

VISIT OUR CLASSIC WHISKEY BAR!

A local favorite since 1978 American comfort foods and over 250 wine & beer from around the world

Roasted Chicken Month!

Specials Every Day Saturday & Sunday Brunch Wine Bar and a Sports Pub Private Party Room

Join Us for Restaurant Week January 17-26

RampartsTavern.com

121 SOUTH UNION STREET, OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA 703.548.1785 • UNIONSTREETPUBLICHOUSE.COM

1700 Fern St, Alexandria 703.998.6616

BRUNCH SERVED

celebrating american cuisine with libations from around the world

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

GOOD SPORTS GOOD FRIENDS GREAT EATS!

SHRIMP & GRITS MONTH!

MIMOSA & BLOODY MARY SPECIALS

Mondays Only 1/2 Price Award Winning Dry Aged Burger 60” wood birning fireplace! private event room over 300 beer & wine

tjstones.com 608 Montgomery St Alexandria 703.548.1004 Old Town Crier

Wednesdays Only 1/2 Price Wings Buffalo, Cajun, Jerk & Old Bay 907 KING STREET OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA 703.684.3288 | MACKIESBARANDGRILL.COM

8 Hi Def TV’s in 2 Rooms Game Day Specials!

WE ARE AN OFFICIAL GREEN BAY PACKERS BAR! January 2020 | 37

GRAPEVINE

NANCY BAUER

Ten Tips

TO UP YOUR WINE GAME IN 2020

A

survey I read recently said that half the respondents drink wine several times per week or daily. Now, you might think that at that level of consumption, they’d know something about wine, and some did. But a whole bunch of the group surveyed 32 percent - said they actually know very little. And I get that; it describes the first few years of my wine-drinking life.

Gradually, though – maybe it was the first French wine I tasted, during the PouillyFuissé craze of the 70’s, or my first “local” wine, a bottle of Viognier from Horton Vineyards, near Charlottesville - gradually I began to get curious.

What IS this stuff? How’s it made? Are the French grapes in American wine grown in

France? If there’s an aroma of grapefruit in Sauvignon Blanc, does that mean (God forbid) there’s actually grapefruit in it? How does all that work, anyway?

Walking into a wine store and being asked, “What style of wine do you like?” was agony.

What was the correct answer?

“Well, I like white AND red wine!”

Having to open a bottle with a proper waiter’s corkscrew in front of a tableful of businessmen – or a rock band – was guaranteed stage fright. (I once waited on the Oak Ridge Boys and was so terrified about opening an expensive bottle of Bordeaux that I begged another waiter to handle it, which he did, spilling half of it down his sleeve when he fumbled the cork.)

While I am eons away

from being a wine expert, I’m also eons away from fearing a corkscrew, or a wine salesman.

I can find my way around a (reasonable) wine list, and I know that if there’s actual grapefruit in wine, you probably shouldn’t drink it.

These days, wine is, mostly, a whole bunch of fun, and the more I learn, the more fun it becomes.

If you’ve been wanting to up your wine game, here are a few tips for 2020. Here’s hoping your 2020 is full of new discoveries.

Read a book (or two, or three) The ultimate reference guide for wine from around the world is The World Atlas of Wine, now in its 8th Edition,

ORDERS YOURS NOW!

Your Guide to Virginia Wine Country Winery Maps Check-off lists Virginia’s top wines & wineries Dog-friendly wineries Family-friendly wineries + much more!

Get FREE shipping with Promo Code OLDTOWNCRIER from Shopify

(virginia-wine-in-my-pocket.myshopify.com)

Or pick one up at these select wineries: Pearmund Cellars, Magnolia Vineyards, Two Twisted Posts Winery, Narmada Winery, Desert Rose Winery, Lake Anna Winery, Sassafras Shade Vineyard

38 | January 2020

by Hugh Johnson and Jancis Robinson. If you like your words dressed up with pretty pictures, you’ll

was just 6 wineries away from having visited them all.

Virginia’s first wine bloggers, Paul Armstrong and Warren Richard, are still at it, more than a decade later, at Virginia Wine Time. (virginiawinetime.com) They know where the good stuff is, and their 1-2 posts a month often reveal their preferences, as they stop by some of their favorite wineries to pick up their Wine Club member allotments.

love Wine Folly: Magnum Edition: The Master Guide, by the master (mistress?) of the infographic, Madeline Puckette. For a Virginiaspecific text, Richard Leahy’s Beyond Jefferson’s Vines: The Evolution of Quality Wine in Virginia is your best bet.

(Though if it’s winery travel and insider info you’re looking for, you may prefer my own Virginia Wine Travel Journal.)

Try a vertical tasting

Follow a blogger There was a time when you couldn’t lift a glass in a Virginia tasting room without elbowing a wine blogger, but that’s cooled a bit, as blogs themselves have lost some luster. Still, if you like firsthand accounts of winery visits by regular people (read: they appreciate the overall experience at least as much as the subtleties of the wines), you may enjoy one of these.

Wine Trails & Wanderlust

by Matthew Fitzsimmons (winetrailsandwanderlust. com). Matt is new to the blogging world, but is arguably more up-to-date on Virginia winery visits than anyone else on earth. At last count, he

I love this term; for some reason it always makes me think of the upside-down margaritas my summer coworkers and I tossed back at our favorite bar in Ocean City, Maryland. Which makes no sense at all, really, since a vertical tasting of wine is a sampling of different vintages (years) of the same wine, imbibed upright, in small sips, instead of tequila and lime juice gulped upside down.

Vertical tastings are an especially fascinating way to see the impacts of weather on a wine. You can usually find vertical tastings offered as special events at some of Virginia’s more established wineries, such as Breaux Vineyards in Purcellville, Gray Ghost Vineyards in Amissville, and DuCard Vineyards in Madison County.

