Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine June 2024

LUDES of

brings older adults out of their shells and into a healthier, happier lifestyle

Dok Klaus Menzie Pittman: Making musicians’ voices heard Weston: A Place Apart Forging Ahead with Jiu-Jitsu

RIP

SANDY

Suffield Meadows

My husband and I have been taking yoga classes for about 2 years now. We have an awesome instructor who comes to the house and teaches us in our rec room. Because, of course, if she didn’t show up twice a week and make us do it, we wouldn’t. But neither

of us is getting any younger, and I am determined for us to remain (or, possibly more accurately, become) strong and flexible as time goes on. It’s not my husband’s favorite thing to do, and when class is canceled occasionally for whatever reason he’s not terribly disappointed. But after 2 years, he admits to the benefits.

I found two very dynamic women who remain vibrant at the ages of 80 and 88 to feature in this issue. They inspire me because I want to be like them when I’m in my 80s. Their secret? Social interaction and remaining active.

Carolyn Kirkland is a veteran who served as a US Navy nurse. I met her a few years ago when I featured her in a Veteran’s Day

issue, and we still occasionally meet for lunch. I even see her on Facebook every once in a while. But I see her more often at Hero’s Bridge events where I volunteer a little and she volunteers a lot. Her passion for supporting veterans keeps her mentally and physically vibrant. And she’s 88 years old!

I recently met Sandy Ludes when someone I met through a different article a while ago contacted me because she thought a neighbor of hers would be an interesting article. (Have I ever mentioned I love small towns and the relationships that can develop?) Sandy became a certified yoga instructor and a certified water aerobics instructor at the age of 73. Now 80, she

WARRENTON LIFESTYLE

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EDITOR Pam Kamphuis pam@warrentonlifestyle.com

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teaches four exercise classes a week at her active adult community. She’s inspired to help seniors remain physically and mentally strong in part because, as she said, (and this might be one of my favorite article quotes ever) “I don’t want to live with a bunch of broken-down old bats. I want my friends to be healthy and vital!”

EDITOR Pam Kamphuis

The Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and distributed to over 11,500 selected addresses. While reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to The Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to any such material. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. While ensuring that all published information is accurate, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any mistakes or omissions. Reproduction in whole or part of any of the text, illustration or photograph is strictly forbidden. ©2024 Rappahannock Media LLC.

Thank you,Dok

Klaus-Jürgen Helmut Füchsel

May 5, 1960 - May 13, 2024

Klaus-Jürgen Helmut Füchsel of Warrenton — known to many as “Dok Klaus” — passed away peacefully at home with his family last month after a three and half year battle with brain cancer.

In his 22 years at the helm of Dok Klaus Computer Care, Klaus became Warrenton’s Help Desk. We depend on technology — and much of the community depended on Klaus to manage and mend its tech.

The story behind the familiar name and face is the quintessential American story which, as so many do, began across an ocean. It’s an inspiring tale of inventiveness and dedication.

Klaus was born in Berlin in 1960 to Heinz Füchsel and Christa Mühl (nee Molkenthin) and studied math and computer science in college. As the new millennium approached, Klaus moved to the United States in 1999 with his wife Virginia and their three daughters to work on a project for electronics gi-

ant Siemens. It was the perfect opportunity for a passionate computer programmer like Klaus: His extensive training, college work and worldwide experience had paid off.

After spending two years in New Jersey working for Siemens, his project ended — and by then the world had changed. Klaus was left to find new work in a post-September 11 economy.

When he moved to Warrenton where his wife’s parents lived, Klaus thought that finding work with his skilled background wouldn’t be a problem. But fresh in the aftermath of 9/11, the requirements of the government and its contractors proved otherwise. Given his citizenship status in 2001, it was challenging to find a job.

Thankfully, the government contracting world’s loss was his new community’s gain. Klaus became an entrepreneur and started his own business. Dok Klaus Computer Care was born.

He began repairing computers, removing viruses, recovering data, and providing various other technology help — invaluable services in our digital world. Running a good business including giving back: Klaus taught locally, donated laptops to schools and offered internships.

Fast forward to 2020. Like for any business, the pandemic was challenging, for sure. But Klaus and his staff navigated this world turned upside down and continued to serve their customers.

Then came the biggest challenge of all: In

Doc Klaus Computer Care continues to serve the community

With its namesake now providing expert guidance from above, the business Klaus built endures. The family-led team provides the Northern Piedmont region with personalized computer care, network engineering, web development, and custom solutions for businesses and homeowners.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that those who knew Klaus share a memory online at moserfuneralhome.com. Donations in his name can also be made to the nonprofit Hospice of the Piedmont.

fall 2020, Klaus suffered a seizure. He was diagnosed with brain cancer and underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

Appropriately, technology — coupled with Klaus’s good spirits — allowed him to continue helping clients. He wore The Optune, a cap that creates a magnetic field which hinders destructive DNA from multiplying.

“I’m thankful for technology,” Klaus said in 2022. “Maybe the technology is paying me back by keeping me alive.”

It was, and so was Klaus’s lifelong determination: “One motto my father imprinted on my character from the beginning was ‘All things you do, do them with might; things done by half are never right.’”

Klaus is survived by his loving wife Virginia Palmer-Füchsel, his sister Angelika Füchsel, daughters Silvia Füchsel, Melanie Millman (partner Adam), and Martha le Roux (partner Gert), granddaughter Liela le Roux, mother-in-law Martha Palmer, and 11 nieces and nephews.

A couple years ago, an article in this magazine about Klaus was headlined “Everybody Knows Dok”. Like so many he knew and helped throughout the community, we’re so glad we did. L

dokklaus.com solutions@dokklaus.com (540) 428-2376

335 Waterloo St., Warrenton

Every Car Has a Story

American Legion Post 72 hosts annual Charity Car Show on Father’s Day

BY PAM KAMPHUIS

The Father’s Day Car Show in Warrenton is truly an event for the community. It is an opportunity for local auto enthusiasts to bring their cars out and develop relationships with other car owners, and they all love to share their stories with visitors who attend the show.

This year is the fourth year the show has been held at the Warrenton Horse Show Grounds under the stewardship of Dave Lucash and Bonnie Kidwell of American Legion John D. Sudduth Post 72.

Many locals will remember the Father’s Day Car Show when it was held in Old Town Warrenton for a few years. Due to the logistics and expense of holding it in Old Town, which involved permits, closing streets, and police involvement for parking and crowd control, it became unsustainable.

The tradition was dropped, and many were disappointed. A year later Lucash, whose business had been a partial sponsor of the event, looked into reviving it. As the commander of the American Legion Post 72 in Warrenton, he approached the Warrenton Horse Show Association about possibly renting their historic Horse Show Grounds on West Shirley Avenue to hold the car show. When the committee realized proceeds were to benefit Willing Warriors, a Haymarket nonprofit organization that offers services and support to wounded and recovering veterans, and the Fauquier Food Bank, they allowed the Legion to use the location at no charge.

“We are so thankful to the Horse Show Committee for that. We couldn’t afford to do it otherwise,” Lucash said.

A Volunteer Event

Dave Lucash is an ideal person to spearhead the project. His business, Lucash Racing Engines in Southern Fauquier, concentrates on the restoration of classic cars, so the people he meets networking in the car community are valuable contacts. “It’s right up my alley,” he said.

Unrestored Cars: cars driven by everyday drivers, sometimes called “survivors”

Full Restoration Cars: cars which have been restored to their original condition

What typesof carswill yousee?

Euro-mod Cars: older cars that have been modernized for comfort and convenience, for example with the addition of air conditioning or modification of suspension for a more comfortable ride

Pro Street Cars: fast, barely streetlegal cars with big tires that are on the edge of being a race car.

Late Model Muscle Cars: showroom performance cars such as Camaros and Mustangs

Custom Built Cars: cars that are essentially built from a kit or assembled from interior engine parts acquired separately and assembled under an exterior shell.

Father’s Day Charity Car Show

Presented by:

American Legion John D. Sudduth Post 72 to benefit Willing Warriors of Haymarket and the Fauquier Food Bank

Date:

Father’s Day, Sunday, June 16, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Location: Warrenton Horse Show Grounds, 60 East Shirley Ave., Warrenton

Contact: legion72carshow@gmail.com

Bring out your ride!:

Registration $25 online, $30 day of Carshowpro.com/event/1819

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While Lucash and Kidwell are the driving forces behind the event, they are assisted by volunteers that include other Legionnaires and members of Sons of the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary who assist with the set-up, food, parking, and break down on the weekend of the show.

