FPFAPRIL2019 by Virginia Grogan

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history’s stories: USS CHANCELLORSVILLE heritage: VIRGINIA PROTECTIVE FORCES

cVBT.....LOCAL PRESERVATION GROUP SAVES BATTLEFIELDS

Dr. Christopher Ryder Deeply Rooted in FXBG

20 Senior Care: KNOCK ON THE DOOR 21

it’s all energy...STAY GROUNDED TO STAY HEALTHY

Matt McHale Signature Creations

emancipated patients: MEET BRIAN KEENAN

ARIES ELEVEN....IMPROVING SELF IMAGE

mYSTERY hOUSE ART FOR PARK

art in the burg

Cathy Herndon sees portholes everywhere

Porch talk 4

on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages

what’s in a yard? George Lewis House

master gardeners....harbingers of spring

everything greens: farm to family dinner

certified organic or certified naturally grown

ON STAGE @SHS

Companions: HOPPING INTO SPRING

astrology & you poetryman

fredericksburg sketches #fred strong

...And more!

DermA Envie...the drummonds

I have a friend...senior sister

season’s bounty: April = asparagus

COOKING WITH KYLE: CANDIED PECANS

vino...FRAPPATO

24 CELEBRATION OF CERAMIC ARTS

16-17

Calendar of events

On the Trails to baseball

MATT REPASS OF BLUE SHARK ANTIQUES

Cover: “Drummer Boy of 1862” By David C. Kennedy

april 2019

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Dr. Christopher Ryder UMW Choral Director Cherishes Community Connections

Working in academia can pose challenges for faculty who frequently move to unfamiliar places to secure lucrative positions. Fortunately for Dr. Christopher Ryder, University of Mary Washington's newest Director of Choral Activities, the connections that often take years to establish are rooted deeply in his personal history.

Ryder's family moved to Fredericksburg when he was two years old. He attended local schools, watched the town grow over the years, and even chose Mary Washington College for further education at a time when he says many high school graduates were opting to move away from home to continue their studies and pursue careers. Ryder's first

teaching jobs were at elementary and high schools in Spotsylvania and Stafford counties while he finished graduate school. Ryder moved away from Fredericksburg for just two years while teaching at Concord University in West Virginia. He soon returned to the area, however, to take a position at RandolphMacon College in Ashland, Virginia, where he remained for thirteen years before returning home to teach at his alma mater, UMW. Ryder directs three choirs at UMW. The UMW Chamber Choir and UMW Chorus are strictly for students of UMW and Germanna Community College which participates in a partnership and guaranteed admissions program with Fredericksburg Singers UMW. The welcomes both university students and community members. Additionally, Ryder directs a number of choirs at Fredericksburg Baptist Church, as well as the Fredericksburg Community Chorus, a choir whose sole purpose is to bring singers together to perform Handel's Messiah during the Christmas season. Ryder says, "I've been part of this community my whole life, so I'm excited about being more integrally involved. UMW is working college-wide to step up what we're doing in terms of community engagement. Since choral music is all about community, it's a perfect fit. We have three choirs: two are all students, but one includes people from the community as well. We even have some high school students who are selected to join us in addition to our many college students and a lot of people from the area who just like to sing." "One of the great things about a large, community-based choir is that there is room for all voices," Ryder says. "There are people with a lot of training sitting alongside novice singers. There's

By A.E. Bayne

also a real advantage to mixing singers from different age groups because each group has its vocal advantages, and with a mixed group you can showcase those advantages to great effect." All three UMW Choirs, including more than a hundred singers from the University and the Fredericksburg community, will showcase their diverse voices this month in a special concert titled I Dream A World - Poetry in Song which will feature poetry set to musical compositions. It will take place at 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 14 at Fredericksburg Baptist Church. They will be accompanied by Karlee Thomson for Fredericksburg Singers and Cathy Hoskins for the UMW student choirs. Ryder describes this unique performance: "April is National Poetry Month, so we're celebrating with music and verse. It's a good pairing because poems offer rich text, and if you get a composer who knows how voices work, they can bring it all together. We have seventeen pieces by different composers in the concert paired with verse that is all over the map - everything from Shakespeare to Edgar Allan Poe." Ryder invites the community to participate in the Fredericksburg Singers and the Fredericksburg Community Chorus, which is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year by performing the entirety of Handel's Messiah for their concert in December 2019. He encourages all those who are interested to contact him atcryder@umw.edu or at 540-6541960.

AE Bayne is an organizing Partner in Fred. Independent Book Festival and the publisher of Fredericksburg Literary & Art Review

Sneadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Asparagus Farm NEW Pick Your Own Asparagus & Snap Peas Visit sneadsfarm.com for Details 10 mi. S.E. of downtown on Rt. 17

540/371-9 9328

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april 2019

Bill Freehling

ON THE PORCH Guest Porch Editorial

Contributing Writers & Artists Rita Allan

A.E. Bayne Jennifer Bangoura Laurie Black Collette Caprara Meghann Cotter Frank Fratoe Joan M. Geisler Alexis Grogan Karl Karch

Dianne Bachman Kevin Brown Trista Chapman Christina Ferber Bill Freehling Jon Gerlach Ralph “Tuffy”Hicks David C. Kennedy Cecelia Kirkman Jo Loving Lenora Kruk-Mullananphy Pete Morelewicz Vanessa Moncure Patrick Neustatter Susan Pates Sarah Perry Gabe Pons M.L. Powers Gerri Reid John Reifenberg Rob Rudick Paul Scott Casey Alan Shaw Josh Stansfield Georgia Strentz James Kyle Synder Brian Will Tina Will Dawn Whitmore Norma Woodward Suzy Woollam Nicole Ziesing

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

The mission of Front Porch Fredericksburg is to connect the diverse citizenry of Fredericksburg with lively features and informative columns of interest to our community’s greatest resource, its people. Messages from our readers are welcome. All submissions must be received by e-mail by the 19th of the month preceding publication. Writers / Artists / Photographers are welcome to request Guidelines and query the Publisher by e-mail. Front Porch Fredericksburg PO Box 9203 Fredericksburg, VA 22403 Ad Sales: E-Mail: frntprch@aol.com Web Site: www.frontporchfredericksburg.com Facebook: @Front Porch Fredericksburg The opinions expressed in Front Porch Fredericksburg are those of the contributing writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Front Porch Fredericksburg or its advertisers. Copyright 2019 Olde Towne Publishing Co. All rights reserved.

April 2019

travels lead to appreciation by Bill freehling After years of lying dormant, the travel bug has returned for my wife and me And that, in turn, has further increased our appreciation for what we have here in our itty bitty city of Fredericksburg. Both my wife, Emily, and I were reasonably active travelers in our youth, college years and early adulthood. While we have yet to make it to farther-flung places such as Asia, Australia or Antarctica, we have traveled fairly extensively throughout the U.S., Europe and more. In our younger days, both of us loved the adventure, spontaneity and new experiences that travel offers. Emily and I met in 2002 while both working as reporters for The News & Advance newspaper in Lynchburg. We moved to Fredericksburg two years later to begin our jobs with The Free LanceStar, and married in 2006. While we certainly took some fun trips in the first decade and a half of our relationship, our focus was largely on establishing our careers and family. As anyone with small children can attest, traveling with the little ones is not always easy, and travel options are somewhat limited without Herculean efforts. A few years back we decided to venture to New York City. Our children were about 3 and 5 at the time. To our surprise, we realized that traveling with the kids was now really fun. There were now so many more things we could do together, and those options have grown in the subsequent few years. Last summer brought a trip to Iceland, and we have several adventures in the works this year. I find my brain frequently pondering potential future destinations. But the more we travel, the more I appreciate what Fredericksburg has to offer. Perhaps most obviously, Fredericksburg is a super-convenient

jump-off place. During trips to New York City we don't step foot in a car instead walking to the downtown train station from our house, riding the Amtrak to Penn Station and taking the Subway throughout the Big Apple. Weekend jaunts to the mountains or beach are easy, and the Washington airports (and sometimes Richmond's, too) offer direct connections to w o r l d - c l a s s destinations. But Fredericksburg is special for more than just its super location. I have rarely seen a city that offers the kind of mixed-use convenience afforded by downtown Fredericksburg. Sure, in most cities you will find high-rise condos and apartments that are easily walkable to parks, restaurants, specialty retailers, coffee shops, mass transit, a river, trails, museums, art galleries and more. But it is rare to be able to live in neighborhoods offering beautiful 18th-, 19th-, 20th- and 21st-century single-family homes that are so walkable to those same great amenities. Downtown Fredericksburg is the original mixed-use community, and thus retains a charm and authenticity that can't be replicated by newer developments trying to do the same. Thanks to organizations such as HFFI and the Architectural Review Board, that historic feel will be retained in Fredericksburg even as newer projects get

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I enjoy the Front Porch and think it's a great read. Carrie Heflin

Front Porch Thank you so much for all you do to promote events in the area! Beth Spragins

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Excited to be featured in February issue! ("An Eye for Splendor", February 2019) Thanks, Josh Stansfield Thanks so much for giving us a shout out Matt & Tracy (On the Trails, Matt Boyd & Tracy Dzibela"), February 2019) FXBG Trails Alliance Enjoying the Mystery House photos & articles! Tom Jones

added to the mix. Thanks to the everexpanding trails network, Fredericksburg's walkability continues to improve, and with it more and more residences are conveniently connected to the central core. That, I am confident, will continue to draw people to our 10.4 square miles nestled in between two rapidly growing cities. And that is why my family will continue to appreciate the home we have to return to at the conclusion of what I hope to be many great adventures to come.

Bill Freehling is Fredericksburg's director of economic development and tourism. He lives in downtown Fredericksburg with his wife, two children and small dog. He has been reading The Front Porch cover to cover for 15 years.

Hi Virginia Thank you for putting "Red Bench, City Dock" on your cover in February. I received many positive comments about the photo and artist bio. The coverage is greatly appreciated. Penny A Parrish

Hi Virginia, Thanks community. Elaine Mason

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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in a Yard? The george lewis house By jon gerlach

look on the BRIGHT SIDE 723 Caroline St 899.8077 Daily 10-5:30; Sunday 12-5

Fredericksburg's history abounds with interesting stories. In some cases, the factual basis of a story can be authenticated by careful research. The story of the George Lewis House, located at 1116 Prince Edward Street, is a great example. Based on insurance records, the George Lewis House was built sometime prior to 1796, after town leaders passed an ordinance encouraging new home construction. Susan Pates has done a ton of research on the house. "Major George Lewis served in the capacity of aide-tocamp to his uncle, General George Washington, during the American Revolution. At the Battle of Princeton, New Jersey, he was with General Hugh Mercer when he died," she says. George Lewis led Virginia troops in the Whiskey Rebellion, and probably built the house after his return. Many other people occupied the George Lewis House over the centuries, including a mayor, judge, two naval captains, and Mary Washington's physician. During a recent dinner party at the lovely George Lewis House hosted by owners Meredith Fox and Richard

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Finkelstein, I noticed a 12 pound cannonball serving as a doorstop. It was found in the house years ago, fired during the Battle of Fredericksburg according to legend. There's more to the story: in the early 1900s human skeletal remains were reportedly uncovered in the back yard when new post-holes were dug for a fence. Over the years, the story was told with various twists: Confederate graves on the one hand, and Union soldiers who had "died in the streets" on the other. A poignant and well-known photograph in the Library of Congress, reprinted here, shows the burial of Union dead in Fredericksburg. Different theories circulated for years about where this photograph was taken. Finally, in 2015 we had the answer. Historian Noel Harrison in a two-part series on Wordpress.com Century of Research entitled "A Quarter-C on Fredericksburg's 'Burial of the Dead' Photographs," pinpointed the location of the burials. By carefully studying architectural features in the photograph, taking into account different camera angles and being familiar with the neighborhood and local history, Harrison positively identified the buildings in the background: the Chew House on the left (1202 Prince Edward Street), and the George Lewis House (aka Robert Duerson House) on the far right (see inset photo with rooflines and chimney of the George Lewis House highlighted in red). In May 1864 when the photo was taken, Fredericksburg was the site of field hospitals for thousands of wounded Union soldiers carried here in wagons from the battlefields of the Wilderness and Spotsylvania. Kenmore Plain - a large open area between William Street and

historic Kenmore Mansion, and adjoining the back yard of the George Lewis House became a burial place for many men who did not survive their hospital ordeals. After the war most of the headboards were gone, and starting in 1866 several hundred bodies were exhumed and moved to the National Cemetery atop Marye's Heights. Thanks to diligent research and good old shoe leather work, the 1864 burials probably account for human remains found in the back yard of the George Lewis House. So â&#x20AC;Ś what's in a Yard? Here, a great example of how careful research can flesh out the bones of history (sorry about that), and breathe new life into old legends. An attorney and retired archaeologist, Jon Gerlach chairs the Architectural Review Board in Fredericksburg. Modern photo courtesy Susan Pates, 1864 photo courtesy Library of Congress, inset enhanced by Jon Gerlach