Compare grapes from different areas Merlot is merlot is merlot, right? Well, sure. Unless you’ve lined up three merlots from GRAPEVINE > PAGE 40

Old Town Crier

EXPLORING VA WINES

DOUG FABBIOLI

CLEAN COMPETITION RAISES THE BAR!

W

hen we play by the rules, respect the balance of the system and have a positive goal, we all win! The other day at our Saturday start up meeting in the tasting room, Anne (who creates the tasting bites for our daily tastings), mentioned how the specialty drinks that we create each month keep getting better.

Anne expressed a need to step up her game in order to keep her creative expression at the best level possible.

Colleen, who creates the drink special, continues to create interesting and diverse wine based cocktails. Who

wins this competition? The consumer and the business!

The Virginia Governors Cup Wine Competition is coming up again next month. This is by far the most intense competition that we participate in. Imported judges, the well promoted Governors Case, tight restrictions on fruit sources and required quantities available are just a few parts that make this competition notably above the rest. In my humble opinion, this competition has helped many wineries strive for a higher level. There always seems to be a few new rules each year to keep the balance

and message clear for the participants, the industry and the consumer. It’s not easy to keep a competition fair and balanced, but emphasizing fair play over “win at all cost” will keep the participants rising up.

This concept plays out in many other areas of our world as well. Sports is an arena where the win is the goal but it seems like the cheating aspect outplays the good sportsmanship lately.

These players and teams are idolized by their fans, both young and old. By showing respect for the rules, the referees and the opposing team, the message of fair

play is passed on to those influential fans. That example from the leader is the ultimate win for society.

In business, it is the concept of the Double Bottom Line. I have brought this up before in my writings, and I bring it up again because it is an important concept. A dear friend expressed to me that 99% of the people see the money is the key part of all business (I know he was being a bit facetious). I agree with that, because without the cash, you can’t pay the bills. But how we make the money, how we treat our team, how we respect the law and what we

give back to the community all are important as well.

Winning at all costs is not a win overall in my humble opinion.

Our wines are entered in the Governor’s Cup competition. I hope we get some superb recognition.

Our tasting room will continue to present creative and high quality flavors and experiences. I continue to encourage other wineries to keep pushing themselves for the benefit of the customer and the industry. Clearly, all boats lift in a rising tide.

Competition is oftentimes the best way to raise that tide!

Tasting Notes For the VA Governor's Cup Our esteemed judges assemble tasting notes for each wine commenting on:

Appearance: clear or dull, color, intensity, other visual observations Aroma: descriptors as to clean or faulty aromatics, fruit, floral, vegetal, spice, oak, chemical, animal, and intensity Flavor: dry, off dry, etc. RS, character of the alcohol, acidity, body, tannin, oak, fruit, floral, vegetal, spice, oak, chemical, animal, and intensity Overall Quality Commercial Suitability The average wine score will be used to determine if it qualifies for a medal.

For more info on the Governor's Cup, visit virginiawine.org/governors-cup

Old Town Crier

real people. earth friendly. fabulous wines.

HOLD YOUR ‘FABB’ EVENT AT FABBIOLI CELLARS! WEDDINGS • CORPORATE OUTINGS • GRADUATIONS • CELEBRATIONS

email us at info@fabbioliwines.com 15669 Limestone School Rd • Leesburg, VA 20176 703.771.1197 • fabbioliwines.com January 2020 | 39

GRAPEVINE FROM PAGE 38

different parts of the world, say France, Virginia, and Chile.

Or Australia. Or Italy. In that scenario – one in which your merlot origin story is set in fair-weather California - then merlot is definitely not merlot.

Comparing varieties of grapes from different regions in a roomful of lively people

can be as delightful and, shall we say, spirited, as comparing regional barbecue styles or NFL teams. Everyone will have their favorite, and everyone will be right.

Take a class I can’t say enough about the Intro to Wine Basics and Essential Blind Tasting Skills workshops offered by

the Capital Wine School in northwest DC. These twohour, evening sessions pack in a ton of information (and wine). capitalwineschool.com Little Washington Winery in Washington, Virginia, has been doing a two-hour Wine Boot Camp for years that still sells out and gets rave reviews. They offer more than a dozen 1-2 hour workshops

OPEN YEAR ROUND THURSDAY-SATURDAY & MONDAY from 11-5 SUNDAY from 12-5

via their Foodie U program. littlewashingtonwinery.com/ wineschool

used senses. Just Google “how to have a blind wine tasting party” and you’re in business.

Try a food & wine pairing

Take a cellar tour

Despite food’s ability to elevate a wine from “meh” to “more, please,” only a handful of Virginia wineries have tapped into this salesboosting strategy as a regular part of their tasting menu.

Check out the wine and food pairing tastings at Fabbioli Cellars in Leesburg, Aspen Dale Winery in Delaplane, Fox Meadow Winery in Linden, and Hillsborough Vineyards in Hillsboro (additional charge).

Your first winery cellar tour will be revelatory. Your tenth will bore the heck out of you.

But if you keep at it, your 50th will bring you right back around to revelation. The more you learn about the processes of wine making – why ferment in a tank vs. a barrel? Why are reds aged longer than whites? – the more you realize you don’t know. It’s an endless cycle of amusement for the curious.

Visit 25 wineries

offering ITALIAN VARIETALS 10100 Three Fox Lane, Delaplane, VA (540) 364-6073 • www.threefoxvineyards.com

tuscany EXPERIENCE

IN VIRGINIA

Why 25? Well, beside its being a nice, round number and semi-aggressive goal, a focused year of visits to wineries (Virginia or elsewhere) will let you learn – and retain – mountains of wine knowledge through comparison and repetition.