The car show has once again become a popular Warrenton event and has doubled in size during the four years it has been held at the Horse Show Grounds. Lucash said, “Last year we had 225 cars and over 3,000 spectators. The Show Grounds are 9 acres, and we couldn’t fit another car in the lot.”

Who enters the car show?

Lucash estimates that more than 90% of the cars entered are from the local area.

“These are people who have classic cars that only drive them a few times a year. It’s ideal for them,” he said. They have also had cars come from as far away as North Carolina whose owners want to support veterans.

What else will you find at the Car Show?

• Barrel Train Rides for Kids

• Craft and Vendor Show

• Food trucks and vendors including Moo Thru ice cream

• Complimentary hot dogs and hamburgers courtesy of Sons of the American Legion

And anyone can enter their car into the show. Lucash said, “Some people have cars that don’t fit into a standard car show classification, and they wonder if there’s a place for them here. We have about 25 trophy classes so every car will fit in somewhere. Even motorcycles and everyday cars are welcome.”

“Some car owners go much further than just parking their cars. They’ll go out and set up items and props from the car’s historical era as well. Sometimes the displays are just as nice as the cars themselves. It’s something to see.”

“The nice thing about the car show is not just the cars, but the fellowship and camaraderie among the car owners which they happily share with spectators. Gathering together and talking cars is the highlight for them. Every car has a story, and telling those stories is what’s important. That’s the cool thing.” L

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Honoring a Tireless Volunteer

Warrenton’s Carolyn Kirkland celebrated as one of Aging Together’s

5 Over 50

BY PAM KAMPHUIS

U.S. Navy Nurse Corps veteran Carolyn Kirkland can best be described as a “firecracker”. At the age of 88, she still fits into the uniform she last wore in 1977 and has more energy than most people a quarter of her age. Always dressed impeccably in coordinated outfits with comple -

About Carolyn

Raised in an orphanage, Kirkland’s dreams of a career in nursing were inspired by the heroine in the young adult mystery “Cherry Ames, Flight Nurse”. She went to nursing school on a scholarship and joined the Navy in 1966, a day after the Air Force told her she was too old for recruitment. She served in military hospitals in Oakland, Calif., Naples, Italy, and then Quantico where she met her husband Bud Kirkland, a US Marine major, on a blind date. They were married for 45 years. She left the military in 1977 and the couple settled in Fauquier County where she worked as an outreach nurse at Vint Hill until it closed in 1997. She cared for her husband through his illness developed from Agent Orange exposure until he passed away. Since then, her focus is on helping veterans.

mentary accessories, she is well known in the Fauquier County community.

And she puts that energy to good use. Due to her experience with injured soldiers during her Navy nursing career, Kirkland’s passion is advocating for veterans. She is a tireless volunteer for Hero’s Bridge, a veteran support nonprofit based in Warrenton, and Boulder Crest, a nonprofit based in Bluemont that serves veterans with PTSD and their families.

This year, because of her involvement with these organizations, Kirkland was honored at Aging Together’s 5 Over 50 Celebration as the top nominee in Fauquier County. Aging Together, a regional senior advocacy nonprofit, created the 5 Over 50 Celebration to honor older adults’ contributions to their communities. Every year they select

Kirkland received her award on May 1, 2024, at Aging Together’s 5 Over 50 Celebration.

one person from each of their five service counties for the award.

“The common thread among our 5 Over 50 honorees is their passion about something, usually related to their own personal story,” said Caroline Smeltz, director of outreach and development at Aging Together. “Along with that passion is the superpower of wisdom which only comes with age and experience. That combined force is so impactful. The 5 Over 50 celebration honors this, and it's also an inspiration to younger generations.”

The criteria for the honor requires that nominees must be over 50 years old and have given freely in service to the community, making a significant contribution in the form of mentorship, leadership, or action. Nominees are evaluated by a committee of the 13 members of Aging Together’s board of directors.

Kirkland received more than 20 nominations. “There was a lot of information from people who know her well, and collectively they told a good story about her,” said Smeltz.

Molly Brooks, founder of Hero’s Bridge, wrote in the organization’s nomination, “Hero’s Bridge is fortunate to have Carolyn’s support. Over the past six years, she has become an invaluable ambassador for the organization. She is an example of a Hero’s Bridge veteran who does more for the organization than the organization has done for her. Carolyn enthusiastically promotes the organization to veterans who may benefit from our services, as well as those whom she feels should help support it. She brings … a unique perspective and unparalleled enthusiasm.” L

Read more about Carolyn Kirkland :

Photos courtesy of Hero’s Bridge and Aging Together

local hero

Something New at the Old Jail

Fauquier History Museum to unveil a new theater room and film

BY PAM KAMPHUIS

PHOTOS BY TRAVIS ROGERS

The historic Old Jail in Old Town Warrenton is an old building, but the Fauquier History Museum at the Old Jail is keeping up with the times with a little help from a local Eagle Scout.

The museum, which has been operating at that location since 1966, has always celebrated the history of the jail and Warrenton with fascinating exhibits containing local artifacts, history presentations and tours, and even welcoming some paranormal groups.

Last year was the 200th anniversary of the construction of the 1823 section of the site, known as the stone jail. Laura Kelsey, president of the Fauquier Historical Society, and her staff decided to do something significant to celebrate. But what, exactly?

“We toyed around with a lot of different ideas, and I finally contacted several museum consultants in the Washington area for help. Because we are such a small museum, most didn’t want to deal with us. But I finally found someone who was sympathetic to my cause,” Kelsey said.

A new idea

The consultant mentioned that museum goers today, especially the younger generations, are looking for more of an experience, more than looking at artifacts in glass cases. They want to feel more immersed.

He suggested they convert one of the old

cells in the 1823 building, which was being used for storage, into a small theater and show a short film, similar to what larger museums are currently doing.

“I said, ‘Okay, we want to hop on this train, we want to be part of the future, not the past,’” said Kelsey.

Kelsey and her staff worked with a film company for over a year developing the six-minute film that would loop on the screen in the new theater.

“We decided to tell stories about real prisoners that were incarcerated here over a 200-year period,” Kelsey said. This included

those who committed a variety of crimes ranging from debtors to murderers, moonshiners, robberies, runaway slaves, and many others in between.

“We spent a lot of time gathering stories, photos, and artifacts and choosing between them, and went through 18 versions of the script before we even started filming,” Kelsey said.

The film was completed in early 2024. The theater room itself needed a bit of cleaning out and a little remodeling, but it was straightforward. They installed a new audio-visual system and were almost ready to go.

Take a Seat

Aiden Rogers of Warrenton has been a part of the Boy Scouts since becoming

Aiden Rogers led a group of Boy Scout volunteers in building the benches for the theater as his Eagle Scout project.

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a Tiger Cub at the age of five. Now 17, he was looking towards earning his Eagle Scout qualification, the highest level in the Boy Scout organization. To do so, he needed to complete a project of his choosing that would demonstrate leadership and project management skills.

Aiden was already volunteering at the Fauquier History Museum to earn his citizenship in the community merit badge towards his Eagle Scout requirement. Seth Schenck at the Fauquier History Museum, knew Aiden needed an Eagle Scout project and mentioned that the new theater would need benches built for seating.

That project became Aiden’s mission. For it to qualify him for Eagle Scout, he had to manage the project from start to finish. This included drawing the plans, making diagrams, sourcing the materials, analyzing the expenses, and assembling a team of volunteers to help and ensuring they were qualified to safely use the necessary tools and equipment.

Aiden assembled a team of six volunteer scouts, ages 14-17 and accompanied by their fathers, to construct the four benches. Under his leadership, they worked two six-hour days at the end of April to complete the project.

Aiden’s father, Travis Rogers, who was also a Boy Scout, thought the project was a good choice and a good fit for his son and the troop. “It was not too much in the sense that it was something that untrained

The new theater room at the Fauquier History Museum measures about 18’x18’ and can seat about 15 people. It will also serve as a location to host school groups, lectures, presentations, and meetings.

kids could work on; it didn’t require an adult to perform the tasks. You can actually get a group of kids under the right guidance and they’re able to complete something like this. That’s one of the things Aiden had to weigh when choosing his project. It needed to be realistic and attainable. It was a good balance between the age range and skills of the scouts that volunteered and meeting a need at the Old Jail.”