Supporting Historic Preservation Since 1997

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April 2019

In the Garden with the Master Gardeners harbingers of spring early flowers By Tina Will have many of these along their paths. Many of us know of Twinleaf with its mirror image leaves. Thomas Jefferson grew Twinleaf at Monticello, and Benjamin Smith Barton (“Father of American Botany”) gave it its botanical name, Jeffersonia diphylla to honor him in 1792. Kenmore House has these growing in its front woodland walkway. I make a

photo by Brian Will “Trillium White” Have you taken a walk in the woods lately? Many of the Spring Ephemeral wild flowers are blooming now or will be over the next few weeks. What is a spring ephemeral? It is a plant with a short life cycle, generally lasting about two weeks, more or less. Most of these are small woodland plants that are worth looking for, but are often hard to spot. Spring Beauty is deservedly named with little pink striped flowers that last a bit longer than some. Another, in the carrot family, is ‘Harbinger of Spring’ or ‘Pepper and Salt’. Other beauties include: Bloodroot, Hepatica, Trout Lilly, Virginia Bluebells, Trilliums, Wood Poppy, Wood Anemone, Mayapple (deer eat mine!), Dwarf Crested Iris, and Twinleaf. All are up and showing buds, or flowering early. Once done flowering, seed heads might be visible for a while, some plants will persist, and some will go dormant entirely until next Spring. Take a walk in the woods this spring; and notice the beauty down by your feet. Our river and quarry trails as well as Caledon State Park

photo by Brian Will “Hepatica” special effort to check for it as soon as plants begin emerging since it only takes about two days once the bud is formed for it to have flowered and set seed, often disappearing completely a few days later.

The Twinleaf seed heads, though, are quite ornamental; they look like a lamppost to me, and also resemble a chrysalis. The seed head cap opens like a hinged lid when the capsule is ripe to release the seeds. Spring also heralds the reappearance of photo by Brian Will our Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) Plant Clinics staffed by Master Gardeners. Three Plant Clinics are set up at libraries on week nights: Salem Church Branch, Porter Branch, and at the new library location in Spotsylvania Mall across from the Post Office. Four more Plant Clinic locations are outdoors on Saturdays at Farmers Markets: Hurkamp Park, Gordon Road (Commuter Lot), King George, and Stafford (near the hospital). Celebrate V i r g i n i a (neighborhood) off Route 17 also has one. Check the schedules on our website: mgacra.org (calendar page). Come with your questions; we have lots of information to share!

“Lily of the Valley” We are pleased to welcome the twenty people who trained in Fall 2018 to become our next group of Extension Master Gardeners. Many have already begun their volunteer work by helping establish Cedell Brooks Jr. Native Plant Demonstration Garden in King George. Several shared that they enjoy interacting with the public and, coupled with a love for gardening and desire to increase their horticultural knowledge, the Master Gardener training was a natural fit. To reinforce what they learned each one had to do a research project on a particular topic. Nancy Bevilacqua chose to study Cottony Maple Scale, Lisa Ellis researched the Hemlock Wooly Adelgid, Raymond Polcha wrote an Ode to Boxwood because of the Boxwood Blight, Mike DiSalvo chose to study Tomato Blossom End Rot, and Manon Dixon focused on Sooty Mold on Hollies. We welcome all of them! Tina Will has volunteered with MGACRA for 13 years and lives near Ferry Farm in Stafford County.

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April 2019

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On the Trails taking the trails to baseball By Kevin Brown

Baseball is coming to the ‘Burg! And did you know that over a fifth of our city residents live less than a 2-mile walking (40 min)/biking (20 min) distance to the new stadium? To encourage use of our city’s trails for commuting to baseball games and other stadium events, a new initiative called “Taking the Trails to Baseball” or T4B, has been created. TB4 encourages Fredericksburg citizens and guests who are able and willing to ‘Take the Trails’ to the stadium. In doing so, participants will enjoy the benefits of personal fitness, community building, and environment improvement. Once the new stadium opens in April 2020, the Fall Hill Ave Trail will become ‘Baseball Trail,’ providing a welcoming pathway for walkers and bike riders to travel to the stadium. To demonstrate this TB4 initiative, leading up to the February groundbreaking ceremony

at the Fredericksburg Expo Center, an inaugural parade along ‘Baseball Trail’ was held. The weather was perfectly sunny and breezy, and a group of fun-loving citizens shared some wholesome exercise and social camaraderie, while also picking up litter along the trail. This community gathering illuminated an attractive byproduct for those who walk to future stadium events. If you join with friends/family and clean up litter during your trek, your group will be providing a community service by beautifying one of our city’s major corridors. This concept is similar to the German Volksmarch, which brings a community together in a collective outdoor walk with a positive purpose. Why take the trails? The city of Fredericksburg has made significant investments in its multi-use trails to include the Canal Path, River Heritage

Trail, and Fall Hill Ave/Baseball Trail. These well-planned avenues permit residents who live along the Fall Hill corridor, and adjoining neighborhoods all the way to historic downtown to transit to the new stadium on foot or bike. For some folks, traveling by bicycle may be the most attractive option, and bike racks will be provided at the stadium for bike parking. For others, walking (or jogging, roller blading, skateboarding) will be the preferred option. If you choose to begin your journey to the stadium on the River Heritage Trail, you will walk alongside the breathtaking beauty of the Falls of the Rappahannock. For those transiting via the Canal Path, you will experience the wide variety of wildlife that exists along the Rappahannock Canal. As you merge from either of these pathways onto the ‘Baseball Trail’, your adventure will continue up the route hiked by famous explorer John Smith over 400 years ago to investigate a westward passage after his sturdy shallop boat was stymied by the rocky Falls of the Rappahannock.

As you take the Baseball Trail up to the top of Fall Hill, you will pass by several housing complexes and the Sunshine Ball Park, and then cross over the Martin Luther King Memorial Bridge which spans I-95. The Baseball Trail will then take you past a few hotels where you will turn right onto walkways that will culminate a short distance further at the stadium. So for all you motivated baseball fans, and stadium event attendees who are physically able, we invite you to join Fredericksburg’s T4B movement, and invest in your personal health, your community’s strength, and the cleanliness of our local environment. On this simple journey on foot/bike to the stadium, you will burn calories that will make up for that delicious food and drink you will be taking in during the game. So be a team player, and tell your loved ones, ‘Take Me Out to the Ballgame’ along the Fredericksburg Trails! .Kevin Brown is the administrator of the "On the Fredericksburg Va Trails"

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April 2019

Everything Greens Holistic Learning From Farm to Family Dinner By Nicole Ziesing dinners with our youth farmers. The youth will assist these guest chefs in the entire cooking process and see all of their hard work pay off when they share their creation with their families. Additionally, the families are given recipes and gardenfresh ingredients so that they are able to replicate the dinner at home. According to Jennifer Gron, Youth Farm Program Manager, “the family dinners are my favorite component of the entire program. Pulling it all together is a lot of hard work but the youth participants glow with pride as they serve their families food that they cooked, using vegetables they grew in their garden. It makes all of the work worth it.”

Growing up, my favorite part of the week was family dinner every Sunday. To this day, sitting down with my family on our back deck eating dinner, talking about our week, and listening to an old static radio is a staple in my childhood home. It was extra special in the summer when we harvested sour berries in our backyard to eat after dinner and collectively pretended that they were the best blackberries we had ever eaten. This hour of togetherness brought my family together and prompted us to have at least one homemade healthy meal a week. Downtown Greens’ monthly Youth Farm Program Family Dinners do the same: they combine sustainability, health, community, and education into a unified front for Fredericksburg youth. The dinners bring our young farmers’ families together and promote healthy living within every home.

For seven months, from April October, the Youth Farm Program works with young farmers to plant and harvest the Upper Garden at Downtown Greens.The 3rd-5th grade farmers learn about healthy living, nutrition, nature, and sustainability. Our program also promotes gratitude, patience, goal setting, social skills, working cooperatively, and engaging with the community. Community is a core value at Downtown Greens and the Youth Farm Program embodies this value by inviting a local chef to host a family dinner each month. The dinners celebrate our young farmers and all the hard work they have put into harvesting. These guest chefs create menus featuring the Youth Farm’s monthly harvest. This year, six local chefs (from Juan More Taco, Orofino, and Mercantile, just to name a few!) will lead family

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April 2019

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Our Youth Farm Program Dinners give participants opportunities to take what they have learned throughout the summer about health, farming, and nature and apply it to their own lives. Students get to taste a variety of vegetables and learn cooking techniques

that they can bring home and share with friends and family. We hope that this experience inspires our youth to create food that promotes a healthy lifestyle and bring their family together. The Youth Farm Program is currently enrolling participants for the Summer of 2019. Our program is free of charge so children from all economic levels can join. If you have a 3rd, 4th, or 5th grader in your life and would like to sign them up for the Youth Farm Program this Summer, please contact: downtowngreens@gmail.com.

Nicole Ziesing is the Youth Farm Program Intern at Downtown Greens. Photo by Jennifer Bangoura.

What’s the Difference ? certified organic or certified naturally grown

By cecelia kirkman Good for You and the Environment! Are you looking for fresh produce that’s good for you and the environment? Then look for Certified Organic and Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) produce. In addition to healthy produce, both organic and naturally grown crops can have the added benefit of maintaining and improving soil and water quality, and conserving wetlands, woodlands, and wildlife. But what is the difference? In the U.S., “organic” is a regulated labeling term. It can only be applied to products or processes that comply with the USDA National Organic Program regulations. This government program primarily serves medium to large-scale agricultural operations. It also provides certification for businesses directly involved in food production, such as seed suppliers and food processors. USDA organic certification can be costly and burdensome, particularly for small-scale growers. Certification costs may range up to several thousand dollars.

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

Collecting the organically and locally grown FACSAP weekly harvest share The farm or business must hire a private “certifying agent” to conduct the process, and pay for all reviews and inspections at the rate determined by the certifying agent. Certified organic farms and businesses must go through an annual review and inspection process by the certifying agent to maintain the certification. In contrast, Certified Naturally Grown (certified.naturallygrown.org) is tailored for direct-market, small-scale farmers. The non-profit member organization offers an alternative certification program for farms that grow using USDA organic methods but are not a part of the USDA Certified Organic program. CNG has distinct standards for produce, apiaries, livestock, aquaponics and mushrooms. CNG does not certify related food production processes. CNG differs from the USDA National Organic Program in other ways as well. The CNG model minimizes paperwork; keeps certification dues affordable; makes standards, applications and inspection reports easily accessible on the CNG website; and depends on the active participation of certified farms. An annual inspection, conducted by peer reviewers, is required to maintain CNG certification. There is no charge to submit an application online, or for reviews or inspections. Dues range from a minimum of $150 per year and up to $300 or more per year, with the farmer determining the amount they are able to pay. Most of the Certified Organic operations in Virginia are located in the

western and southern parts of the state. Blenheim Organic Gardens (www.blenheimorganicgardens.org), Colonial Beach, is the closest Certified Organic grower of vegetables, fruits and herbs. Blenheim supplies produce for the Fredericksburg Area CSA Project (FACSAP) and operates a “buyer’s club.” Fredericksburg is fortunate to have multiple CNG producers nearby. Downtown Greens (downtowngreens.org), Green Thumb Growers and Thumbs Up Bees, and Terra Stone Greens, LLC (www.terrastoneorganics.com) are located right in the city. Cardinal Apiaries (www.cardinalapiaries.com) calls Stafford County home. Guerra Gardens is located in Manassas, and Hartland Natural Farm (hartland.edu/farm) in Rapidan. All participate in FACSAP. Additionally, bees and honey can be purchased online from Cardinal Apiaries, and microgreens and lemongrass from Terra Stone Greens, LLC. Certified Organic or Certified Naturally Grown, either choice can be good for you and the environment. Learn more about seasonal “one-stop” shopping for Certified Organic and Certified Naturally Grown vegetables, fruit, herbs and honey with Fredericksburg Area CSA Project (www.fredericksburgcsa.com). Spring and Summer CSA shares now available. Cecelia Kirkman is a volunteer with the Fredericksburg Area CSA Project (FACSAP). Providing its first organicallygrown harvest in 1997, FACSAP is Fredericksburg’s oldest Community Supported Agriculture program.

