Old Town Crier- July 2016 Full Issue

Since 1988 • Priceless

July 2016

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

Road Trip

NORTH, SOUTH, EAST & WEST Dining Out

CEDAR KNOLL RESTAURANT History, Romance & Magic Personality Profile

JOHN KENNETH ZWERLING Champion of the Underdog Business Profile

ROSEINA’S IN HOLLIN HALL Good Food and Wine to Go! oldtowncrier.com

july’16 A Division of Crier Media Group OTC Media LLC PO Box 320386 Alexandria, VA 22320 703. 836.0132

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office@oldtowncrier.com oldtowncrier.com Published the first week of every month.

Worth waiting for!

PUBLISHER Bob Tagert MARKETING & ADVERTISING Lani Gering Bob Tagert SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE Ashley Schultz

A Bit of History After Hours

Alexandria Events DESIGN & PRODUCTION Electronic Ink Art & Antiques 9 Royal Street, SE Leesburg, VA 20175 703.669.5502 Chris Anderson Peggie Arvidson Sarah Becker Frank Britt Bonnie Browning F. Lennox Campello Steve Chaconas Doug Coleman Jimmy Deaton Doug Fabbioli Nicole Flanagan

CONTRIBUTORS Lani Gering Miriam Kramer Sarah Liu Jeff McCord Kate McLean Julie Reardon Chester Simpson Bob Tagert Carl Trevisan Ryan Unverzagt Lori Welch Brown

Behind the Bar

8 11

Financial Focus

6

45

Open Space

First Blush

43

Personality Profile

4

Fitness

40

Pets of the Month

17

15

Fourth of July Trivia

22

Points on Pets

16

28

From the Bay…

24

Publisher’s Notes

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From the Trainer

41

Road Trip

20

Caribbean Connection

18

Gallery Beat

14

Spiritual Renaissance

44

Chef’s Special

34

Go Fish

39

The Last Word

13

Civil Discourse

9

Grapevine

36

To the Blue Ridge

26

Dining Guide

32

High Notes

12

Urban Garden

Dining Out

30

National Harbor

46

Virginia Wine Trails

Exploring Virginia Wines

38

On the Road

Business Profile

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© 2016 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 as well as St. John, USVI.

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On the road with OTC John and Ruthie Caputo took a short side trip to Old Town on their way home to Port Clinton, Ohio and picked up an Old Town Crier in the process. In the spirit of their journey, they took another side trip to the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulpher Springs, West Virginia for this photo op!

If you would like to see your picture here, take the OTC with you on your next trip, snap a high resolution photo and send it along with information for the caption to office@oldtowncrier.com.

Old Town Crier

July 2016 | 1

PUBLISHER’S NOTES BOB TAGERT

T

he first day of summer was June 20 and the heat was upon us, so I decided for this month’s road trip I would stay close to Alexandria with a few excursions a few more miles out.

Interviewing John Kenneth Zwerling was a walk down memory lane (we are about the same age and have been in the D.C. area a long time).

Sarah Becker writes about Alexander Hamilton, the man and Broadway play, while in Caribbean Connection Jeff McCord relates to Hamilton’s early years in St. Croix, USVI. Douglas Coleman goes beyond Fort Ward in this month’s Civil Discourse.

Doug Fabbioli talks about the value of collaboration in the wine industry as Frank Britt takes us on a tour and tasting at Horton Vineyards.

Steve Chaconas remembers fifty years later the difference Boat U.S. has made to the safety of the boating world.

I hope that you enjoy this issue of the Old Town Crier. It has been a nice ride these past 29 years. We have met a lot of cool people and have visited many fine destinations throughout our regional area.

Happy July 4th and let us not forget what our personal freedoms mean and our responsibility to uphold them.

LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS

OLD TOWN FARMERS MARKET

Alexandria’s Confederate Statue: Stay or Go? We here at the Old Town Crier feel Alexandria’s Confederate soldier should remain standing.

But we'd also like to hear from our community. What’s your opinion?

Send your comments to office@ oldtowncrier.com

MARKET SQUARE • 301 KING STREET SATURDAY 7 A.M. – NOON, YEAR ROUND Free parking in Market Square garage during market hours People who come to Alexandria on Saturday mornings find themselves in a busy plaza where local farmers and artists have been selling their products since 1753. Old Town Alexandria’s Market Square is thought to be one of the nation’s oldest continually operating farmers markets, serving as a primary source of meat, dairy, fish, fruits and vegetables for Alexandrians. George Washington sent his produce from Mount Vernon to be sold

here. Today, the market offers folks a way to reconnect to the past, while participating in an ongoing local and national tradition.

DEL RAY FARMERS MARKET

CORNER OF EAST OXFORD & MOUNT VERNON AVENUES SATURDAY 8 A.M. – NOON, YEAR ROUND The Del Ray Market is producer grown, with fresh vegetables and fruits in season. All year round, this market offers meats, eggs, fresh pasta and sauces, Amish cheese, yogurt, bakery goods, eggs, jams and jellies, fancy nuts and bakery goods.

OLD TOWN’S NEWEST FARMERS MARKET NORTH MONTGOMERY PARK 901 NORTH ROYAL STREET THURSDAY 3-7 P.M., YEAR ROUND WEATHER PERMITTING

NEW!

Old Town's newest Farmer's Market debuts on Thursday, May 5. The market will feature local growers, bakers, and other area providers of wholesome foods including Twin Springs, Grace's Pastries, Bread & Water, and Relay Foods.

Since 1988 – Priceless

From the Bay to the Blue

Ridge

July 2015

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

Road Trip

THE MYTHIC WEST

Destination Grand Canyon Grapevine

NEW KENT WINERY New Kent, Va

Business Profile

KIRWIN’S CANDY & ICE CREAM An Old Favorite in a New Location Dining Out

FOTI’S

A Culpeper, Va Culinary Delight

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2 | July 2016

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Alexandria

9 ALEXANDRIA/ USA BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION 6-10 p.m.

Admission: Free Oronoco Bay Park 100 Madison Street VisitAlexandriaVA.com

Visitors celebrate America’s 240th birthday and Alexandria’s 267th along the Potomac waterfront at Oronoco Bay Park and enjoy live music by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, patriotic birthday cake, food vendors and a dazzling fireworks display.

15-16 ALEXANDRIA COMCAST OUTDOOR FILM FESTIVAL Gates open at 5:30 p.m.

Films begin at dusk.

Admission: Free Waterfront Park 1A Prince Street VisitAlexandriaVA.com/summer Come spend a night under the stars at the Alexandria Comcast Outdoor Film Festival. Two movies will show on a 40foot inflatable movie screen, with the beautiful Alexandria Waterfront as the backdrop. Visitors to the historic district are encouraged to bike, walk or take the Metrorail Yellow or Blue lines to the King Street Station and take the free King Street Trolley to the festival.

16 CINEMA DEL RAY OUTDOOR MOVIES Fun begins at 7 p.m.

Films begin at dusk.

Admission: Free Mt Vernon Recreation Center 2701 Commonwealth Avenue Bring family, friends, neighbors and a blanket to watch these open-air movies including Peanuts, Toy Story and Aladdin at Cinema Del Ray, now in its 11th season.

Old Town Crier

JULY TOURS, EXHIBITS, EVENTS

23 9TH ANNUAL DEL RAY MUSIC FESTIVAL 3-8 p.m.

Admission: Free; pets welcome Mt. Vernon Avenue DelRayMusicFestival.com The 9th Annual Del Ray Music Fest is a celebration of local talent, demonstrating what an exciting music community we have right here in the D.C. area. Local musicians including Anthony Pirog, Wanted Man, Jack Kilby & The Front Line and Elroy Jenkins will perform on two stages at Pat Miller Square right in the heart of Del Ray. Celebrate summer with friends and neighbors at this free neighborhood event.

Sunday, celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday with special family-friendly tours of the apothecary from 1:30-6 p.m. Hooray for Books will be selling Harry Potter merchandise, including the latest release, and leading Harry Potter trivia. Fun photo opportunities and take home booklet included in ticket price. Advance purchase for a timed ticket is required through the online store shop.AlexandriaVA.gov, and all children must be accompanied by ticketed adult. Tickets are available online beginning July 1 at shop.AlexandriaVA.gov.

23 SUMMER CONCERTS AT CARLYLE HOUSE 7-9 p.m.

Admission: Free; $5 donation suggested Carlyle House 121 N. Fairfax Street 703-549-2997 www.carlylehouse.org Join us at Carlyle House Historic Park for our annual summer concert series! We are excited to welcome back Howard University’s DuPont Brass for not one, but two concerts. They will be the featured band for our June and August concerts.

The July concert will feature a surprise band you won’t want to miss! So pack a picnic basket and join us on the lawn for an evening of music. This is a cosponsored event by Carlyle House and Alexandria’s Black History Museum.

30-31 HARRY POTTER BIRTHDAY WEEKEND AT THE APOTHECARY Admission: $15 (30th) -$6 - ages 5 and up (31st) Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum 105-107 S. Fairfax Street Tickets: shop.AlexandriaVA.gov Visit the Stabler-Leadbetter Apothecary Museum to join in on its annual celebration of Harry Potter’s birthday.

Saturday features adult-only tours of the museum from 7-10 p.m. that includes a Harry Potter-themed adult beverage, make-and-take activity, fun photo opportunities and time to explore collection items familiar from the Harry Potter series and their real-world uses.

Event ends in time to join the fun at the special midnight release of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – Parts I & II at local bookstore Hooray for Books. On

July 2016 | 3

PERSONALITY PROFILE BOB TAGERT

John and his not so under ‘dog’, Sam

I

t is 1965. Ensign John Zwerling is on active duty with the Navy in Vietnam commanding his landing craft. Bullets are flying and explosions are ringing in your ears.

Sweat, anticipation and fear gripped everyone. “Vietnam was like being in a movie,” Zwerling tells me. “You know, I always wanted to be a Navy guy!”

Talking from behind a slightly disheveled desk that looks like it gets a lot of use sits a bear of a man…John Kenneth Zwerling, champion for the underdog!

grumbling from the area merchants that his men were not paying their debts. Zwerling took it upon himself to look into the matter and he found out that most of the complaining was coming from the jewelry merchants.

Upon further investigation he learned that it was cheap jewelry and poorly made. The shops also employed lovely ladies to greet and entertain the sailors with companionship and drink.

Zwerling realized that his men were getting ripped off and approached his JAG officer (military attorney) about

JOHN KENNETH ZWERLING

in 1970.

It was a tumultuous time in Washington, D.C. in the 1970’s. On May 9, a week after the Kent State shootings, 100,000 demonstrators converged on Washington to protest the shootings and President Nixon’s incursion into Cambodia.

Championing the underdog, Zwerling and former roommate at AU and fellow Alexandria attorney Marvin Miller went to D.C. to represent the arrested demonstrators to see that they got their day in court. “We had our own people out there and they would radio us as to where arrests were being made and where the demonstrators were being taken. We would get over there to insure that the

LTJG J.K. Zwerling Boat Group Commander

demonstrators had proper representation,” he tells me.

Another friend who was helping the demonstrators was Zwerling’s friend and current Alexandria attorney Phil Hirschkop. Hirschkop was the PERSONALITY PROFILE > PAGE 42

Champion of the Underdog Zwerling was born in Brooklyn, New York and grew up in Yonkers. He attended a private high school and was captain of his school’s football team and swim team. He was a contract ROTC candidate that meant that after high school he owed the military two years of active duty. He thought about joining the Army but chose instead the Navy. “Good thing too,” he tells me.

“The casualties of that year’s class of Army Junior Officers was very high.”

While stationed in San Diego he was the Division Officer and had to look after and discipline his men. It came to his attention from a higher authority that there was some 4 | July 2016

the problem. The JAG officer wrote a letter to the merchants. The outcome was that if the sailors would return the merchandise they would be fully reimbursed. This impressed the young officer and he thought, Wow, I wish I could write a letter like that!”

This thought stayed with him and upon his discharge from active duty he attended Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts which is recognized as a premier university dedicated to educating new leaders for a changing world. And the world was indeed changing. After graduating from Tufts, Zwerling pursued his law degree at American University and graduated Old Town Crier

BUSINESS PROFILE BOB TAGERT

ROSEINA’S 1307 SHENANDOAH ROAD HOLLIN HALL VILLAGE CENTER 703-768-0064 ROSEINAS.COM

W

here can you go and order food for a special dinner, party or any social gathering and have it prepared by a former Executive Chef of the Ritz Carlton? In the Hollin Hall Shopping Center you will find Chef Uffe Mikkelsen and his dedicated staff creating a dazzling array of delicious food in a cozy storefront known as Roseina’s.

Uffe Mikkelsen was born and raised in Denmark. He attended culinary school in Copenhagen and then worked at Restaurant Els in the Nyhaven area along the waterfront, canal and entertainment district in Copenhagen. A century ago one of the regular clientele was Hans Christian Anderson. From here Mikkelsen took over the chef duties at Restaurant Scott in Copenhagen In 1986, Mikkelsen found himself in Boston were he became Executive Sous Chef at the Ritz Carlton. From there he moved to the Washington, D.C. area where he was promoted to Executive Chef at the Ritz Carlton in Washington, Tysons Corner and finally at Pentagon City.

“I arrived in America at a good time,” he tells me, “the role of the Executive Chef was changing to being more incorporated into the whole dining concept, and the Ritz was one of the best.” “The Ritz’s philosophy was…Ladies and Gentlemen serving Ladies and Gentlemen, and I have Old Town Crier

ROSEINA’S IN HOLLIN HALL taken that idea to Roseina’s.

After leaving the Ritz, Mikkelsen joined the company of Windows Catering as their Executive Chef. At the time this hugely successful catering company was located on north Royal Street in Old Town. After some time, Mikkelsen had a desire to open his own catering company, but with a twist. He could continue his desire to prepare excellent dishes while also preparing great sandwiches, entrees, soups and salads where folks could find “Good Food to Go”…Roseina’s.

Roseina’s has it covered from top to bottom. They will prepare whatever you want from a small party to a large banquet. The fare can include appetizers and entrees including Cajun Grilled Shrimp, Grilled Fillet of Red Snapper, Maryland-style Crab Cakes, Grilled Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon, Beef Bourguignon as well as many other selections. They also offer a wide variety of choices with their “Reception Displays”.

If you are planning a dinner or reception and wish to use your own

ceramics, bring them in and they will plate it up with what ever you desire and then pair it with their great wine selection. Dinner parties could not be any easier!

For the “Good Food to Go” folks, the store is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11am to 8 pm. Each day they offer their year-round specials, special sandwiches, entrees, soups and salads as well as a childrens menu. Their everyday lunch and dinner menu can include up to 16 delicious choices. Menu choices also change with the season to compliment the weather as well as to take advantage of the fresh produce that is available at that time of the year.

After fifteen years in business, Roseina’s is still going strong. “Our neighbors eat here,” I am told. “The neighborhood embraced us from the beginning and is the strongest part of our clientele — a repeat business.” Besides the immediate neighborhood, Roseina’s also has a large following from Fairfax County as well as Alexandria proper, where their business continues to grow.

When your stomach growls, or you don’t have the time or inclination to prepare for that special dinner party, take a short drive to Roseina’s and introduce yourself to your own personal Executive Chef…Uffe Mikkelsen.

July 2016 | 5

FINANCIAL FOCUS CARL M.TREVISAN, CFP© & STEPHEN M. BEARCE

Manage Your Finances As You Near Retirement

A

s your target retirement date gets closer, what was once an abstract concept may now feel more like a reality. This life event can provoke different feelings for different people. While some might feel excited about the possibilities the non-working years might bring, others may be anxious and fearful.

Regardless of your emotions, now is the time to stay focused on maximizing your retirement savings while also looking ahead to develop a retirement income plan that supports your vision of retirement. The following are some tips you may find helpful.

‘Catch Up’

If you are age 50 or older, one way to help maximize your retirement savings is to take advantage of “catch up” contributions. The “catch up” contribution provision allows you to make additional contributions to your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored

retirement plan. If you’re unable to do this, try to contribute at least as much as the employer’s match – otherwise, you’re leaving money on the table.

Open an IRA

If your employer doesn’t offer a retirement plan or you’re self-employed, consider opening an IRA. Even if you already participate in a 401(k) or other plan at work, an IRA can help supplement those savings and help you gain access to a potentially wider range of investment options.

Keep in mind you are still eligible to contribute to an IRA whether you contribute to an employer-sponsored plan or not. You can also make catch up contributions to an IRA if you are age 50 or older.

Convert to a Roth IRA?

Traditional, SEP, or SIMPLE IRA, or employer sponsored retirement plan, and move the assets into a Roth IRA. You will owe federal and possibly state income tax on the before-tax amounts in your employer plan or IRA converted to a Roth inthat tax year, but not the 10% IRS early distribution penalty. Once you settle that bill, though, you’ll be able to withdraw all the money in your Roth IRA during retirement without owing any tax or penalty, provided: (1) the Roth IRA has been open for at least five years and you are age 59 ½ or older; or (2) the distribution is a result of your death, disability, or using the first-time homebuyer exception.

The benefits of tax-free distributions in retirement may justify the conversion

costs and allow for flexibility to manage taxable income in retirement. Converting to a Roth IRA is not appropriate for everyone. Some factors to consider include your tax bracket now and expected tax bracket in retirement, availability of funds to pay taxes due on the conversion, and your time horizon. Talk to your Financial Advisor and tax advisor to discuss your specific situation before you convert.

Develop a Retirement Income Plan

Now may also be a good time to develop a retirement income plan. A retirement income plan helps make the transition from accumulating assets in your portfolio to determining how you will use all of your various sources of income to cover your living

expenses when you’re no longer working.

It’s critical to start the retirement income planning process before you retire.

If your planning process determines there’s a gap between your desired expense projections and your required income, you still have time to make some adjustments.

These can include retiring at a later date, working part-time in retirement, increasing your current savings, or reducing expense projections. You may want to begin the process with the following: Analyze your essential and discretionary expenses and create a realistic budget. This process will help you identify all of your sources of income, including Social Security, retirement savings, pensions, investments, etc. A Financial FINANCIAL FOCUS > PAGE 10

An often overlooked retirement planning strategy is the Roth IRA conversion. A Roth IRA conversion occurs when you take savings in a

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Old Town Crier

URBAN GARDEN JIMMY DEATON

Y

ou may have heard or even read about compost tea, but just what is it, you may ask? Well the first thing we need to do is understand a little about living soil and how it works in relation to plants.

Microbes are responsible for aiding limitless plant processes, including helping plants feed, protect themselves from diseases and creating the very soil that supports us all. Microbes work as a team with plants by breaking down organic matter (which, by the way, is actually inaccessible to plants in a form that they can actually use) into a form that they can use to feed themselves. It’s a pretty complicated subject although fascinating, but think of them as microscopic compost factories.

So even though compost is great to add to the garden, by making compost tea and especially aerated tea you’ll be supercharging that compost into a powerhouse that can be used in one of 2 ways. You can use it as a soil drench that will kick up the microbiology in your soil making it very healthy and thriving. The other way is by using it as a foliar spray that does a great deal in keeping plants healthy. By foliar spraying the plants with aerated tea you’ll be helping suppress foliar diseases, increase the amount of nutrients available to plants and help speed up the break down of toxins.

So, if you’ve been using compost the traditional way by working it into the soil in the beginning of the season and not as a tea, you have been losing out on a lot of benefits.

So how does one make this you may ask? Is it expensive to make? What materials do I need? Well Farmer D is about to show you. So grab a cold beverage, sit back and read away.