By the time I’d visited my 150th Virginia winery in five months, I could pick out a Traminette without tasting, easily tell you which wines go with spicy appetizers, buttery entrees, chocolate desserts and everything in between, and forevermore identify the difference between acids and tannins. To a wine expert, all that comes naturally, but even the experts had to start somewhere.

Host a blind tasting party What is obviously a cabernet sauvignon and clearly a chardonnay becomes a lot murkier when the bottle’s wrapped up in a paper bag. A blind tasting party is always a hoot, and is one of the best ways to get your mind off your eyes and into your lesser-

Volunteer for a harvest Smaller wineries are almost always in need of volunteer help around harvest time in the fall. Just ask your local winery if you can pitch in, and what you learn will make every glass of wine you drink afterwards just that much more interesting. You’ll see the difference between ripe, healthy grapes and rotten grapes. You’ll learn how to quickly sort out MOG (material other than grapes) and see firsthand why a bad sorting process can affect the wine’s flavor. You’ll see just how much equipment is needed to process grapes, and get a big “aha” about why small-batch wine is so much pricier than those ubiquitous labels in the grocery store. And when you’re finished, they’ll give you a free lunch, with wine, of course.

Nancy Bauer (Nancy@ VAWineInMyPocket.com) writes about Virginia Wine Country travel on the Virginia Wine in My Pocket website and smartphone app, and is the author of the book, Virginia Wine Country Travel Journal, available at Amazon.com.

1 in 10 Women Suffer from Endometriosis EndoArmy and Barrel Oak Winery present the

Endo Inspire Gala

Sat., Feb 8th, 6pm • Barrel Oak Winery 3623 Grove Ln., Delaplane, VA

A night to come together, support patients, learn about Endometriosis from medical professionals, and more.

EndoArmy is a 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization dedicated to creating recognition for, give a voice to, and empower the dreams of warriors with endometriosis. Donations go toward helping patients pay for necessary medical treatment as well as awareness.

Be inspired to live beyond your diagnosis.

Ticket Info: https://bit.ly/34IHKRh

40 | January 2020

Old Town Crier

NICOLE FLANAGAN

FITNESS

New Year,

w e N NKE I DR OR R M ATE W

D

o you have a New Year’s Resolution?

Well, if you’re like most, you have at least one resolution, and, if you are like the majority of these promise-makers, your resolution is probably related to health and fitness.

While resolutions are wellintentioned, unfortunately most people fail at keeping them. With all the hype surrounding these promises, it’s easy to get caught up in them without really taking them seriously.

We live in a throwaway society and even our resolutions, I’m afraid, are not immune. However, especially for promises that include improving our health it’s in our best interest to not take them lightly.

So, what’s the secret to successful resolutions? While you can’t wave a magic wand and make your resolution come true, there are some easy steps to take to make it easier to fulfill your promise to yourself.

you’ve made before, then try altering it. For example, instead of stating that you are going to lose 30 pounds, try promising to eat healthier and increase your weekly exercise.

Create a game plan. At the beginning of January, write a comprehensive plan. All successful businesses start with a business plan that describes their mission and specifics on how they will achieve it. Write your own personal plan and you’ll be more likely to succeed as well.

Choose an obtainable goal.

Resolving to look like a super model is not realistic for the majority of us, but promising to include daily physical activity in our lives is very possible.

Break it down and make it less intimidating. Rather than one BIG end goal, dissect it into smaller pieces. Set several smaller goals to achieve throughout the year that will help you to reach the ultimate goal. Then even if you aren’t able to reach your final goal, you will have many smaller, but still significant, achievements along the way. For example, if your goal is to complete a 10K race, your smaller goals could be running a 5K in less than 30 minutes, adding upper and lower body strength training to increase your muscular endurance, and running 2 miles with a personal best completion time.

Avoid choosing a resolution that you’ve been unsuccessful at achieving year after year.

This will only set you up for failure, frustration and disappointment. If you are still tempted to make a promise that

Ask friends and family members to help you so you have someone to be accountable to. Just be sure to set limits so that this doesn’t backfire and become more irritating than helpful. For

Old Town Crier

GO T O BE EARL D IER

AT E Y ONLOKIES CO ES A 3 TIMEEK W

example, if you resolve to be more positive ask them to gently remind you when you start talking negatively.

Reward yourself with each milestone. If you’ve stuck with your resolution for 2 months, treat yourself to something special. But, be careful of your reward type. If you’ve lost 5 pounds, don’t give yourself a piece of cake as an award.

Instead, treat yourself to a something non-food related, like a professional massage.

Don’t go it alone! Get professional assistance.

Everyone needs help and sometimes a friend just isn’t enough. Sometimes you need the help of a trained professional. Don’t feel that seeking help is a way of copping out. Especially when it comes to fitness, research studies have shown that assistance from a fitness professional greatly improves peoples success rate.

YOUR

ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE

Limit your number of promises. You’ll spread yourself too thin trying to make multiple changes in your life. This will just lead to failure of all of the resolutions.

On average only about 20% of us keep our New Year’s resolutions. Unfortunately, some of the biggest failures are found in fitness resolutions.

But don’t let the statistics get you down. By following the tips above you’ll be better equipped to fall into the successful 20% category.

Quality Sport & Trail Horses For Sale Open Year-Round Lessons • Training •Trail Rides • Special Events www.therockingsranch.com • 540.678.8501 January 2020 | 41

KIM PUTENS

FIRST BLUSH

IN SEARCH OF HAPPY HAIR DAYS IN THE WINTER Photo: John Casper johncasperphoto.com Instagram: @johncasperphoto

A

s if the cold, blustery weather of winter isn’t enough to make most of us want to crawl under our covers and not come out until spring, the havoc it wreaks on our hair is, well, hair-raising. Static electricity, moisture depletion, and not-so-nice texture can make for very bad hair days.