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April 2019

Derma EnVie Heidi & Michael Drummond By suzy woollam

Now that we can all FINALLY get outside and enjoy some spring weather, make sure you take a moment to stop by 600 Caroline Street and say hello to our new downtown neighbor Derma EnVie, and the owners Heidi and Michael Drummond. Heidi and Michael opened DermaEnVie a European -- inspired spa in February, offering skin care services including facials, waxing, permanent makeup and even Beard Facials for the Gentlemen. In addition to being a Master Esthetician, Heidi is also a licensed, trained and certified professional oncology skin care specialist. For those who are undergoing, or have undergone, cancer treatment including radiation and chemotherapy, these specialized services help to hydrate and protect delicate skin, and incorporate the safest products available to avoid further irritation or toxic ingredients. Each facial is customized to meet the needs of the client, and they even offer a “caregivers retreat”, a wonderful gift for the caregiver. When asked about the origin of the name, Heidi replied “we wanted to evoke a feeling of luxury, of uniqueness. Derma obviously relates to the skin, but En Vie – French for in life, evokes the thought of bringing life to your skin. But it also sounds like envy, to covet or desire. We want people to desire healthy, happy skin, skin full of life, of beauty. Our ultimate goal is to provide the opportunity for every woman to find her own natural beauty in a peaceful, luxurious environment”

April 2019

Heidi is no stranger to reaching her goals. Heidi met her husband Michael while she was in the Army stationed at Fort Carson as an Air Traffic Controller. After being honorably discharged, she was a stay-athome mom who went to school and earned her Associates degree in History. Using the remainder of her GI Bill, she enrolled in Esthetics training, and never looked back. After receiving her Masters in Esthetics in 2008, Heidi taught both basic and advanced esthetics for over 8 years before deciding to open DermaEnVie. Heidi says that their European approach to skin care is what makes them unique. “Today’s world is so fast paced, about speed and the latest machine or gadget. What is often missing is the simple experience of touch. We believe in a pure and effective hands-on approach”, something that is missing in most spa experiences today. “I love the idea of being able to help people see their own natural beauty, in providing each person with a unique, intimate, experience. European skin care is all about pampering the entire being, not just the skin. It’s about providing luxury, and giving love to each person on your table like they were your mother, grandmother or sister.” Heidi says it was an easy choice to open Downtown. “We really love the feel of downtown. Everyone has been so kind and welcoming to us since we opened, it has really made us feel like part of the Fredericksburg family”

Suzy Woollam can always be found in The Scenter of Town on Charles Street.

Derma EnVie 600 Caroline Street, Downtown FXBG (540) 479-1 1648 dermaenvie.com

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“I Have A Friend” senior sister By Laurie Black

On a lovely Friday afternoon, I tagged along with Mary Podlesny to visit her senior friend, Shirley. Shirley greeted Mary with smiles and open arms. Shirley began to tell me all about Mary, “I love Mary! She is a very special friend. She makes my day.” Shirley went on to explain, “When I get lonesome, I remember Mary will be by to visit me. Sometimes she brings me little things, but she doesn’t need to. All she has to do is bring herself.” Shirley and Mary started visiting through the Senior Visitors Program in 2017. Shirley had two previous volunteers visit her. Mary had previously visited two other seniors. However, they are glad they are together now. Shirley laughed, “Mary is not my senior visitor, she’s my senior sister.” Mary has had a long history of volunteer work, from PTAs and PTOs in local schools to volunteer work at St. Mary's. She has had 25 years of experience working with local nonprofits including the George Washington Foundation and Smart Beginnings Rappahannock Area. She has worked for the University of Mary Washington as Budget Director and currently for Featherstone CPA. Several years ago, a mutual friend connected Mary Mental Health America of with Fredericksburg's Executive Director, Rita Girard. Mary volunteered her time and financial talents to assist Rita with budgeting, accounting and hiring a Finance Manager. It was during this time that Mary heard about the Senior Visitors Program and decided to join as a volunteer. I asked Mary, who is also now the Treasurer on Mental Health America of Fredericksburg's Board of Directors, what if anything has surprised her about volunteering for the Senior Visitors Program. Mary replied, "In our busy lives we don't find the time, we have to make the time to volunteer. [Senior Visitors]

doesn't feel like a commitment. With Shirley, it is not a burden. She is my friend. She brings me such joy, more than I could ever bring her. I love her sense of humor, her quick wit." After some friendly arguing about who brings who the most joy, Shirley told me how important it is to be able to laugh, “There’s no sense in not laughing. You just have to laugh. If I had one wish it would not to be younger or live longer, it would be to have my eyes back so I can see my friends.” Shirley and Mary both shared how they simply enjoy talking with one another. However, they have had a few adventures going out to lunch and attending annual Senior Visitors Program gatherings. “Shirley especially loved the holiday party where we had a sing-a-long,” said Mary. “She loves to sing and loves music.” “Yes, I do,” said Shirley with a huge smile. “Mary also introduced me to Carl’s Ice Cream.” As we were getting ready to leave, Shirley’s personal care aide, Maria, shared her thoughts. “I really see the benefits of this program. Shirley always talks about Mary. I would like to encourage other care aides and families to refer their seniors to this program. You can just feel the special bond they have. Shirley really does think of Mary as her sister.” Shirley quickly responded, “Don’t advertise too much! I’m not sharing my Mary.” We left the way we came, with smiles and hugs.

Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One

Jewell Wolterman 12225 Amos Lane, Ste 204 Fredericksburg, VA 22407 540-907-0574 www.elitetitleva.com jwolterman@elitetitleva.com Large or Small, I Sell Them All! Dreaming of Fabulous City Living? Let’s Make It Happen!

Laurie Black is the Administrative Assistant for the Senior Visitors Program To learn more, call the Senior Visitors Program at (540) 371-2 2704 or visit our website at mhafred.org. Refer a senior or sign up to be a volunteer! The Senior Visitors Program is a free community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg.

SUZY STONE Mobile:540.847.0630 Office: 540-898-2900 suzystone22@gmail.com C21redwood.com front porch fredericksburg

April 2019

Tasty Sandwiches & Late-N Night Bites Ike’s Signature Sandwich Shop By mary lynn powers becoming a local favorite. The Rita BLT which incidentally was raved about in one of the reviews is named after his grandmother. Matthew has about twenty years experience working in restaurants doing a variety of positions. He most recently bartended at Fahrenheit 132, and over the years has been a part of nine restaurant openings. He comes from Philadelphia, but has been a local for the last three years. His girlfriend, Bethany is also in the restaurant game, though does not work with him. On the

Fredericksburg abounds with good restaurants. It is baffling how so many can exist in such a small area, but somehow many make the cut and exist for years. A new favorite opened up in the small space below the butcher shop on Charles Street called Ike’s. As the title implies, sandwiches are their thing, and they have gotten some utterly positive feedback on their creations. They have been open for about nine months, and the struggle was real, as it always is with a new eatery. Matthew McHale (above), owner said they seem to have made it over the hump, with a lot of support from the local community. Matthew talked to me about the shop, his experience in the business and a legacy of hard working people that he looks up to. The shop is named for his grandfather who after serving in the Marines acquired land in Washington state where he farmed for the next fifty years. His mother helps in the shop, baking desserts. She makes a whoopie pie that is

weekends, Ike’s stays open until 3 am, which can make it tricky if you have a family. Being with someone in the industry allows for some understanding of this factor. There are only a few places where you can get food at that hour, and their menu is off the charts delicious, if you can eat at that hour! Ike’s has partnered with the Olde Towne Butcher Shop, so the quality of meats is a step above. Much of the meats are locally sourced. The BLT is made with Nueske’s Bacon which is apple smoked and

delicious. I love a good Philly steak, and this one does not disappoint. The cozy little shop esteems to be a scratch kitchen, which means making all their own sauces, side dishes and desserts. They do their own sausages and a fun cheese whiz. Another special was a Lobster Roll which I look forward to trying when it comes back. They had a burger special which was so popular, they just decided to keep it as a regular menu item. Ike’s is located at 1000 Charles Street. If you come down William St and see the Butcher shop, the entrance is directly around the corner underneath the butcher shop. Though small in size, the restaurant carries a big punch, and I see

this young group of hard working entrepreneurs becoming key players in the vibrant restaurant community of Fredericksburg.

Mary Lynn enjoys meeting and writing about interesting people in the 'burg for Front Porch

Ike’s Signature Sandwiches 1000 Charles St, Downtown 540-3 370-4 4106; facebook.com/ikesfxbg ikes-ssignature-ssandwiches.business.site Constantly changing most of the menu

Spring and Summer CSA shares now available

www.fredericksburgcsa.com 12

April 2019

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www.donatelifevirginia.org

Season’s Bounty

Fredericksburg’s Hometown Irish Pub & Restaurant Since 1961

April = asparagaus vanessa moncure

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

200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738 When you begin to see asparagus at the Farmer’s Market, that’s a reliable harbinger of Spring. Asparagus, a member

The Sunken Well Tavern

of the Lily family, can be green, white or purple, although the green is most commonly available. White asparagus is, literally, asparagus never having seen the light of day. Grown underground, the spears are covered in mounded earth - this technique avoids exposure to light and thus they don't produce chlorophyll which is what turns them green. Also, unlike its green counterpart, white asparagus has a tough, bitter peel which must be removed with a small sharp knife or vegetable peeler before cooking. Their flavor is more delicate, and in areas of Europe, like Germany, the “spargel” is celebrated in spring festivals. If you're interested in growing your own asparagus, the plants are sold as three-year plants, roots and crowns. Popular American varieties are the Jersey Giant, Jersey Knight, Supreme and Heirloom and are best grown in loamy, sandy, lighter soil which drains quickly, unlike our area’s clay-rich soil. Standing water will quickly rot the roots, so a properly prepared raised bed, with roots planted in deep furrows, should produce

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

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

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

11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm

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

this prized vegetable for up to twenty years. The asparagus is one of few perennial garden vegetables, rhubarb being another. As tempting as it may look, don't eat those tender green shoots without cooking, as they are somewhat toxic to humans. Their bright red fruit is very toxic, so just go for cooked green shoots. And rhubarb leaves, raw or cooked, are high in oxalic acid which can cause kidney failure. Avoid the leaves and enjoy that spring strawberry-rhubarb pie! ASPARAGUS VICHYSSOISE SOUP Cold soups are very refreshing in the spring and summer. This is a twist on the traditional leek and potato vichyssoise recipe and is best prepared the day before serving. Melt 4 T. butter in heavy pan over medium low heat. Add 4 large chopped leeks, white part only and thoroughly washed, and one chopped small onion or one-half cup chopped shallots. Sauté slowly about 15 minutes or until soft and golden. Add water by the teaspoonful if onions ever begin to stick. Stir in 4-5 cups peeled and thinly sliced potatoes (Yukon gold adds creaminess to the finished soup) one-half pound trimmed asparagus (weighed after trimming) and 3-4 cups chicken stock. Simmer for about thirty minutes, then let cool before processing it to a coarse pureé. Add one and one-half cups milk and two cups heavy cream. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper and heat to a simmer. Refrigerate covered at least eight hours or overnight. Stir in two teaspoons of lemon juice to brighten the flavor, ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh-snipped chives. ASPARAGUS EGG SALAD If you find yourself with plenty of leftover hard-boiled eggs from your Easter baskets, try this spring-y version of egg salad. You may find yourself preparing it year-round. Trim the woody ends of asparagus. Place the asparagus covered with cold water in a saucepan - cook over the highest heat until the water just begins to boil. For very thin spears, this should be enough to cook them - for

thicker spears, boil about one minute. They should still be crisp-tender, not soft or mushy (save those for soup). Submerge them in an ice water bath to stop the cooking and retain the bright green color. Drain and dry each spear. For this recipe you'll need about one cup sliced. Peel and quarter eight hard boiled eggs. Place in mixing bowl with one-third cup sliced green onion, one cup cooked and sliced asparagus and ¼ cup chopped fresh (must be) dill. In another bowl, mix together one-half cup mayonnaise (I use Hellman’s. Don't use salad dressing!), one quarter-cup sour cream and one tablespoon Dijon mustard or whole grain. Pour the dressing over the eggs and fold together gently, seasoning with salt and fresh-ground pepper to taste. Serve immediately over tender lettuce or mixed greens. Left over, the onions will overpower the salad. For sandwiches, just leave out the asparagus. ASPARAGUS QUICHE Preheat oven to 350F. Grease a scalloped-edge quiche pan (or deep 9” pan) and line with pie crust dough. Spread one and one half-cups trimmed, blanched and chopped asparagus over the bottom along with two tablespoons snipped chives. Cover with two cups freshly shredded Swiss cheese, or a combination of Swiss and Gruyere. Mix together one cup heavy cream, one-half cup half and half, one-half teaspoon salt (or less) and one-quarter teaspoon white pepper with six well-beaten eggs. Pour over the cheese, then sprinkle the top with snipped chives. Bake 50-60 minutes (depending on the depth of the pan) or until it rises, is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If you have any left over, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. Happy Spring to everyone! Vanessa seves up yummy recipes for all seasons

