Old Town Crier Full Issue - December 2023

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

PRICELESS • SINCE 1988

oldtowncrier oldtowncrier.com

DECEMBER 2023

otcregionalmag

PUBLISHER’S NOTES

from

A

The Oyster Roaster in action!

s I sit here the day after Thanksgiving and write these December Publishers Notes, I find myself getting into the spirit of the season. We got together with friends last evening to share

Thanksgiving dinner. It was good to be standing at the grill again - haven’t had my own since 2014 – roasting local oysters for everyone! As usual, there was laughter, being a year older and catching up on the last year. It was also a time to give thanks for many things especially our good health.

When December rolls around I always drift back in time to 1987 as my friend Dave Underwood and I were putting the final touches on our eagerly anticipated first issue of the Old Town Crier in January of 1988. Now this December we are burning the midnight oil pulling together our 432nd issue as we finish up our 36th year. I am thankful for all of the fine people that help bring the Old Town Crier to all of the good folks in Alexandria and “From the Bay to the Blue Ridge”.

In hindsight, the only thing that I really contributed in those early days was to recognize the opportunity, come up with the name and sell the ads. It is really all the folks who have come into our realm over the last 36 years that made it work.

This month’s issue brings you words to live by. Lori Welch Brown tells us why December is the most wonderful time of the year in her Open Space column, while Ron Powers writes of the immortal Cher and her contribution to Christmas cheer with her new album "Christmas", and the stand out track "Christmas Ain't Christmas Without You" in High Notes.

If you all watched the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, I’m sure you caught this icons performance. She rocked it at 77!

We were once again flattered to be invited to the 5th Annual Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail Gala awards in mid-November where one of the new kids on the block, Jump Mountain Vineyard garnered the 2023 Cup. It was good to catch up with our former Grapevine columnist Nancy Bauer and reconnect with award winning winemaker Shep Rouse and his wife Jane, who own Rock

4 December 2023

Bob &i Lan

Bridge Vineyard. I have known Shep for over 30 years. He and Jane opened the vineyard in 1988 as well. We scored a bottle of his Syrah to take back to the B&B. In staying with the Shenandoah wine region, Matt Fitzsimmons tells us about the similarities of the Shenandoah Valley and the Champagne region of France in Grapevine. Sparkling wine is not just a celebration drink, but is becoming an everyday enjoyment.

Staying in the holiday spirit, Erik Evans gives us some insight to the holiday “Madness” that runs into “Midnight” in Annapolis in From the Bay while Julie Reardon pontificates on holiday decorating in the To the Blue Ridge column. It is about much more than finding the perfect Christmas Tree.

This month’s cover shot was taken by local Alexandrian Lee Moody. Her images have graced our cover several times over the last couple of years and we look forward to many more. She and her cool pooch, Taylor, roam the streets of Alexandria in the wee hours of the morning as she captures amazing sunrises. Another very talented photographer, who is Chesapeake Bay based, that we love to promote, David Sites, is much like Lee in that he loves capturing the sunrise as well. It’s hard to call either of these talented photographers amateur.

A special holiday “Thank You” goes out to you readers, many who have been reading us since day one and to our advertisers, several who have also been with us since day one. Without one we could not print each month and without the other, there would be no reason to print at all. Please support our advertisers...they are the best!

Wishing you all a very Happy Holiday no matter how you celebrate.

"This is the most Wonderful Time of the Year!"

On Stage Old Town

We also want to welcome aboard Mark Edelman and his new column On Stage Old Town. His first column explores the great live performances, including special holiday productions, in the area this December. Having recently moved to Alexandria, Mark is a playwright and journalist who writes about theater. His specialty is thumbnail reviews incorporated into a theater calendar. He is also a lifetime member of the Broadway League and a Tony Award voter.

Old Town Crier

december‘23 A Division of OTC Media LLC

OTC Media LLC PO Box 320386 Alexandria, VA 22320 571-257-5437

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

Worth waiting for!

PUBLISHER

Bob Tagert

MARKETING & ADVERTISING

Lani Gering Bob Tagert Meg Mullery

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SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE

Erin Koons

CONTRIBUTORS

Stephen Bearce Sarah Becker Alexander Britel Cheryl Burns F. Lennox Campello Steve Chaconas Mark Edelman Doug Fabbioli Matt Fitzsimmons Nicole Flanagan Lani Gering Miriam Kramer Timothy Long

Cindy McGovern Glenn Morel Meg Mullery Melinda Murphy Ron Powers Kim Putens Julie Reardon Ashley Stimpson Bob Tagert Carl Trevisan Ryan Unverzagt Catherine Varchever Lori Welch Brown © 2023 OTC Media LLC. 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 from the Chesapeake Bay to the Blue Ridge Mountains and USVI.

A Bit of History........................................12 Fitness...................................................41 National Harbor......................................46 About the Cover........................................6 From the Bay..........................................20 On Stage................................................17 After Hours.............................................16 From the Trainer.....................................40 On the Road............................................5 Alexandria Events....................................8 Gallery Beat...........................................14 Open Space............................................45 Art & Antiques........................................14 Go Fish...................................................44 Pets of the Month...................................43 Caribbean Connection.............................26 Grapevine..............................................36 Points on Pets........................................42 Dining Guide..........................................29 High Notes.............................................16

Publishers notes......................................4

Dining Out.............................................30 Holiday Feature.......................................10 Road Trip...............................................24 Exploring VA Wines ...............................38

Last Word...............................................18 To the Blue Ridge....................................22

Financial Focus.......................................19 Let's Eat.................................................32 Urban Garden.........................................11 First Blush.............................................39

Let's Get Crafty......................................33 Where is the Mural?.................................6

ON THE ROAD WITH OTC Longtime friend and fan and subscriber of the Old Town Crier, Linda Plant Allin took her copy of the OTC on her trek up to the summit of Cadillac Mountain – the highest point on Mount Desert Island in Acadia National Park. Linda and her husband Dave took a road trip up the east coast in early September after a stay in Old Town Alexandria before returning to their home in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Pictured poolside at their hacienda aka the Hot Oak Ridge Boys, longtime Alexandria residents Jimmy Rosenburg (left) and Mark Barrett relocated to the desert near Las Vegas in Nevada about 7 years ago. They haven’t missed a beat since they subscribe to the OTC and get it delivered each month.

Many of you may recognize Mark from behind the bar and the former Chez Andre and later at RT’s restaurant.

If you would like to see your photo featured in this space, take a couple of shots with a copy of the OTC in hand and send it to office@oldtowncrier.com along with information for the caption. Be sure to include your mailing address if you want a hard copy sent to you.

Old Town Crier

December 2023 5

JUST FOR FUN WHERE IS IT?

Where Is This Mural?

Last months “clip” must have been way too easy because we had many correct guesses! Let’s see if this month’s image is a bit more challenging!

Lots of correct responses to the November mural. Looks like we have many readers who hang out in the Del Ray section of Alexandria. We also were remiss in posting the lucky winner of the October challenge last month.

Congratulations to Katalina Mafla Charry for correcting identifying the mural on the side of the Birchmere in the October issue and to Marelyn Portillo Martinez for identifying the window painting on the Eye to Eye optometrist office on Mount Vernon Avenue in the November issue.

Maybe this month it will be a bit more challenging. Be the first to guess the correct location and receive a $50 gift certificate to a local dining establishment of our choice. In order to participate, you will have to Like and Follow us: Facebook @oldtowncrier Instagram @otcregionalmag Send a PM with your guess and we will contact the winner each month via PM to arrange for prize delivery.

Mural Photo by Lee Moody.

O N THE COVER We are once again fortunate to feature another fabulous image taken by local Alexandrian and amazing photographer Lee Moody on the cover. This image of the ornament she purchased at the Old Town Shop last year hanging on her tree depicts our annual “Home for the Holidays” theme perfectly.

We also would be remiss if we didn’t mention another amazing photo taken by David Sites that serves as the background of our Southern Maryland business page in the “From the Bay” Section.

This photo of Santa Claus standing on the rocks in front of the wreath-adorned Thomas Point Lighthouse would have been on the cover if Annapolis were our home.

This iconic lighthouse is a favorite subject of Davids.

Both images make us think of the holidays and wishing you every good thing the season has to offer!

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office@oldtowncrier.com

LIKE AND FOLLOW US ONLINE 6 December 2023

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Old Town Crier

December 2023 7

EVENTS AROUND TOWN

Named one of Travel + Leisure’s Best Places to Travel in 2023 and Best Cities in the U.S. 2023 and one of Good Housekeeping’s Best Places to Travel in December 2023, Alexandria, VA, is filled with nostalgic wonder during the holiday season. Stroll along the King Street mile and feel transported into a European Christmas village as you pass by lantern-lit doorways and pop into buzzing shops and eateries, leading to the bustling Potomac River waterfront, within eyesight of Washington, D.C. For more holiday events and activities, visit VisitAlexandria.com/Holidays.

Connect with us!

Web: VisitAlexandriaVA.com Blog: Blog.VisitAlexandriaVA.com FB: Facebook.com/VisitAlexandriaVA Twitter: Twitter.com/AlexandriaVA Instagram: Instagram.com/VisitAlexVA

Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run Through February Open daily from 5 to 10 p.m.

Admission $$ Cameron Run Regional Park 4001 Eisenhower Avenue 703-760-0767 cameroniceandlights.com Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run offers a fun, unstructured outdoor family experience, just a short drive from Old Town Alexandria. Explore unique light displays, snap family pictures or selfies with a variety of displays and take a spin on the outdoor ice rink. Capacity is limited; reservations are required to ensure access on a specific date. Ice skating reservations are required. Tickets are on sale now.

New this year, daytime ice skating is available December 18 to 30 and weekends and holidays throughout January and February.

Holiday Markets at Old Town North 3rd, 5th, 10th, 12th, 17th & 19th December 3, 10 and 17, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

December 5, 12, and 19, from 3 to 6:30 pm.

Admission: Free Montgomery Park 901 N Royal Street oldtownnorth.org Shop for local gifts while celebrating the Christmas season with dozens of vendors offering an array of baked goods and produce, specialty food items, seasonal decorations and fresh greenery and gifts.

8 December 2023

Shops of Del Ray Holiday Sip & Shop 7th 6 to 9 p.m.

Admission: Free to participate Various locations throughout Del Ray visitdelray.com Join the Shops of Del Ray for special extended shopping hours to shop sooner, shop local and enjoy special promotions and complimentary wine and refreshments.

How to Celebrate Kwanzaa Workshop 9th 11 a.m. to 12:30 pm Admission: $3 per person Alexandria Black History Museum 902 Wythe Street alexandriava.gov/shop Learn about the origins, concepts, practices and foods of Kwanzaa and leave knowing how to do your own celebration. Families of all ages welcome.

Christmas Illuminations 15th & 16th 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Admission $$ George Washington’s Mount Vernon 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway 703-780-2000 mountvernon.org/illuminations Visit the first president’s home for its landmark holiday event, Christmas Illuminations, set to return December 15 and 16, 2023, featuring a fireworks and holiday lights show over the Potomac River. The event includes an 18th-century winter market featuring handmade items by colonial artisans and much more.

A Very Merry ALX Jazz Fest 16th

7 to 9 p.m.

Admission: Free George Washington Masonic National Memorial 101 Callahan Drive alexandriava.gov/arts/jazz

New this year, the City's Office of the Arts is proud to present "A Very Merry ALX Jazz Fest," a holiday event that is free and open to all at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies of jazz and prepare to be moved by mesmerizing spoken word performances that will inspire and uplift.

Performers are selected through the Office of the Arts Jazz Fest activation team, Old Town Crier

LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS HOLIDAY MAGIC. HISTORIC STREET S.

OLD TOWN FARMERS MARKET Market Square 301 King Street Saturdays, 7 am – 12 Noon Year Round

November 17 - January 1 Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run December 2 - 16 “A Christmas Carol” at The Little Theatre of Alexandria December 2 52nd Annual Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade sponsored by Wegmans December 2 23rd Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights sponsored by Amazon December 3 Del Ray Holiday Tree & Menorah Lighting December 9 Christmas Market & Holiday Craft Show at John Carlyle Square December 15 - 16 Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon

The Old Town Market is thought to be the one of nation’s oldest continuing markets operating since 1753. It is said that George Washington sent his products from Mount Vernon to be sold here. Today the plaza is a mecca for farmers and artists to sell their wares. The Market is a primary source for meats, dairy, fish, fruits, vegetables and flowers for all those who visit.

DEL RAY FARMERS MARKET Corner of Mt. Vernon and Oxford Avenues Saturdays, 8 am to Noon Year Round This market is strictly a producer grown market. Lots of fresh vegetables, fruits, fish and salmon, fresh mushrooms, baked goods, hard cider. Farmers are within a 150 mile radius of Alexandria. A non-profit is featured each weekend.

OLD TOWN NORTH FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET Montgomery Park 901 North Royal Street Thursdays, 3 pm – 7 pm Year Round

Alexandria’s favorite dog friendly market! The Old Town North Thursday Market is a growers only market with a focus on produce from small family farms and local artisans. Products sold at the market include fresh fruits and veggies from Virginia’s Northern Neck, Micro Greens from an urban farm, Empanadas, Fresh baked pastries with a European flair and much more.

FOUR MILE RUN FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET 4109 Mount Vernon Avenue Sundays, 9 am – 1 pm Year Round

This market offers fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels and strives to reflect the diversity of Alexandria’s community. Local artisans display their arts and crafts as well.

comprised of professionals from the Smithsonian, NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert Series and the Levine School of Music. Before the main event begins, attend the pre-show and mingling session starting at 5 p.m., featuring three art projects commissioned by the Office of the Arts through a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

29th Annual First Night Alexandria 31st

2 until 11 p.m.

Admission $$ Venues Throughout Old Town firstnightalexandria.org

Experience the region’s signature family-friendly New Year’s Eve festival of music and more. A community celebration of the performing arts, First Night Alexandria rings in the new year with music, comedy, dance and fireworks. New this year, enjoy a spectacular twilight fireworks display at 6 p.m. Following an evening of live entertainment, an abbreviated encore fireworks display over the Potomac River will occur at midnight. Visit the event website for a full schedule of events.

December 31 First Night Alexandria Festivities & Fireworks For even more holiday events and things to do, check out:

VisitAlexandria.com/Holidays Corporate Partner

Old Town Crier

December 2023 9

HOLIDAY FEATURE

LANI GERING

T’was the Night Before Christmas?????

W

hile I was searching the interwebs for some inspiration for something that related to the holidays, I ran across a piece that was published in Time magazine last year that outlined 11, yes eleven, holidays that take place around the world this month. That led me to good old Wikipedia and a couple of other sources to get a bit of info on some of them. This is why we say “Happy Holidays” to those whose religious affiliation we don’t know…..

I’m a nice Episcopalian girl from Wyoming who celebrates Christmas but I have several friends that celebrate Hanukkah and Kwanzaa and a few who are big fans of Boxing Day but I wasn’t aware of any of the others. In this day and age and with the war in the mid-east looming over the world stage, I thought it might be a good idea to let you know a bit about some of what various cultures and religions are celebrating this month.

5th, 6th or 19th St. Nicholas Day According to Wikipedia, Saint Nicholas Day, also called the Feast of Saint Nicholas, observed on the 5th or 6th of December in Western Christian countries, and on 19 December in Eastern Christian countries using the old church calendar, is the feast day of Saint Nicholas of Myra; it falls within the season of Advent. It is celebrated as a Christian festival with particular regard to Saint Nicholas' reputation as a bringer of gifts, as well as through the attendance of church services. Source:Wikipedia

8th Immaculate Conception Day The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, also called Immaculate Conception Day, celebrates the sinless lifespan and Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin 10 December 2023

Mary on 8 December, nine months before the feast of the Nativity of Mary, celebrated on 8 September.

It is one of the most important Marian feasts in the liturgical calendar of the Roman Catholic Church celebrated worldwide.

Source:Wikipedia

Bodhi Day Also on the 8th, Bodhi Day is the Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day that Gautama Buddha (Shakyamuni) is said to have attained enlightenment, also known as bodhi in Sanskrit and Pali.

According to tradition, Siddhartha had recently forsaken years of extreme ascetic practices and resolved to sit under a peepal tree, also known as a Bodhi tree (Ficus religiosa), and simply meditate until he found the root of suffering, and how to liberate oneself from it. Source: Wikipedia

12th Feast Day of Our Lady Guadalupe People in Mexico and in the United States celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12th.

Mary is the Patron Saint of Mexico and Patroness of the Americas. Every year, thousands of people from all over the country make a pilgrimage to the Basilica in Mexico City. The day commemorates her apparition to Saint Juan Diego in the hills of Tepeyac in 1531. She asked him to go to the bishop and tell him that the Ever Virgin Mary, Mother of God, sent him to ask for a church to be built atop Tepeyac hill. Source: SaintsResource.com

18th – 26th Hanukkah This eight-day Jewish holiday of Hanukkah begins Dec. 18. A central part of the Jewish Festival of Lights entails the lighting of a nine-branched

menorah each night. (The ninth candle is used to light the others.)

The ritual symbolizes how one day’s worth of oil miraculously lasted for eight days during a battle between a small group of Jewish people and the powerful Greek-Syrian army in 165 B.C. Per Jewish tradition, they are said to have emerged victorious and reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. Source: TIME Magazine.