You’ll need the following items: 1. A 5 gallon bucket. We have cats so we have plenty of those big yellow buckets that cat litter comes in and I use one of them.

2. An air pump, tubing and a 4 inch round air stone. I picked mine up at the local PetsMart.

3. Compost. I personally use Old Town Crier

earthworm castings which are superior to regular compost.

4. Unsulfured molasses.

5. Liquid kelp/seaweed. I also like to use Espoma’s liquid fertilizers in the mixture as well.

Fill the bucket with water to about 3 inches from the top and if using water from a municipal water source which most of us will be doing, hook up the air pump with the air stone and let it run in the water for 24 hours to get

rid of the chlorine. Chlorine is used to kill microbes in the water which is what we’re trying to establish in the first place. If possible, rain water is the best thing to use and doesn’t need advanced prep.

Once your water is ready, add about 2 cups of earthworm castings to your water. Then add a quarter cup of molasses. What I do when it comes to this part is use hot water to help thin out the molasses before adding to the water in the bucket. Then add

COMPOST TEA MAGIC!

a quarter cup of your liquid kelp/ seaweed and let the mixture bubble away for at least 24 hours. The jury is out on this in my opinion because I’ve read that it should ‘bubble’ aka aerate between 24 to 72 hours. I go about 36 hours. When you see a foam on top of the water you know you have a good microherd brewing. If you brew it longer than 48 hours you’ll need to add more molasses since the microbes are feeding off of the sugar.

When you go to use it, it should have a sweet earthy smell to it which means you have a good strong tea with plenty of beneficial bacteria ready to go to work with your plants. If it has that rank, sour smell do not use it. That smell is a sign of bad bacteria that will actually do more harm than good to your plants and the soil.

Now use some cheese cloth or a pair of stockings and strain the tea in to a clean bucket. Fill a spray bottle with this tea and spray the plants really good — especially the undersides.

The worm castings that are leftover can be applied to your garden to help boost the soil. One thing to remember is that tea must be used within an hour of ceasing the aeration process to reap all the benefits the tea has to offer. One of the benefits of foliar application is it helps control certain pests since certain forms of bacteria feed off of the protein which comprises the exoskeleton of many targeted culprits.

If you have any tea left over, do a soil drench on the plants that aren’t doing so well in the garden to give the soil that they are in a boost.

You can do the compost tea as much as you like because unlike using chemical fertilizers you cannot overdose plants on compost tea unless you are over watering but that’s an entirely different subject.

Also note that research has proven that by using compost teas that the plants are healthier, yield more and for those that are food based, are sweeter tasting than those fertilized with chemicals.

Questions or comments about Urban Garden or a garden question for Jimmy: office@oldtowncrier.com. Write “Urban Garden” in the subject line.

July 2016 | 7

A BIT OF HISTORY SARAH BECKER©

Alexander Hamilton

“A

lexander Hamilton spoke in paragraphs,” 36 year-old playwright, composer, and actor Lin-Manuel Miranda told 60 Minutes.

Miranda’s Broadway musical Hamilton is New York’s hottest new show. Whoda thunk an 18th century politician of Hamilton’s type capable of drawing record-setting crowds? Former Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson, a Democratic-Republican, did not think him swell. Jefferson served as Secretary of State from 1790 until 1793.

Aaron Burr, Hamilton’s 1804 dueling partner, serves as the show’s narrator.

The hip-hop, rap-style musical starts: “How does a bastard orphan, son of a whore and Scotsman, dropped in the middle of a forgotten spot in the Caribbean by providence comma grow up to be a hero and a scholar?” The song My Shot is the show’s anthem.

Hamilton, a transplanted New Yorker, was General George Washington’s aide de camp (1777); a Federalist and Secretary of the Treasury from 1789 until 1795. His is the threatened face of today’s $10 bill, or maybe not. The musical, which opened on Broadway in February 2015, generates generous profits weekly.

“After so long an experience of your public services, I am naturally led, at this moment of your departure [as Secretary of the Treasury]…to review them,” 8 | July 2016

President Washington wrote in 1795.

“In every relation, which you have borne to me, I have found that my confidence in your talents, exertions and integrity, has been well placed,” Washington said. “I more freely render this testimony of my approbation, because I speak from opportunities of information wch cannot deceive me, and which furnish satisfactory proof of your title to public regard.” Like Washington, critics and audiences give Hamilton rave reviews.

“Alexander Hamilton, an illegitimate orphan from the Caribbean, was painfully aware of his lack of status; an outsider trying to fight his way into the inner ranks of society and government,” biographer Ron Chernow explained. Chernow serves as the musical’s historical advisor.

“Even when Hamilton and Jefferson started feuding, Washington was able to tolerate a quite significant degree of dissent from within his administration,” Chernow said. Madison exiled himself from Washington’s affection. Jefferson, too, pulls away. But Washington never had cause to doubt the personal and political loyalty of Alexander Hamilton.”

“Hamilton was very important in coaxing [General] Washington back out of retirement, convincing him that the American Revolution was incomplete without the Constitutional

Convention,” Chernow concluded.

“I think [theirs] was really the most productive partnership of the early years of the republic.”

Washington, having survived the hazards of two wars, felt the Articles of Confederation unnecessarily weak.

The American Revolution concluded January 14, 1784 with the Treaty of Paris and the Articles—sent to the 13 States for ratification in 1777— were loosely structured. To call the league-like American Confederation of sovereign States the United States of America was a misnomer.

“The disinclination of the individual States to yield competent powers to Congress for the Federal Government — their unreasonable jealousy of that body & of one another — & the disposition which seems to pervade each, of being all-wise & allpowerful within itself, will, if there is not a change in the system, be our downfal (sic) as a Nation,” General Washington wrote in January 1784.

“This is as clear to me as the A,B,C; & I think we have opposed Great Britain, & have arrived at the present state of peace & independency, to very little purpose, if we cannot conquer our own prejudices.” In the musical Washington and Jefferson, both slave owners, are portrayed by black actors.

Alexander Hamilton also argued for constitutional change. In 1782, using a pseudonym, Hamilton penned several advocacy articles. He claimed: “vesting Congress with the power of regulating trade ought to have been a principal object of the confederation for a variety of reasons. It is as necessary for the purposes of commerce as of revenue.”

Secretary of the Treasury Hamilton communicated often with Alexandria’s Collectors of Customs Charles Lee and John Fitzgerald, as well as Vincent Gray Inspector of the Revenue for the port of Alexandria.

“We never shall establish a National character, or be considered on a respectable footing by the powers of Europe, [unless] the regulation of Commerce is enlarged,” Washington declared. “I now endeavor…to

connect the Western Territory by strong commercial bands.”

The Mount Vernon Compact, a navigational agreement negotiated between Virginia and Maryland resulted. After the March 1785 Compact was signed, conference delegates further drafted an agreement recommending uniform commercial regulation and uniform currency.

Alexander Hamilton was asked to represent the State of New York at the expanded 1786 Annapolis Convention.

“In 1785 [John Tyler, Sr.] made a proposition in the Virginia legislature for the appt. of Commissrs. to meet at Annapolis such Comsrs. as might be appointed by other States, in order to form some plan for investing Congress with the regulation & taxation of Commerce,” James Madison wrote. “The attendance at Annapolis was both so tardy and so deficient that nothing was done on the subject.” The Conventioneers’ 1786 recommendation: that all States send delegates to Philadelphia to “devise such further provisions as shall appear to them necessary to render the constitution of the Federal Government adequate to the exigencies of the Union.” Hamilton wrote the Annapolis Convention’s September 14, 1786 report.

The final meeting, the Constitutional Convention was convened for the “sole and express purpose of revising the Articles of Confederation.” In May 1787 fifty-five delegates from twelve States met in Philadelphia’s State House (now Independence Hall) to begin the four month process. Among those assembled: Virginia’s George Washington, George Mason and James Madison; Maryland’s Daniel Carroll; Pennsylvania’s Benjamin Franklin, James Wilson and Robert Morris [Washington’s host]; South Carolina cousins Charles Cotesworth Pinckney and Charles Pinckney, and New York’s Alexander Hamilton. Eventually the Articles were scrapped and a new Constitution crafted. Thomas Jefferson, then Minister to France, did not attend.

A BIT OF HISTORY > PAGE 10

Old Town Crier

CIVIL DISCOURSE DOUG COLEMAN

Fort Worth

M

ost Alexandrians are familiar with Fort Ward, but fewer are aware that Alexandria was protected by nine other forts and many smaller batteries. The first was Fort Ellsworth, constructed on Shuter’s Hill after the occupation of Alexandria in May of 1861 and named after the first Union combat death, Colonel Elmer Ellsworth. Following the Yankee defeat at Manassas in July, they were hemmed in by Confederates, who were as close as Bailey’s Crossroads.

In September of 1861, the invaders began throwing up a defensive perimeter in earnest. Soon a number of forts sprung up on the heights surrounding Alexandria. To the south across Hunting Creek were Fort Lyon, where the Huntington Metro is today, and a then a number of supporting redoubts stretching to the hills overlooking Belle Haven, including Forts Farnsworth, Weed, O’Rourke and Willard.

Between Forts Ellsworth and Ward was Fort Worth. This one of the most important forts of the 68 surrounding the capital because of its commanding position on Seminary Ridge. Look out (preferably at night) from the crest of the hill where Saint Stephens and Saint Agnes upper school is today and one will immediately appreciate the vast amount of real estate commanded by the heavy guns of the fort.

Construction began in September 1861 on land owned by Arthur Herbert, one of the founders of Burke & Herbert Bank. Herbert was absent at Manassas with the 17th Virginia; he would serve through the war and eventually rose to become the regiment’s colonel. His house and outbuildings were torn down and the bricks and boards used for construction of the fort. Nearby Vaucluse, located where the ER for Alexandria Hospital is today, suffered the same fate.

What went up on Herbert’s property was a self-flanking four bastioned redoubt with a perimeter of 463 yards, Old Town Crier

or about half the size of Fort Ward. It was constructed of the heavy clay and cobbles found on that hill, surrounded by a deep wide ditch backed by a thick earthen parapet. Inside were two brick powder magazines and a long bombproof differing in construction from the standard in that it was entirely underground and lacked the characteristic mounded face. It was set up to mount about 25 guns, including a 100 pounder Parrott and several 30 pounders and 4.5 inch rifles. These guns could accurately throw their shells 7000 yards - four miles. Additionally, the fort contained emplacements for heavy mortars and standard field artillery. In the bastions, fast-firing 6 pounders could blast canister rounds across the abattis of interwoven tree branches surrounding the perimeter.

Down the hill lay the “road to Fairfax” — the Little River Turnpike — and the Orange & Alexandria Railroad; the fort’s main batteries were focused in that direction, though the 100 pounder in the south bastion could sweep the 180 degree arc from Alexandria to Edsall’s Hill (Landmark Shopping Center). This suggests the real purpose of these forts — essentially they were fire bases as in Viet Nam, set up to dominate the surrounding countryside to prevent enemy concentration and movement. Nor could Lee’s army expect to get its own artillery within range of Alexandria, its camps or even of the forts themselves. The heavy guns in the forts substantially outranged and outclassed the type of light field artillery travelling with the Confederate army. On the hills, even Federal field artillery would outrange similar guns below - and the Federal artillery would enjoy the protection of earthworks and pre-surveyed ranges to prominent landmarks. To give one some idea of the destructive power of a big Parrott, a 200 pounder fired into a Confederate camp at Yorktown took out 17 soldiers with a single shell.

Forts Ellsworth, Worth and Ward each had a 100 pounder pointed into

Fort Worth and environs

the Valley of Hunting Creek, while Fort Lyon had several 100 and 200 pounders pointed in that direction.

In actual experience, the Yankees found that the fort was too high above the Little River Turnpike to cover it by night, as the commander discovered following the disaster at Second Manassas in 1863. They fixed this problem by constructing Fort Williams on Cooper’s (Traitor’s) Hill at the top of Quaker Lane, tearing down Cooper’s house now for bricks to construct a powder magazine. Fort Williams and its supporting batteries and trench lines flanked Fort Worth and Little River Turnpike quite well.

The construction of batteries on the hill where Bishop Ireton School is today and then block houses below effectively sealed the road.

The gap between Fort Worth and Fort Ward was connected by a line of trenches with battery emplacements for field guns at intervals; these batteries were left empty, but could be quickly filled with field artillery if

Plan of Fort Worth

CIVIL DISCOURSE > PAGE 11

July 2016 | 9

A BIT OF HISTORY FROM PAGE 8

Since the early days of the Federal Government, the State Department and the Treasury have repeatedly disagreed on the conduct of foreign policy,” Washington Post editor J.R. Wiggins wrote in 1964. “It is doubtful if on any subsequent occasion this disagreement ever reached the level of the first perilous decade of the American Republic.”

The slavery debate coupled with Hamilton’s post-Revolutionary War debt remedies confirmed the Cabinet conundrum. “That I have utterly, in my private conversations, disapproved of the system of the Secretary of the

treasury, I acknolege [sic] & avow: and this was not merely a speculative difference,” Jefferson wrote on September 9, 1792.

States’ rights: unified federal control.

Jefferson and Hamilton quarreled.

The Secretaries squabbles were fueled by partiality; Jeffersonian newspaper editor Jon Freneau and a partisan press. “[To] further delineate Mr. Hamilton’s political principles; the room being hung around with a collection of the portraits of remarkable men, among them were those of [Francis] Bacon, [Isaac] Newton and [John] Locke,” Jefferson

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explained. “Hamilton asked me who they were. I told him they were my trinity of the three greatest men the world had ever produced. He paused for some time: ‘the greatest man,’ said he, ‘that ever lived, was Julius Caesar.’”

Vice President Aaron Burr, weary of Hamilton’s deprecatory New York politics, challenged him to a duel in Weehawken, New Jersey on July 11, 1804. New York frowned on dueling.

Burr shot Alexander Hamilton dead on the first draw. Gouverneur Morris orated the funeral.

Who Lives, Who dies Who Tells Your Story is the musical’s concluding

song. “America you great unfinished symphony/You sent for me.” Miranda leaves the multi award-winning Broadway production, his role as Hamilton on July 9.

Port City Brewing Company, specialists in craft beer, was mentioned in last month’s column, The American Whiskey Trail. It is my pleasure to inform readers that Port City received a 2016 RAMMY Award, Regional Food and Beverage Producer of the Year.

Congratulations to all!

Email: abitofhistory53@gmail.com

FINANCIAL FOCUS FROM PAGE 6

Advisor can help you determine when and how to take withdrawals and build an investment strategy that generates income in retirement while still giving your investments the opportunity to grow.

Consider Social Security. For married couples or divorced individuals, there are numerous options regarding when and how you elect to take your Social Security. Your choices can have a significant impact on the total benefits you receive over time. Your Financial Advisor can help you analyze the Social Security benefit options available to you and help you evaluate which one best fits your personal circumstances.

Think about longevity. Americans are living longer and more active lives, which can translate into two or three decades of living in retirement. This affects not only how much you will need to save but also how much you’ll need to budget for health care expenses. You are eligible for Medicare when you turn age 65. If you retire before age 65 and don’t have health care through your former employer, you will have to purchase your own coverage. And, while Medicare will help cover hospitalization costs and doctor visits, you’ll probably want to secure supplemental coverage. Additionally, you should consider long-term care insurance — the

younger you are when you purchase long-term care insurance, the less expensive it is.

Nearing retirement can bring excitement — and also anxiety. But some careful planning now can help ease any anxieties you might experience down the road. You might want to enlist the help of a Financial Advisor to review your investments, help you develop a retirement income plan, navigate the complexities of evaluating your Social Security benefit options, and plan for health care expenses. Now is the time to evaluate where you stand financially and determine what steps you need to take to help ensure you’re able to live out your unique vision for retirement.

Wells Fargo Advisors is not a legal or tax advisor. This article was written by/for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Carl M. Trevisan, Managing Director-Investments and Stephen M. Bearce, First Vice PresidentInvestments in Alexandria, VA at 800-2478602.Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOT BANK-GUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE. Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate nonbank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2016 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved.

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Old Town Crier

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CIVIL DISCOURSE FROM PAGE 9

the need arose. Several hundred yards of this trench line is well-preserved on the grounds of Episcopal High School, including several battery emplacements. A tiny portion of the hockey stick shaped battery just north of Fort Worth is still standing at the edge of the soccer field at Saint Stephens and Saint Agnes School.

On the other side, there is still a sunken battery emplacement at the crest of the hill in Fort Williams Park, while the magnificent powder magazine at Fort Williams is almost completely intact.

Following the war, Colonel Herbert returned to his hill and constructed his beautiful mansion “Muckross” in the south bastion of the fort. His cousin Constance Cary Harrison noted that he at least got two solid masonry cellars out of the deal, leading to speculation that the south magazine is the basement of the house. I have been in that house; the basement is a dark stone and seems too large for a magazine, leading one to wonder what did become of the south magazine. Delevan Miller, revisiting Fort Worth 25 years after the war, says it was the bombproof being used as an outside cellar. The north magazine, on the other hand, was obvious when I was a kid. It had a mound about seven or eight feet high, with brick stairs descending into the earth and turning right at the bottom. At the turn, it was blocked by large concrete blocks, probably

from the 100 pounder emplacement Colonel Herbert had to uproot when he constructed his new house. Circa 1977, we learned why he had blocked the magazine — a bulldozer rediscovered it, turning up a lot of 4.5 inch Schenkl shells and other assorted ordnance abandoned by the Yankees. A Google Earth peek at the site today demonstrates the clear outline of the interior of the magazine along Harris Place, leading one to wonder if a good portion of the structure isn’t still down there, perhaps with additional ordnance.

The fort is gone now. In 1969 there was a plan to put in townhouses and largely preserve the area, which represented one of the densest areas of Civil War archaeology imaginable with its adjacent camps, trenches and supporting batteries. Except for the south bastion occupied by Muckross, the fort was almost completely intact — more so than Fort Ward, but the townhouses lost and the area became Pulte tract homes. Today there is a sign marking the site and not much more. I sketched the fort and house from the next hill in 1970, but that is long lost. If anyone has photos, relics or other information, I would love to hear from you.

Doug Coleman is an attorney and amateur historian in Alexandria, Va. Comments and corrections are welcome: dcoleman@colemanlawyers.com.

ALEXANDRIA HAS A LIVELY MUSIC SCENE. CHECK IT OUT! Old Town Crier

July 2016 | 11

HIGH NOTES CHRIS ANDERSON

I

The MONKEES Good Times!

t’s safe to assume that, in 1966, no one could‘ve predicted that The Monkees would be a longterm concern. After all, it was just a silly TV show. Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones, Michael Nesmith, and Peter Tork were hired for their personalities, not their artistry. They were great singers but rarely played on their records or wrote their own songs.

Instead, their records included songs by the best writers of the time and featured some of the most celebrated session musicians L.A. had to offer.

Regardless of who played on those tracks, they are among the greatest ever recorded. And so the Monkees were a hit, even if they were a sham.

It soon became apparent, however, that they needed to tour. Rather

than utilizing a backing band, they learned how to play. And they pulled it off. Frustrated by their lack of involvement, Nesmith fought and succeeded in gaining creative control for the Monkees. His argument was validated by 1967’s Headquarters, one of the finest albums the 60’s had to offer.

Some albums that followed, including Pisces Aquarius Capricorn &Jones Ltd and The Birds The Bees & The Monkees were both groundbreaking and popular, while later albums like Instant Replay and The Monkees Present have more of a niche following. The show ended in 1968, after which they teamed with Jack Nicholson to create the surreal film, Head. Tork quit soon after; Nesmith left in 1969; and the band dissolved after 1970’s Changes.

