contents
closeups 3
johnny johnson ...teacher, humanitarian
9
9
Linda Bailey ...giving gifts to the community
23
christina ferber the energizer bunny
Porch talk .
4
on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages
5
hot dog days & cool events
6
master gardeners
7
on the trails: Christina Holbrook & Skyler place
8
I have a friend: true heart
10
barbara taylor hall: memory & mood
11
Makers district: ladies of the hood Poetryman: home observatory
12
Vino: up on the roof
13
season’s bounty: the 3 a’s
14
cooking with kyle: deviled potatoes
16-17
Calendar of events
18
history’s stories.:central battlefield trust our heritage: graduation garb
19
what’s in a song?....link ray
20
Senior Care: don’t procrastinate,plan
21
celebrate life: art of aging expo
22
its all energy: favorites emancipated patients: the fxbg problem
24
sophia street pottery throwdown
25
mYSTERY hOUSE STORIES OF FXBG: alexis
27
on stage: night on broadway porchlight: metamorphosis
28
companions: rescue team
29
everything green: andy mcleod
30
fredericksburg sketches
31
downtowners: gabe & pumpkin va lake writers
C ELEBRATING J OHNNY J OHNSON Teacher, Humanitarian, Master Artist by Kathleen Walsh & Pamela Bridgewater
5
...And more! 5
29
juneteenth celebration
15
silver spoon fine catering
26
art in the burg: emerging artists, friends & shutterbugs Cover: “Allman’s” By Kevin Klump
Johnny on his Tour of Jamaica with the Art in Embassies Program. with wife Jean & a local admirer An effort is made to express the essence of the subject without unnecessary details. I enjoy the challenge of forcing the viewer to look at the work from many different perspectives. Social commentaries are often present in my work and are based on my own life experiences. It is exciting for me to experiment as I create. ~ Johnny Johnson, 2002
ow
ts N e k Tic
Johnny P. Johnson moved to Fredericksburg in 1959 to teach art at Walker-G Grant High School. That job evolved into a life of commitment to family, church, community and art. Few persons in recent memory have had so profound an effect on this community. Born in Henderson, NC, Johnny showed an early interest in art. His
ale
S on
mother, Viola, worked while raising him and his sister. She fostered his keen sensitivity and strong social conscience. She and his teachers recognized and encouraged his affinity for art. Johnny drew everywhere; on 10-cent pads of paper and on his school books as Johnny’s parents were required to pay for his textbooks because he had drawn on every page and margin. At Virginia State College, where Johnny received a Bachelor of Science degree, he was captain of his basketball team and elected to the Sports Hall of Fame for his prowess as a point guard. Johnny met Jean Blackstock when they were teachers at Walker-Grant and married her in 1961. He chuckles, “I
walked by her room a lot!” Their two sons Shelton and John Patrick expanded the family to two daughters-in-law and five special grandchildren. Johnny’s life as a schoolteacher is unique. His former students retain high affection for him and the state of Virginia recognized him as ‘Teacher of the Year’ in 1977. " He was the first African American to join the teaching ranks at the University of Mary Washington in his capacity as adjunct faculty." For 30 years he taught adult community classes at Dorothy Hart Community Center and to African Americans at the Harambee 360° Experimental Theater and the Anne Hamrick Community House. A leader in social issues, Johnny has long been committed to finding common ground between black and white communities. As the first black man in several institutions and organizations, he brought grace, good humor and common sense to the table. When discussing an incident in his early life he said: “that experience taught me that if you don’t have meaningful interactions with people, the stereotype you have grown up to accept will be very much apparent, your response to people who are different from you will be basically based on it. Johnny contributed to cultural diplomacy by participating in the US Department of State Art in Embassies Program -- sharing the story of our country and making countless friends through his paintings and persona. Following a visit to Benin, West Africa, he spearheaded an Art for Africa Support Group, which provided art materials to African artists. He also enhanced the relationship between Fredericksburg and her Sister Cities in Frejus, France and Prince's Town, Ghana through visits and exchanges. His paintings at the US residence in
Montenegro and his exhibit at the Mutual Art Gallery in Jamaica received rave reviews. As a philanthropist, Johnny has donated tens of thousands of dollars of paintings for charitable and educational causes, with an emphasis on African American causes. It is hard to comprehend that a man so devoted to family, students and community could have time for art, yet Johnny is a prolific painter who as produced over 5,000 pieces. They hang in embassies, banks, hospitals and other institutions, as well as in the homes of hundreds of people throughout the US, Europe and Africa. His work encompasses three major themes; family, nature and social commentary. Johnny explains, "Most of my inspiration comes from my love for people and the natural environment.” In his paintings we find order, familiarity and bold colors. While color leaps from the canvas, there is the structure of form, image, and texture; the studied use of mediums and careful attention to composition. Each piece invites us to look again. Each piece connects us. We see, not just art, but the artist, and there we find a master. Celebrate Johnny Johnson Day Saturday, July 7 Look for schedule of day’s events in July Issue of FPF
Kathleen Walsh, & Ambassador Pamela Bridgewater, Jamaica (Ret) are Co-chairs of the committee of the Arts and Culture Council of the Rappahannock (ACCR).
Summer in Bloom
June 29th
7pm
AT
Sunken Well Tavern 720 Littlepage St 540.370.0911 Doors Open at 5:30pm... Limited Seating 2
June 2018
Front porch fredericksburg
723 Caroline St
899.8077
Daily 10-5:30; Sunday 12-5
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
3
contents
closeups 3
johnny johnson ...teacher, humanitarian
9
9
Linda Bailey ...giving gifts to the community
23
christina ferber the energizer bunny
Porch talk .
4
on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages
5
hot dog days & cool events
6
master gardeners
7
on the trails: Christina Holbrook & Skyler place
8
I have a friend: true heart
10
barbara taylor hall: memory & mood
11
Makers district: ladies of the hood Poetryman: home observatory
12
Vino: up on the roof
13
season’s bounty: the 3 a’s
14
cooking with kyle: deviled potatoes
16-17
Calendar of events
18
history’s stories.:central battlefield trust our heritage: graduation garb
19
what’s in a song?....link ray
20
Senior Care: don’t procrastinate,plan
21
celebrate life: art of aging expo
22
its all energy: favorites emancipated patients: the fxbg problem
24
sophia street pottery throwdown
25
mYSTERY hOUSE STORIES OF FXBG: alexis
27
on stage: night on broadway porchlight: metamorphosis
28
companions: rescue team
29
everything green: andy mcleod
30
fredericksburg sketches
31
downtowners: gabe & pumpkin va lake writers
C ELEBRATING J OHNNY J OHNSON Teacher, Humanitarian, Master Artist by Kathleen Walsh & Pamela Bridgewater
5
...And more! 5
29
juneteenth celebration
15
silver spoon fine catering
26
art in the burg: emerging artists, friends & shutterbugs Cover: “Allman’s” By Kevin Klump
Johnny on his Tour of Jamaica with the Art in Embassies Program. with wife Jean & a local admirer An effort is made to express the essence of the subject without unnecessary details. I enjoy the challenge of forcing the viewer to look at the work from many different perspectives. Social commentaries are often present in my work and are based on my own life experiences. It is exciting for me to experiment as I create. ~ Johnny Johnson, 2002
ow
ts N e k Tic
Johnny P. Johnson moved to Fredericksburg in 1959 to teach art at Walker-G Grant High School. That job evolved into a life of commitment to family, church, community and art. Few persons in recent memory have had so profound an effect on this community. Born in Henderson, NC, Johnny showed an early interest in art. His
ale
S on
mother, Viola, worked while raising him and his sister. She fostered his keen sensitivity and strong social conscience. She and his teachers recognized and encouraged his affinity for art. Johnny drew everywhere; on 10-cent pads of paper and on his school books as Johnny’s parents were required to pay for his textbooks because he had drawn on every page and margin. At Virginia State College, where Johnny received a Bachelor of Science degree, he was captain of his basketball team and elected to the Sports Hall of Fame for his prowess as a point guard. Johnny met Jean Blackstock when they were teachers at Walker-Grant and married her in 1961. He chuckles, “I
walked by her room a lot!” Their two sons Shelton and John Patrick expanded the family to two daughters-in-law and five special grandchildren. Johnny’s life as a schoolteacher is unique. His former students retain high affection for him and the state of Virginia recognized him as ‘Teacher of the Year’ in 1977. " He was the first African American to join the teaching ranks at the University of Mary Washington in his capacity as adjunct faculty." For 30 years he taught adult community classes at Dorothy Hart Community Center and to African Americans at the Harambee 360° Experimental Theater and the Anne Hamrick Community House. A leader in social issues, Johnny has long been committed to finding common ground between black and white communities. As the first black man in several institutions and organizations, he brought grace, good humor and common sense to the table. When discussing an incident in his early life he said: “that experience taught me that if you don’t have meaningful interactions with people, the stereotype you have grown up to accept will be very much apparent, your response to people who are different from you will be basically based on it. Johnny contributed to cultural diplomacy by participating in the US Department of State Art in Embassies Program -- sharing the story of our country and making countless friends through his paintings and persona. Following a visit to Benin, West Africa, he spearheaded an Art for Africa Support Group, which provided art materials to African artists. He also enhanced the relationship between Fredericksburg and her Sister Cities in Frejus, France and Prince's Town, Ghana through visits and exchanges. His paintings at the US residence in
Montenegro and his exhibit at the Mutual Art Gallery in Jamaica received rave reviews. As a philanthropist, Johnny has donated tens of thousands of dollars of paintings for charitable and educational causes, with an emphasis on African American causes. It is hard to comprehend that a man so devoted to family, students and community could have time for art, yet Johnny is a prolific painter who as produced over 5,000 pieces. They hang in embassies, banks, hospitals and other institutions, as well as in the homes of hundreds of people throughout the US, Europe and Africa. His work encompasses three major themes; family, nature and social commentary. Johnny explains, "Most of my inspiration comes from my love for people and the natural environment.” In his paintings we find order, familiarity and bold colors. While color leaps from the canvas, there is the structure of form, image, and texture; the studied use of mediums and careful attention to composition. Each piece invites us to look again. Each piece connects us. We see, not just art, but the artist, and there we find a master. Celebrate Johnny Johnson Day Saturday, July 7 Look for schedule of day’s events in July Issue of FPF
Kathleen Walsh, & Ambassador Pamela Bridgewater, Jamaica (Ret) are Co-chairs of the committee of the Arts and Culture Council of the Rappahannock (ACCR).
Summer in Bloom
June 29th
7pm
AT
Sunken Well Tavern 720 Littlepage St 540.370.0911 Doors Open at 5:30pm... Limited Seating 2
June 2018
Front porch fredericksburg
723 Caroline St
899.8077
Daily 10-5:30; Sunday 12-5
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
3
Suzy Woollam
ON THE PORCH Guest Porch Editorial
Contributing Writers & Artists Rita Allen Chuck Archer A.E. Bayne Laurie Black Carol Bochert Pamela Bridgewater Kevin Brown Susan Brown Collette Caprara Caitlin Daly Renee Dunn Christina Ferber Dan Finnegan Frank Fratoe K. Jeanne Frazer Rich Gaudio Joan M. Geisler Jon Gerlach Alexis Grogan Eunice Haigler Ralph “Tuffy”Hicks Judy Hill Karl Karch David C. Kennedy Kevin Klump Jo Loving Donna McCague Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy Pamela Lake Pell Clint Manning Pete Morelewicz Vanessa Moncure Patrick Neustatter Sarah Perry Carol Phifer Gabriel Pons M.L. Powers Casey Alan Shaw Vivian Shelton Lee Storm Georgia Strentz James Kyle Synder Kathleen Walsh Tina Will Sonja Wise Norma Woodward
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 2018 Olde Towne Publishing Co. All rights reserved.
4
June 2018
baseball & friends & fathers by suzy woollam Welcome June! The sun is sunnier, the days are longer and the allstar break is so close you can almost taste it! Admittedly, I am a baseball fan. Those who know me would say I was a “we interrupt this family for Boston Red Sox Season” fan. They would not be wrong. I do love my Sox. Like a deep-down-DNAlevel-die-hard-Buckner-depression-man-Ihate-the-Yankees Red Sox Fan. I secretly dream of the day when I will be the one to float drag the baseline at Fenway. It could happen. But on a broader scale, I just love Baseball. Baseball teaches us. It guides us with its wisdom (It's like déjà vu all over again) For Baseball is a thinking man’s game. I had a friend who was arguably as big a baseball fan as I am. He knew why 6+4+3 =2. OPS, ERA’s and WHIP’s peppered our every conversation, like most people discuss the weather. We once “watched” an entire World Series (2013, 6 games, Red Sox for the Win) together via text message. We drove people absolutely crazy. And while we had an intense commonality, a “like-mindedness”, we had one major point of contention. He was a Yankees fan. I know what you are thinking..a Red Sox fan and a Yankees fan cannot be friends. It’s like, peanut butter and ketchup, Hatfield’s and McCoy’s. It’s not possible that two such strongly opposing sides could ever find a common ground. But, we did. We took the time to see past our differences, to find the things we had in common. We did not simply give Tolerance to one another, in that Golden Rule do-unto-others paradigm, we actually listened to one another, learned to accept our differences as well as similarities, and understood the others point of view. Despite our opposing viewpoints, we found
messages Congratulations Front Porch for your 250 issue! (May 2018) You always give us something to look forward to each month! Phyllis Whitley Congrats on your 250! Billl Freehling Great Cover (May 2018) Kevin Brown
Front porch fredericksburg
a commonality, a mutual respect in, and for, each other. We agreed to disagree, supported one another in our decisions, and in our team choices. Had I been short sighted enough to eschew this relationship because of our oppositions, I would have missed out on so many things. I would have missed having him as a friend, a confidant and a source of information for almost 20 years. I would have missed his wit, and wisdom, his kindness and vision for a brighter future for our community. I would have missed out on the joy of knowing, and loving, his family as my own. Had I let myself be close minded, I would have missed out on so many magical, irreplaceable moments. I would have missed the opportunity to remember and share what I learned from him, to “pay it forward” if you will. I can share with his Wife what an amazing friend he was, how he was kind to me when others were not. How he saw potential, and had faith in me when others couldn’t. I can share with his daughter his fabulous sense of humor, his reminder to live in the moment and to find happiness wherever you are in life. How his eyes would light up when he spoke her name. And I can share with his granddaughter how very, very much he loved her, and wanted the best for her. How he loved being a Husband, and a Father. That family was what truly mattered. And on a
Hello friends at the Front Porch, As a frequent visitor of Fredericksburg, I must admit I eagerly await every new issue as a means of staying in the know about all things Fred. I comb through it every month with my good friend VJ, and never has an issue disappointed. It is impossible for your investment in and adoration for this wonderful town to go without notice. Thank you for all you do! A faithful reader Molly K Freiert
personal level, a reminder to always meet, accept and love people where they are at. Not where you need them to be. To accept without judgment, to support without fixing, and to be fully present in the moment, for it might be the only moment that you have. To support my community, to be kind, to “Look at the man in the mirror” And, on June 16 , Father’s Day Weekend , as the Red Sox prepare to take on Seattle, I will be happily watching New York battle Tampa Bay, proudly wearing my Yankees T-shirt, gratefully celebrating an amazing friend, father, and baseball fan. Let’s go Yankees!
Suzy will happily talk about essential oils, natural health, and all things baseball at The Scenter of Town, on Charles Street.
Yeah for Doctor Yum, "meet Dr. Yum", May 2018 Erin Grant Kiblawi
We appreciate the excellent work of Front Porch Magazine Sincerely, Kathleen Walsh & Arts and Culture Council of the Rappahannock What an accomplishment, 250 Issues & 21 years of bringing “Good News” to the ‘Burg! Thanks Brad Delanney
Juneteenth 2018 - We Are One Celebrating Unity By Eunice Haigler Juneteenth annual is the celebration of the freeing of the last of the slaves in Galveston, Texas, two and one half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. This event has been held for the last four years in Fredericksburg at New City Fellowship, a church founded to create racial diversity. Juneteenth is the sustaining event born Race Coalition of out of the Fredericksburg when two groups (Virginia Organizing and the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship) came together to discuss racism in the area. It turned out to be the 150th anniversary of Juneteenth, so it was decided we would use that celebration to kick off our event. It has since become one of the largest African American events in this area. The theme for Juneteenth 2018 is "We Are One", with the purpose of giving hope and knowledge to the community as they get to fellowship with one another. Given some of the events this past year, it is more important than ever that we come together in Unity in order to create a better way of life for all citizens. Some events Juneteenth sponsors are: The David Q Haigler award, given to people of the community who aren't normally recognized; David's Game, a mentoring program teaching the game of chess. Both of these events are in honor after my son, who was murdered in 2011. Additionally, Mrs. Cleo Coleman, president of the Sunday School Union of Spotsylvania, will again do a Harriett Tubman reenactment. We will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King with a tribute from Rev. Dobynes of
Old Site Baptist Church. The Unitarian Universalist Church Fellowship Handbells will again provide music, along with Mt. Zion Baptist Church and other groups. There will be lots more entertainment, including Praise Dancer Minister Linda Young, the mother and daughter duo McKenzie Morefield and Tanika Morefield, and many moire. We will also introduce MCs Ahmad Spense and Malik Johnson, who have made their marks in the community in media, and Miss Lacy Hughes and Mr. Max Nectabor, who both have incredible voices. We will again have a homeless o u t r e a c h c o m p o n e n t sponsored by Rev. Day and Minister Sharon McCall. Food and clothing will be available, with all food and water left over from the event going to one of the homeless shelters. The event will be held on Saturday, June 23 from noon to 7 p.m., New City Fellowship, 200 Prince Edward Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401. It is free and open to all. The success of this event is due solely to the kindness of donations. Please contact Eunice Haigler @ 540-429-6322 for information or to make a donation. Juneteenth June 23, Noon-7 7pm New City Fellowship
Eunice Haigler is a long-time resident of the Fredericksburg area, an activist, and is particularly passionate about race relations and social justice.
Hot Dog Days, Cool Event s 101 Days of summer By Chuck Archer It’s a warm, humid Tuesday afternoon in May as B101.5 promotions assistant Stephen Tuchings (below) prepares to slide into a 15 pound bee costume. Fully engulfed in what amounts to two heavy winter coats, gloves, thick boots and a heavy bee head, Tuchings bravely zips up and starts his workday transforming into B101.5’s mascot, Buzzy the Bee. While the Buzzy costume adds about 20 degrees to the already hot day,
entertainment schedule for the 2018 Picnic in the Park is: June 5 - Karen Jonas; June 12 - Dave & Zack Guy; June 19 - Gerry Maddox; June 26 - Becky Y Slam Buzzy then flies off to another signature event during the B101.5 “101 Days of Summer”, the Spotsylvania Stars and Stripes Spectacular at the Spotsylvania Courthouse area. Always held on the Saturday before July 4th (this
Tuchings isn’t fazed. He nimbly dances, waves, hugs and takes selfies with kids and parents at the weekly Picnic in the Park in Hurkamp Park in downtown Fredericksburg. Organized by the Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation, and Events Department, it’s one of the signature events signaling the beginning of B101.5’s “101 Days of Summer”. Started in 1997, Picnic in the Park has been a spring and early fall tradition. Every Tuesday, from 11:30am 1:30pm, for 8 weeks May through June, and 3 weeks in September, Hurkamp Park comes alive with music and entertainment just right for audiences of all ages. B101.5’s Buzzy and the B-Crew are always there with fun craft activities for the kids. The remaining June
year on June 30th), Stars and Stripes is an all-day event with live music on three stages, food, games, and the main event, the W.J. Vakos Fireworks Spectacular at dusk. B101.5 has been a partner of Stars and Stripes for well over a decade and it’s consistently the station’s most-attended event. While Buzzy (and Tuchings) is buzzing from event to event during the “101 Days of Summer”, on-the-air B101.5 will celebrate summer in other ways. From cash giveaways with the Big Money Mystery Voice to ticket giveaways to some of the hottest concerts like Pentatonix at Jiffy Lube Live, there’s always something hot playing on B101.5 all summer long.
Chuck Archer is the Operations Manager at B101 & 1230 WFVA
Your Hometown Jeweler Since 1940
On-Premise Jewelry Repair Large Selection of ESTATE JEWELRY 212 William Street,Fredericksburg 540-373-5513 Mon-Fri 9-5:30; Sat 9-4 jewelboxfredericksburgva.webs.com jewelbox14k@yahoo.com front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
5
Suzy Woollam
ON THE PORCH Guest Porch Editorial
Contributing Writers & Artists Rita Allen Chuck Archer A.E. Bayne Laurie Black Carol Bochert Pamela Bridgewater Kevin Brown Susan Brown Collette Caprara Caitlin Daly Renee Dunn Christina Ferber Dan Finnegan Frank Fratoe K. Jeanne Frazer Rich Gaudio Joan M. Geisler Jon Gerlach Alexis Grogan Eunice Haigler Ralph “Tuffy”Hicks Judy Hill Karl Karch David C. Kennedy Kevin Klump Jo Loving Donna McCague Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy Pamela Lake Pell Clint Manning Pete Morelewicz Vanessa Moncure Patrick Neustatter Sarah Perry Carol Phifer Gabriel Pons M.L. Powers Casey Alan Shaw Vivian Shelton Lee Storm Georgia Strentz James Kyle Synder Kathleen Walsh Tina Will Sonja Wise Norma Woodward
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 2018 Olde Towne Publishing Co. All rights reserved.