21st – Jan 1st Yule Wiccans and Neo-Pagans celebrate the winter solstice (the darkest day of the year, on Dec. 21) through the festival of Yule. The winter solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year; Yule celebrates the re-emergence of the sun and the days beginning to grow longer again.

The festival was first celebrated in Scandinavia as a Norse festival.

A common tradition is burning the yule log, which originally was done to celebrate the sun’s return. It has since also been folded into a Christmas tradition. In fact, Yule became associated with Christmas in the 9th century, although some still stick to the original Yule celebrations. Source: TIME Magazine

26th Boxing Day A British tradition that occurs the day after Christmas and dates back to the 1800s when Queen Victoria ruled the throne. At the time, it was a day to ensure that upper class Britons gave servants and workers a day off, in addition to giving them a present. The holiday has since evolved into a more commercial occasion for gift-giving.

Source: TIME Magazine

26th – Jan 1st Kwanzaa Kwanzaa (/ˈkwɑːn.zə/) is an annual celebration of African-

American culture from December 26 to January 1, culminating in a communal feast called Karamu, usually on the sixth day. It was created by activist Maulana Karenga, based on African harvest festival traditions from various parts of West and Southeast Africa.

Kwanzaa was first celebrated in 1966.

Estimates of how many Americans celebrate Kwanzaa have varied in recent years, from as few as a half a million to as many as 12 million.

In a 2019 USA Today poll, 2.9 percent of people who planned to celebrate a winter holiday said they would celebrate Kwanzaa. Source: Wikipedia

26th Zarathosht Diso Zartosht no-diso, or Zarthost no deeso, is an important day of remembrance in the Zoroastrian religion in India. It is a commemoration of the death anniversary of the prophet Zoroaster.

It is observed on the 11th day (Khorshed) of the 10th month (Dae).

In the seasonal calendar, Zarthost NoDiso falls on December 26.

It is an occasion of remembrance with lectures and discussions held on the life and works of the prophet.

Attendance at the fire temple is very high during this occasion. A much higher number of mobeds are brought to pray at the Atash Behrams and Atash Adarans. There is no mourning in the Zoroastrian religion, only remembrance and worship of the Farohars of the departed. Source: Wikipedia You will note that I didn’t include Christmas and New Year’s Eve in the info above. I figured you all know the drill on those days and I have to say I might just add a little Yule celebrating to my holiday festivities this year!

Have a fantastic holiday season!

Old Town Crier

URBAN GARDEN

MELINDA MYERS

Keep Holiday Plants Looking Their Best The holiday season has arrived.

That means you will be on the giving or receiving end of a poinsettia, Christmas cactus, cyclamen, amaryllis or other holiday plant. Extend the beauty and longevity of these holiday beauties with proper care.

And that starts the minute you leave the florist or garden center. Always protect your gift plants from the harsh outdoors. Professional florists and garden center staff will provide a care tag and wrap your plants in a plastic or paper sleeve.

Remove the wrap as soon as you arrive home. This is especially important when caring for poinsettias. The upturned leaves emit ethylene, a ripening hormone, that can shorten the longevity of your poinsettia’s colorful display.

Rewrap your holiday plant anytime you move it outdoors and never leave it sitting in a cold car while running errands. A chilled plant looks fine until it thaws. By the next day the plant turns grayish-green,

wilts and may die. Not such a nice gift after all.

Once your plant arrives home, place it in a cool, brightly lit location. The cool temperatures and indirect light help the blooms last longer. Avoid drafts of hot and cold air. These can dry or chill the plant, resulting in leaf and blossom drop. Fold down the foil wrap to allow sunlight to reach all the leaves.

Keep the soil moist, like a damp sponge, but not wet. A quick touch of the top inch or two of soil will let you know when it is time to water.

Water thoroughly whenever the top few inches of soil are crumbly and just slightly moist.

Pour out any water that collects in the foil, basket, decorative pot or saucer. Or place pebbles in the bottom of the container or saucer to elevate the plant above any sitting water.

Plant your amaryllis bulb in a container that is slightly larger than the bulb and has drainage holes. Set the bulb in a well-drained potting

The Legend of the Poinsettia Old Town Crier

mix with 1/3 of the pointed end exposed. Water the potting mix thoroughly and place the container in a cool sunny location. Continue to water thoroughly, but only often enough to keep the soil barely moist.

Or go soilless. Place several inches of pebbles in the bottom of a glass vase or watertight container. Cover the pebbles with water. Set the bulb on top of the pebbles, adding more stones around the bulb to hold it in place. Leave the top one third of the bulb exposed. Add water as needed to maintain the water level just below the bulb.

Now relax and wait the month or more needed for your amaryllis bulb to wake up and start growing.

Water more often once sprouts appear.

Keep your floral display looking its best by removing spent flowers from azaleas, Christmas cactus, cyclamen and kalanchoes. This keeps the plant looking fresh and often encourages more blooms. Remove the true flowers, those yellow knobs

A charming story is told of Pepita, a poor Mexican girl who had no gift to present the Christ Child at Christmas Eve Services. As Pepita walked slowly to the chapel with her cousin Pedro, her heart was filled with sadness rather than joy.

"I am sure, Pepita, that even the most humble gift, if given in love, will be acceptable in His eyes," said Pedro consolingly.

Not knowing what else to do, Pepita knelt by the roadside and gathered a

in the center of the colorful leaves of the poinsettia. This extends the longevity and beauty of the poinsettia plant.

And once the holidays are past, keep enjoying these plants through the gray days of winter. Move the plants to a sunny window, fertilize with a dilute solution of complete or flowering plant fertilizer and water as needed.

Add some artificial berries, cut flowers in water picks or silk blooms to replace the faded flowers. Use colorful stakes or natural twigs for added beauty and to support floppy leaves and stems.

Be sure to add a few holiday plants to this year’s gift list. They’re guaranteed to brighten everyone’s holiday celebrations.

About the Author: Melinda Myers is the author of more than 20 gardening books and is the host of The Great Courses’ How to Grow Anything DVD series. Her website, www.MelindaMyers.com, offers gardening tips and videos.

handful of common weeds, fashioning them into a small bouquet. Looking at the scraggly bunch of weeds, she felt more saddened and embarrassed than ever by the humbleness of her offering.

She fought back a tear as she entered the small village chapel.

As she approached the altar, she remembered Pedro's kind words: "Even the most humble gift, if given in love, will be acceptable in His eyes." She felt her spirit lift as she knelt to lay the

bouquet at the foot of the nativity scene.

Suddenly, the bouquet of weeds burst into blooms of brilliant red, and all who saw them were certain that they had witnessed a Christmas miracle right before their eyes.

From that day on, the bright red flowers were known as the Flores de Noche Buena, or Flowers of the Holy Night, for they bloomed each year during the Christmas season.

Today, the common name for this plant is the poinsettia!

December 2023 11

A BIT OF HISTORY

©

SARAH BECKER

Virginia Fitzhugh Wheat Thomas Abolitionist Angel

For many, December is a month of religious remembrance. George Washington believed in a Creator God, “one that was active in the Universe.”

He referred to his God by many names, most often by the name of “Providence.”

Seventy-five year old Stanley Greene also believes in a Creator God. A black-Alexandrian he frequently speaks of the Creator’s abolitionistminded angels—Virginia Fitzhugh Wheat Thomas [1893-1987] especially.

Angel, as defined by the American Heritage dictionary: “1. An immortal spiritual creature. 2.

A good kind person. 3. A financial backer of an enterprise.”

Virginia Fitzhugh Wheat [VFW], a whiteAlexandrian of notable heritage, was born in 1893: ten years after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the Civil Rights Act of 1875. Two years before William Smoot, Grand Commander of the Confederate Grand Camp of Virginia shared a circular-letter.

In the 1880s conservatives, reorganized as Democrats gained governmental control of the Commonwealth. It was the period when power and position, politics and nostalgic celebration gave way to racial segregation.

“I must take this occasion to congratulate every surviving patriot…on the revival of this South-land [and] the truth and justice of the ‘Lost Cause,’” Smoot wrote in 1895. Smoot then owned Colross, a W-Old Town Alexandria mansion used as a Union Civil War hospital.

Also in 1893: The U.S. Supreme Court found the Chinese Exclusion Act to be constitutional. “For the first time federal law prohibited entry of an ethnic working group on the premise that it endangered the country’s good order,” the National Archives said.

Miss Wheat grew up in Alexandria. She was not afraid of Jim Crow’s [1877-1954] master obstructionists. Conservative Virginia Democrats

12 December 2023

like U.S. Senator Thomas Staples Martin [Lynchburg, 1895-1919] and the succeeding Harry F. Byrd Organization [1920-1967]; U.S. Representative Howard Worth Smith [Alexandria, 1931-1967] or Byrd relative, State Delegate and Majority Leader James M. Thomson [Alexandria, 1956-1978]. Smith a proponent of “managed race relations” chaired the powerful House Rules Committee starting in 1954, the same year the U.S. Supreme Court decided Brown v. Board of Education [school desegregation].

In 1896 the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a Louisiana law that allowed for equal but separate accommodations for the white and colored races [Plessy v. Ferguson]. “Victims of racial discrimination were told to seek relief not from federal government, but from the states,” the National Archives explained. The Commonwealth’s reply: Support Plessy and Resist Brown. “[T]he problem of the Twentieth Century is the problem of the color line,” Negro-American W.E.B. DuBois wrote in 1903. Education, decent housing and home ownership topped many a Negro’s list. DuBois’ Niagara Movement published its Declaration of Principles in 1905: “Progress: The members of the conference, known as the Niagara Movement...congratulate the NegroAmericans on certain undoubted evidences of progress in the last decade [1895-1905], particularly the increase of intelligence, the buying of property, the checking of crime, the uplift in home life, the advance in literature and art, and the demonstration of constructive and executive ability in the conduct of great religious, economic and educational institutions.”

Virginia Fitzhugh Wheat—a woman ahead of her time—became a real estate entrepreneur in an era when land parcels were designated residential or commercial, white or colored. The Commonwealth’s 1902 Constitution pretty much “eliminated blacks from the franchise:” the number of black Virginians “qualified to vote dropped from

147,000 to 21,000 immediately.”

Virginia was the only child of real estate mogul Harrie Fitzhugh [1866-1912] and Kate Duncan Houck Wheat [1869-1899]; the granddaughter of Benoni [1823-1902] and Matilda Taliafero Fitzhugh Wheat [1831-1885].

Wrote Harrie Wheat in 1912: “I hereby leave & bequeath all my property real & personal…for the sole use & benefit of my only child Virginia Fitzhugh Wheat [age 19]…The trusteeship… shall continue until [my daughter] reaches the age of 40 years, when all…is turned over to [her].” Alexandria city annexed Wheat & Suter’s Subdivision Rosemont, Shooter’s Hill, and Braddock circa 1915.

Also in 1912: The Virginia General Assembly “approved An Act to provide for designation by cities and towns of segregation districts…for residence of white and colored persons.” Why? “[T] o preserve public morals, public health and public order.”

Local segregation ordinances, if approved, designated districts as white or colored depending on whether 50 percent of the inhabitants were white or Negro. Alexandria agreed and de facto segregation became the norm. A la white Rosemont and colored Rosemont as separated by West Street.

VFW’s construal of colored Rosemont was grounded in the broad of the 1912 law. Not in the narrow of the Byrd Organization’s bombast: or Alexandria’s later interpretation of de facto segregation districts. To claim colored Rosemont was four blocks only is ludicrous.

President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s [DNY] introduction of the 1937 Neighborhood Composition Rule—“That [Alexandria’s] public housing [Bland, Andrew Adkins, et.al] should not disturb the pre-existing racial composition of neighborhoods where it was placed”—surprised progressives.

“Paternalists refused to recognize…the

Old Town Crier

development of a larger, more prosperous, and independent black middle class, a class able to vocalize dissatisfaction with inequality,” J. Douglas Smith author of Managing White Supremacy wrote.

In 1917 “Cornelius B. Rite and Harold E. West conveyed the property…Bounded on the north

by Madison Street, on the east by Payne Street, on the south by Wythe Street, and on the west by West Street” to the estate of Harrie F. Wheat for daughter Virginia “TO HAVE AND TO HOLD… forever.”

VFW, Mrs. A.H. Thomas as of 1919 turned 40 in 1933—two years after author James Truslow Adams published his 1931 book The Epic of America. Adams’ notion of the American Dream: “a dream of a social order in which each man and each woman shall be able to attain to the fullest stature of which they are innately capable, and be recognized by others for what they are, regardless of the fortuitous circumstances of birth or position.”

1952 and 1964.

ARHA did not discriminate when it came to acquiring property. In 1952 Colored Rosemont included both black and white land owners.

Widow Virginia Wheat Thomas was among the latter. The Thomas’ and Tucker, Jr.’s, deeds of sale describe ARHA as “a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Virginia, party of the second part.”

Mrs. Thomas’ loss: “Parcels of land…located…in the square bounded by Alfred, Patrick, Madison, and Montgomery Streets.” Tucker, Jr.’s, loss: “Parcels of land…located…in the square bounded

by North Columbus, Madison, North Alfred and Montgomery Streets.” ARHA sued attorney Tucker and Tucker lost—“a home and two lots.” [ARHA v.

Otto L. Tucker, et.als, 1964] Three of Virginia Wheat Thomas’ many minimum model homes have readers curious. Black familyowned dwellings located in Alexandria’s Census Tracts 18 & 16. The first, 603 North Alfred Street

Unlike the Byrd Organization Mrs. Thomas favored black home-ownership, the expansion of Alexandria’s black middle class. Relation William Henry Fitzhugh [1792-1830], national Vice President of the American Colonization Society—a Society that operated from 1816 until 1964—“experimented in giving slave families small farms to operate independently as tenants and buy their freedom.”

Colored Rosemont developed west to east, on land that was once a Wheat & Suter rectangle.

The Library of Congress’ Sanborn [fireproof construction] Maps confirm my four-column content. Mrs. Thomas’ replicated homes were constructed circa 1940, if not before or after.

“By the 1950s, racial segregation in housing… solidified [VFWT’s colored Rosemont],” The Washington Post affirmed. “[It] became the only part of the city of Alexandria where blacks could purchase property.”

In 1952 black realtor Samuel A. Tucker, Jr., a founding member of Alexandria’s NAACP, owned land in colored Rosemont: also his son civil rights attorney Otto L. Tucker. Otto L. was the second black to purchase 1301 Wythe Street, a 1932 Thomas minimum model dwelling. Bottom line: both men forcibly lost their properties to ARHA, in

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“The leading objectors to [ARHA’s Andrew Adkins] location were representatives of…

Alexandria city’s major Negro organization,” The Washington Post wrote in 1962. “They complained that the site includes a number of [about 20] Negroowned…homes which will be leveled.”

“The sole reason for the selection of the site was that its inhabitants are Negroes and that 50% of the dwellings are owned by members of the Negro race,” attorney Tucker told The Washington Post in 1964. “He said buildings in the area ‘provide safe and sanitary dwellings.’”

“Mrs. Thomas was a ‘shero,’” Greene recalled. She left paternalism to the politicians and instead built a burgeoning community of black home-owners.

Proverbs 3.15&18: “She is more precious than rubies; and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her…She is a tree of life to them.”

Columnist’s Reply: On November 17, 2023, NBC/Channel 4 News ran a story on Alexandria’s much debated, highly controversial Affordable Housing Plan. Reporter Cho’s take included a racist reference to the past, Deed Book 153, pg.

215. The Deed of Dedication, dated June 17, 1939, as signed

by Permanesque Homes Village, Inc., describes a city “subdivision to be known as ‘Section Five, Beverly Hills.’”

According to the Deed “no house shall be erected…other than a one-family home. No lot, nor any part thereof, shall be sold rented or in any way conveyed to any person not of the Caucasian race.”

Virginia’s Vision: [Source, Applications for Permit to Build incl. drawings] Small, black-owned, single family, designer-delivered dwellings; one-story with pitched roof, built on solid land, brick on cinder block. Water lines and indoor plumbing: with the builtin potential for expansion [two lots]. Her deeds of sale had “no encumbrances.”

On June 19, 1939, Mrs. Thomas made a landmark purchase.

Property “bounded by Wythe, Payne, West and Pendleton Streets:” as part of her privately-funded, colored housing project.

Coincidentally?—on June 27, 1939, Alexandria’s state-chartered public housing authority, the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority [ARHA] started.

Let’s be honest! The 2008 Braddock Road and Braddock East Small Area Plans failed.

In part because ARHA’s 2012 strategic plan again followed FDR’s Neighborhood Composition Rule.

sold to Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Haggins in January 1949. The Permit to Build was issued in 1940 the house demolished in 2021-2022.

Also: 717 N. Alfred Street. Permitted in 1940, ARHA forcibly obtained the black-owned property circa 1952 then built the dwelling anew, as a rental unit [Lot 6 Subdivision of Block B James Bland].

In 2009 the parcel was given to the city; returned to ARHA in 2010 and the subdivision sold. Mr. and Mrs. John H. Greene purchased their replicated minimum model home—1312 Wythe Street— in June 1949: a house built circa 1940 and still standing.