Aiden said, “The reason I want to earn Eagle is because it is a sign that I have commitment and am a hard worker who can get things done. I am hopeful that the project I have done will be a great help to the community, not only for educational and physical purposes, but also to draw attention to Warrenton’s history and inspire others to join Scouting.” L

Keep an eye out for news of the premier of the film and the opening of the theater. | fauquierhistory.org

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StoryWalk® Project Turns a Page

Open-air literacy installed at another local park

BY ROBIN EARL FOR FAUQUIER COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

For families who like to read on the move, the county has a new offering: A 24-display StoryWalk ® at C.M. Crockett Park in Midland. The StoryWalk ® displays — each standing about a 7-yearold high — weave around and through the picnic area and playground at the park. Each display features two pages of a children’s book selected by Fauquier County Public Library youth services staff. Kids walk, run

or skip from one display to another to find out what happens next in the tale of the month.

The project at Crockett Park is the county’s largest so far. There are 20 displays on the Warrenton Branch Greenway — beginning at the Caboose — and 15 at Brumfield Elementary School.

The StoryWalk ® Project was created in 2007 by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Ver-

mont, to combine the pleasures of reading wonderful children’s books aloud with all the joys and benefits of walking together outside. Ferguson worked with the Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition (VBPC) and the Kellogg Hubbard Library to install the first StoryWalk in Vermont.

StoryWalks ® have been installed in 13 countries and 50 states.

“StoryWalks ® are great,” said Maria

St. James’ Episcopal School first graders read Big Chickens by Leslie Helakoski on a recent visit to Warrenton Branch Greenway with Reading Specialist Nell Lawrence.

Students in the First Grade Class from St. James’ Episcopal School gather around a StoryWalk® station on the Warrenton Branch Greenway

The Pout-Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen, was featured in May at the new StoryWalk® location at C.M Crockett Park in Midland

Recent Fauquier StoryWalk® Books

GREENWAY Chicks and Salsa by Aaron Reynolds; illustrated by Paulette Bogan

Soaked by Abi Cushman

Big Chickens by Leslie Helakoski; illustrated by Henry Cole

Permanent StoryWalk® Locations

WARRENTON BRANCH

GREENWAY

StoryWalk® begins at the beginning of the 2.2-mile paved trail, at 79 south 4th Street in Warrenton, just over the bridge from the restored Caboose.

BRUMFIELD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

550 Alwington Blvd., Warrenton

C.M.

CROCKETT PARK

10066 Rogues Road, Midland

MARSHALL

Location to be determined

APPEARING IN JUNE: Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall

CROCKETT PARK

The Pout Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen; illustrated by Dan Hanna

APPEARING IN JUNE: Bedtime for Sweet Creatures by Nikki Grimes; illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon

BRUMFIELD Duck on a Bike by David Shannon

The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter; illustrated by David McPhail Bear Counts by Karma Wilson; illustrated by Jane Chapman

APPEARING IN JUNE: Not a Box by Antoinette Portis

Del Rosso, Fauquier Public Library director. “Families can read good books while enjoying the benefits of exercise and nature.”

On a recent sunny day on the Greenway, one local mom said she appreciates the StoryWalk ® , which leads her children through the pages of a storybook while they get some exercise.

Her daughter Camille added, “They always choose the best books! And there is always a new one to read every time we come.”

Jennifer Diamonti, senior youth services librarian, chooses the StoryWalk ® books. “A lot of the books are personal favorites of mine, like ‘The Snowy Day’ and ‘The Pout Pout Fish’. I also pick books that are especially popular with kids, like ‘Dragons Love Tacos’ and books from the Pete the Cat series. The best ones have bright, vibrant colors and are fun to read for all ages,” Diamonti said.

Sometimes the chosen book has a local connection.

In May, the featured book in Eva Walker Park is the award-winning “Layla’s Happiness”, illustrated by Ashleigh Corrin,

Walker’s granddaughter. The temporary StoryWalk is part of the Kids to Parks Day celebration planned by Warrenton Parks and Recreation.

The traveling StoryWalk ® also regularly rotates among 10 elementary schools — all except Brumfield, which has the permanent StoryWalk ® . Christine Mueller is a grandmother and an enthusiastic StoryWalk ® supporter. She said, “One of my favorite things to do with my young grandson is the StoryWalk ® . We both enjoy the good stories and walking with purpose to find out what happens next to the characters. Meanwhile, we both get plenty of exercise and steps on the route.

“My grandson usually brings along a stuffed animal friend (or two) and we take turns reading the pages and guessing what will happen as we skip along to the next pages. We usually have many laughs and good discussions about the characters, their problems and possible solutions!

“It’s a win-win for us and the whole family — loads of fresh air, exercise, fun and learning during some special quality time. Young or old, this is so much fun for all.”

The Warrenton Greenway and Crockett Park StoryWalks ® were funded by the Patricia and Nicolaas Kortlandt Fund at the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation (NPCF). They are a collaborative effort among Fauquier Public Library, Fauquier County Parks and Recreation and Friends of the Fauquier Library.

The Brumfield StoryWalk ® is sponsored by Fauquier Reaches for Excellence in School Health (FRESH), the Fauquier County Public Library, Friends of the Fauquier Library and The PATH Foundation.

Students from Fauquier County Public Schools’ Transitions program install new stories each month at the Warrenton site. The Transitions program serves county students ages 18 to 22 who have documented intellectual and developmental disabilities. The program helps them prepare for independent living and employment through hands-on experience with local businesses and volunteering at local non-profits.

Another StoryWalk ® is planned for the Marshall area. The location has not been announced yet, but funding from NPCF is in place. L

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Fox Lyle McCulla enjoys a book on the Warrenton Branch Greenway Storywalk®

Hello Warrenton!

I wanted you to know that Academy Mortgage has officially joined Guild Mortgage, one of the most respected independent mortgage companies in the nation. While our people and our commitment to serving you will remain unchanged, we do have some notable upgrades.

First Time Homebuyer Programs

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Online Application

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Guild Servicing

Guild’s servicing advatages offers Homebot*** home equity monitoring to all closed loans, a way for borrowers to keep track of their homes value etc...

‘Never underestimate a

child’s sophistication’

Foxley Atelier Fine Art Instruction helps blossoming young artists explore their creativity

BY SUE BALDANI

Since childhood, Adriana Foxley, owner and founder of Foxley Atelier Fine Art Instruction in Warrenton, has always used her surroundings to enrich her artistic creations. Her father worked for the State Department, and the family lived all over the world, exposing her to different experiences and cultures.

“I grew up going to marketplaces in Morocco and to boulangeries in France,” she said. “As a little girl, I would lie on the floor and look up at the ceiling in our house in Morocco. It had this intricate tile work. Outside, I had this great desert landscape. France, of course, is very artistic and they make everything beautiful.”

Foxley’s parents encouraged her creativity. Whatever she wanted to make, her father

would find things for her to use. “My mom got tired of me pulling trash out of the can to use in my art, so she made a ‘create box’ for me with ribbons, pieces of cloth, and other items,” she said.

At age 12, after her family moved back to the U.S. and settled in the Warrenton area, Foxley began her formal training as an artist with national award-winning artist Patricia McMahon Rice. “She was a portrait artist and I just really took to portraiture. I’m drawn to faces. She’s a local star and has taught so many kids,” she said.

Under Rice, Foxley became proficient in the fine art mediums: oil and watercolor painting, charcoal, graphite, and pastels.

Later, Foxley moved to Utah and was married, but returned to Virginia a few years

ago as a single mom needing to support her family. Although she had studied business in college, art once again came into her life.

“Art was a skill I had acquired over the years, and it was always the guiding star in my life. I fell back on that,” she said.

It was also good timing, since Rice was only teaching occasional workshops. “I saw the opportunity to pick up the baton,” Foxley said. She opened Foxley Atelier Fine Art Instruction for kids 5-18 in Warrenton in 2020. Her worldly travels influenced her name of the business: “Atelier” is the French word for an art studio.

“Because there were so many kids out of school [due to the pandemic], their parents needed them to do something that they felt was safe in small groups, and my classes provided an outlet for them.”

Foxley realized that art was being emphasized less and less in schools, and when it was taught, it was very crafty. Her method is to provide children with professional tools and let them be guided and critiqued by real artists in order to find their unique creative voices.

Foxley explained, “It’s so important for kids to have that creative exploration time, but they shouldn’t be getting any critique before the ages of 9 or 10. They should just be experiencing it all because they’re creating for the joy of creating and they need that freedom.”