4
June 2018
baseball & friends & fathers by suzy woollam Welcome June! The sun is sunnier, the days are longer and the allstar break is so close you can almost taste it! Admittedly, I am a baseball fan. Those who know me would say I was a “we interrupt this family for Boston Red Sox Season” fan. They would not be wrong. I do love my Sox. Like a deep-down-DNAlevel-die-hard-Buckner-depression-man-Ihate-the-Yankees Red Sox Fan. I secretly dream of the day when I will be the one to float drag the baseline at Fenway. It could happen. But on a broader scale, I just love Baseball. Baseball teaches us. It guides us with its wisdom (It's like déjà vu all over again) For Baseball is a thinking man’s game. I had a friend who was arguably as big a baseball fan as I am. He knew why 6+4+3 =2. OPS, ERA’s and WHIP’s peppered our every conversation, like most people discuss the weather. We once “watched” an entire World Series (2013, 6 games, Red Sox for the Win) together via text message. We drove people absolutely crazy. And while we had an intense commonality, a “like-mindedness”, we had one major point of contention. He was a Yankees fan. I know what you are thinking..a Red Sox fan and a Yankees fan cannot be friends. It’s like, peanut butter and ketchup, Hatfield’s and McCoy’s. It’s not possible that two such strongly opposing sides could ever find a common ground. But, we did. We took the time to see past our differences, to find the things we had in common. We did not simply give Tolerance to one another, in that Golden Rule do-unto-others paradigm, we actually listened to one another, learned to accept our differences as well as similarities, and understood the others point of view. Despite our opposing viewpoints, we found
messages Congratulations Front Porch for your 250 issue! (May 2018) You always give us something to look forward to each month! Phyllis Whitley Congrats on your 250! Billl Freehling Great Cover (May 2018) Kevin Brown
Front porch fredericksburg
a commonality, a mutual respect in, and for, each other. We agreed to disagree, supported one another in our decisions, and in our team choices. Had I been short sighted enough to eschew this relationship because of our oppositions, I would have missed out on so many things. I would have missed having him as a friend, a confidant and a source of information for almost 20 years. I would have missed his wit, and wisdom, his kindness and vision for a brighter future for our community. I would have missed out on the joy of knowing, and loving, his family as my own. Had I let myself be close minded, I would have missed out on so many magical, irreplaceable moments. I would have missed the opportunity to remember and share what I learned from him, to “pay it forward” if you will. I can share with his Wife what an amazing friend he was, how he was kind to me when others were not. How he saw potential, and had faith in me when others couldn’t. I can share with his daughter his fabulous sense of humor, his reminder to live in the moment and to find happiness wherever you are in life. How his eyes would light up when he spoke her name. And I can share with his granddaughter how very, very much he loved her, and wanted the best for her. How he loved being a Husband, and a Father. That family was what truly mattered. And on a
Hello friends at the Front Porch, As a frequent visitor of Fredericksburg, I must admit I eagerly await every new issue as a means of staying in the know about all things Fred. I comb through it every month with my good friend VJ, and never has an issue disappointed. It is impossible for your investment in and adoration for this wonderful town to go without notice. Thank you for all you do! A faithful reader Molly K Freiert
personal level, a reminder to always meet, accept and love people where they are at. Not where you need them to be. To accept without judgment, to support without fixing, and to be fully present in the moment, for it might be the only moment that you have. To support my community, to be kind, to “Look at the man in the mirror” And, on June 16 , Father’s Day Weekend , as the Red Sox prepare to take on Seattle, I will be happily watching New York battle Tampa Bay, proudly wearing my Yankees T-shirt, gratefully celebrating an amazing friend, father, and baseball fan. Let’s go Yankees!
Suzy will happily talk about essential oils, natural health, and all things baseball at The Scenter of Town, on Charles Street.
Yeah for Doctor Yum, "meet Dr. Yum", May 2018 Erin Grant Kiblawi
We appreciate the excellent work of Front Porch Magazine Sincerely, Kathleen Walsh & Arts and Culture Council of the Rappahannock What an accomplishment, 250 Issues & 21 years of bringing “Good News” to the ‘Burg! Thanks Brad Delanney
Juneteenth 2018 - We Are One Celebrating Unity By Eunice Haigler Juneteenth annual is the celebration of the freeing of the last of the slaves in Galveston, Texas, two and one half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. This event has been held for the last four years in Fredericksburg at New City Fellowship, a church founded to create racial diversity. Juneteenth is the sustaining event born Race Coalition of out of the Fredericksburg when two groups (Virginia Organizing and the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship) came together to discuss racism in the area. It turned out to be the 150th anniversary of Juneteenth, so it was decided we would use that celebration to kick off our event. It has since become one of the largest African American events in this area. The theme for Juneteenth 2018 is "We Are One", with the purpose of giving hope and knowledge to the community as they get to fellowship with one another. Given some of the events this past year, it is more important than ever that we come together in Unity in order to create a better way of life for all citizens. Some events Juneteenth sponsors are: The David Q Haigler award, given to people of the community who aren't normally recognized; David's Game, a mentoring program teaching the game of chess. Both of these events are in honor after my son, who was murdered in 2011. Additionally, Mrs. Cleo Coleman, president of the Sunday School Union of Spotsylvania, will again do a Harriett Tubman reenactment. We will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King with a tribute from Rev. Dobynes of
Old Site Baptist Church. The Unitarian Universalist Church Fellowship Handbells will again provide music, along with Mt. Zion Baptist Church and other groups. There will be lots more entertainment, including Praise Dancer Minister Linda Young, the mother and daughter duo McKenzie Morefield and Tanika Morefield, and many moire. We will also introduce MCs Ahmad Spense and Malik Johnson, who have made their marks in the community in media, and Miss Lacy Hughes and Mr. Max Nectabor, who both have incredible voices. We will again have a homeless o u t r e a c h c o m p o n e n t sponsored by Rev. Day and Minister Sharon McCall. Food and clothing will be available, with all food and water left over from the event going to one of the homeless shelters. The event will be held on Saturday, June 23 from noon to 7 p.m., New City Fellowship, 200 Prince Edward Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401. It is free and open to all. The success of this event is due solely to the kindness of donations. Please contact Eunice Haigler @ 540-429-6322 for information or to make a donation. Juneteenth June 23, Noon-7 7pm New City Fellowship
Eunice Haigler is a long-time resident of the Fredericksburg area, an activist, and is particularly passionate about race relations and social justice.
Hot Dog Days, Cool Event s 101 Days of summer By Chuck Archer It’s a warm, humid Tuesday afternoon in May as B101.5 promotions assistant Stephen Tuchings (below) prepares to slide into a 15 pound bee costume. Fully engulfed in what amounts to two heavy winter coats, gloves, thick boots and a heavy bee head, Tuchings bravely zips up and starts his workday transforming into B101.5’s mascot, Buzzy the Bee. While the Buzzy costume adds about 20 degrees to the already hot day,
entertainment schedule for the 2018 Picnic in the Park is: June 5 - Karen Jonas; June 12 - Dave & Zack Guy; June 19 - Gerry Maddox; June 26 - Becky Y Slam Buzzy then flies off to another signature event during the B101.5 “101 Days of Summer”, the Spotsylvania Stars and Stripes Spectacular at the Spotsylvania Courthouse area. Always held on the Saturday before July 4th (this
Tuchings isn’t fazed. He nimbly dances, waves, hugs and takes selfies with kids and parents at the weekly Picnic in the Park in Hurkamp Park in downtown Fredericksburg. Organized by the Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation, and Events Department, it’s one of the signature events signaling the beginning of B101.5’s “101 Days of Summer”. Started in 1997, Picnic in the Park has been a spring and early fall tradition. Every Tuesday, from 11:30am 1:30pm, for 8 weeks May through June, and 3 weeks in September, Hurkamp Park comes alive with music and entertainment just right for audiences of all ages. B101.5’s Buzzy and the B-Crew are always there with fun craft activities for the kids. The remaining June
year on June 30th), Stars and Stripes is an all-day event with live music on three stages, food, games, and the main event, the W.J. Vakos Fireworks Spectacular at dusk. B101.5 has been a partner of Stars and Stripes for well over a decade and it’s consistently the station’s most-attended event. While Buzzy (and Tuchings) is buzzing from event to event during the “101 Days of Summer”, on-the-air B101.5 will celebrate summer in other ways. From cash giveaways with the Big Money Mystery Voice to ticket giveaways to some of the hottest concerts like Pentatonix at Jiffy Lube Live, there’s always something hot playing on B101.5 all summer long.
Chuck Archer is the Operations Manager at B101 & 1230 WFVA
Your Hometown Jeweler Since 1940
On-Premise Jewelry Repair Large Selection of ESTATE JEWELRY 212 William Street,Fredericksburg 540-373-5513 Mon-Fri 9-5:30; Sat 9-4 jewelboxfredericksburgva.webs.com jewelbox14k@yahoo.com front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
5
On the Trails
How Does A Master Gardener Grow? King George Master Gardeners
From the Couch to the Canal: Christa Holbrook and Skyler Place
By Tina Will
The miles between Fredericksburg and King George have gotten shorter (in my view) due to the energy and hard work of our King George Master Gardeners (above) (MGACRA covers a four county area). New gardens have been installed, and landscape rejuvenation and tree and shrub pruning projects have been completed at three King George locations with great results. There are more than ten MGs living in King George and they have worked for the enjoyment and reward of seeing these well used sites renewed. Just as one enters the King George area (on Route 3 near the Fire Department) the King George Citizens Center (KGCC) hosts many meetings and events. Recently its surrounding shrubs needed some maintenance, so our new MG Kelley Gaske saw this as a great opportunity to apply her training. She offered a pruning workshop there recruiting citizens to help and teaching them proper pruning techniques at the same time. Inspired by her effort, MG Linda Kline realized the KGCC landscape needed to be rejuvenated so she recruited help from our MGs. With lots of input from the 'team,' MG Sherry Graham developed the
landscape design plan and plant list. Tim Smith, Director of King George Parks and Recreation (KGP&R) approved the plan and generous donations were received from James Madison Garden Club and the King George Garden Club. Phase 1 of the plan was completed in the Fall of 2017 with volunteer help from Rappahannock Area's Day of Caring and the following MGs: Sherry Graham, Linda Kline, Kelley Gaske, Deloris Chen, Sharon Balilea, Clara Yates, Sue Ellen Kling, Alvin Calhoun, and Glen Valdez. That's a lot of help, but many hands do make the tasks easier and more fun! Caledon State Park has a new Heritage Garden just started by MG Alvin Calhoun with help from MG Glen Valdez. This was suggested by Americorp volunteer Will Roszell for the benefit of all, but particularly for school class trips to use as an educational tool. The work started with an overgrown garden that needed to be cleaned out and replanted. Friends of Caledon contributed financial help, and a local Boy Scout designed an Eagle Scout project to clear the 60' by 20' area of the accumulated vegetation using a Bush Hog and lots of muscle power. Perennials to attract butterflies and pollinating insects have been planted
including Coreopsis, Brown Eyed Susan, Baptisia, Goldenrod, Cardinal Flower, Lupine, Yarrow, and Swamp Milkweed. Cedell Brooks, Jr Park off Route 205 (formerly Shiloh Park) is in the process of getting an updated Natural Resources Education landscape. MG Mary Ellen Green took charge of this project. A Native Plant garden is planned, and MG Sue Ellen Kling obtained internet friendly Plant Tags (Plantsmap.com) for the trees that now ring the baseball and soccer fields. An Outdoor Education Center is also part of the long-term plans that are being coordinated by Tim Smith of KGP&R, with assistance from the VA Department of Forestry, KG Extension Office, Master Naturalists, Master Gardeners, 4-H, and Scouts. Our entire Master Gardener Association as well as the citizenry they have served in King George gain inspiration from their work to bring these projects to completion. Kudos to all of them! Tina Will has volunteered with MGACRA for 13 years and lives near Ferry Farm in Stafford County. Photos by Vivian Shelton
By Kevin Brown
This month we meet local law enforcement officers and housemates Christa Holbrook (right) and Skyler Place (left), two service-oriented citizens who are making our community a better place. I asked Christa and Skyler to share "two sides of the same story" about an inspiring #optoutside adventure they recently experienced. Christa's side of the story: "Skyler and I were lounging on the couch watching crime shows on TV when I saw a Facebook post from Kevin Brown asking for a few volunteers to help clean up the Rappahannock Canal. I told Skyler "we should do that next weekend sometime" and she said "No Christa, tell him we want
to do it now". So I sent a response, but then immediately regretted my decision because we walked outside and it was FREEZING. Then Skyler told me she has only ever been in a canoe once in her life. As an avid outdoorswoman with significant experience in the water, I know how difficult it can be in a boat with a new person. We probably would have done nothing all day (though we did intend to walk the Canal Path later), but Kevin's post motivated us to get off the couch and out of the house. And you know what? We had so much fun! And Skyler wasn't too bad in the canoe after all (life vests were worn but thankfully not needed). Prior to that day, we hadn't
known each other very long. We had actually met on recently at work, and Skyler had just moved into the house. So we were strangers just getting to know each other, and this impromptu canal adventure really strengthened our relationship. Although we come from such different backgrounds, we've discovered we both enjoy getting out on the trails, with a mutual love for community, nature, animals, and people." Skyler's side of the story: "One day, while we were walking the canal and trying to spot as many turtles as we could, we witnessed some good Samaritans cleaning the canal in a canoe. A couple days later, Christa found a Facebook post about the effort to clean the canal and joined the group. It wasn't until that weekend, we were being lazy and lounging on the couch avoiding adult responsibilities like laundry and grocery shopping for the week, when Christa read me a post about "two volunteers needed this afternoon to help clean the canal". I'm pretty sure my exact words were "OMG we're two
volunteers let's do it!" Christa was more hesitant, she was going to ask to volunteer another weekend, but I convinced her they needed help now. So we scrambled to find warm/waterproof clothes and gloves, then hopped into the car to meet the other volunteers. It wasn't until we were in the car that I confessed I'd only been in a canoe one other time at 4-H Camp and we tipped the canoe. Luckily, everything went smoothly, and we had a blast helping clean up the canal and made some new friends in our community. Although Christa and I have only known each other for less than a year, she has already become a great friend. Our birthdays are a day apart, we both love crime shows/scary movies, furry creatures, and spending time outdoors on the trails." Thanks for sharing your story of community service, Christa and Skyler, and may your blossoming friendship be continually filled with outdoor fun and adventure. Kevin Brown is the administrator of the "On the Fredericksburg Va Trails�
601 LAFAYETTE BLVD
roxburyfarmgarden.com MAIN: (540) 373-9124 NURSERY: (540) 371-8802
We Have All Your Gardening Needs Since 1929 Come Shop With Us!
Large or Small, I Sell Them All! Dreaming of Fabulous City Living? Let’s Make It Happen!
SUZY STONE Mobile:540.847.0630 Office: 540-898-2900 suzystone22@gmail.com C21redwood.com
6
June 2018
Front porch fredericksburg
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
7
On the Trails
How Does A Master Gardener Grow? King George Master Gardeners
From the Couch to the Canal: Christa Holbrook and Skyler Place
By Tina Will
The miles between Fredericksburg and King George have gotten shorter (in my view) due to the energy and hard work of our King George Master Gardeners (above) (MGACRA covers a four county area). New gardens have been installed, and landscape rejuvenation and tree and shrub pruning projects have been completed at three King George locations with great results. There are more than ten MGs living in King George and they have worked for the enjoyment and reward of seeing these well used sites renewed. Just as one enters the King George area (on Route 3 near the Fire Department) the King George Citizens Center (KGCC) hosts many meetings and events. Recently its surrounding shrubs needed some maintenance, so our new MG Kelley Gaske saw this as a great opportunity to apply her training. She offered a pruning workshop there recruiting citizens to help and teaching them proper pruning techniques at the same time. Inspired by her effort, MG Linda Kline realized the KGCC landscape needed to be rejuvenated so she recruited help from our MGs. With lots of input from the 'team,' MG Sherry Graham developed the
landscape design plan and plant list. Tim Smith, Director of King George Parks and Recreation (KGP&R) approved the plan and generous donations were received from James Madison Garden Club and the King George Garden Club. Phase 1 of the plan was completed in the Fall of 2017 with volunteer help from Rappahannock Area's Day of Caring and the following MGs: Sherry Graham, Linda Kline, Kelley Gaske, Deloris Chen, Sharon Balilea, Clara Yates, Sue Ellen Kling, Alvin Calhoun, and Glen Valdez. That's a lot of help, but many hands do make the tasks easier and more fun! Caledon State Park has a new Heritage Garden just started by MG Alvin Calhoun with help from MG Glen Valdez. This was suggested by Americorp volunteer Will Roszell for the benefit of all, but particularly for school class trips to use as an educational tool. The work started with an overgrown garden that needed to be cleaned out and replanted. Friends of Caledon contributed financial help, and a local Boy Scout designed an Eagle Scout project to clear the 60' by 20' area of the accumulated vegetation using a Bush Hog and lots of muscle power. Perennials to attract butterflies and pollinating insects have been planted
including Coreopsis, Brown Eyed Susan, Baptisia, Goldenrod, Cardinal Flower, Lupine, Yarrow, and Swamp Milkweed. Cedell Brooks, Jr Park off Route 205 (formerly Shiloh Park) is in the process of getting an updated Natural Resources Education landscape. MG Mary Ellen Green took charge of this project. A Native Plant garden is planned, and MG Sue Ellen Kling obtained internet friendly Plant Tags (Plantsmap.com) for the trees that now ring the baseball and soccer fields. An Outdoor Education Center is also part of the long-term plans that are being coordinated by Tim Smith of KGP&R, with assistance from the VA Department of Forestry, KG Extension Office, Master Naturalists, Master Gardeners, 4-H, and Scouts. Our entire Master Gardener Association as well as the citizenry they have served in King George gain inspiration from their work to bring these projects to completion. Kudos to all of them! Tina Will has volunteered with MGACRA for 13 years and lives near Ferry Farm in Stafford County. Photos by Vivian Shelton
By Kevin Brown
This month we meet local law enforcement officers and housemates Christa Holbrook (right) and Skyler Place (left), two service-oriented citizens who are making our community a better place. I asked Christa and Skyler to share "two sides of the same story" about an inspiring #optoutside adventure they recently experienced. Christa's side of the story: "Skyler and I were lounging on the couch watching crime shows on TV when I saw a Facebook post from Kevin Brown asking for a few volunteers to help clean up the Rappahannock Canal. I told Skyler "we should do that next weekend sometime" and she said "No Christa, tell him we want
to do it now". So I sent a response, but then immediately regretted my decision because we walked outside and it was FREEZING. Then Skyler told me she has only ever been in a canoe once in her life. As an avid outdoorswoman with significant experience in the water, I know how difficult it can be in a boat with a new person. We probably would have done nothing all day (though we did intend to walk the Canal Path later), but Kevin's post motivated us to get off the couch and out of the house. And you know what? We had so much fun! And Skyler wasn't too bad in the canoe after all (life vests were worn but thankfully not needed). Prior to that day, we hadn't
known each other very long. We had actually met on recently at work, and Skyler had just moved into the house. So we were strangers just getting to know each other, and this impromptu canal adventure really strengthened our relationship. Although we come from such different backgrounds, we've discovered we both enjoy getting out on the trails, with a mutual love for community, nature, animals, and people." Skyler's side of the story: "One day, while we were walking the canal and trying to spot as many turtles as we could, we witnessed some good Samaritans cleaning the canal in a canoe. A couple days later, Christa found a Facebook post about the effort to clean the canal and joined the group. It wasn't until that weekend, we were being lazy and lounging on the couch avoiding adult responsibilities like laundry and grocery shopping for the week, when Christa read me a post about "two volunteers needed this afternoon to help clean the canal". I'm pretty sure my exact words were "OMG we're two
volunteers let's do it!" Christa was more hesitant, she was going to ask to volunteer another weekend, but I convinced her they needed help now. So we scrambled to find warm/waterproof clothes and gloves, then hopped into the car to meet the other volunteers. It wasn't until we were in the car that I confessed I'd only been in a canoe one other time at 4-H Camp and we tipped the canoe. Luckily, everything went smoothly, and we had a blast helping clean up the canal and made some new friends in our community. Although Christa and I have only known each other for less than a year, she has already become a great friend. Our birthdays are a day apart, we both love crime shows/scary movies, furry creatures, and spending time outdoors on the trails." Thanks for sharing your story of community service, Christa and Skyler, and may your blossoming friendship be continually filled with outdoor fun and adventure. Kevin Brown is the administrator of the "On the Fredericksburg Va Trails�
601 LAFAYETTE BLVD
roxburyfarmgarden.com MAIN: (540) 373-9124 NURSERY: (540) 371-8802
We Have All Your Gardening Needs Since 1929 Come Shop With Us!
Large or Small, I Sell Them All! Dreaming of Fabulous City Living? Let’s Make It Happen!