To combat the winter hair blues, its best, in theory, to Haircuts $15 Shampoo, Cut & Blow Dry $18 (extra charge for long hair) Scissors Cut $17+up Color $43+up Permanent $45+up (including haircut & conditioner)

start in the fall before the winter blast hits. Developing a strategy of move frequent trims and treatments in the fall will ensure smooth sailing into winter. The best strategy is to whack off those dead ends in the fall so that the hair has a fighting chance by starting off healthy.

Like most of us, that’s all well and good, in theory.

So, what to do? First off,

A Very Good Price!

Good Haircut!

Beautiful Perm!

Long Lasting Color!

Van’s Hairstylists 107 North Washington Street (near corner of King & Washington streets)

703-836-1916

Monday-Friday 9 am-7 pm • Saturday 9 am-6 pm We care and will give you only the best!

Biolage • Vital Nutrient • Socolor • Matrix Perm • Paul Mitchell • Nexxus 42 | January 2020

it’s never to late to get your hair trimmed. So, book an appointment with your stylist to get your ends trimmed and looking healthy again. That in and of itself will instantly give the hair a boost because dryness starts at the ends.

Other things to consider are avoiding and repairing the dryness that winter brings upon our hair. Most of know that the dryness outside causes dryness to our hair, but it’s also the dryness inside that exacerbates the problem.

Going from the cold, dry climate of the outside to the warm, dry climate of the inside puts a lot of stress on the hair.

One strategy for keeping hair looking good starts with a hat. Yes, a hat. We all know how keeping our head covered is key to keeping warmth in our bodies; the same is true about maintaining moisture levels within your hair.

Wearing a hat to prevent split ends and breakage is tantamount to wearing gloves to keep your hands from becoming dry and chapped.

It’s important to switch our hair routines in the winter.

Moisture rich shampoos and conditioners are a must to keep winter hair from becoming blah. Consider also performing a deep moisture treatment to the hair once a week. Simply smooth on a hair treatment or hair masque and cover with a warm towel. Allow the treatment or masque to work its magic for 15 minutes, then rinse. Doing these weekly treatments will help keep hair healthy, prevent breakage and split ends, and eliminate static electricity.

Another best treatment for the hair in the winter is to avoid heat styling. Yes, just say no to the blow dryer and flat iron. Allowing the hair to dry naturally is the best course of action. However, for many of us, that’s not always practical for fear that our hair would turn to icicles as we rush out the door in the mornings.

So, thank goodness for alternatives. A few things to try – leave in conditioners or heat protectant styling products. Instead of using

gels and mousses, which do nothing to replenish moisture in the hair, try hair creams or products made specifically to protect the hair from heat styling. Many of these products come in the form of silicone drops or sprays. Some are creams juiced up with jojoba oil or olive oil. Spread these gems on your hair before you heat style. And, when the opportunity arises, try allowing the hair to dry naturally to give it a break.

Finally, good hair also starts from within, just like good skin, good nails, and good teeth. What we put into our bodies can also affect the health of our hair. Low carb diets are often associated with drier hair. Eating a well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, carbs and good fats all contribute to the wellbeing of your hair. And, let’s not underestimate the importance of drinking plenty of fluids.

Try applying these strategies and say hello to Happy Hair Days!

Old Town Crier

FROM THE TRAINER

RYAN UNVERZAGT

❶

❷

GET A “LEG UP” W IN THE NEW DECADE! OLD TOWN DENTISTRY Frinet Kasper, DDS • Family & Cosmetic Dentistry • Crowns & Bridges • Invisalign • Sealants • Fillings • Whitening • Same Day Appointments 1203 Prince Street • Alexandria, Va. 22314 • 703.683.0800 • www.oldtowndentistry.com Hablamos Español

Old Town Crier

elcome to 2020 and a brand new decade!

Hard to believe that I have been penning this column for well over 10 years! Each New Year brings exciting opportunities for all of us, especially in the world of fitness. A few words of advice for sticking with your resolutions: Keep at it, even if you stumble at times.

Don’t expect to be perfect. Try to establish a regular routine by getting support from family and friends. Exercising with someone is more fun anyway, so let’s hold each other accountable. With that said, my objective is to provide you with safe, effective exercises that can help you reach your training goals.

This month’s exercise is the Leg Press (also called the Hip Sled). It strengthens all the muscles of the legs and hips, particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteus maximus. The leg press is safer than a free-weight squat and can provide much needed back support too. This is a plateloaded machine meaning that you slide on the weight plates before getting started.

Most machines should have a back support that adjusts to different angles. The highest setting provides the most back support. Once you have adjusted the back support to a comfortable angle, sit down into the seat and place your feet about shoulder-width apart on the foot-plate. Notice how the foot-plate has two different angles as well. I placed my feet towards the top, but you can move them lower to make the quadriceps work harder

during the exercise. The last adjustment is the safety stops.

These prevent the weight from crashing down on you in case your muscles fatigue before finishing your reps. Some machines may not have these, but you want to set them so you have about a 90 degree knee angle at the bottom.

To start, push the resistance away from the supports to release them to the side. The legs should be straight but the knees not locked out to keep tension on your muscles (Figure 1). Lower the weight until your knees reach a 90 degree angle. This should take about 2 seconds (Figure 2).

Without pausing at the bottom, push the resistance back up until the legs are straight again but remember to avoid locking the knees. You can press the weight up at a faster pace than lowering. Try at least 2 sets of 10 reps. You can begin with a lighter weight for the first set and progress to a heavier resistance in successive sets.

A strong body starts with strong legs! Remember to encourage one another in keeping those New Years fitness resolutions alive. Until next time….