It is this freedom to explore that Rita Nejfelt of Culpeper values for her 10-year-old daughter Genevieve, who has been taking classes at Foxley Atelier for 3 years. “She likes to explore different types of art, from watercolor to pastels to graphite,” Nejfelt said. “She also has the freedom to choose her own subject. She usually chooses animals and wildlife to create. I can teach her a lot of things, but art is something I can’t help her with. Miss A. steps in and nurtures that side of her.”

Amanda Buechner of Vint Hill, whose 10-year-old daughter Eliza and 12-year-old son Peter are students of Foxley’s, agrees.

Left: A Foxley Atelier student working with pastels.

Right: Adriana Foxley in the Foxley Atelier studio

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“Eliza has multiple different mediums she can use. She’s had fun experiments with watercolors and likes drawing scenic things. My son likes pastels and prefers drawings of animals.”

The classes became so popular that her studio quickly grew out of its space and had to triple its footprint in the John Marshall Building. “I love this building and its history, and it’s such a cool place to have an art studio,” Foxley said.

Right now, her staff includes Laura Coates and April Miller. Foxley said, “They’re both talented artists and I was really lucky to find them. The kids love Laura, and she truly embodies our motto of never underestimating a child’s sophistication. She’s showing them how to work with clay and it’s just been huge having that new medium here.”

April was a Patricia McMahon Rice student as well. “She’s super fun, and teaches our creative exploration class, which is for ages 5 through 7. She’s just sweet and patient and also embodies our motto.”

Foxley’s goal is to bring even more artists in, whether it’s for pottery, jewelry, weaving or other creations. “We need to bring them here and help them make a living wage. I’m really passionate about that as well as giving kids access to art education,” Foxley said.

While Foxley Atelier teaches mainly chil-

Students at Foxley Atelier can gain experience in different fine art mediums, including watercolor (Mia), colored pencil (Savannah), graphite (Nora), pastel (Elliot), and more.

dren from 5 years and older, adults are also welcome in the studio. There’s a free class on Tuesdays for adults.

Occasionally, parents also take part in their kids’ classes. “I love that because first of all, they’re connecting with their children and second of all, they’re showing them that it’s never too late to learn something new.”

Foxley Atelier’s annual student art show is a highlight for students. They are encouraged to share and take pride in their work. Genevieve Nejfelt’s grandparents travel to the area every year to support her at the art show.

“The art shows are a benefit; the kids get to display their art and get dressed up. It makes it feel a little more professional,” Amanda Buechner said.

Outside of the studio, Foxley and her sons, 11-year-old Maxwell and 8-year-old Matthias, and their sweet guinea pigs, live in Culpeper County, along with her husband, Aaron Paul, whom she married last year. Paul was her childhood sweetheart. “We met when I was 10 and he was one of my best childhood friends.”

And Foxley Atelier continues to thrive: “There’s nothing more validating and homey-feeling than knowing your community has literally lifted you up and says, ‘We value what you have to offer and we’re going to support this business, we’re going to tell our friends and bring more people and continue to help you build this,’” Foxley said. L

FoxleyAtelier.com

32 Waterloo St., #201, Warrenton 801-318-5365

Instructors at Foxley Atelier: April (fiber arts and Creative Exploration), Adriana (studio study), and Laura (pottery)

Foxley Atelier’s annual Student Art Show draws parents, grandparents, and the public to see the students’ works.

Fauquier Health Nationally Recognized for Patient Safety

This spring, Fauquier Health received an A grade for Hospital Safety from the Leapfrog Group. This national distinction celebrates our achievements in protecting hospital patients from preventable harm and errors.

“Our A Grade is a reflection of the culture we have here, and our commitment to instilling best practices as daily habits,” said Rebeca Segal, Fauquier Health CEO. “I would like to extend my personal gratitude to every member of our team, from our nurses, clinical and ancillary staff to our physicians, board members and volunteers for their ongoing commitment to quality care and patient safety.”

The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization with a 10-year history of assigning letter grades to general hospitals throughout the United States, based on a hospital’s ability to prevent medical errors and harm to patients. The grading system is peer-reviewed, fully transparent, and free to the public. Hospital

Safety Grade results are based on more than 30 national performance measures and are updated each fall and spring.

“I applaud the hospital leadership and workforce for their strong commitment to safety and transparency,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group.

“An ‘A’ Safety Grade is a sign that hospitals are continuously evaluating their performance, so that they can best protect patients. Fauquier Health’s team should be extremely proud of their dedication and achievement.”

Fauquier Health is a community health system dedicated to high-quality, patient-centered care. Accredited by the Joint Commission, Fauquier Health

has achieved recognition as a Certified Primary Stroke Center, as a Center of Excellence for Joint Replacement and as an accredited Chest Pain Center. Fauquier Health includes a 97-bed acute care hospital; a long-term care and rehabilitation facility; and the Villa at Suffield Meadows, an assisted living facility. Fauquier Health also operates several physician’s offices, including primary care, gastroenterology, general surgery, OB/GYN and specialty practices. More information on Fauquier Health is available online at FauquierHealth.org.

Surgical Care in Our Community

When you or a family member needs surgery, we have experts who can help. Our surgeons perform advanced, minimally invasive techniques using the latest technology.

With surgical care close to home, you can live your healthiest life.

Barry Aron, MD Obstetrics & Gynecology

Mohamad Salkini, MD Urology

Cynthia Dougherty, MD General Surgery

Victoria McDonald, MD Obstetrics & Gynecology

Nchang Azefor, MD General Surgery

Allan Hardy, MD Gastroenterology

Joseph Brown, MD General Surgery

Nathaniel Saint-Preux, MD General Surgery

Olga Mazur, MD General Surgery

G. Benjamin Wampler, MD General Surgery

Our Community Impact

Fauquier Health is dedicated to helping our patients live their healthiest lives. We feel privileged to be part of this community, and we take seriously the role we play in providing compassionate, accessible care to patients and their families. This past year we took major steps to expand our offerings and improve our services, further enhancing how we can serve our neighbors today and for generations to come.

2023 Community Benefits

Added 16 full-time providers to care for our community.

Inviting the best possible providers into our community and supporting them is essential to ensuring access to high-quality care. This year, we added providers in anesthesiology, cardiology, emergency and family medicine, general surgery, gastroenterology, hematology, oncology, internal medicine, interventional radiology, maternal fetal medicine, OB/GYN, orthopedics, podiatry and more.

Made nearly $2 million in capital improvements. By continually investing in our facilities, we’re helping to ensure that we continue to meet our community’s healthcare needs. Investments included an additional 3D mammogram machine and room upgrade, new ultrasound machines and surgical equipment, including a Hana table for orthopedics and da Vinci robot cameras.

Donated more than $16.1 million in services to those in need.

Delivering care to all of our neighbors, regardless of their ability to pay, is foundational to our mission and our commitment to our community.

Distributed a payroll of $59,151,891 to approximately 670 employees.

We strive to create an environment where talent is recognized, job satisfaction is valued and our employees can effectively use their skills to provide high-quality care and services.

Paid $13,952,639 in taxes.

We are proud to be a leader in our region, and our dedication to ensuring fiscal responsibility extends both to our hospital and to our community.

Bringing Quality Care to Our Community

Fauquier Health Physician Services has grown the number of primary care and OB/GYN providers in our community to give you access to the care you and your family need. Our practices are all welcoming new patients. With primary and OB/GYN care, close to home, we’ll help you live your healthiest life.

Primary Care

Fauquier Health Primary and Specialty Care at Lake Manassas 7915 Lake Manassas Drive, Ste. 101 Gainesville, VA 20155 703.743.7370

Fauquier Health Family Practice at Bealeton 6200 Station Drive • Bealeton, VA 22712 540.439.8100

Fauquier Health Primary Care at Culpeper 1100 Sunset Lane • Culpeper, VA 22701 540.316.5950

Tony Fiore, DO Family Medicine

Christopher Nagle, MD Internal Medicine

Internal Medicine

and

at Lake Manassas

Aliona Bortun, MD Family Medicine

Joseph David, MD Internal Medicine

Barry Aron, MD Obstetrics & Gynecology

Christopher Nagle, MD Internal Medicine

Monica Freidline, CNM Obstetrics & Gynecology, Midwife

Jae Lee, MD Internal Medicine

Gabriela Ammatuna, PhD, CM, IBCLC Obstetrics & Gynecology, Midwife

Candice Davis, FNP Internal Medicine

Kearn Ghuman, DO Family Medicine

Ahmed Fida, MD Family Medicine

Hasina Hamid, MD Internal Medicine

Victoria McDonald, MD Obstetrics & Gynecology

Erica Coleman, FNP Internal Medicine

Lauren Kim, CNM Obstetrics & Gynecology, Midwife

Demetrius Maoury, MD Internal Medicine

Mandy Colegrove, WHNP Gynecology

Jenna Wong, DO Family Medicine

Making Their Voices Heard

Music educator

Menzie Pittman publishes book for young musicians starting their careers

BY ROBIN EARL

Local musician and music educator

Menzie Pittman tells stories — both informational and aspirational — in his just-published book, “The New Musician: The Art of Entrepreneurship in Today’s Music Business.” Through those stories he imparts some wisdom and a hefty dose of practical advice to musicians struggling to have their voices heard in a business dense with voices struggling to be heard.