SUZY STONE Mobile:540.847.0630 Office: 540-898-2900 suzystone22@gmail.com C21redwood.com
6
June 2018
Front porch fredericksburg
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
7
“I Have A Friend”
Linda Bailey
THE
FREDERICKSBURG LAMP Only Available At
true heart
The Copper Shop
By Laurie Black In honor of National Volunteer Month, the Senior Visitors Program took time to celebrate some very special people - our volunteers. In the past year, we had over 100 volunteers who gave a more than 4,000 hours of service. Each April, volunteers with over 500 hours of service are invited to a luncheon in their honor. These remarkable volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, but all use their time and talents to help the seniors in our community. Teresa Bowers, Senior Visitors Program Director, says, “Our volunteers are the true heart of the Senior Visitors Program. They give countless hours to make sure their senior client feels special and loved. We can’t provide the Senior Visitors Program without the many hours that our volunteers donate to visit lonely seniors in our community! It’s wonderful to have 17 current volunteers who have given over 500 hours! At an hour a week, that’s a lot of weeks to volunteer!” Pat Quinn attended the luncheon and he stated, “I have been volunteering with the Senior Visitors program for the past 16 years. This program is directed by a loyal and dedicated staff. As one of over a hundred volunteers, I get as much satisfaction out of this program as the seniors I spend time with. There is always a waiting list of seniors looking for a friend to talk to. Join in as a volunteer and fill that void in your life.” Therese Reiff, who was featured with her senior, Sylvia, in a previous Front Porch article in August of 2017, holds the distinction of being the longest actively matched volunteer and senior in the Program. Therese laughs that Sylvia is still keeping her on her toes. “Sylvia is my teacher and my hero. She is not afraid of new things. She lives simply, but fully.” Richard Compton is the newest member of the “500 Club.” He has been a volunteer with the Senior Visitors
8
June 2018
giving gifts to the community By Collette Caprara
371-4455 1707R Princess Anne
Behind Silk Mill Like Us on facebook
Program since 2009. Richard has visited with several different seniors over those years. He has had experiences ranging from getting together to play music to simply going for walks. “I’ve gotten more out of the program than I’ve put into it. I’ve enjoyed the people that I visit.” Maria Cofer has volunteered to visit several ladies since she started with the Senior Visitors Program in 2006. “I can tell you that it is a two way gift. I have enjoyed the many life stories I have listened to. I think this program gives the clients an opportunity to speak freely because we are not connected to previous family dynamics. I try to keep things light and love to laugh. What inspired me to volunteer was my mother. She lived in Canada while I lived and worked here. I feel I am giving back for not always being there for her. I am grateful for the people that were.” Niki Howell, volunteer since 2012, says, “This program provides a benefit to many forgotten or lonely seniors that is hard to appreciate until you experience it.” Carol Wheeler, also a volunteer since 2012, laughed with Niki and shared stories with the other volunteers about the adventures and special friendships that have developed over the years. “When we train a volunteer we watch them take on this role of providing companionship and socialization to
Front porch fredericksburg
seniors in our community. They nourish our senior clients and care about them as friendships grow! It really is a win-win for everyone!” says Teresa Bowers. If you know a senior who could benefit from having a weekly, friendly visit OR if you are ready to volunteer to be a friend to a senior, call the Senior Visitors Program at (540) 371-2704 or visit our website at mhafred.org. Laurie Black is the Administrative Assistant for the Senior Visitors Program She can be reached at mhafaa@mhafred.org
Supporting The Non-Profits Since 1997
After nearly 25 years of service in with the nature programs of Fredericksburg’s Parks and Recreation department, Linda Bailey will be moving to the Pacific Northwest this month. Throughout those years, one person was by her side for nearly a decade, her assistant Mimi Dempsey. In her words, "Linda is one of the most dedicated people I have ever met. She puts 110% into every project she takes on." Among Linda's gifts to the community is Camp Wildwood, a premiere nature camp that she created 20 years ago, which offers children an unforgettable experience of the great outdoors at an affordable price. Another treasure of her lasting legacy is the Nature Center at Motts Run Park. "Linda helped fill the nature center with her very own handmade displays and exhibits," said Dempsey. “When she wanted a puppet theater she bought the plywood and some paint and made a gorgeous handpainted, nature-themed theater with
donatelifevirginia.org dmv.virginia.gov/drivers/#organs.asp
several windows and curtains." In addition, Linda created all the trail maps of Motts Run Park, including drawings, and, with the help of her son and neighbors, actually created the trails. Among the programs and activities that Linda created to introduce children to the magic of nature at all times of day and in all seasons is the wildly popular annual Spooky Stories by the Shore, offered in the Halloween season at Motts Run Reservoir. The event included a short hike down trail lit by tiki-torches to a fire circle, where Linda, Mimi, and a host of volunteered played the role of various goblins and witches. "There were few ideas Linda could not employ and make successful. There was no telling her something could not be done. She always found a way, and lack of funding or materials never stopped her," said Mimi. "Just about anything that can be done with your hands she can do, including sewing, knitting, and crocheting. And she does not hesitate to use power tools to complete a repair or project at Motts or even in the office if necessary. When a suggestion for a campout program came her way, Linda started an annual Family Campout at Motts Run. She took folks backpacking on the river, and hosted large field trips for numerous schools. She even took two or three groups to hike and camp at the Boundary Waters Wilderness of Minnesota." Paula Chow of the Sierra Club credits Linda for Fredericksburg's widely popular Earth Day celebration throughout the last 15 years: "My own involvement and commitment to make the Earth Day event a true success was in large part due to Linda's drive, enthusiasm and creativity. Her style was instrumental in getting more volunteers to serve on the committee and really work hard and tirelessly on the tasks to bring the festival to its current quality." In the course of the last 20 years, I have had the privilege of interviewing Linda many, many times for articles that I wrote about children’s activities and events. That relationship eventually grew
into a friendship. Several times, I would come to her office and mimic a bird call I had heard from the ravine behind our house and she would immediately identify the type it was. I began to realize how much she authentically loved nature and all that it brought to her life—to the point when even a broken ankle couldn’t stop her from “hiking” the Heritage Trail on her wheelchair. She was so knowledgeable, and she loved to share that knowledge with kids and families. Below are some nuggets of Linda’s wisdom from my notes of our interviews. On her Night Hikes: "Hiking in the woods at night is absolutely magical, especially if you stop, turn off your flashlight, and just soak up the dark and the sounds. Many people don't go into the woods at night because they consider it frightening. But the more you know, the less you fear." On her Sunset Canoe Floats: "All you see is mother nature around you and that’s all you hear. It’s a very peaceful experience. After the sun sets, we spend a little time silently floating in our canoes for a couple of minutes, maybe laying back—just listening." On the Great Outdoors: "When you fall in love with nature, your world is never the same. Every day of your life is broader and richer. Some of the most simple, smallest things can bring the most joy--just stopping and listening and smelling. I love hearing the sounds of nature at night--from owls to frogs to the occasional coyote--knowing that nature is all around us at all times of the day and night.”
Collette Caprara is a local writer & artist.
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
9
“I Have A Friend”
Linda Bailey
THE
FREDERICKSBURG LAMP Only Available At
true heart
The Copper Shop
By Laurie Black In honor of National Volunteer Month, the Senior Visitors Program took time to celebrate some very special people - our volunteers. In the past year, we had over 100 volunteers who gave a more than 4,000 hours of service. Each April, volunteers with over 500 hours of service are invited to a luncheon in their honor. These remarkable volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, but all use their time and talents to help the seniors in our community. Teresa Bowers, Senior Visitors Program Director, says, “Our volunteers are the true heart of the Senior Visitors Program. They give countless hours to make sure their senior client feels special and loved. We can’t provide the Senior Visitors Program without the many hours that our volunteers donate to visit lonely seniors in our community! It’s wonderful to have 17 current volunteers who have given over 500 hours! At an hour a week, that’s a lot of weeks to volunteer!” Pat Quinn attended the luncheon and he stated, “I have been volunteering with the Senior Visitors program for the past 16 years. This program is directed by a loyal and dedicated staff. As one of over a hundred volunteers, I get as much satisfaction out of this program as the seniors I spend time with. There is always a waiting list of seniors looking for a friend to talk to. Join in as a volunteer and fill that void in your life.” Therese Reiff, who was featured with her senior, Sylvia, in a previous Front Porch article in August of 2017, holds the distinction of being the longest actively matched volunteer and senior in the Program. Therese laughs that Sylvia is still keeping her on her toes. “Sylvia is my teacher and my hero. She is not afraid of new things. She lives simply, but fully.” Richard Compton is the newest member of the “500 Club.” He has been a volunteer with the Senior Visitors
8
June 2018
giving gifts to the community By Collette Caprara
371-4455 1707R Princess Anne
Behind Silk Mill Like Us on facebook
Program since 2009. Richard has visited with several different seniors over those years. He has had experiences ranging from getting together to play music to simply going for walks. “I’ve gotten more out of the program than I’ve put into it. I’ve enjoyed the people that I visit.” Maria Cofer has volunteered to visit several ladies since she started with the Senior Visitors Program in 2006. “I can tell you that it is a two way gift. I have enjoyed the many life stories I have listened to. I think this program gives the clients an opportunity to speak freely because we are not connected to previous family dynamics. I try to keep things light and love to laugh. What inspired me to volunteer was my mother. She lived in Canada while I lived and worked here. I feel I am giving back for not always being there for her. I am grateful for the people that were.” Niki Howell, volunteer since 2012, says, “This program provides a benefit to many forgotten or lonely seniors that is hard to appreciate until you experience it.” Carol Wheeler, also a volunteer since 2012, laughed with Niki and shared stories with the other volunteers about the adventures and special friendships that have developed over the years. “When we train a volunteer we watch them take on this role of providing companionship and socialization to
Front porch fredericksburg
seniors in our community. They nourish our senior clients and care about them as friendships grow! It really is a win-win for everyone!” says Teresa Bowers. If you know a senior who could benefit from having a weekly, friendly visit OR if you are ready to volunteer to be a friend to a senior, call the Senior Visitors Program at (540) 371-2704 or visit our website at mhafred.org. Laurie Black is the Administrative Assistant for the Senior Visitors Program She can be reached at mhafaa@mhafred.org
Supporting The Non-Profits Since 1997
After nearly 25 years of service in with the nature programs of Fredericksburg’s Parks and Recreation department, Linda Bailey will be moving to the Pacific Northwest this month. Throughout those years, one person was by her side for nearly a decade, her assistant Mimi Dempsey. In her words, "Linda is one of the most dedicated people I have ever met. She puts 110% into every project she takes on." Among Linda's gifts to the community is Camp Wildwood, a premiere nature camp that she created 20 years ago, which offers children an unforgettable experience of the great outdoors at an affordable price. Another treasure of her lasting legacy is the Nature Center at Motts Run Park. "Linda helped fill the nature center with her very own handmade displays and exhibits," said Dempsey. “When she wanted a puppet theater she bought the plywood and some paint and made a gorgeous handpainted, nature-themed theater with
donatelifevirginia.org dmv.virginia.gov/drivers/#organs.asp
several windows and curtains." In addition, Linda created all the trail maps of Motts Run Park, including drawings, and, with the help of her son and neighbors, actually created the trails. Among the programs and activities that Linda created to introduce children to the magic of nature at all times of day and in all seasons is the wildly popular annual Spooky Stories by the Shore, offered in the Halloween season at Motts Run Reservoir. The event included a short hike down trail lit by tiki-torches to a fire circle, where Linda, Mimi, and a host of volunteered played the role of various goblins and witches. "There were few ideas Linda could not employ and make successful. There was no telling her something could not be done. She always found a way, and lack of funding or materials never stopped her," said Mimi. "Just about anything that can be done with your hands she can do, including sewing, knitting, and crocheting. And she does not hesitate to use power tools to complete a repair or project at Motts or even in the office if necessary. When a suggestion for a campout program came her way, Linda started an annual Family Campout at Motts Run. She took folks backpacking on the river, and hosted large field trips for numerous schools. She even took two or three groups to hike and camp at the Boundary Waters Wilderness of Minnesota." Paula Chow of the Sierra Club credits Linda for Fredericksburg's widely popular Earth Day celebration throughout the last 15 years: "My own involvement and commitment to make the Earth Day event a true success was in large part due to Linda's drive, enthusiasm and creativity. Her style was instrumental in getting more volunteers to serve on the committee and really work hard and tirelessly on the tasks to bring the festival to its current quality." In the course of the last 20 years, I have had the privilege of interviewing Linda many, many times for articles that I wrote about children’s activities and events. That relationship eventually grew
into a friendship. Several times, I would come to her office and mimic a bird call I had heard from the ravine behind our house and she would immediately identify the type it was. I began to realize how much she authentically loved nature and all that it brought to her life—to the point when even a broken ankle couldn’t stop her from “hiking” the Heritage Trail on her wheelchair. She was so knowledgeable, and she loved to share that knowledge with kids and families. Below are some nuggets of Linda’s wisdom from my notes of our interviews. On her Night Hikes: "Hiking in the woods at night is absolutely magical, especially if you stop, turn off your flashlight, and just soak up the dark and the sounds. Many people don't go into the woods at night because they consider it frightening. But the more you know, the less you fear." On her Sunset Canoe Floats: "All you see is mother nature around you and that’s all you hear. It’s a very peaceful experience. After the sun sets, we spend a little time silently floating in our canoes for a couple of minutes, maybe laying back—just listening." On the Great Outdoors: "When you fall in love with nature, your world is never the same. Every day of your life is broader and richer. Some of the most simple, smallest things can bring the most joy--just stopping and listening and smelling. I love hearing the sounds of nature at night--from owls to frogs to the occasional coyote--knowing that nature is all around us at all times of the day and night.”
Collette Caprara is a local writer & artist.
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
9
Barbara Taylor Hall
The Makers District THE POETRY MAN
mood & memory
- By Frank Fratoe
By Casey Alan Shaw
Barbara Taylor Hall is an awardwinning abstract painter, well-known to area art patrons.will unveil her new work in "Mood and Memory" at Art First Gallery in June.
She moved to Fredericksburg in 1985, when her husband Phil started a new job as Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty at Mary Washington College (now UMW). She was active in a vibrant art community in Blacksburg, VA, and was fortunate to find a welcoming and supportive group of artists in Fredericksburg as well. "Growing up on Maryland's Eastern Shore, I was fortunate that my mother was an artist who always encouraged my creative efforts", Barbara mused, and "I had the good fortune to attend a Johnny Johnson workshop early on, and found I liked working with acrylic paint on paper. I've been doing it ever since! “In my show, 'Mood and Memory,' each painting has its own personality, offering a glimpse into the mind of the artist. Some are serene and contemplative landscapes, while others feature geometric compositions and intense colors.
Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One
""My art journey has not been linear, but circles back, and themes have danced in and out of my work over the years. I love it when that happens!" When asked what she's best known for locally, Barbara laughs, "It's probably a toss-up between art and tennis. The both feed my soul in different ways!" Her work is included in a number of private collections and has been honored extensively in many national and local juried shows. She is a signature member of the National Watercolor Society, the Southern Watercolor Society and the Virginia Watercolor Society.
Casey Alan Shaw is a local artist and the media contact for Art First. He can bbe reached at casey@caseyshaw.com
Ladies of the Hood: Jody Ellis & Nancie Harris
BY Collette Caprara
Home Observatory As I reach out beyond dusk the clouds have disappeared to fashion a cavernous sky with nebulae light-years away who render something human. During sundown’s aftermath the fingerprints of galaxies are superimposed onto glass where skin covering my hand has touched the windowpane.
“Mystique” Barbara Taylor Hall
Barbara Taylor Hall, "Mood and Memory" Art First Gallery, 824 Caroline Street Opening Reception, June 1, 6-9 9pm Duisplay through JuLy 2
THE MAKERS' DISTRICT A magical realm within the Burg, the neighborhood near the intersection of Wolfe and Jackson Streets might appear to be quiet from the outside but it is bustling with activity, creativity, and innovation within, as artists and artisans (some acclaimed nationally and internationally) go about their work.
Constellations swarm on high piercing air to blaze again and when I glimpse about me the footprints of galaxies dance clear across the room.
Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city. He has written poems from the heart for Front Porch for the past 10 years.
The Sunken Well Tavern
Jewell Wolterman 12225 Amos Lane, Ste 204 Fredericksburg, VA 22407 540-907-0574 www.elitetitleva.com jwolterman@elitetitleva.com
Wills and Trusts Provide for Incapacity Trusts for Minor Children Wealth Preservation Trusts Avoid Probate AhearnEstateLaw.com 10
June 2018
540/371-9890
Front porch fredericksburg
Eat Well Drink Well Live Well 720 Littlepage sunkenwelltavern.com 540-370-0911
Delightful surprises continue in the Wolfe Street neighborhood behind two doors of the corner building that are thresholds to the realms of the Ladies of the Hood. The first of these is the domain aka Signora Bella (above), the of Jody Ellis--a Great Italian Equilibrist who has enchanted audiences since the 18th Century with her prowess in juggling flaming torches and Turkish swords as well as her daring feats on the slack rope and the “razor-sharp globe of death.” Jody moved into the Hood in 2002, after a journey in the performing arts that began when she was just six and danced on-stage to “Aquarius,” meriting her first mention in the local newspaper. That spark of enthusiasm for performing continued to glow and she later earned her Bachelors degree in the theater arts at Santa Clara University. While in college, she saw a small circus called the Royal
Lichenstein Quarter Ring Sidewalk Circus, and, after graduation, took the leap to join the troupe as it performed in hundreds of venues in 17 states. “We had a little stage and toured churches, schools and colleges demonstrating some circus skills and doing vaudeville sketches and stories that had some moral to it,” said Jody. “We had a miniature horse and a couple of dogs and two spider monkeys!” After a year with the Royal Lichenstein, Jody continued to hone her skills in the Dell’Arte School of Physical Theater in Humboldt County California, where she learned the arts of clowning, melodrama, mime, and mask performance. After moving to the Wolfe Street neighborhood, Jody and Mats Jerndal, another resident of the Hood, were amazed to learn that they had both attended that school, though at different times. It was during her studies at the Dell’Arte school that Jody’s alter ego Signora Bella began to crystalize. In 1990, Jody moved to the East Coast and the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation hired Signora Bella for its Grand Medley of Entertainment. Always up for more adventures, Signora Bella, later began to free-lance her performances and today, from her base in the “makers’ district” schedules appearances at events and historic sites that have included Ferry Farm, Mount Vernon, and Fredericksburg’s Market Square and Hurkamp Park, as well as a pirates’ festival in Dover, Delaware, and Shakespeare festival at Agecroft Hall in Richmond. The second Lady of the Hood is artist and art-instructor Nancie Harris (above, top right) who established the Atrium Studio at 526-2 Wolfe Street ten years ago. Nancie’s creations range from watercolor and acrylic paintings to jewelry-making and Chinese embroidery. “My studio is set up in a group of different pods for different mediums, so I can move about and create or teach without putting away and taking out all my stuff,” she said. Nancie tailors her instruction for students of all levels of experience, and, throughout the last decade, she has taught hundreds of residents of the Fredericksburg area. Nancie’s career in art began in high-school when the nuns noticed her skill as she drew portraits of other girls. They helped her to enter her work in numerous exhibits where she garnered
awards. “One year, five of my paintings were stolen from a show!” she recalls with a hint of pride. “I would say that art saved my life,” she added, “The nuns recognized my talent and made me feel like I was worth something, and I picked up the ball from there. Art helps you know yourself and nurture yourself.” Nancie is grateful to be a part of the community of mutually-supportive creators in the Wolfe Street neighborhood. “We are always there for each other and if something needs to be done we all pitch in,” she said. Jody can be contacted at SignoraBella.com and Nancie at 540 5386072 Collette Caprara is a local writer and artist.
Open Monday – Friday at 6am Open Saturday – Sunday at 7am Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner $5.00 Weekly Lunch Specials
NEW Bistro Menu! 540-373-8300 - marriott.com/fkrcy 620 Caroline St. FXBG, VA
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
11
Barbara Taylor Hall
The Makers District THE POETRY MAN
mood & memory
- By Frank Fratoe
By Casey Alan Shaw
Barbara Taylor Hall is an awardwinning abstract painter, well-known to area art patrons.will unveil her new work in "Mood and Memory" at Art First Gallery in June.
She moved to Fredericksburg in 1985, when her husband Phil started a new job as Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty at Mary Washington College (now UMW). She was active in a vibrant art community in Blacksburg, VA, and was fortunate to find a welcoming and supportive group of artists in Fredericksburg as well. "Growing up on Maryland's Eastern Shore, I was fortunate that my mother was an artist who always encouraged my creative efforts", Barbara mused, and "I had the good fortune to attend a Johnny Johnson workshop early on, and found I liked working with acrylic paint on paper. I've been doing it ever since! “In my show, 'Mood and Memory,' each painting has its own personality, offering a glimpse into the mind of the artist. Some are serene and contemplative landscapes, while others feature geometric compositions and intense colors.
Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One
""My art journey has not been linear, but circles back, and themes have danced in and out of my work over the years. I love it when that happens!" When asked what she's best known for locally, Barbara laughs, "It's probably a toss-up between art and tennis. The both feed my soul in different ways!" Her work is included in a number of private collections and has been honored extensively in many national and local juried shows. She is a signature member of the National Watercolor Society, the Southern Watercolor Society and the Virginia Watercolor Society.