Cut to 1986. 60’s nostalgia was in full bloom. MTV celebrated the Monkees’ 20th anniversary by reairing the series while Rhino Records reissued their catalog and assembled the first of many rarities compilations.

12 | July 2016

Dolenz, Jones, & Tork reunited for a successful tour and single, “That Was Then, This Is Now”. Monkeemania was back! Inevitably, there came an album, the unfortunately-titled Pool It! Overproduced and filled with unremarkable songs, it failed spectacularly.

In 1996, they regrouped with Nesmith for a TV special and a new album, Justus. Unlike Pool It!, this album was written, performed, and produced by the four Monkees. Given those circumstances, Justus was solid. Unfortunately, the material was uneven and it came nowhere close to being a commercial success. Soon after, Nesmith left again and the band continued on the reunion circuit.

Following the death of Davy Jones in 2012, Nesmith returned and they embarked on several tours over the next few years. As their 50th anniversary loomed, it became apparent that there needed to be some sort of celebration. There was a tour lined up but, even more fitting, there was a new album in the works. It would become one of the finest to ever bear the Monkees’ name.

Produced by Adam Schlesinger (Fountains of Wayne), Good Times! features songs contributed by several contemporary songwriters along with tracks originally recorded in the 60’s and completed for this album. While this could’ve been a mess, instead it’s a masterpiece.

Pool It! was a disaster because the idea to update the band’s sound resulted in nothing resembling the Monkees. Justus fell short because it sounded like a bunch of old guys who were out of touch. Where Good Times! succeeds is in the fact that it was curated by artists who adore the Monkees.

Kicking off with the title track, you are instantly transported to 1967.

Based on a demo by Harry Nilsson (and featuring his original vocal), this song smokes. Good times, indeed!

Andy Partridge’s “You Bring The Summer” and Rivers Cuomo’s “She Makes Me Laugh” are both twee, but in all the right ways. Schlesinger offers up “Our Own World”, which would not be out of place on one of their early albums. “Gotta Give It Time” is an unfinished track from 1967, updated here.

As solid as all this is, it in no way prepares you for Ben Gibbard’s fragile, meditative “Me & Magdalena”, hands down one of the greatest Monkee songs ever. The juxtaposition of Nesmith and Dolenz’s voices on this track is one of the most beautiful things I have ever heard and most surely the song of the year.

“Whatever’s Right” is a Boyce/Hart tune that was originally attempted in the 60s but was recorded fresh for this album. “Love To Love”, written by Neil Diamond and sung by Davy Jones, dates from 1967. A staple of rarities compilations, here it’s freshened up with new backing vocals from Dolenz & Tork. This leads into Tork’s “Little Girl”, a mellow, jazzy number that he had originally written for Jones to sing; instead, it’s dedicated to him.

One of the more curious tracks is the Noel Gallagher/ Paul Weller collaboration, “Birth Of An Accidental Hipster”. A multi-sectioned, psychedelic epic sung by Dolenz and Nesmith, this is almost like a modern take on the Head movie. It almost succeeds, its only flaw being that it fades out far too soon.

Tork takes a fantastic pass through the Goffin/King classic, “Wasn’t Born To Follow” and Nesmith offers up the ethereal “I Know What I Know”, a very different song for him, and one of his most beautiful. Closing out the album is Micky’s “I Was There (And I’m Told I Had A Good Time)”, ending the album with a laugh.

There are several bonus tracks, the best of which is Zach Rogue’s “Terrifying”, sung by Dolenz. Andy Partridge offers up “Love’s What I Want”, a fun, upbeat number, while Peter Tork’s “A Better World” is odd.

Finally, we have a very different, jangle-pop version of “Me & Magdalena”. A phenomenal take but they made the right choice with the album version.

Released to rave reviews and the highest chart positions since their initial run, this is easily one of the most successful reunion albums of all time. Ideally, they would make another in the same vein, sooner rather than later, as I’m sure there are plenty of writers who would happily supply material. However, if they never make another album, this is a magnificent way to go out.

Old Town Crier

THE LAST WORD MIRIAM R. KRAMER

The Boys in the Boat

“W

hen you get the rhythm in an eight, it’s pure pleasure to be in it.

It’s not hard work when the rhythm comes—that ‘swing’ as they call it. I’ve heard men shriek out with delight when that swing came in an eight; it’s a thing they’ll never forget as long as they live—George Yeoman Pocock, racing shell builder “It’s the greatest eight I ever saw, and I never expect to see another like it.”—Jim Ten Eyck, Syracuse coach, eightytwo years old Daniel James Brown’s hit book, The Boys in the Boat, has been hovering at the top of the non-fiction bestseller lists for good reason. Brown met Harry Rantz, a member of the eight-man rowing crew that won gold at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, when Rantz was dying of congestive heart failure. Yet he happily told stories to Brown about his experience rowing in a boat that is often termed the best crew to ever row together in an eight-man shell. Their races happened during the backdrop of the Depression, when the American people needed someone to cheer and something to feel good about.

When speaking to Brown, Joe implored him with tears in his eyes to write “[not] just about me. It has to be about the boat.” Brown realized that to Joe the boat meant more than the exquisite shell or the determined people in it, although they were part of it. The boat at its best was a mysterious moment of transcendence that caused Joe to adopt dependence on and trust in others while feeling a sense of timelessness.

His experience as a rower

Old Town Crier

proved a turning point in Joe’s difficult, independent life.

In the book Joe serves as a symbol for the other kids in the Washington Husky rowing program who were poor, working-class, hard-working and diligent, focused enough to leap through all hurdles to achieve the ultimate prize.

Joe Rantz was a kind, hardworking kid who lost his mother at an early age. He and his brother mostly had to fend for themselves, and he was sent back and forth to a cold aunt across the country.

Then his father married Thula, a concert violinist who produced Joe’s half-siblings while having no outlet to display her innate talents in rural Washington state. At one point in Sequim, Washington, the deeply frustrated Thula decided that she had had enough. Joe’s stepmother urged Harry, Joe’s weak father, to leave the fifteen-year-old at the old house there because he was another mouth to feed in the depression. They headed eventually to Seattle.

From that moment on Joe sublimated his abandonment, learning to depend only on himself, growing his own produce, trading it for others, and finding a way to go to

high school while working any job he could find. His only solace was a high school girl who loved him, a woman named Joyce whom he planned to marry.

When he had saved enough money and arrived at University of Washington to major in chemical engineering, he heard of the rowing club and went through the rigorous tryout process. Becoming a member of a freshmen boat, he realized that he had finally found something he wanted to excel at, with obstacles to overcome that would match or overshadow past challenges. He wanted to rise through the ranks to junior varsity and varsity and perfect this unwieldy, exceptionally difficult sport. Considering his few mental blocks, he wondered if he would ever make it, although he had Joyce’s full support.

One of the reasons Joe Rantz eventually became a superb rower is George Yeoman Pocock, an innovative British shell-builder who had moved to Seattle and created gorgeous boats with various special woods in which no detail was spared. They were functional art, as perfect as a wooden shell could be. Once other rowing clubs had seen the competition fly in his boats, people from all over ordered his shells, and he became known as the best shell-builder in the world.

His wisdom influenced all the boys, and he took a special interest in Joe. As Brown points out, Pocock was a motherless son, and he understood Joe and his special bent for independence and self-reliance, since Joe had been abandoned twice.

He focused Joe on the

necessity of realizing that he had a team around him, a team that he must depend on and harmonize with, no matter how hard he stroked on his own and to his own rhythm. In that way he broke down Joe’s defenses and probably those of other hardscrabble team-mates to help them achieve the best results possible.

In Joe’s senior year, after a series of back-breaking but character-building summer jobs, he had no idea if he would make varsity. He had been put

in the third team the previous year for his erratic performance.

Yet George Pocock’s advice, to sublimate his independence and ego within the boat, stayed with him.

In his senior year, his legendary coach, Al Ulbrickson, proclaimed that he was mixing up his freshman, sophomore, junior varsity, and varsity teams to find the best combination of boys that could win through to the Olympics. With the THE LAST WORD > PAGE 17

MYSTERY READING AT ITS BEST

by Virginia author Jeffrey Roswell McCord

CARIBBEAN MYSTERY AND INTRIGUE A dead Marine washed ashore on a Caribbean island leads investigators to otherworldly perpetrators in historic pirate waters and high level abuses in Washington. An intrepid maritime historian working the case for U.S. Naval Intelligence discovers a 60-year record of extraterrestrial activity in the Caribbean basin. History and national security politics meet science fiction in this mystery based on exhaustive factual research and informed conjecture.

CARIBBEAN hISToRY AND ADvENTURE Where did the villain General Santa Anna of Alamo infamy retire? Is time travel possible?

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Available from Amazon or as a Kindle download

July 2016 | 13

GALLERY BEAT F. LENNOX CAMPELLO

photos: George Miller, The Art League

I

am often asked, usually by friends outside the art cabal, and by people who become interested in collecting art, but have never collected artwork, what they should “collect.”

“What should I buy Lenster?” “How do I start?”

And thus, I would like to answer this question in this month’s column.

Many years ago, I formed an educated opinion on this subject based on empirical observations. And in my opinion, for most of us (not the Rubells, Saatchis and the de la Cruzes), there are really only two basic rules to start an art collection: 1. Collect what you like, and…

2…..Whenever possible, buy the original.

That’s clear, right? Buy and collect only what you like, what attracts your eyes, brain, guts… and what interests you personally, and is within your economic means. If you like the work of a particular artist, or a specific kind of prints (like Japanese woodcuts), or drawings (such as figurative drawings), then focus your collection in those areas.

This also comes with a caveat, as a lot of excessive attention is often placed on a “focused” collection. A diverse collection may make less sense to some than a focused one, but it only has to make sense to you!

After all, it is your collection.

It has also been my experience, that the more affluent a “beginning collector” is, the higher the probability that he/she will get swindled into spending a lot of money for wall décor and fancy frames. Since most of us are not affluent, the high 14 | July 2016

end of the commoditized art market is not where I’m focusing this post.

For those affluent folks: if the “gallery” has large realistic paintings of cigars resting on wine glasses, or the artwork comes with an “option” for a rococo frame, run for your lives!

If you live around here, the DMV offers an immense variety, and multiple, loads of, tons, mucho, a lot, beaucoup, diverse sources to begin an art collection.

The key to most of that statement is the number of art schools, art leagues, art centers, and reputable commercial art galleries that exist in our area. Add to that the number of independent artists’ studios, and you have the perfect mix for starting an art collection.

Let us start with the schools; nearly all art schools and universities put together student shows. Usually these are Master of Fine Arts (MFA) shows – the graduation show for MFA program students.

American, Catholic, George Mason, George Washington, Maryland, Montgomery Community College, Northern Virginia, and others are but a sampling of some excellent places to troll for student artwork. No matter where you live around the DMV, there’s a student art show somewhere nearby.

Buying student artwork generally equals buying an artist early in his/her career.

Buying an artist early in his/her career is the “golden nugget” of most art collectors’ hopes. That puppy has crossed my road a few times in my life.

In 1989 I stood in front of an original oil painting

by Scottish painter Jack Vettriano at the Royal Scottish Academy in Glasgow... I loved it!

I think that it was Vettriano’s first ever show (it was a group show; actually a painting competition or was it the Royal Scottish Academy annual show?), and there were two of his early paintings (all done as I recall, at his first - and only - art class).

It was on sale for 300 British pounds, which at the time for me might as well have been 300 million pounds, since my US Navy Lieutenant’s salary barely covered expenses in Scotland, which is where I was stationed at the time. That painting sold for 300 pounds... 300 pounds at the time was around $500 dollars.

Today, although he is despised by the art critics and the British arts establishment, he is adored by the public and by some very important collectors, and his works, if you are lucky enough to get on the waiting list for one, ranges in the hundreds of thousands of pounds.

And that early one that I passed on? Sold at Sotheby’s a few years ago for a lot more... a LOT more pounds.

Beginning art collectors can possibly find their own early Vettrianos at art competitions, MFA shows, outdoor art festivals, local art groups (such as the Art League in Alexandria), regional art centers (such as GRACE in Reston or the Arlington Arts Center in Arlington), open studios, etc.

I will discuss open studios in our region in a future column.

Old Town Crier

Imagine-July 2016.qxp_Layout 1 6/18/16 10:25 PM Page 1

Celebrating 25 years together!

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How time and fashion flies, but the look is still as sophisticated and classic as when we started representing Kiki Verveniotis and her line, “Go Lightly.”

Many of Imagine’s customers have already collected Kiki’s suits, coats, jackets and the most comfortable pants you've ever owned. Come in and see many of her bestsellers, updated for today, plus new styles from her line of recycled and repurposed clothing,”Kiki & Pooky.” The model is Kiki’s daughter, Koula, who attended shows with her mother from the time she was born and is now a cover girl and chief assistant.

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September 12-18, 2016

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Sunday 11 am – 5 pm

An Open Air Painting Extravaganza!

Watch our international juried artists paint for 5 days. Meet the competition painters, learn about their inspiration and purchase gorgeous area paintings from your favorite artists.

The Batman Brooding From the Naked Superheroes series Charcoal on Paper, 20x16 inches ©2015 F. Lennox Campello Represented by Alida Anderson Art Projects, LLC Washington, DC For more information or images of other works from the Naked Superheroes series, email us at info@alidaanderson.com

FEAST YOUR EYES.

Join us at the Holiday Inn Solomons for

Affaire of the Arts

Saturday, September 17 6 - 9 p.m. $25 per person Mingle with the artists and purchase their paintings! Your art purchases support the festival and 5 local charities.

VISIT A MUSEUM.

Thank you!

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Old Town Crier

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Enamelist’s Gallery 105 North Union Street

Cochran David 105 North Union Street

Curzon Hill Antiques 108 South Columbus Street

Principle Gallery 208 King Street

Betty Grisham Studio 105 North Union Street

The Hour 1015 King Street

Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery 105 North Union Street

Printmakers, Inc. 105 North Union Street Kelly’s Art & Frame 510 North Washington

A Galerie 315 Cameron Street

St. George Gallery 105 North Alfred Street

Oerth Gallery 420 South Washington Street

Imagine Artwear 112 King Street

July 2016 | 15

POINTS ON PETS KIMBERLY GILL & SARAH LIU

KING STREET CATS ADOPTION CALENDAR JULY 2016 FOR DETAILS & MORE INFO website: www.kingstreetcats.org email: contact@kingstreetcats.org King Street Cats is looking for foster homes! You provide the spare room and TLC and we provide food, litter and all vetting. Please email for our Kitten Fostering FAQ at: contact@kingstreetcats.org KING STREET CATS 25 Dove Street Alexandria, VA 22314 Every Saturday & Sunday 1:30 - 4:30 pm PRO FEED Bradlee Shopping Center 3690 King Street Alexandria, VA 22302 Every Saturday & Sunday 1:00 - 4:00 pm PETCO UNLEASHED AT PENTAGON ROW 1101 S. Joyce Street Arlington, VA 22202 Saturday, July 2 Saturday, July 16 Sunday, July 17 1:00 - 4:00 pm PETCO UNLEASHED 283 S. Van Dorn Street Alexandria, VA 22304 Saturday, July 30 1:00 - 4:00 pm THE DOG PARK 705 King Street Alexandria, VA 22314 Saturday, July 9 1:00 - 4:00 pm

16 | July 2016

T

he summer season is finally upon us! The curtain has closed on the blues of winter and the sun has taken center stage. The days have grown longer, warmer, and are filled with adventure. As we soak up the summer sun, there are a few considerations we can keep in mind to ensure that our pets also enjoy a happy and healthy summer season.

When we think of the summer we think of the heat. As the summer sun intensifies, safely combatting the heat becomes a primary concern. Just as we find it necessary to seek relief from the summer heat, so too do our furry friends.

The Humane Society provides several recommendations for keeping pets cool and comfortable as the temperature rises.

First and foremost, make sure your pets always have access to fresh water and shade. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining a safe body temperature, especially during months with high temperatures. Pets should never be left in parked cars, as temperatures can quickly become dangerous, and they should always have access to shaded spaces with unobstructed airflow when spending time outdoors. High levels of humidity can make it very difficult for animals to cool themselves down, so it is important to be mindful of humidity levels and limit your pet’s exercise on particularly warm or humid days. It is important that we educate ourselves about the symptoms of heat-induced illness so we can effectively protect our pets. Common symptoms of heatstroke, as well as effective intervention strategies if your pet is overheating, can be found on the Humane Society’s website (www. humanesociety.org/animals/resources/ tips/pets_safe_heat_wave.html).

Another consideration for summer safety is protection from those pesky pests, which seems to endlessly multiply as the months heat up. Summer is the perfect time for adventure and many of us enjoy including our beloved pets on our excursions. If your pet will be taking to the great outdoors for summer adventures, take steps to ensure that they will be protected from the potential harms of contact with pesky pests like fleas, ticks, and mosquitos. Prevention should always be our first priority and there are many options available to pet parents. If you’re not sure which method

Summer Safety & Your Pets of prevention is the best fit for you and your pet, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss your options and identify a strategy that will ensure a happy and healthy summer season for all.

Gatherings with friends and family are a staple of the summer season. Summer festivities are a great time to relax and create memories with our loved ones, but it is important that we remain mindful of the unique set of circumstances these festivities present for our pets.

The highlight of many summer gatherings is the food. The spoils of cookouts and potlucks are a welcome temptation for our hungry guests, but they can also peak the interest of our pets. If left unattended, buffet tables and guests’ plates may prove to be an irresistible temptation for curious pets. While some foods are safe to share with our beloved pets, others can be quite dangerous when consumed by them. It is important to know which foods are toxic for our pets, in the event that they decide to sneak a snack at the next

cookout. Lists of common food hazards for our pets can be found on the Humane Society’s website (www.humanesociety. org/animals/resources/tips/foods_ poisonous_to_pets.html) and on the ASPCA’s website (www.aspca.org/petcare/animal-poison-control/people-foodsavoid-feeding-your-pets). These lists are informative but they are not all-inclusive.

If you have any concerns regarding the health of your pet, immediately contact your veterinarian.

Ensure that your guests are familiarized with the number of pets who share your residence, as well as their individual personalities. It is also a good idea to familiarize your guests with policies in your home, such as securely latching doors when entering and exiting, to ensure that the possibility for pets to escape is limited. Pets should always be provided with a quiet place to escape the excitement of large gatherings, as the noise and commotion may become overwhelming for them. This is especially

Old Town Crier

THE LAST WORD FROM PAGE 13

addition of Joe Rantz in his varsity line-up at the last hour, everything clicked. Joe was with friendly boys he had trained with most, boys he could trust if he could trust anyone, and all of the sudden the boat’s dynamic changed. With the addition of Rantz, the shell comprising eight individuals became a perfect unit on the river, blowing past the competition in West Coast races, the East Coast national races in Poughkeepsie, NY against the Eastern elites, and finally, the Olympic trials. They had ultimate “swing,” even while maintaining slower paces until they needed to ramp up their speed.

At that point, reporters realized that here was a team that could make it all the way, even in the highest trial of sportsmanship ever created. The boat comprised Roger Morris, bow; Chuck Day, number two; Gordy Adams, number three; Johnny White, number four; Stub McMillin, number five; Shorty Hunt, number six; Joe Rantz, number seven; Don Hume, stroke; and the crafty, cold-blooded Bobby Moch as coxswain. The latter would direct the stroke, communicating the level of rowing necessary for the boat.