The book is well-written, functional, and fun to read. But those who live near Pittman’s music education school The Contemporary Music Center (CMC) in Haymarket, or close to Warrenton, where the author lives, may want to seek out the source. With 35 years of experience in the music business — 25 of those as a performer playing the drums — and in particular, the music education business, Pittman is eager to commune with those who share his love of creating music. His enthusiasm is contagious. Contemporary Music Center

Pittman opened the CMC in 2004. The top floor of the corner location at 4410

Ringo Starr is not the only Ringo in Menzie Pittman’s life. He and his retriever, Ringo, can be seen strolling up and down Main Street in Warrenton whenever Pittman is not at work. “Ringo will beg for biscuits at Red Truck Bakery and Great Harvest, and the chef at Black Bear knows him well.,” he said.

Costello Way features a retail space and rehearsal rooms where 20 to 25 music teachers offer lessons in keyboard, horns, strings, percussion and voice to children 8 and older. “No one ever ages out,” Pittman said.

The bottom floor features a spacious performance room — @4410 — where students are able to showcase what they’ve learned. It is a carefully designed space that celebrates all genres of music and boasts professional acoustics.

Alive with music during CMC’s year-round Rock Camps, @4410 is truly the students’ stage. Teens from Patriot and Battlefield high schools designed and painted the walls. An Abbey Road street sign has been hanging on the small stage since a former student brought it back for her mentor from the original Abbey Road in north west London.

Pittman said, “This place has an energy. The kids love playing in here.”

Preparing music students for careers

Pittman thrives on teaching music, but when he brought his daughter to college and checked out the music programs that were being offered, he realized that his students needed more than just knowing how to play an instrument if they were seeking a career in the increasingly competitive music industry. They needed some business knowledge, they needed to know how to perform, and they needed to know how to market themselves. Not everyone can afford to go to college, and students studying at most music shops were not learning these things.

With his experience as a performer and as a music educator combined with the extensive world-class industry contacts he’d made over the years, Pittman realized he had a lot to offer to help students complete the package of skills they would need. So he wrote it all down and published The New Musician: The Art of Entrepreneurship in Today’s Music Business.

“The New Musician”

Pittman’s book is a smooth mix of interviews with music industry stars interwoven with advice for those who want to make a living in music. Chapter 2, titled, “Sound Check, The Opening” starts: “This book is designed to be a playground of thoughts and ideas that stimulate and encourage the creative aspects of all developing artists while, at the same time, providing a window into understanding the art of business.”

In the “How to Read This Book” chapter, Pittman encourages the reader to take an active approach to the lessons. He suggests that readers take time to research every name and reference. “Every person in this book has made important historical contributions to the music business. And if a style

of music is mentioned, you need to know what it is,” Pittman writes.

“If you read about an equipment brand, look it up… If it’s an idea or an opinion, consider it deeply; then if you can relate, embrace it….

“Let the interviews in this book take you backstage, where you’ll get to know how successful musicians think as they share their personal feelings, insights, joys and ponderings.”

Pitman sought out and secured some impressive interview subjects. He reached out to longtime musicians, talented newcomers and industry veterans. No one turned him down, he was surprised to find.

Pittman and legendary music producer

Dave Cobb, for instance, bonded over an appreciation of Joe Walsh and Ringo Starr. Cobb said in “The New Musician,” “He [Ringo] is literally my favorite drummer because he is one of the few drummers in the world who’s a lyrical drummer…. Most drummers just play drum parts. They don’t play to the vocalist the way Ringo does. You know, he is always interacting with the lyrics.”

Pittman agreed, “Ringo’s got an amazing feel, and he is absolutely the reason I play drums.”

In Chapter 17, Pittman asked music educator Dom Famularo – nicknamed Mr. Motivational – for a list of essential traits for those who want to succeed in the music business: “Passion is a strong desire to do

Pittman began his music career as a drummer. His life’s work is introducing his students to the joy of creating music.

anything, so you have to understand passion and you have to keep on refueling it because you will be tested.

“I would probably say the second trait is perseverance… With every obstacle I have ever encountered, perseverance has made the difference … you will always hit resistance – always! When you hit a wall, you need to break through it. Or you go around it or jump over it or dig under it.”

In a chapter titled, “Welcome to the Jungle,” Pittman offers his own advice, comparing navigating a career to driving on an interstate. “There are multiple lanes, exits, destinations, good and bad drivers, and people driving at varying speeds with different agendas. Some people let you in their lane, and some cut you off… If you love the ride, put the top down, and enjoy every second of it. But if by chance there’s an accident ahead and a long backup, make sure you know the side roads. Understand that you can always change lanes.”

Summing up his motivation for writing the book, Pittman writes: “Creativity is the lead vocal, business is the harmony, and there is an art to understanding both.” L

2024

Summer Camps

& Villians, Aug 5 - 9, 9am - noon. Ages 4-6

July 15 - 26, 9am - 4pm

July 8 - 12, 1-4pm

This fast paced afternoon camp focuses on the 3 aspects of Musical Theatre - Music, Acting, Dancing. Each day students will explore a different show, giving them a wide range of styles.

This summer we will be returning to our roots with a Summer Theatre Intensive camp. Join us for Shrek Jr. June 3 - Aug 2

Both in person and virtual lessons are available.

Pittman shows off a wall in his performing space at Contemporary Music Center that recognizes music greats from the recent past.

local history

Recognition for Weston and Those Who Preserve It

Warrenton Antiquarian Society awarded for preservation excellence for its stewardship of Historic Weston

The Warrenton Antiquarian Society is the 2024 recipient of the Fauquier County Award for Preservation Excellence for its exceptional preservation and interpretation of historic Weston, and especially for producing the film “Weston, A Place Apart”.

The Fauquier County Architectural Review Board annually recognizes outstanding grassroots historic preservation efforts with this award, presented to a deserving indi-

vidual, group, organization or business that has made a significant contribution to the preservation and protection of a Fauquier County historic resource.

Not only does the Warrenton Antiquarian Society (WAS) successfully manage the ongoing preservation of Weston, a 19th century farm located in Casanova, and its many historic outbuildings, the non-profit also dedicates much of each year to providing public programming. During a given

week, adult visitors from all parts of the county and neighboring areas travel to see the house, the outbuildings, and the various interpretive displays, according to a news release. Hundreds of students visit the museum each year as part of large school tours to learn about local history and traditional farm life through interactive experiences. In recent years, educational programs have become more community focused and inclusive.

“It’s an important award,” former WAS president Mary Ashton said. “We are glad to be included in that group of organizations and people [who have been honored by the ARB]. I’d also like to thank the people willing to share their stories. It truly was a group and community effort.”

In 2023, the Society completed a short film about the history of the site, titled “Weston, A Place Apart”.

“Back several years ago, the notion of creating a video to capture the many voices

Images shown are stills from Weston’s film “Weston, A Place Apart” produced by Roger Piantadosi

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It’s never too late

Sandy Ludes of Suffield Meadows brings older adults out of their shells and into a healthier, happier

lifestyle

BY PAM KAMPHUIS PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

Until fairly recently, Sandy Ludes had never been a particularly active person. Now 80 and a certified yoga and water aerobics instructor, she is not only very active, but also helping other seniors to become and remain active as well. While this is done on a fully volunteer basis, it’s not completely altruistic; she admits to a tiny bit of selfishness that drives her: “I don’t want to live with a bunch of broken-down old bats. I want my friends to be healthy and vital,” Ludes explained.

A retired musician who played with the Piedmont Symphony Orchestra and the Fauquier Community Band, Ludes has been a resident of Suffield Meadows, an active adult community in Warrenton, since 2009. She took her first yoga class when she was in her late 60s.

“I’d always wanted to try yoga, and Suffield Meadows had the classes right here,” she said.