Casey Alan Shaw is a local artist and the media contact for Art First. He can bbe reached at casey@caseyshaw.com
Ladies of the Hood: Jody Ellis & Nancie Harris
BY Collette Caprara
Home Observatory As I reach out beyond dusk the clouds have disappeared to fashion a cavernous sky with nebulae light-years away who render something human. During sundown’s aftermath the fingerprints of galaxies are superimposed onto glass where skin covering my hand has touched the windowpane.
“Mystique” Barbara Taylor Hall
Barbara Taylor Hall, "Mood and Memory" Art First Gallery, 824 Caroline Street Opening Reception, June 1, 6-9 9pm Duisplay through JuLy 2
THE MAKERS' DISTRICT A magical realm within the Burg, the neighborhood near the intersection of Wolfe and Jackson Streets might appear to be quiet from the outside but it is bustling with activity, creativity, and innovation within, as artists and artisans (some acclaimed nationally and internationally) go about their work.
Constellations swarm on high piercing air to blaze again and when I glimpse about me the footprints of galaxies dance clear across the room.
Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city. He has written poems from the heart for Front Porch for the past 10 years.
The Sunken Well Tavern
Jewell Wolterman 12225 Amos Lane, Ste 204 Fredericksburg, VA 22407 540-907-0574 www.elitetitleva.com jwolterman@elitetitleva.com
Wills and Trusts Provide for Incapacity Trusts for Minor Children Wealth Preservation Trusts Avoid Probate AhearnEstateLaw.com 10
June 2018
540/371-9890
Front porch fredericksburg
Eat Well Drink Well Live Well 720 Littlepage sunkenwelltavern.com 540-370-0911
Delightful surprises continue in the Wolfe Street neighborhood behind two doors of the corner building that are thresholds to the realms of the Ladies of the Hood. The first of these is the domain aka Signora Bella (above), the of Jody Ellis--a Great Italian Equilibrist who has enchanted audiences since the 18th Century with her prowess in juggling flaming torches and Turkish swords as well as her daring feats on the slack rope and the “razor-sharp globe of death.” Jody moved into the Hood in 2002, after a journey in the performing arts that began when she was just six and danced on-stage to “Aquarius,” meriting her first mention in the local newspaper. That spark of enthusiasm for performing continued to glow and she later earned her Bachelors degree in the theater arts at Santa Clara University. While in college, she saw a small circus called the Royal
Lichenstein Quarter Ring Sidewalk Circus, and, after graduation, took the leap to join the troupe as it performed in hundreds of venues in 17 states. “We had a little stage and toured churches, schools and colleges demonstrating some circus skills and doing vaudeville sketches and stories that had some moral to it,” said Jody. “We had a miniature horse and a couple of dogs and two spider monkeys!” After a year with the Royal Lichenstein, Jody continued to hone her skills in the Dell’Arte School of Physical Theater in Humboldt County California, where she learned the arts of clowning, melodrama, mime, and mask performance. After moving to the Wolfe Street neighborhood, Jody and Mats Jerndal, another resident of the Hood, were amazed to learn that they had both attended that school, though at different times. It was during her studies at the Dell’Arte school that Jody’s alter ego Signora Bella began to crystalize. In 1990, Jody moved to the East Coast and the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation hired Signora Bella for its Grand Medley of Entertainment. Always up for more adventures, Signora Bella, later began to free-lance her performances and today, from her base in the “makers’ district” schedules appearances at events and historic sites that have included Ferry Farm, Mount Vernon, and Fredericksburg’s Market Square and Hurkamp Park, as well as a pirates’ festival in Dover, Delaware, and Shakespeare festival at Agecroft Hall in Richmond. The second Lady of the Hood is artist and art-instructor Nancie Harris (above, top right) who established the Atrium Studio at 526-2 Wolfe Street ten years ago. Nancie’s creations range from watercolor and acrylic paintings to jewelry-making and Chinese embroidery. “My studio is set up in a group of different pods for different mediums, so I can move about and create or teach without putting away and taking out all my stuff,” she said. Nancie tailors her instruction for students of all levels of experience, and, throughout the last decade, she has taught hundreds of residents of the Fredericksburg area. Nancie’s career in art began in high-school when the nuns noticed her skill as she drew portraits of other girls. They helped her to enter her work in numerous exhibits where she garnered
awards. “One year, five of my paintings were stolen from a show!” she recalls with a hint of pride. “I would say that art saved my life,” she added, “The nuns recognized my talent and made me feel like I was worth something, and I picked up the ball from there. Art helps you know yourself and nurture yourself.” Nancie is grateful to be a part of the community of mutually-supportive creators in the Wolfe Street neighborhood. “We are always there for each other and if something needs to be done we all pitch in,” she said. Jody can be contacted at SignoraBella.com and Nancie at 540 5386072 Collette Caprara is a local writer and artist.
Open Monday – Friday at 6am Open Saturday – Sunday at 7am Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner $5.00 Weekly Lunch Specials
NEW Bistro Menu! 540-373-8300 - marriott.com/fkrcy 620 Caroline St. FXBG, VA
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
11
Season’s Bounty
Up On The Roof Vivify Upgrade...Sky Bar revamp
the three a’s
By Clint Manning
The City of Fredericksburg's first rooftop restaurant and bar, Vivify Burger & Lounge, (above) is planning upgrades to ensure the elements no longer determine whether their upper level remains open. Aby Bethem - co-owner of the downtown establishment with her husband, Blake - will install a new roof structure over a section of Vivify's roof deck. Bethem said that currently, the slightest drizzle forces them to close the rooftop as they are unable to properly cover the point-of-sale computers and devices at the bar without interrupting service. Patrons need not fear losing sight of the sky, however, because the proposed structure will predominantly cover the bar area to allow service to continue in the presence of light sprinkles. In addition to providing this shelter, Bethem said the construction of the roof structure should also allow them to install heaters for use during the cooler
days of Spring and Autumn, translating into almost year-round use of the popular space at 314 William Street. The Bethems are no strangers to downtown dining establishments, as they owned and operated Bistro Bethem across the street at 309 William for many years. They sold that business last year to local chef Jacqueline Hartman, who now runs The Confident Rabbit from that location. Spring has finally arrived in downtown Fredericksburg, and people can celebrate the long-overdue occurrence at two William Street rooftop restaurants/bars.
This will be the first full season for Luigi Castiglia's rooftop venture, which is called Sky Bar (above) and can comfortably seat 150 patrons. The bar took a winter hiatus and allowed Castiglia to improve the space and find a new team in the kitchen. In this regard, following a hiatus of his own, Sky Bar's head chef, James Zitz, returned to his hometown of Fredericksburg after a stint of a few years working in the Florida Keys. Zitz says the menu will feature tapas-style options that patrons can share at their tables. So pay a visit to these two destinations and the many others available in downtown Fredericksburg.. Vivify Burger & Lounge 314 William Street Castiglia Sky Bar 324 William Street Clint Manning is the Tourism Product & Event Developer for the City of Fxbg Photos courtesy of FXBG Dept of Tourism
12
June 2018
Front porch fredericksburg
By vanessa moncure
Olde Towne BUTCHER Corner of William & Charles Streets Downtown Fredericksburg 540.370.4105 www.oldetownebutcher.com Hours Monday - Saturday, 9am to 9pm; Sunday, 11am to 6pm Keith Lebor Proprietor
What would spring/summer be without the three A’s: artichokes , asparagus & avocados? I've been tapping into the spring/summer bounty in the farmer's market - . FRESH ARTICHOKE Prepare the thistle whole - have a pan ¼ filled with water and a lemon half simmering on the stove (lemon is needed as artichokes darken quickly when cut. If you'd rather steam, rub cut edges with the lemon). Cut about 1-1 ½ inches off the top of the artichoke, then cut off the stem end. Cut the sharp tips off the thistle, then place in the water and cover. Bring to a medium boil and cook until the stem end can be pierced easily with a knife, about 20 minutes. Remove from water and place stem-side up in a colander to drain. Serve warm, at room temperature or cold. You can also stuff them with a variety of fillings after removing the fuzzy choke. Peel back the center of the leaves until you can see the fuzzy center - use a long-handled spoon to scoop it out, then whole artichoke is ready to be served. Place upright on a plate, with another for the remaining bits of leaves. Starting at the bottom, pull off a leaf and run it through your teeth to eat the tender bit at the base. Keep eating until you reach your goal - the artichoke heart - which is all edible and delicious! Make a dipping sauce - like this one, which is similar to a shrimp bang-bang sauce - or dip warm veg in melted butter. DIPPING SAUCE - one part mayonnaise to one part chili sauce, with as much Sriracha sauce as desired. FRESH ASPARAGUS Green, white and purple varieties are all grown, but green is most available in the market. Wash them, then snap or cut them at the natural edge between woody and tender. Place them in a large saute pan with water to just cover, bring to a boil and boil no longer than two minutes - may be 30 seconds for the tiny
pencil asparagus. Remove from heat, drain the water and either add butter to serve hot, or plunge them into ice water to chill them and set the green color for salads or appetizers. ASPARAGUS SALAD Place chilled asparagus salad over a bed of spring salad greens. Mix together in a bowl 1 c. quartered artichoke hearts, drained and sliced 12 oz. can of hearts of palm, 1 pound of asparagus cut on the diagonal into 2" slices and ½ c. diced sweet red peppers along with enough fresh vinaigrette salad dressing to lightly cover. Can be made a day ahead of serving. AVOCADO Salad I know everyone has a version of guacamole, but I love mine garlick-y and spicy, so try this on your chips next time. MOCK GUAC Halve two avocados, remove the seed and roughly dice them in their skin before turning the avocado into a bowl. Sprinkle with several teaspoonsful of lime juice and about ½ tsp. sea salt. Then add about ¼ c. or more to taste tomatillo salsa and one or two large grated garlic cloves. Fold this into the avocados until well mixed but still chunky. Sometimes I add spring onions or some finely chopped cilantro to the mix. SEAFOOD SALAD Chop ½lb cooked shrimp (Gulf shrimp are worth the extra price - so much more flavor than farmed) and the meat of one whole 1-pound to 1 1/2pound cooked lobster, or equivalent in cooked lobster tails. Reserve ½lb jumbo lump crabmeat and set aside. Mix together one cup mayonnaise, 1 T. dijon mustard, ¼ c. ketchup, 1 tsp. Dried tarragon or 1 T. fresh, 2 tsp. Lemon juice, dash of salt, white pepper and dried mustard, 1-2 T. capers and 2 T. finely chopped green onions along with ¼ c. minced celery and ¼ c. minced sweet red peppers. Add just enough of the mayonnaise mixture to the shrimp and lobster to coat, then gently fold in the crabmeat so the lumps will remain whole. Serve seafood salad over fresh lettuces in an avocado half, garnishing with finely minced fresh parsley or a sprig of fresh tarragon. Fold everything together right before serving . Enjoy!
Vanessa is full of wonderful recipies
WELCOME TO OUR GREAT OUTDOORS It’s Beautiful ~ Night and Day!
The Soup & Taco, Etc. 813 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA
Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm Fri & Sat 11am-10pm Sun 11am - 9pm Bar open until 2am everyday
Locally Owned Irish Pub and Restaurant
Serving Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex Food and Something More!! Tuesday to Saturday 11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm
Phone: 540-899-0969 soupntaco@yahoo.com
200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738 front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
13
Season’s Bounty
Up On The Roof Vivify Upgrade...Sky Bar revamp
the three a’s
By Clint Manning
The City of Fredericksburg's first rooftop restaurant and bar, Vivify Burger & Lounge, (above) is planning upgrades to ensure the elements no longer determine whether their upper level remains open. Aby Bethem - co-owner of the downtown establishment with her husband, Blake - will install a new roof structure over a section of Vivify's roof deck. Bethem said that currently, the slightest drizzle forces them to close the rooftop as they are unable to properly cover the point-of-sale computers and devices at the bar without interrupting service. Patrons need not fear losing sight of the sky, however, because the proposed structure will predominantly cover the bar area to allow service to continue in the presence of light sprinkles. In addition to providing this shelter, Bethem said the construction of the roof structure should also allow them to install heaters for use during the cooler
days of Spring and Autumn, translating into almost year-round use of the popular space at 314 William Street. The Bethems are no strangers to downtown dining establishments, as they owned and operated Bistro Bethem across the street at 309 William for many years. They sold that business last year to local chef Jacqueline Hartman, who now runs The Confident Rabbit from that location. Spring has finally arrived in downtown Fredericksburg, and people can celebrate the long-overdue occurrence at two William Street rooftop restaurants/bars.
This will be the first full season for Luigi Castiglia's rooftop venture, which is called Sky Bar (above) and can comfortably seat 150 patrons. The bar took a winter hiatus and allowed Castiglia to improve the space and find a new team in the kitchen. In this regard, following a hiatus of his own, Sky Bar's head chef, James Zitz, returned to his hometown of Fredericksburg after a stint of a few years working in the Florida Keys. Zitz says the menu will feature tapas-style options that patrons can share at their tables. So pay a visit to these two destinations and the many others available in downtown Fredericksburg.. Vivify Burger & Lounge 314 William Street Castiglia Sky Bar 324 William Street Clint Manning is the Tourism Product & Event Developer for the City of Fxbg Photos courtesy of FXBG Dept of Tourism
12
June 2018
Front porch fredericksburg
By vanessa moncure
Olde Towne BUTCHER Corner of William & Charles Streets Downtown Fredericksburg 540.370.4105 www.oldetownebutcher.com Hours Monday - Saturday, 9am to 9pm; Sunday, 11am to 6pm Keith Lebor Proprietor
What would spring/summer be without the three A’s: artichokes , asparagus & avocados? I've been tapping into the spring/summer bounty in the farmer's market - . FRESH ARTICHOKE Prepare the thistle whole - have a pan ¼ filled with water and a lemon half simmering on the stove (lemon is needed as artichokes darken quickly when cut. If you'd rather steam, rub cut edges with the lemon). Cut about 1-1 ½ inches off the top of the artichoke, then cut off the stem end. Cut the sharp tips off the thistle, then place in the water and cover. Bring to a medium boil and cook until the stem end can be pierced easily with a knife, about 20 minutes. Remove from water and place stem-side up in a colander to drain. Serve warm, at room temperature or cold. You can also stuff them with a variety of fillings after removing the fuzzy choke. Peel back the center of the leaves until you can see the fuzzy center - use a long-handled spoon to scoop it out, then whole artichoke is ready to be served. Place upright on a plate, with another for the remaining bits of leaves. Starting at the bottom, pull off a leaf and run it through your teeth to eat the tender bit at the base. Keep eating until you reach your goal - the artichoke heart - which is all edible and delicious! Make a dipping sauce - like this one, which is similar to a shrimp bang-bang sauce - or dip warm veg in melted butter. DIPPING SAUCE - one part mayonnaise to one part chili sauce, with as much Sriracha sauce as desired. FRESH ASPARAGUS Green, white and purple varieties are all grown, but green is most available in the market. Wash them, then snap or cut them at the natural edge between woody and tender. Place them in a large saute pan with water to just cover, bring to a boil and boil no longer than two minutes - may be 30 seconds for the tiny
pencil asparagus. Remove from heat, drain the water and either add butter to serve hot, or plunge them into ice water to chill them and set the green color for salads or appetizers. ASPARAGUS SALAD Place chilled asparagus salad over a bed of spring salad greens. Mix together in a bowl 1 c. quartered artichoke hearts, drained and sliced 12 oz. can of hearts of palm, 1 pound of asparagus cut on the diagonal into 2" slices and ½ c. diced sweet red peppers along with enough fresh vinaigrette salad dressing to lightly cover. Can be made a day ahead of serving. AVOCADO Salad I know everyone has a version of guacamole, but I love mine garlick-y and spicy, so try this on your chips next time. MOCK GUAC Halve two avocados, remove the seed and roughly dice them in their skin before turning the avocado into a bowl. Sprinkle with several teaspoonsful of lime juice and about ½ tsp. sea salt. Then add about ¼ c. or more to taste tomatillo salsa and one or two large grated garlic cloves. Fold this into the avocados until well mixed but still chunky. Sometimes I add spring onions or some finely chopped cilantro to the mix. SEAFOOD SALAD Chop ½lb cooked shrimp (Gulf shrimp are worth the extra price - so much more flavor than farmed) and the meat of one whole 1-pound to 1 1/2pound cooked lobster, or equivalent in cooked lobster tails. Reserve ½lb jumbo lump crabmeat and set aside. Mix together one cup mayonnaise, 1 T. dijon mustard, ¼ c. ketchup, 1 tsp. Dried tarragon or 1 T. fresh, 2 tsp. Lemon juice, dash of salt, white pepper and dried mustard, 1-2 T. capers and 2 T. finely chopped green onions along with ¼ c. minced celery and ¼ c. minced sweet red peppers. Add just enough of the mayonnaise mixture to the shrimp and lobster to coat, then gently fold in the crabmeat so the lumps will remain whole. Serve seafood salad over fresh lettuces in an avocado half, garnishing with finely minced fresh parsley or a sprig of fresh tarragon. Fold everything together right before serving . Enjoy!
Vanessa is full of wonderful recipies
WELCOME TO OUR GREAT OUTDOORS It’s Beautiful ~ Night and Day!
The Soup & Taco, Etc. 813 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA
Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm Fri & Sat 11am-10pm Sun 11am - 9pm Bar open until 2am everyday
Locally Owned Irish Pub and Restaurant
Serving Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex Food and Something More!! Tuesday to Saturday 11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm
Phone: 540-899-0969 soupntaco@yahoo.com
200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738 front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
13
Cooking With Kyle
Silver Spoon Fine Catering Food Is Love You Can Eat.
Prevent & reverse heart disease
by Joan M. Geisler
by james kyle snyder
That’s right. PREVENT and REVERSE. You can do that? Yes, according to Caldwell B. Esselstyn Jr., MD. In his book of the same name as the title of this article, he goes through research that outlines populations that have an all plant-based – no dairy – no added oil – no added salt diet and near zero instance of heart disease. I’m game for getting healthier with cholesterol over 300 and being able to grow into my maximum potential in terms of weight. My chest was tight. I’ve taken every test possible to include a nuclear stress test, MRIs, CT Scans, extra blood analysis…you get the idea. At the end of the day I am strong, with bad numbers and no heart disease. But I exercise and eat a low-carb highprotein diet. What was the problem? I’m fat. At 6’6” I should not be 299 pounds. More like 250 or, even better, 240. My cardiologist – yup, got one of them now, too – Dr. Jeffrey Askew, took a solid minute going over lifestyle, diet, and all that jazz. Did I mention I refuse to take pills to fix health issues – and very successfully? I follow Hippocrates who said, “Let food be your medicine.” Dr. Askew suggested that my mitochondria had stopped using the food in my bloodstream the way it used to and all the fats and cholesterols were just building up from a lack of being burned (simple explanation). He shared with me the book, its research and findings. I’m down with trying something new and avoiding insanity (doing the same thing and expecting different results). So the journey begins. I was going to weight (ha!) till the end of the article to share my personal progress and “missing meat” reflections, but why wait when talking about weight? I still want a steak occasionally – probably less than monthly. In two months, I was able to drop 80 points off my cholesterol and shave 40
14
June 2018
pounds without being hungry or having cravings. Proof is in the pudding. So what does all this mean? I’m in. It helps that Mitzi is amazing and jumped on the wagon too. The actual research part of the book is relatively short—126 of the over 290 pages. It’s an easy read too. The rest of the book is filled with delicious recipes to get you started on a successful transition to a healthier, longer, better lifestyle. Deviled Potatoes So how do I now make Deviled Potatoes? Pretty easily actually—I modified a couple of recipes in the book. Delicious! Start by making the “Simple NTahini Hummus” recipe on page 158: 1-15 oz can of chickpeas, 2 cloves garlic chopped, zest of one lemon, 3 TBS fresh lemon juice,1 tsp low sodium tamari (a main staple in this diet), and +¼ cup of water to make your favorite consistency. I add smoked paprika and turmeric to make it a deep yellow like the “deviled” part of what we are familiar with. Now for the baby potatoes: Steam 12 baby potatoes for 20 minutes then plunge them into cold water until cooled. Using a spoon or small melon baller, remove most of the potato – you’re at a decision point now. You can mash these into some of the hummus and flavor with spices or discard. I discarded for this batch. Blend the hummus with minced scallions (leeks would be great too!) and fill each potato skin – mounding it like a deviled egg. Dust with paprika and more scallions. Super yummy and easy for a picnic. Fun to make with the kids too! So – as you see – being healthy can be simple, easy, and delicious. Be Well! Kyle Snyder appeals to your palate and your other senses when it comes to good, simple, healthy eating Edited by the protector of the well-read eye K. Jeanne Fraser
Front porch fredericksburg
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
What happens when you fall in love at 18, elope and get divorced one week later and then remarry each other again 3 years later. You end up living happily ever after. This is how Chelsi Dickman and her husband Colt started their life together. Now ten years later and 2 small boys, they live in Stafford where Colt serves in the Marines. Thank you for your service Colt. Originally from Idaho, Chelsi graduated from Boise State and worked for Wells Fargo. Following her new found love for cooking, she attended Oregon Culinary Institute. One would imagine that she has been learning to cook all her life. This is not so. “My parents never let me or my sisters in the kitchen. When I moved out of the house, I could hardly boil water.” Chelsi confesses. “I learned to make soup and served it in 90 degree weather.” The memory makes her chuckle. “Colt asked me why I was serving soup when it is so hot outside. I told him it was the only thing I could cook.” They moved to Virginia and started a family. “I took a year off from work with the baby I was not sure what I wanted to do. I did a few catering jobs and someone needed a tax form from me. I figured, shoot, might as well get an LLC and start my own catering”. That is precisely how Silver Spoons Fine Catering began. She caters custom boutique style events. She makes everything from scratch. I mean everything. I have never heard of anyone making evaporated and condensed milk. Chelsi does. She even makes marshmallows during the holiday season. What she cannot make she will find locally sourced and locally grown. “The best part of catering and the most fun,” Chelsi says, “Is to interact with the host and guest when they ask about the food. I will give out my recipes. The problem is, most of them are in my head and not written down.