While talking about the Washington rowing crew and Joe, Brown flips back and forth between the events that were happening in Seattle and Hitler’s concurrent preparations to present a non-threatening image of Germany to the world while re-arming for war and planning to create an imperial Third Reich. With the help of Joseph Goebbel’s brilliant propaganda and Leni Riefenstahl’s well-crafted artistic propaganda films, POINTS ON PETS FROM PAGE 16

important as we approach the 4th of July. Many Independence Day celebrations conclude with an awe-inspiring fireworks display, but it important to keep in mind that the sights and sounds of fireworks can be extremely frightening for our pets. According to the ASPCA, 1 in 5 lost pets go missing when

Hitler’s scrubbed-clean theatrical backdrop of grandiose sports arenas and friendly Olympic villages covered his brutal agenda against Jews and other minorities. The boys, eventually housed in an idyllic German village near Lake Grünau, were oblivious to anything out of the ordinary.

In Berlin, Don Hume had a cold that had lingered, perhaps developing into a severe case of walking pneumonia or bronchitis. When the boys gathered together to bond and plan strategy, they could not imagine rowing without him. He was essential for the chemistry of the boat. They told Coach Al Ulbrickson that no substitute could take his place.

They were such a cohesive team that they offered to carry his limp form through the race if necessary.

The end of this story is very suspenseful, regardless of anyone’s knowledge of the boys’ results.

Brown presents a nail-biter and a shining moment that lifted the spirits of those suffering from the Great Depression, those who had suffered the Great Dust Bowl and were traveling west for work, and anyone who supported American sports. He also contrasts the events in Washington and Germany with the Great Depression and hard times that caused the boys to take second jobs while rowing and in school, giving a nuanced context of the situations in which the boys found rowing as their purpose and release. Rowing was second only to track and field as the favorite sport in the Olympics.

These outdoorsy Western boys were heroes across recovering America and particularly in their home town of Seattle, which listened to their exploits

avidly on the radio. They had given Seattle status.

While The Boys in the Boat shares some qualities with the stellar and beautifully written Unbroken

by Laura Hillenbrand, the overlap is the innate determination that Louis Zamperini showed at the 1936 Olympics during the Depression. Zamperini’s innate determination that helped him qualify got him publicity but also sustained him through his terrible ordeal during World War II. That book is a slightly faster read, since it has less preliminary detail. Yet this book is also suitable for beach reading and needs the biographical elements that Brown presents. His clear writing skims by and conveys a lovely message of unity that resonates in our atomized era.

In the end the words that come to mind are chemistry, alchemy, and synchronicity. Eight boys with individual strengths and imperfections had a common desire to prove themselves and support each other. A canny, intuitive coach recognized their mutual trust and respect, selecting them for varsity and the Olympic trials. They rowed in a beautiful, perfectly made boat, and turned what seemed like lead into gold in the Olympic Games. Their short sharp burst of glory revealed them as a glorious, shining whole for one perfect moment. Lastly, their win was also an act of defiance and a display of American values presented to Hitler, who refused to acknowledge the wins of non-German athletes at the games. The Boys in the Boat is a legendary sports tale, and a monument to the American twentiethcentury trope that tenacity and hard work will help anyone achieve their goals.

they are scared by loud noises, such as fireworks and thunderstorms (http://www.aspca.org/news/ fourth-july-celebrate-pet-safety), so it is important that we revisit pet identification strategies, such as identification tags and micro-chipping. These are invaluable resources for reuniting families with lost loved ones.

School may be out for the summer, but with a

little bit of education and a few simple steps, we can ensure that our beloved pets enjoy a happy and healthy summer season!

Sarah Webber Liu resides in Alexandria and is a longtime volunteer at King Street Cats. She is devoted to her cat, Mrs. Huggins, and loves animals of all kinds.

PETS OF THE MONTH

FRAZIER (A067039)

RILEY (A067573)

JULIA RABITS (A066868)

Frazier, a neutered male boxer, will surely cure your blues this summer! He is estimated to be about seven years old. He loves giving big, sloppy kisses to his friends and is truly a lap-dog at heart. Frazier doesn’t technically have a PhD or a talk-show, but what’s better therapy than the unconditional love of a dog? We have learned that Frazier is reactive to other dogs and will need to be the only pet in his new home. If you think Frazier could be the one for you, he’s ready to leave the building with you today.

Ever wanted your very own Grumpy Cat?! Look at Riley’s ridiculously adorable scrunched face! Despite the sour look, Riley is as sweet as can be, and is looking for a forever family to give lots of love to! He is 10 years old, so is considered a senior here at the shelter, but don’t let him know that. He is one of the most active and playful cats in the adoption room, and will even play fetch with a mouse toy. If you are looking for a great cat with a fantastic purrsonality, Riley is definitely your guy!

Meet Julia Rabits – he catches the gaze of everyone’s eye, and it’s not hard to see why! On top of her large size and beautiful white fur, this spayed female bunny loves to greet all visitors at the AWLA. She is best known for standing on her hind legs against her cage, begging for affection.

She loves pets and human interaction, but tends to be super protective of her stuff, so might be best in an adult-only rabbit-experienced home. If you’d like to know more about Julia, stop by the shelter or give us a call!

The DC stands for Dog and Cat For more info: www.dcPawsRescue.org

CHANGE A LIFE.

ADOPT

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

July 2016 | 17

CARIBBEAN CONNECTION JEFFREY R. McCORD

I

Hamilton, the West Indian (Not the Musical)

f not for a hurricane that devastated St. Croix in 1772, Alexander Hamilton may never have moved to North America, never fought with Washington in the Revolutionary War and not served as America’s first Secretary of the Treasury. And, there would be no Tony-award winning musical based on this founding father’s life.

Fortunately for Broadway musicals, on August 31, 1772 a hurricane did strike the then Danish West Indian island of St. Croix where young, impoverished Alexander Hamilton spent his most formative years. The storm was biblical in strength. A journalist’s account, found by National Park Service historian William Cissel, described its impact on what is now the largest U.S. Virgin Island: “All the houses near shore were torn even to the foundations . . . The wall around the [Danish] King’s store house, which was above a yard thick, was tumbled down to the ground and hurled a hundred yards off . . . [The sea] swelled up to 70 feet above the usual height . . . In Christiansted, 460 houses were thrown down . . . All the ships were cast ashore, 50 or 100 yards [up] on the land.”

It was 16 year-old Hamilton’s story on this storm that caught the attention of the Danish Governor. He led the business community to raise money to send the prodigy to King’s College (now Columbia University) in New 18 | July 2016

Alexander Hamilton as a youth

York. In the Royal Danish American Gazette, Hamilton wrote: “It began about dusk from the North. . . and raged very violently till ten o’clock. Then ensued a sudden and unexpected interval, which lasted about an hour. Meanwhile the wind was shifting round to the South West point, from whence it returned with redoubled fury and continued so ’till near three o’clock in the morning. Good God! what horror and destruction . . . It seemed as if a total dissolution of nature was taking place.

The roaring of the sea and wind, fiery meteors flying about it in the air, the prodigious glare of almost perpetual lightning, the crash of the falling houses, and the ear-piercing shrieks of the distressed, were sufficient to strike astonishment into Angels. A great part of the buildings throughout the Island are leveled to the ground, almost all

the rest very much shattered; several persons killed and numbers utterly ruined; whole families running about the streets, unknowing where to find a place of shelter; the sick exposed to the keenness of water and air without a bed to lie upon, or a dry covering to their bodies.”

Hamilton’s erudite, compassionate account, and later brilliant career, belie his lowly beginnings. He was born in 1755 on the small British Caribbean island of Nevis. Rachel, his mother, had been divorced from an affluent St. Croix planter who alleged she was immoral and “whoring” and had her imprisoned in Fort Christiansvaern, which guarded Christiansted’s harbor.

She was expelled to Nevis where she became the common law wife of James Hamilton, Alexander’s father.

Although the son of a wealthy, Scottish aristocrat, James was a struggling, unsuccessful merchant.

When Alexander was eight or nine, James moved the family to the larger, more cosmopolitan St. Croix in an apparent move to improve his business. In 1765, however, James abandoned Rachel, sons Alexander and James, leaving the island to become a West Indian drifter. “My father’s affairs at a very early day went to wreck,” Alexander wrote years later.

To support her family, Rachel opened a shop in Christiansted in a two-story building at 34 Company Street one door down from the

wooden St. John’s Anglican Church, which was a center of the island’s British community at a time when the English outnumbered St. Croix’s Danish and Dutch planters and merchants. The 1772 hurricane destroyed the church, which was quickly rebuilt of stone and can be visited today.

Rachel and her boys lived above her store, which sold supplies to plantations she bought wholesale from her landlord Nicholas Cruger, a leading merchant. Their house was near a grove of trees serving as a Sunday market place where slaves, who had Sundays off, sold their own produce. “Birds and fowl, pigs, goats, tubers, beans, a wide variety of fruit and vegetables, and cassava bread,” were offered, historian Cissel tells us.

Young Hamilton’s close acquaintance with the enslaved and free blacks who, in British and Danish islands, often served as policemen and in local militia, may have informed his later opposition to slavery in the young United States. Despite slavery’s barbaric cruelties on Caribbean sugar plantations, the integration of West Indian whites and blacks in island communities was unusual within the Western world in those days. Indeed, Charles Dickens later published the history of a West Indian regiment of free blacks — some recruited from Nevis and the British Virgin Island of CARIBBEAN CONNECTION > PAGE 19

Old Town Crier

CARIBBEAN CONNECTION FROM PAGE 18

Tortola — that fought alongside Red Coats in Georgia and the Carolinas against Washington in the War of Independence.

In what could be a Dickens tale, three years after his father’s departure, Alexander and his mother caught yellow fever. Hamilton biographer Ron Chernow describes their medical treatment: “[They received] medieval purgatives so popular in eighteenth-century medicine.

Rachel had to endure an emetic and a medicinal herb called valerian, which expelled gas from the alimentary canal; Alexander submitted to bloodletting and an enema.

Mother and son must have been joined in a horrid scene of vomiting, flatulence, and defecation as they lay side by side in a feverish state in the single upstairs bed.”

Alexander survived both disease and treatment. Rachel died, leaving the boys orphans. Her landlord, Nicolas Cruger, took on 13-year old Alexander as an apprentice clerk, while the brother was apprenticed to a carpenter. Cruger and business partner David Beekman had an extensive general store, warehouse and a counting shop located at the corner of Kings and King’s Cross Streets in Christiansted where Alexander worked. The business also owned seven merchant ships.

Alexander quickly mastered mathematics, finance, insurance and other important skills working at Beekman and Cruger -- expertise he later used to establish the U.S. Treasury.

Hamilton had also benefited from his mother’s 34 books -- rare and expensive assets in the 18th century. Upon her death, however, the precious books and her other more meager

possessions were seized by her first husband’s family, leaving the boys destitute.

Of necessity, self-educated Alexander worked hard for Cruger. In spare time, he wrote poetry and, as he put it, “spun castles in the air.” Alexander, though, was frustrated, complaining to a friend of the “groveling condition of a Clerk to which my Fortune condemns me.”

Like so many other young men of his era, Hamilton saw the military as an escape. “What I need is a war,” he wrote.

Following the hurricane that improbably propelled him into pre-Revolutionary New York in 1773, Hamilton found his war and achieved fame and success.

Today in Christiansted, some of the 18th century buildings and sites associated with Hamilton ­— including the fort where Rachel was imprisoned — are protected within the Christiansted National Historic Site, part of the National Park Service. A Hamilton walking guide is available for interested visitors.

Jeffrey R. McCord is a free-lance journalist whose work on international economics and consumer protection has appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Gannett newspapers and Truthout.org, among other publications.

For more than 20 years, he’s called Northern Virginia his home. Jeff is the author of two fact-based Caribbean novels: “Undocumented Visitors in a Pirate Sea,” which was a quarterfinalist in the 2014 Amazon Breakthrough Novel contest; and, “Santa Anna’s Gold in a Pirate Sea,” a finalist in the 2016 Next Generation Indie Book contest. He now divides his time between Virginia and St. John, USVI.

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Old Town Crier

July 2016 | 19

ROAD TRIP BOB TAGERT

There’s No Place Like Home … For a Road Trip Up river from Georgetown

Mt. Vernon

20 | July 2016

O

ver the years we have taken many road trips for this article with some of them being a great distance. With nice weather finally and the beginning of summer, we decided to spotlight a few of our favorite places near Alexandria.

We will start off by heading south.

When was the last time you visited George Washington’s Mount Vernon?

Have you ever been? Although July is a huge tourist month and the crowds will be large, there is plenty of land to spread out. Mount Vernon is an iconic American landmark – an enduring reminder of the life and legacy of the

Father of Our Country, and today, these reminders are more important than ever. Once a vibrant plantation in the 18th century, the estate is now one of the nation’s most visited historic sites. Tour the mansion, out buildings housing trades of the day, gardens and landscapes, the tombs of George and Martha and much more. Be sure to visit the newly constructed boat shed where our friend Howell Crimm and his crew are building a replica boat Back down the GW Parkway towards Old Town you can find Belle Haven Marina and Dyke Marsh located on the west bank of the Potomac River. Dyke Marsh consists of about 380 acres of tidal marsh, floodplain, and swamp forest. Formed

5,000 to 7,000 years ago, Dyke Marsh is one of the largest remaining pieces of freshwater tidal wetlands left in the Baltimore-Washington Metro area.

The marsh contains a wide array of plant and animal life. “Haul Road” is a trail that leads visitors into the marsh.

Here the fresh water of the upper Potomac mixes with the salt water for the lower Potomac. The fresh water tends to float above the tidal salt water producing a tidal freshwater marsh.

You can also rent a kayak or canoe at Belle Haven Marina and do a lazy float on the river along the banks of the marsh.

Belle Haven Marina is truly one of the hidden secrets of Alexandria.

This is a quaint, scenic marina that

Theodore Roosevelt Island

Old Town Crier

Rental Kayaks and Flying Scots at Belle Haven Marina

has become an oasis for boaters in the area. The marina offers canoe and kayak rentals, Sunfish and Flying Scot sailboats for rent. If the mood strikes you, they offer the best sailing instructors around for your first lesson…it won’t be your last.

Going west you can cross over the Woodrow Wilson bridge and visit National Harbor and the future home of the new MGM Casino and Hotel. The casino is not completed yet, but plans to open in November.

No worries, there are still great paces to eat, the Capital Observation Wheel for a birds eye view of the area. In the cove they offer paddle- boat rentals as well as a pirate ship for kids of all ages.

The ship is attacked while at sea and the kids (of all ages) get to fire water cannons upon the marauders.

There is also a water taxi that runs from the Alexandria waterfront to National Harbor and is a very convenient and scenic way to get to the Harbor and back. Potomac Riverboat Company also offers a round trip narrated monument tour to Georgetown and new this year, round trip transportation via the water to National Mall in Washington.

Heading farther west on I-95 and then taking Route 50 east you can visit Annapolis, the capital of Maryland.

Like Old Town, Annapolis is a seafaring town where old warehouses have been converted to beautiful restaurants and shops. Besides visiting Ego Alley, the main waterfront, and taking it all in, you can also book a cruise on the Schooner Woodwind.

Sail the Chesapeake on a 74-foot

Sailing the Potomac at Belle Haven Marina

schooner! Raise the sails, man the helm, or sit back and relax on a twohour sail. If you are lucky, our friend Kevin Brooks and “The Eastport Oyster Boys” will be aboard offering their own brand of eastern shore music to lighten your load.

Annapolis is also the home of the U.S. Naval Academy…a very impressive place indeed. Tours are offered and it is worth it!

Heading up the G.W. Parkway north and right after passing Rosslyn, Virginia you will come to Roosevelt Island on the right. Park and cross the walking bridge to the island.

Even though you are on the Virginia side of the river, you are actually in Washington, D.C. When the District of Columbia was established, 1/3 of the land was donated by Virginia and 2/3 by Maryland. After 1632, Virginia’s boundary along the entire Potomac River was the rivers edge on the Virginia side, the “further Bank of the said River”, not the middle, which is common.

T.R Island is an 88.5 acre- island and a national memorial. The Theodore Roosevelt Association in memory of the 26th U.S. President gave the island to the American people. “In the 1930’s landscape architects transformed the island from neglected, overgrown farmland into Theodore Roosevelt Island, a memorial to America’s first conservationist. They conceived of a “real forest” designed to mimic the natural forest that once covered the island. Today miles of trails through wooded uplands and swampy bottomlands honor the

National Harbor's soon to be completed MGM Grand Casino

Old Town Crier

Two young sailors bringing in the Sunfish

legacy of a great outdoorsman and conservationist.”

From the east side of the river you can view the activity along the Georgetown waterfront. Looking upriver on the D.C. side you can see many canoes and kayaks lining the wharf at Fletcher’s Boat House. Today it is known as Fletcher’s Cove after being taken over by the National Park Service in 2004. After 145 years in business, the fourth generation of the Fletcher family retired in 2004 and Guest Services Incorporated, a National Park Service concessionaire, assumed responsibility for the operation of the concessions. I still call it Fletcher’s Boat House because I remember going there in my teens, some 54 years ago. Back then it was just the iconic gray and dark red rowboats that we would rent and row upstream toThree Sisters Island (three large rocks in the shallows). We were lucky if we had a date.

Today you can rent shinny new plastic canoes and kayaks and paddle about a half-mile upriver and you would be in the wilderness right in the middle of the most powerful city on the planet. The fishing around Fletcher’s is great. It is the upper tidal limit for ocean-going fish like perch, white and hickory shad, herring, and striped bass, known through the Chesapeake region as Rockfish, all of which stack up here in the spring to spawn. It is also the lower limit for cold-water fish like small mouth bass, walleye, tiger muskies and some trout. There are also large numbers of largemouth bass (the Potomac is

the 10th largest bass fishery in the east),crappies, bluegill, catfish and carp in these waters. If the mood strikes, you can rent fishing gear at Fletcher’s.

If you want to get away from it all, take a drive to the Rockin S Ranch out side of Winchester, Virginia. Owner of the ranch, Bill Schwasta can provide a mount for you and your friends upon the perfect horse for a short ride in the country and across rivers or book a longer ride to the top of the local mountains. You may be in Virginia, but you will be hanging with a real cowboy!

If you head west you can explore and taste some of the wonderful wine that is made in Virginia. Of course, the first ones to start with are the ones who advertise with us. The closest ones are near Leesburg or Marshall Virginia. We have been writing about Virginia wines for over 27 years, and certainly in the past 12 to 15 years the wines of Virginia have improved remarkably. Take a lunch and enjoy a bottle of wine in some of the most scenic country in the east. The rolling hills of Virginia make for perfect hilltop viewing in the distance, or settle in by one of the many small streams that run through the valleys.

You can check out Virginia.org wine trails for the wineries that are in a particular region.

Summer is here and it is a good time to stay close to home. These are a few destinations that are close by and a lot of fun and full of history. Take a boat ride or ride a horse, it is a great time to explore what is in our own backyard.

Annapolis

July 2016 | 21

Happy Fourth of July!

While most Americans know that America.’s birthday is celebrated on July 4th, it’s a misconception that all the signers of the Declaration of Independence signed it on the Fourth of July. For more fun facts about America’s Independence Day, keep reading: 1. How many people signed the Declaration of Independence on July Fourth?

Two 2. What day did most signers of the Declaration of Independence actually sign the document?

Aug. 2, 1776 3. Which president was born on July 4?

Calvin Coolidge, the 30th president, in 1872.

4. Which three presidents died on the Fourth of July?

They were three of the first five presidents: John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe. The second president, Adams, and the third, Jefferson, both died in 1826, the 50th anniversary.

5. Most of the Founding Fathers agreed that July Fourth is the day to celebrate America’s independence from Great Britain, except one. Who is it and why?