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April 2019

Cooking With Kyle candied pecans by james kyle snyder

Sometimes you just want something sweet. I am no confectioner, for sure, but when we had a chance to make a dinner for our friends The Bell’s, Stephanie asked if I would make one of Hal’s favorites; crème brûlée and candied pecans, I chuckled and said “of course.” I have been a long-standing fan of candied nuts – spicy walnuts – peanut brittle – chocolate covered almond pralines to name a few favorites. Of all of them, the candied pecans is probably the easiest. The grocery list is short: 1 c white sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1 tsp of salt, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, ¼ tsp white pepper, 1 egg white (good thing I was making the crème brûlée – plenty of egg whites left over from that), 1 TBS water, and 1-pound pecan halves. Make sure you get good fresh pecan halves and not stale broken pieces. It makes a difference. The process is simple – so simple this is a good one to do with the kids: Preheat the oven to 250 degrees. If you are cooking more in the oven that day, these are a good way to open the kitchen. You heat the oven and get a tasty treat to snack on for the rest of the session. Blend the sugar, cinnamon and salt together in a bowl. Hal likes a little heat so I added the peppers. If you are not a heat fan, leave them out. Whisk the egg white and water together until frothy. I use a whisk, and not a fork, for this step. It is important to get them FROTHY. As the water goes away in the oven, the egg white acts as the binder to hold the sugar to the nuts. Carefully toss the pecans in the egg white mixture until all parts are completely coated. Don’t break the pecans. This usually takes a minute to ensure all the

April 2019

crevasses are thoroughly coated. Move the pecans to the bowl with the sugar mixture. With a clean spoon or spatula, gently fold the pecans through the sweet goodness until they are completely entrenched. Spread them evenly on a cookie sheet and put them in the oven. Every 15 minutes, pull them out and stir gently, rotating them so that all sides can toast ever-so slightly until one hour is reached or they are toasted enough for your taste. Cool and eat! When the guests arrived, Hal had no idea he was getting a treat. I warmed some of the pecans and put them on a fancy plate near where we were preparing the rest of the feast. It was a night for cheese crack (roasted garlic infused crème cheese on toast points); roasted bone marrow with shallot, parsley, lemon salt, on my – very first successful – homemade sourdough bread (Thanks Phillip for the tip on starting the mother!!); butternut squash curry with chicken, peas, carrots, green beans, and corn served over black rice; and finally the crème brûlée with candied pecans tucked in the edges of the bowl cradling the crème. The pecans served three purposes that night: appetizer, desert, and doing something nice for a great guy! These are so easy, I doubled the recipe so I could send Hal with some and still have a quart left over. When you need an easy gift for a foodie with a sweet tooth, this recipe can easily fill the bill. Maybe next time we can talk about the roasted bone marrow? Who knows … As always, simple, easy, and delicious. Be well! Kyle treats us to simple, easy & delicious recipes each month in this space.

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Easter Brunch Buffet Sunday, April 21, 10am ~ 2pm

$26.95 per adult; $12 ages 5~12; Under 4 FREE Call for Reservations 540-373-8300 ~ www.marriott.com/fkrcy 620 Caroline St. FXBG, VA

C L THE HAPPY M The Only Thing We “Overlook” is the Rappahannock! Monday ~ Saturday: 11am ~ 9pm Sunday: 12-8pm 1017 Sophia Street

540-899-0140 (ph)

540-899-0141 (fax)

Rand Sompayrac & Richard Moncure, Proprietors

Become a Member

fxbgfoodcoop@gmail.com fredericksburgfoodcoop.com

Vino Frappato by City Vino

Olde Towne BUTCHER Corner of William & Charles Streets Downtown Fredericksburg 540.370.4105 www.oldetownebutcher.com Monday to Thursday, 10am to 7pm; Friday 10am to 8 pm Saturday 9am to 8pm, Sunday, 11am to 6pm Keith Lebor Proprietor Italy is the world's largest producer of wine, representing about a quarter of the world's production. According to Italy's Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MIPAAF), there are 350 grapes that have been granted an authorized status plus at least an additional 500 documented, but not officially authorized local varieties. One of these documented grapes is the ancient Sicilian grape variety called "Frappato." Frappato is a red grape that is planted predominately on the southeastern coast of the island of Sicily, in the town and commune of Vittoria. The grape grows well in Sicily's warm temperatures and dry climate. The grapes are medium-sized and grow in pyramid-shape clusters. Yields from the vines tend to be low, as they are not vigorous vines. These grapes need careful pruning and watchful vineyard management. DNA testing performed in 2008 in Italy determined that Frappato has a close genetic relationship to Sangiovese. It is likely that Frappato is a crossing of Sangiovese-of Chianti fame-and a yetunidentified grape variety. Wines made from Frappato are usually dry, and are light- to mediumbodied with a low to medium level of tannins and medium acidity. They are cherry-colored with aromas and flavors of cherries, strawberries, blueberries, rose petals, violets, white pepper, clove, and sage. Due to its lighter level of tannins, Frappato can be served with a light chill. Frappato has historically been blended with the Nero d'Avola grape in the region's Cerasulolo de Vittoria wines. In these

wines, he Frappato balances the boldness of the Nero d'Avola. Lately, winemakers are recognizing the distinctive characteristics of the Frappato grape and single varietal wines are being produced. Join us for our Weekly Wine Tasting Saturdays.

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

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April 2019

CALEND april 2019â&#x20AC;Ś National Poetry Month Monday, April 1 April Fools Day

Open Mic, Red Dragon Brewry, 6-8p provided 1419 Princess Anne St

Equipment

Tuesday, April 2

National Peanut Butter & Jelly Day Red Dragon Brewery Beer & Trivia night 1419 Pr.Anne St. 6:30-8:30p "Gehrig & Ripken" William B. Crawley Great Lives Lecture Series free 7:30 p.m. in Dodd Auditorium in George Washington Hall

Wednesday, April 3

Food Co-op Happy Hour. Info on the Food Co-op and a chocolate contest. Everyone is welcome. 6-8 pm, Adventure Brewing, 33 Perchwood Dr Unit 101, . fredericksburgfoodcoop.com Sunken Well Trivia tonight starting at 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage, Open Mic at the Rec Center 8 pm . 213 William St.

Thursday, April 4

Washington Heritage Museums Speaker's Series, Scott Walker, retired educator and local historian. "When in the Course of Women's Events: A Brief Look at the Feminine Side of Fredericksburg Area History."CRRL FXBG Branch at 10am Sunken Well Ladies Night 720 Littlepage, Ladies drink specials & $5 micro menu Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar. "Last of the Romanovs" William B. Crawley Great Lives Lecture Series free 7:30 p.m. in Dodd Auditorium in George Washington Hall

Fredericksburg Photography Club welcomes new members. Meetings 7pm Dorothy Hart Center.

"Portholes", exhibit by feature artist Cathy Herndon. Art First Gallery, 824 Caroline st

Red Dragon Brewery Beer & Trivia night . 1419 Pr.Anne St. 6:30-8:30p

Artful Dimensions Gallery, Dimensional Expressions 6th Annual Juried Exhibition. Juror's Talk and Awards 6p. Exhibit from April 2-29, 2019 at 922 Caroline Street.artfuldimensions@verizon.net artfuldimensions.com

"POW Wives" William B. Crawley Great Lives Lecture Series free Programs begin at 7:30 p.m. in Dodd Auditorium in George Washington Hall

Saturday, April 6

Community Art Series, Meet the Artists @Community Bank of the Chesapeake 2-5pm, Kim Richards, Kathleen Mullins, Collette Caprara opening

Rising Sun Tavern's "Punch of the Past", Ever wanted a taste of George Washington's favorite punch recipe? Join us for an evening of tastings and talks on famous 18th century punch recipes. did you know punch & Taverns played a significant role in early elections? Admission 21+Tkts www.WashingtonHeritageMuseums.org

Thursday, April 11

Sunday, April 7

Sunken Well Brunch from 9am-2pm, $5 Bloody Marys and Mimosas. Bluegrass night from 7-9pm. Usually a good idea to reserve a table! Ebenezer Church Hosts Color Eggstravaganza enjoy Egg Hunts for the kids, a Moon Bounce, Book Fair, Games and Prizes, a Color Dash for all ages and plenty of snacks! It's all free. 2-4p. 161 Embrey Mill Rd, Stafford, Join us for 50's Sock Hop. Reminisce to the music of the 50's & 60's. with The Acoustic Onions Falmouth Volunteer Fire Dept, 250 Butler Rd, presented by ArtsLive, 2-5p

Monday, April 8

Open Mic, Red Dragon Brewry, 6-8p provided 1419 Princess Anne St

Equipment

"League of Earth's Angels - Meeting Howell Library Room #3. FXBG women's circle branch of the Global Sisterhood. FB page or our webpage at: https://520727.wixsite.com/leagueofearthsangels for more info. All women are welcome!"

540~479~4116 1013 Princess Anne St , FXBG April 2019

Sunken Well Trivia tonight starting at 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage, Open Mic at the Rec Center 8 pm .Scott Wagner hosts 213 William St.

Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer

Wednesday, April 10

City Vino Wine Tasting Sample featured wines of the week. 12-4p The Shoppes @810

Tuesday, April 9

First Friday, April 5

Penny Parrish, "Idyllic Italy", Reception,Brush Stokes Gallery.

Art for Park, skateboard art exhibit opening reception, PONSHOP, 712 Caroline St, 6-9pm.

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Join Women & Girls Fund members for our spring event 1000 WOMEN UMW Chandler Ballroom celebrating the 2019 grant recipients). Kyra Oliver, author of 8 Ways of Being, will share her journey and hard-earned tactics that can encourage us all to develop a positive mindset for living life with confidence. 6-9p Sunken Well Ladies Night 720 Littlepage, Ladies drink specials & $5 micro menu Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar.

Friday, April 12

Osprey Festival Colonial Beach, VA atop VA Northern Neck. 3 Days of nature tours, art, exhibits, food, music, kids activities, ospreys and birds galore! events take place throughout the community & at nearby state parks. info see www.downtowncolonialbeach.org. thru April 14

FXBG Concert Band 2 performance of the co Cradle of Freedom: An retired UMW Associate Naylor. 7p Jam fredericksburgconcertba

Artist Reception and B Burroughs 1-3:30pm, FC

Gardening Day. Hands-o flowers and spices while its vegetable and butterf Date, April 20, CRRL How

Master Gardeners 7th Garden" symposium "'W a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Geri M

Riverside Writers Celeb Salem Church Library 2 riversidewriters.com Fre

Sunday, April 14

Sunken Well Brunch fr Marys and Mimosas. Blu Usually a good idea to r

Fredericksburg Singers s World - Poetry in Song compositions. 7 p.m. FXB

FIBF Presents Non-fiction Bair & Neil Hamblin, Re

Monday, April 15 Open Mic, Red Dragon provided 1419 Princess

Tuesday, April 16

Jon Wiley Duo @ La Petite.311 William St Live music, 8-11p

Red Dragon Brewery Be Pr.Anne St. 6:30-8:30p

Saturday, April 13

Wednesday, April

City Vino Wine Tasting Sample featured wines of the week. 12-4p The Shoppes @810

Sunken Well Trivia ton 720 Littlepage,

Dog Easter Egg Hunt, Memorial/Kenmore Park, 1pm Come dressed to enter our doggie costume contest Dogs must be at least 12 weeks old. A small dog area will also be available for dogs under For www.FredParksRec.com

Open Mic at the Rec Ce hosts 213 William St.