“I truly love all my customers. All my work comes from word of mouth. I do repeated events year after year. The one year I missed catering a yearly event was because I was giving birth to my second son. The event coordinated gave me a pass.” Her clients love when she makes comfort foods more healthy but still very yummy. Here is one of her favorite summer recipes:
Summer Harvest Salsa 1/2 cup green bell pepper diced 1/2 cup red bell pepper diced 1/2 cup red onion diced 6 tablespoons fresh cilantro finely choppped 1 large lime juiced 1 can black beans low sodium, rinsed 1.5 cups sweet corn drained salt/pepper to taste You can contact Chelsi at silverspoonsfinecatering@gmail.com and look at her gallery of event photos on her facebook page, facebook/silverspoonsfinecatering.com Your party/event is special to you, make it memorable for your guests with the very finest and delicious cuisine.
Joan Geisler is a Habit Coach, A Behavioral Change Specialist. Visit her New Website at www.8020healthyhabits
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
15
Cooking With Kyle
Silver Spoon Fine Catering Food Is Love You Can Eat.
Prevent & reverse heart disease
by Joan M. Geisler
by james kyle snyder
That’s right. PREVENT and REVERSE. You can do that? Yes, according to Caldwell B. Esselstyn Jr., MD. In his book of the same name as the title of this article, he goes through research that outlines populations that have an all plant-based – no dairy – no added oil – no added salt diet and near zero instance of heart disease. I’m game for getting healthier with cholesterol over 300 and being able to grow into my maximum potential in terms of weight. My chest was tight. I’ve taken every test possible to include a nuclear stress test, MRIs, CT Scans, extra blood analysis…you get the idea. At the end of the day I am strong, with bad numbers and no heart disease. But I exercise and eat a low-carb highprotein diet. What was the problem? I’m fat. At 6’6” I should not be 299 pounds. More like 250 or, even better, 240. My cardiologist – yup, got one of them now, too – Dr. Jeffrey Askew, took a solid minute going over lifestyle, diet, and all that jazz. Did I mention I refuse to take pills to fix health issues – and very successfully? I follow Hippocrates who said, “Let food be your medicine.” Dr. Askew suggested that my mitochondria had stopped using the food in my bloodstream the way it used to and all the fats and cholesterols were just building up from a lack of being burned (simple explanation). He shared with me the book, its research and findings. I’m down with trying something new and avoiding insanity (doing the same thing and expecting different results). So the journey begins. I was going to weight (ha!) till the end of the article to share my personal progress and “missing meat” reflections, but why wait when talking about weight? I still want a steak occasionally – probably less than monthly. In two months, I was able to drop 80 points off my cholesterol and shave 40
14
June 2018
pounds without being hungry or having cravings. Proof is in the pudding. So what does all this mean? I’m in. It helps that Mitzi is amazing and jumped on the wagon too. The actual research part of the book is relatively short—126 of the over 290 pages. It’s an easy read too. The rest of the book is filled with delicious recipes to get you started on a successful transition to a healthier, longer, better lifestyle. Deviled Potatoes So how do I now make Deviled Potatoes? Pretty easily actually—I modified a couple of recipes in the book. Delicious! Start by making the “Simple NTahini Hummus” recipe on page 158: 1-15 oz can of chickpeas, 2 cloves garlic chopped, zest of one lemon, 3 TBS fresh lemon juice,1 tsp low sodium tamari (a main staple in this diet), and +¼ cup of water to make your favorite consistency. I add smoked paprika and turmeric to make it a deep yellow like the “deviled” part of what we are familiar with. Now for the baby potatoes: Steam 12 baby potatoes for 20 minutes then plunge them into cold water until cooled. Using a spoon or small melon baller, remove most of the potato – you’re at a decision point now. You can mash these into some of the hummus and flavor with spices or discard. I discarded for this batch. Blend the hummus with minced scallions (leeks would be great too!) and fill each potato skin – mounding it like a deviled egg. Dust with paprika and more scallions. Super yummy and easy for a picnic. Fun to make with the kids too! So – as you see – being healthy can be simple, easy, and delicious. Be Well! Kyle Snyder appeals to your palate and your other senses when it comes to good, simple, healthy eating Edited by the protector of the well-read eye K. Jeanne Fraser
Front porch fredericksburg
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
What happens when you fall in love at 18, elope and get divorced one week later and then remarry each other again 3 years later. You end up living happily ever after. This is how Chelsi Dickman and her husband Colt started their life together. Now ten years later and 2 small boys, they live in Stafford where Colt serves in the Marines. Thank you for your service Colt. Originally from Idaho, Chelsi graduated from Boise State and worked for Wells Fargo. Following her new found love for cooking, she attended Oregon Culinary Institute. One would imagine that she has been learning to cook all her life. This is not so. “My parents never let me or my sisters in the kitchen. When I moved out of the house, I could hardly boil water.” Chelsi confesses. “I learned to make soup and served it in 90 degree weather.” The memory makes her chuckle. “Colt asked me why I was serving soup when it is so hot outside. I told him it was the only thing I could cook.” They moved to Virginia and started a family. “I took a year off from work with the baby I was not sure what I wanted to do. I did a few catering jobs and someone needed a tax form from me. I figured, shoot, might as well get an LLC and start my own catering”. That is precisely how Silver Spoons Fine Catering began. She caters custom boutique style events. She makes everything from scratch. I mean everything. I have never heard of anyone making evaporated and condensed milk. Chelsi does. She even makes marshmallows during the holiday season. What she cannot make she will find locally sourced and locally grown. “The best part of catering and the most fun,” Chelsi says, “Is to interact with the host and guest when they ask about the food. I will give out my recipes. The problem is, most of them are in my head and not written down.
“I truly love all my customers. All my work comes from word of mouth. I do repeated events year after year. The one year I missed catering a yearly event was because I was giving birth to my second son. The event coordinated gave me a pass.” Her clients love when she makes comfort foods more healthy but still very yummy. Here is one of her favorite summer recipes:
Summer Harvest Salsa 1/2 cup green bell pepper diced 1/2 cup red bell pepper diced 1/2 cup red onion diced 6 tablespoons fresh cilantro finely choppped 1 large lime juiced 1 can black beans low sodium, rinsed 1.5 cups sweet corn drained salt/pepper to taste You can contact Chelsi at silverspoonsfinecatering@gmail.com and look at her gallery of event photos on her facebook page, facebook/silverspoonsfinecatering.com Your party/event is special to you, make it memorable for your guests with the very finest and delicious cuisine.
Joan Geisler is a Habit Coach, A Behavioral Change Specialist. Visit her New Website at www.8020healthyhabits
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
15
june 2018‌Fathers Day, Flag Day, .Juneteenth, First Friday, June 1 National Donut Day
FCCA Member Gallery Christine Dixon, 813 Sophia "Mood & Memory," new works by Barbara Taylor Hall @ Art First Gallery, 824 Caroline St. 6-9p Art of Cliff Satterthwaite: A Visual Story of an Artist and His Town @ Darbytown Art Studio, 6-9p, 241 Charls st Sounds of Summer Concert Series - Allen and Eddie Dickerson 7-9p, Market Square, FREE
CALENDAR of events
Red Dragon Brewery Beer & Trivia night . 1419 Pr.Anne ST
Wednesday, June 6
Spotsy Farmers Market@ Spots Regional Medical Center, produce, locally raised meat and eggs, 2:30-5pm
Live Music @ Legume, Bailey Hayes 8-10p, 715 Caroline St
Downtown Greens Garden Hours 3pm til 6:00pm Help us work the soil, pick weeds, plant saplings or bulbs, move mulch, and so much more!
Spotsyl Farmers Market @ Commuter Lot at Rt 3 West/ Gordon Rd, 8a -1pm o Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm Live Music @ Legume, .Not at Liberty, jam & rock, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St
Tuesday, June 5
Picnic in the Park, Hurkamp Park 11:30- 1:30pm , Karen Jonas
Friday, June 15
Sounds of Summer Concert Series @ FAM 7-9p. FREE, Market Square
Live Music @ Legume, Brokedown Boys, Grateful Dead style,, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St Live Music @La Petite. THE acoustic Onion, 8-10p
Saturday, June 16
Thursday, June 7
Saturday, June 2
Downtown Greens Garden Hours 9-12noon. Help us work the soil, pick weeds, plant saplings or bulbs, move mulch, and so much more!
Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm
35th Annual VA Homeschool Convention @ Richmond Convent Center, heav.org/convention.
Live Music @ Legume, Ellie James, 7-9p, 715 Caroline St
Downtown Fredericksburg Antique Car Show @ 10a-1:30p. the region's top antique automobiles on the streets of FXBG
Spotsy Farmers Market @ Comm Lot Rt 3 West/ Gordon Rd 8a -1pm open every Saturday
Happy Hour, Happy You: Women's Wellness Event @ Mason-Dixon Cafe, Stafford, 6p. .
Live Music @ Legume, Squid, reggae & rock, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St
Art in the Park at the FXBG Farmers Market @ Hurkamp Park, 9-1pm. Local artists and craftspeople share their handmade goods
Downtown Greens Garden Hours 9-12noon. Help us work the soil
"Night on Broadway" @Stafford H.S. Fine Arts Depart Info evelerja@staffordschools.net.
Invited Guests Exhibit, Brush Strokes Gallery, opening reception, 6-9p
Kids' Fishing Derby at Motts Run Reservoir 7:30a12n. FREE. (VA 'Free Fishing Weekend' - no license required!) , info:372-1086x213
$. Info
Sunken Well Trivia tonight starting at 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage
35th Annual Virginia Homeschool Convention @ Richmond Convention Center, 12n-6p. Homeschooling, or considering it? Get the information and inspiration you need! www.heav.org/convention.
Rise @PONSHOP, a showcase for local emerging artist, opening reception, 6-9p, 712 Caroline St
Yoga in the Park @ Maury Park, 8-10a. 540-371-2704
Monday, June 11
Nerd Nite @ Red Dragon Brewry, 7pm, 1419 Pr.Anne ST
Tuesday, June 12
Picnic in the Park, Hurkamp Park 11:30- 1:30pm Big Dady Shag American Revolution Round Table of FXBG @ CRRL Headquarters, 6:30-*p
Open Mic with Larry Hinkle Highmark Brewery!, 390 Kings HWY, Happy hour -6:30-10p
Red Dragon Brewery Beer & Trivia night . 1419 Pr.Anne ST
Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar.
Wednesday, June 13
Art in the Park at the FrXBG Farmers Market @ Hurkamp Park, 9a-1p. Local artists craftspeople s 7th Annual Father's Day Fest @ A. Smith Bowman Distillery, 11a-5p. The World's Best Dad Deserves World Class Bourbon! FREE. Distillery Tours, Tastings, Locl beer & wine, food trucks, Vendors games & more. Visit www.asmithbowman.com or call us at 540-373-4555 for more information! 2nd Annual Bourbon Barrel Regatta A. Smith Bowman Distillery FUN watery tradition! Individuals or teams from around the area are invited to create their own boats made from used bourbon barrels and race them in Deep Run. 12n Downtown Greens Garden Hours 9-12noon. Help us work the soil Spotsy Farmers Market @ Comm Lot at Rt3 West/ Gordon Rd, 8a -1pm Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm
12th Annual Art of Aging Expo, Fredericksburg Expo Center from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Live Music @ Legume Kingbolts, rock, 8-10p,
35th Annual Virginia Homeschool Convention @ Greater Richmond Convention Center,12n-6p.
Spotsy Farmers Market at Spotsy Regional Medical 2:30-5pm
Fathers Day
Live Music @La Petite. Adrian Duke, 8-10p
Fredericksburg Community Concert Band's Summer Concert - Visions of America @ Hurkamp Park, 7-8:30p. FREE.
Friday, June 8
Sounds of Summer Concert Series - The Duskwhales @ FAM, Market Square, 7-9p FREE Live Music @ Legume, Albino Rhino, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St Night Catfishing at Motts Run Reservoir 7p -1am.
Saturday, June 9
Sophia Street Pottery Throwdown, 10a - 5p. Join us for a celebration of FXBG Ceramic Art. Demos, musica, sales.
Sunken Well Trivia 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage
Thursday, June 14 Flag Day
Downtown Greens Garden Hours 3pm til 6:00pm ! Open Mic with Larry Hinkle Highmark Brewery!, 390 Kings HWY, Happy hour -6:30-10p Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar.
Sunday, June 17 Sunken Well Brunch 9a-2p
Tuesday, June 19
Picnic in the Park, Hurkamp Park 11:30- 1:30pm Gerry Maddox
Thursday, June 21 FXBG Photo Show, Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St. 4-8:30p
Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar.
Sunday, June 24
FXBG Photo Show, Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St. 12n -5p
Downtown Greens Garden Hours 3pm til 6:00pm
Monday, June 25
Open Mic with Larry Hinkle Highmark Brewery!, 390 Kings HWY, Happy hour -6:30-10p Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn.
Friday, June 22
FXBG Photo Show, Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St. 4-8:30p
History Camp @ Mary Washington House, Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, Rising Sun Tavern, George Washington's Ferry Farm, and Kenmore Plantation, 9-12n. week-long day camp. For rising 3rd through 6th graders (ages 8-12). Registration required. Call 540-370-0732 x24 or email hayes@gwffoundation.org
Tuesday, June 26
Live Music @ Legume, Marc Allred, reggae & rock, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St
Picnic in the Park, Hurkamp Park 11:30- 1:30pm , Becky Slam
Night Catfishing @ Motts Run Reservoir, 7p-1a. nformation call Motts Reservoir at 540-786-8989 or visit www.FredParksRec.com
Stratford Hall Grandparent/Grandchild Summer Camp @ Stratford Hall The three days of fun-filled, educational activities offer a memorable family bonding experience while participants are re-living 18th-century life on a Virginia plantation.. Overnight accomadations, meals & activitiesincluded in fee. For info on camp dates /www.stratfordhall.org/educationalresources/camps/
Saturday, June 23
Juneteenth 2018, annual celebration of the freeing of the last of the slaves 12-7pm, New City Fellowship, 200 Prince Edward St. Info: 540-4296322, Eunice Haigler Juneteenth Zumba Fest , Ron Rosner Family YMCA. 4-6pm Come join the fun filled afternoon with Great Music, Raffles and Refreshments.
Red Dragon Brewery Beer & Trivia night . 1419 Pr.Anne ST
ReWed: Wedding Resale Event @ Courthouse Community Center, 12n-4p. ReWed is a one day wedding resale event for couples to buy/sell gently used wedding decorations and wedding dresses. 75+ vendors, free admission
Spotsy Farmers Market @ Spotsy Regional Medical Center, berries, peaches, cantaloupes, tomatoes and corn and a bounty of mid-summer produce, as well as locally raised meat and eggs, delicious cookies and pastries, ice cold lemonade, sweet-salty kettle corn and more! 2:30-5pm
Wednesday, June 20
Downtown Greens Garden Hours 9-12noon.
Civil War Round Table of FXBG @ UMW Jepson Center 6-9p, Ryan Quint's "The Battle of Portland Harbor".
Travis Tritt @ Celebrate Virginia After Hours
Live Music @ Legume, The Acoustic Onion, , 7-10p, 715 Caroline St
FXBG Photo Show, Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St. 10a -5p
Sunken Well Trivia 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage
Open Mic with Larry Hinkle at Highmark Brewery!, 390 Kings HWY, Happy hour -6:30-10p
Solstice
Red Dragon Brewery Trivia night . 1419 Pr.Anne Spotsy Farmers Market at Spotsy Regional Medical 2:30-5pm
Live Music @ Legume, Jahnel Daliya rock, 8-11p, 715 Caroline St
Spotsy Farmers Market @ Comm Lot at Rt 3 West 8a -1pm Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm
Wednesday, June 27
Sunken Well Trivia tonight starting at 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage
Thursday, June 28
Live Music @ Legume, Enya Agerholm, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St Downtown Greens Garden Hours 3pm til 6:00pm Help us work the soil, pick weeds, plant saplings or bulbs, move mulch, and so much more!
Friday, June 29 Live Music Caroline St
@ Legume, Jay Nixon, 8-10p, 715
Live Music @La Petite. Wave on Wave, 8-10p
Saturday, June 30
Games in the Garden! @ Mary Washington House, 11a-2p. Stop by and enjoy games as they were in the 18th century! Spotsylvania Stars and Stripes Spectacular at the Spotsylvania Courthouse area. An .all-day event with live music on three stages, food, games, and the main event, the W.J. Vakos Fireworks Spectacular at dusk. Downtown Greens Garden Hours 9-12noon. Help us work the soil, pick weeds, plant saplings or bulbs, move mulch, and so much more! Spotsylvania Farmers Market @ Commuter Lot at Route 3 West and Gordon Road, 8a -1pm open every Saturday through December Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm Live Music @ Legume, Wylder, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St
If you are reading this 251st issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 21st year of continuous publication! If you are an advertiser, list your events. Deadline for July 2018 issue is June 20th. To submit events go to frontporchfredericksburg.com/submit
Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer
3273 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join
Front Porch on 540~479~4116 1013 Princess Anne St , FXBG 16
June 2018
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540-8 899-6 6787
fortemusicstudios.com front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
17
june 2018‌Fathers Day, Flag Day, .Juneteenth, First Friday, June 1 National Donut Day
FCCA Member Gallery Christine Dixon, 813 Sophia "Mood & Memory," new works by Barbara Taylor Hall @ Art First Gallery, 824 Caroline St. 6-9p Art of Cliff Satterthwaite: A Visual Story of an Artist and His Town @ Darbytown Art Studio, 6-9p, 241 Charls st Sounds of Summer Concert Series - Allen and Eddie Dickerson 7-9p, Market Square, FREE
CALENDAR of events
Red Dragon Brewery Beer & Trivia night . 1419 Pr.Anne ST
Wednesday, June 6
Spotsy Farmers Market@ Spots Regional Medical Center, produce, locally raised meat and eggs, 2:30-5pm
Live Music @ Legume, Bailey Hayes 8-10p, 715 Caroline St
Downtown Greens Garden Hours 3pm til 6:00pm Help us work the soil, pick weeds, plant saplings or bulbs, move mulch, and so much more!
Spotsyl Farmers Market @ Commuter Lot at Rt 3 West/ Gordon Rd, 8a -1pm o Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm Live Music @ Legume, .Not at Liberty, jam & rock, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St
Tuesday, June 5
Picnic in the Park, Hurkamp Park 11:30- 1:30pm , Karen Jonas
Friday, June 15
Sounds of Summer Concert Series @ FAM 7-9p. FREE, Market Square
Live Music @ Legume, Brokedown Boys, Grateful Dead style,, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St Live Music @La Petite. THE acoustic Onion, 8-10p
Saturday, June 16
Thursday, June 7
Saturday, June 2
Downtown Greens Garden Hours 9-12noon. Help us work the soil, pick weeds, plant saplings or bulbs, move mulch, and so much more!
Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm
35th Annual VA Homeschool Convention @ Richmond Convent Center, heav.org/convention.
Live Music @ Legume, Ellie James, 7-9p, 715 Caroline St
Downtown Fredericksburg Antique Car Show @ 10a-1:30p. the region's top antique automobiles on the streets of FXBG
Spotsy Farmers Market @ Comm Lot Rt 3 West/ Gordon Rd 8a -1pm open every Saturday
Happy Hour, Happy You: Women's Wellness Event @ Mason-Dixon Cafe, Stafford, 6p. .
Live Music @ Legume, Squid, reggae & rock, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St
Art in the Park at the FXBG Farmers Market @ Hurkamp Park, 9-1pm. Local artists and craftspeople share their handmade goods
Downtown Greens Garden Hours 9-12noon. Help us work the soil
"Night on Broadway" @Stafford H.S. Fine Arts Depart Info evelerja@staffordschools.net.
Invited Guests Exhibit, Brush Strokes Gallery, opening reception, 6-9p
Kids' Fishing Derby at Motts Run Reservoir 7:30a12n. FREE. (VA 'Free Fishing Weekend' - no license required!) , info:372-1086x213
$. Info
Sunken Well Trivia tonight starting at 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage
35th Annual Virginia Homeschool Convention @ Richmond Convention Center, 12n-6p. Homeschooling, or considering it? Get the information and inspiration you need! www.heav.org/convention.