Unverzagt holds Bachelor of Science degree in Wellness Management from Black Hills State University. He is a certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength & Conditioning Association and a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

January 2020 | 43

SPIRITUAL RENAISSANCE PEGGIE ARVIDSON

Photo: Lauren Fleming Instagram: @Lfbphotography

L

ook, I don’t want to flatter myself and think you’ve been following along all year, so I’ll give you a recap: 2019 went sideways before it began and I spent the next nine months flailing like a kid caught in an undertow on what looks for all the world like a sunny, breezy, beach day to everyone else. In short, it wasn’t fun. It was exhausting emotionally, physically and spiritually. However, true to my form the one area of life that was easy was finding a job and working hard.

I’m a classic workaholic – and I have even tried to convince myself that the ONLY way to stay whole – spiritually, physically, emotionally is to work my ass off and avoid looking up and around. I am still not convinced that working like a horse isn’t the key to keeping my life revolving around the sun without incident.

The more I recognize this pattern, the more I remember the remonstrations of my first hand analysis teacher.

She insisted that with a life purpose on both thumbs, and a classic fire-earth hand I’d be prone to focusing on material success. She said that with a bit of literally holier than thou attitude. At least I heard it that way. Isn’t that the way communication goes? We hear what we want to hear – or think we should hear. I know you’re not supposed to read tone in email, but let’s be honest, we hear undertones even in spoken conversations. And that’s true for those of us who grew up when our phones were still attached to our walls instead of 44 | January 2020

Roaring into the ‘20s.

our faces.

So, I heard her say (with disdain) that to fulfill my purpose I needed to get out of my workaholic, moneygrubbing ways and embrace the spiritual teacher path that is the inverse of my life lesson and then I’d be on purpose.

Well. Life or purpose has a funny way of working out.

I had been in the middle of burnout and breakdown just about the time I had my hands read. In fact most people who come to me or other palmists, astrologers or tarot readers tend to be in the middle of some form of breakdown or burn out. Generally being happy and having everything right in your world doesn’t necessarily launch you into getting a reading.

After my initial reading, I worked very, freaking hard to turn my life inside out so I could find my inner spiritual teacher and self and THEN I could start life on purpose.

My first clue that this was the opposite of my nature should have been that I was working to be spiritual. At the time, I thought that mean that I was doing it wrong. My perception was that spiritual people don’t sweat the small stuff and rise above the mundane stuff that makes living on Earth such a pain – the need to earn a living.

I even drank that spiritual guru kool-aid that indicated if I were a spiritual being than I could simply set my mind to a life of ease and manifesting what I wanted and it would just appear.

Like Dorothy, I headed down the yellow brick road with little more than my dogs and a cockeyed optimism that I’d find my way back home. Along the way I met more than my share of flying monkeys and some of the most precious traveling companions since the Lion, the Scarecrow and the Tin Man. After my own personal version of a house swirling through the sky on a tornado, I’ve landed back where I started before my hand reading, but with so much more understanding that fighting

against type only makes the journey more challenging than it needs to be. (Trees throwing apples anyone?!)

The past decade hasn’t been all wasted time though – I have learned to balance – and that includes my undeniable need for hard work. Whether it’s the combination of willpower or elbow grease or sheer determination involved – working my ass off suits me.

Now though, I know that it’s not just the money at the end of the rainbow (although that is VERY much an important piece

of the puzzle and nothing to be embarrassed about) it really is about the people along for the ride.

Instead of apologizing for my inner workaholic I now introduce her to yogis and meditation retreats so she can keep up with that newfound spiritual side. I have spent my whole life looking for answers outside of me – from security to identity to love and this year, above all else has taught me that if I don’t embrace all the sides of me, I’m never going to have any of it.

For you entering your new decade, I wish you the joy in the journey and the hindsight to embrace the lessons.

Are you at a crossroads and need to make some serious decisions?

If you’re feeling stuck at work, in love or in general, it can feel impossible to get out of your own way.

Peggie helps you assess your situation, using ancient and modern tools to help you move forward with a specific plan of action.

Private Sessions are available by phone or Skype.

PeggieArvidson.com peggieParvidson@gmail.com Old Town Crier

GO FISH

STEVE CHACONAS

Consumption Assumption

B

lue catfish were introduced into the Potomac River as a gamefish in the 70s and 80s. Capitol Catfishing Captain Jason Kintner operates a year-round trophy catfish charter business. Can you eat blue catfish out of the Potomac River? Yes and not really.

The River flows through the District of Columbia, Virginia and Maryland and all have consumption advisories with a sliding scale on numbers, size and amounts that are “safe” to eat. They vary, but all suggest only eating limited quantities of smaller fish and avoiding larger fish altogether. Dietary allotments are based on 8 ounce meals per month.

Since the 1970s, Maryland, Virginia and District of Columbia natural resource and environmental quality agencies have suggested limiting consumption as there is a presence of heavy metal and PCBs contaminants in fish tissue. These can pose a potential health risk to those who eat them. Small fish absorb the hazardous materials and bigger fish that eat absorbing more as they continue to grow, eat and target older larger prey.

They continue to accumulate until they are themselves consumed by the top of the food chain, people. In humans, they can accumulate in body tissue over long periods of time and may negatively affect the nervous system of a developing fetus and may lead to more difficulties with tasks associated with memory, learning and thinking.

Potomac jurisdictions

suggest eating smaller fish will help reduce the intake of the contaminants as they accumulate in fish as they get older and bigger. For those who catch and eat fish, they also suggest consuming different types of fish caught from different locations to decrease the chance of being exposed to the same contaminant.

Cooking methods that drip away fat, like baking, grilling, or broiling cut down on PCBs remaining in the fish. Mercury is found in fish muscle and can’t be cooked away.

The rationale behind these advisories is to assist anglers from overeating potentially harmful fish. But here’s the issue. Invasive blue catfish have been increasing in size and population in the Potomac River. These meaty fish have attracted the attention of anglers and commercial fishermen. In fact, around 5 million pounds, around a $2.5 million dollar Potomac industry, were harvested last year and this has been increasing every year. These fish end up being distributed by wholesalers and end up on grocery market shelves.