The telling of integrated history is hard for some to accept. Probably because President Lyndon Johnson’s 1968 Fair Housing Act, the Commonwealth’s 1972 Fair Housing Law were Alexandria’s middle class blacks’ path to freedom.

According to the U.S. Census, Tract 16 was 99% black in 1950, 15% black in 1980.

“Where there is no vision the people perish,” President Johnson quoted. In 1969 State Delegate Thomson, a Byrd loyalist “spoke against passage of Alexandria’s open housing ordinance.”

Two days later on June 19, 1939, Mrs. A.H. Thomas as noted above purchased property “bounded by Wythe, Payne, West and Pendleton Streets” in what is now known as Colored Rosemont. How, given the comparison can anyone doubt the magnitude of Mrs. Thomas undertaking, her dedication to the construction of black-owned single-family homes? For starters unlike Homes Village her Deeds of Sale have no racially restrictive covenants. Not only was Virginia Fitzhugh Wheat Thomas an abolitionistminded angel, she was also a political mutineer.

Sarah Becker started writing for The Economist while a graduate student in England. Similar publications followed. She joined the Crier in 1996 while serving on the Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association Board. Her interest in antiquities began as a World Bank hire, with Indonesia’s need to generate hard currency.

Balinese history, i.e. tourism provided the means.

The New York Times describes Becker’s book, Off Your Duffs & Up the Assets, as “a blueprint for thousands of nonprofit managers.” A former museum director, SLAM’s saving grace Sarah received Alexandria’s Salute to Women Award in 2007. Email: abitofhistory53@gmail.com

December 2023 13

GALLERY BEAT

F. LENNOX CAMPELLO

Watson and the Shark

"Trite" but "True" “Art is in the eyes of the beholder” is easily both the most trite and yet truest art saying in existence. I have both empirical and anecdotal evidence.

When I was a student at the University of Washington School of Art, I used to sell all my art school assignments at the Pike Place Market in Seattle. I did this through my graduation in 1981, and in the process learned a lot of great lessons in the art of selling art.

One of them deals directly with the aforementioned saying. Here’s my anecdotal evidence: Imagine the horrors that come out of an art school assignment in which objects are put inside a brown paper bag, which is then stapled shut and the task

ART& ANTIQUES

is to draw the items inside the bag by feeling them through the paper bag.

This assignment, matted and shrink-wrapped sits in the display bin at my space at the market for several years, seen and passed on by tens of thousands of visitors to my space at the Market. One day, someone pulls it out, looks at it, and turns to her friend and smiles as she says: “I LOVE THIS!” From the other side of the table, my hands in my pocket to keep them warm from Seattle’s ever present liquid sunshine, I think to myself: “WHY?” Answer: Because art is in the eyes of the beholder.

Here’s my empirical evidence and a fun thing to do

A Galerie 315 Cameron Street

St. George Gallery 105 N. Alfred Street

Jeffrey Winter Fine Arts 110A S. Columbus Street

Random Harvest 810 King Street

The Art League 105 Union Street

Old Town Antiques 222 S. Washington Street

Acme Mid-Century + Modern 128 S. Royal Street

Local Colour Old Town 218 N. Lee Street

Johnston Matthew 105 N. Union Street

Verdigris Vintage 1215 King Street

Van Bommel Antiek Hous 1007 King Street

Imperfections Antiques 1210 King Street

Cavalier Antiques 400 Prince Street

Lloyd’s Row 119 S. Henry Street

B&B Art Gallery 215 King Street

The Antique Guild 113 N. Fairfax Street

Sumpter Priddy III 323 S. Washington Street

GALLERIES

Enamelist’s Gallery 105 N. Union Street

Silverman Galleries 110 N. St. Asaph Street

Henry Street Antiques 115 S. Henry Street

Torpedo Factory Art Center 105 N. Union Street

Printmakers, Inc. 105 N. Union Street

Washington Square Antiques 425 S. Washington Street

Curzon Hill Antiques 108 S. Columbus Street

Principle Gallery 208 King Street

Kelly’s Art & Frame 510 N. Washington Street

Betty Grisham Studio 105 N. Union Street

The Hour 1015 King Street

Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery 105 N. Union Street

Oerth Gallery 420 S. Washington Street

Imagine Artwear 112 King Street

ANTIQUES Spurgeon-Lewis Antiques 112 N. Columbus Street BW Art, Antiques & Collectibles 108 N. Fayette Street

Susquehanna Antique Co. 608 Cameron Street

14 December 2023

the next time that you visit a museum.

Icon Galleria 101 N. Union Street

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

Pick a painting, any painting in the museum, preferably one that has a couch nearby to rest your tuchis as you conduct the evidence gathering.

Notice the museum visitors as the walk slowly through the edges of the museum, looking at the artwork on the walls at a slow walking pace… keep your eyes on just one painting, photo, whatever on the wall, and you’ll notice most people walk by it, some read the wall text with title, artist, media, year, etc., and move on.

And then, every few dozen or hundred or so, someone STOPS in front of the artwork, as if an invisible magnet has reached and glued them to the Exclusively representing the works of

“A woman F. Lennox Campello in love with Price and additional images upon request. abstraction” - 2021

“ONE OF 16x20 watercolor on THE MOST paper with embedded electronic images that INTERESTING rotate every PEOPLE OF5 seconds.

WASHINGTON, DC” – Washington City Paper

Exclusively representing the works of

F. Lennox Campello Syreni Caledonii (Northern Atlantic Mermaid). Watercolor,

charcoal and Conte. 2019, 12x36 inches.

Price and additional images upon request.

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

Old Town Crier

work. Their eyes and body language tell the story of being mesmerized and hypnotized by the art.

What this particular work?

Art is in the eyes of the beholder.

This of course, also works when you develop a “favorite” work of art in a particular museum.

Mine is Watson and the Shark by John Singleton Copley at the National Gallery of Art. Copley’s gorgeous painting depicts an event that took place in Havana harbor, Cuba, in 1748.

The naked guy in the water is fourteen-year-old Brook Watson, who was attacked by a shark while swimming alone in Havana harbor. Lucky for Watson, some of his mates were already at sea waiting to escort their captain ashore, and were able to fight the shark and rescue Watson, although the shark bit one of his legs off. On his return to England, he got his fifteen minutes of fame and Copley painted this work.

If you study the painting carefully, you will realize that Copley probably had never seen a shark in his life, and his depiction of the great white in Havana harbor yields one of the most ungainly and ugliest non-sharks fish things ever painted.

I love to sit in front of this painting and watch people as they walk by and get mesmerized by the brutal event taking place and kids making fun of the shark.

What is your favorite work of art? Not just DC, but from wherever you hail from?

About the Author: F. Lennox Campello's art news, information, gallery openings, commentary, criticism, happenings, opportunities, and everything associated with the global visual arts scene with a special focus on the Greater Washington, DC area has been a premier source for the art community for over 20 years. Since 2003, his blog has been the 11th highest ranked art blog on the planet with over SIX million visitors.

Author Lenny Campello at Pikes Place Market in Seattle circa 1980

Have a handcrafted

holiday

this year!

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915 King Street, Old Town Alexandria | 703-684-1435

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December 2023 15

HIGH NOTES

RON POWERS

Christmas Ain't

Christmas Without You

T

he Christmas season is upon us and the immortal Cher has a new Christmas album to help us get into the spirit. The album is called Christmas and I’d like to share a little about the stand out track, “Christmas Ain’t Christmas Without You”. This song has all the trimmings that come with great holiday music and offers a vintage feel with a modern touch. With festive bells, bopping drums, and exciting auto tuned vocals, “Christmas Ain’t Christmas Without You” just might warm your heart and get your butt moving all at once.

Like many other holiday songs, this festive tune gets things started with the sound of sleigh bells. This is followed by distant and shimmering synth strings, rich bell sounds, and a snare drum roll that glides into the verse like a sled over freshly fallen snow. With her one of a kind voice, Cher delivers a melody that hits the ears like a holiday classic. Under the vocals we hear bright guitar chords played with a staccato quarter note rhythm giving the song an irresistible fun feeling. Sustained Lead guitar notes layered with Christmas bells are also added to the mix. This creates a deeper feeling amongst the sugary pop arrangement and adds width and height to the music.

Next, Cr whisks the listener to the chorus adding string like synth pads and backing vocals processed with generous amounts of reverb. Additional energy is packed in through the faster paced vocal melody giving lift and contrast to the verse. The four-on-the-floor drum beat keeps toes tapping while sprinkles of timpani drums deepen the groove. Finally, a layer of pizzazz is added by way of a crispy horn section giving this new song an old time Phil Spector Christmas vibe. This bump of musical volume to the chorus has all the spirit lifting power and holiday cheer you could ask for from a Christmas song.

After a couple verses and chorus sections Cher mixes it up with a middle eight that stuffs even more flavor into this treat of a song. Here the brass section is emphasized while still maintaining plenty of headroom for the vocals to shine. Additionally, a fresh melody line performed with bells sprinkles a little extra Christmas spirit on the track. Cher’s one of a kind voice pulls the listener in with the lines, “If I could make the miles between us melt away / You'd be right beside me, baby, on a perfect Christmas day”.

Besides the new Christmas music, Cher is celebrating the 25th anniversary of her 1998 hit album Believe. To mark the occasion Cher is offering a 3LP Deluxe edition of the record that includes the original album plus two remastered and remixed versions. You can find the deluxe edition of Believe along with the new Christmas music on Cher’s Shopify store. If you’d like to listen to “Christmas Ain't Christmas Without You” you can find it on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and most other places music is streamed or sold. If you’ve been trapped underground in a doomsday shelter for several decades and you don’t know who Cher is, you can learn more about her on TikTok, Instagram, X, and Facebook.

AFTER HOURS Birchmere 703.549.7500 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave. birchmere.com The Blackwall Hitch 571-982-3577 5 Cameron St. theblackwallhitch.com Chadwicks 203 S. Strand St. 703.836.4442 Evening Star Cafe 703.549.5051 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave. The Fish Market 703.836.5676 105 King St. fishmarketoldtown.com

These establishments offer live entertainment. Call to confirm show times, dates and cover charges. Check our advertisers’ websites.

La Portas 703.683.6313 1600 Duke St. The Light Horse 703.549.0533 715 King St. lighthorserestaurant.com Murphys Irish Pub 703.548.1717 713 King St. murphyspub.com O’Connell’s 703.739.1124 112 King St. Rock It Grill 703.739.2274 1319 King St.

Shooter McGees 703.751.9266 5239 Duke St. shootermcgees.com Southside 815 703.836.6222 815 S. Washington St. St. Elmos 703.739.9268 2300 Mt. Vernon Ave. Taverna Cretekou 703.548.8688 818 King St. TJ Stones 703.548.1004 608 Montgomery St. tjstones.com

The Study 703-838-8000 116 South Alfred Two Nineteen 703.549.1141 219 King St. Alexandria Bier Garden 710 King St. 703-888-1951 Augie's Mussel House 703.721.3970 1106 King St. eataugies.com Mason Social 703.548.8800 728 N. Henry St.

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

16 December 2023

Old Town Crier

SPECIAL FEATURE

MARK EDELMAN

ON STAGE Old Town – December Theaters in the DMV are lit up brightly for the holidays in December with no fewer than three A Christmas Carols among the batch. Check out these fine productions this month, live! onstage at a theater near you:

in a three hundred seat theater. No skimping here. If you see a show besides A Christmas Carol this month, put Ragtime on your list.

Tickets at www.signaturetheater.org.

RAGTIME

Folger Theatre

THE WINTER’S TALE Now thru December 17 With the magic and fantastical elements of a fairy tale, Shakespeare’s late career romance takes us on a journey filled with fascinating characters, complex relationships— and a bear chasing everyone around.

One of the Bard’s more complex offerings. Tickets at www.folger.edu FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Olney Theatre

Signature Theater Now thru January 7 If there’s a show of the month, it’s got to be this gorgeous production of the award-winning musical based on E. L. Doctorow’s novel about turn of the century (1890-1910) America. Odd choice for the holiday season you say?

Well, both the Christmas story and Ragtime introduce us to a new way to live our lives. Or as a luminous Teal Wicks as Mother sings, “we can never go back to before.”

Besides Wicks, stand-out performances include handsome Nkrumah Gatling as Coalhouse Walker (think a beefier Denzel but with a voice from heaven). Bill English found the pathos in the difficult role of Father and Dani Stoller the earthiness in Emma Goldman. Awa Sal Secka made a moving Sarah and the rest of the cast was first rate throughout.

The topography of Signature’s Max Stage worked well for this Ragtime, with Artistic Director Matthew Gardiner stylishly moving the story from below to above and up and down the aisles. And speaking of above, how about that seventeen piece orchestra? In an era when touring Broadway shows send out twelve in the pit with keyboards covering reeds and strings, it’s a joy to hear this beautiful score fully-realized

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Now thru December 31 What better way to celebrate the holidays than with this crowdpleasing Broadway classic? Tevye the milkman has three daughters he hopes to marry off to rich men. The girls have other ideas. What’s a father to do? Tickets at www.olneytheatre. org MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET Toby’s Dinner Theatre Now thru January 7 The holiday classic becomes a Broadway musical in this adaptation of the film about a young girl who doubts the existence of Santa Claus until a very special old man changes her mind. Tickets at www. tobysdinnertheatre.com PUBLIC OBSCENITIES Woolly Mammoth Now thru December 23 A bi-lingual—Bengali and English— play about coming home to the things we see, the things we miss and the things that turn us on. A grandfather’s photograph exposes some of the unspoken past that threatens to come between a Kolkota native and his Black American boyfriend. Tickets at www.woollymammoth.net A CHRISTMAS CAROL Ford’s Theatre Now thru December 31

Old Abe might have made it through the performance if John Wilkes Booth had been playing the lovable old Ebenezeer Scrooge instead of an angry segregationist. The holiday classic, always a favorite at Ford’s.

Tickets at www.fords.org

Tickets at www.nextstoptheatre.org AS YOU LIKE IT

SWEPT AWAY Arena Stage Now thru December 30 With the bookwriter of Moulin Rouge, the director of Spring Awakening and Thoroughly Modern Millie and award-winning Broadway actors John Gallagher, Jr and Stark Sands, the Arena’s holiday entry sounds NYC-bound. The Avett Brothers new musical about the four survivors of a whaling ship disaster explores how facing tragedy can open the door to forgiveness, if we only let it. Tickets at www.arenastage.org MOSES Theatre J Now thru December 24 A world premier about faith, love and going it alone, this one man show takes us on a singular journey to find forgiveness, a long-lost dream, and the man himself. Tickets at www. theatrej.org A CHRISTMAS CAROL Alexandria Little Theatre Now thru December 16 Join all your favorite Dickens characters – Tiny Tim and the Cratchit family; the Fezziwigs; the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come; and, of course, everyone’s favorite curmudgeon, Ebenezer Scrooge – as they transport us back to Victorian England in this holiday classic. Tickets at www. thelittletheatre.com A STEAMPUNK CHRISTMAS CAROL Next Stop Theatre Now thru December 17 Ebenezer Scrooge’s Phantasmagorical Holiday Adventure marks its tenth anniversary, a “by kids for kids” holiday tradition suitable for the whole family. Expect an imaginative retelling of this beloved holiday story.

Shakespeare Theatre Company Now thru December 31 In this hippie-dippie adaptation of the Bard’s youthful comedy, Beatles tunes, mixed signals and mistaken identities make for a total blast this holiday season. Rosalind and the gang discover that “all you need is love” in this sometimes silly take on one of Shakespeare’s lighter efforts. Tickets at www.shakespearetheatre.org.

THE SEAFARER Round House Theatre December 6-31 Conor McPherson’s riveting play, set on a stormy Irish coast, brings a pair of down-on-their-luck brothers together to confront their pasts and fight for their futures. The dark comedy celebrates camaraderie and the hope provided by second chances.

Tickets at www.roundhousetheatre. org THE SNOW MAIDEN Synetic Theater Dec 9- Jan 6 Arlington’s renowned physical theater company presents a holiday tale about a boy whose snow friends miraculously comes to life. Their time together is full of mischief and laughter, but can the cold winter keep their friendship alive forever? Tickets at www.synetictheater.org About the Author: Mark Edelman is a playwright who loves writing about theater. He is a lifetime member of the Broadway League and a Tony voter.

December 2023 17

LAST WORD

MIRIAM R. KRAMER

Dark Mysteries & December Festivities Few kill time during the holidays. There’s just too much to say, cook, and do.

That being said, you may dedicate your spare, scattered hours to reading in between your travels to visit family or preparations to welcome them. I know that if I don’t have a chance to read and refresh myself, I don’t feel prepared to do too much else. This month two new mysteries impressed me: The Running Grave, by Robert Galbraith, and Black River, by Matthew Spencer.

potential minefields to maintain connections with fanatics brainwashed by the cult. The leaders abusing their powers see her as their next potential victim and wonder at her independent turn of mind. I thought of Scientology when they punish Robin for not giving enough money to the cult, since Scientologists must pay significant amounts to have the opportunity to achieve higher levels of enlightenment.