Thursday, April 18

Sunken Well Ladies Nigh drink specials & $5 micr

DAR of events

0th Anniv Gala, premier mmissioned piece "In the n Anniversary Fanfare" by Professor of Music Craig mes Monroe HS, and.org

Book Signing with Helen CCA 813 Sophia Street

on learning about growing e helping the library plant fly gardens. 9 - noon, Rain well Branch, 806 Lyons Bvd

h annual "Living in the Wild About Natives"' 8:30 Melchers Home & Studio

ration of Poetry 1-4 PM 2607 Salem Church Road, ee

Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar.

City Vino Wine Tasting Sample featured wines of the week. 12-4p The Shoppes @810

Friday, April 19

Friday, April 26

Meet author Tim O'Brien Reception, Presentation, question & answer session, book signing, . Dodd Auditorium, UMW, 3-5pm

Passover begins

The Acoustic Onion@ La Petite.311 William St Live music, 8-11p

Saturday, April 20

Go Far, Go Together Co-op 5K Walk/Run. All ages beautiful Rappahannock Heritage Trail. Register at creativecolorva.com/page/go-far-5k 9 am, Rain or Shine, Old Mill Park Shelter #1, 2201 Caroline St, Fredericksburg. fredericksburgfoodcoop.com City Vino Wine Tasting Sample featured wines of the week. 12-4p The Shoppes @810

Sunday, April 21 Easter

rom 9am-2pm, $5 Bloody uegrass night from 7-9pm. eserve a table!

special concert I Dream A g poetry set to musical BG Baptist Church.

n & Historical Fiction April ed Dragon Brewery 4-6 p.m

Monday, Aprill 22 Earth Day

Open Mic, Red Dragon Brewry, 6-8p provided 1419 Princess Anne St

Equipment

Tuesday, April 23

Red Dragon Brewery Beer & Trivia night . 1419 Pr.Anne St. 6:30-8:30p

Wednesday, April 24 Brewry, 6-8p Anne St

Equipment

eer & Trivia night

1419

l 17

night starting at 7:45pm,

enter 8 pm .Scott Wagner

ht 720 Littlepage, Ladies ro menu

Eating for the Earth. Learn about plant-based cooking with a live demonstration, followed by a vegan potluck. Bring a dish to share or make a contribution to The Table. 5:30-7:30 pm, St. George's Episcopal Church, 905 Princess Anne St, Fredericksburg.fredericksburgfoodcoop.com Sunken Well Trivia tonight starting at 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage, Open Mic at the Rec Center 8 pm .Scott Wagner hosts 213 William St.

Thursday, April 25

Sunken Well Ladies Night 720 Littlepage, Ladies drink specials & $5 micro menu

VA High School League State Theatre Champions 'The Stafford Players' Present 'Peter and the Starcatcher' at Stafford High School, The Adventures of an Orphan who Becomes Peter Pan (the Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up) Stafford High School at 63 Stafford Indians Lane, 7pm

Saturday April 27 Garden Week

Artful Dimensions Gallery Artist Yard Sale Shop for local art, supplies, books and more at yard sale prices! 10-2pm, 922 Caroline Street Meditation Opportunity: Day-long Silent Retreat, 9 am - 4 pm. Presented by Insight Meditation Community of Fredericksburg. Slow down and find your to find yourself in the natural presence of life, moment by moment. Suitable for those new to meditation as well as experienced meditators. Free or up to $55 contribution. 25 Chalice Circle, Fredericksburg VA 22405. more information at meditatefred.com. 'The Stafford Players' Present 'Peter and the Starcatcher' at Stafford High School, The Adventures of an Orphan who Becomes Peter Pan (the Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up) Stafford High School at 63 Stafford Indians Lane, 2 & 7pm Annual Senior Citizen Prom, North Staford H.S., 839 Garrisonville rd, Stafford. FREE. Senior citizens in our community are invited to attend the prom. Event will feature our NSHSl Jazz Band. Door prizes will be given throughout the afternoon. 3-6pm RSVP 540-227-4088 16th annual Earth Day Fest along the beautiful Rappahannock River! dozens of environmental exhibitors, live music, great food, birds of prey, hands-on activities, and so much more for the entire family! Come learn what you can do to reduce your impact on the planet while having great, FREE, fun. Bring your own water bottle for re-fills! Old Mill Park, 11a-4p. Info : www.earthdayfred.com

Washington Heritage Museums Annual Plant Sale, Mary Washington House. 9-Noon. sale features dozens of varieties of perennials including varieties from the gardens of the Washington Heritage Museums. All proceeds directly benefit the gardens. The gardens of Mary Washington House will be open and free to the public during regular museum hours throughout Garden Week. Our Colonial Revival garden peaks this time of year with tulips, iris and native columbine.

Sunday, April 28

Sunken Well Brunch from 9am-2pm, $5 Bloody Marys and Mimosas. Bluegrass night from 7-9pm. Usually a good idea to reserve a table!

Monday, April 29

St James House Spring Opening. 1300 Charles St. in Fredericksburg, Va., is open to the public for tours only two weeks a year; a week in the spring and a week in the fall. Visitors can tour the St. James' House during its spring opening to see its beautiful collection of antiques and decorative arts. Admission is $5 per person, free for members. Open Mic, Red Dragon Brewry, 6-8p provided 1419 Princess Anne St

Equipment

Tuesday, April 30

Red Dragon Brewery Beer & Trivia night .1419 Pr.Anne St. 6:30-8:30p

If you are reading this 261st issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 22nd year of continuous publication! If you are an advertiser, list your events. Deadline for May 2019 issue is April 20th. To submit events go to frontporchfredericksburg.com/submit

3424 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join

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April 2019

history’s stories

USS CHANCELLORSVILLE By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks

I was recently reminded by Eddie Vernon my A c u p u n c t u r e Therapist, that I was a Plank holder of the USS Chancellorsville a guided missile cruiser that was Commissioned in November 1989. Eddie who is from Spotsylvania graduated from the United States Naval Academy and served several years in the Navy. He became interested in Acupuncture while in the Navy and became licensed and opened his successful business here in Fredericksburg after his tour was completed, I highly recommend his services. I had the honor of being appointed to the Virginia Committee along with several other area citizens prior to the construction and commissioning of the Chancellorsville. Joe Wilson a local businessman was Chairman of the Committee, Lawrence Davies, Bill Howell, John Chichester, Mary McDaniel, Larry Silver and Layton Fairchild, Jr. were just a few of the local members that served with me. We all received a “Plank” when the ship was finally completed for our services on the committee... The plank is an oak board which is four inches wide by twelve inches in length with a plaque that has a rendition of the ship engraved along with the committee members name as Plank Owner engraved upon the board. November 2019 will be thirty years since the Chancellorsville was Commissioned. She was first deployed in March 1991 in support of Operation Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf. In June 1993 the Chancellorsville launched strikes with nine Tomahawk missiles on the Iraqi Intelligence Center in Baghdad. In 1995 the ship was awarded the Spokane Trophy for the most proficient in overall combat systems readiness and warfare operations. In 1998 the homeport was changed from San Diego to Yokosuka, Japan, where in April 1999 she was deployed to the Persian Gulf. In July 2002 the Chancellorsville was in Vladivostok, Russia and celebrated Independence Day in Russia along with the Fort McHenry. In August 2006 the Chancellorsville again became the ship of homeport San Diego. The ship has a crew of 340 enlisted with an additional 33 officers. In March 2011 the ship along with the carrier Ronald Reagan assisted with relief efforts after the earthquake and tsunami. Over forty tons of relief supplies were delivered to the hardest hit areas in Japan. The ship received a Humanitarian Service Medal for this service In 2012 the Chancellorsville underwent equipment upgrades as part of the Aegis Modernization. The men and women in uniform proudly represent the United States of America on a ship named after a local Civil War Battle. The ship has received the Kuwait Liberation Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal (2), Southwest Asia Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Sea Service Ribbon (6), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Battle Effectiveness Award with E device (8), Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation along with the Spokane Trophy Award (2). Today the USS Chancellorsville patrols the seas always in harms way in defense of our freedoms that we enjoy, and many times take for granted. God bless the crew of the USS Chancellorsville CG 62 and keep them safe. In Memory:Norman Brooks, Dr. Baldwin Harrington, Allen Richey, & Jean Sniffen Tuffy is the Front Porch resident FXBG historian

April 2019

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OUR HERITAGE

A look at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center collection

virginia protective force By John reifenberg

An eclectic collection of documents and photographs recently came through The Heritage Center’s doors. Among the items contained in the trove, sequestered deep in the recesses of an old banana box was a single small image, an unidentified photograph perhaps 2” x 3”. It depicts a group of men of various ages, standing in formation in a large room. Almost all are wearing suit and tie, right hands raised, facing a uniformed individual with head bent, apparently reading from a card. On the photos reverse is scrawled a date, 3/13/1941. As with any interesting photo devoid of most information, our immediate thoughts ran from; who are they; where are they; and what are they doing? We looked closer. There are two basketball hoops quite visible to the naked eye. We began expostulating on the possibilities. A further, probing examination with a magnifying glass revealed another exciting clue. On the back wall can be seen a scoreboard with the letters; “JMHS” with “Visitors” underneath. The J and the M are superposed over one another. We suspected this was the same gymnasium that houses The Heritage Center today. To be sure, we counted and compared bricks, looked at radiator locations, (since removed, with the mounting holes still visible), ceiling lights, and the concrete ceiling supports, along with other hard features. From the participant’s style of clothing and the physical features of the building, we knew were looking at JM’s gym in the early 1940’s. The date was a godsend as far as being able to further unravel the mystery. The Heritage Center holds, in bound

volume form, every Free Lance-Star newspaper from January 1933 to December 1969. Using the date provided, we searched the volumes, finding the picture with an article. These were men being sworn in to The Virginia Protective Force on March 13, 1941. The VPF was formed from an all-volunteer group of area men, some too old or too young for the draft, some not called due to various other reasons. A paragraph states; “Purpose of the company is to provide a force of trained men to render protective service in an emergency during the absence of the National Guard on active duty.” Their responsibilities included guarding the Falmouth Bridge, beginning December 12, 1941. At that time Rt. 1 was a major north/south route along the east coast. (Incidentally, The Heritage Center archives some photographs of VPF volunteer C. J. Pappandreou in uniform and with weapon, guarding the bridge); another duty was standing guard at the armory, which doubled as quarters for some of the men, or plane spotting from various rooftops. Looking through our database, we found numerous articles in the FL-S papers outlining other VPF activities. There are company rosters and lists of officers for the company, one being Captain Josiah P. Rowe, Jr. In all, there are about 20 articles found at the Center describing the VPF and their activities. There is so much more.

John Reifenberg Retired from the National Park Service after 31 years of service. He has been volunteering at the Center since the fall of 2011.

Local Preservation Group Saves Battlefields THE CENTRAL VIRGINIA BATTLEFIELDS TRUST, INC. BY PAUL T. SCOTT

Upon the opening of hostilities after the bombardment of Fort Sumter in 1861, war would come to the quiet cities and towns of the South. When President Lincoln called for states to contribute troops to put down the rebellion, Southern state after state would leave the union. This would include Virginia, which seceded on April 17, 1861. Unpredictable to either side was the terrible loss in human lives and property which would befall both. In fact, over 750,000 troops would battle in the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania area causing 100,000 casualties in a mere 18-m month period. This would leave our region decimated for years to come. Being halfway between the capitals of the North and South, Washington, DC, and Richmond, Virginia, naturally military attention was drawn here, and the warring armies would battle each other four major times between 1862 and 1864. The names of FREDERICKSBURG, CHANCELLORSVILLE, WILDERNESS and SPOTSYLVANIA COURTHOUSE would go down in history.