Rise @PONSHOP, a showcase for local emerging artist, opening reception, 6-9p, 712 Caroline St
Yoga in the Park @ Maury Park, 8-10a. 540-371-2704
Monday, June 11
Nerd Nite @ Red Dragon Brewry, 7pm, 1419 Pr.Anne ST
Tuesday, June 12
Picnic in the Park, Hurkamp Park 11:30- 1:30pm Big Dady Shag American Revolution Round Table of FXBG @ CRRL Headquarters, 6:30-*p
Open Mic with Larry Hinkle Highmark Brewery!, 390 Kings HWY, Happy hour -6:30-10p
Red Dragon Brewery Beer & Trivia night . 1419 Pr.Anne ST
Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar.
Wednesday, June 13
Art in the Park at the FrXBG Farmers Market @ Hurkamp Park, 9a-1p. Local artists craftspeople s 7th Annual Father's Day Fest @ A. Smith Bowman Distillery, 11a-5p. The World's Best Dad Deserves World Class Bourbon! FREE. Distillery Tours, Tastings, Locl beer & wine, food trucks, Vendors games & more. Visit www.asmithbowman.com or call us at 540-373-4555 for more information! 2nd Annual Bourbon Barrel Regatta A. Smith Bowman Distillery FUN watery tradition! Individuals or teams from around the area are invited to create their own boats made from used bourbon barrels and race them in Deep Run. 12n Downtown Greens Garden Hours 9-12noon. Help us work the soil Spotsy Farmers Market @ Comm Lot at Rt3 West/ Gordon Rd, 8a -1pm Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm
12th Annual Art of Aging Expo, Fredericksburg Expo Center from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Live Music @ Legume Kingbolts, rock, 8-10p,
35th Annual Virginia Homeschool Convention @ Greater Richmond Convention Center,12n-6p.
Spotsy Farmers Market at Spotsy Regional Medical 2:30-5pm
Fathers Day
Live Music @La Petite. Adrian Duke, 8-10p
Fredericksburg Community Concert Band's Summer Concert - Visions of America @ Hurkamp Park, 7-8:30p. FREE.
Friday, June 8
Sounds of Summer Concert Series - The Duskwhales @ FAM, Market Square, 7-9p FREE Live Music @ Legume, Albino Rhino, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St Night Catfishing at Motts Run Reservoir 7p -1am.
Saturday, June 9
Sophia Street Pottery Throwdown, 10a - 5p. Join us for a celebration of FXBG Ceramic Art. Demos, musica, sales.
Sunken Well Trivia 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage
Thursday, June 14 Flag Day
Downtown Greens Garden Hours 3pm til 6:00pm ! Open Mic with Larry Hinkle Highmark Brewery!, 390 Kings HWY, Happy hour -6:30-10p Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar.
Sunday, June 17 Sunken Well Brunch 9a-2p
Tuesday, June 19
Picnic in the Park, Hurkamp Park 11:30- 1:30pm Gerry Maddox
Thursday, June 21 FXBG Photo Show, Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St. 4-8:30p
Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar.
Sunday, June 24
FXBG Photo Show, Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St. 12n -5p
Downtown Greens Garden Hours 3pm til 6:00pm
Monday, June 25
Open Mic with Larry Hinkle Highmark Brewery!, 390 Kings HWY, Happy hour -6:30-10p Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn.
Friday, June 22
FXBG Photo Show, Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St. 4-8:30p
History Camp @ Mary Washington House, Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, Rising Sun Tavern, George Washington's Ferry Farm, and Kenmore Plantation, 9-12n. week-long day camp. For rising 3rd through 6th graders (ages 8-12). Registration required. Call 540-370-0732 x24 or email hayes@gwffoundation.org
Tuesday, June 26
Live Music @ Legume, Marc Allred, reggae & rock, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St
Picnic in the Park, Hurkamp Park 11:30- 1:30pm , Becky Slam
Night Catfishing @ Motts Run Reservoir, 7p-1a. nformation call Motts Reservoir at 540-786-8989 or visit www.FredParksRec.com
Stratford Hall Grandparent/Grandchild Summer Camp @ Stratford Hall The three days of fun-filled, educational activities offer a memorable family bonding experience while participants are re-living 18th-century life on a Virginia plantation.. Overnight accomadations, meals & activitiesincluded in fee. For info on camp dates /www.stratfordhall.org/educationalresources/camps/
Saturday, June 23
Juneteenth 2018, annual celebration of the freeing of the last of the slaves 12-7pm, New City Fellowship, 200 Prince Edward St. Info: 540-4296322, Eunice Haigler Juneteenth Zumba Fest , Ron Rosner Family YMCA. 4-6pm Come join the fun filled afternoon with Great Music, Raffles and Refreshments.
Red Dragon Brewery Beer & Trivia night . 1419 Pr.Anne ST
ReWed: Wedding Resale Event @ Courthouse Community Center, 12n-4p. ReWed is a one day wedding resale event for couples to buy/sell gently used wedding decorations and wedding dresses. 75+ vendors, free admission
Spotsy Farmers Market @ Spotsy Regional Medical Center, berries, peaches, cantaloupes, tomatoes and corn and a bounty of mid-summer produce, as well as locally raised meat and eggs, delicious cookies and pastries, ice cold lemonade, sweet-salty kettle corn and more! 2:30-5pm
Wednesday, June 20
Downtown Greens Garden Hours 9-12noon.
Civil War Round Table of FXBG @ UMW Jepson Center 6-9p, Ryan Quint's "The Battle of Portland Harbor".
Travis Tritt @ Celebrate Virginia After Hours
Live Music @ Legume, The Acoustic Onion, , 7-10p, 715 Caroline St
FXBG Photo Show, Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St. 10a -5p
Sunken Well Trivia 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage
Open Mic with Larry Hinkle at Highmark Brewery!, 390 Kings HWY, Happy hour -6:30-10p
Solstice
Red Dragon Brewery Trivia night . 1419 Pr.Anne Spotsy Farmers Market at Spotsy Regional Medical 2:30-5pm
Live Music @ Legume, Jahnel Daliya rock, 8-11p, 715 Caroline St
Spotsy Farmers Market @ Comm Lot at Rt 3 West 8a -1pm Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm
Wednesday, June 27
Sunken Well Trivia tonight starting at 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage
Thursday, June 28
Live Music @ Legume, Enya Agerholm, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St Downtown Greens Garden Hours 3pm til 6:00pm Help us work the soil, pick weeds, plant saplings or bulbs, move mulch, and so much more!
Friday, June 29 Live Music Caroline St
@ Legume, Jay Nixon, 8-10p, 715
Live Music @La Petite. Wave on Wave, 8-10p
Saturday, June 30
Games in the Garden! @ Mary Washington House, 11a-2p. Stop by and enjoy games as they were in the 18th century! Spotsylvania Stars and Stripes Spectacular at the Spotsylvania Courthouse area. An .all-day event with live music on three stages, food, games, and the main event, the W.J. Vakos Fireworks Spectacular at dusk. Downtown Greens Garden Hours 9-12noon. Help us work the soil, pick weeds, plant saplings or bulbs, move mulch, and so much more! Spotsylvania Farmers Market @ Commuter Lot at Route 3 West and Gordon Road, 8a -1pm open every Saturday through December Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 9am-2pm Live Music @ Legume, Wylder, 8-10p, 715 Caroline St
If you are reading this 251st issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 21st year of continuous publication! If you are an advertiser, list your events. Deadline for July 2018 issue is June 20th. To submit events go to frontporchfredericksburg.com/submit
Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer
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Front Porch on 540~479~4116 1013 Princess Anne St , FXBG 16
June 2018
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June 2018
17
history’s stories
CENTRAL BATTLEFIELD TRUST By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks
DEDICATED TO: LUKE SYDNOR, AUDREY BEAZLEY, EDDIE RESIO AND JIM MERCER
Tuffy is Front Porch's resident FXBG historian
June 2018
What’s in a Song?
graduation garb
link ray
By donna mccague
Fredericksburg has been a place where many ideas were developed that has changed the course of history in our nation going back to the days of John Smith and the colonies. The fires of Revolution and the Statutes of Religious Freedom began here. Recently while attending a local Civil War event I spoke with my longtime friend Paul Scott; whose family has roots deep in the Fredericksburg community. Paul's father, mother and brother David were involved in the medical community and Paul practiced law for many years. Paul and David like myself are both retired and still active in the community, Paul is on the Board of Directors of the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust, Incorporated (CVBT). The CVBT was formed in September 1996 in Fredericksburg when the group was organized as a non-profit organization dedicated to saving sites related to the Civil War. One of the first sites saved was the school site that I once attended atop Marye's Heights known as Montfort Academy. Mary Washington College wanted to turn the area into an asphalt parking lot. Most of the site of the Southern entrenchments and artillery sites had already been obliterated by the athletic complex without any regard to preservation, along with other sites on the campus. In June 1997 the area was acquired, and just a few months later 100 acres on Route 3 at the Chancellorsville intersection (McLaws Wedge) was purchased. This was the beginning of an organization that by 2017 would be responsible for saving over 1,200 acres of land around Fredericksburg that the Union and Southern armies had occupied or fought over. Generous bequests from estates such as retired Historians Ralph Happel and Brian Pohanka have supported these efforts. The membership of the group today has members not only from Virginia but states as far west as Oregon and Washington state and Texas. We sometimes forget that the War between the States had over 750,000 casualties and of that total the Fredericksburg area would have nearly 100,000 with the battles of Fredericksburg, Salem Church, Chancellorsville, Wilderness and Spotsylvania. For over a hundred years the area did not see much change, however, with the Interstate highway system and expansion of the government, local development rapidly took over without any regards to the encampments or battlefields. At the CVBT annual meeting in April the group welcomed members from across the United States to celebrate its preservation successes. Many of the sites saved were visited by the group. Their motto is "Preserving Dirt and Grass", simply said but, WELL DONE!!! Today many developers support the efforts of the CVBT. This article reminded me to look back at my notes on Memorial Day, May 29, 1999 in my remarks. ("Today the armies come from all directions. Instead of wagons they drive bulldozers. Instead of blue or gray, they wear hard hats. Instead of muskets, they carry site plans.") The benefits of the Central Virginia Battlefield Trust are obvious, it is apparent that preserved battlefield land soon will be the only green space in the region, that is becoming densely urbanized. For information on donations or membership contact Trust P. O. Box 3417, Fredericksburg, VA 22402, or visit the website at www.cvbt.org.
18
OUR HERITAGE
Front porch fredericksburg
Fredericksburg Graduates ca. 1900 Commencement ceremonies, commonly known as graduation, have been taking place since the 12th century. Colleges and universities started forming between the 12th – 13th centuries heavily influenced by the clergy. Graduation apparel largely consisted of clerical garb because of the church’s involvement in the start of higher learning institutions. Indoor heating wasn’t around like it is today forcing many graduates to wear long robes and hoods to keep warm. Can you imagine going to school in the dank, cold buildings of medieval times? The clergy also wore a hat called the biretta which appears to be the prototype for the graduation cap of today. During the 14th - 15th century, the sophisticates of the day such as artists, humanists, and students began wearing the biretta. So the long robes evolved into the graduation gown, and the biretta evolved into the cap. It was also known as a mortar board because of its resemblance to the tool used by masons. Thus, we have the companion graduation garb of the cap and gown of today. Commencement ceremonies, once reserved for baccalaureate degrees and above, are ever present today at kindergarten, grammar schools, middle schools, and high schools. While graduation ceremonies differ around the globe, the United States is probably unique in celebrating the achievements of very young children through the post graduate level. You can even find graduation ceremonies in some preschools! The competitive nature of our culture no doubt has influenced the evolution of graduation ceremonies to a broader age group of students.
removed for parties at the family home. Today, graduates wear more casual attire under their cap and gown. The cap, or mortar board, is often painted with expressive symbols and colors. The traditional toss in the air of graduations caps was actually started by graduates at the U.S. Naval Academy in 1912. It does make it easier to find your own because of the “personalized” decorations! Many of today’s graduates are off to party with their classmates and friends at the venue of their choice. “Sorry, mom and dad, we’ll catch up with you later.”
By jon gerlach
When you enjoy a meal at Fat Boys’ Smokehouse & Burgers, or the rumbling growl of restored cars at the Fredericksburg Classic and Muscle Car Show, you might not realize what happened here. The corner of Jeff Davis Highway and Fall Hill Avenue was once the site of the Old Armory Building. Fredericksburg City Council Member Billy Withers recalls attending Milt Grant dance contests there: “it was a place where kids could go to hear music, dance and have a great time”. At one dance in 1957, a powerful sound was born that would turn American pop culture on its head. Called “Rumble”, the song profoundly influenced the great Rock & Roll artists of our time, including Pete Townsend, Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, The Beatles, and many others.
To serious aficionados of Rock & Roll, Link Wray is a household name. He and his two brothers Vernon and Doug traveled the Route 1 music circuit in the 1950s under the name “Link Wray and his Ray Men”. Born in poverty in North Carolina, the trio learned songs from their Shawnee Indian mother while she worked the cotton fields. One day a traveling carnival worker named Hambone turned Link on to playing bottleneck slide guitar. The rest is, well, history. One night at the Old Armory in 1957, someone requested a song that Link did not know. So he improvised, and banged out an instrumental the likes of which had never been heard before. The “power chord” was born, with heavy distortion and feedback. How did this happen? For the 1996 British documentary “Rumble Man”, the deeply religious Link Wray put it plain and simple:
“1957 in Fredericksburg, Virginia, my Jesus God just zapped it right into my soul, you know, and I just gave it to the kids.” The crowd went wild, demanding several encores of the raunchy sound. Knowing they were onto something, the Wrays tried recording the sound the next year. Only after using a pencil to puncture holes in his speaker cone was Link satisfied with the flapping rawness of the sound. In 1958 they recorded it under the Cadence Records label. The producer’s step-daughter named the song “Rumble”, and Link Wray was off to the races. “Rumble” has a unique distinction: it’s the only instrumental song ever banned from the airwaves. Loud, distorted, face-melting electric guitar had not yet arrived on the scene. This was the age of melodic music: think Andy Williams, Perry Como, and you get the picture. Radio stations in Boston and New York refused to play the song in 1958, fearing it would incite “juvenile delinquency” along the lines of the knife
fight that accompanied “The Rumble” piece in the Broadway musical “West Side Story”. The ban backfired: eager youth clamored to hear the new sound, and sales would reach some 4 million copies. Link Wray went on to perform his sound internationally into his 70s, passing away in 2005. Just this Spring, “Rumble” was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. When barbeque wafts through the air and muscle cars flex their immense power, remember the young man who revolutionized Rock & Roll. It changed forever how we hear music. So … what’s in a song? Well, here it’s history.
An attorney and retired archaeologist, Jon Gerlach chairs the Architectural Review Board in Fredericksburg. Painting by Jon Gerlach
The history of many of our local schools is preserved at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center. Take a look at a few of the classic graduation pictures from the archives and see how our ancestors looked in this special rite of passage. You may even find remnants of their clothing in the cedar chest in the family attic.
Donna McCague. is an active volunteer and is the Volunteer Coordinator at the Heritage Center.
Up until about the 1970s, white gloves and dresses were typically worn by girls and suits and ties for the boys. The cap and gown was worn during the commencement exercises and then
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
19
history’s stories
CENTRAL BATTLEFIELD TRUST By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks
DEDICATED TO: LUKE SYDNOR, AUDREY BEAZLEY, EDDIE RESIO AND JIM MERCER
Tuffy is Front Porch's resident FXBG historian
June 2018
What’s in a Song?
graduation garb
link ray
By donna mccague
Fredericksburg has been a place where many ideas were developed that has changed the course of history in our nation going back to the days of John Smith and the colonies. The fires of Revolution and the Statutes of Religious Freedom began here. Recently while attending a local Civil War event I spoke with my longtime friend Paul Scott; whose family has roots deep in the Fredericksburg community. Paul's father, mother and brother David were involved in the medical community and Paul practiced law for many years. Paul and David like myself are both retired and still active in the community, Paul is on the Board of Directors of the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust, Incorporated (CVBT). The CVBT was formed in September 1996 in Fredericksburg when the group was organized as a non-profit organization dedicated to saving sites related to the Civil War. One of the first sites saved was the school site that I once attended atop Marye's Heights known as Montfort Academy. Mary Washington College wanted to turn the area into an asphalt parking lot. Most of the site of the Southern entrenchments and artillery sites had already been obliterated by the athletic complex without any regard to preservation, along with other sites on the campus. In June 1997 the area was acquired, and just a few months later 100 acres on Route 3 at the Chancellorsville intersection (McLaws Wedge) was purchased. This was the beginning of an organization that by 2017 would be responsible for saving over 1,200 acres of land around Fredericksburg that the Union and Southern armies had occupied or fought over. Generous bequests from estates such as retired Historians Ralph Happel and Brian Pohanka have supported these efforts. The membership of the group today has members not only from Virginia but states as far west as Oregon and Washington state and Texas. We sometimes forget that the War between the States had over 750,000 casualties and of that total the Fredericksburg area would have nearly 100,000 with the battles of Fredericksburg, Salem Church, Chancellorsville, Wilderness and Spotsylvania. For over a hundred years the area did not see much change, however, with the Interstate highway system and expansion of the government, local development rapidly took over without any regards to the encampments or battlefields. At the CVBT annual meeting in April the group welcomed members from across the United States to celebrate its preservation successes. Many of the sites saved were visited by the group. Their motto is "Preserving Dirt and Grass", simply said but, WELL DONE!!! Today many developers support the efforts of the CVBT. This article reminded me to look back at my notes on Memorial Day, May 29, 1999 in my remarks. ("Today the armies come from all directions. Instead of wagons they drive bulldozers. Instead of blue or gray, they wear hard hats. Instead of muskets, they carry site plans.") The benefits of the Central Virginia Battlefield Trust are obvious, it is apparent that preserved battlefield land soon will be the only green space in the region, that is becoming densely urbanized. For information on donations or membership contact Trust P. O. Box 3417, Fredericksburg, VA 22402, or visit the website at www.cvbt.org.
18
OUR HERITAGE
Front porch fredericksburg
Fredericksburg Graduates ca. 1900 Commencement ceremonies, commonly known as graduation, have been taking place since the 12th century. Colleges and universities started forming between the 12th – 13th centuries heavily influenced by the clergy. Graduation apparel largely consisted of clerical garb because of the church’s involvement in the start of higher learning institutions. Indoor heating wasn’t around like it is today forcing many graduates to wear long robes and hoods to keep warm. Can you imagine going to school in the dank, cold buildings of medieval times? The clergy also wore a hat called the biretta which appears to be the prototype for the graduation cap of today. During the 14th - 15th century, the sophisticates of the day such as artists, humanists, and students began wearing the biretta. So the long robes evolved into the graduation gown, and the biretta evolved into the cap. It was also known as a mortar board because of its resemblance to the tool used by masons. Thus, we have the companion graduation garb of the cap and gown of today. Commencement ceremonies, once reserved for baccalaureate degrees and above, are ever present today at kindergarten, grammar schools, middle schools, and high schools. While graduation ceremonies differ around the globe, the United States is probably unique in celebrating the achievements of very young children through the post graduate level. You can even find graduation ceremonies in some preschools! The competitive nature of our culture no doubt has influenced the evolution of graduation ceremonies to a broader age group of students.
removed for parties at the family home. Today, graduates wear more casual attire under their cap and gown. The cap, or mortar board, is often painted with expressive symbols and colors. The traditional toss in the air of graduations caps was actually started by graduates at the U.S. Naval Academy in 1912. It does make it easier to find your own because of the “personalized” decorations! Many of today’s graduates are off to party with their classmates and friends at the venue of their choice. “Sorry, mom and dad, we’ll catch up with you later.”
By jon gerlach
When you enjoy a meal at Fat Boys’ Smokehouse & Burgers, or the rumbling growl of restored cars at the Fredericksburg Classic and Muscle Car Show, you might not realize what happened here. The corner of Jeff Davis Highway and Fall Hill Avenue was once the site of the Old Armory Building. Fredericksburg City Council Member Billy Withers recalls attending Milt Grant dance contests there: “it was a place where kids could go to hear music, dance and have a great time”. At one dance in 1957, a powerful sound was born that would turn American pop culture on its head. Called “Rumble”, the song profoundly influenced the great Rock & Roll artists of our time, including Pete Townsend, Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, The Beatles, and many others.