The Running Grave serves as the seventh installment in the popular series J.K. Rowling writes under the nom de plume Robert Galbraith. If you have read my column for a while, you will know that I panned its predecessor, The Ink Black Heart, for its verbosity, sloth-like pace, and difficult-to-read layout that involved long side-by-side phone texts between characters. Nor did I care what happened to any of its characters. Rowling is not known to stint her words, and she badly needed an editor to stand up to her and prune it back. I even thought of not reading the next book.

I really enjoyed this novel because it contained a clear storyline and an inside look at an all-too-common scenario in which people give up agency for the ease of being told what to do. I also thought that Rowling’s focus on Cormoran’s understanding of himself, his past, and his need to seize the day was a welcome change in this series. I would recommend the novel for its lively storytelling, compelling hero and heroine, grisliness, humor, and self-reflection.

Luckily, I can report the opposite for this next novel in the series. The Running Grave, while long, had me looking forward to returning to it after taking a break. Cormoran Strike, ex-military police and private detective, and Robin Ellacott, who starts as secretary and becomes his partner at the agency, have matured over the years they have worked together. Their sexual tension has remained on a slow boil as they distract themselves with other romantic or sexual partners.

In The Running Grave, Robin goes undercover as Rowena Ellis at a cult in Norfolk, England, known as the Universal Humanitarian Church (UHC).

She and Cormoran have taken on a client who wants to persuade his son to come home. She poses as a gullible, wealthy woman who goes on a weeklong retreat and allows herself to be persuaded to stay. Before she goes, her agency partner realizes he lived at the dodgy communal farm as a child with his half-sister and drugged-up, groupie mother, Leda. Rowling sets the scene with his memories of his time there, in the same way that Matthew Spencer does with his reporter character in Black River.

While Robin ensconces herself within the church’s community and hierarchy, Strike deals with the day-to-day difficulty of finding good PIs for the agency, handling the bad ones, and solving other crimes the agency has on its books. His burgeoning feelings for Robin bubble over so he becomes jealous of her policeman boyfriend. His worry for her often overtakes him as agency members keep in touch with her weekly through a hole in the fence around the church’s farm In the meantime, Robin desperately strives to maintain her sense of self and sanity, as she is exposed to indoctrination to worship false UHC prophets based on dead former members of the church. While working to contact her client’s son, she also discovers a potential murder mystery to investigate in her minimal spare time.

Rowling has done her research in depicting the psychological pressures put on people in cults. This long book moves at a fast pace, as she vividly paints a picture of Robin, deprived of sleep and food, tap dancing her way through 18 December 2023

Black River, by Matthew Spencer, features other charms. Spencer’s writer’s voice is worth reading for his language alone, particularly in comparison with many well-known authors who churn out junk food bestsellers that sell well despite their quality. He writes with spare, punchy language this story featuring Adam Bowman, a reporter outside of Sydney, Australia, and Detective Sergeant Rose Riley, a tough policewoman with the requisite drive and perspective to rise through the ranks.

Adam, enduring a low-level midlife crisis, meets Rose in reporting on the murder of a woman who lives on the grounds of a prestigious private high school for rich and well-connected boys. The chaplain’s daughter, she has been found on the grounds wrapped in black plastic like the victims of a serial killer who has been prowling and killing women on a local river. Adam himself attended the school as the son of the chaplain at that time, and also lived at her house, Ghost Gum. Rose uses Adam to release information to the public at crucial times, and he uses her as an inside source. As Rose and her fellow officers on the Satyr Strike Force investigate school personnel, Adam’s relevant past at Ghost Gum and his alma mater informs the present, coloring his views and creating links that help him guide Rose. Tension rises as they explore corruption at the school to see how it guides the murder investigation, and become reluctant colleagues.

This book is the first in a series featuring Rose Riley. I am intrigued to know more about her. I want to see how her character reveals more about the person behind the cynicism and the reasons driving what she does.

If there is anything that bothers me about much detective fiction, it is the simplistic language and emphasis on plot over character as a way to hook people into buying a fast, disposable read. Here Matthew Spencer writes economically but with verve and an accurate eye. His characters come to life.

This novel’s dark, gritty atmosphere, punctuated with vivid police jargon and Australian slang, kept me reading.

So, I recommend both of these mysteries that surpass the usual airplane novel in their complexity and compulsive readability. If you need a change from holiday cheer, this is a way to escape to England or Australia for a hardboiled literary fix.

Old Town Crier

FINANCIAL FOCUS

CARL TREVISAN, CFP© & STEPHEN BEARCE

Pros & Cons of Dividend-Paying Stocks

A dividend is a portion of a company’s profit that’s paid to shareholders. That means dividend-paying stocks may provide a source of income. But they can also carry some degree of risk.

So, what do investors need to consider when it comes to dividend-paying stocks? In this Q&A, Austin Pickle, senior wealth investment solutions analyst with Wells Fargo Investment Institute, provides important information for investors to keep in mind.

1. What are the potential benefits of dividendpaying stocks?

“One of the big benefits is that these stocks may provide a more reliable income stream compared to some other investment options,” Pickle says.

Companies tend to issue dividends on a routine basis, such as quarterly or semi-annually, which may create a dependable income stream. Another benefit? The stocks can yield some favorable tax treatment.

“It’s going to depend on your tax

situation,” Pickle says, “but in general, you may have a relatively lower tax rate for dividends compared to income gained by selling investments.” As long as the dividend-paying stock meets IRS requirements for a qualified dividend, the dividend is taxed at the lower long-term capital gains tax rate instead of being taxed as regular capital gains income. “So an investor could receive income from a dividend-paying stock without selling the stock and have a lower tax bill compared to that of a non-dividend-paying stock, which must be sold to receive income,” he says.

2. Who should include dividend-paying stocks in their portfolio?

Many types of investors have the potential to benefit from dividendpaying stocks. “But these stocks may be more valuable for investors who are a bit older — maybe those in retirement or close to retirement who really value a more reliable income stream,” Pickle says. “I think they’re typically beneficial from a diversification perspective, especially when interest rates are low. Dividend-paying stocks tend

to have an inverse relationship with interest rates: When interest rates go down, you may see some of these dividend-paying stocks perform better.”

3. What are the risks associated with dividendpaying stocks?

“Firms can reduce or cancel their dividends — especially during times of economic uncertainty and times of crisis,” says Pickle. “And there’s still the risk that dividends could be cut periodically, even without the trigger of a crisis event. And if tax rates change, it could mean you’d pay more, as well.”

4. Explore your options with professional advisors Pickle stresses that investors should discuss the pros and cons of dividend-paying stocks with a financial advisor to help make sure they fill a need within an individual investment portfolio and make sense for a specific financial situation.

“You should also talk to your CPA or tax professional to make sure that you understand what

the tax consequences are for your particular situation,” he advises.

Equity securities are subject to market risk, which means their value may fluctuate in response to general economic and market conditions, the prospects of individual companies, and industry sectors. Investments in equity securities are generally more volatile that other types of securities. There is no guarantee that dividend-paying stocks will return more than the overall stock market. Dividends are not guaranteed and are subject to change or elimination.

Wells Fargo Investment Institute, Inc. is a registered investment adviser and wholly owned subsidiary of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., a bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Our firm does not provide legal or tax advice. This article was written by/for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Carl M. Trevisan, Managing DirectorInvestments and Stephen M. Bearce, First Vice PresidentInvestments in Alexandria, VA at 800-247-8602.

Investment and Insurance Products are: • Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency • Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate • Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested ©2021-2023 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

Old Town Crier

December 2023 19

FROM THE BAY

ERIK EVANS

Ben Connolly

Live

Midnight is

in Solomons 6-9 pm

Madness

in Annapolis!

Tuesdays- CD Café/Next Door Lounge 14350 Solomons Island Road 410-326-3877 Wednesdays- Charles Street Brasserie 120 Charles Street 443-404-5332 Thursdays- Bugeye Restaurant & Grill 14470 Solomons Island Road 443-214-2516 Fridays- Ruddy Duck 13200 Dowell Road 410-975-7421

The first three Thursday nights in December are the biggest and most fun nights of the year to shop in downtown Annapolis. It’s the annual Midnight Madness shopping nights on December 7, and 14, when stores and restaurants stay open until Midnight, and on December 21 the Eleventh Hour they stay open until 11 pm at about 90 stores and 80 restaurants in downtown Annapolis, Maryland.

The downtown Annapolis area, including West Street, Maryland Ave, Main Street, and the City Dock area will be filled with traditional holiday decorations including beautiful storefront windows, garland, wreaths, holiday lights, a snowflake alley on Main Street, light canopies over Maryland Ave and West Street, a large real Christmas tree, and a menorah near the Market House.

The local shops and restaurants are ready for you to enjoy late-night shopping and dinner with your family. You will find that downtown Annapolis is a vibrant, and festive place to shop. When you add in the on-street entertainment you will understand why Annapolis is rated as one of the top Christmas towns in the nation.

m A Most Cozy Wintertime Place!

Several new shops can be found this year on West Street, Maryland Ave, Fleet Street, and Main Street alongside your favorite long-time businesses. The Downtown Annapolis Partnership Ambassadors will be out strolling the sidewalks to assist visitors with directions, parking questions, etc.

d A unique shopping and dining experience!

For the first Midnight Madness (Dec 7) you can also enjoy the opening night of Annapolis Holiday Market on City Dock from 4 pm to 10 pm. The Dec 21st Midnight Madness is perfect for procrastinators as it is the Eleventh Hour of the shopping season.

Free and discounted parking is abundant during the holiday season in downtown Annapolis. The Calvert Street Parking Garage (19 St Johns Street) has free parking Monday through Friday from 6 pm to 6 am, and free parking all day Saturday and Sunday. The City of Annapolis is offering 2-hour free parking on commercial streets when you enter the code ParkDTA in the Park mobile App. and the first hour is free parking in the new Hillman Garage on Gorman Street when you use the Parkmobile App. Whitmore Parking Garage (25 Clay Street) is offering $2 parking every day from 4 pm to 6 am. The free circulator bus is operating extended late-night hours during all Midnight Madness events and will pick you up and drop you off at the Park Place and Knighton parking garages and take you downtown.

For additional information on Midnight Madness, lodging, shopping, restaurants, sponsors and other downtown Annapolis events visit the Downtown Annapolis Partnership’s website at http://www.midnightmadnessannapolis.com Photo provided by Downtown Annapolis Partnership.

20 December 2023

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Old Town Crier

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Christmas Decorating: Traditional or Modern?

S

ome purists don't use Christmas lights at all, just greenery: live garlands, handmade wreaths and real trees decorated with red ribbon and often little else. Others consider the mid-century larger bulbs on a string “old school” and still others have never had a live tree. From yards of greenery to laser light shows and giant inflatable Santas, trends and tastes change, and nowhere is this more obvious than in the kind of Christmas decorating and trees we prefer.

As age and space needs shrink and children grow up and leave the nest, many of us have gone to using artificial trees, even if in our younger days, we hated them. Today's artificial trees have come a long way and there are so many different types and styles that there's something for every taste. We are putting up two little artificial trees this year, although not in November or even the first two weeks of December. Part of me cringes internally, remembering Mom’s scathing comments about fake trees when we were growing up. Nice people didn’t use those tawdry things; they put up real trees that the family went out and chose. A nice big ceiling height fresh one as late in the month as possible and it never went up before December 20th. No artificial tree could make the house smell that nice. We even had a few live ones with root balls way before tree hugging was fashionable, and those pretty pines now grace the front yards of two of the houses we lived in when I was a child.

Not until I was an adult did the cut-yourown Christmas tree farms get as popular as they are now. Of course, there weren't any farms in Alexandria, but as I've lived in rural areas for the past several decades, I've had neighbors who farmed Christmas trees and I've even cut my own a few times. There are some fabulous Christmas tree farms in the hunt country in both Loudoun and Fauquier counties, some even offer refreshments and all will net up the tree and help you tie it to your luggage rack. The Christmas tree farms mostly carry several different types of both short and long-needled trees, but if your heart is set on a particular type, it's best to check first.

Cutting one from your own farm sounds more glamorous than it is. It's almost

22 December 2023

impossible to find a pretty variety of long or short needle pine tree suitably sized and even remotely Christmas tree shaped, other than cedar trees. Although cedar wood smells pleasant, the stubby prickly foliage sometimes smells distinctly like cat urine. But they are narrow, fit in small spaces and not everyone thinks they stink.

They also grow everywhere in Virginia.

The most memorable was a perfectly shaped beauty I spotted while out trail riding with friends on the farm where I lived at the time.

That perfect little tree was in a spot not accessible by a vehicle so we had the genius idea to saw it down and drag it back with one of the horses. Once felled, we tied a rope around it and attached the end to my saddle. As there was still a lot of snow on the ground, I figured it would slide along easily. Piece of cake, right?

It wasn't that far to the barn, less than a mile. The young horse I was riding had only been ridden about a dozen times and although he was sensible for his age, the tree bumping along behind him must've seemed like a stalking mountain lion ready to pounce. Still, I was able to keep him to a nervous jog until we went down a hill and the prickly tree slammed into his back end. This was too much—he exploded into a bucking fit, dumping me and taking off.

He didn't get far, the rope caught on a tree and I was able to catch him. We walked the rest of the way home, my friends belly laughing as I dragged the tree and led the horse, who snorted and danced sideways still eyeing it in terror. That year I told people I actually liked the smell of cedar.

Some of the newer trends in Christmas lights are wonderful for decorating. Tiny little twinkling bulbs on a string where they all continue to work their magic even if one burns out can create magical holiday effects. But they do tangle horribly if not stored properly after the season.

And the newer artificial trees, life size and table top, come in such a wide variety that nearly anyone can find one they like.

Plus, it's so much easier to put them up.

However, we'll never have blow-up Santas and gaudy laser light shows festooning our home. In fact, out here we don't use lights at all, but then again, we are tucked in a wooded hollow far off the road with no one to see them but us. Merry Christmas to all!

One of the author’s dogs, Der, decorated for the season.

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W

e have been writing Road Trip articles for at least 30 of the almost 36 years we’ve been in publication.

They began as a story about a destination near Alexandria. Then we got into Day Tripping when I had my 1974 Fiat Spider which was perfect for a day’s excursion.

As our publication grew, we expanded our focus and ventured farther out. Most of these involved an overnight stay near the destination and in fact, sometimes the destination was the place we stayed. However, occasionally our trips are local like last month’s Road Trip to the Museum of the United States Army.

A number of years ago we decided to write about our beautiful Old Town Alexandria every December as this is a time to stay home with family and friends…Welcome Home. It is also a good time for those who reside between the Bay and the Blue Ridge to plan a Road Trip to Old Town Alexandria.

I will start with a brief history of what it was like when I arrived in 1977. Old Town was approximately six blocks long. It was King Street from the Potomac River to Washington Street. There were a few restaurants on the other side of Washington Street but only a few…the concentration was near the water in the old seaport town which was founded in 1749. Old Town, as we know it today, was in its infancy. The town’s daring merchants transformed a neglected area and gave it a heartbeat. When I arrived, there was live music in almost every restaurant, mostly local folks playing their own music while covering favorite songs for their dedicated customers. Parking was plentiful and pedestrian traffic was minimal…but what a good time!

Today, over time and like the Old Town Crier, things have changed. The town is now one of the most vibrant waterfront cities on the east coast. Some of the places that provided music are now gone replaced by more multi-owned stores whether that be National or local. The pace is faster and pedestrian traffic has grown exponentially. Still, the history and natural beauty of this town does not change.

The waterfront along the Potomac River has had a nice facelift that includes a pedestrian walkway and boardwalk that runs

During the pandemic, in order to provide more restaurant seating to accommodate social distancing, the city closed off the 100 block of King Street to allow more outdoor seating and created a pedestrian walk way in the street. That remains in effect today while other restaurants offer outdoor dining year-round with heated areas during the colder months. The effort was well worth it as King Street blossomed and more foot traffic was created on the waterfront for those businesses as well.

Today “Old Town” extends much farther up King Street as far as to the Metro. There has been much growth and discovery of that part of town. You can find every kind of restaurant as well as many independent shops catering to those who venture out.

In addition to the selection of great restaurants, Old Town has independent jewelry shops with their own craftsmen, independent clothing stores that carry one-of-a-kind designs, a number of shops selling specialty items and hard to find gifts.

pretty much its entire length. The replica of the Tall Ship Providence is now based on the waterfront and is available for tours and excursions.

Named one of the area’s top shopping destinations by the Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal, Old Town boasts a blend of independent galleries, stylish boutiques, vintage shops and national retailers. A good resource of great shopping and dining are the advertisers in this publication, after all, they are the reason we can go to press each month.

Named one of Travel + Leisure’s Best Places to Travel in 2023 and Best Cities in the U.S. 2023 and one of Good Housekeeping’s Best Places to Travel in December 2023, Alexandria is filled with nostalgic wonder during the holiday season. Our nationally designated historic district is home to over 200 independent restaurants and boutiques alongside historic museums and growing every year.

We hope that you have an enjoyable time while visiting Old Town Alexandria.

There is so much to do, that it makes sense to spend a night at one of our beautiful hotels scattered throughout town. Don’t miss Santa waterskiing down the Potomac on Christmas Eve and the fireworks on the 31st celebrating First Night! Enjoy the holiday hospitality of Alexandria and make plans to come back in the new year. All photos courtesy of Lee Moody.