The community also offered water aerobics, and Ludes tried that too. “I loved both activities,” she said. “I felt better, and I knew

it was really good for me, both physically and socially. I met some wonderful people.” She went on to take some classes at the WARF like Pilates and weightlifting. “I was hooked,” she said.

Becoming an instructor

Then, after a few years, both the yoga instructor and the water aerobics instructor left. The residents of the community were disappointed. Since Ludes was a regular participant, a few asked her, “Can you lead the class?”

to get ! MOVIN’

Her first thought was, “I don’t know enough to teach, I don’t want to hurt anyone.” But she agreed, leading the classes by parroting the moves the previous instructor had done.

“Then I had an idea…what if I learned more?” she said. She began to investigate what it would take to become a certified instructor. “I was afraid someone would laugh at me, but no one has.”

By taking classes online, she became certified to teach both yoga and water aerobics

at the age of 73. The residents were thrilled that the activities were back.

Now Ludes teaches eight classes a week, some yoga, some water aerobics. She describes her classes as “kind of a mashup of yoga, Pilates, weightlifting, strength, flexibility, balance and a lot of breathing. The breathing exercises are excellent for people who want to help their heart rate. I also teach a seated class, so people [with mobility issues] don’t have to get down on a yoga mat. It’s very popular. It’s so rewarding.”

Joyce Peterson, a resident of Suffield Meadows who has known Ludes for 15 years, takes four of Ludes’s classes every week. Her husband takes three and has noticed improvement in his balance and strength.

Coming out of the shell

Ludes started researching and reading and realized how important it is for seniors to stay out and active and involved, with exercise and social contact.

The importance of social contact became

very clear when the pandemic locked everything down. But again, Ludes had an idea.

“People were crazy to get out. I started yoga in the garden. The class sizes were limited, and we maintained 15 feet between people. We held it outside. We have a lovely garden with trees and flowers. It gave people a reason to get outdoors and get together. We had amazing weather, and classes almost every day. I’m still so proud that was so successful.”

Peterson credits Ludes and her classes for helping people come out of their shells and connect with others. “It’s not just the exercise, it’s the socialization. You see other people you otherwise wouldn’t see,” she said.

Peterson pointed out that this is particularly important for the residents of The Villa at Suffield Meadows, a nearby assisted living and memory care facility. “It’s so easy for them to just stay in their apartments. It can be hard to get people out and socializing and exercising. Sandy is especially good at promoting that. She encourages people from our community to go down to the Villa and socialize and exercise with them, which my husband and I do three times a week.”

Helping her neighbors

There is no charge for the classes Ludes teaches. She is strictly on a volunteer basis. She wanted people to be able to afford to come. But she does put out a piggy bank where people can contribute, and all the money collected there is donated to the Fauquier Community Food Bank.

How much? “Thousands of dollars over time, I don’t keep track,” Ludes said. She chose the Fauquier Food Bank because

Your tax-deductible donation builds affordable homes & better

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my neighbors who are hungry. It was something everyone could participate in.”

Connecting to a wider community

“I was at Deja Brew having coffee with friends, and I overheard some customers at the next table talking about Voltran [a local volunteer service that gives free transportation to seniors who can no longer drive]. I thought, ‘Why don’t we know about this?’ I approached them, and asked them, ‘Would you like to come speak to our community?’”

That first talk grew into something more. “I asked myself, ‘What else don’t we know?’ I want to connect people with services and resources in the community that they don’t know about.” The guest talks grew into a monthly series called “Connections” which has hosted hospice providers, home health care services, an attorney, a financial planner, a Medicare expert, a historian, and more.

Duda said, “Sandy offers … knowledge about this local community and Warrenton, in general. I have tried new ideas and gone to places I may have overlooked. Individually and collectively, we are a healthier, inclusive and caring community.” L

health&fitness

Forging Ahead

Jiu-jitsu training facility opens in Warrenton

BY JENNIFER WALDERA PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

Last fall, three friends who had bonded over the love of the martial arts discipline Jiu-Jitsu casually discussed an idea of opening a local training business in Warrenton. George Davenport of Haymarket, Michael Dejarnette of Rixeyville, and Tyler Ross of Warrenton, who had been friends for about 5 years, pursued the concept, and things fell into place quickly. By December, an opportunity arose to rent a space in the heart of Warrenton and in February the trio opened the doors for a grand opening of The Forge Jiu Jitsu. A crowd of more than 100 people showed up. Since then, the business has seen nothing but growth and an outpouring of enthusiasm from the community.

“By the time we’d been open for ten weeks we already had 70 members — the market for something like this isn’t fully saturated here,” said Ross.

About the instructors

Davenport, Dejarnette, and Ross all have a strong passion for jiu-jitsu with varying levels of experience. Davenport, the major-

ity owner, is a black belt with 16 years of experience while co-owner Ross, a purple belt, has been training for five years and Dejarnette, also a co-owner and purple belt, for four. All three are instructors at The Forge and have been joined by black belt Mattie Leto of Sperryville, brown belt

The Gentle Art

Gene Bork of Warrenton, and many more passionate volunteers coaching kids, adults, and women’s classes.

The benefits of jiu-jitsu

Their love of the sport stems not only from a fitness standpoint — the discipline gives a full body workout that improves

Jiu Jitsu translates as “the gentle art” from Japanese. It is a martial arts discipline that involves gaining physical control over your opponent without causing permanent harm by neutralizing strength or size advantages through ground fighting techniques and submission holds including joint locks and chokeholds. To an observer, it can appear more like wrestling than a martial art.

Founders of The Forge George Davenport, Tyler Ross, and Michael Dejarnette

strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health, according to Bork — but also from jiu-jitsu’s impact on the mind.

“Jiu-jitsu makes you a better person: it humbles the arrogant and gives confidence to the meek. It [also] makes you smarter: [it’s] problem-solving under pressure, human chess, learning how to learn and accepting feedback,” Ross said.

Bork said, “As an instructor, I am privileged to witness the growth and development of my students. Whether it’s overcoming shyness, a constructive outlet for energy, or discovering self-confidence, the positive changes are profound and rewarding.”

It is this concept that influenced the name of the facility. “It is commonly said in jiu-jitsu that iron sharpens iron,” explained Ross. “We’re also forging ourselves through the challenge of working with other people that lift one another up and lifting ourselves up through the practice of the discipline. You could also say we’re forging friendships

Grayson Ross, 9, of Warrenton and Indiana Cordy, 10, of Amissville

as well.”

Ross says that one teenager at The Forge has called the training life-changing, helping her to overcome her social anxiety. He points to the opportunities for students to teach as a confidence booster as well.

“Teaching is a great way to learn [and it’s] a great experience for self-confidence. We have a 15-year-old teaching in a few weeks — everyone who wants a chance can teach. We want people to crowd-source and share their spin or philosophy,” Ross said.

Something for everyone

It is that same perspective that contributes to another reason why the three are passionate about the sport -- building a sense of community.

“[It] builds community: all walks of life [are] brought together by a common desire to do something difficult that takes a long time to master. We have a tax attorney, neuroscientist, accountant, general contractor, cops, firemen, engineer, stay-at-home

Rhyenne L., 12, of Goldvein and Kelsey D., 12, of Haymarket

moms — all who accept that we’re all the same on the mats. You can’t get better without the people with you getting better — it brings people together,” Ross said.

The sport also is a way for families to bond. Ross’s children train at The Forge and his wife Sarah teaches yoga there as well. While there is a Sunday family day, there are plenty of opportunities for nearly all ages of family members to train.

Heather Francis of Warrenton and her family have been members at The Forge since it opened, having previously experienced jiu-jitsu at their gym. Francis, her husband Andrew, and children, Colston, 13, Hunter, 10, and Hayley, 9 all participate in classes together and separately. Francis appreciates the team environment without the competition mindset. “You work as a team, but you’re also on your own journey. You’re helping each other learn at your own pace.”

Francis appreciates the opportunity to share the experience with her family. “Being part of jiu-jitsu as a parent is different than if the kids played baseball or soccer. This I can participate in too. It’s unique to have that common bond. Also, we’re doing this together as a family, we’re not all running in different directions to different practices and games.”

While Francis and her family enjoy the training for the exercise, camaraderie, and growth opportunities, Francis also appreciates the self-defense skills both for herself and her daughter.

What the future holds

In addition, The Forge is focused on giving back to the community. Not only are

Tyler and Grayson Ross

they providing a warm, welcoming, and safe space for families and individuals to train, but they are also committed to supporting local law enforcement and first responders by offering membership discounts.