The commercial industry is regulated and only fish up to 30” are harvested to avoid more heavily contaminated fish.

Fish are randomly inspected, and USDA tested. Studies show there are low or no contaminants in fish smaller than 30”. It’s when their diets switch to eating other fish when they are 20-22 inches in length that contaminants begin to show up. If “hot” fish show up in spot checks, buyers won’t

take anymore, creating a selfregulating supply chain.

The assumption is that the commercial harvest will be widely distributed across many dinner tables and would not lead to over consumption as with anglers who may have a diet centered on blue cats.

When purchased by consumers in grocery stores, these fish carry no advisory.

Harvesting methods have another side effect. Of the millions of pounds of blue catfish brought to market, 98% are harvested by fish pots or trot lines. The remaining 2% come to the table via haul seine or pound nets.

In light of the possibility of over-consumption, the Maryland Black Bass Advisory Subcommittee questioned the blue cat industry in general as well as the impact on the Potomac bass fishery.

Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources supports the harvest of blue catfish as a way to control the exploding population. Specifically the BBAS raised questions about the use of haul seine nets

to harvest blue cats. It was suggested that dragging 1000 foot long and 10’ deep haul seine nets through spawning areas not only disrupts the spawn, but also occurs in areas where sub aquatic vegetation is emerging. While no studies have been done to substantiate damage to SAVs or to bass spawns, it would anecdotally appear there is some validity.

And since there is a very small percentage of blue cats

harvested with the haul seine nets, cessation of this method of harvest could only improve the overall largemouth bass fishery. It is very reasonable to ask commercial fishermen to switch their 2% haul seine operations to other more productive methods.

Eating catfish could be hazardous to your health but, according to the region’s resource officials, only if you catch them. Apparently, they would have you believe that statistically the risks go down when the catfish are harvested commercially and sold to markets. Consumers should be informed about the disparity in risk assessments.

Author Capt. Steve Chaconas is Potomac River bass fishing guide. Potomac fishing reports: nationalbass.com. Book trips/ purchase gift certificates: info@ NationalBass.com.

Potomac River Bassing in January Cold water fishing is in full swing. Warm water discharge areas like Blue Plains and Four Mile Run are easier to fish.

But for true winter fishing, get some ½ ounce silver or gold Silver Buddy lures. Tie to 10 pound test Gamma Edge fluorocarbon line on a fast Quantum Smoke casting reel. Cast to the shallow end of drops and work down with short burps.

Hair jigs, Mizmo tubes and grubs and drop shot are other techniques to entice fish to bite. They still need to eat, but won’t chase lures very far, so work baits slowly. Rig tubes and grubs on open hook ball head jigs. The leader for drop shots should be around 5 inches. For line, use a 15 pound test Gamma Torque braid with 8 pound test Gamma Edge leader. Drop shot with 1/8 ounce Water Gremlin BullShot weights.

Sharp hooks are really important now since fish mouths are tougher and bites are light.

Mustad hooks are very sharp and stay sharp longer. I use them on ball head jigs. For drop shots, 1/0 Mustad Mega Bite hooks keep baits weedless, but also penetrate easier to set the hook.

Old Town Crier

January 2020 | 45

OPEN SPACE

LORI WELCH BROWN

Adulting for the

Win! Y

ou get to a certain age and you think you’ve got this “adulting” thing down, right?

You’re trucking along, monitoring your credit score, begrudgingly make colonoscopy appointments, take a vitamin or two—heck, you even make your bed on a consistent basis. Fantastic— you have earned your Adult Badge! Then you get the Thursday call, or the Tuesday call or the Monday call or whatever effin day it is that delivers the news that makes you want to go running for your binky.

I got one of those calls just weeks before Christmas. My cousin and I were sending rapid fire texts early one morning hatching plans for my dad’s (her uncle’s) upcoming 90th birthday soiree. She lives in Texas so she was letting me know to expect some packages.

Although every time she’d asked what she could do to help, and I’d replied, 46 | January 2020

“Nothing—just get your butt here,” I knew she would not listen. She’s like me—she loves to plan and shop and surprise. “Keep an eye out for three boxes!” She can’t help herself. She is kind and thoughtful like that. “Okay— I’ll keep an eye out for them,” I responded and then hopped into the shower to start my day. I circled back to the kitchen for my second cup of coffee when I heard my phone ringing and saw Susie’s name on the caller ID. “Hey— what’s up?” “I just did CPR on Randy for 20 minutes.

I’m following behind the ambulance. It doesn’t look good.” Sadly, she was right.

Just 20 days before Christmas, on what started out to be a day like any other, my sweet cousin had to say goodbye to her husband of 32 years.

I started making plans to travel to Houston for the memorial service when I noticed something was amiss with my beloved six year old kitty cat, Macey. An

ultrasound showed large cell lymphoma. Uncurable cancer. Boom! “Take that!,” Life says. “I can’t. It’s just too much right now,” I say. But, Life can be a cold, hard b#t@h when she wants to be. I’m an adult, and I have to deal.

I have to make big, tough decisions. I have to put my big girl panties on and man up even when I don’t feel like I can get out of bed. As I’m writing this, I am alternating between crying my eyes out and trying to decide what course of action to take— chemo or palliative care. I feel helpless, and my heart is breaking in ways I didn’t know possible. I can’t even tell what I’m crying over any more—all the grief is jumbled up—and it is coming hard. I look over at the picture of my oldest brother, Phil, sitting on my desk. We buried Phil in May, and I realize I am crying for him too.