Adams thought July 2, the day

22 | July 2016

the Second Continental Congress voted in Philadelphia to declare independence from Britain, would be the day patriots celebrated. “The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America,” Adams wrote on July 3. “It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”

6. When did the Fourth of July become a legal federal holiday?

1870. Then, in 1938, Congress reaffirmed the holiday to make sure all workers received full pay.

7. Is there something written on the back of the Declaration of Independence?

Yes! It’s said the following is written upside down and backwards: “Original Declaration of Independence dated 4th July 1776.”

It’s not known who wrote it, or when. In Revolutionary War years, parchment was rolled up, so this

probably served as a message.

8. The Nathan’s Fourth of July Hot Dog Contest has become an annual tradition. How did it start?

Legend has it that four immigrants got into an argument over who was most patriotic. To prove themselves, they ate as many hot dogs as they could handle — because nothing says America like excess!

9. America isn’t the only nation to celebrates the Fourth of July. Which other countries do, and why?

It might sound odd, but if you celebrate the Fourth of July outside the U.S., you still might see fireworks in Denmark, England, Norway, Portugal and Sweden. This is because thousands of people emigrated to the U.S. in the early 1900s. Some European celebrations on the Fourth take place near tourist destinations — to attract U.S. travelers — or near American military bases.

10. When were fireworks first used to celebrate July Fourth?

1777. Congress chose fireworks as a

way to celebrate the first anniversary.

They were ignited over Philadelphia.

The celebration also included bonfires and bells.

11. How many people lived in the U.S. when the Declaration was signed?

2.5 million 12. What baseball player threw a 4-0 no-hitter against the Boston Red Sox on July 4, 1983?

New York Yankees pitcher Dave Righetti. It was the first no-hitter in 27 years.

13. Which newspaper first printed the Declaration of Independence?

The Pennsylvania Evening Post 14. Which president first held a Fourth of July celebration at the White House?

Thomas Jefferson 15. Which country gained independence from the United States on July Fourth?

The Philippines did in 1946.

Old Town Crier

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large pool anD two restaurants on the property 14470 SOLOMONS ISLAND ROAD SOUTH 410-326-2424 STONEYSSEAFOODHOUSE.COM/THESTRIPEDROCK Hours: Mon-Thu 11 am-9 pm • Fri 11 am-10 pm Sat 8:30 am-10 pm • Sun 8:30 am-9 pm

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Enjoy the water all summer long!

Calvert Marine Museum Open Daily: 10am - 5 pm l l

Dee of St. Mary’s Sails

Lighthouse Adventure Cruises l

Historic Supper Cruises

www.calvertmarinemuseum.com Old Town Crier

July 2016 | 23

FROM THE BAY…

Panels created by community participants are stitched together as part of the public art project, Inflatable — Images & Inspiration, at Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center.

Artist in residence, Hannah Jeremiah, works on a small scale model for her Inflatable — Images & Inspiration public art project at Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center.

Annmarie Sculpture Garden Hosts Special Summer Art Project

BY JOANN FOLTZ

S

ummer is here and Annmarie Garden announces an exciting community art project entitled Inflatable — Images & Inspirations.

The project will continue throughout the summer and will be led by artist in residence, Hannah Jeremiah. Visitors are invited to participate in something bigger than themselves with the creation of this work of art that will inspire and delight.

The Public Art Project at Annmarie began in 2005 in an effort to engage the public and celebrate art and creativity. Hundreds of guests participate each year in projects such as the Wish Mandala, made of hundreds of wishing flags, designed to create harmony in the community and last year’s Modern Petroglyphics, a stone carving installation featuring drawings from the community.

Jeremiah is an artist who lives in Baltimore, Md. She was born in Arkansas and grew up in the Connecticut suburbs. There she developed a curiosity about overabundance, waste, and the unwanted — one earring in the stairwell, a pyramid of empty Snapple bottles, two leftover sleeves.

For Hannah, discarded objects act as catalysts for flexible sculptures, installations, and performances.

A graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art, she has exhibited work at Artscape, Maryland Art Place, and MICA’s Annual Benefit Fashion Show.

For the Inflatable project, she will sew together scraps to create an inflatable that interacts with the outdoor environment. Visitors can help this project come to life by drawing a picture or writing a message on pieces of scrap plastic and vinyl in the artLAB at Annmarie Garden. Inspiration can 24 | July 2016

come from what you are grateful for, a person who makes you happy, or something you love to do. “It’s great to see so many people contributing to this project already” says Hannah. “My goal is to have a structure large enough so everyone can walk inside to see their own artwork.”

Hannah will be in the artLAB most days between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm., so visitors can meet her, learn more about the project, and check on its progress. The

community is encouraged to visit anytime the Garden is open and come back as often as they would like to participate; and then join us at Artsfest September 1718 to see the finished installation.

Participation is included with the price of admission. Admission is free for members; $5 for adults; $4 for military; $3 for youth; free for children 5 & under. For additional information, visit www. annmariegarden.org or call 410-326-4640.

About Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center

An affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, Annmarie Garden is located in scenic Solomons, Maryland, on the Chesapeake Bay. The sculpture garden features a walking path that meanders through the forest past permanent and loaned sculpture, including more than 35 works of art on loan from the Smithsonian Institution and the National Gallery of Art. Annmarie Garden also presents a variety of award-winning special events, gallery shows, and engaging public art programs.

Annmarie Garden’s Studio School offers creative classes for all ages and abilities taught by a talented faculty. Annmarie Garden is conveniently located just off Route 2-4, on Dowell Road in Solomons, Maryland; open 9am-5pm daily; the Murray Arts Building and Gift Shop are open 10am-5pm daily. To learn more, visit www.annmariegarden.org.

Directions to Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center from Washington, DC

Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center’s artist in residence, Hannah Jeremiah

About a 60 minute drive: take Route 4 South to Capital Beltway Exit 11 (to Prince Frederick).

Continue on 4 South, following signs to Solomons.

Left on Dowell Road at Hilton Garden Inn. Annmarie is less than a quarter mile on the left.

Old Town Crier

The perfect place to spend the day!

NORTH BEACH OUTDOOR SCULPTURE COMPETITION & ART FESTIVAL July 23, 12 to 6 pm. Seeking artists! Prizes will be awarded!

WEDDINGS BY THE BAY Discover unique and charming waterfront venues for your wedding.

DRINKMARYLAND: NORTH BEACH (formerly called EAT, DRINK, GO LOCAL)

July 23, 12 to 6 pm.

The first of its kind, this premier local craft beverage event will feature local wine, cider, beer & spirits. Held in Southern MD, DrinkMaryland has an open air farmers market feel, welcoming people of all ages to celebrate all things made in Maryland!

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WELCOME CENTER/PIER 9023 Bay Ave 410.286.3799

For a complete list of special events: WWW.NORTHBEACHMD.ORG

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Old Town Crier

July 2016 | 25

…TO THE BLUE RIDGE JULIE REARDON

F

or the first time ever, the U.S. will host the best equestrians in the world at an FEI Nations Cup for the Olympic sport of three day eventing July 8 - 10, the Land Rover the Great Meadow International. And it’s right in Fauquier County, at Great Meadow in The Plains. A brand new, million-dollar arena has been constructed for this FEI Nations Cup, the first one ever held outside of Europe. FEI is the International Equestrian Federation, the international governing body for eventing and

Olympic Riders, Air Acrobatics, Outdoor Concerts & the County Fair other equestrian sports. Three day eventing is the most complete and rigorous equestrian discipline, originally developed as a means to train the complete cavalry horse and rider.

In fact, in its early days as an Olympic sport, three day event teams, including our own, were fielded from the military.

Today, horses and riders still compete in three different disciplines: dressage, which literally translated means training and is a series of precise tests on the flat; cross country jumping, a timed event of several miles length with usually 20 to 25 obstacles that the horse must jump, including ditches, banks and water; and finally stadium jumping, also a timed jumping event but held in an arena.

This last phase shows control and stamina 26 | July 2016

because having completed the exciting but often grueling cross country part, the horse and rider must then successfully negotiate a tight course of show jumps. These jumps, unlike the solid cross country obstacles, have flimsy rails and poles that are easily knocked down by a careless ride or tired horse, resulting in faults. At a Nations Cup, teams of horses and riders representing their country have their overall scores averaged together and gold, silver and bronze medals are awarded to the winning country’s teams; there are also medals for the top individual performers. This will be the last competition for our Olympic equestrian three day event team before they leave for the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil; you’ll also see Olympic hopefuls from several other countries competing. In addition to the Land Rover Great Meadow International, there will be other events and vendors; reportedly prime tickets are nearly sold out. General admission tickets begin at $30 per car, for ticket and admission information visitwww.

GreatMeadowInternational.com or call Great Meadow at (540) 253-5000.

Enjoying live music concerts outdoors during the lazy, hazy midsummer days close to home needn’t cost a king’s ransom. The Bluemont Concert series, committed to bringing quality music to rural locations for 40 years, charges a nominal donation of $5 per person ($4 for members) to attend any of their outdoor concerts in nearby small towns. One of the best kept secrets for rural residents in Northern and Central Virginia, the Bluemont Concert Series has been bringing live music and enriching the cultural fabric of small towns BLUE RIDGE > PAGE 27

Old Town Crier

BLUE RIDGE FROM PG 26

since 1976. Performances are held outdoors in Warrenton, Winchester, Middleburg, Leesburg, Culpeper, Fredericksburg, Ashland and Colonial Beach, and musicians include an eclectic and varied mix: bluegrass, zydeco, Caribbean, African dance, Celtic, traditional folk, rockabilly and more.

Bluegrass aficionados won’t want to miss legend and banjo virtuoso Bill Emerson & the Sweet Dixie band, playing in Middleburg July 23. Emerson, who’s been playing the banjo since 1957, was perhaps best known as the key member of the legendary Country Gentlemen group.

If you, your parents or grandparents love the World War II era sound of big band and swing, put July 23rd on your calendar for the Warrenton concert of the Silver Tones Swing Band. This group of local musicians started in a garage, debuting in October 2012 as a tribute to the music of World War II and has been entertaining audiences ever since. The band members are from Fauquier County and surrounding areas and based in Warrenton. The Silver Tones play the great music of the Big Band Era, featuring songs made famous by Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Harry James, Count Basie, and the Andrews Sisters.

Members of the Silver Tones include 17 instrumentalists, who put out a powerful sound and raise the energy level in every setting. The band has its very own Andrews Sisters trio, singing the great numbers performed by these ladies in the 1940s. Crowd favorites include Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree, Rum and CocaCola, and Apple Blossom Time, among many others. In addition to the vocal trio, the Silver Tones have great female and male soloists who bring to life songs originally sung

by Natalie Cole, Bette Midler, Dean Martin, and Rosemary

Clooney.

One fan had this to say about the band: “The Silver Tones’ renditions of big band-era songs bring back many good memories of my childhood when my parents played and danced to the sweet sounds of Glenn Miller, Artie Shaw, Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey, and the like.

And as for the Silver Tones vocalists, all I can say is ‘Wow’! Close your eyes and you’d swear that LaVerne, Maxene, and Patty [Andrews] had just stepped to the mike.”

Other featured groups that will play at various locations this summer in the Bluemont Concert Series include Virginia’s own Mary Ann Redmond Band, which plays a soulful mix of traditional and contemporary R&B and jazz; and the ever popular PanMasters Steel Orchestra, a Caribbean group originally from Trinidad and Tobago.

The group is locally well known in the D.C./Baltimore area and has been playing together since 1982; in fact there are children of the original members now in the group. All concerts start at 7:30; a complete schedule of performers and venues along with band bios is on www. bluemont.org.

The Flying Circus Airshow near Bealeton has delighted young and old alike with daring expert pilots performing stunts in vintage biplanes, vintage plane rides and hot air balloon rides for many years. A parachute jumper opens the show, a wingwalker hangs upside down from the biplane’s wing, and more. Bring the family and a picnic and enjoy the show; gates open every Sunday in July at 11 and the show starts at 2:30 p.m. The Flying Circus Airshow has been a major Southern Fauquier attraction for both locals and visitors.

It’s located at 5114 Ritchie Road (off Routes 17 & 644), Bealeton, and admission is $10 per adult (plane and hot

BEER. BED. BREAKFAST. VISIT THE BREWERY NEAR SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK AND STAY THE NIGHT

47 MAIN STREET • SPERRYVILLE, VIRGINIA 540.987.3383 • HOPKINSORDINARY.COM air balloon rides extra). For more information, call (540) 439-8661 or visit: www. flyingcircusairshow.com.

July also opens the country fair season, and the Fauquier County Fair will be held July 13 through Sunday the 16th.

In addition to the farm animal, poultry, horse and crafts exhibits, there are rides, contests, rodeos, camel and pony rides, and for the adult kids, a mechanical bull, plus live entertainment each night; CMA Entertainer of the Year Neal McCoy will be the featured concert on the final evening. Contests include hot dog, pizza and watermelon eating competitions, barnyard beauty pageants, lawn mower rodeos and races, frozen T shirt contests, and more— anyone can enter most of them. The fairgrounds are located at 6209 Old Auburn Road in Warrenton and this old fashioned fair is great entertainment, food and fun for the family.

Admission varies by day but generally $10 per adult days; $15 nights; children are less.

For a complete schedule of events, and additional information, visit www. fauquierfair.org.

Visit the scenic Blue Ridge …

Old Town Crier

July 2016 | 27

BEHIND THE BAR

Jon serves up a Pisco Sour — Peruvian brandy, egg white, fresh lime juice and simple syrup. John is behind the bar every day except Wednesdays and Thursdays and takes Sundays off during Redskins season.

JON WILCOX How did you get started in the bartending business?

I was in college and needed a flexible job that paid well. I started tending bar and absolutely loved it!

What is your biggest bartender pet peeve?

It’s a toss up: tapping your glass on the bar or snapping your fingers. Big no no’s if you want a drink!

What is the most clever line anyone has used to get you to give them a free drink?

Cleverest line … hmmm … a guy came into the bar one time and said he’d take pictures of me and put them in an Old Town magazine if I made 28 | July 2016

JON WILCOX IS BEHIND THE BAR AT THE WHARF 119 KING STREET OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA 703-836-2836 WHARFRESTAURANT.COM him a Pisco Sour. It worked! Sound familiar, Crier?!

What is the best/worst pick-up line you have ever heard at the bar?

They’re all bad! Be confident, be yourself, and go say, ‘Hi!’

Tell us an interesting encounter you have had with a customer(s).

Interesting encounters? It’s like Vegas: what happens at the bar, stays at the bar!

If you could sit down and have a drink with anyone in the world — past or present —who would that br?

Chris Farley. SNL. C’mon!

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

Old Town Crier

This is where your new favorite whiskey comes from.

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Old Town Crier

July 2016 | 29

DINING OUT BOBTAGERT

Cedar Knoll Restaurant An historic inn on the Potomac

T

he latest re-opening — December 2015 — of this iconic place was long overdue.

Brothers Andrew and Chris Holden, Charlie Blevins, and Neil Wadhwa now head up the new generation of culinary experts that have energized this prime spot. Cedar Knoll had been closed for a few years until recent renovations were made and a lease signed by this close-knit group of daring culinary artists. They definitely brought their unique talents to a one of a kind property.

Cedar Knoll is the perfect spot for a dining establishment looking west over the Potomac River and an absolutely fabulous spot for outdoor dining as the moon pops over the trees.

A bit of history: In 1760, George Washington purchased the property, becoming River Farm, the northernmost of the five farms that made up Washington’s 18th century estate. The building was originally opened as the Mount Vernon View Antique Shop and was first operated as an inn and restaurant in 1941.

Currently, there are three separate dining rooms at Cedar Knoll, and each room has a different feel. The Botanical Room is wrapped in windows and old scientific illustrations of plants and flowers. The Presidential

30 | July 2016

Room with lush curtains and dark wood, gives the room a 19th century parlor feel. Then there is the original part of the building, the Log Cabin, which has the most natural character, with logs and chinking, a huge stone fireplace, and our first president keeping watch over the room. And don’t forget about the aforementioned patio where full service dining is available!

After entering the front door, the first difficult choice you have to make is which of these entirely different rooms fits your fancy. The second difficult choice is what to order. This was the dilemma we faced on our recent visit. We chose the Botanical Room with its sweeping views of the Potomac River. After an appetite inspiring Vodka Gimlet we decided to let the kitchen make our minds up for us when it came to the food. We have dined and noshed at Cedar Knoll several times since the reopening and tend to order the same things so we decided to venture outside the box.

Chef Andrew did a great job.

The menu is seasonal and at the time of our visit, the Spring Menu, 3rd Edition, was in effect. The appetizers are plentiful and inspiring. The list begins with Fried Oysters Rockefeller.

DINING OUT > PAGE 31

Old Town Crier

Regulars Alex and Kelly Chapman celebrating their 8th anniversary.

DINING OUT FROM PAGE 30

They dust their local oysters in cornmeal, making them gluten free. Perched atop an oyster shell, accompanied by kale and Virginia country ham, the oysters are finished with a champagne froth. From there the choices continue with Two Way Duck, Lobster “Profiteroles”, Steamed Mussels, Arugula Salad and a wonderful Roasted Beet Salad.

Cedar Knoll offers three different types of local oysters including Alexandrian Bruce Woods’ Dragon Creek Sweet Cousins.

The “showcase” or entrée list includes Rainbow Trout, Picanha Steak, Boneless Lamb Rack, Jumbo Scallops and Lobster, Scallopini of Chicken, Singapore Style Maryland Soft Shells, Almond Crusted Pork Tenderloin, and Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes.

Each night the restaurant also offers specials. On this night the chef picked the Fried Pork ’n Peach appetizer and the Watermelon Gazpacho, both of which were on the special menu. Per the menu, ”Our braised pork belly is fried and paired with a charred Saturn peach. A sweet and sour slaw, coriander black pepper honey and a sesame cracker give the dish proper support.” I love bacon but have had a hard time wrapping my head around pork belly. This had more pork and less belly and was fried just right and the slaw set it up very well.

Like the pork belly, I am not usually a fan of cold soup. Just something about my southern upbringing that mandates soup be hot! However, I have to admit I did like the few spoonfuls of the gazpacho I had. My companion loved it, but then again she is a gazpacho fan, and claims to be sort of expert on this dish.

“Fresh English cucumber, watermelon, tomato and canteloupe are blended to create this refreshing chilled

Old Town Crier

soup. Garnished with the mango salsa and cured lime, the flavors of jalapeno and mint are present.” According to her, this is spot on! The combination of these fruits and the cucumber, jalapeno and mint make for a tasty new twist of a summertime favorite.

For dinner we shared the Panamanian Lane Snapper off of the regular menu and the Taro Root Encrusted Atlantic Halibut off of the

specials. Lane snapper is native to the western Atlantic Ocean from North Carolina to southern Brazil. The menu describes this dish as “ … a beautiful specimen with silvery pink skin that is prized for its tasty white meat. We pan sear it and serve it with garlic lime grilled jumbo shrimp. A white wine, lemon, and tomato stew, baby red bliss potatoes, and sautéed okra provided a supportive background for the main attraction.” Served in a tureen-style dish, this offering lived up to the description with the perfectly cooked al dente okra adding a kick.

The halibut is “Pan seared day boat halibut caught off Martha’s Vineyard near Nantucket Island, crusted with shredded taro root and seared to give it a crispy exterior while locking in juices and flavor. To give it a warm weather flair, we serve it over chilled melon puree and a grilled red onion and sugar snap pea salad with goat cheese and cucumber.”