While The Forge is in its infancy as a small business in Warrenton, Davenport, Dejarnette, and Ross already have their eyes on the future and a vision for what the business will look like as it evolves. The three actively plan enriching events like a seminar with a world champion black belt, but they’re also staying focused on the simple means of making training inclusive and engaging.

“It’s for everybody, it’s worth trying. The people [who] are intimidated by it will find a very warm welcome with lots of people willing and anxious to help.” Ross said.

“We want to be high-level, fun, and family-oriented [and] keep it manageable but try to meet the demand and try to continue to develop people who want to teach or have a career in jiu-jitsu.” L

The Forge Jiu Jitsu 367B Shirley Ave., Warrenton W: theforgejiujitsu.com

Charlotte’s Charm

Children’s clothing made locally with love

BY MARY SCRO

When Michele Modrzynski Xiloj was a young girl, she delighted in making hand-sewn clothes for her dolls. Little did she know that passion would rekindle later in her life at just the right time.

Xiloj grew up in Northern Virginia. After high school she held various jobs and felt that speaking Spanish would be helpful. In 2017 she embraced learning the language through the help of friends and by practicing regularly with Spanish-speaking friends and customers.

Three years later Xiloj found out just how important knowing Spanish would be.

In 2020, while working at Chick-Fil-A in Haymarket, one of Xiloj’s regular customers who didn’t speak much English caught her eye. The feeling was mutual…and the rest, as they say, is history. The two married in 2021 and had their first child, Charlotte, the following year. Her honeymoon baby, as Xiloj calls her, is the inspiration behind all that

has happened since then. From a baptism gown to a clothing line When it came time to christen her baby, Xiloj wanted Charlotte to have a unique and memorable baptism gown. To make it special, she decided to create it herself. She taught herself to sew by watching YouTube videos and practicing. She successfully created the gown, and then decided to make a new dress each month for Charlotte to wear in her monthly picture.

Xiloj’s mother kept saying, “You should sell these,” but since Xiloj was still working and involved with a local nonprofit project, she didn’t have time.

Then in December 2022, Xiloj became unemployed. She was able to find a shortterm nanny job, but when it ended, she realized she didn’t want to work away from home and away from Charlotte. By that time Xiloj was making all her daughter’s clothes, so she had several patterns created. She also had a newborn nephew whose mother was very willing to have Xiloj make clothes for her son.

“I’ve always enjoyed researching children’s clothing and seeing what’s available,” Xiloj said. With a vision of making afford-

able, sustainable clothes for children, she started designing cute outfits for girls with matching bows and headbands, then boy’s clothing and styles that can be worn by both boys and girls. She developed her Grow With Me line of onesies, shirts, pants, and one-piece rompers that are designed to be adjustable so kids can wear them through multiple sizes.

Working from home

As with most people who work from home, space is at a premium in the Xiloj household. Working out of a corner of the living room, fabric, supplies, and tools were hard to keep neat and crept into the family’s living space. Xiloj’s husband came to the rescue, hand-crafting a folding cabinet workspace for his wife.

“Last year my husband kept saying, ‘you’re only getting one present this year’. I knew it had to be something big, but did not expect this beautiful cabinet that he built himself. It’s perfect,” said Xiloj. “And it didn’t take me long to fill it up!”

The cabinet fits supplies and finished clothing in many shelves and compartments, as well as providing space for Xiloj’s two sewing machines. One, a Brother Serger machine that her husband bought her last

Charlotte’s Charm Clothing

Made to last

All clothes are made to stand the test of time. Not only that, the Grow With Me line adjusts as the child grows, lasting 1-3 years. That, with gender-neutral designs, means clothing can be handed down from one child to the next. Also, when giving as a gift, the size doesn’t need to be exact.

Comfortable

All clothes are made from quality modal cotton, much of it organic, which breathes and is soft on the little one’s skin. Children can play, sleep, and look nice for an outing.

Organic

The fabric is sourced through Little Cocalico, a family-owned and operated company in Pennsylvania that specializes in organic and American-milled print-on-demand fabric.

Practical

Modal cotton is stretchy, so it slips off easily for changing diapers yet is formfitting around the wrists and ankles, so it stays on. Some styles also have zippers or snaps.

year, she uses to create neat and professional seams. The other is a gifted 30-year-old Bernina sewing machine with extensive functions for more elaborate work.

Leaping into business

Last spring, Xiloj focused on making clothes to build up her inventory and start selling. She set up her business LLC in June and booked herself at the Marshall Farmer’s Market for her first sales outing.

Then Xiloj started selling at the Historic Manassas Farmers Market almost every Saturday, and the Buchanan Hall Farmers Market every third Wednesday on Bazaar Day. Several people asked her if her clothes were available online, so she set up a website for online browsing and shopping.

With an eye on general children’s clothing trends, she continues to expand her inventory. A few new designs on her radar for the future include Grow With Me footie pajamas, onesies with footies, and zip-up pajamas with footies. All her designs are first

Michele, her husband Kevin, and Charlotte. Michele made them mommy-and-me dresses for a wedding they attended. She will also make them for customers upon request.

tried out on her willing models: her daughter and nephew.

Building community

At the local markets, Xiloj meets other vendors who also have quality products to sell. Buying locally has become a practice for their family, including the food they eat, gifts, and household items. Xiloj realizes the value of local businesses supporting each other.

“Last year everything we had for Christmas was either made by me or by another local small business,” she said.

Last year she joined the “Tiny But Mighty” Cape Project when Kathryn Kadilak of The Plains put out a call for help on the NextDoor app. The hugely successful project made capes for premature and NICU babies to honor their courage and encourage their families.

“I was at home with my daughter, and

Local Heroes

it was something I could do at home, on my own time. I felt like I was helping these parents,” Xiloj said. “My baby was born at full term, but I can’t imagine what it’s like to have to leave your baby in the hospital and not know if it’s going to make it. But I could at least help with the capes.”

Xiloj became one of the most prolific seamstresses in the group, producing 60 capes that spring. She plans to continue to help the project.

In the future

Thankful to have found a way to stay at home with Charlotte, Xiloj would like to help other moms do so as well. She hopes to have enough business to hire other women who like to sew (or would like to learn) and who want to stay at home with their little ones.

“I want to give other moms the opportunity I’ve had: to be at home with my daughter and continue to support my family,” said Xiloj. L

charlottescharmllc.com I: @charlottescharmllc

Sisters on the Front Line (May 2020)

Fauquier natives Natasha Lorenzen, Battalion Chief, Fauquier County Fire and Rescue, and Jessica Randall, RN, Fauquier Health, each faced COVID-19 in their respective jobs. We told their story! Do you know any local heroes?

Fauquier’s

TOP 10

Top Sales

The ten highest-priced homes that sold between mid-April and midMay in Fauquier County. Data and photos from Zillow.com.

1749 ATOKA RD., MARSHALL

$7,800,000

April 30

acres

7203 LEETON CT., WARRENTON

$1,500,000 Sold: May 2

410 ALEXANDRIA PIKE, WARRENTON

$1,450,000

6729 CARTER CT., WARRENTON $1,000,000

May 21

5715 OLD FOREST LN., WARRENTON

$985,000

17

The Big Picture

The real estate market has been more active in the Greater Piedmont area compared to last March, with a 8.3% increase in sales activity and a 30.1% increase in pending sales. The median sales price also continues to climb. At $520,000, that's a 7.2% increase from last March. Inventory levels have declined by 5.5%, which marks the eighth consecutive month that the Greater Piedmont market has seen it decrease.

—Greater Piedmont REALTORS® 2024 President Steve Gardner

The March Details for Fauquier County

Compared to March 2023

Median Sales Price: $555,000, up 12%

Sales Activity: 75, down 15%

Days on Market: 48, up 21%

Greater Piedmont REALTORS® is a trade association representing 650 REALTORS® in Fauquier, Culpeper, Rappahannock, and Madison counties.

8064 SIDE HILL DR., WARRENTON

$985,000 Sold: May 2

3417 WOODED RUN DR., BROAD RUN

$859,990 Sold: May 10

Nice Rice and Damage Control

BY KARLA JONES SEIDITA, HOME ECONOMIST

Rice is nice but blah. How can I give plain rice oomph? Rice is the world’s most popular grain. White rice. Brown rice. Arborio, Basmati and Jasmine. Long grain. Short grain. Instant or parboiled. There’s a rice for every taste that will complement every recipe. Try these recipes for an interesting twist on an old favorite.