For the same reason the armies met here 155 years ago, proximity to two major capitals, attention is continually drawn to this area. With being only some fifty some miles to Washington, DC, and the hub of activity there, pressure in the form of housing and commercial development has reached heretofore relatively untouched areas of the battlefields. Recognizing the inevitability of development and the loss of precious, hallowed ground, a small group of community leaders met on September 4, 1996, to seriously discuss preservation. The Central Virginia Battlefields Trust (CVBT) was formed and, thereafter, received its official non-profit 501(c)3 status necessary to begin raising funds. The board of directors currently meets once a month, is a working board and numbers fifteen talented people â&#x20AC;&#x201C; authors, educators, businessmen and professionals. All are volunteers and donate their time,

energy and funds toward the mission, to preserve land associated with the four major campaigns: Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness and Spotsylvania. Its first acquisition was of the Montfort Academy site atop Marye's Heights, where the Confederate artillery was placed during the 1862 Battle of Fredericksburg. The college had sought to turn this area into a parking lot. One of the goals of CVBT, if possible, is to purchase property within the National Military Park boundaries which the government has not yet acquired. CVBT can acquire property at a negotiated price without the necessity of red tape involved with a government purchase. This particular parcel was purchased and, thereafter, transferred to the National Park Service to improve the ability to tell the story of the battle at Fredericksburg. Truly a success story! With the continued threat of development, CVBT set its sights on more endangered battlefield land. It then bought over 100 acres on the south side of Route 3 (Plank Road) just east of the Chancellorsville intersection where Lafayette McLaws' confederate division fought. Then, a 12-acre tract was purchased directly across Route 3 from The Wedge. Without generous bequests from the estates of Ralph Happel, a retired local National Park Historian, and Brian Pohanka, a Civil War author, historian and preservationist, as well as other preservation groups, CVBT would not have been able to maintain its acquisitions. Between 2009 and 2013, CVBT purchased 15.0 acres around the crucial Wilderness intersection, near where modern Routes 3 and 20 meet. In 1864, this land saw the drama of the opening of the Battle of the Wilderness. During this period, eleven tracts were saved just outside the

entrance to Spotsylvania Battlefield on Brock Road west of Chancellorsville where Stonewall Jackson's epic flank march struck on May 2, 1863. Just last year, a 73.3-acre tract on the Spotsylvania Courthouse Battlefield known as Myer's Hill was acquired. By the end of 2018, CVBT had saved outright, or participated in protecting, over 1,300 acres of these four main battlefields in the Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania and Orange County area. One may ask, with this success and so much land preserved, why save anymore? When we look at the acreage of the entire conflict in this area, what has been saved pales in comparison. For instance, only 14 % of land has been preserved for the public out of the entire core battlefield acreage of 21,872 in Chancellorsville, Spotsylvania and Wilderness alone. The pace of development here, including roads, blacktop, concrete, shopping centers, and housing, has exceeded all expectations. These acres, once preserved, will, at some point, be some of the few green spaces left for the public to enjoy. The intent is to ultimately return these sites to their wartime appearance and provide access to the public for its enjoyment and historical interpretation for posterity. The battle to save more hallowed ground from the blade of the bulldozer continues. Please consider becoming an active partner and donate by contacting CVBT at P. O. Box 3417, Fredericksburg, VA 22402; (540) 374-0900, or visit the website at www.cvbt.org or email at execdirector@cvbt.org.

Paul T. Scott is a Board of Directors CVBT

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April 2019

Senior Care knock on the door By Karl Karch

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Toby Keith was playing golf with Clint Eastwood at a charity tournament when Clint said he was turning 88 in a couple of days and was starting work on his new movie The Mule. Toby asked: “What keeps you going?” Clint replied: “I just get up every morning and go out and I don’t let the old man in.” Inspired by this simple phrase and Clint’s energy, Toby wrote the song “Don’t Let the Old Man In” for Clint who incorporated it into the movie The Mule. The song sends a powerful message about life and aging. Toby sings: “I knew all of my life that someday it would end. Get up and go outside, don’t let the old man in.” Don’t give up and don’t give in to the aches, pains, and negative age-related stereotypes.

conducted by the Pew Research Center, the older people become, the younger they feel and the more likely they are to see “old age” as a time occurring later in life. Most adults over 50 feel at least 10 years younger than their actual age. One third of those between 65 and 74 said they felt 10-19 years younger. And, onesixth of people 75 and older said they felt 20 years younger. This study lends credence to the saying “you’re only as old as you think you are”. Feeling old is a state of mind more than a state of body. How you interpret your own aging is up to you. You can choose to have a positive attitude about growing older or a negative one. Research found that older adults whose view of aging is primarily positive live 7.5 years longer.

Becca Levy, PhD, assistant professor of public health at Yale University found that older adults with more positive self-perceptions of aging lived 7.5 years longer than those with negative self-perceptions of aging. She also found that older adults exposed to positive stereotypes have significantly better memory and balance, whereas negative self-perceptions contributed to worse memory and feelings of worthlessness. Surprisingly, some studies found that older adults can inoculate themselves from internalizing negative stereotypes by not identifying with the category “elderly”. Because they feel younger than their age or more mentally active, these ageist stereotypes don’t apply to them. Not letting the old man in may have been Clint Eastwood’s way of inoculating himself from old age.

Forget about how old you are in years. Instead, consider how old you feel or think you are. As Toby Keith sings in his song: “Ask yourself how old would you be if you didn’t know the day you were born?” Toby’s song also has these other thought-provoking stanzas: “can’t leave it up to him, he’s knocking on my door” and “look out your window and smile, don’t let the old man in.” So, when the old man comes knocking on your door, remember these powerful words in Toby’s song and don’t let him in.

There’s truth in the saying you’re only as old as you feel or think you are. Research studies found that the older we are in years, the younger we feel. According to a national survey on aging

April 2019

Karl Karch is a Gerontologist and local franchise owner of Home Instead Senior Care, a licensed home care organization providing personal care, companionship and home helper services in the Fredericksburg and Culpeper region.

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It’s All Energy stay grounded to stay healthy by christina ferber

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We live in a day and age where it is easy to feel disconnected from others, the earth, and even from ourselves. With technology all around and a breaking news story every day, our resilience can be tested, especially if we are not grounded. In order to maintain good health and wellbeing and to withstand the daily grind that life can throw at us, we must be grounded. Like trees, we need to be rooted to the earth to balance our lives and withstand our challenges. Staying grounded affects us physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, and though I have written about it before (Front Porch, May 2017), I feel the need to offer a few more helpful techniques.

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Mother Nature provides us with the tools to keep us grounded, and walking barefoot in grass or sand, or sitting with your back against a tree are great ways to feel a connection with the earth and with ourselves when we feel a little lost. Parts of the Eden Energy Medicine Daily Routine can also help us to get and stay grounded. up connects two The Classic Hook-u meridians (energy pathways in the body) which are like our “energetic spine” and can keep us grounded. Simply place one middle finger in your belly button and the other one on your forehead between your eyes. Push in, pull up, and breathe a few times. The Wayne Cook Posture, which was originally created to help stutterers, can help with unscrambling your mind and help to bring your emotions back in balance by grounding us. Sit in a chair and place your right foot over your left knee. Then place your left hand around your right ankle and wrap your right hand around the bottom of your foot. Breathe in slowly through your nose and raise your body along with your foot on the in-

breath and relax as you breathe out. After several breaths, switch sides and do the same pattern again. Lastly, place your fingers together, and put your thumbs right between your eyebrows. Complete the exercise by breathing in and out a few times in that position and then bring your fingers to the middle of your forehead. Push in and pull them across your forehead to your temples. There is a good reason why this next exercise is included in many of my articles. Connecting Heaven and Earth makes space in the body for energy to move, can help alleviate joint issues, and you guessed it, grounds us. Rub your hands together vigorously and shake them off. Place them on your thighs with your fingers spread and take a deep breath. On the next inhale, circle your arms out and bring them to a prayer position in front of your heart and exhale. On the next inhale, stretch one hand up and one down, stretching as far apart as you can, and hold your breath. Come back to prayer position on the exhale and repeat on the other side. Do this twice on each side and after the last stretch, bend down as far as you can, letting your arms hang in front of you. Take two deep breaths, and then swing back and forth making sideways figure eights all the way up your body. Our imagination can also be a grounding tool. If I am somewhere where I cannot complete any of these exercises, and know I need to ground, I will imagine roots growing from the bottoms of my feet into the earth. It does wonders to bring me back to the moment. To find out more or see videos of these exercises, visit www.itsallenergywellness.com Christina Ferber is a Certified Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner. www.itsallenergywellness.com

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April 2019

Emancipated Patients Naturopathy By Patrick Neustatter, MD

Not knowing much about naturopathy, I was interested when the people from the Fredericksburg Food Coop told the “there’s a new naturopath in town.” This was my prompt to go visit Brian Keenan who moved to Fredericksburg just about a year ago and who now shares office space with chiropractor Christine Thompson in downtown Fredericksburg. Sitting in his consulting room, surrounded by jars of mysterious looking herbs and learned looking books, he plied me with tea made from hibiscus, damiana, orange peel, rose petal and “a pinch of liquorice” and explained how a naturopathy takes a holistic approach. It uses many different treatments but particularly focused on life style, diet and herbal supplements. His 1 hour initial appointment and 30 minute follow ups allow him to explore his patients in far more depth than the average allopathic doctor with their 10-15 minute appointments. With prompting for an example of how a naturopath deals with patients, he told me about a lady he treated who was getting out of an abusive relationship. She was anxious and couldn’t sleep, and was having migraines. On further probing he found she was a devout Catholic, but at this crucial time her religion had lost its spiritual support. Keenan’s choice for her was passionflower. “Partly because it’s a GABA agonist” (gamma-Amminobutyric acid is the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, and supplementing it has a an anti-anxiety effect). “Partly because the early Christian missionaries saw structures in the flower as representing symbols of the last days of Jesus and the crucifixion and named it for the passion of Christ.” This Christian symbolism helped with the “resurrection” of this lady, who was able to sleep and whose migraines went away.

April 2019

Just Get Out of The Way A graduate of Bastyr University in Kenmore, WA, with an undergraduate degree in Herbal Sciences, then a doctorate in naturopathy which is “as rigorous a scientific training as a regular doctor” he explained, he is harnessing the bodies natural tendency. “If you get out the way, the body will heal itself” he notes. Getting out the way means identifying the things in the behavior, diet or environment that are making you ill and changing them. Possibly combined with some kind of supplement or therapy to help boost recovery. Having recently been introduced to the concept of functional medicine (read The Disease Delusion – Conquering the Causes of Chronic Illness for a Healthier, Longer, and Happier Life by Jeffery S. Bland, biochemist, who is “the father of functional medicine”) I am a believer in the idea that we need to look deeper than just the presenting illness. Much of the treatment in allopathic medicine is basically symptomatic. It often merely blocks one of the steps along the way rather than removing the cause of the illness. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen or naproxen for example, block the prostaglandins that are released by the inflammatory process, and relieve the symptoms. But it doesn’t get to what’s causing the inflammation in the first place. Licensure Denial Naturopathy, is not recognized in Virginia at the moment – at least not for licensure. “Anyone can call themselves a naturopath or an ‘ND” warns Keenan, “so you have to make sure they trained at an accredited institution.” And likely many of the treatments with herbs, teas, diets, massage, exercise may sound a little outthere, but “I’m very evidence based” he notes – like when advising parents about the pro’s and con’s of immunizations for their kids. It seems to me anything that moves us toward a better understanding of why we get sick and goes to the root cause must only be a good influence on the medical field in general. So I hope the state licensing authorities will come to their senses.