24 December 2023

Old Town Crier

Home for the Holidays 2023

Old Town Crier

December 2023 25

CARIBBEAN CONNECTION SUITE LIFE YACHTING

Christmas in the Caribbean

Many travelers choose to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands over the Christmas season for several reasons. December kicks off the tourist season in the USVI (which, yes, could mean higher tourist rates at big resorts and hotels — just one reason why you might want to consider staying on a yacht charter instead). You’ll find warm temperatures in the 80s during the day and cooler, windier temperatures at night. Not to mention, there’s plenty to do and see in December, from can’t-miss holiday events to activities the region is known for, like snorkeling.

The best part is American travelers find visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands incredibly easy. As an American territory, the islands are accessible with no passport or special documentation required, and travelers can often expect the same level of service and basic amenities that they could in any American destination. The territory’s primary airport is located on St. Thomas, but from there, travelers can easily head out by boat to the territory’s other two islands, St. Croix and St. John. ​​The Crucian Christmas Festival The St. Croix Crucian Christmas Festival and Carnival is a month-long celebration that is one of the largest and most popular that the territory hosts.

Events take place starting the first weekend in December and then last all through the first weekend in January (which also means that, if you want to catch some Christmas fun in the islands, but don’t want to miss the actual Christmas holiday with your family in the States, it’s totally possible to have both!).

Events mainly take place in the St. Croix cities of Christiansted and Frederiksted. Expect calypso shows, Latin live music, classic St. Croix cuisine (the island is known for its amazing food!), parades, street parties and more. ​​Christmas Traditions in the U.S. Virgin Islands Want to make your Christmas in the USVI as authentic as possible? There are a few fun ways to do so, and it starts with your Christmas meal. Guavaberry rum, sweet bread and ham are standard (and delicious!) Christmas Day fare.

You can also catch amazing live musicians performing your favorite Christmas carols at the annual Challenge of Carols event at Emancipation Garden on St. Thomas. A short stroll away from this park enjoy a walk along the waterfront promenade, with seating and steps down to the water for all to enjoy. Watch the beautiful sunset on Charlotte Amalie Bay as you toast from one of the many elegant and casual dining areas on the waterfront. Top of your night by watching the annual boat parade! Spectators on the waterfront are active participants in the parade as they catch the candy Christmas treats tossed from the passing boats.

Egg Nog Caribbean Style There is a popular Christmas song in the Virgin Islands that goes “Good Mornin, Good Mornin, ah come fo’ me Guavaberry; Good Mornin, Good Mornin to you and all your family”. It was written by the late, Virgin Islands’ composer Bill 26 December 2023

La Motta and is known as the Guavaberry Song. It is popular and cherished because it celebrates the very special Christmas tradition of Guavaberry Rum. People in the Caribbean began making Guavaberry liquor centuries ago by mixing together guavaberries, rum and sugar. It is most popular in the Virgin Islands, St. Maarten and in the Dominican Republic’s eastern town of San Pedro de Macoris which has a large population of Eastern Caribbean descent. The liqueur has a fruity, spicy, bitter yet sweet taste. It is very hard to find outside of the Caribbean.

In the Virgin Islands handmade Guavaberry Rum is produced using family recipes. The drink is made of rum, spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, sugar, guavaberries and a few other secret ingredients! Traditionally the ingredients are placed together in a large glass demijohn and put away to blend for several weeks until Christmas of that year, or for better blending and aging until the following year. It is considered a special part of local tradition and culture.

Mention Guavaberry to an older member of the community and a sense of nostalgia takes over of Christmas in the old days and of community. Holidays of yesteryear often included friends and family caroling house to house within their circle or neighborhood. The stops included a few snacks and a drink, most often a small sample of the family’s Guavaberry Rum. Today Guavaberry Rum is still a very important part of Christmas celebrations.

Families during the holidays often have discussions about who has made the best Guavaberry. For those that still make it their Guavaberry Rum provides a sense of pride, a continuation of heritage and of Christmas tradition.

Spend the Holiday Season Island Hopping!

While it is too late to swap your Christmas tree out for palm trees this year, it isn’t too early to plan a trip to the beautiful Virgin Islands over the Christmas holiday next year. There’s no better time to get away from the snow and slush than during one of the most festive times of year.

The Virgin Islands know how to throw a party, and the same can be said around Christmastime. Once you’ve experienced Christmas in the Virgin Islands, you won’t want to celebrate any other way.

What exactly can you expect from a holiday season in this gorgeous locale?

Think sunny skies and endless beaches, instead of snow piles and icy roads; think luxurious accommodations and unprecedented privacy, instead of being crammed into one tiny house with your entire family; think exciting adventures and a new view from your private yacht every day, rather than the same glum, winter scenery you’ve been staring at for months. We know how we’d rather spend Christmas! ​ bout Our Contributor: Welcome to the Suite Life. We are your personal A yacht, providing a pampering & private experience all set in paradise, we call home. We offer world class service, set in an all-inclusive retreat. From your gourmet meals to your cocktails, to your day-to-day activities and destinations, all are tailored to your interests and tastes. https://www.suitelifeyachting.com Old Town Crier

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December 2023 27

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

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

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Old Town Crier

DINING GUIDE AMERICAN

1799 PRIME STEAK & SEAFOOD 110 S. Pitt Street 571-404-6001 ADA'S ON THE RIVER 3 Pioneer Mill Way 703-638-1400 AUGIE’S MUSSEL HOUSE 1106 King Street 703.721.3970 BLACKWALL HITCH 5 Cameron St. 703-739-6090 BOB & EDITHS DINER 1743 King Street 703-664-0043 JULA'S ON THE POTOMAC 44 Canal Center 571-800-6644 CHADWICKS 203 Strand St. 703-836-4442 CHART HOUSE One Cameron St. 703-684-5080 CITY KITCHEN 330 South Pickett St. 703-685-9172 fatcitykitchen.com EDDIE'S LITTLE SHOP & DELI 1406 King Street 571-312-8615 EVENING STAR CAFÉ 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-549-5051 EXECUTIVE DINER & CAFE 1400 Duke Street 703-299-0894 FIVE GUYS 725 King St. 703-549-7991 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 HEN QUARTER 1404 King St. 703-684-6969 HOPS 'N SHINE 3410 Mount Vernon Ave. 703-566-1509 HUMMINGBIRD 220 South Union Street 703-566-1355 JACKS PLACE 222 North Lee St. 703-684-0372 JOE THEISMANNS 1800 Diagonal Rd. 703-739-0777 JUNCTION BAKERY & BISTRO 1508 Mount Vernon Avenue 703-436-0025 KINGS RANSOM 728 King Street 571-319-0794 LAPORTAS 1600 Duke St. 703-683-6313 THE LIGHT HORSE 715 King Street 703-549-0533 Old Town Crier

LORI'S TABLE 1028 King Street 703-549-5545 LOST DOG CAFE 808 North Henry St. 571-970-6511 MAJESTIC CAFÉ 911 King St. 703-837-9117 MASON SOCIAL 728 Henry Street 703-548-8800 mason-social.com MURPHYS IRISH PUB 713 King St. 703-548-1717 murphyspub.com NORTHSIDE 1O 10 East Glebe Rd. 703-888-0032 OAK STEAKHOUSE 901 N. St. Asaph St. 703-840-3395 OCONNELLS RESTAURANT & BAR 112 King St. 703-739-1124 DanielOconnells.com PORK BARREL BBQ 2312 Mount Vernon Ave. 703-822-5699 THE PEOPLES DRUG 103 N. Alfred Street 571-257-8851 RAMPARTS 1700 Fern St. 703-998-6616 rampartstavern.com RIVER BEND BISTRO 7966 Fort Hunt Rd. 703-347-7545 riverbendbistro.com ROCK IT GRILL 1319 King St. 703-739-2274 RT'S RESTAURANT 3804 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-684-6010 rtsrestaurant.com SHOOTER MCGEES 5239 Duke St. 703-751-9266 SLATERS MARKET 1552 Potomac Greens Dr. 703-548-3807 SMOKING KOW BBQ 3250 Duke Sttreet 703-888-2649 SONOMA CELLAR 207 King St. 703-966-3550 SOUTH BLOCK 106 N. Lee Street 703-465-8423 SOUTHSIDE 815 815 S. Washington St. 703-836-6222 SWEET FIRE DONNA'S BBQ & HOPS 510 John Carlyle Street 571-312-7960 THE STUDY 116 South Alfred Street 703-838-8000 T.J. STONES GRILL HOUSE & TAP ROOM 608 Montgomery St. 703-548-1004 tjstones.com

TOASTIQUE GOURMET TOAST & JUICE BAR 1605 King Street 571-312-1909 UNION STREET PUBLIC HOUSE 121 South Union St. 703-548-1785 unionstreetpublichouse.com VIRTUE GRAIN & FEED 106 South Union St. 571-970-3669 VOLA’S DOCKSIDE GRILL & THE HI-TIDE LOUNGE 101 North Union St. 703-935-8890 THE WAREHOUSE BAR & GRILL 214 King St. 703-683-6868 warehouseoldtown.com ASIAN

ASIAN BISTRO 809 King St. 703-836-1515 INDOCHEN 1625 King Street (571) 404-6050 KISSO ASIAN BISTRO 300 King Street 703-888-1513 MALAYA 1019 King St. 703-519-3710 MAI THAI 9 King St. 703-548-0600 NASIME 1209 King St. 703-548-1848 SIGNATURE THAI 722 King Street 707-888-2458 SUNDAY IN SAIGON 682 N. St. Asaph St. 703 549-7777 TOKYO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 66 Canal Center Plaza 703-683-8878 CAPHE BANH MI VIETNAMESE 407 Cameron St. 703-549-0800 KAI ZEN TAVERN 1901 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-836-1212 SISTERS THAI 503 Montgomery St. 571-777-8154 RAILBIRD KITCHEN 804 North Henry St. 703-577-9023 CONTINENTAL

CEDAR KNOLL GW Parkway at Lucia Ln. 703-780-3665 OLD HOUSE COSMOPOLITAN 1024 Cameron Street 703-717-9361 ALEXANDRIA BIER GARDEN 710 King Street 703-888-1951 villagebrauhaus.com FRENCH

BASTILLE 606 N. Fayette St. 703-519-3776 bastillerestaurant.com

BRABO 1600 King St. 703-894-3440 LE REFUGE 127 N. Washington St. 703-548-4661 FONTAINES CAFFE & CREPERIE 119 S. Royal St. 703-535-8151 LA MADELEINE 500 King St. 703-729-2854 JOSEPHINE 109 South St. Asaph St. 703-683-1776 TWO NINETEEN RESTAURANT 219 King St. 703-549-1141 ITALIAN

ALDO'S ITALIAN KITCHEN 2850 Eisenhower Avenue (behind the building) 703-888-2243 ANDY’S PIZZA 107 N Fayette St 571-319-0497 BUGSYS PIZZA RESTAURANT 111 King St. 703-683-0313 FACCIA LUNA 823 S. Washington St. 703-838-5998 FRANK PEPE NAPOLETANA PIZZERIA 3231 Duke Street Alexandria Commons 703-719-2035 HANDOVER BY THE SLICE 728 King Street 571-319-0794 IL PORTO RESTAURANT 121 King St. 703-836-8833 LANDINI BROTHERS 115 King St. 703-836-8404 landinibrothers.com LENA’S WOOD-FIRED PIZZA & TAP 401 East Braddock Rd. 703-960-1086 MIA'S ITALIAN KITCHEN 100 King Street 703-997-5300 MICHAEL’S ON KING 703 King Street 703-838-9090 Michaelsonking.com PIECE OUT 2419 Mount Vernon Avenue 703-398-1287 RED ROCKS FIREBRICK PIZZA 904 King St. 703-717-9873 THOMPSON'S ITALIAN 1026 King Street alexandria@thompsonitalian.com MEDITERRANEAN

BARCA PIER & WINE BAR 2 Pioneer Mill Way 703-638-1100 ELAINE'S 208 Queen Street 571-970-0517 elaines-restaurant.com

NANDO'S PERI PERI 2462 Mandeville Lane 571-473-5500 TAVERNA CRETEKOU 818 King St. 703-548-8688 tavernacretekou.com PITA HOUSE 719 King St. 703-684-9194 DELIAS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 209 Swamp Fox Rd. 703-329-0006 VASO'S MEDITERRANEAN BISTRO 1118 King Street 703-566-2720 VASO'S KITCHEN 1225 Powhatan Street 703-548-2747 SEAFOOD

HANKS OYSTER BAR 818 N St. Asaph 703-739-HANK FISH MARKET-OLD TOWN 105 King St. 703-836-5676 fishmarketoldva.com THE WHARF 119 King St. 703-836-2834 WHISKEY & OYSTER 301 John Carlyle 703-567-1533 INDIAN

DISHES OF INDIA 1510A Bellview Blvd.

703-660-6085 DIYA 218 North Lee, 2nd Floor 703-706-5338 KISMET MODERN INDIAN 111 North Pitt Street 703-567-4507 NAMASTE 1504 King St. 703-970-0615 MEXICAN LATIN SOUTHWESTERN

CASA TEQUILA (next to Crate & Barrel) 1701 Duke 703-518-5312 CHOP SHOP TACO 1008 Madison Street 571-970-6438 DON TACO TEQUILA BAR 808 King St. 703-988-3144 LOS CUATES RESTAURANT 1116 King Street 703-548-2918 LOS TIOS GRILL 2615 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-299-9290 LOS TOLTECOS 4111 Duke St. 703-823-1167 TAQUERIA POBLANO 2400-B Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-548-TACO (8226) TEQUILA & TACO 540 John Carlyle Street 703-721-3203 URBANO 116 116 King Street 571-970-5148 December 2023 29

DINING OUT

THE GASTRONOMES

Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub 713 King Street 703-548-1717 Murphyspub.com

In 2019 the Mooney family started their own oyster farm on Virginia's Eastern Shore.

They then started growing Back Creek Beauties in the rich, historic waters of the Tangier Sound. These oysters are delicious!

The Fire is so Delightful...

As we continue to celebrate the 36th year of the Old Town Crier we decided to revisit Murphy's Grand Irish Pub located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. Back when they opened in 1978 they were on the western fringe of Old Town. Back then, there was no Metro stop on King Street and mostly abandoned warehouses in that part of town. They were one of the first businesses to settle in that part of town... and it worked. They were successful from the minute they opened their doors. I know, I was there!

The original restaurant is what you see today - same fireplace and same bar. Their quality Irish fare at a reasonable price has always attracted the locals and their lively atmosphere and no cover charge music draws in those looking for a good time. Founders Tom Mooney Sr. and wife Melinda always meant for the place to be your home away from home and Tommy Mooney Jr. continues that tradition today. It is truly where friends meet.

Although their menu features Irish favorites like Beer Battered Fish & Chips, Shepherd’s Pie, Hot & Hearty Irish Stew, Irish Meat & Potato Pie and Bangers & Mash as well as many more items, we decided to visit for their famous Sunday Brunch.

In Old Town, Sunday Brunch is an event. It is a time to slow down, eat slow and enjoy the moment with friends. Having said that, it is a good idea to make reservations for brunch at Murphy's as they are very popular. We forgot this rule and therefore had to wait a few minutes for a table for two.

The place was packed but the wait for a table was reasonable on this Sunday. The thirty-foot bar was full and all tables were taken...especially the ones near the iconic fireplace on this chilly morning.

The fact that this is one of very few wood burning fireplaces in the area, makes it special. We were seated at a high top across the bar (our favorite place to sit) and within moments our server Jamal was at the table with water in hand and took our order for Mimosas.

Murphy's brunch runs from 10am to 3pm each Sunday. There are twelve offerings on the menu ranging from the American Breakfast to a full 30 December 2023

blown Traditional Irish Breakfast and all of the usual suspects in between. There are also brunch specials listed on the chalkboard if you are feeling adventurous. Since you all have access to the full menu online, no need for us take up valuable space repeating it here.

I opted for the Irish Country Breakfast with two eggs over easy, sausage, bacon, home fries and biscuit. The eggs were a little over the “over easy” threshold but still enough runny yolk that I could dip my biscuit. The three strips of bacon and two link sausage were wonderful - nice and crispy but not over cooked – and were accompanied by home fries and the aforementioned biscuit. In fact, I should have asked for another biscuit because it was a perfect fit to the meal.

Whether for a fine Irish Country Breakfast or a great steak on steak night or a Jameson or two, remember to meet me at Murphy’s.

From the Publisher: We are proud to once again co-sponsor the 2023 Ugly Sweater contest at Murphy’s on the 6th! See ad on page 7 for details.

My brunch pal was going back and forth between the French toast and pancakes but ordered the pancakes w/blueberries upon our server Jamal’s recommendation.

The three perfectly proportioned pancakes are offered with a side of sausage or bacon and she opted for the latter. A huge bonus is that they are served with WARM maple syrup and the pancakes were loaded with blueberries.

Although the place was very busy, the service was excellent and very attentive.

Jamal surely knew what he was doing.

Also, the coffee is excellent. Although I had had two cups at home before leaving for Murphy’s, their coffee was better.

As I mentioned at the beginning, Murphy's Grand Irish Pub is a popular gathering spot. They are a New England Patriots party bar on football days. They reserve the second-floor for those fans since it has a large bar, a stage and plenty of seating for any kind of gathering.