Apple, Cinnamon and White Wine Rice

A sophisticated blend of flavors that cooks into the rice. Pairs nicely with roast pork, ham, turkey or any grilled white fish.

SERVES 4 TO 6

INGREDIENTS

4 Tablespoons butter

1 medium onion (chopped – about ¾ cup)

2 medium apples (any type – peeled, cored and chopped – about 2 cups)

1/2 cup pecan pieces

1/8 teaspoon pepper

2 cups apple cider

2 cups medium sweet white wine (like Reisling)

1 cup jasmine or parboiled rice (like Ben’s)

2 bouillon cubes (chicken or vegetable)

1/4 cup raisins

2 (2” long) cinnamon sticks

2 Tablespoons dried parsley

DIRECTIONS

1. Melt butter in a medium pot.

2. Add onion, apples, pecans and pepper.

3. Cook on medium (uncovered) till soft –about 5 minutes.

4. Stir in remaining ingredients.

5. Cover pot. Simmer until rice is cooked –about 30 minutes.

6. Serve any remaining liquid over the rice.

Oven Baked Mushroom and French Onion Risotto

Hosting a dinner party? Can’t beat this easy, guaranteed-to-impress side dish. Slow baking develops its rich taste and leaves you lots of time to fuss with other things. Pairs well with roast chicken, roast beef, chops, and sausage.

SERVES 6 TO 8

INGREDIENTS

1 (12.5 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup

2 cups broth (any type)

1 cup long grain, parboiled rice (like Ben’s)

2 onions (chopped – about 1 ½ cups)

8 oz. fresh mushrooms (sliced – about 3 cups)

6 stalks celery (chopped – about 1 ½ cups)

1/3 cup dried onion pieces

2 teaspoons onion powder

1/4 teaspoon coarse grind pepper (no salt)

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Grease a 9” x 13” pan or mist with cooking spray.

3. In a large bowl, whisk soup and broth. Stir in remaining ingredients.

4. Pour into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.

5. Cover with foil. Bake till rice is done – about 2 hours.

At

At FirstLight, the care we provide goes beyond the basics of bathing and medication reminders. If you or your loved one wants to work in the garden or play a cherished game, we’re there. Our

•Conversation & company

At FirstLight, the care we provide goes beyond the basics of bathing and medication reminders. If you or your loved one wants to work in the garden or play a cherished game, we’re there. Our team, led by local owners, Mark and Stacey Harvey, will spend time getting to know your family and finding ways to enrich your lives. Let us create a personalized care plan to fit your needs:

Transportation, shopping & errands

•Conversation & company

• Conversation & company

• Conversation & company

• Medication reminders

•Conversation & company

•Laundry

• Medication reminders

• Medication reminders

•Walking & mobility assistance

•Walking & mobility assistance

• Walking & mobility assistance

• Transportation, shopping & errands

• Transportation, shopping & errands

•

• Transportation, shopping & errands

•Assistance

•Laundry & light housekeeping

• Laundry & light housekeeping

•Mail & paperwork organization

•Mail & paperwork organization

• Mail & paperwork organization

• Bathing, dressing & hygiene

• Bathing, dressing & hygiene

• Bathing,

• Bathing, dressing & hygiene

Caring

Caring husband and wife team, Mark & Stacey Harvey... here to make a difference.

•Assistance with meals

• Assistance with meals

•And much more!

• And much more!

Warrenton.FirstLightHomeCare.com

Fixing Kitchen

Disasters

DISASTERS Fixing Kitchen

I’m a disaster in the kitchen. How can I fix my failures? Food is too expensive to throw away! We’ve all had recipes that didn’t turn out. Try to salvage what you can before you toss them. Here’s some damage control ideas.

Recipe Disaster: Leftover bread, biscuits, or rolls

Remedy: Crumble and freeze till you have enough to make a breakfast casserole, meatloaf, meat balls, stuffing or bread pudding. Or pulse dry crumbles in the food processor to make bread crumbs.

Recipe Disaster: Leftover Cake (with or without frosting or filling)

Remedy: Cut cake into cubes and layer with pudding and/or pie filling. Refrigerate overnight to moisten the cake. Serve cold or heat portions in the microwave. Top with whipped cream.

Recipe Disaster: Leftover Fruit Pies

Remedy: Crumble crust and filling into individual serving bowls. Microwave to heat. Top with ice cream.

Recipe Disaster: Overbaked Casseroles

Remedy: Generously top with cheese. Return to oven until cheese melts. Garnish with chopped, fresh parsley if you happen to have some. Parsley. It makes everything look good.

Recipe Disaster: Salty Soups or Stews

Remedy: Add a little sugar – not much – just enough to take the salty edge off. Or add a potato which has been cut in half and cook about 20 minutes to soak up the salt. Remove the potato before serving.

Recipe Disaster: Liquid-y Soups or Stews

Remedy: Boil (uncovered) to evaporate excess liquid. Or mix some corn starch into a little cold water, stir in and boil to thicken. Or stir in a little dry, instant mashed potato flakes till you like the thickness.

Recipe Disaster: Gravy, Stew or Soup tastes blah

Remedy: Add a dollop of ketchup. Or a dash of hot sauce. Or stir in a little soy sauce. Or add more salt and pepper. Or all three (one at a time), tasting as you go.

Recipe Disaster: Lumpy Gravy or Sauces

Remedy: Strain and discard lumps. Or whirl in the blender till smooth.

Recipe Disaster: Greasy Soups, Stews and Gravies

Remedy: Refrigerate. The fat will float to the top and form easy-to-remove solids. (Cook’s Tip – To discard removed fat, store it in a disposable container in the freezer until trash day then toss it (frozen) into the trash bag. Pouring fat down the drain causes clogs.)

Recipe Disaster: Noodles or Pasta that stick together

Remedy: After cooking (and rinsing if you rinse) return to the pot and drizzle with a little vegetable oil. Toss to coat.

Recipe Disaster: Too Spicy

Remedy: Stir in a little dark or semi-sweet chocolate till it melts. Or stir in some plain yogurt, sour cream, or coconut milk.

Recipe Disaster: Runny Mashed Potatoes

Remedy: Stir in some dry, instant mashed potato flakes.

Add-In Rice

The quickest and easiest way to make plain rice fancy. Pick one of the add-ins and stir it into two cups of cooked rice.

Pesto Rice

stir in 3

Tablespoons pesto.

Sichuan Rice

stir in 1 Tablespoon Chinese chili garlic sauce.

Orange Rice

stir in 1/3 cup sweet orange marmalade (not regular, English or Seville marmalades which are bitter).

Parm and Parsley Rice

stir in ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese and ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley.

Thai Peanut Rice

stir in ½ cup peanuts, 2 teaspoons soy sauce, and ½ teaspoon sesame oil.

Sausage Rice

stir in ½ cup cooked, crumbled sausage and 2 Tablespoons pan drippings.

About the Home Economist

Karla Jones Seidita has cooked up a very tasty life. She has been a restaurant and bakery owner, award-winning food writer, lifestyle radio host, cookbook author, country inn proprietor, and farm-to-table teacher. Currently she spends her days at her laptop and in her garden in Sumerduck. Find her at cheesecakefarms.com

Summer Vacation, One Glass at a Time

BY DANIEL DUCA

Sea Breeze

1.5 oz. Fresh Grapefruit Juice

3 oz. Cranberry Juice

1.5 oz. Vodka

Build in a highball glass with ice, stir, and garnish with a lime wheel.

Now we welcome June, and with it, the heat and humidity. If you have been following my column so far, then you will not be surprised by my proposed solution: cocktails. Refreshment is the main focus in this lineup, with a heavy citrus element leading the way. They’re simple builds on purpose, for sometimes we don't have the time to be complex when we’re in dire need of a quick cooler.

June also means the start of summer break: children running freely, parents having to move from practices to camps to vacation spanning from week to week to week. It can be a little overwhelming at times. To get through it, you might need a drink. I’ll be joining you from afar. Cheers.

Army and Navy

1 Dash Angostura Bitters

.75 oz. Orgeat

1 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice

2 oz. London Dry Gin

Add all ingredients into a shaker tin with ice, shake, and fine strain into a chilled glass. Express and garnish with a grapefruit twist.

DANIEL DUCA is the founder and head bartender at Duca Bar Company, a high-end private event bartending service. W: calendly.com/ducabarcompany/consultationcall I: @ducabarcompany P: 540-729-7667

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