Patrick Neustatter is the Medical Director of the Moss Free Clinic. Magnolia Natural Medicine 434 Bridgewater St, 324-8 8614, fb MagnliaNatMed, www.magnolianaturalmedicine.com

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Aries Eleven improving our self-image & lives By christina ferber

Like it or not, we live in a society that values the way people look, which also has an impact on the way we feel about ourselves. Truth be told, even though we may wish it was different, self-confidence often stems from the perception we have of our outward beauty. Carrie Heflin’s (above) goal is to encourage our self-

beauty perceptions, and at the same time, help others feel better about themselves. That is why she recently opened Aries Eleven Electrolysis Studio. “During my youth, I started to get ridiculed because of an overabundance of body hair- I can blame my Italian heritage for that. My sensitivity to this problem continued into adulthood, so I set out to find a solution,” she said. In the 1980’s laser hair treatment was just coming on the market and after a consultation with a specialist, Heflin realized that it was not the solution she was searching for because it would only reduce certain types of hair and came with a few side effects that she was not happy about. Then she discovered Electrolysis, the only FDA approved

1875 to remove ingrown eyelashes, Electrolysis safely destroys the hair growth cells in order to prevent further growth. It can treat any area of the body except for the inside of the ears and nose, and can be combined with laser treatments, especially with skin types that laser is not as effective with. According to Heflin, there are milli-second bursts of heat with no burning effect and it is generally pain free, though the area may be a little tender afterward. She says that she has worked on clients that have actually slept through the process. A session is scheduled in 15minute increments up to an hour in length, with a 30-minute session being the average length. “My goal with Aries Eleven is to make a difference for others and ensure them that there is a permanent solution to the problems presented with unwanted hair,” Heflin said.

Christina Ferber is a teacher and Eden Energy Medicine practitioner. She enjoys highlighting the fabulous people in our area that do what they can to make a difference in others lives.

method for permanent hair removal. “I had never heard of Electrolysis before, and soon began to see a great improvement in the way I looked, as well as improvements in my selfesteem and confidence after going through several treatments,” Heflin said. After living the life of a commuter for 20 years, Heflin wanted to spend more time with her family, and desired a more rewarding profession that she believed in. In the summer of 2018, Aries Eleven Electrolysis Studio was born. “I wanted to help others the way my Electrologist had helped me. It really was a life changing experience and I want to share that,” said Heflin. “Electrolysis comes across as a scary word, but it is actually a very safe, effective way to permanently remove hair with minimal side effects and no preparation needed.” Created by an Ophthalmologist in

Aries Eleven Electrolysis Studio arieselevenelectrolysis.com. 7009 Pebble Ln E, Spotsy Courthouse, (540) 656-0 0731 facebook: Aries Eleven Electrolysis Studio Email: Carrie@arieselevenelectrolysis.com

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April 2019

Celebration of Ceramic Art 3rd annual Sophia Street Pottery Throwdown For the third year in a row, on the second Saturday in June, Sophia Street in downtown Fredericksburg is the location of a celebration of ceramic art. The date this year is June 8th. Over 20 exhibitors will be set up to display and sell their pottery. In addition to being able to purchase the work of these artists, there will be demonstrations in wheel throwing as well as a tent set up with pottery wheels for the public to participate in a hands-on experience with clay and throwing on the wheel. There will be experienced helpers to guide and teach anyone who is interested in trying this. There will be live music, refreshments and event T-shirts for sale. A collaborative piece of pottery thrown by Dan Finnegan and decorated by Trista Chapman will be raffled with proceeds benefitting Empower House. Front Porch Magazine will be featuring potters in the May and June issues that will be exhibiting at the Throwdown with a short biography and photos of their work.

and Virginia. Nealâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s functional works are decorated using the ancient technique sgraffito (carving through one layer of clay to the layer beneath). His designs are inspired by nature and artists that have come before him. He currently works at this studio at LibertyTown Arts Workshop in downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia, where he also teaches.

Trista Chapman: (above ) For the past 23 years Trista has been working with low-fire earthenware clay and a vibrant palette of underglazes. She creates and sells an original line of whimsical, colorful, functional as well as decorative pottery out of her studio and shop, Sophia Street Studios located in downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Neal Reed

Trista Chapman

Christina Bendo: (top left) Christina graduated from the University of Mary Washington. She worked as a pottery assistant at Sophia Street Studios and additionally began her own studio practice as artist-in-residence at LibertyTown Arts Workshop in Fredericksburg, Virginia. She has since traveled afield for residencies in North Carolina, Maine and Hungary. She currently makes pots in the mountains of western North Carolina.

Neal Reed: (left) Neal is a potter who enjoys making both functional and decorative pottery. Born in Virginia, he studied clay in Minnesota, North Carolina

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April 2019

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Christina Bendo

Sophia Street Pottery Throwdown June 8, Sophia Street, Downdown Next Month more Sophia Street Throwdown Pottery Artists

Name This House

Stories

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Art for Park By Gabe Pons Back by Popular Demand, "2019 Art for Park" is the third skateboard art fundraising event for theFredericksburg Skate Park Project organized by PONSHOP. Artists are charged with adorning a standard street skateboard provided by PONSHOP for a one-month exhibit in April. "Art for Park" is the third in a series of art shows that celebrate skateboard art and culture, with a portion of artwork sales towards the Fredericksburg Skate Park Project. Initiated in 2013, this organization's been dedicated to improving the existing skate spot at St. Claire Brooks Memorial Park and promoting a safe and friendly public park for the entire community. Last year we raised $2,000 for the initiative, but still have a way to go! Gabe Pons owner of PONSHOP is the coowner of PONSHOP an artist studio/classroom, gallery & retail store at 712 Caroline

Evelyn Elliott displays her “Deck” for the Art for Park Exhibit

"Art for Park" Benefit Art Show First Friday Opening Reception: April 5 (6pm-9 9pm) Exhibition thru April 28 PONSHOP, 712 Caroline st

Identify this mystery house and you could win a gift certificate from a downtown merchant. Here’s how: Email frntprch@aol.com, Subject: Mystery House, Identify house address, Your name, address, email. The poem below is a hint of the location of the mystery house. Good Luck!

Last Month’s House: 1310 Franklin Street The Winner of a gift certificate from Olde Towne Butcher is Patrick Whalen Sheltering Arms Kenmore sits magnificent and tall, on the Boulevard. No one knows but me, how you and she would whisper, in each others attic rafters. Yes, she was exhausted from the Revolutionary war, shelled and threatened daily, her family fled to the country, in carriages, doors ajar. But in the year of 1890, they built you nearby her, she liked you immediately. Ah,but in 1909, they decided to take your sturdy timbers, and turn them all around. They left your kitchen behind, near your brick friend's pear tree, but told you gently,but firmly, you must attend to moving over a block or two. Many years later, Ann and David came along, into your loving arms. They welcomed Sumter, Robert, and Elizabeth, who blossomed in your care. Thank you blessed old house, we love you tenderly. P.S. And little house,did I mention Betty Lou, Anne's lovely, Southern mother? She came to stay and fell in love with you, as most people do. front porch fredericksburg

April 2019

Art in the Burg Spotlight on Cathy Herndon By casey shaw

Circles and partial curves have been a theme throughout Fredericksburg artist Cathy Herndon's artwork for decades. They first occurred when she used gold leaf and made partial halos in many pieces depicting a mix of religious architecture, natural elements, realism and abstraction. "For me." says the Ashland native, "the curve brings your eyes into the center of thought and reality." Herndon's theme of “Portholes “ came about from the large round window in her stateroom while on a transatlantic trip to many countries. For many days there was nothing to see but the sea with it's rocking and rolling waves that changed constantly depending on the time of day, the glorious light of sunrises and sunsets, the ever-changing weather and then finally the different approaches to landscapes and ports. Herndon began painting small circles and scenes she wanted to document. But soon many realistic elements quickly changed to a mix with

April 2019

visionary abstraction. Eventually the former Fredericksburg art teacher included a broader scope from here and now to life and emotions; seeing all of these ideas through circles. "Everywhere we went," she says, "I saw portholes." Herndon, who is one of the original founding members of Art First adds, "I would like the viewer to see these as a kind of "tunnel vision" that makes you focus either on my subject or on your interpretation. Hopefully a connection will make you come full circle." Cathy's serious interest in primitive cultures and folk art can be noted as she uses a 21st century context with diverse materials such as neon lights, assemblage, paint and mixed media. Murals, jewelry and sculpture are also a large part of her art making.

“Portholes Eight” A native of Ashland, Virginia, Cathy earned a B.S. in Art and Drama from Radford University and an M.S. in Art Education from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has taught art in public schools, universities, and privately for over 30 years, earning accolades with a Fulbright Memorial Award to Japan, a teacher exchange to London, England, State Middle School Art Teacher of the Year, artist residencies in Auvillar, France and exhibitions in Greece, France, Germany and the US. Her award-winning artwork continues to be exhibited throughout the U.S. and Europe. Cathy is a founding member of Exposure Unlimited art group, past president of Fredericksburg Center for Creative Arts, and a founding member of Art First Gallery. Currently she is on the Este Assoc Este Board of Directors for Fred-E

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“Portholes Four” Fredericksburg Schwetzingen Italy, Germany Alliance. FredericksburgKathmandu Exchange and Fredericksburg/Frejus, France Sister City.

“Portholes” Exhbit by Cathy Herndon Art First Gallery 824 Caroine St., 6-9 9pm

200 William St Downtown Fredericksburg 540-373-4421

On Stage! peter & the starcatcher by Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy The Adventures of an Orphan who Becomes Peter Pan (the Boy Who Wouldn’t Grow Up) The Stafford Players, the 2019 Virginia High School League State Theatre champions, will bring “Peter and the Starcatcher” to Stafford High School’s stage on April 26-27 and May 2-4. The audience will be treated to elaborate scenery, lighting and costumes as it meets marauding pirates, jungle tyrants, unwilling comrades and unlikely heroes in a story about the bonds of friendship, duty and love. Molly, a starcatcher in training, bravely faces off against the fearsome Black Stache in a tale about a wayward orphan who becomes “the boy who wouldn’t grow up”—Peter Pan. Stafford High School Director of Theater Michael D’Addario and Fine Arts Teacher and Co-Director Chad Johnson chose a play geared for all ages. Under their direction, the Stafford High School Theater Department has earned more than 100 awards in district, regional, state and national events and is known as a formidable contender in theater competitions. The Stafford Players earned

“TULIP TIME” by Penny A. Parrish 810 Artists: Beverley Coates, Watercolorist Penny A. Parrish, Photographer; Lynn Abbott, Oil Painter Daily 10 to 6.

Artist on site Saturdays

540.371.4099

810 Caroline Street, Downtown Fredericksburg

Stage Combat Choreographer Joseph Myers (front), of Virginia Commonwealth University, orchestrates a scene between Scott Henderson (left), who plays Slank, the captain of the Neverland ship, and Austin Cox, who plays the boy who becomes Peter Pan, during a rehearsal for “Peter and the Starcatcher” at Stafford High School. the coveted state title in the Virginia High School Theatre League competition for its performance of “Alice in Wonderland” in March. Brittney Technical Director Grupe is responsible for the backstage area. A senior, she is lead carpenter for building the sets and ensures crew members execute their jobs and everything runs seamlessly backstage. “I enjoy being a part of theater, because the shows are fun and the individuals involved are amazing,” said Grupe, who plans to attend Liberty University in the fall. “I plan to keep theater in my life.” House Manager Madison Tackett is ensures the audience feels welcome and has a great experience combined with directing the House Crew in their duties. She also helps build the sets and designs and coordinates each show’s playbill that features biographies of the cast and crew, as well as advertisements. “I enjoy being in drama, because I love the worlds we get to create,” said Tackett. “People step out of situations in their own lives and are placed in new ones, where they can relate to the characters, experience different emotions and truly just bond with the actors. It’s a beautiful thing to see.” Tackett, who will also attend Liberty University, said her fascination with the arts will never change. Groups, such as the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, and Brownies, as well as companies, businesses and nonprofit groups, are invited to attend performances that will include a backstage

tour with Actor and Eagle Scout Ryan Anderson, who plays Black Stache in “Peter and the Starcatcher.” Groups will get a rare perspective of what it’s like beyond the stage and experience the many components necessary to create a production. There will also be the opportunity for groups to select theater games and question-and-answer sessions with the cast and crew. Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy, who is the president of Kruk Mullanaphy Media Group, is a public relations professional and freelance writer. 2019 Virginia High School League State Theatre Champions ‘The Stafford Players’ to Present ‘Peter and the Starcatcher’ at Stafford High School April 26-2 27 and May 2-4 4 thestaffordplayers@gmail.com.