For as long as I can remember in Old Town the phrase "Meet me at Murphy’s" has always been a popular expression.

Old Town Crier

December at

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9TH 7pm-9pm Irish Coffee Ripple Machine from 7-9pm Prizes for ugliest sweaters awarded at 9pm Live Music from Chasing Autumn at 9:30pm

WHISKEY SOCIETY at O'Connell's

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21ST 6.30-8.30pm

Irish Flight of Powers John’s Lane Release, Green Spot, & Redbreast 12 year old accompanied by food pairings and a welcome cocktail of our House-made Mulled Wine

Events - Parties - Dinner - Bar 121 S. Union Street Alexandria, VA 22314 www.unionstreetpublichouse.com

New Years Eve

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31ST Live music with Practically Einstein from 9.30pm Champagne Toast at Midnight Featured Smoker Special

(703)-548-1785

Old Town Crier

December 2023 31

LET’S EAT

GLENN MOREL

Fondant Potatoes: A Delightful Twist on Spuds Are you tired of the same old potato dishes? Looking to add some pizzazz to your Christmas dinner? Fondant potatoes provide a delicious and elegant twist to the humble spud. Seasoned with fragrant rosemary and thyme, these golden delights are sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters.

To embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients: - 8 medium potatoes - 1 tablespoon of olive oil - 1 stick of unsalted butter, cubed - 4 large garlic cloves, bashed - 2 sprigs of rosemary - 2 sprigs of thyme - 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable stock Serves 6

6. Cover the pan and let the fondant potatoes simmer gently for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until they become irresistibly tender. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together harmoniously.

7. Once the potatoes have reached their peak of deliciousness, it's time to serve them up! Don't forget to drizzle any remaining buttery goodness from the pan over the top for that extra touch of decadence.

And there you have it, a delightful twist on potatoes that will elevate any holiday dinner. Bon appétit!

About the Author: Glenn Morel is a producer turned chef. His website is www. ifihadachef.com. With experience in restaurants from Florida to Manhattan, he specializes in bringing his clients their very own personal chef for any special event. In addition to private parties of 12 (or more-or-less), he also offers catering for small and large groups. Chef Glenn works with you to create a customized menu and first-class event. He brings culinary professionals with him that dress appropriately and are experienced in handling food. They are also often trained mixologists and fine dining servers.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Begin by slicing the ends off the potatoes, creating a flat surface on either side. Take a circular cookie cutter and cut out your perfect rounds. Depth is up to you and your cookie cutter but keep them consistent.

2. Heat up the oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Once the oil is hot, place the potatoes cut-side down in the pan. Fry them for 5-7 minutes, or until they turn a deep golden brown. Once they've achieved the perfect color, flip them over and fry the other side.

3. Now it's time to introduce the star of the show: butter! Add the cubed butter to the pan and let it melt, enveloping the potatoes in its creamy goodness.

4. Sprinkle the bashed garlic and fragrant herbs (rosemary and thyme) around the potatoes, allowing their flavors to infuse into every bite. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the taste.

5. Carefully pour the chicken or vegetable stock around the potatoes, taking care to avoid any hot butter splashes. This will add moisture and depth of flavor to the dish.

32 December 2023

Old Town Crier

LET’S GET CRAFTY

TIMOTHY LONG

Photo courtesy of Caboose Brewing Company

A Visit to Caboose Brewing Company Getting an Old Towner to leave Old Town can be challenging. Just mention DC or Tysons Corner, and you’ll get a look of derision.

It’s as though we live in the old Soviet Union, and that we need papers to travel. I’m an Old Towner, and I admit that I could be better about it.

I mean, I get it. We live in a beautiful part of Alexandria.

People come here to visit.

So why go elsewhere? What could other places possibly offer that we don’t?

This being the case, I don’t often travel to places like Vienna, VA. But then I was told about Caboose Brewing Company. And after tasting a couple of their beers, I wanted to go check them out.

Writing about destinations is my favorite part of this gig. And nothing is more fun than visiting a brewery.

Caboose has two locations, Vienna and Fairfax Commons. I visited their Vienna location. The brewery is in an old railroad Old Town Crier

area. There is a red caboose right down the road, hence the name. As you enter, the first thing that grabs you are the two giant chalkboards over the bar with the various beers listed on them. The employees do a great job of keeping the chalk board colorful and fun. They told me that they will fight to see who gets to update it next.

My initial contact was with one of the owners, Jennifer McLaughlin. Their head brewer is Matt Smith. I got to meet with David Traille, the Head of Brewing Operations. Dave’s story is fun. He learned brewing the old-fashioned way, through apprenticeship. He started at Oak Creek Brewing Company in Sedona, Arizona. When the head brewer fell and broke his arm, Dave had to step in and take over. Dave’s wife is in the military, so he would travel with her as she was stationed in different parts of the country. He found

brewing jobs everywhere that they went, Arizona, California, Idaho, Nebraska, and now Virginia. His story reflects just how big the craft beer industry has become.

Unlike wine, you can make beer anywhere. So almost every city and town in the U.S. has a craft brewery, or several craft breweries.

Dave gave me a tour of the brewery and was excitedly telling me about their process and the different yeasts, malts, and hops they use.

His favorite yeast is Augustiner. For Oktoberfest, Caboose made both a Festbier and a Marzen, which thoroughly impressed me. The brewers at Caboose also like to use Weyermann German Malt. They used it in both of their Oktoberfest beers, plus their Pilsners, Dunkel, and Maibock. I always find technical talks with the brewers to be very fun. But I know what my readers are interested in,

beer. So, we sat down and started tasting.

One of the first beers that Dave puts in front of me is their Spruce Tip Ale. This beer is not for lightweights or the amateur beer drinker.

This is probably the boldest brew I’ve ever tasted. The nose up front smacks you with pine before some citrus starts to come through.

When you drink it, you get a mouthful of Christmas tree.

This beer blew me away.

I’m not sure how much of it I could drink, but I applaud them for making it. It’s a bold, experimental, and beautiful beer. Dave then tells me that it’s featured in a beer dinner they are having the next night. I started to laugh.

“What the hell would you pair this beer with? What dish could it possibly complement?” I ask. I didn’t say “hell.” I used a stronger expletive.

Dave then asks Tim Wilson,

the company’s Director of Operations, to come over.

Tim and I discuss the Spruce Tip Ale for a moment, then I pose the question to him.

“Pheasant.” Tim replies.

The beer was being paired with a Pheasant Duo. Herb crusted breast with roasted leg confit, Roasted Hen of the Wood Mushrooms, and hazel nuts. Wow. I can see that being a great pairing.

As we continue to taste, I am blown away by the beers. They offer a great variety. Dave then pours me their Caboose California Common Steam Beer. They were brewing a steam beer. I couldn’t believe it.

Steam beer is a Bavarian creation that is mostly associated with California.

As beeradvocate.com explains it.

“The California Common, or Steam Beer, is a hybrid style unique to the US. It's usually brewed with a special strain of lager yeast that works December 2023 33

Tim’s

Whiskey and Cigar Recommendations

GET CRAFTY | FROM PAGE 33

better at warmer (ale-like) temperatures. This method dates back to the late 1800's in California when refrigeration was a great luxury. At the time, brewers had to improvise to cool the beer down, so shallow fermenters were used. In a way, the lager yeast was trained to ferment quicker at warmer temperatures.”

Caboose created the beer to honor Anchor Steam Brewing Company, a true American legend of a brewery that went out of business earlier this year. It’s a sad situation that I will pontificate on at another time.

Caboose nailed it with this beer. Their California Common is very smooth, as a steam beer should be. You get biscuity notes on both the nose and palate.

I had a blast tasting all their beers. Their Vas Gute German Pilsner hits every note. Their Hobo Imperial Stout with Vanilla Bean has great cocoa, vanilla, and caramel flavors.

They also age it in bourbon barrels to make their Bourbon Aged Hobo Stout. The bourbon barrel aging gives the beer a delightful bitter dark chocolate aspect. They have recently released In The Rough - Wee Heavy Scotch Ale for Christmas. I didn’t get to taste this one in time for this article.

But I’ll be swinging by their Fairfax Commons location soon to give it a try.

The holidays are a perfect time to visit and support your local breweries. Many of them have fun holiday beers and great events that are perfect for celebrating the season. Do yourself and favor and go to Caboose Brewing. You’ll be thoroughly pleased. Oh, and they open for breakfast and serve coffee as well. You read that right, a brewery that serves breakfast. I’m glad that they are not in Old Town. A brewery for breakfast might just be too tempting. Happy Holidays everyone!

About the Author: Timothy Long is an educator, writer, consultant, and experienced restaurant operator.

Email: tlong@belmarinnovations.com. Instagram and Twitter: @wvutimmy. Blog: What is that fly doing in my soup? http://whatflyinmysoup.com.

Buffalo Trace Bourbon I have gotten into the habit of peaking into liquor stores as I pass by. In Virginia, you never know when there may be a few goodies behind the counter. I got lucky the other day and spotted a box behind the counter labeled Buffalo Trace. I asked if the box contained Buffalo Trace. It did. My joy was palpable. I now have a bottle to enjoy during the holidays. Buffalo Trace is a bit of a unicorn these days, but it’s worth the search. The nose is red apple and honey up front with licorice, marshmallow, and clove that follows. You get honey on the first sip as well, with some cinnamon and oak that follows. This bourbon is smooth and delightful. It finishes as it starts, with honey and red apple. At 90 proof and $29 in Virginia, it’s a great addition to any collection. If you’re lucky enough to find it

Ask about our amazing Pipe and Cigar Humidor Sale and Our Military and First Responders Plus Discount Program

Tatuaje Havana VI Verocu Blue No. 1 This wonderful cigar is spicey and nutty. The smoke is thin in body, but medium in flavor. You get black pepper and anise up front. It’s sweet on the palate with hints of hickory. It finishes even sweeter with a licorice flavor. I really enjoyed every puff. This is a great Christmas morning standing by the tree smoke. Just don’t stand too close.

This cigar, and many other fine cigars, are available at John Crouch Tobacconist at 215 King St. in Old Town Alexandria. Mention this article and get 10% off the purchase of this month’s recommended cigar.

34 December 2023

215 King St. Alexandria, VA 22314 sales@johncrouch.comcastbiz.net (703) 548-2900 | (703) 739-2302 Old Town Crier

CHESTNUTS ROASTING… …YOU KNOW THE REST. Give the gift of great whisky this holiday season.

Copper Fox Chestnut American Whisky is now on sale in the month of December at both distillery locations and select Virginia ABC stores.

9 River Lane Sperryville 540.987.8554 901 Capitol Landing Road Williamsburg 757.903.2076 Bring in this ad to either distillery location and receive a FREE Flagship Whisky Tasting Flight.

Valid 12/1/23–12/31/23 One per person.

Not to be combined with other offers.

www.copperfoxdistillery.com

Old Town Crier

December 2023 35

GRAPEVINE

MATTHEW FITZSIMMONS

The Sparkling Wines of Shenandoah Valley Many Virginia wineries offer a sparkling wine, but no other local wine region has embraced bubbly with the same vigor as the Shenandoah Valley. Around half of the valley’s wineries make a sparkling wine, with options ranging from “pét-nats” for casual drinking to more sophisticated bottles made using the méthode champenoise, the same process used in Champagne.

Not only is the Shenandoah Valley especially suitable for the production of sparkling wine, sparkling is one of the fastest-growing segments of the wine market. Between 2019 and 2022, the number of Americans enjoying sparkling wine has risen by 30%.

This growth is largely driven by changing views of when bubbly should be consumed. Sparkling is moving away from its traditional role as a ‘special event’ wine to something wine lovers should casually enjoy.

The Influence of “Terroir”

While the words “champagne” and “sparkling wine” are often used interchangeably, for over a century France has worked hard to ensure the term ‘champagne’ is legally protected. Only sparkling wine grown and made in the region of Champagne is allowed to carry that label.

France is understandably protective of this term, as Champagne’s unique terroir creates the conditions which makes its wine the pinnacle of what sparkling wine should be.

This has much to do with location, location, location!

Champagne is one of Europe’s northernmost wine regions. Vineyards located at Champagne’s latitude usually struggle to get their fruit to full ripeness. Yet here this proves to be an advantage, as the high acidity present in unripe grapes is perfect for sparkling wine.

Champagne is also famous for its chalky-limestone soil,

36 December 2023

which provides good drainage. Vines with limited access to water struggle, forcing them to focus their limited energy on creating high-quality fruit.

Its soil grants another advantage. Chalk both reflects heat during the day and stores it during the night, allowing the vines to stay within a temperature range that is conducive to ripen its fruit evenly.

It so happens the Shenandoah Valley emulates many of the qualities that make Champagne a premium location for sparkling wine.

Shenandoah Valley wines are likewise famous for their acidity. While Champagne’s grapes maintain their acidity due to its northern latitude, wines made in the Shenandoah Valley maintain their acid profile by virtue of the cooler temperature found at higher elevation vineyards.

The valley’s soil also emulates Champagne’s porous limestone, as both areas were ancient sea beds. While it doesn’t have the chalk Champagne is famous for, the Shenandoah Valley’s higher elevation allows for greater diurnal temperature shifts. This means the valley has both warm days and cool nights, allowing its fruit to ripen without losing their acidity.

Perhaps the Shenandoah Valley’s greatest advantage is its lack of rainfall. The Allegheny Mountains to the west and Blue Ridge to the east create a ‘rain shadow’ over the valley between them. Most local vineyards only receive around 35 inches of rain a year, while northern Virginia and Charlottesville receive 42-47 inches.

Shenandoah Wineries Growing Their Sparkling Brands

Lee Hartman of Bluestone Vineyard insists the Shenandoah Valley is a great place to make wine of any type, but he’s especially proud of his sparkling program.

Old Town Crier

“We have a really good spot for sparkling. Our hill tops out at 1,400 feet, so there’s cooler air, super well drained soil, and lots of limestone. Hills aren’t unique to the valley, but if we get 3 inches of rain, much of it washes away.

We partnered with Veritas Winery for the first two years we made sparkling, but now we’ve brought it all under our roof and doing it by hand.

During disgorging, it’s very satisfying hearing this loud cannon of wine spit out an ice cube of yeast. Given all the work you’re not really saving money, but my team and I are giant nerds, and we like having our hands in the process.

At the end of the process you get to list “Grown and Bottled” on the back of the label. It’s time consuming, but there’s something really fun in saying we did all of this.”

Sparklings that hail from the Shenandoah Valley also boast an impressive amount of diversity, both in how they’re made and the fruit being used.

Most bubbly currently made in the valley is produced using the méthode champenoise (aka traditional method), which is both the hardest and most prestigious way to make sparkling. This process requires two separate fermentations; an initial one to fashion the base wine, and a second inside the bottle to create the bubbles sparkling is famous for.

A handful of wineries also make wine using the ‘Charmat’ method, a more cost effective process which follows the basic principles of the méthode champenoise but does the second fermentation in a steel tank and at a larger scale.

Robert Muse explained his rationale why Muse Vineyards selected the more expensive of the two methods, writing back, “I prefer the traditional method as it produces a deep, rounder taste and mouthfeel. The word ‘biscuity’ is used to describe some champagnelike wines. I’ve never experienced this pleasant attribute in other sparklings.”

Two of the most popular grapes for Champagne, chardonnay and pinot noir, are likewise the most popular choices for sparkling in the Shenandoah Valley.

Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery partnered with Veritas to make their new Blanc de Noir, while the 2019 Blanc de Noir from CrossKeys Vineyard took “Best of Show” at the 2022 Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association competition. Barren Ridge, Bluestone, Cave Ridge, Midland, Muse, and Ox Eye Vineyard all make Blanc de Blancs.

As the Shenandoah Valley is home to over 630 acres of vines, an abundance of other grapes are also available.

Those looking for something different should try the cayuga sparkling from Briedé Family Farm, the riesling from Cave Ridge, or the grüner veltliner coming soon from Jump Mountain Vineyard.

A number of other wineries including Brix & Columns and Wolf Gap also make Charmat-style sparklings using chambourcin or cabernet franc.

Regardless of your choice of bubby; don’t wait to drink it on New Year’s Eve. Sparkling can be enjoyed at any time!

Author: Matthew Fitzsimmons is a blogger who has visited nearly every winery in Virginia – most of them twice. Track his progress at https://winetrailsandwanderlust.com/

Old Town Crier

December 2023 37

EXPLORING VA WINES

DOUG FABBIOLI

Wine for All!

The vines now stand dormant in the vineyard, and the crusher is enjoying a well-deserved rest. It was a banner grape growing year here in northern Virginia.

At our winery, we processed more grapes than ever before! The combination of great growing weather and great vineyard management produced an incredible harvest. With a heavy yield of grapes here at our vineyards, adding a new client, and not selling as many grapes to other winemakers, we crushed just over 87 tons of grapes in about a month.

We processed all of those grapes in 37 different lots - or batches - keeping varietals, individual growers, and picking days separate. Some lots were as small as a few hundred pounds while our largest was 12.5 tons. Some years we play around with a few experimental lots, but knowing we had a full plate this year, we decided not to do any trials. In addition to the grapes, we processed 1 ton of apples and 3/4 ton raspberries in 8 different fermentation batches. The capacity of our winery was not quite built for the load we handled, but some how we made it all work.