We all know that halibut

can tend to be a little on the dry side if overcooked even slightly; however, the taro root crusting did just as described and kept this nice piece of fish moist and flavorful. It is a great combination and my companion’s only suggestion is that the snap peas needed to be blanched a bit longer.

The portions are substantial so we ended up bringing some halibut home.

Dessert was a nice surprise as well. The Blackberry Lemon Pop Tart, “a bright lemon custard fills a light sugary, buttery crust and is accompanied by fresh blackberries and merengue,” was a refreshing end to the meal. We are both big fans of lemon merengue pie and the tart took us both back to the flavor of our childhood. Oher options on the dessert menu include Chocolate Rosemary Souffle Cake, Lemon Ginger Semolina Cake and an Unbaked Cheesecake with Port Cherries (I think the next time I am there I am going to sample this).

Cedar Knoll also has a nice wine list and craft beer list that offers something for everyone.

Our favorite thing about it is that it isn’t overwhelming and the price points are reasonable. Everyone who reads the Old Town Crier on a regular basis know that we are big supporters of Virginia wines. We were happy to see that Three Fox, Barboursville and Linden are represented here. There is a small full service bar that serves as a great place to wait for your table as well as enjoy a few “happy hour” beverages after a long day.

Another thing that sets Cedar Knoll apart from most dining establishments is the dinnerware. They have collected several different patterns of vintage china — including the serving pieces — from various sources throughout the area. In fact, the tureen that the snapper

was served in was donated by our very own Martha Washington from Mount Vernon — the reenactor, that is! This makes for a very pretty table setting and good conversation. It was entertaining to watch the ladies checking out the bottoms of the dishes.

The clientele at Cedar Knoll runs the gamut; however, it really isn’t a place we would take young children. This is both a restaurant that you can make your own as a regular in addition to celebrating a special occasion. We were

fortunate enough to share the Botanical Room with new regulars, Alex and Kelly Chapman, while they were celebrating their 8th anniversary.

Conveniently Located off the George Washington Parkway and the Mount Vernon bike trail on Lucia Lane, getting to Cedar Knoll is a pleasant excursion. Put this restaurant on your list of summertime must-dos!

See Cedar Knoll’s ad on the back cover for hours of operation and contact information.

“The Finest Lebanese Cuisine” –Washington Post, 2001 Family Owned & Operated Come and Enjoy a Cozy Candlelit Dinner Carry-Out Available • Free Delivery Open 7 Days for Lunch & Dinner

719 King St. Old Town Alexandria 703.684.9194 • thepitahouse.com

July 2016 | 31

Dining Guide AMERICAN ASHAR RESTAURANT AND BAR 116 South Alfred St. 703-894-6356 BILBO BAGGINS 208 Queen St. 703-683-0300 BITTERSWEET 823 King St. 703-549-2708 BLACKWALL HITCH 5 Cameron St. 571-982-3577 CARLYLE CLUB 411 John Carlyle St. 703-549-8957 CHADWICKS 203 Strand St. 703-836-4442 chadwicksrestaurants.com An Old Town tradition since 1979 and an original Georgetown pub and restaurant since 1967.

CHART HOUSE One Cameron St. 703-684-5080 CITY KITCHEN 330 South Pickett St. 703-685-9172 fatcitykitchen.com USA City inspired menu choices that bring together traditional American and global cuisine with their own personal touch. Casual dress. $30 and under. Lots of free parking. Open 7 days a week with brunch on Sat & Sun 11-3.

AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa COLUMBIA FIREHOUSE 109 S. St. Asaph St. 703-683-1776 EVENING STAR CAFÉ 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-549-5051 FIN & HOOF 801 N. Saint Asaph St. 703-836-4700 FIRE FLIES 1501 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-548-7200 FOSTERS GRILLE 2004 Eisenhower Ave. 703-725-1342 GADSBYS TAVERN 138 N. Royal St. 703-548-1288 HARD TIMES CAFE 1404 King St. 703-837-0050 HUNTING CREEK STATION 1106 King St. 703-836-5126

32 | July 2016

RAILSTOP GASTROPUB 901 N. Fairfax St. 703-683-8793

MAI THAI 9 King St. 703-548-0600

JACKS PLACE 222 North Lee St. 703-684-0372

RAMPARTS 1700 Fern St. 703-998-6616 rampartstavern.com

RED MEI 602 King St. 703-837-0094

JACKSON 20 480 King St. 703-842-2790

REYNOLDS STREET CAFÉ 34 S. Reynolds St. 703-751-0830

JOE THEISMANNS 1800 Diagonal Rd. 703-739-0777

RIVER BEND BISTRO 7966 Fort Hunt Rd. Hollin Hall Shopping Center 703-347-7545 riverbendbistro.com

INDIGO LANDING #1 Marina Dr. Washington Sailing Marina 703-548-0001

KING STREET BLUES 112 N. St. Asaph St. 703-836-8800 LAPORTAS 1600 Duke St. 703-683-6313

ROCK IT GRILL 1319 King St. 703-739-2274

LOST DOG CAFE 808 North Henry St. 571-970-6511 MACKIE’S BAR AND GRILL 907 King St. 703-684-3288

SHOOTER MCGEES 5239 Duke St. 703-751-9266

MAGNOLIA’S ON KING 703 King St. 703-838-9090

SOCIETY FAIR 277 S. Washington St. 703-683-3247

MAJESTIC CAFÉ 911 King St. 703-837-9117

SONOMA CELLAR 207 King St. 703-966-3550

MASON SOCIAL 728 Henry Street Old Town Alexandria 703-548-8800 mason-social.com

SOUTHSIDE 815 815 S. Washington St. 703-836-6222

MURPHYS IRISH PUB 713 King St. 703-548-1717 murphyspub.com Old-world Irish pub featuring a roaring fireplace, serving a variety of imported, domestic and non-alcoholic beers in a friendly atmosphere. Serving robust American-Irish meals at fair prices.

Favorites include fish and chips and Irish stew. Irish-style entertainment nightly.

NICKELLS AND SCHIFFLER 1028 King St. 703-684-5922 NINAS DANDY Potomac Party Cruises Zero Prince St. 703-683-6076 dandydinnerboat.com OCONNELLS RESTAURANT & BAR 112 King St. 703-739-1124 danieloconnellsrestaurant.com OVERWOOD 220 North Lee St. 703-535-3340 PORK BARREL BBQ 2312 Mount Vernon Ave. 703-822-5699

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

SAMUEL BECKETTS IRISH GASTRO PUB 2800 S. Randolph St. Villages of Shirlington 703-379-0122

MOUNT VERNON INN Mount Vernon, Va 703-780-0011

STREETS MARKET AND CAFE 3108 Mt. Vernon Ave. 571-431-6810

T.J. STONES GRILL HOUSE & TAP ROOM 608 Montgomery St. 703-548-1004 tjstones.com American cuisine with libations from around the world. Bar specials Mon-Fri, 4-7 pm. Brunch served Sat & Sun. TRADEMARK 2800 Jamieson Ave. 703-253-8640 UNION STREET PUBLIC HOUSE 121 South Union St. 703-548-1785 unionstreetpublichouse.com Old Towns favorite neighborhood tap and grill. Distinct southern style menu, fine steaks, fresh seafood. Sunday brunch, private parties, happy hour.

VERMILLION 1120 King St. 703-684-9669

SANG JUN THAI 300 King Street 571-312-3377 KAI ZEN TAVERN 1901 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-836-1212 CONTINENTAL BRABO

by Robert Weidmaier 1600 King St. 703-894-3440

BUGSYS PIZZA RESTAURANT 111 King St. 703-683-0313 bugsyspizza.com FACCIA LUNA 823 S. Washington St. 703-838-5998 GERANIO RISTORANTE 722 King St. 703-548-0088 geranio.net Still Old Towns highest-rated Italian restaurant (Zagat). Discerning Old Towners flock here for refined cuisine in this comfortable, yet sophisticated restaurant.

With entrees from $14, there is no reason not to enjoy a selection from their Wine Spectator award-winning list, while being attended by the friendly staff of seasoned professionals. Reservations recommended and casual attire welcomed.

HANKS PASTA BAR 600 Montgomery Ave. 571-312-4117

CEDAR KNOLL INN GW Parkway at Lucia Ln. 703-799-1501

LANDINI BROTHERS 115 King St. 703-836-8404 landinibrothers.com Elegant, classical Italian cuisine served in a lovely historical setting. Fresh veal, homemade pastas, and fresh fish are some of the daily choices. An extensive list of wines and champagnes served in a sophisticated and friendly atmosphere.

RESTAURANT EVE 110 S. Pitt St. 703-706-0450 TEMPO 4231 Duke St. 703-370-7900 temporestaurant.com Northern Italian, French provincial and American cuisine featuring fresh seafood, meats and pasta served in a contemporary, romantic atmosphere.

FRENCH BASTILLE 606 N. Fayette St. 703-519-3776 bastillerestaurant.com LE REFUGE 127 N. Washington St. 703-548-4661

THE WAREHOUSE BAR & GRILL 214 King St. 703-683-6868

LA MADELEINE 500 King St. 703-729-2854

MALAYA 1019 King St. 703-519-3710

BERTUCCIS 725 King St. 703-548-8500

IL PORTO RESTAURANT 121 King St. 703-836-8833

VIRTUE GRAIN & FEED 106 South Union St. 571-970-3669

ASIAN

ITALIAN

BRABO TASTING ROOM 1600 King St. 703-894-5252

FONTAINES CAFFE & CREPERIE 119 S. Royal St. 703-535-8151

ASIAN BISTRO 809 King St. 703-836-1515

LA BERGERIE 218 N. Lee St. 703-683-1007 labergerie.com

TWO NINETEEN RESTAURANT 219 King St. 703-549-1141 YVES BISTRO 235 Swamp Fox Rd. (in Hoffman Ctr.) 703-329-1010

LENA’S WOOD-FIRED PIZZA & TAP 401 East Braddock Rd. 703-960-1086 PARADISO 124 King St. 703-683-5330 PINES OF FLORENCE 1300 King St. 703-549-1796 RED ROCKS FIREBRICK PIZZA 904 King St. 703-717-9873 TRATTORIA DA FRANCO 305 S. Washington St. 703-548-9338 MEDITERRANEAN CHICKPEA 529 East Howell Ave. 571-970-1006 LA TASCA 607 King St. 703-299-9810 “Spring into Spain and Feast Like a King.” Offering unlimited tapas at lunch and dinner. Choice of dessert included.

Lunch 11:30 am - 4:30 pm for $20.07; dinner 4:30 pm - close for $30.07. Eat a little, drink a little, have a lot of fun!

TAVERNA CRETEKOU 818 King St. 703-548-8688 tavernacretekou.com PITA HOUSE 719 King St. 703-684-9194 thepitahouse.com Family owned and operated; carry out available and free delivery.

DELIAS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 209 Swamp Fox Rd. Alexandria, VA 703-329-0006 BISTRO DU SOLEIL 1116 King St. 571-312-2754 SEAFOOD HANKS OYSTER BAR 1026 King St. 703-739-HANK RTS RESTAURANT 3804 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-684-6010 FISH MARKET-OLD TOWN 105 King St. 703-836-5676 fishmarketoldva.com Internationally known and locally owned! We serve shrimps, a few crabs, tall people and lots of nice people, too!

Live music and lively food!

ERNIES ORGINIAL CRABHOUSE 1743 King St. 703-836-0046 THE WHARF 119 King St. 703-836-2834 wharfrestaurant.com "Its All About the Seafood," traditional and creative coastal cuisine.

FISH MARKET-CLINTON 7611Old Branch Ave. Clinton, MD 301-599-7900 INDIAN BOMBAY CURRY COMPANY 2607 Mount Vernon Ave. 703-836-6363 DISHES OF INDIA 1510A Bellview Blvd.

703-660-6085 MEXICAN LATIN SOUTHWESTERN DON TACO TEQUILA BAR 808 King St. 703-988-3144 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) CASA FELIPE 835 N. Royal St. 703-535-7868

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G GERANIO RISTORANTE Redefining Italian Cuisine in Old Town Alexandria

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703-347-7545 RiverBendBistro.com

July 2016 | 33

CHEF’S SPECIAL CHESTER SIMPSON

When did you first become interested in cooking? Why did you decide to pursue a culinary career?

I first became interested in the preparation of sushi when I was 18.

My father grew up in Japan and I wanted to learn sushi because of the Japanese influence my father acquired there. I got a job in a sushi restaurant and the sushi chef — who was a good friend of mine ­— decided to teach me.

I thought it would be a great learning experience to be able to prepare sushi, which originated in Japan. It would be a great skill to take me many places.

Who have been the biggest inspirations for your career?

My biggest inspiration is and will always be my first boss and dear friend who taught me so well in sushi preparation.

What dish on the menu are you most curious to see how it’s received?

My biggest experiment on the current menu is our ceviche. While ceviche is a Latin American dish, I’ve added a Japanese twist. Citrus and chili spice and seaweed salad with fresh sashimi. I’m hoping everyone appreciates the cross cultures at work.

What do you do to ensure the quality of the food going out to customers is of a high quality?

Sushi preparation is serious business. I can’t cut corners and I can’t ever “take chances” with freshness and technique. I order the freshest seafood and know every origin of each type of seafood. My entire staff is trained to inspect and adhere to all health codes when handling the sushi meats. Skill and pride guarantee beautiful sushi dishes every time.

photo: ©2016 Chester Simpson

OH YOUNG OH YOUNG IS THE CHEF OF STREETS MARKET & CAFE 3108 MT. VERNON AVENUE ALEXANDRIA, VA 571-431-6810 STREETSMARKETCAFE.COM If any chef in the world could prepare you a meal, who would it, be?

Akira Back, the world renowned Korean chef! If I could impress him with my dishes I’d feel pretty damn good. Chef Back has been featured on NBC’s Today Show, Food Network’s The Best Thing I Ever Ate, The Cooking Channel’s United Tastes of America, and KBS’s Success Mentor in Korea.

What’s your guilty food pleasure?

My guilty food pleasure is my wife’s home cooking. I rarely make it home for dinner on time. I could take a month off and eat nonstop. She’s the best! (Don’t tell my Mom I said this).

If you would like to see your favorite chef featured here, send contact info to chester@chestersimpson.com.

left to right: Sushi and Sashimi Moriwase, Tuna Tataki, Ceviche, Korean Fried Chicken Combo, and Pork Ramen

34 | July 2016

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GRAB A BITE! CELEBRATE ALEXANDRIA’S 266 TH BIRTHDAY WITH US! STOP BY ON JULY 9 FOR AN EARLY DINNER BEFORE, OR AN AFTER THE FIREWORKS NIGHTCAP AND SOMETHING FROM OUR LATE NIGHT MENU

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July 2016 | 35

GRAPEVINE FRANK BRITT

HORTON VINEYARDS A MAJOR PLAYER IN VIRGINIA’S WINE INDUSTRY

S

ituated along the rolling hills of Orange County just west of Gordonsville, Horton Vineyards is one of the most innovative wineries in the country. Utilizing the latest viticultural techniques, owner Dennis Horton is charting a new generation of wines made from Viognier, the premier grape of France’s Rhone Valley, and other premium varieties from southern France, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Russia/ Georgia. He continues to explore new varietals to discover the best that Virginia viticulture can produce.

Horton Vineyards started in 1983 as a small winemaking venture with a small home vineyard in Madison County.

It did not take Horton long to realize that, although the Virginia summers were warm enough to ripen almost any grape variety, the humid conditions favored growing grapes with thicker skins and loose clusters. Thus began his search for varieties that would flourish in Virginia’s

36 | July 2016

climate and had the capacity to produce some of the finest wines of the world.

Initially, the search was concentrated on the warm growing regions of southern France, and before planting any additional grapes, Dennis Horton traveled to the Rhone Valley in France. In his research, one grape in particular seemed to keep

HORTON VINEYARDS 6399 Spotswood Trail Gordonsville, Virginia 22942 800-829-4633 hortonwine.com coming up as perfectViognier. It had a thick skin and loose clusters, perfect for the Virginia climate. The decision was made to plant Viognier, along with lesser amounts of Marsanne, Mourvedre, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and several other grape varieties like the native grape Norton. Dennis was intrigued by the idea of reviving this

historic grape which had almost died out during prohibition.

In 1988, Dennis and partner Joan Bieda acquired 55 acres to launch Horton Vineyards.

The first small crop was harvested in 1991 and made into wine at Montdomaine Cellars. Dennis took over management of Montdomaine Cellars, and produced Chardonnay and Cabernet under that label, in addition to his own line of Rhone Varieties.

Construction was started on a magnificent new stone winery in 1992, with stunning stone underground cellars, a wonderful vaulted ceiling tasting room and spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The following year saw the first crush at the new Horton Cellars and in 1994 additional acreage came into production with plantings of Bordeaux, Portuguese and Spanish varietals as well as additional varietals of the Rhone Valley. The national success of these wines has demonstrated that if the right Old Town Crier

HORTON VINEYARDS RECIPE

PAN SEARED SCALLOPS WITH WILTED SPINACH & ARUGULA pair with Horton Viognier or Petit Manseng INGREDIENTS

16 large sea scallops (about 1¼ pounds) Freshly ground black pepper 3 tablespoons olive oil A few minced garlic cloves

BOTETOURT COUNTY WINE TRAIL botetourtwinetrail.com The Wine Trail of Botetourt Country features three wineries in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

7 ounces baby spinach (about 10 cups) 7 ounces baby arugula (about 10 cups) ¼ teaspoon crushed red-pepper flakes

PROCESS

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Reduce heat to medium, and add remaining • Sprinkle scallops with 1 tsp. salt and some oil to skillet. pepper.

• Add garlic, and cook for 15 seconds.

• Heat 2 tablespoons oil in skillet.

• Add spinach, arugula, red-pepper flakes, • Arrange scallops in skillet, and cook until and remaining ½ tsp. salt and ⅛ tsp. pepper.

Cook until just wilted, about 2 minutes. golden brown.

• Transfer to a platter, top with scallops, and serve immediately.

• Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. grapes are planted for the climate of Virginia, the results can be stunning.

Horton consistently wins medals in national and international competitions.

Their 2014 Petit Manseng was recently awarded a Gold in the 2016 Virginia Governor’s Cup. The winery produces over 30 different wines including Viognier, Eclipse, Mourvedre, Ivy Creek Chardonnay, Dionysus, Cabernet Franc

plus fruit wines including Peach, Pear, Blackberry, Blueberry and more, as well as the only Vintage Port made in Virginia.

The Tasting Room at Horton Vineyards is the place to explore these distinctive wines. It is open seven days a week from 10 am to 5 pm. You’ll be welcomed by a friendly staff extremely knowledgeable about the wine. It is suggested you call

ahead for in-depth tours.

Frank Britt is publisher of the Official Virginia Wine Lover, an online publication that promotes the Virginia wine industry. He was the cofounder of Virginia Wine Lover Magazine and consults with a number of wine festivals.

Britt can be reached at frank@ brittmarketing.com

VISITING VIRGINIA’S WINE COUNTRY

It’s always a good idea to call before visiting. Many Virginia wineries are small, familyowned operations and may be closed during the time you are planning to visit. If you are a group of eight or more, call ahead to help the winery prepare for your visit and to make sure they can accept groups. Most of our wineries have grape cluster highway signs within a ten-mile radius pointing the way to the winery. Many of these signs also tell you how many miles to go before reaching the winery.

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BEDFORD COUNTY WINE TRAIL bedfordwinetrail.com The Bedford Wine Trail in the Central Virginia region includes five vineyards and wineries surrounding Bedford.

BLUE RIDGE WINE WAY www.blueridgewineway.com The Blue Ridge Wine Way features eight wineries and vineyards in the spectacular mountains of the Northern Virginia region.