I’m a grown up. I know these things to be true: Life is short. You never know when

your loved ones will be taken from you or fall ill. Nothing is permanent. Why then are these things still so damn hard to swallow when they happen? It’s not like I don’t know loss—besides Phil, I’ve buried my mother, a couple of close friends (way too young), grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and I’ve had to put two pets down. You’d think I’d have this bull by the horns, but I don’t. I am doubled over by Life. It is not fair. Randy and Susie had just celebrated their 32nd wedding anniversary. Macey was just chasing Dozer through the house (she is the alpha) and purring on my chest. It doesn’t make any sense at all. I’ve learned through Buddhist teachings that all human suffering is caused by our inability to accept the impermanence of everything and to let go. I get it, but it doesn’t make it any less hard.

I’m trying my hardest to look for and hold onto the lessons, but even that

is proving challenging. It definitely serves as a good reminder that not everyone’s holidays are merry and bright. Some of us run into the New Year with bells on while others drag themselves over the finish line barely breathing—still grieving losses, figuring out a new normal and navigating a world without a loved one.

Of course, the big lesson is to appreciate every moment we have with whomever we have in our lives. Everything is impermanent except death.

No turning back the clock on that one.

So I’m asking myself how do I carry all this grief into the New Year? How do I look forward to a fresh start when I feel so angry, confused and frickin’ sad? Maybe the better question is how do I let it go in a way that feels like moving forward without forgetting? One day at a time, I guess. I usually kick off the New Year with a new sparkly planner by my side with my goals beautifully scripted in matching ink. This year, however, I am easing my way into things. I am leaning into my faith, and appreciating the small moments of joy. I am doing my best to express gratitude for all my blessings—especially my family and friends who buoy me in difficult times.

I’m reminded that the best medicine for an aching heart is found in helping others find comfort through connection. Life knows that no matter what she throws us, we will bounce back if we stay connected. I know this because I am a full-fledged card-carrying adult. While I may be a little bruised and battered, I’m still winning.

Take that, Life. Now where is my binky?!

Wishing everyone the healthiest and happiest of New Year’s. May your days be filled with sunshine, hugs and wellness.

Old Town Crier

NATIONAL HARBOR

LANI GERING

Giovanni & Olli

I

finally took a ride on Olli – the Harbor’s selfdriving, electric vehicle.

Brought to life a few years ago by Local Motors, this little vehicle is finally coming to life here at National Harbor. It has been being tested in other urban areas as well and is still a work in progress. I have been following Olli’s evolution on a semi-daily basis ever since one of its stops was implemented in front of One National Harbor where I live. I have been curious as to what exactly its purpose/ function is supposed to be in the Harbor. I polled the people in a Facebook group that is for National Harbor residents only and many of us had the same perceptions….many which are misconceptions about Olli. I hope you all find the following enlightening.

What gender is Olli?

You know how you name a boat or a car and it is most usually a female name? I asked Giovanni Medina, the Safety Steward (more about this in a later question) on board during my ride what Local Motors feeling was and he said, “For the most, everyone has referred to Olli as a ‘she’.” I can go along with that.

Does Olli really drive herself?

Yes and No. It is interesting how the virtual tracking system is laid out in the Harbor and there are an abundance of safety features built in to Olli’s system.

She did 98% of the driving while I was on board but Giovanni did intervene a couple of times when a woman stepped out of her car next to where Olli was traveling and made sure things were fine. Otherwise, she stopped at the 4 ways and paid attention to the

What does it cost? pedestrian and vehicle traffic, etc. Basically, at this point in time, Olli still has some human help.

Where does Olli stop?

The stops were designed with availability of a place to pull off the side of the street in mind so there are only three stops at this time. One in front of One National Harbor condos on Potomac Passage, one next to Local Motors and the turn out on Mariner Passage behind the AC Hotel. A stop at the Gaylord Resort was in the initial plan but that has not come to fruition. In the near future, they hope to have permission to operate on the state roads so passengers can use Olli to go to the MGM Grand and the Tanger Outlets. That involves dealing with state government so….

Is it worth riding to get around the Harbor?

This is a totally subjective question. My opinion and that of a couple fellow harbor residents is that, at this point, it is more of a novelty than a viable mode of transportation to a destination. Since it only has three stops and none of them is the Gaylord or the Waterfront, it really isn’t a convenient way of getting around to the restaurants and shops. When they expand stops to the MGM and Tanger, it will make it a viable mode. It is, however, a fun way to educate yourself and your friends and family about where transportation in the future is headed. I am looking forward to taking my friends and family for a ride….

Olli, which employs a responsive cognitive function, is an environmentally-friendly vehicle designed to change the future of mobility. A safe and efficient shuttle, Olli is a viable and sustainable transportation option for cities, companies, hospitals, campuses, stadiums, entertainment districts and any other location where people need to move from one place to another.” – localmotion.com Old Town Crier

Nothing at this point and it will most likely remain free until more options are available for stops. They do ask that you register online at localmotors.com. This means you need access to a smart phone since a barcode comes up for the Steward to scan. It is a good way for them to gather information about the people who are boarding the shuttle. They also encourage passengers to take selfies inside Olli and send them to their hashtag. Right now you can enter your pic in a drawing for an Amazon gift card.

I want to wish all of you who have been reading this section of the OTC since the Harbor column appeared 10 years ago a very Happy New Year! As we welcome a new decade, I wish you all the best of health and happiness!

“Local Motors by LM Industries Group Inc. is a ground mobility company focused on shaping the future for the better. Founded in 2007 with a belief in open collaboration and co-creation, Local Motors began low volume vehicle manufacturing of open-source designs using multiple microfactories. Since inception, Local Motors has debuted no less than three world firsts; the world’s first co-created vehicle, the world’s first 3D-printed car and the world’s first co-created, selfdriving, electric vehicle, Olli.”