The challenge we faced processing more fruit than our small winery was designed to handle was that things got rather tight and more inefficient. Toward the end of the season, we began each day by moving things out of the way to make room for that day’s work. At the end of the day, we moved all of those things back and shifted other things around to find room for the day’s work product.

I must say, “So far, so good,” in that we have continued to move wines, make space and bottle quality wines just as we are supposed to do. Arturo, our production manager, does the bulk of the wine movements these days, while I try to have the vision and plan for what to move where and keep the process moving.

High production and tight spaces also create an environment where mistakes can happen. A missed addition, pumping the wrong tank or somebody getting hurt, these are a higher possibility when 38 December 2023

space and time are constrained. I am very proud that after all is said and done, we had only one late night on the crush pad, and no injuries or mistakes.

I credit this to years of experience, and a fantastic and dedicated team.

We have filled all of our oak barrels and have wines ready and waiting to be put into barrels. We have older, red wines in barrels ready to be put into bottles. Our next move is to finalize our blends, order packaging materials to get these wines into the bottle, bottle and fill barrels with the abundant 2023 vintage. This process sounds simple, but each wine is an individual and needs individual attention.

About the Author: Farmer, winemaker, eduator, entrepreneur, and leader, Doug Fabbioli has been accelerating the growth and quality of Virginia’s wine industry since 1997. With his wife Colleen, Doug is the owner/operator of Fabbioli Cellars in Leesburg, VA. He is the founder and director of The New Ag School, which focuses on teaching the next generation of farmers and agriculture-related leaders. No wonder they call Doug Fabbioli the Godfather of DC's Wine Country.

Our smaller bottling line has been a great asset for us these days. We are able to bottle just a couple of wines each week, with every bottling making a bit more space and making things a bit easier.

Some winemakers describe this process like playing chess. The next right move creates the right outcome. I feel like it is a bit like Tetris as well, your opponent is time.

The other factor in this game is demand for the wine. Bottling and packaging some wines was delayed during the busy harvest season temporarily throwing off inventory for some of our most popular wines. We now face the question of what to bottle first. Currently we are prepping to bottle older reds as well as some of our new whites to fill these demands and open up a bit more tank space.

There is no down time in our year. There is always work to be done, it simply varies with the season.

It certainly is a relief to not have to worry about the vineyards for a few months. We still work them, and plan for the next growing season, but the pressure is off outside and now we focus inside instead.

As our wines are served at your holiday meals this season, raise a glass and give a touch of thanks to the hands and hearts that grow and produce the food we enjoy every day. The farmer makes it happen and the producer makes sure it stays fresh, healthy and flowing into your home!

real people. earth friendly. fabulous wines.

OPEN THURSDAY THROUGH MONDAY 11-5 PLEASE CALL FOR RESERVATIONS FOR GROUPS OF SIX OR MORE 15669 Limestone School Rd Leesburg, VA 20176 703.771.1197 • fabbioliwines.com info@fabbioliwines.com

Old Town Crier

FIRST BLUSH

KIM PUTENS

It’s All About the

“Bling”! and color over the eyeliner and smudge. Some brands have smudge pots that make creating the smoky eye a breeze.

The look for the holidays is all about “bling”. It’s bling for the hair, on our nails and on our face.

Shimmer, shimmer, shimmer is the mantra for the holiday season. But remember its shimmer, not glitter. There is a big difference. Shimmer is dewy and glowing. Glitter is reminiscent of our children’s art box. Avoid the glitter and embrace the shimmer. Shimmer products are best used to accentuate one’s luminous glow. It’s best applied on the cheeks, the lips and down the bridge of the nose. It also looks great along the brow line to give the eye an instant lift. And who doesn’t want a little lift? It’s certainly cheaper and easier than going under the knife.

Warm hues of copper and champagne are top notch this holiday season. Think sun kissed, bronzed and glowing, like George Hamilton. Try copper shades on the eyes accented with bronzer on the cheeks and face. Finish the look off with warm champagne hues for the lips. To fully capture this look, the lips should be 24 kt, a la J. Lo. In keeping with the trend for the fall, smoky eyes are still fashionable for the holidays. While not appropriate for the office, the smoky eye is a great evening accessory to the little black dress.

Consider shades of amethyst and navy, instead of black, to add some sparkle. Simply take a dark liner and line the eyes along the top and bottom rim. Use a similar shade of eye shadow color

Old Town Crier

this holiday season. Spray on glimmer hair sprays give the hair a little extra sparkle. Hues of champagne and copper are popular with blondes, brunettes and redheads. And, let’s not forget our finger and toes. Popular new nail shades for the season are red, ivory and copper.

No matter which makeup trend you choose, keep the skin glowing and looking healthy. During the busy holiday season, it’s easy to let our skin go.

But, remember, healthy skin means glowing skin.

If your skin seems dull and lifeless, consider a mask to brighten the skin. If you are feeling pale, try a little self-tanner on the face, neck and décolleté.

A great alternative to the smoky eye is the sultry red lip. Red lips look especially festive during the holiday season. If you intend to wear red, make sure your red lips match your attire. The worst is when the reds don’t match. A rosy, pinky red lip and a candy apple red blouse will make everyone see red. And, when choosing red lips, make sure During these cold, dry winter months, it’s also to keep the rest of your makeup subtle. The red important to keep the skin moisturized. Makeup lips are supposed to be the focal point and too always looks best on healthy, hydrated skin. much makeup on the face will run the risk of looking like a clown. At Haircuts $15 the same time, don’t look geishaA Very Good Shampoo, Cut & Blow Dry $18 like either. It’s okay to wear a little Good (extra charge for long hair) Haircut! color on the rest of the face.

Price!

For another great look during the holidays, consider the “rosy glow.”

This monochromatic look using a rosy palette is fresh and youthful for all ages. If the thought of rosy doesn’t make you glow, consider shades of coral to achieve the same look. To get this look, simply take your rosy or coral cheek color and sweep it on the cheeks, up the temples and along the eyelids. Use similar colors with a little shimmer to highlight along the brow bone and the cheeks. Finish it off with a rosy or coral shade of lip-gloss.

The hair is no exception to glimmer

Scissors Cut $17+up Color $43+up Permanent $45+up (including haircut & conditioner)

Beautiful Perm!

Long Lasting Color!

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

703-836-1916

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

Biolage • Vital Nutrient • Socolor • Matrix Perm • Paul Mitchell • Nexxus

December 2023 39

FROM THE TRAINER RYAN UNVERZAGT

Get Fit Gifts!

Wow…It’s hard to believe that 2023 is almost over. This year has gone by way too fast, but December is a great time to find that perfect gift for the holidays.

If you are one of those people who struggle to think of gift ideas, you should consider something fitness-related. Here are a few things that I recommend:

Heart Rate Monitor: This is a tool that I think everyone should own. Heart rate monitor prices can vary anywhere from $30 to well over $300 depending upon the brand and type. The best thing about having one is that it will track the intensity of your workout no matter where you exercise! You don’t need to rely on a cardio machine at the health club to check your heart rate. It’s also easier than stopping in the middle of your workout to feel your pulse and count while watching the clock.

I hope these ideas help in your quest to find a great holiday gift this season!

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

Exercise Ball: (A.K.A. Fit Ball, Swiss Ball, or Stability Ball) I’m talking about the big ball you can sit on at the office or perform multiple exercises for the “core”. However, you can do much more than abdominal exercises with a Fit Ball such as squats, stationary lunges and pushups. Every ball should have an exercise sheet included to show you how to use them. They also come in different sizes and colors, so which one should you buy? Most manufacturers will have a size chart printed on the side of the box. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends these sizes for height: 4’8” - 5’5” - 45 cm Ball 5’6”- 6’0 - 55 cm Ball (most common size in stores) 6’1” – 6’5 - 65 cm Ball (most common size in stores) Taller than 6’5” - 75 cm Ball Prices for exercise balls vary from $20 (typical) to $45 (burst resistant quality) Kettle Bell: You might be wondering, “What the heck is a kettle bell?” I can give you a visual. It basically looks like a cannonball with a handle on top. Kettle bells have been used for centuries in Russia, but are now becoming popular fitness tools in the U.S. Sizes typically range from 5lbs to 25lbs in stores, but can be ordered much heavier. Some kettle bells will be listed in kilograms (kgs), have a cast iron look and feel, or have some sort of covering or coating for a better grip.

Kettle bells can be a bit pricy, ranging anywhere from $25 to over $180 for a single one. Kettle bell training does take more practice and skill than traditional weight training, so you should seek guidance from a fitness professional before diving into this type of training.

Health Club Membership/Personal Training Sessions: This gift can be a tricky one because the recipient might be offended at such an offer thinking, “What are you trying to say!”

However, if you have heard someone talking about joining a gym or thinking about personal training, this might be the gift to help them take that next step toward a healthier life.

40 December 2023

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FITNESS

NICOLE FLANAGAN

Working out Through the Winter With the cold weather rolling in and the days getting shorter it seems like we all have less time on our hands. With an already jam-packed schedule we tend to skip out on workouts (or stop exercising entirely) and by the time we get to the New Year we all feel compelled to get back to that preholiday shape. This year lets try to do things a little different. Instead of slowing down on the exercise routine and abandoning your diet completely, keep up the good work and by the time the New Year gets here you will be starting off on a positive foot. Pay attention to what you eat at your holiday parties and keep your butt moving through the last leg of the holiday season.

Here are just a few tips to keep you looking and feeling your best!

Eat hot and HEALTHY Most people throw out those diet guidelines for the winter and fill up on home made chili and beef stews. Start your meals off with a bowl of chicken and vegetable soup instead. Not only is chicken soup good for you, studies have shown that people who ate it as an appetizer consumed less calories throughout the entire meal. Go Nuts! At the office holiday party instead of pigging out on the baked goods, candy and chips grab a handful of mixed

Go to Sleep

Take your workout outdoors

Missing out on sleep as stress and time demands grow can result in lower virus fighting “natural killer” cells in our bodies. Sleep gives your body the recovery time it needs to stay healthy and to keep your immune system working at its best.

Most people will bring their workouts inside when the weather starts to get chilly.

Instead, take advantage of what the weather has to offer.

Bundle up a bit and take a walk, you’ll have to walk a bit faster to keep yourself warm while also burning more calories.

Eat your Vegetables!

Eat plenty of carotenoid rich vegetables like winter squash, carrots and pumpkin. According to a U.S. Department of Agriculture report, a diet high in carotenoids can raise your immune-cell count by a third, which will help ward off illness and keep your fitness level intact

Travel Smart

You won’t drink as much water because you don’t feel as thirsty. Remember that dry indoor air can be more dehydrating that running outside. Make sure to keep drinking plenty of fluids during the day and especially during and after a workout.

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When eating out try to avoid that “too full” feeling that usually comes at the end of a meal. One pasta plate at a restaurant is enough to easily feed two people. Instead of devouring everything yourself, offer to split a low fat appetizer, a salad and a meal. By doing this you will eat less and also save a couple bucks.

One of the biggest set backs during the winter months is getting sick. Catching a cold can set you back a week depending on how sick you get. Work toward improving your immunity by keeping up on your cardio. A recent study at the University of South Carolina in Columbia found that adults who get regular moderate exercise have significantly fewer colds. If you already have a cold, moderate exercise probably won't make it worse, but consult your doctor if you have possible flu symptoms such as fever, muscle aches or heavy coughing.

Without realizing it we sometimes slow down on our exercise routines. This time make a steadfast commitment to workout. Just like you make your work schedule, take time to pencil in a workout. If you end up missing a workout make it up as soon as possible.

Remember it is easier to stick to a fitness program than it is to start one after months of inactivity.

Keep yourself hydrated

Eating Out

Stay Healthy

Keep Moving

Don’t abandon your workout because of traveling for work or family holiday parties. If you are on a business trip try staying at a hotel that has a gym. You don’t need a whole room full of exercise equipment to get a workout done. If gym access is not available get yourself moving with a light jog around the block and some AB crunches and push-ups. It is always better to do something than do no exercise at all.

of red wine or a rich tasting dark beer. Drink a glass of water in between each alcoholic drink.

This will keep you hydrated and reduce your calorie intake.

nuts and munch on it slowly. Nuts are loaded with protein and healthy fat which makes you feel more full and therefore less likely to fill up on empty calorie foods.

Drink Better Eggnog is a diet disaster. Instead of consuming half your day’s calories in one drink go for a glass

Trying to stay healthy through the holidays can be tough, especially when everyone brings out their favorite pies and dessert goodies.

Remember that the holidays come around once every year so its not like you are going to miss out on something if you don’t stuff yourself like a Christmas goose. Focus on keeping your fitness a priority and you will be able to start the New Year with a lot more pep than everyone else who decided to take the last three months off of exercise. Enjoy the rest of the holiday season by staying healthy and fit!

December 2023 41

POINTS ON PETS

LISA VELENOVSKY HAYASHI

Gifting Pets for the Holidays: Yea or Nay? It's the holiday season, and everyone is searching for that perfect gift! And what could be more perfect than a snuggly puppy for a child or a feline animal companion for a lonely parent?

It does make for a heartwarming picture -- but is it a good idea?

Experts are divided, and it turns out the answer is not a simple "yes" or "no."

Many animal rescues, shelters and advocacy groups such as PETA believe strongly that it's a bad idea to gift a pet. This is based on legitimate concerns about the animal's welfare, such as whether the recipient wants a pet, is ready for the responsibility of caring for a pet, can afford the financial commitment that comes with a pet, and even if a recipient will love a gifted pet as much as one they chose themselves.

Gifting a pet to a child brings its own special challenges.

"Pets require a lot of responsibility. It's not feasible to think that children can take care of a puppy or kitten – they will need adult supervision at all times," Stacey DiNuzzo, the communications director at Pasado's Safe Haven, told People Magazine about why families shouldn't rush to give pets as gifts. This is true for any pet gifted to a child.

There are anecdotal stories of shelters being flooded with unwanted gifted pets as they are abandoned by their new owners. DiNuzzo lists her rescue among those that receive surrendered animal’s post-holidays, after the recipient's initial enthusiasm for their new animal has waned. However, no numbers or statistics were provided.

There appears to be little hard data to determine how widespread the problem may be.

At the same time, other animal advocates point to research that suggests that the gifting of pets is not in and of itself detrimental to the pets.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (the ASPCA) conducted research in 2013 to learn more about the outcomes of gifting pets. According to the results at the time, "96% of the people who received pets as gifts thought it either increased or had no impact on their love or attachment to that pet. The vast majority of these pets are still in the home (86%). The survey also revealed no difference in attachment based on the gift being a surprise or known in advance."

"These results supported the findings of earlier studies that gifted pets were less likely to be given up by an individual than pets the individual chose for themselves."

While these studies provide some hard data, the truth likely lies somewhere in the middle.

One thing all animal advocates can agree on is that bringing a pet into a home is a long-term and serious commitment, and if there is no desire to honor that commitment, a person should not get or receive a pet. There are common-sense guidelines to follow if you're considering gifting an animal that will benefit both the gifted animal and the recipient and make it less likely the animal will ever end up in a shelter.

Stinky the Christmas kitty was rescued from New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Photo by Chris Usher.

42 December 2023

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POINTS ON PETS | FROM PAGE 42

The ASPCA recommends the following guidelines: 1. Gift pets only to people who have expressed a sustained interest in owning one.

2. Be certain recipients are able to care for a pet responsibly: physically, emotionally and financially.

3. Gift pets from animal shelters, rescue organizations, friends, family or responsible breeders—not from places where the source of the animal is unknown or suspect.

4. If the recipient is younger than 12, parents should be fully prepared and committed to assume all care for the animal.

5. If the gift is a surprise, the gift-giver should know and consider the recipient’s lifestyle and schedule to ensure that they have the time and means to be a responsible owner, including necessary time and tools to ensure a smooth and safe transition into the home. This is especially important during the holidays and other busy times.

Other important information to know before gifting a pet: 1. Is there room for pet? For instance, a Great Dane in a studio apartment might be a stretch.

2. Are pets allowed where they live?

Many apartments, condos and retirement communities have number, weight, size and even breed restrictions. They may also require a pet deposit or monthly fee that the recipient is not prepared for.

3. Do they have other pets? An only or senior

pet especially may not be able or willing to accept another animal in the household, which could result in stress, unwanted behaviors and even could jeopardize the health and safety of the pets and their person.

4. Does anyone have pet-related allergies?

Sometimes allergies are not evident until an animal is in the home.

5. Does the gifter have a safe plan for the animal if the recipient doesn't want it? While the animal is technically the responsibility of the recipient, the gifter also has responsibility for making sure the pet lands in a safe place -and not a high-kill shelter.

Gifters may want to consider an option that allows for both surprise and preparation: Presenting a picture or stuffed animal version of the pet or type of pet you're gifting with a note about the details. This allows the recipient some control, including choosing their companion or saying "No" if they aren't up for a pet at the time.

Making the new pet parent an integral part of the process can turn that picture-perfect gift into a picture-perfect ending!

About the Author: Lisa Velenovsky Hayashi is an Alexandria resident and a long-time volunteer with King Street Cats.