1½ teaspoons salt

• Flip, and cook until scallops are opaque, 30 to 45 seconds.

VIRGINIA WINE TRAIL PROFILES

EASTERN SHORE WINE TRAIL esvatourism.org The Eastern Shore of Virginia Wine Trail hosts three wineries along the Land Between Two Waters. This area is a unique rural coastal environment. Hundreds of miles of Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay shoreline provide a wealth of recreational opportunities for beach-lovers, fishermen, and boaters in addition to wine lovers.

FAUQUIER COUNTY WINE TRAIL fauquiertourism.com/wineries.html Fauquier County is home to 16 wineries and vineyards —each with its own unique flavors. Enjoy awardwinning Virginia wines, wine tastings and tours.

SHENANDOAH VALLEY WINE TRAIL svwga.org The Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail is an association of six vineyards and wineries.

LOUDOUN WINE TRAIL visitloudoun.org Loudouns Wine Trail in Northern Virginia takes you through Virginias hunt country to 23 participating wineries.

CHESAPEAKE BAY WINE TRAIL chesapeakebaywinetrail.com The Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail, in the Chesapeake Bay region, highlights six different wineries.

HEART OF VIRGINIA WINE TRAIL www.hovawinetrail.com The Heart of Virginia Wine Trail in Central Virginia presents several events throughout the year at four wineries located in the central region of the state.

BLUE RIDGE WINE TRAIL blueridgewinetrail.com The Blue Ridge Wine Trail features five wineries and vineyards in the spectacular mountains all within minutes of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

GENERALS WINE & HISTORY TRAIL thegeneralswinetrail.com In 2009, 10 wineries banded together to form a new type wine trail experience. The new wine trail experience was to tie our rich wine heritage with our rich historical heritage and thus the Generals Wine & History Trail was born.

MONTICELLO WINE TRAIL monticellowinetrail.com The Monticello Wine Trail leads to 24 wineries from its hub in Charlottesville.

Source: Virginia Wine Marketing Office

July 2016 | 37

EXPLORING VIRGINIAWINES DOUG FABBIOLI

Collaboration

O

ver the years, I have recognized that working with others has numerous benefits.

For best results, it is important to make sure you are working with others that understand how to cooperate and collaborate as well as manage your expectations

of the results. If you are volunteering on a benevolent effort, like a soup kitchen or a church project, it is assumed that the volunteers are there to help others and can take direction to achieve the goal.

But in business, collaborating with others can get confusing for some. Everyone should

benefit in a collaborative effort, but nothing says that the benefits will be equal.

A good business collaborator will gather together other progressive business owners to work on a larger project that can benefit all. Usually it is a marketing effort and sometimes it is a political effort

to protect the local lands or a business practice. Whatever the reason, to gather these business people together, they need to look at each other’s needs and goals. By being a bit more of a giver than a taker, so much more can be accomplished. This translates into politicians on all levels

the fall. We at the winery are looking to help our customers with young children to get the most from their visit with us without sacrificing the focus on our wines. Stay tuned for how our efforts turn out.

I also believe that good collaborators share their successes and challenges with

as well, but I am not going to dive into that realm! The big thing is that there is no hidden agenda. The authenticity of the players shines through with each move as long as one is looking.

I have been working with our county’s rural economic development team for over 12 years now. There are many different business sectors as well as conservation agencies and government agencies.

We all agree that keeping the land open and conducive to farming will benefit all.

There are lots of issues that go along with this fundamental premise but as each of us in the group see the bigger picture, our businesses and organizations gain from the group’s efforts.

Our winery has Temple Hall Farm Park next to us on our country road. We are working with them to develop a plan to help us both. The park wants more people to be aware of them and what they offer in

others in order to make good models for other folks. Each effort that we have should have some lessons for others to gain from in order for them to solve their challenges.

Solid collaboration takes vision to see other people’s needs. You need to be a “giver” of time and energy recognizing that this sets a leadership example. It also takes patience as getting everyone on the same page will take some time.

Remember that all boats lift in a rising tide, and in many parts of the world, we have some ability to adjust the tides. We just need to learn how to work together.

n THREE FOX VINEYARDS JULY EVENTS n

n 1-4: CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE! Picnic and enjoy our award-winning wines. Live music Saturday, paellas Sunday n n 9: THE PALIO! Recreation of the Palio di Siena, Three Fox-style. Be part of the race n 10: YOGA AT THE VINEYARD n n 15-17: THE INN AT VINEYARD CROSSING WINE CAMP TOUR n 16: LIVE MUSIC, MOVIN’ ON n 23: LIVE MUSIC, RICHARD GIERSCH n n 24: SERMONS FROM THE VINES n 29: NATIONAL SPORTING LIBRARY AND MUSEUM OPEN LATE CONCERT n n 30: LIVE MUSIC, MOVIN’ ON n 31: RACE THROUGH TUSCANY-IN VIRGINIA n

Tasting Room Hours - Open Year Round Thursday-Saturday, & Monday 11-5 pm • Sunday 12 pm (noon)- 5 pm

Mention or bring this ad for a complimentary tasting for two through 12/23/2010 10100 Three Fox Ln. • Delaplane, VA • 540-364-6073

A small, family winery focused on quality, sustainable farming and our community Visit us and other quality wineries on the Loudoun Wine Trail–www.loudounfarms.org Serving your local red wine needs since 2006 Open Daily 11am - 5pm Educational wine events

38 | July 2016

Fabbioli Cellars Douglas Fabbioli Colleen M. Berg 15669 Limestone School Rd Leesburg 703-771-1197 www.fabbioliwines.com

Doug is the proprietor and winemaker at Fabbioli Cellars in Loudoun County and has been penning this column for several years. He has been instrumental in the success of many of the Commonwealth’s vineyards and wineries.

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GO FISH STEVE CHACONAS

Up for Sail!

B

oat ownership got much better 50 years ago when Richard Schwartz founded BoatUS with a vision for better representation, safety and providing quality services at competitive prices. Today the range of boats covered has grown, including bass boats, and critical boating issues have expanded.

The impetus for starting the worlds’ largest boat owners association came when Schwartz launched on a friend’s new boat and was boarded by the Coast Guard. As his friend was cited for having faulty engine compartment ventilation, Schwartz learned manufacturers had no liability to build boats in compliance with government safety regulations. Finding no organization fighting for or representing boat owners, Princeton University and Yale Law graduate Schwartz set up the Boat Owners Association of the United States. In 1964, the BoatUS name was registered.

sharing recall information.

The wheels, or propellers, really began to turn when President Nixon signed the Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971, which Schwartz had a hand in writing, to provide the Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety the authority to regulate boat manufacturers to reduce recreational boating injuries and fatalities. The opening of

In 1966 the BoatUS launch brought the official informative newsletter and with a goal of 100,000 members, 1000 signed up. The start was slow and challenging. Boat manufacturers didn’t accept what was good for boat owners as Schwartz took to Capitol Hill to inform legislators of the unfair burdens placed on new

Bassing IN JULY POTOMAC RIVER

Summertime topwaters. Over matted grass, try Mann’s Goliath frogs on 60-pound GAMMA Torque braid. With more water, use Lucky Craft walkers like Gunfish and G-Splash poppers are perfect for clear and calm water with overcast skies! Walk the dog with the Gunfish and don’t stop when fish strike! For poppers, pop and stop, varying retrieves until a

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the first official BoatUS retail store and headquarters was in 1977 in Alexandria. By 2003 there were 62 BoatUS Marine Centers nationwide, including a wholesale division.

Money solves problems and so Schwartz worked on President Carter for two years to sign the Recreational GO FISH > PAGE 42

boat owners. In addition, insurance companies would also take exception as Schwartz began offering policies written in plain English, not gobbledygook forced on boaters.

In the 70s, the BoatUS Consumer Protection Bureau bridged the gap between boaters and builders to facilitate dispute resolutions, including

cadence produces. Also try Mann’s Waker over cover.

Mann’s Baby 1-Minus over grass and around wood will get bites most days, but when the sun comes out, try pitching Texas rigged Mizmo tubes on a 3/0 Mustad Mega Bite hook.

Try 14-16 GAMMA Edge fluorocarbon line. Use scents like garlic Jack’s Juice Bait Spray.

Mann’s Reel N’ Shad is deadly this time of year. Also try swimming jigs like Mann’s Stone Jigs with a HardNose Reel ‘N’ Shad around cover. Beef up tackle for this technique.

Mann’s Classic ¼ ounce spinnerbaits with white skirts are effective around shallow cover. Try these and chatterbaits close to grass, wood and rock, bumping cover or snapping free from grass.

July 2016 | 39

FITNESS NICOLE FLANAGAN

Keeping Up the Motivation

N

ow that summer is in full swing and the days are getting hotter and longer it’s easier to find excuses not to exercise. For some people it’s an everyday battle just to get up and get to the gym, although I’m sure most of us find that once we walk through the door of the club it’s not all that bad. By the time the workout is done you feel like a different person than the one that rolled out of bed just over an hour ago.

Whether it’s working out before the sun comes up or taking a 20 minute power walk to break up the busy work day here a few easy ways to keep up the good work this summer.

Work Out Early in the Morning

If you get up and go early

you will increase your chances of getting in a good workout.

At the beginning of the day we have the least amount of excuses for skipping a workout. If getting up early enough is the problem, try limiting your snooze to five minutes - this way you won’t fall back into a deep sleep.

Once you get into a routine of getting up and out early it will get easier. Not to mention you will get to work feeling more focused and energized.

Lift Before You Run

Instead of sitting on a cardio machine and sweating your calories away try doing a quick toning routine precardio. Strength training is something that demands a little bit more attention and skill than running on an elliptical so it works best to do these exercises first.

Finish Strong and Increase Your Metabolism After your toning routine, jump on the treadmill for

a high intensity cardio workout to finish up. High intensity exercise causes your metabolism to stay elevated several hours post workout.

So if you burned 300 calories during your session, you will burn another 50 or so calories while you shower and get dressed.

heels). This quick burst of power will activate muscles in your legs that usually remain inactive when you are sitting at your desk. Fast twitch muscles are used for quick bursts of speed; these muscles burn more calories than slow twitch muscles.

Power Walk to Beat the Midday Slump

You can have all the good intentions to make it to the gym and workout but if you forget a vital piece of equipment, such as gym sneakers, you spoil your plans completely. Lay your gym clothes out the night before. If you are a morning exerciser, put everything out so it’s ready as soon as you roll out of bed. If you prefer to work out after work, pack your gym bag and leave it next to your workbag.

As little as 20 minutes of low intensity cardio, such as walking, can give you a 20 percent increase in energy.

Many people seem to think that exercise will make you tired. In fact, the opposite is true. Certain chemicals in the brain are activated during exercise that can give you that boost you need to get through the rest of the afternoon.

Take the Steps Double Time

Set Up Your Gear

Next time you opt to take the stairs (which should be every time) take them two at a time (unless you are wearing 40 | July 2016

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FROM THE TRAINER RYAN UNVERZAGT

❶

The Barbell Lunge

W

elcome to another installment of From the Trainer.

July’s exercise of the month is the Barbell Lunge. This particular exercise challenges your balance, core, and leg strength. The starting position is shown in Figure 1.

The barbell will rest on the upper back as you take a long stride forward. Lower your body toward the floor by bending your front knee and hip to about 90 degrees. As this happens, shift your body weight to the front leg (Figure 2). Avoid leaning forward at the waist but make sure your knee stays over the toes and aligned with the front foot. Without pausing at the bottom, push forcefully up and backward. Body weight will then shift back to the “trail leg” to bring you back to start position. Try at least 10 reps on each leg.

Variations to this lunge include alternating legs on each repetition or stepping backward to perform a reverse lunge.

If you choose to reverse the lunge, make sure you shift your weight to the front leg first, and then step backward. Keep body weight on the front leg while the trail leg is used for balance.

Another variation is the walking lunge in which you keep moving forward with each lunge. You could also hold a pair of dumbbells at your sides instead of using the barbell on the upper back.

Either way you choose to do the lunge, it will provide the challenge and intensity you’ve been looking for! Until next month, enjoy the Barbell Lunge.

Unverzagt holds a BS in Wellness Management from Black Hills State University. He is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA), and a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

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❷

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July 2016 | 41

PERSONALITY PROFILE FROM PG 4

attorney who represented Mildred Loving, a black woman, and Richard Loving, a white man, who had been sentenced to a year in prison in Virginia for marrying each other. In the landmark case Loving v Virginia, the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated laws prohibiting interracial marriage. These young attorneys were off and running and making a name for themselves.

When the three amigos decided it was time to hoist a shingle, John and Phil shared a space, which lasted for 15 years. They began a career of defending the underdog like the Hunt brothers and H. Rap Brown. The Hunt brothers, Nelson Bunker, William Herbert and Lamar were the defendants in a 150 million lawsuit accusing the Hunts of engaging in an elaborate scheme in 1979 and 1980 to manipulate silver prices.

Zwerling also represented Jamil Abdullah Al-Amin, aka H. Rap Brown, who was chairman of the Student Nonviolence Coordinating Committee in the 1960’s and

during a short-lived alliance between SNCC and the Black Panther Part, where he served as their minister of justice.

In his defense Zwerling told the prosecuting attorney that Brown couldn’t get a fair trail at this venue. “Why,” asked the prosecutor? “ Because of that large Confederate flag that is framed on your wall”, replied Zwerling. Some things never change.

Over the years Zwerling has partnered with such notable attorneys as John Shapiro of the O.J.Simpson trials, John Flowermark, and Bill (Bo) Moffitt who represented Lorena Bobbitt who cut off the penis of her then husband, John Wayne Bobbitt in 1993.

John Kenneth Zwerling has been through the changing times and has pretty much seen it all. He grew up in the hippie generation and had the long hair and all. “It was difficult to command respect going into court with hair on your shoulders, but we conquered that as well. I asked him how he ever made any money representing the underdog and down trodden.

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Advising during House hearing on e-mail inquiry during a 2000 campaign.

“Some of them are very rich,” he says.

Keeping his social values in place, he once represented the Red Hot Chili Peppers when a band member, currently undergoing rehab, was photo

shopped out of a cover on Rolling Stone magazine. That made the band mad and they sued.

From getting the money back for his sailors to defending the rich and

GO FISH FROM PG 39

Boating Safety and Facilities Improvement Act authorizing $60 million in boating fuel taxes to be spent on boating safety programs and boating facility improvements in the early 80s. This “user pay, user benefits” concept also facilitated an important piece of legislation for boating and fishing: The Wallop/Breaux Trust Fund. Schwartz reached his first goal of 100,000 members!

In the 80s BoatUS entered its 20th year, picking up their 200,000th member. By the end of the decade, membership grew to 300,000.

A new graphics department offered affordable boat name graphics. The loss of Coast Guard towing funding resulted in a major boating industry move. TowBoatUS was launched to provide on the water assistance; fuel drop off, battery jumping, along with towing.

In the 90s, BoatUS was instrumental in eliminating the federal tax on diesel fuel used in recreational boats. The BoatUS Foundation completed a comprehensive study on inflatable PFDs leading to US Coast Guard approval. BoatUS towing launched a 24-hour toll-free dispatch. Cell phone calls could be routed directly to towboat Captains. BoatUS established the Cooperating Marina Program, enabling discounts on gas, ramp fees and other member services. Over a million boaters have taken free on-line safety courses.

The Trailer Assist & Towing Program features a 24-hour roadside assistance dispatch and towing for trailers and tow vehicles.

BoatUS become Alexandria’s second largest employer in 2000 in time to handle claims from the most devastating 14-month period for boaters from hurricanes including Katrina.

famous, John Kenneth is still working for the underdog.

And, can he write a letter as well as the JAG officer? “I write an effective letter, he says.

Supporting college bass tournaments, the first ever BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship was held in Texas. The collegiate program has expanded to over 600 colleges making bass fishing the fastest growing team sport in the US. In the single biggest battle for boaters, BoatUS has led the war against ethanol to prevent E-15 expansion and expand ethanol-free gas availability.

In the decade to follow, a BoatUS Towing app was created. Another major victory came when BoatUS hand delivered over 15,000 comments to the Federal Communications Commission demanding private company LightSquared not be allowed to take over the GPS band, a move that would have disrupted all land, air and sea navigation. But this decade will be remembered for the 65,000 boats damaged by Hurricane Sandy and the largest boat catastrophe team ever assembled

by BoatUS. Other milestones have been reached: 600 TowBoatUS boats, the 500,000th call for assistance on the water, total hull value of BoatUS insured boats exceeded $7.4 billion.

Sadly, last year at the age of 85, founder Richard Schwartz passed away.

In the 50 years since its inception, BoatUS has provided services, worked for safety and has set standards in the boating industry for the benefit of all who boat. Today the motto “service, savings and representation” still rings true.

Author Capt. Steve Chaconas is Potomac bass fishing guide & contributing writer for BoatU.S. (BoatUS.com) Potomac River reports: nationalbass.com. Book trips/purchase gift certificates: info@NationalBass.com.

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FIRST BLUSH KIM PUTENS

Controlling Oily Skin in Summer

O

ily skin combined with 100% humidity in Washington, DC equals havoc. It doesn’t have to reach havoc stage if you follow these simple tips.

Tip 1

Keep oily skin balanced by washing right.

Make sure to use the right type of face wash to break down oils but not dry it out. When we see a breakout, our first reaction is to reach for the benzyl peroxide and dry it out.

While you may see instant gratification, the problem is your skin will have a complete breakout meltdown shortly thereafter. The reason is the over drying caused by the harsh response makes the skin produce more oils to compensate for the attempt to dry it out.

Thus, the skin experiences more and worse breakouts. The best way to combat this is to use a cleanser with at least 2% salicylic acid.

The salicylic acid will clean out the pores of the excess oil, but will not dry it out.

Tip 2

Lighten up on your night cream. No matter your skin type, the extreme humidity of summer makes it unnecessary to use heavy moisturizers. The general rule of thumb – if you use a cream in the winter, switch to a lotion. If you typically use a lotion, consider a hydrating serum. And, if your skin is extremely oily, you may not need a lotion at all.

Tip 3

Exfoliate and slough off dead skin cells and clean out pores. Using a physical exfoliation once a week will help to relieve the skin of dead cells and unclog pores. For even better results, follow the exfoliation with a mask. Clay Old Town Crier

masks are best — particularly during summer months — because the clay works to suck out impurities in the pores that lead to breakouts.

If you find that your skin is really greasy, you may want to try a glycolic peel. Glycolic acids exfoliate the skin by breaking down dead cells rather than sloughing them off. Glycolic peels come in varying degrees of intensity. Because of the deep exfoliation of a glycolic peel, it’s imperative that you wear sunscreen when exposed to the sun.

Experience the Difference

Tip 4

JULY SPECIAL

Scale back your makeup. Summer is time to abandon foundations. Foundations melt into pores and contribute to break outs.

Furthermore, skin always looks best in the summer. So, there is no reason to hide it behind foundation. Instead, try tinted moisturizers or powder foundations. Many tinted moisturizers offer sunscreen and powder foundations help to soak up oils.

IT’S SUMMER! GET YOUR BIKINI ON! 20% OFF YOUR NEXT BIKINI OR BRAZILIAN WAX

Tip 5

Choose sunblock in lieu of moisturizers.

Some sunblocks actually absorb oils. Look for sunblocks with oil absorbing micronized zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. In addition to their abilities to absorb oil, they also offer the best sunscreen protection.

Maria

Please welcome the newest members of the Lulu Sage team

Ingrid

Tip 6

Blot, blot, blot. Use oil blotting papers to soak up excess oils. These miracle papers don’t strip the skin of its natural oils. Reach for these instead of a powder puff. Using too much powder can lead to a cakey look.