To serious aficionados of Rock & Roll, Link Wray is a household name. He and his two brothers Vernon and Doug traveled the Route 1 music circuit in the 1950s under the name “Link Wray and his Ray Men”. Born in poverty in North Carolina, the trio learned songs from their Shawnee Indian mother while she worked the cotton fields. One day a traveling carnival worker named Hambone turned Link on to playing bottleneck slide guitar. The rest is, well, history. One night at the Old Armory in 1957, someone requested a song that Link did not know. So he improvised, and banged out an instrumental the likes of which had never been heard before. The “power chord” was born, with heavy distortion and feedback. How did this happen? For the 1996 British documentary “Rumble Man”, the deeply religious Link Wray put it plain and simple:
“1957 in Fredericksburg, Virginia, my Jesus God just zapped it right into my soul, you know, and I just gave it to the kids.” The crowd went wild, demanding several encores of the raunchy sound. Knowing they were onto something, the Wrays tried recording the sound the next year. Only after using a pencil to puncture holes in his speaker cone was Link satisfied with the flapping rawness of the sound. In 1958 they recorded it under the Cadence Records label. The producer’s step-daughter named the song “Rumble”, and Link Wray was off to the races. “Rumble” has a unique distinction: it’s the only instrumental song ever banned from the airwaves. Loud, distorted, face-melting electric guitar had not yet arrived on the scene. This was the age of melodic music: think Andy Williams, Perry Como, and you get the picture. Radio stations in Boston and New York refused to play the song in 1958, fearing it would incite “juvenile delinquency” along the lines of the knife
fight that accompanied “The Rumble” piece in the Broadway musical “West Side Story”. The ban backfired: eager youth clamored to hear the new sound, and sales would reach some 4 million copies. Link Wray went on to perform his sound internationally into his 70s, passing away in 2005. Just this Spring, “Rumble” was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. When barbeque wafts through the air and muscle cars flex their immense power, remember the young man who revolutionized Rock & Roll. It changed forever how we hear music. So … what’s in a song? Well, here it’s history.
An attorney and retired archaeologist, Jon Gerlach chairs the Architectural Review Board in Fredericksburg. Painting by Jon Gerlach
The history of many of our local schools is preserved at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center. Take a look at a few of the classic graduation pictures from the archives and see how our ancestors looked in this special rite of passage. You may even find remnants of their clothing in the cedar chest in the family attic.
Donna McCague. is an active volunteer and is the Volunteer Coordinator at the Heritage Center.
Up until about the 1970s, white gloves and dresses were typically worn by girls and suits and ties for the boys. The cap and gown was worn during the commencement exercises and then
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
19
Senior Care don’t procrastinate - plan By Karl Karch
Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service “Your pet becomes my pet while in my care, and I care a lot!” - Lexi (540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “lexi grogan’s pet sitting service” Prices: Dogs - $15 per canine per visit Cats - $12 per feline per visit
Celebrate & Enjoy Life art of aging expo By pam lake pell
Are You... Sick & tired of being sick & tired?
Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!
Having sleep problems? Constantly clearing your throat? Hypersensitive? Panicky? Sore Neck & Back? Anxious? Depressed? Fatigued? Morning Brain Fog?
After many years of procrastination, my wife and I finally updated our will, advance medical directive, power of attorney, and a few of-llife documents. My brotherother end-o in-law breathed a sigh of relief that, as godfather, he is no longer responsible for the care of our now 40-plus year-old children (that’s how long it’s been since our last will). As adults, we know we should plan for retirement and the end of our lives. But, more often than not, individuals and families fail to plan for the stage of life that comes between retirement and end of life. Preparing for your final years is much more than saving for retirement and writing a will, advance directive, and appointing a power of attorney. Questions to answer include: How do you plan to live the remaining years of your life? Where do you want to live? What is your plan for long-tterm care should you need it? Do you know the cost of long-tterm care? Is your plan flexible to changes that might occur over time? Does your family know about your plans and where information is kept? Research conducted by Home Instead, Inc. found that more than 75% of seniors feel more comfortable and more prepared planning for their funeral than their final years of life. While 73% have a written will, only 13% have made plans for their long-term care (in-home care, assisted living, skilled nursing, or hospice care) should they need it. This gap identified a critical need for resources to help seniors and their families better plan for their remaining years. For 68% of seniors, thinking about when they can no longer care for themselves is more frightening than the idea of death. And, if they have developed a plan, less than half have discussed their plans with their adult children. However, once the fear is overcome and plans are
20
June 2018
made and discussed with loved ones, seniors felt more responsible, prepared, proactive, and smart. And, after having the conversation with their adult children, 88% of seniors said it made them feel closer to their children, a huge added benefit. To address this gap and help seniors and their families understand the steps they need to take to plan for their final years, Home Instead, Inc. has developed an education program that offers planning resources and tips. The program is called Compose Your Life SongSM because planning the remaining years of your life is like composing the final bars of your life’s song. This program offers practical tips and helps guide you on how you want to orchestrate the final years of your life. There are also conversation starters to encourage seniors and their adult children to talk to one another and explore options for care, finances, insurance, and funeral planning. So, don’t procrastinate any longer. Start your rest-of-life planning now. Visit www.ComposeYourLifeSong.com to learn more. If caregiving is causing you stress, then visit www.CaregiverStress.com for additional articles to help in your caregiving journey.
Karl Karch is a 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.
Front porch fredericksburg
How quickly the time flies. The Baby Boomers now range in age from mid 50's to mid 70's ... celebrating 40 plus years since high school and college graduations... And boy, oh boy, don't we look and feel great - and we are rewriting all of the rules of aging! The Active Adult Life Style is in full swing. Aging actively, gracefully and with fervor & dignity occurs on individual, family and community levels. On Wednesday, June 13, Partners in Aging will host the twelfth annual Art of Aging – Life Begins at 50 Expo at the Fredericksburg Expo Center from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Partners in Aging is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life as we age in the greater Fredericksburg area by providing access to resources. The Art of Aging Expo showcases the many facets of aging and the active lifestyle. Today there are approximately 70 million Baby Boomers in the United States, many of whom still have living parents. Many of us continue to work well past the age of 65; many who have retired are finding other ways to channel our energy and efforts. Some are starting second careers, spurred on by hobbies or bucket list wishes. Others are investing their time by volunteering and giving back to the community. Yet others find themselves sandwiched into caring for their children and/or grandchildren, as many navigate the duties of caregiving for their spouses and/or parents. We Baby Boomers are a loud and proud generation. We believe in sharing our opinions, making our voices heard. We are large and in charge, and intend to redefine the rules of aging. Like a fine wine, we aren’t getting old, we’re getting better. We strive to make our community a better place for the generations to come. Boomers and Seniors have a wealth of knowledge and experience that continue to shape our society. The Art of Aging Expo provides the opportunity to visit over 100 sponsors and vendors. You can discover ways to get involved, volunteer and give back, and
learn about aging wisely. You can discover ways to broaden your horizons and knowledge, whether staying local or travelling the world. There will be over fifteen short courses, on various topics, throughout the day. There will be various health screenings and demonstrations, as well. Our Platinum Sponsor, Mary Washington Healthcare, will have "Connie the Colon" onsite, for education about the importance of screening for colon cancer. Short Courses cover topics that include: Organ & Tissue Donation for Boomers & Seniors; CRRL: Your Library More than just Books; Brain Health & Brain Games; Understanding Palliative vs. Hospice Care; Yoga Practices to Manage Stress; Hands Only CPR; Rock Steady Boxing & Living Well with Parkinson's; Forgetfulness: is it normal aging or early onset Alzheimer's?; AARP's Home Fit Demos include: Dancing with Olivia; Hand and Chair Massages ; Wegmans offers Healthy Cooking & Tastings and Ask Your Pharmacist; Custom Cartz golf carts (weather permitting) Screenings include: Diabetes, Glucose and BMI by Mary Washington Healthcare; Blood Pressure and Stroke Risk by Mary Washington Healthcare and Germanna Nursing Students; Vision and Hearing by The Lions’ Club; Bone Density by Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center Remember that each day is the first day of the rest of your life. Take charge of your life to age well, successfully, and with dignity. Take advantage of the riches we have locally and give back to add more value to our community. Join us on June 13th at the Art of Aging – Life Begins at 50 Expo… learn how we can age well together. Pam Lake Pell is the Area Manager for the Community Care Program with Encompass Home Health, Vice President of Partners in Aging & Chairman of the Art of Aging Committee.
Oral System Balancing –OSBcould be just what you need Visit www.drwaynewhitley.com & watch amazing video testimonies Call for a FREE consultation Dr. Wayne Whitley 540-847-1935
Bring a little sunshine to a senior’s life! Too many seniors feel lonely and isolated.
Donate to a Cancer Organization
YOU can make a difference by volunteering to visit a senior in the Fredericksburg area. Volunteer training is provided & no special skills are required. The Senior Visitors Program is a FREE community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg.
Helping homeless children and families in City of Fredericksburg, Counties of Caroline, Stafford & Spotsylvania 540 371 0831
Visit mhafred.org or call 540-371-2704
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
21
Senior Care don’t procrastinate - plan By Karl Karch
Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service “Your pet becomes my pet while in my care, and I care a lot!” - Lexi (540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “lexi grogan’s pet sitting service” Prices: Dogs - $15 per canine per visit Cats - $12 per feline per visit
Celebrate & Enjoy Life art of aging expo By pam lake pell
Are You... Sick & tired of being sick & tired?
Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!
Having sleep problems? Constantly clearing your throat? Hypersensitive? Panicky? Sore Neck & Back? Anxious? Depressed? Fatigued? Morning Brain Fog?
After many years of procrastination, my wife and I finally updated our will, advance medical directive, power of attorney, and a few of-llife documents. My brotherother end-o in-law breathed a sigh of relief that, as godfather, he is no longer responsible for the care of our now 40-plus year-old children (that’s how long it’s been since our last will). As adults, we know we should plan for retirement and the end of our lives. But, more often than not, individuals and families fail to plan for the stage of life that comes between retirement and end of life. Preparing for your final years is much more than saving for retirement and writing a will, advance directive, and appointing a power of attorney. Questions to answer include: How do you plan to live the remaining years of your life? Where do you want to live? What is your plan for long-tterm care should you need it? Do you know the cost of long-tterm care? Is your plan flexible to changes that might occur over time? Does your family know about your plans and where information is kept? Research conducted by Home Instead, Inc. found that more than 75% of seniors feel more comfortable and more prepared planning for their funeral than their final years of life. While 73% have a written will, only 13% have made plans for their long-term care (in-home care, assisted living, skilled nursing, or hospice care) should they need it. This gap identified a critical need for resources to help seniors and their families better plan for their remaining years. For 68% of seniors, thinking about when they can no longer care for themselves is more frightening than the idea of death. And, if they have developed a plan, less than half have discussed their plans with their adult children. However, once the fear is overcome and plans are
20
June 2018
made and discussed with loved ones, seniors felt more responsible, prepared, proactive, and smart. And, after having the conversation with their adult children, 88% of seniors said it made them feel closer to their children, a huge added benefit. To address this gap and help seniors and their families understand the steps they need to take to plan for their final years, Home Instead, Inc. has developed an education program that offers planning resources and tips. The program is called Compose Your Life SongSM because planning the remaining years of your life is like composing the final bars of your life’s song. This program offers practical tips and helps guide you on how you want to orchestrate the final years of your life. There are also conversation starters to encourage seniors and their adult children to talk to one another and explore options for care, finances, insurance, and funeral planning. So, don’t procrastinate any longer. Start your rest-of-life planning now. Visit www.ComposeYourLifeSong.com to learn more. If caregiving is causing you stress, then visit www.CaregiverStress.com for additional articles to help in your caregiving journey.
Karl Karch is a 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.
Front porch fredericksburg
How quickly the time flies. The Baby Boomers now range in age from mid 50's to mid 70's ... celebrating 40 plus years since high school and college graduations... And boy, oh boy, don't we look and feel great - and we are rewriting all of the rules of aging! The Active Adult Life Style is in full swing. Aging actively, gracefully and with fervor & dignity occurs on individual, family and community levels. On Wednesday, June 13, Partners in Aging will host the twelfth annual Art of Aging – Life Begins at 50 Expo at the Fredericksburg Expo Center from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Partners in Aging is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life as we age in the greater Fredericksburg area by providing access to resources. The Art of Aging Expo showcases the many facets of aging and the active lifestyle. Today there are approximately 70 million Baby Boomers in the United States, many of whom still have living parents. Many of us continue to work well past the age of 65; many who have retired are finding other ways to channel our energy and efforts. Some are starting second careers, spurred on by hobbies or bucket list wishes. Others are investing their time by volunteering and giving back to the community. Yet others find themselves sandwiched into caring for their children and/or grandchildren, as many navigate the duties of caregiving for their spouses and/or parents. We Baby Boomers are a loud and proud generation. We believe in sharing our opinions, making our voices heard. We are large and in charge, and intend to redefine the rules of aging. Like a fine wine, we aren’t getting old, we’re getting better. We strive to make our community a better place for the generations to come. Boomers and Seniors have a wealth of knowledge and experience that continue to shape our society. The Art of Aging Expo provides the opportunity to visit over 100 sponsors and vendors. You can discover ways to get involved, volunteer and give back, and
learn about aging wisely. You can discover ways to broaden your horizons and knowledge, whether staying local or travelling the world. There will be over fifteen short courses, on various topics, throughout the day. There will be various health screenings and demonstrations, as well. Our Platinum Sponsor, Mary Washington Healthcare, will have "Connie the Colon" onsite, for education about the importance of screening for colon cancer. Short Courses cover topics that include: Organ & Tissue Donation for Boomers & Seniors; CRRL: Your Library More than just Books; Brain Health & Brain Games; Understanding Palliative vs. Hospice Care; Yoga Practices to Manage Stress; Hands Only CPR; Rock Steady Boxing & Living Well with Parkinson's; Forgetfulness: is it normal aging or early onset Alzheimer's?; AARP's Home Fit Demos include: Dancing with Olivia; Hand and Chair Massages ; Wegmans offers Healthy Cooking & Tastings and Ask Your Pharmacist; Custom Cartz golf carts (weather permitting) Screenings include: Diabetes, Glucose and BMI by Mary Washington Healthcare; Blood Pressure and Stroke Risk by Mary Washington Healthcare and Germanna Nursing Students; Vision and Hearing by The Lions’ Club; Bone Density by Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center Remember that each day is the first day of the rest of your life. Take charge of your life to age well, successfully, and with dignity. Take advantage of the riches we have locally and give back to add more value to our community. Join us on June 13th at the Art of Aging – Life Begins at 50 Expo… learn how we can age well together. Pam Lake Pell is the Area Manager for the Community Care Program with Encompass Home Health, Vice President of Partners in Aging & Chairman of the Art of Aging Committee.
Oral System Balancing –OSBcould be just what you need Visit www.drwaynewhitley.com & watch amazing video testimonies Call for a FREE consultation Dr. Wayne Whitley 540-847-1935
Bring a little sunshine to a senior’s life! Too many seniors feel lonely and isolated.
Donate to a Cancer Organization
YOU can make a difference by volunteering to visit a senior in the Fredericksburg area. Volunteer training is provided & no special skills are required. The Senior Visitors Program is a FREE community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg.
Helping homeless children and families in City of Fredericksburg, Counties of Caroline, Stafford & Spotsylvania 540 371 0831
Visit mhafred.org or call 540-371-2704
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
21
Emancipated Patients
It’s All Energy
Our Amazing Community
Favorites
Featuring: Christina Ferber
by christina ferber
By M.L. Powers
the FXBG problem By Patrick Neustatter, MD I have been getting an up-close and personal look at something that I had heard was a problem in Fredericksburg – but had never had to confront before. We have staying with us a dear friend who has fallen on hard times. The bottom line is she has nowhere to live and no money. Not to mention she is struggling with the grief and trauma of her husband having a massive heart attack and then being brain dead afterwards, so she had to make the call to “pull the plug.” We have been trying to help her find low rent housing – but that’s a bad joke. The organization for people in this position is HUD who provide residences where the rent is proportional to your income. But everywhere we have called has a 2 to 5 year waiting list, or “the list is closed” we were told repeatedly, in a not very sympathetic way. It is legitimate for me to gripe about this here as homelessness, and even the stress of looking, is stressing the hell out of this poor friend. Formal studies have come up with a litany of ill effects of the truly homeless – the kind of things causing homelessness or precipitated by it, like seizures, tuberculosis, skin infections which overall leads to an increase risk of homeless people dying. Not to mention that the homeless usually have poor access to healthcare. We get to see those lucky enough to be able to get to the Moss Clinic, and experience the challenge of treating people who have no transport and no money and are dependent on the largess of the medical community.
The Fredericksburg Problem A report by the United Way on people who are asset limited, income constrained, and employed (ALICE) shows despite working multiple jobs, an average of 39 per cent of Virginians don’t make enough to meet basic expenses. The situation in Fredericksburg is a whole lot worse. “Fifty five percent of households in the city have problems
covering rent, food, healthcare and child care” notes the report. And federally funded section 8 voucher rental assistance programs are “currently closed in all localities.” Don’t think you will get a break on private housing either. According to the Apartment List website, reported in the Free Lance-Star, rents are “well above the national average.” A two bedroom apartment for example is $1,630 versus national average of $1,160. I hear complaints from people like Mike Taggert of the Fall Hill Neighborhood Association complaining that we are being sold out to developers. He notes the change form the old days where many people were able to afford “kit houses” offered through the mail by Sears and Roebuck Co. which allowed factory workers and the like to build their own home – and often with factory arranged financing. Now, “we are the hardworking people who keep this community going” he said, but “there’s a lot of pressure on development in our neighborhood.”
A Society Wide Problem I think our friend is the victim of a national trend - the growing discrepancy between rich and poor. At the risk of overwhelming you with statistics (from Physicians for a National Health Program newsletter), it is noteworthy that the poorest 50 percent of the US population only had a 1 per cent growth in income between 1980 and 2014, whereas the top 1 percent enjoyed a 205 per cent (and the very top 0.001 per cent a 636 per cent increase). In contrast, to the good old days, (i.e. between 1946 and 1980), income for the bottom 50 per cent grew 102 per cent versus 47 percent for the top 1 per cent. The rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer. I think this is reflected in development in Fredericksburg and is what’s making affordable housing so hard to find.
It’s always more fun in the Scenter of Town!
Essential Oils Liquid Herbs Reiki Reflexology Aromatherapy Custom Blending Aroma-Therapeutic Massage Harmonic Resonance Therapy Products ~ Services ~ Classes 907 Charles Street, Downtown thescenteroftown.com 22
June 2018
Front porch fredericksburg
Summer is upon us and that means vacations, spending more time outdoors, and a little more relaxation in our lives. This month, I decided to pull out some of my favorite Eden Energy Medicine (EEM) techniques to help us relax a little more and bring some extra balance to the next few months. The following exercises help to bring a sense of calm and peace into my life, and I hope you will try one or all, and see if they do the same for you. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, the exercise Heaven Rushing In brings me back to noticing the bigger picture and gives me inspiration to move forward with more balance. Place your hands on your thighs and take a few deep breaths to ground yourself. Then on an inhale, raise your hands up and bring them together above your head. On an exhale, bring them down to a prayer position in front of your chest. On the next deep breath, open them wide to the sky above your head and stay there as long as you need to. When you are ready, bring your hands to your heart and breathe a few times knowing that all is well. Repeat this as many times as you need it. Summer is represented by Fire in the Ancient Chinese Medicine Tradition of the Five Elements. To balance the Fire Element, an easy technique is to place one hand over the Main Neurovascular Points on your forehead above your eyebrows and put the other hand on the back of your head behind your eyebrows. This will also calm any feelings of panic. Taking Down the Flame also helps to balance the Fire Element, calms emotions, helps to create a sense of wellbeing, and can also lower blood pressure if it is done regularly. Take a deep breath in and out with your hands on your thighs. On the next inhale, raise your hands on either side of your body and connect them above your head so that your fingers and thumbs meet. Bring them down to your head, touching your thumbs to the top of your head, and exhale. Inhale and bring your thumbs to the middle of your forehead, exhale. Inhale and bring your
thumbs to your heart, exhale. Inhale and bring your thumbs to your naval, exhale. On the next inhale, flatten your hands on your thighs and move them down your legs, and off your toes. Then trace your hands up the inside of your legs, finishing in the same spot you started. Another technique that you can use to find some peace is to Calm the Triple Warmer Neurovascular Points. Place your thumb, first and middle fingers in a cluster together, called a 3-finger notch. Then put those fingers at the "V" at the bottom of your throat above your collarbone. If this feels funny, you can use a flat hand over this spot. Place the other hand on the side of your face with your fingers flat at your temples. Take some deep breaths and then switch sides. This hold will also help to calm the Stomach Meridian which can be involved with any feelings of worry. These are just a few of many easy, natural techniques that can help you live a more balanced life. For more tools and tricks, visit www.itsallenergywellness.com and show yourself some love this summer. Christina Ferber is a Certified Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner. You can find out more at www.itsallenergywellness.com
ble at Availa n.com Amazo
Thank You Fredericksburg for Your Support Since 1997 Accepting New Patients Emergency Patients Welcome Participant With Most Major Insurance Plans 131 Park Hill Dr, FXBG, 22401 540-373-0602 fdadental.com
I talk to many different people in our area who are profoundly interested in positive living and ways to help each other live fulfilled lives. One such individual is Christina Ferber who writes for the Front Porch about her latest passion - Eden Energy Medicine. These articles usually describe the different techniques, and even if you are not a fan of natural remedies, they are well worth trying. When we think about the word energy, it's amazing how often we wish we had more. According to the practices that are explained in these articles, it is possible to increase your energy level with just a few simple daily exercises. Christina is one of those people who never let the dust settle before she dives into the next adventure. Over the last ten years, she has completed a Masters degree in Education and a Masters in Library Science. She then certified as a teacher and spent three years teaching intervention to a diverse group of students including gifted and learning disabled children. She started and helped organize a literary magazine with her students. One of the first experiences I learned about after meeting Christina was a trip she took to Ghana with the education department at University of Mary Washington to teach literacy techniques to teachers. She shared amazing, wonderful information about this trip. She photographed and journaled and later shared the experience with her students. She gives classes at Unity Church of Fredericksburg where she first became acquainted with Eden Energy Medicine. She lead a class on mindfulness which began a journey that has been ongoing for three years. She has travelled to Phoenix for certification classes with the Eden Energy Medicine Certification Program. She is in the third year of a four year program. Christina said there are other certified practitioners in the area, but they are not in competition, but prefer to share their knowledge and clients, depending on the needs of the individual. Christina and I talked for quite a while about the origin of Eden Energy Medicine. She explained it is a combination of ancient Chinese practices such as acupuncture, but without needles, and other techniques. It involves working with energy systems chakras, meridians, and the radiant circuits. Healing is about balancing these energies to aid in health and well-being. All the while Christina continues
to teach school, raise a teen-ager, and volunteer regularly at sports and other activities. She also helps and supports the MHAF and their walks each year including the Another Day Campaign for Suicide Prevention. She is literally an energy machine! She told me her next plan may include forest therapy, a form of healing through nature. This will be an interesting article for the future. Christina is the perfect example of a life long learner. If anyone says you can't teach an old dog new tricks, they just need to meet Christina. Check her website to learn more about Eden Energy Medicine www.itsallenergywellness.com.