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April 2019

Companions hopping into spring by Gerri Reid dvm

Spring is always a favorite time of the year for most people. Flowers begin to blossom, trees come alive and the birds begin to chirp. We get to spend more time outside in the sunshine with our friends and family and of course, our pets. Time for Easter egg hunts, baby chicks and bunnies! This is the time of the year people tend to purchase baby bunnies for their young children. And trust me, nothing is as cute as a picture of young children with a bunny. But caring for a rabbit is not exactly easy. Rabbits are great pets! They are smart, loving and at times entertaining. And of course, they are so cute! But what people don’t realize is having a rabbit is a 10-y year commitment. Whether they are kept indoor or outdoors, the level of care they need can be time consuming and expensive. So, if you are thinking of getting a rabbit, let me offer you some advice before you JUMP to make that decision. First, you will need to get a housing for your rabbit. For outdoor rabbits, choose a hutch or enclosure that is spacious for your rabbit depending on its size/breed. As for an indoor rabbit, like my own, you can either have them free roaming within a destinated room or also provide a hutch, bunny condo or large rabbit cage. The ones in most pet stores are rather small so be sure it’s big enough for your rabbit to hop around a bit. Place your cage in an area (Family Room) where you are often since rabbits are very social animals. Now that you have chosen a housing setup, it is time to Bunny proof your home! Rabbits like space to run and explore. They are very curious and mischievous at times. To provide them with a safe area and to protect your belongings such as cords, you will need to cover them up or put them up away from

April 2019

your rabbit’s reach. Rabbits love to chew! Be sure to provide your rabbit with lots of toys to chew. A good cardboard box castle is perfect for them to chew on, fun to make and offers hours of entertainment for your rabbit. A rabbit’s diet mainly consists of fresh hay which should be given daily. Baby rabbits should eat alfalfa hay and adult rabbits should be fed Timothy hay. Supplement your rabbit’s hay diet with fresh vegetables, fiber-rich pellets and fresh water. Remember to limit the quantity of pellets you give to adult rabbits. For those with a Green thumb, planting a garden for your rabbits is a great idea. Plant herbs such as basil, parsley and mint which they just love! The one advantage rabbits have as pets is that they can be litter-ttrained since they use the bathroom in one area. Place a litter box near the food/water/hay feeder. Rabbits like to eat hay and use the bathroom at the same time, so placing the hay in the litter box will promote good bathroom habits. Recycled newspaper litter is best as clumping litter is not recommended. My 2 Lionhead bunnies, Bun Bun and Smokey Hare are a joy! I sit in my office in the mornings and watch them run and jump around feeling so happy. I think free roaming rabbits are the best. But I do realize that caring for my bunnies takes time and effort. They love to see me coming and greet me with lots of snuggles. If you are thinking of getting a rabbit, trust me, you won’t regret it.

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

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Astrology & You

THE POETRY MAN

new paradigms

By Frank Fratoe

By Dianne Bachman

indoor/Outdoor Pictures Art galleries along the street exhibit so many fine paintings: an abstract with gold veneer, still-life of chrysanthemums, or a boy and girl playing tag. I treasure every one of them because the images they yield are a rapture that sight gives transfixing their brushstrokes through the mind of perception. Then I continue elsewhere and glance around under April-sky to regard the luminous montage of children bearing backbacks\ and a townscape coming alive Picture shown indoor and out become elegance offered to us. Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city.in loves.

Carl Jung was a serious student of astrology and spent much of his adult life exploring it. He proposed that the human psyche could be understood through the study of symbols, myth and archetypes (or universal principles) and astrology is based upon these. Through what he coined ‘synchronicity’ (simultaneous events that appear to share meaning but have no causal relationship), a person’s astrological birth chart could point them in the direction of deep understanding of the self. In 1932, Jung began a relationship with Wolfgang Pauli and their dialog spanned decades until Pauli’s death. Pauli, a pioneer in the development of quantum physics, worked together with Jung on understanding how physics and psychology are integrated, and astrology was one topic they explored. Now, I am not a mathematical whiz nor am I deeply schooled in theoretical physics, but none of my education included an appreciation of quantum mechanics. I am guessing most of us have grown up with a fairly cut and dried Newtonian approach to the way we interpret our world, especially the unseen. And this Newtonian approach seems to make mysticism and science mutually exclusive. Somehow, the fact that many of our brightest lights in science were inspired by mysticism has been lost in the drying of the ink in the history books. Werner Heisenberg, Niels Bohr and Erwin Schrodinger gained inspiration from the Vedas (ancient Sanskrit texts Albert that are primary to Hinduism). Einstein once reflected, “The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift”. I believe there is much evidence that science,

psychology and mysticism can work together to interpret our human experience and can help us navigate this meaningful and rich landscape that is our lives. Now, here are some astrological happenings for April 2019: The Sun will enter Taurus on the 21st: Sun and Uranus will be within 2 degrees, making for a good time to prepare for changes in what we value or how we value (money, earth, possessions). New Moon in Aries on the 5th : A time to go deeply within and reflect upon how we initiate things, our courage, and how we use our personal power to bring about something new evolving Full Moon in Libra on the 19th: A time to celebrate peace, focus on the gifts our relationships bring, look at how balance plays a part in our daily lives Jupiter retrograde April 10 to August 11: Jupiter is the planet of expansion, higher education and distant travel. This is a good time to reflect upon opportunities to take classes or learn something new, re-examine values or our relationship with spiritual matters. Saturn retrograde April 30 to September 18: Saturn is about structure and long-term plans. This is a good time to examine career goals. This time can also bring about an awareness of our responsibilities and a period of making plans around the limitations those responsibilities bring.

Pluto retrograde April 24 to October 3: A good time to have the Serenity Prayer handy! Pluto is intense, likes to get to the bottom of things and tends toward control. This is a good time to take stock of what we can control in our lives and what we cannot. Also, an excellent time to face any fears that hold us back. Dianne Bachman is a psychotherapist and astrologer who practices in FXBG, is passionate about Astrology, and can be reached at dbachmanlcsw@gmail.com. Photo by Diane Bachman

Dog Walking Pet Sitting Companion Play Time & Mini Furies, Too! (540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “City PetSitting” front porch fredericksburg

April 2019

#FredStrong game changing days

FXBG Scene

Maybe connection, love, kindness, or contribution? Second question: "How do I want to feel for the day?" The feeling you choose is usually closely linked to what you want to value. If you decide to value work, you may choose to feel productive and creative. If you want to value your time with loved ones, you will want to feel generous and present. This process is all about shifting our focus to what we can really do to prioritize our values and generate the feeling we do want, as opposed to what we don't want. If you decide you want to feel healthy, vibrant, awake, free, effective, on time—and you keep your focus on those feelings—you'll begin to shift your perspective. You can honestly set an intention and turned your day around: You have a bad virus, and it really takes you out of your daily routine. In the morning, you feel really sick and had to stay in bed. You could feel the guilt of not being able to keep up with your work starting to creep up. But you were able to remind yourself what your intention and values were—and what you wanted to feel. You decided to value your health, and you wanted to feel rejuvenation. When I can set the tone of my day, it trickles into everything I do. When we shift our perspective to what we desire and what we value, we begin to see those opportunities pop up in our day-to-day lives. By applying these simple strategies to your morning routine, you will begin to see the world a little bit differently—and it will definitely decrease your overall stress too. Make the decision, Develop the discipline, Be determined. Remember – DISCIPLINE IS FREEDOM

Great Dane Walking Shoppers 30

April 2019

A visual Celebration of our community

By Casey Alan Shaw

By Joan Geisler

Ask Yourself These 2 Questions Every Morning to Have Game-Changing Days First Question. As soon as you wake up, ask yourself, "What do I value the most today?" Thinking this way helps direct you toward your biggest priority for the day ahead. Maybe it's a work project, time with loved ones, or just rest, but every day, choose what you want to put first. So often, it's tempting to focus on what we don't desire throughout our day. We might think, I really don't want to have a headache right now, or I don't want to be running late. But when we find ourselves getting stuck on what we don't want, that can become an opportunity for us to decide what's truly important. If you catch yourself thinking of all the things you don't want to happen, ask yourself what type of values are important instead. What do you want to focus on today?

Fredericksburg Sketches

Joan Geisler is a Behavioral Change Specialist. www.8020healthyhabits

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SKETCH #53: The old Free Lance-S Star Building This month's Fredericksburg Sketch is less about celebrating a building than it is about celebrating years of great work that went into building an iconic local business. Betty Snider recently left the Free Lance-Star to take another job after spending twenty years at the paper, most recently as managing editor. The original art of this sketch was given to Betty at her going-away party. She has many tales about how the paper (and Fredericksburg) has changed over the last couple of decades. The Free Lance-Star relocated its offices (and the statue dubbed "Lance" out front) to the Central Park area a couple of years ago, but I suspect this building downtown on William Street will be remembered as the 'home' of the paper for years to come. Casey Alan Shaw is a local artist. He exhibits his original artwork and limited-edition prints at Art First Gallery and at www.caseyshaw.com. email: casey@caseyshaw.com

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606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg 373-7847 www.gemstonecreations.org Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesdays until 6:30 and by appointment

Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged

DOWNTOWNERS Blue Shark Antiques: Mark rEPASS

by georgia Lee Strentz

Give a Child Something to Think About

Books, Games, Amusing Novelties M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm

810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684

Going "Downtown," isn't just shopping , it is an expedition. It can turn into unexpected mind trips, side trips, food trips, actually fun, even an adventure or two. With our busy lives,we need to give ourselves a break, and downtown is the place. Become a "Townie," for a moment, jazz up your life, bump into friends, meet new friends, even a tourist or two, who are always so eager and friendly. They are vacationing and are always so happy to get some tips on how to get the most from their trip, as in food tips, interesting places to visit, even a friendship, brief (maybe not) though it may be. They love to take real stories back home with them, straight from the lips of the native Fredericksburgers. If you live here or out in the counties, put downtown on your list of enriching experiences, bring the kids, my grandson loves the antique shops. Walking into the Blue Shark Antique store, (not one, but two large shops) meeting the owner, surprised me, as antique stores are often dark and crowded, making it difficult walking through the cluttered aisles. The Blue Shark is so light, so organized, spotlessly clean and shiny. I thought I was in a library, a school, or a historical home, as the interior so attractive and inviting. Mark Repass, whose wife is a teacher, and his mom and dad, own and run the Blue Shark. They are all active in the business. Mark likes among other items, hunting and fishing antiques, toys and military items, vinyl music albums. I spotted a beautiful, 1947 prop driven toy airplane I thought was in amazing.condition. Mark said the most enjoyable part of his work is the anticipation. When going to the shows, and auctions, he never knows what interesting antique he may find, the monetary value is not important. For instance, Mark went to an auction and ran across chest of drawers. Inside a secret drawer were personal papers, and newspapers, which was so very interesting. He usually goes to auctions in Virginia, N.Carolina, the Midwest, and Ohio. Mark is not a suit and tie guy, and likes the freedom to create a unique life and his environment. Besides his mom and dad here in Fredericksburg, the person who influenced Mark and his love of history was John (J.D.) Sinn, a neighbor, who had a metal detector. Mark developed his love of history and antiques as he grew up helping J.D. find old bullets, and artifacts.

Mark loves Fredericksburg, tho he was born in Iowa. He got his first job as a golf cart boy at the beautiful, Shannon Green Golf Club. He remembers the beauty of the property we now know know as the multi-store, asphalted, Central Park. Mark appreciates downtown Fredericksburg, and that he sees people he knows everyday. He enjoys the fact that he has the opportunity to meet so many new people and tourists who visit his store. He loves the Southern hospitality that abounds in Fredericksburg, and that his family has passed their business down through the generations. Come visit The Blue Shark, (see the magnificent shark above the store) across from Goolricks Pharmacy on Caroline St.

This Gal Around Town, shops downtown exclusively, loving the ease of parking in front of stores, the nicest shop owners, interesting stores, quality goods and the bike parking is pretty good too! Love the friendly dog dishes, too. I would like to tell Fredericksburg City, more bike racks would be handy.

Blue Shark Antiques 904-9 908 Caroline St., Downtown (540) 373-5 5873 www.bluesharkantiques.com FB @ Blue Shark -A Antiques & Collectibles

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April 2019