References

https://people.com/pets/giving-pet-as-holiday-gift/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/ PMC4494363/ https://faunalytics.org/pets-gifts-just-do-math/ https://crazyrichpets.com/pets-as-gifts/

Selected Metro DC Animal Shelters/Rescues Animal Welfare League of Alexandria alexandriaanimals.org/

Fairfax County Animal Shelter www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter

Animal Welfare League of Arlington www.awla.org

Friends of Rabbits and House Rabbit Sanctuary

www.friendsofrabbits.org/ King Street Cats www.kingstreetcats.org/

Operation Paws for Homes, Inc. ophrescue.org/ Rikki’s Refuge Animal Sanctuary www.rikkisrefuge.org

PETS

OF THE

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

Rango Rango is a docile, friendly, 5-year-old bearded dragon who doesn't mind being handled and is looking for a place to lounge permanently. He likes to munch on leafy veggies and insects, like mealworms.

You will often find him perched on a log in his enclosure curiously looking out, tilting his head back and forth, awaiting new visitors. With the proper equipment and food, bearded dragons are easy to care for can make excellent, entertaining pets. Their average lifespan is 8-10 years!

Simon Simon is a male English Spot bunny who is as cute as he is curious. English Spot rabbits are known for being gentle, affectionate, and well-mannered. Simon embodies all of these characteristics!

He loves to receive attention and be pet.

Simon is also very curious and loves to explore and check out the world around him. Some of his favorite snacks include hay, apple sticks, and veggies. If you're looking for a snuggly rabbit companion to love, Simon is your guy!

Leroy Leroy is a 8-year-old sweet senior gentleman who is looking for a retirement home. Leroy is very calm and easygoing with a loving, patient demeanor. Leroy has gotten along with other dogs, even small ones, here at the AWLA. Leroy walks a little slower, but he still enjoys a leisurely, short stroll and LOVES a fluffy, cozy bed to snooze the day away in. Leroy very much prefers to stick close to the humans he loves. He knows the cues for sit, down and paw. Leroy is really spectacular!

Schedule time to meet with any of these amazing adoptables by emailing Adopt@AlexandriaAnimals.org or calling 703.746.4774 opt. 2.

Old Town Crier

December 2023 43

GO FISH

STEVE CHACONAS

Fishing for Gifts Shopping for anglers is frustrating; but for people on the receiving end there’s a guaranteed stint in return lines! Choose gifts for on and off the water! Quality, comfort, and durability in a variety of enhanced materials make for long lasting gifts.

Since 1980, Simms anglers have perfected innovative fishing clothing, utilizing cutting edge materials with on the water testing. Simms Rogue Softshell Pants are perfect for cold weather.

Wind-blocking, breathable, and DWR treated soft shell contains a non-bulky soft fleece interior for warmth.

Secure riveted pockets are warm. Stow phone, pliers, or keys in a right thigh zippered pocket. Articulated knee panels are darted for mobility and back cuffs are reinforced. simmsfishing.com In 1897 people were tough and clothes tougher. Filson became legendary to outdoor enthusiasts. Sewn in the USA Filson Rail Splitter jeans are ready for work. Tightlywoven denim with 100% cotton yarn provides natural durability and comfort.

Rear pockets are doublelayer reinforced. Leg holes fit over most boots. Heavy44 December 2023

duty zippered fly and metal wreath-button waist closure ensure longevity. Bartacked belt loops are sturdy.

Filson’s tough clothing legacy withstands the tests of time and hard use. filson.com Balanced for all-purpose Grundens Ballast Jacket is

built with Primaloft Black insulation engineered to stay warm when wet. Light and thin, Primaloft Black offers best in class warmth. Cozy inside, tough outside, the Ballast has a rugged shell fabric with professional grade abrasion resistance 100% Nylon oxford full dull 400D coated with Durable Water Resistant (DWR) finish. Plenty of pockets: dual zippered chest, two hand warming, interior security. Interior knit cuffs beneath adjustable snap cuffs.

Adjustable hood. Triple stitch seams. grundens.com Fishouflage Waters Edge performance interlock fleece ½ zip jacket in several species specific Fishouflage camo patterns create unique performance casualwear gifts. Fishouflage’s soft brushed interior features advanced moisture-wicking for dryness, anti-microbial treatments for freshness,

and UPF40+ ratings for sun protection. Stretch cuffs keep weather out. Fishouflage’s Waters Edge ½ Zip Jacket isn’t an old cotton pullover. fishouflage.com Nothing feels better than merino wool, naturally providing warmth,

Merino Wool fingerless gloves are great for fishing, hunting, biking, and even yard work, wicking away moisture in a warm glove that stretches for comfort and fit.

Fingers are free to function. minus33.com Finally, a working multi-tool.

American made Gerber Dual Force is a functional standalone tool. Comparable to toolbox pliers, Gerber pliers are adjustable for a better grip and have a wire cutter and stripper. Of course, this tool has a legendary Gerber knife and saw positioned on the handle for ease of use.

The screwdriver is amazing, positioned in line with the handle for best leverage and use. Two additional screwdriver tips are stored in a magnetic receptacle.

Founded in 1939 and based in Portland, Oregon, customized Gerber innovative knives and problem solving tools are individualized gifts backed

by Gerber’s limited lifetime warranty. gerbergear.com Redington’s new Wrangler kits provide fly fishing quality and versatility. Awardwinning Best Freshwater Rod at Confluence 2023 is ready to cast with six species specific, rods, reels, backing, fly line and leaders. Just add flies. Each component is high quality. 9’ rods have anodized reel seats and a fighting butt.

The Crosswater Reel has a durable composite frame with a carbon disc drag. Paired with RIO Mainstream line, and RIO Powerflex Plus tapered leader, Wrangler kits

are contained in a durable nylon carrying case. A reinforced cap protects rod sections. Ready for the river, Wrangler kits come with a lifetime warranty. farbank. com Batteries operating trolling motors, electronics, livewells and firing up outboards can come up short. Power-Pole’s CHARGE Marine Power Management Station keeps batteries ready to perform as a traditional battery charger, charge-on-the-run, and emergency start system, in a compact and easy to install unit. CHARGE reserves power to crank outboards.

CHARGE juices up boaters and every battery. powerpole.com Nothing lasts longer or charges faster than made in America DEKA AGM deep cycle batteries. DEKAs withstand rough water, long trailering vibration and hold up without spilling or leaking in any weather.

Santa brings piece of mind with DEKA batteries. eastpennmanufacturing.com

Gift certificates are great. breathability, and comfort.

Online, catalog and brick Minus33 Merino Wool and mortar stores are loaded clothing is naturally elastic with outdoors gifts. But the for fit and comfort and nearly best gift of all is time on the wrinkle free. Specializing in water. Find a buddy, a spouse base layers, socks, headwear, and especially a child, and go and other apparel, Minus33’s fish!

Midweight Long Sleeve Henley is 100% merino About the Author: Capt. Steve wool. Naturally moisture Chaconas is Potomac River wicking and odor resistant, bass fishing guide. Potomac the 3 button Henley is a fishing reports: nationalbass. com. Book trips/purchase great base or for everyday gift certificates: info@ wear for fishing and any NationalBass.com. outdoor activity during fall, winter, and spring. Minus Potomac River Bassing in NOVEMBER 33 merino wool fabric is Much cooler water is slipping into the 50s. Still a good time for firetiger crankbaits comfortable whether hot, and when water is stained, gold tandem Colorado/Indiana bladed spinnerbaits. Use 10 cool, wet, or pound test GAMMA EDGE fluorocarbon line for both. Contact cover. dry. minus33. com Gloves make a great stocking suffer.

Durable and comfortable Minus33

Hard cover like docks, riprap and bridge pilings are great places to pitch Texas rigged Mizmo Tubes on 3/0 hooks.

For flats close to deep water wintering areas, drop shot and Carolina rigs are great for covering water and various depths.

Old Town Crier

OPEN SPACE

LORI WELCH BROWN

It's the Most

Wonderful Time of the Year I don’t care if you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, lighting the Menorah, hunkering down for Kwanzaa, or gearing up for the Chinese New Year—December truly is the most wonderful time of year.

“Awww, bah humbug, Lori— Christmas is for kids! Clearly you haven’t tried to park at Costco recently or gone near a Macy’s.

People would rather run you over than lose a parking spot within a mile of a mall.”

Okay—true about the parking situation, but not true about Christmas being for kids. I mean, sure. There’s nothing like seeing Christmas through the eyes of a child on Christmas morning, but I know many adults who are nothing short of giddy this time of year.

“Giddy? What is there to be giddy about? Have you seen the news recently? The world is at war, we have a geriatric president who will likely be ousted by a felon, new strains of COVID are popping up daily, and AI is about to replace all our jobs while it’s stealing our identities.”

True—there is a lot of bad stuff happening in the world right now which makes it even more important to embrace the holiday season with glee and spread the message of hope, peace, and joy.

“You sound like a walking Hallmark movie.”

Thank you.

“What if I don’t have anything to be joyous about? Have you seen the price of eggs?”

Joy is everywhere—you just have to look for it. Perhaps you should switch off the news and put on a Hallmark movie.

“Hallmark shmallmark. Who has time for those indulgences when there are presents to be bought, gifts to be wrapped, pies to be baked…”

Sounds like someone is gearing up for the holidays…

“Well, it is a BUSY time of year; I’ll give you that.”

The bustle is part of the magic. While I don’t like the parking lot wars, I actually do enjoy being out and about and relishing in the glow of it all.

“Glow? The only glow I’m experiencing is from my hot flash. I don’t know—I think I’d rather hide my head in the sand and just sit out the holidays. All they do is leave me feeling lonely and depressed. Every year I say I’m going to book a trip and squirrel away for the holidays.”

I get it. Really. I do. I felt that way for many years. For many of us, the holidays are a reminder of a loss or a big let down because our ‘holiday’ doesn’t resemble that aforementioned Hallmark movie—which doesn’t make them any less enjoyable, btw.

I’ve found that in order to enjoy the holidays, I have to be proactive and find ways to make them meaningful, fun, and festive.

“But how?”

Well, for starters, regardless of what’s going on in my life, I think about how fortunate I am and I think of others who are less fortunate and that helps get me out of my own head. There’s always someone worse off than yourself so I use that as my north star.

Then I try to find ways to brighten someone else’s holiday in some small way. There are tons of ways to do that—donating to Toys for Tots or adopting a family for the holidays—to name just a couple.

Gifts are my love language, and I happen to excel at shopping so I find a lot of joy in the gift giving experience. BTW—I like to receive them as much as I like to give them so feel free to ask me for my sizes and favorite colors…

the mittens your friend Peggie crocheted for you. It’s accepting an invitation to Jen’s annual girls’ gift exchange. It’s pulling out your holiday decorations and coming across the one your Mom had your name etched in when you were a kid.

“It is better to give than to receive, Lori. It’s all just too much—too much consumerism, too much booze, too much eating, much too much of everything.”

It’s finding the perfect gift for your husband who really isn’t into gifts.

It’s sitting down at night to binge watch your tree. It’s assembling the ingredients for your Aunt Norma’s Italian wedding cookies which you love to make because a) they’re delicious and b) the recipe is in her handwriting and you look forward to gently unfolding it every Christmas and then putting it away again for safekeeping.

The holidays can become the season of gluttony if we aren’t careful. I have a hard time not eating the entire tin of cookies in one sitting, and if I’m at a party, you can find me by the food table. I’m told, however, there are strategies one can develop to help with these sorts of matters, i.e., eating a healthy meal before you go out, drinking a glass of water in between glasses of wine/spirits, etc.

“Well, that sounds like a buzz kill…”

I didn’t say these were my strategies.

No—my strategy is to eat and drink all the good things in excess. It helps me tee up my New Year’s resolutions, i.e., Stop drinking and eating.

“Beyond all the excess, just what exactly is it that you find sooooo magical about December?”

Gosh—where do I begin? The air has an energy…

“I hate the cold!”

It’s not just the cold temps—it’s the feeling you get walking down King Street with all the shoppers and revelers. It’s the chatter and clatter with a backdrop of carols and lights and smells and aliveness. It’s the decorations—the wreaths hung on doors, trees erected by the front windows, and lights strung with care.

It’s a cup of hot chocolate, wearing

It’s opening the card from your former co-worker you haven’t seen in years. It’s shoveling your walkway and realizing you have enough steam to do your neighbor’s. It’s pulling out your snow boots and hanging your stocking.

It’s the million and one little things that make your heart smile.

“Okay, Lori. I think my Grinch-like heart is starting to melt a little.”

That’s great. Sometimes all you need to do is put on some Christmas music and talk yourself into having the most wonderful time of the year.

“For the record—I really love unwrapping a new pair of pajamas on Christmas Eve.” Duly noted.

“Also, for the record—you can beat me over the head with Christmas spirit, but you’re still never going to get me to drink eggnog.”

No worries. We’ll have espresso martinis instead. I’ll just sprinkle some nutmeg on top.

About the Author: Lori is a local writer, painter and pet lover who loves to share her experiences and expertise with our readers.

She has been penning a column for the OTC for over 20 years. Please follow Lori online on Medium for more missives like this.

Old Town Crier

December 2023 45

NATIONAL HARBOR

LANI GERING

ICE!, ICE! and More at the Gaylord Those of you who have been reading this column for any amount of time, know how much I love the holiday festivities that take place at the Gaylord National each year.

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer returns this year in all his glory along with Yukon Cornelius, Hermy and the Abominable Snowmonster aka “Bumble” in ICE@. These sculptures never disappoint. I am keeping this narrative short in order to feature more pictures and I have to admit that I didn’t take a ride down the ice slide this year since I forgot my gloves but I did take a couple of turns on the tube down Snow Flow Mountain and Bob and I both took a turn at the Snowball Build and Blast! Check our website for the videos!

(an augmented reality experience presented by bubly™), a sing-a-long and story time with Mrs. Claus and the chance to meet Santa and have your photo taken with the big guy.

And…don’t forget the gift shop.

There are some amazing things for sale in this space.

Ice skating is back this year outdoors in front of the side entrance on the Lobby Level between the parking garage and the resort. It is a trail of real ice as opposed to a rink. I definitely need to check it out this season.

Something new this year is the “Make the World a Brighter Place” board that is outside of the entrance to Christmas Village. It gives visitors of all ages a chance to post a star pledging kindness and celebrating our differences. Each star asks you to write down what makes you shine bright. There were some very poignant messages on the board when I was there. I recommend you take the time to fill out a star and read what others have posted as well.

The Christmas Village located in the Convention Center each year is sort of a miniature version of a Bavarianstyle hamlet with all sorts of activities including the aforementioned Snow Flow Mountain and Snowball Build & Blast along with a Gingerbread Decorating Corner, a Build-ABear Workshop, Wildlife Rescue

The 55-foot Starlight Christmas tree lighting with the synchronized music/ laser light show with indoor snowfall is back along with Cirque: Spirit of Christmas - a Broadway-style show featuring high-flying stunts, acrobatic feats, elaborate staging and a dramatic musical score. For guests seeking a show that celebrates the true meaning

46 December 2023

of the season, The Greatest Story Stage Show is a multicultural musical celebration that tells the story of the birth of Jesus Christ through the eyes of six international storytellers.

Located in the main lobby you will find a 320-square-foot Gingerbread display featuring colorful fairy taleinspired creations from every season to an assortment of edible meals and treats found throughout the resort, guests will be able to eat, drink and be merry during the celebration.

The newly renovated Old Hickory features a special menu filled with seasonal winter dishes, while Harbor Social offers gourmet sliders of all sorts to munch on as you do a little Duck Pin bowling or any of the other numerous games in this place. Guests can sip on delicious holiday-themed cocktails throughout the resort’s venues - our favorite is the Belvedere lobby bar. Plus, The Holiday Sweet Shoppe returns with its hot chocolate and eggnog drinks, as well as an

the holidays so be sure to take a spin on the Capital Wheel while you are there. Doesn’t get much better than having a bird’s eye view of the Potomac and the Harbor’s holiday decorations from 180 feet in the air!

impressive selection of chef-prepared desserts.

There are tons of activities taking place in the Harbor in general during Old Town Crier

Unwrap the joy of the season at Gaylord National with endless hours of holiday entertainment and activities for the whole family to enjoy together.

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• • • •

ENERGY STAR® Certified Construction • 2-Car Garage Picturesque Green Space and Idyllic Neighborhood Pond Impressive Bosch® Stainless Steel Appliance Package & More Commuter Friendly Living with Close Proximity to Route 28, I-66, and Route 50

3-Level Townhome from the Upper $600s 4-Level Townhome from the Mid $700s Award-Winning Decorated Model Open 11 AM - 5 PM:

5286 Ridgeview Retreat Dr., Chantilly, VA 20151

CraftmarkHomes.com/RetreatAtWestfields

ACT NOW FOR 2023 MOVE-INS AND RECEIVE $25,000 TOWARDS CLOSING COSTS!* SALES MANAGER Lori Windsor | lwindsor@craftmarkhomes.com | 703-507-6882 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA FOR AWESOME INSIDER INFO! Brokers Warmly Welcomed. Must register and comply with policy terms. *For 2023 Move-In with use of Preferred Lender and Title.