January 2020 | 47

National Harbor Calendar of Events - January 2020 2ND – 5TH

11TH

MAGFest 2020 Gaylord National Convention Center

Winter Takeover 2020 9:30 pm – 2:00 am Gaylord National Resort 201 Waterfront Street

Short for Music and Gaming Festival, MAGFest is a four day-long event dedicated to the appreciation of video game music, gaming of all types and the gaming community. This event runs 24 hours a day and offers consoles, arcades, tabletop, LAN, live video game cover bands, chiptunes, vendors, guest speakers and much more. For details and badge purchase log on to super. magfest.org

AC LOUNGE 156 Waterfront Street 301-749-2299 BOND 45 149 Waterfront Street 301-839-1445 BRASS TAP 164 Fleet Street 301-965-9116 BROTHER JIMMY’S BBQ 177 Fleet Street 301-909-8860 CADILLAC RANCH 186 Fleet Street 301-839-1100

CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL 158 National Plaza 301-749-2016 CRAB CAKE CAFE 140 National Plaza 240-766-2063 ELEVATION BURGER 108 Waterfront Street 301-749-4014 FIORELLA PIZZERIA E CAFFE 152 National Plaza 301-839-1811 GRACES MANDARIN 188 Waterfront Street 301-839-3788

48 | January 2020

We’re taking it back to the 80s, 90s and 2000s for the biggest Winter Homecoming and Founders Day event in the USA!! Get ready to party like we did back in the day and rep your school, fraternity and sorority to raise money for charity!! Sounds by DJ Flava of WKYS and Majic 102.3. Casual attire. Dress to partay! Wear your college gear and ‘nailia if you want.Cash bars on-site. Must be 21 or over to attend. Wintertakeover.com Complimentary admission for members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. who attend the Metro Founders Day banquet at Gaylord National Resort January 11, 2020.

25TH 15th Annual Polar Bear Plunge 10:00 a.m.

141 National Harbor Boulevard The “Keep Winter Cold” Polar Bear Plunge raises critical funds and awareness to the climate crisis every year. The Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN) is the first grassroots, nonprofit organization dedicated exclusively to fighting global warming in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Each January, hundreds of passionate climate activists run, walk or skip into the icy cold Potomac River to raise money for CCAN. Just like a charity fun run, our supporters take pledges from their friends to #TakeThePlunge and support CCAN’s vital mission. NetDonor.net

NATIONAL HARBOR DINING GUIDE GRANITE CITY FOOD & BREWERY 200 American Way 240-493-3900 IRISH WHISPER 177 Fleet Street 301-909-8859 MASON'S FAMOUS LOBSTER ROLLS 156 National Plaza 410-298-7850

McCORMICK & SCHMICK 145 National Plaza 301-567-6224 McLOONES PIER HOUSE 141 National Harbor Plaza 301-839-0815 NANDO’S PERI-PERI 191 American Way 301-567-8900

NATIONAL PAST TIME SPORTS BAR & GRILLE Gaylord Resort 301-965-4000 gaylordnational.com OLD HICKORY STEAKHOUSE Gaylord Resort 301-965-4000 gaylordnational.com

PIENZA ITALIAN MARKET Gaylord Resort 301-965-4000 gaylordnational.com POTBELLY SANDWICH WORKS 146 National Plaza 301-686-1160 PUBLIC HOUSE 199 Fleet Street 240-493-6120 REDSTONE AMERICAN GRILL 155 National Plaza 301-839-3330

ROSA MEXICANA 135 Waterfront Street 301-567-1005 SAUCIETY AMERICAN GRILL 171 Waterfront Street 240-766-3640 SUCCOTASH 168 Waterfront Street 301-567-8900 THAI PAVILLION 151 American Way 301-749-2022 WALRUS OYSTER & ALE HOUSE 152 Waterfront Street 301-567-6100

Old Town Crier

We’re transforming the former Scheible’s Fishing Camp in Southern Maryland intoEa’ R premier W E O P beach-chic E N I N G Fhospitality O R B U Sdestination.

INESS!

NOW OPEN!

Eight uniquely curated rooms.

Introductory Rates Available OPENING SPRING 2020

OPENING SPRING 2020

Indoor and outdoor dining — with a view.

Sundries, found finds, artwork and curiosities.

See the rooms and book accommodations at pier450.com/accommodations.

OPENING SPRING–FALL 2020

The beach, the pier... that sunset.

Recreation, dining and event space.

48342 Wynne Road • Ridge, MD 20680 • info@pier450.com

n!

Only 20 minutes from Leonardtow

Exceptional Alexandria Living with Craftmark Homes

DECORATED MODEL | QUICK MOVE-INS AVAILABLE

2-Car Garage, 4-Level Rooftop Townhomes from the Mid $700s Discover a unique sense of place in a lively community close to Old Town Alexandria, Amazon HQ2, Yellow Line Metro, and much more.

Take advantage of the best that D.C. has to offer just beyond your brand-new Craftmark townhome featuring designer packages, upgraded features and Bosch appliances. Enjoy walkability to the upcoming South Alex Town Center-Alexandria’s new Hot Spot!

Sales Manager | Lori Windsor (703) 507-6882 lwindsor@craftmarkhomes.com

CraftmarkHomes.com/SouthAlex DECORATED MODEL NOW OPEN | QUICK MOVE-INS 4-Level Rooftop Townhomes from the Upper $700s Explore Craftmark’s luxurious new townhome, The Bradley, available in a remarkable Alexandria neighborhood.

Central to our nation’s capital, major commuter routes & metro, and Amazon HQ2 in National Landing in Crystal City, the stage has been set for extraordinary living.

Come tour our brand new model home, and discover it all for yourself!

Sales Manager | Eric Yakuchev (703) 989-6662 eyakuchev@craftmarkhomes.com

FillmorePlaceWestAlexandria.com Brokers Warmly Welcomed.

Must register and comply with policy terms.