This column first appeared in the June 2010 issue.

LULU SAGE SALON & SPA 610 Madison Street, Suite100 • Old Town Alexandria, Virginia 703.894.0709 • LuluSageSalonAndSpa.com Don’t forget about our rewards program!

July 2016 | 43

SPIRITUAL RENAISSANCE PEGGIE ARVIDSON

Is Your Lack of Self-Care Affecting Your Profitability?

T

his month let’s talk about Self Care, shall we?

I’m in the business of helping people like you; connect with other people — primarily so that you can get paid for helping other people.

I’m adamant about the power of self-care in this process. I don’t believe we can ever help anyone else at a deep level if we’re not willing or able to honor ourselves with that same level of love, compassion and care, you know?

This is true even if you don’t work for yourself. Make sure your needs are met and provide care for yourself in order to have a successful and financially meaningful life.

Some of you know my story from success, to rock bottom, to where I am now. I’ve done

The

some spying into my own psyche lately to see what was happening under the surface that contributed to those material highs and lows.

What I see is a direct correlation to how much I liked myself. Oh, I always knew what I was supposed to say and do from a self-talk and spiritual perspective. I went through motions like a good practitioner, but when things were really tough financially, I know that I carried the guilty belief that if I didn’t make money, I wasn’t worthy.

It’s interesting to note that I’ve always been very materially motivated. I got my first job, baby-sitting, when I was 11 or 12. I used some of my money to invest in a babysitter’s class through the American Red Cross,

so that I would be the most sought after babysitter in my neighborhood. And I was. I just knew in my bones that having my own money was my ticket to calling my own shots.

This idea that freedom came with money popped into my head of my own accord.

I am one of the lucky ones who had parents that went out of their way to provide what my siblings and I asked for whenever they could.

They also took the time to let us know when our requests weren’t something that would happen — like that pony I wanted in my back yard! Still, they managed to find a way to send me to horse-back riding camp and lessons for most of my teenage years. So even though my requests were generally provided for, I still

Pragmatic Palmist PEGGIE ARVIDSON

Are you ready to use the wisdom in your hands to manifest the business of your dreams? Would you like to find out once and for all how to get out of your own way and attract love and money, using the gifts of your own DNA? Private readings, group sessions, classes and workshops are NOW available by appointment at:

Phone and Skype appointments are also available!

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44 | July 2016

had a deep desire to earn my own money and call my own shots! (Maybe I was just born like that!?)

For the most part that concept worked. It motivated me to work hard, it called on my love of business and marketing and more often than not I made money.

When I was earning good money I felt amazing about myself and those around me. I invested in good food, personal trainers, and other experiences that made me feel even better. I treated myself and those around me because it made me feel good.

Then something shifted.

It could have been my divorce, it could have been the relationship with an unstable man or it could have been that I’d missed so many lessons about finding my own worth without money that the shit finally hit the fan. I don’t know.

When I stopped making money I felt like I’d lost my identity! I didn’t know who I was or why anyone would possibly love me. I know I didn’t love myself much at all, despite being taught to repeat mantras and to find my own inner light. I was going through the motions but there was a deep disconnect between my inner and outer self.

I wasn’t caring for myself.

I wasn’t listening to the inner voice that pleaded for some downtime and sunshine.

I insisted on tweaking my website, paying other people for marketing “systems” and begging and pleading with God to let me get my groove back.

I got sick.

Very. Very. Sick.

I began a long road to recovery, realizing that I didn’t have to get sick. That being sick was the symptom of my long-term lack of selfcare. Years of pushing myself to accomplish something in order to prove my worth to myself had allowed me to have the experience of distrusting myself so much that I was hospitalized.

It’s been three years since my last hospitalization and it’s taken nearly that long to clarify that the way to my financial and business wellness was directly connected to my choice to take action on my own behalf. In big and small ways I honor my needs for human connection, for downtime, for self-care.

Your story may be different.

However, if you’re waiting until you hit some goal outside of yourself before you start taking care of yourself, why wait?

I assure you, you are very worthy of success in love, in business, in family and in financial resources right this minute.

Peggie Arvidson, the Pragmatic Palmist is a healer, teacher and soul coach as well as the founder of The Profitable Alchemist Academy. She’s helped thousands of people connect with their life purpose and put it to work for them through private readings, small group classes and individual coaching programs. You can learn more & sign up to receive your free mini-reading at PeggieArvidson.com. She’s also available for private sessions at Rising Phoenix Holistic Center in downtown Manassas, Va.

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OPEN SPACE LORI WELCH BROWN

SUMMER CAMP

I

missed out on summer camp as a kid. Not sure if my parents couldn’t afford it or it just wasn’t a ‘thing’ in their social circles or maybe it was a Northern thing.

I don’t think I even knew what I had missed out on until I was in my twenties and overheard some coworkers from NY reminiscing about their experiences at swim and tennis camps. All I know is that it sounded magical--spending a week with virtual strangers who shared a common interest. Sitting around the campfire, roasting marshmallows, sharing stories and swapping secrets. Oh the bonding and lifelong friendships that I had missed. My husband loves telling tales about his summers spent sailing at Camp Seagull. It was a tradition he was able to pass down to his son. The closest thing I’ve come to that was what I’m calling my adult summer camp. I recently spent three days in beautiful, sunny Florida with a room full of addicts and their families. I kid you not. I would like to say I was there by choice, but nobody is selecting Camp Addiction on purpose. No flashy brochure or shiny marketing materials are sucking anyone into that destination.

Each morning I awoke early, dressed in my camp attire of comfy clothes and flip flops, took the elevator down to the hotel lobby, walked through the beautifully appointed lobby, past the Grecian style pool with water falls, poolside bar and spa. My fellow camp mates and I breathed in the ocean air while we waited for the van to pick us up for the ten minute drive to the treatment center where we would join our loved ones (treatment residents) for ‘family week.’ While I am not a parent in that I didn’t push anything through my feminine parts, I always wanted and loved children. Nowhere in that fantasy, however, included anything about rehab facilities or treatment centers. I’m pretty sure baby books don’t discuss things like emotional terrorism or other-centered relationships, all of which I am now well versed. No doubt these families Old Town Crier

saved for and dreamed of trips to Disney and Caribbean vacations, not group therapy sessions in dimly lit conference rooms where everything but water was prohibited — and that was a special concession for the occasion. And — be careful when you’re drinking not to crinkle the bottle, subconsciously twist the cap or in any way be a distraction. When you board a cruise ship, you are required to attend a mandatory orientation and so were we. Our host counselors spent an hour going through the rules of the road for the next three days. No candy, gum or food of any kind. No getting up to go to the bathroom or leave the room except for designated breaks.

No sidebar conversations. No sitting with your family member/child. No unauthorized hallway conversations with your family member during break. No re-entry into a session if you step out for any reason or entry into a session if you’re late. All of the sudden, I realized my addiction to coffee and bathrooms. I wasn’t sure I would be able to white knuckle my way through each 90 minute session without either.

Suddenly I was scared.

After orientation, my camp mates and I took turns going around the circle introducing ourselves.

The patients--our beloved family members--aka the addicts wouldn’t

be joining us until the evening so this was an opportunity for us to get to know each other and talk freely about our heartbreak. Of course, the room was to be considered a sacred vault-no words, emotions or tears would ever see the light of day. Not only was I scared, I suddenly felt claustrophobic and acutely introverted. How was I to share the resentment and anger I felt over someone close to my heart? Turns out that was the easy part. The hard part was keeping it together when they laid their lives out wide open. Suddenly the Jersey stylist, French financier, Palm Beach socialite, campaign strategist, stay at home mom, blue collar dad and I all had a lot in common. Our respective asylums were all being managed by the crazy person in our lives. Everyone’s story was unique and yet similar and filled with pain, resentment, guilt, anger, frustration and hurt. The counselors used this time to ensure us that what brought us to Camp Addiction was not our faults, but what might bring us back here-or to a cemetery-probably would be if we kept loving these people to death.

Instead of idyllic afternoons by the lake, we spent hours debating enabling. Enabling sounds very black and white. When asked, say “No.” No, we won’t buy you a car. No, we

won’t pay for your cell phone. No, we don’t have any cash. This theory goes to hell in a hand basket very quickly when the addict in question resided in your womb for nine months and even trickier when you are in the dark about your loved one’s use which many of us are until the addiction is either full blown or it’s too late. Of course it is easy to stand firm in saying that no way, no how would you ever make a rent payment or pay a light bill for your little addict, but reality says you probably would which is the absolute worst thing for him/her. It is crystal clear when the woman next to you defends why she paid her son’s credit card bill when he was living in his car because she didn’t want his credit score to be impacted that SHE is bat sh@t crazy. Of course, when you rationalize that your purchase of a new MacBook was simply to aid in his/ her job search, it is a different story altogether. Someone call the enabling police. It is a lesson in rewriting your brain and DNA to say ‘no’ and mean it. Saying ‘yes’ can’t be an option and it is slowly eroding their self-confidence and sending the message that they’re not capable. The end result is that they have no self-esteem and resent you for your role in their demise. Is it time to go sailing yet? Which way to the weenie roast? Please.

July 2016 | 45

When you’re curious, you find lots of interesting things to do. — Walt Disney Life’s like a movie. Write your own ending. Keep believing, keep pretending. — Jim Henson Better to fight for something than to live for nothing. — George S. Patton It is time for us to realize that we’re too great a nation to limit ourselves to small dreams. — Ronald Reagan If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves. — Thomas Edison Where liberty dwells, there is my country. — Ben Franklin The cause of America is in a great measure the cause of all mankind. — Thomas Paine

T

he face lift of American Way is taking on a life of its own and I am very happy with the way it is shaping up!

I really like living somewhere that is

BY LANI GERING ever evolving.

Last month I wrote about the new artwork that adorns the corner of Fleet Street and American Way (J. Seward Johnson’s Forever Marilyn, Embracing Peace and Holding Out). One month later, we have a beautiful sculpted banner of the American Flag flying above the seemingly life size likeness’ of Presidents Washington and Lincoln

and African-American social reformer Frederick Douglass on the corner of American Way and Waterfront Street. All three are very impressive.

Along with the three dimensional artwork there are seven quotes from seven prominent men who have helped shape the American way of life. As you walk along the promenade and look down, these quotes are now etched in granite markers embedded along American Way. Each one makes you pause and think and I believe that that is a good thing, especially in this day and age!

It is also apparent that a tribute to Henry Ford and the evolution of the car is coming soon as well. The photos in this column are of a 1926

Ford Model T and the shell of the futuristic laser printer created vehicle who, by the way, have their base here in the Harbor. The gentleman that I talked to who is in charge of the lighting along the Way told me that he watched them drive the Model T into the harbor. It really is a beautiful car. I am on the fence about the laser printer vehicles but we did get to see one in action a year or so ago so….it is the future! Will be interesting to see the completed tribute.

As with any change, there is the inconvenience of the construction.

Please don’t let that keep you from coming over for a visit. There are three ways in to the heart of the Harbor – Waterfront Street, Fleet Street and St. George Boulevard. All three streets

cross American Way. Waterfront has some one way traffic for about a block right now and quite possible by the time you are reading this, the traffic pattern will be restored to normal.

Be sure to check out the calendar of events and take part in those recurring events that appeal to you! Friday nights are a big hit this summer as are the movies on the big screen! If you are a music fan and appreciate some military humor, the Salute to Sunset concerts on Saturday nights are the place you want to be! Have a safe and Happy Fourth of July!

REMINDER: THERE ARE NO FIREWORK DISPLAYS IN THE HARBOR ON 4TH OF JULY!

American Way’s Transformation 46 | July 2016

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NATIONAL HARBOR JULY EVENTS

Visit www.NationalHarbor.com for more information and holiday itineraries.

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS THRU OCTOBER Farmers Market American Way 10 am - 5 pm Miller Farms Farmer’s Market returns to National Harbor with their wide array of fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, beautiful flowers and plants, and much more.

TUESDAYS THRU SEPTEMBER Turbo Kick/Cardio Kickboxing On the Plaza, 7-8 pm FREE! Compliments of No Excuse Workout WEDNESDAYS THRU SEPTEMBER Family Fitness Class On the Plaza 10 - 10:30 am FREE! Compliments of No Excuse Workout

Hip Hop Zumba Class On the Plaza, 7-8pm FREE! Compliments of No Excuse Workout SATURDAYS THRU SEPTEMBER Yoga On the Plaza 9 - 10 am, FREE! Compliments of No Excuse Workout SUMMER FRIDAYS THRU SEPTEMBER On the Plaza, 4 - 8:30 pm New this season! Join your friends for one of the many lawn games the likes of bocce ball, corn hole, yahzee, tic-tactoe and jenga! Games start at 4 pm.

From 6 to 7 pm Bobby McKey’s Dueling Piano Boom Box will be on hand. The evening rounds out with a DJ and dancers handing out giveaways!

FREE! SATURDAYS THRU SEPTEMBER Salute the Sunset Concert Series On the Plaza, 7 pm, FREE! World-class performances by bands from the nation’s Armed Forces at National

Harbor will stir the hearts and souls of civilians and military personnel alike, while their tuneful stylings in a variety of genres please music lovers of all ages.

2nd USAF Airmen of Note 9th USAF Singing Sergeants 16th USAF Concert Band Movies On the Potomac On the Plaza, FREE! Nothing says summer like an evening under the stars—and there’s no better way to enjoy the season than a Date Night at National Harbor. Join us on the Plaza every Thursday night and Sundays for Family Night. Pack your chairs, grab food to go from one of our delicious dining establishments, and meet us at the Plaza screen for a FREE evening of fun for all ages!

UNIVERSOUL CIRCUS The Plateau Show times vary by day UniverSoul Circus returns for a world-class, live entertainment extravaganza. Introducing big top thrillseekers to phenomenal performances by the most sought-after circus performers in the world. UniverSoul connects with progressive, upwardly mobile, urban pop cultures from around the world. It embraces and celebrates the unique and familiar aspects of global cultures and ethnicities into a stellar production that blends circus arts, theater and music.

Universoulcircus.com.

Individual ticket sales: 1-800-745-3000 Group ticket sales (20+): 1-800-316-7439

DATE NIGHT • 7 PM 7th Jurassic World 14th Pirates of the Caribbean -

On Stranger Tides 21st Hot Pursuit 28th How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days FAMILY NIGHT • 6 PM 3rd Surfs Up 10th Smurfs 17th Honey, I Shrunk the Kids 24th Brave 31st Online Movie Poll

23RD THE SINGLES RUN 5K Plaza Registration: 7:30 am Start: 9 am Less about your PR and more about making new friends, The Singles Run is a five-kilometer, un-timed event designed for singles and their supportive friends and family. Single Runners build their personal profile on their bib at each kilometer and share their contact information by tearing off their contact lookup tabs from their racing bib to give to others they are interested in connecting with later. The Singles Run experience is enhanced by our Sponsors who provide fun and flirty signage along the way. Our pure of mind, or not so pure of mind, runners will enjoy their own interpretation of the meaning of the signage…you know who you are. All participant runners will receive a finisher medal as they cross the finish line.

Singlesrun.com

HAVE BREAKFAST WITH A PIRATE Capt’n Bones Buccaneer Breakfast Join Capt’n Bones for the finest fare on the Potomac River!

After filling up your belly, join our pirate crew for games, arts & crafts and more!

7:30am and 9:00am Saturdays & Sundays all summer long.

It’s all part of SummerFest only at Gaylord National Resort.

Find out more GaylordNational.com/SummerFest 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD 20745 I 301-965-4000 Located just across the River in National Harbor, MD

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July 2016 | 47

Potomac

RiveRboat

comPany

SightSeeing – Private CharterS – Water taxiS

private yacht charter Cruise the waters of the Potomac River with its postcard views of the DC skyline.

Business entertainment, private parties, weddings, birthdays and anniversaries are our specialties.

We take the art of entertaining to a whole new level, no matter what the occasion.

You and your guests will remember the cruise for years to come. Quality service begins with custom planning to suit your needs.

alexandria – national harbor Water taxi

washington by wateR monuments cRuise

National Harbor is a waterfront destination across from Alexandria. Round-trip and One-way service provided.

Enjoy our nation’s monuments and historic landmarks on a narrated cruise between Old Town Alexandria and Georgetown Washington D.C.

george WaShington’S mount veRnon by wateR cRuise

Water taxi to the national Mall

potomac belle Docked in Old Town Alexandria

For reservations and additional information

703-868-5566 • potomacbelle.com “What a perfect evening you provided for my guests from out of town and out of the country. Your crew was helpful and professional, from working with my caterer to keeping safety uppermost.”

NATIONAL HARBOR DINING GUIDE AC LOUNGE 156 Waterfront St. 301-749-2299 BOND 45 149 Waterfront Street 301-839-1445 BREWS & BITES Capitol Wheel Pier 301-749-1300 CADILLAC RANCH 186 Fleet St. 301-839-1100 cadillacranchgroup.com 48 | July 2016

Arrive by boat and spend the afternoon exploring the 45-acre estate, grounds, Museum and Education Center.

For additional information, visit our ticket booth located in the Alexandria City Marina, behind the Torpedo Factory Art Center.

703.684.0580

CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL 158 National Plaza 301-749-2016

McCORMICK & SCHMICK 145 National Plaza 301-567-6224

CRAB CAKE CAFE 140 National Plaza 240-766-2063

McLOONES PIER HOUSE 141 National Harbor Plaza 301-839-0815 mcloonespierhousenh.com

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 GRANITE CITY FOOD & BREWERY 200 American Way 240-493-3900

Arrive in style at the National Mall to view the Roosevelt Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, World War II Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, and more!

NANDO’S PERI-PERI 191 American Way 301-567-8900 NATIONAL PAST TIME SPORTS BAR & GRILLE Gaylord Resort 301-965-4000 gaylordnational.com

|

ww ww w . PP o ot to om ma ac cR R ii v v ee R R bb o oa at tc co o. c co om m w

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 publichousenationalharbor.com

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

REDSTONE AMERICAN GRILL 155 National Plaza 301-839-3330

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MANY THANKS TO ALL WHO MADE THE 2016 EVENT A HUGE SUCCESS! We Are Proud Supporters of Calvert County ‘Shop with a Cop’ Program

PLATINUM SPONSORS BOB HALL • HLW ELECTRIC GOLD SPONSORS Absolute Quality Construction • Corley Construction/Stepanie Corley Remax • Direct Express Tag & Title/ Rockville Tag & Title • Girls Just Want to Have Fun •Jeff Love & Associates, Inc./The Mac Remax/Title Max McNellis Real Estate • Old Town Crier • Planet Green • Sysco • Wards Marine SILVER SPONSORS Adams Burch • Jailbreak Brewery • Julie Posey • Mexico Restaurant • Southern Maryland Caterers • The Tavern BRONZE SPONSORS Community Bank of The Chesapeake • E. Goodwin & Sons • Mullen Sondberg Wimbish & Stone. PA

Three Magic Words Outdoor. Waterfront. Dining.

The moment we’ve all been waiting for is here.

Days are getting longer, nights warmer.

Outdoor waterfront dining will soon be on display at Cedar Knoll.

Stay tuned for our patio opening.

Food & Ambience Deserving of Its Waterfront Address Sunday Brunch 11-2:30 • Happy Hour 4-6:30, Tuesday-Friday • Dinner 5-10, Tuesday-Sunday Now Open for Lunch 11-2, Thursday-Saturday

9030 Lucia Lane Alexandria, Virginia 22308 • 703-780-3665 cedarknollva.com • reservations@cedarknollva.com