Mary Lynn enjoys meeting and writing about interesting people in the 'burg
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
23
Emancipated Patients
It’s All Energy
Our Amazing Community
Favorites
Featuring: Christina Ferber
by christina ferber
By M.L. Powers
the FXBG problem By Patrick Neustatter, MD I have been getting an up-close and personal look at something that I had heard was a problem in Fredericksburg – but had never had to confront before. We have staying with us a dear friend who has fallen on hard times. The bottom line is she has nowhere to live and no money. Not to mention she is struggling with the grief and trauma of her husband having a massive heart attack and then being brain dead afterwards, so she had to make the call to “pull the plug.” We have been trying to help her find low rent housing – but that’s a bad joke. The organization for people in this position is HUD who provide residences where the rent is proportional to your income. But everywhere we have called has a 2 to 5 year waiting list, or “the list is closed” we were told repeatedly, in a not very sympathetic way. It is legitimate for me to gripe about this here as homelessness, and even the stress of looking, is stressing the hell out of this poor friend. Formal studies have come up with a litany of ill effects of the truly homeless – the kind of things causing homelessness or precipitated by it, like seizures, tuberculosis, skin infections which overall leads to an increase risk of homeless people dying. Not to mention that the homeless usually have poor access to healthcare. We get to see those lucky enough to be able to get to the Moss Clinic, and experience the challenge of treating people who have no transport and no money and are dependent on the largess of the medical community.
The Fredericksburg Problem A report by the United Way on people who are asset limited, income constrained, and employed (ALICE) shows despite working multiple jobs, an average of 39 per cent of Virginians don’t make enough to meet basic expenses. The situation in Fredericksburg is a whole lot worse. “Fifty five percent of households in the city have problems
covering rent, food, healthcare and child care” notes the report. And federally funded section 8 voucher rental assistance programs are “currently closed in all localities.” Don’t think you will get a break on private housing either. According to the Apartment List website, reported in the Free Lance-Star, rents are “well above the national average.” A two bedroom apartment for example is $1,630 versus national average of $1,160. I hear complaints from people like Mike Taggert of the Fall Hill Neighborhood Association complaining that we are being sold out to developers. He notes the change form the old days where many people were able to afford “kit houses” offered through the mail by Sears and Roebuck Co. which allowed factory workers and the like to build their own home – and often with factory arranged financing. Now, “we are the hardworking people who keep this community going” he said, but “there’s a lot of pressure on development in our neighborhood.”
A Society Wide Problem I think our friend is the victim of a national trend - the growing discrepancy between rich and poor. At the risk of overwhelming you with statistics (from Physicians for a National Health Program newsletter), it is noteworthy that the poorest 50 percent of the US population only had a 1 per cent growth in income between 1980 and 2014, whereas the top 1 percent enjoyed a 205 per cent (and the very top 0.001 per cent a 636 per cent increase). In contrast, to the good old days, (i.e. between 1946 and 1980), income for the bottom 50 per cent grew 102 per cent versus 47 percent for the top 1 per cent. The rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer. I think this is reflected in development in Fredericksburg and is what’s making affordable housing so hard to find.
It’s always more fun in the Scenter of Town!
Essential Oils Liquid Herbs Reiki Reflexology Aromatherapy Custom Blending Aroma-Therapeutic Massage Harmonic Resonance Therapy Products ~ Services ~ Classes 907 Charles Street, Downtown thescenteroftown.com 22
June 2018
Front porch fredericksburg
Summer is upon us and that means vacations, spending more time outdoors, and a little more relaxation in our lives. This month, I decided to pull out some of my favorite Eden Energy Medicine (EEM) techniques to help us relax a little more and bring some extra balance to the next few months. The following exercises help to bring a sense of calm and peace into my life, and I hope you will try one or all, and see if they do the same for you. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, the exercise Heaven Rushing In brings me back to noticing the bigger picture and gives me inspiration to move forward with more balance. Place your hands on your thighs and take a few deep breaths to ground yourself. Then on an inhale, raise your hands up and bring them together above your head. On an exhale, bring them down to a prayer position in front of your chest. On the next deep breath, open them wide to the sky above your head and stay there as long as you need to. When you are ready, bring your hands to your heart and breathe a few times knowing that all is well. Repeat this as many times as you need it. Summer is represented by Fire in the Ancient Chinese Medicine Tradition of the Five Elements. To balance the Fire Element, an easy technique is to place one hand over the Main Neurovascular Points on your forehead above your eyebrows and put the other hand on the back of your head behind your eyebrows. This will also calm any feelings of panic. Taking Down the Flame also helps to balance the Fire Element, calms emotions, helps to create a sense of wellbeing, and can also lower blood pressure if it is done regularly. Take a deep breath in and out with your hands on your thighs. On the next inhale, raise your hands on either side of your body and connect them above your head so that your fingers and thumbs meet. Bring them down to your head, touching your thumbs to the top of your head, and exhale. Inhale and bring your thumbs to the middle of your forehead, exhale. Inhale and bring your
thumbs to your heart, exhale. Inhale and bring your thumbs to your naval, exhale. On the next inhale, flatten your hands on your thighs and move them down your legs, and off your toes. Then trace your hands up the inside of your legs, finishing in the same spot you started. Another technique that you can use to find some peace is to Calm the Triple Warmer Neurovascular Points. Place your thumb, first and middle fingers in a cluster together, called a 3-finger notch. Then put those fingers at the "V" at the bottom of your throat above your collarbone. If this feels funny, you can use a flat hand over this spot. Place the other hand on the side of your face with your fingers flat at your temples. Take some deep breaths and then switch sides. This hold will also help to calm the Stomach Meridian which can be involved with any feelings of worry. These are just a few of many easy, natural techniques that can help you live a more balanced life. For more tools and tricks, visit www.itsallenergywellness.com and show yourself some love this summer. Christina Ferber is a Certified Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner. You can find out more at www.itsallenergywellness.com
ble at Availa n.com Amazo
Thank You Fredericksburg for Your Support Since 1997 Accepting New Patients Emergency Patients Welcome Participant With Most Major Insurance Plans 131 Park Hill Dr, FXBG, 22401 540-373-0602 fdadental.com
I talk to many different people in our area who are profoundly interested in positive living and ways to help each other live fulfilled lives. One such individual is Christina Ferber who writes for the Front Porch about her latest passion - Eden Energy Medicine. These articles usually describe the different techniques, and even if you are not a fan of natural remedies, they are well worth trying. When we think about the word energy, it's amazing how often we wish we had more. According to the practices that are explained in these articles, it is possible to increase your energy level with just a few simple daily exercises. Christina is one of those people who never let the dust settle before she dives into the next adventure. Over the last ten years, she has completed a Masters degree in Education and a Masters in Library Science. She then certified as a teacher and spent three years teaching intervention to a diverse group of students including gifted and learning disabled children. She started and helped organize a literary magazine with her students. One of the first experiences I learned about after meeting Christina was a trip she took to Ghana with the education department at University of Mary Washington to teach literacy techniques to teachers. She shared amazing, wonderful information about this trip. She photographed and journaled and later shared the experience with her students. She gives classes at Unity Church of Fredericksburg where she first became acquainted with Eden Energy Medicine. She lead a class on mindfulness which began a journey that has been ongoing for three years. She has travelled to Phoenix for certification classes with the Eden Energy Medicine Certification Program. She is in the third year of a four year program. Christina said there are other certified practitioners in the area, but they are not in competition, but prefer to share their knowledge and clients, depending on the needs of the individual. Christina and I talked for quite a while about the origin of Eden Energy Medicine. She explained it is a combination of ancient Chinese practices such as acupuncture, but without needles, and other techniques. It involves working with energy systems chakras, meridians, and the radiant circuits. Healing is about balancing these energies to aid in health and well-being. All the while Christina continues
to teach school, raise a teen-ager, and volunteer regularly at sports and other activities. She also helps and supports the MHAF and their walks each year including the Another Day Campaign for Suicide Prevention. She is literally an energy machine! She told me her next plan may include forest therapy, a form of healing through nature. This will be an interesting article for the future. Christina is the perfect example of a life long learner. If anyone says you can't teach an old dog new tricks, they just need to meet Christina. Check her website to learn more about Eden Energy Medicine www.itsallenergywellness.com.
Mary Lynn enjoys meeting and writing about interesting people in the 'burg
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
23
Sophia Street Pottery Throwdown Meet two of the Festival Artists By Dan Finnegan Phil moved on to establish his own business, ultimately establishing Sophia Street Studios in 1982. Eventually Phil had the good sense to marry Trista Depp and they worked together until Phil's untimely passing. Trista continues to maintain the studio at Sophia Street, the home to the Throwdown. Also in the late 1970's, Claudia Dunaway established her own pottery on
The history of pottery in Fredericksburg is a story worth the telling. In 1976, the Bicentennial year, two local families joined forces to found the Fredericksburg Pottery at the corner of Hanover Street and Sophia Street. Shortly after opening the shop, the Poudrier and Miller families hired Phil Chapman, fresh from his degree course at VCU, to be the primary potter. Eventually he was joined by Mark Hodgkinson, an English potter, and they worked together for a few years before
“Butterfly Mug”, Phyllis Handal Hanover Street. Claudia worked in town into the early 1980's before moving south, first to Florida ending in the mountains
Artists: Beverley Coates, Lynn Abbott, Penny A Parrish
Stories
of fredericksburg
win downtown gift certificate
Alexis
of North Carolina where she continues to make pottery. are joining us after their introduction to pottery through their courses at UMW. We are very lucky to have Jon McMillan and some of his students join the Throwdown again this year. We are happy to introduce you to a few more of this year's exhibitors: Jon McMillan is an Associate Professor of Ceramics and Chair of the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Mary Square Tumblers”, Jon McMillan Washington. After completing his undergraduate degree he worked as a full When Phil left the Pottery time potter before returning to graduate another new potter arrived in town, school to obtain his MFA. In addition to his Steven Summerville. Steven had recently teaching duties Jon still finds time to make graduated from Berea College in Kentucky. and exhibit his sculptural and functional He worked at the Pottery until 1983 and work both in the U.S. and abroad. he currently makes pots in Bumpass. Phyllis Handal is joining the In 1980 I was hired to run the Throwdown from La Plata, Maryland. Her Fredericksburg Pottery after completing ceramic work is inspired by the tradition my training in England. I eventually of painted pottery while working in a bought the business and continues to Chinese pottery after earning her MFA. make pots in the area. She paints her handmade pots with rich One potter often begets another, images from nature, using slips, and in that time honored way there are a underglazes and glazes. Phyllis is one of number of younger (and not so young!) several guests joining us this year. We faces that make fine work in our hope that you will join us as community. Neal Reed worked with Phil well…Demonstrations, live music, handsfor years before joining me at on opportunities and a chance to 'Support LibertyTown as it's first artist-inYour Local Potter'! residence. Misha Sanborn, Beth Sperlazza, Christina Bendo all spent time working Dan Finnegan’s pottery career began 40 years ago & is still going strong. along side these mentors. His studio is now nestled on a farm And the pottery community has where he built a two-chambered, continued to grow as folks have moved wood-fired kiln here bringing fresh new ideas about clay. Scarlett Pons and Christine LushSophia Street Pottery Throwdown, Rodriguez and Matt James have been here 10a - 5p. for a number of years now and have added Demos, Music, Sales, to the richness of our ceramic community. Kid Friendly Activities Many of these younger potters
Name This House
Alexis, 19, grew up in Fredericksburg. She has been homeless on the street for about six months after fleeing an abusive relationship. She is an only child. Her mom lives in Colorado and dad lives locally. Her dad tries to help when he can, but is not in a position to help her get off the street. She and her mom are not speaking. "She doesn't like the life choices I'm making" Alexis said. Alexis's favorite childhood memory was going to Kings Dominion. She worked there as a teenager and still likes to go there for the rides. "I brought my grandmother on the drop zone one time and she was screaming the whole way." From fourth to fifth grade she was in the choir at school. In middle school she played the flute in the band. "I like the way [music] makes me feel," she said. "It puts me at ease when I have anxiety." Sometimes being homeless can be fun she said, but a lot of times its really hard. "Sometimes I wish I could go home to have a house and other times I'm kind of glad I don't have to pay bills. It's kind
of like flipping a coin. Sometimes you get heads; Sometimes you get tails." Alexis says homelessness is much like what can be seen in the Everlast video for the song, "what its like." The video depicts the stories of several people living on the street of a busy city. It flashes between their walk on the street and a deep ocean where they are each drowning. "The beginning of the video shows what homelessness really is. These are all real stories. They happen every day to people. I'm one of those stories," she said. Alexis dreams of going to California for the sun, beach and sand. "My stepmom spent a lot of her life there. It was her death that brought me back to Virginia." She sometimes thinks about going to college. She'd like to go to a four-year college, but isn't sure she could make it. She would start with general education and then decide what to do next. "All I want to be when I grow up is happy," she said. "I like to learn. The day you stop learning is the day you start dying." Even though she is in an unstable housing situation, Alexis want to be remembered as happy and go lucky. "No matter how hard things can get it can always be better or worse," she said. "Just because I'm homeless doesn't mean that there aren't resources like Micah and the churches that want to help. If it weren't for the churches, I would probably be eating out of dumpsters and have no clothes." When people see people on the street, Alexis hopes they think of their own family. "I'm somebody's granddaughter, daughter, friend, best friend and lover." Submitted by Micah Ecumenical Ministries, a Christ-Centered Community supporting people experiencing chronic homelessness and identifying pathways to sustainable housing. Contact 540479-4116; www.dolovewalk.net; facebook
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: “The Schooler House” 1303 Caroline Street The Winner of a gift certificate from Roxbury Farm & Garden Center is Michael Kelley Your Past Glory Oh how its pains me to see you sit, so beautiful, but lonely, year after year by year. The people you met, names we all recognize, whose vision once made our city glow. All shadows now in your rooms and porches, the voices hushed by emptiness and time, down here below our college so divine. I glance through the trees at the many garage doors, round the corner they all spread, where the finest of cars once dwelled. I hope some day your windows will glow, as they did once upon a time. Until then, rest in peace Carl, and thank you many times.
“Backstage Floor UMW” ,Penny A. Parrish
Art is a Gift from the Heart Daily hours 10 to 6. Artist on site Saturdays 540.371.4099 810 Caroline Street, Downtown Fredericksburg 24
June 2018
Front porch fredericksburg
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
25
Sophia Street Pottery Throwdown Meet two of the Festival Artists By Dan Finnegan Phil moved on to establish his own business, ultimately establishing Sophia Street Studios in 1982. Eventually Phil had the good sense to marry Trista Depp and they worked together until Phil's untimely passing. Trista continues to maintain the studio at Sophia Street, the home to the Throwdown. Also in the late 1970's, Claudia Dunaway established her own pottery on
The history of pottery in Fredericksburg is a story worth the telling. In 1976, the Bicentennial year, two local families joined forces to found the Fredericksburg Pottery at the corner of Hanover Street and Sophia Street. Shortly after opening the shop, the Poudrier and Miller families hired Phil Chapman, fresh from his degree course at VCU, to be the primary potter. Eventually he was joined by Mark Hodgkinson, an English potter, and they worked together for a few years before
“Butterfly Mug”, Phyllis Handal Hanover Street. Claudia worked in town into the early 1980's before moving south, first to Florida ending in the mountains
Artists: Beverley Coates, Lynn Abbott, Penny A Parrish
Stories
of fredericksburg
win downtown gift certificate
Alexis
of North Carolina where she continues to make pottery. are joining us after their introduction to pottery through their courses at UMW. We are very lucky to have Jon McMillan and some of his students join the Throwdown again this year. We are happy to introduce you to a few more of this year's exhibitors: Jon McMillan is an Associate Professor of Ceramics and Chair of the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Mary Square Tumblers”, Jon McMillan Washington. After completing his undergraduate degree he worked as a full When Phil left the Pottery time potter before returning to graduate another new potter arrived in town, school to obtain his MFA. In addition to his Steven Summerville. Steven had recently teaching duties Jon still finds time to make graduated from Berea College in Kentucky. and exhibit his sculptural and functional He worked at the Pottery until 1983 and work both in the U.S. and abroad. he currently makes pots in Bumpass. Phyllis Handal is joining the In 1980 I was hired to run the Throwdown from La Plata, Maryland. Her Fredericksburg Pottery after completing ceramic work is inspired by the tradition my training in England. I eventually of painted pottery while working in a bought the business and continues to Chinese pottery after earning her MFA. make pots in the area. She paints her handmade pots with rich One potter often begets another, images from nature, using slips, and in that time honored way there are a underglazes and glazes. Phyllis is one of number of younger (and not so young!) several guests joining us this year. We faces that make fine work in our hope that you will join us as community. Neal Reed worked with Phil well…Demonstrations, live music, handsfor years before joining me at on opportunities and a chance to 'Support LibertyTown as it's first artist-inYour Local Potter'! residence. Misha Sanborn, Beth Sperlazza, Christina Bendo all spent time working Dan Finnegan’s pottery career began 40 years ago & is still going strong. along side these mentors. His studio is now nestled on a farm And the pottery community has where he built a two-chambered, continued to grow as folks have moved wood-fired kiln here bringing fresh new ideas about clay. Scarlett Pons and Christine LushSophia Street Pottery Throwdown, Rodriguez and Matt James have been here 10a - 5p. for a number of years now and have added Demos, Music, Sales, to the richness of our ceramic community. Kid Friendly Activities Many of these younger potters
Name This House
Alexis, 19, grew up in Fredericksburg. She has been homeless on the street for about six months after fleeing an abusive relationship. She is an only child. Her mom lives in Colorado and dad lives locally. Her dad tries to help when he can, but is not in a position to help her get off the street. She and her mom are not speaking. "She doesn't like the life choices I'm making" Alexis said. Alexis's favorite childhood memory was going to Kings Dominion. She worked there as a teenager and still likes to go there for the rides. "I brought my grandmother on the drop zone one time and she was screaming the whole way." From fourth to fifth grade she was in the choir at school. In middle school she played the flute in the band. "I like the way [music] makes me feel," she said. "It puts me at ease when I have anxiety." Sometimes being homeless can be fun she said, but a lot of times its really hard. "Sometimes I wish I could go home to have a house and other times I'm kind of glad I don't have to pay bills. It's kind
of like flipping a coin. Sometimes you get heads; Sometimes you get tails." Alexis says homelessness is much like what can be seen in the Everlast video for the song, "what its like." The video depicts the stories of several people living on the street of a busy city. It flashes between their walk on the street and a deep ocean where they are each drowning. "The beginning of the video shows what homelessness really is. These are all real stories. They happen every day to people. I'm one of those stories," she said. Alexis dreams of going to California for the sun, beach and sand. "My stepmom spent a lot of her life there. It was her death that brought me back to Virginia." She sometimes thinks about going to college. She'd like to go to a four-year college, but isn't sure she could make it. She would start with general education and then decide what to do next. "All I want to be when I grow up is happy," she said. "I like to learn. The day you stop learning is the day you start dying." Even though she is in an unstable housing situation, Alexis want to be remembered as happy and go lucky. "No matter how hard things can get it can always be better or worse," she said. "Just because I'm homeless doesn't mean that there aren't resources like Micah and the churches that want to help. If it weren't for the churches, I would probably be eating out of dumpsters and have no clothes." When people see people on the street, Alexis hopes they think of their own family. "I'm somebody's granddaughter, daughter, friend, best friend and lover." Submitted by Micah Ecumenical Ministries, a Christ-Centered Community supporting people experiencing chronic homelessness and identifying pathways to sustainable housing. Contact 540479-4116; www.dolovewalk.net; facebook
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: “The Schooler House” 1303 Caroline Street The Winner of a gift certificate from Roxbury Farm & Garden Center is Michael Kelley Your Past Glory Oh how its pains me to see you sit, so beautiful, but lonely, year after year by year. The people you met, names we all recognize, whose vision once made our city glow. All shadows now in your rooms and porches, the voices hushed by emptiness and time, down here below our college so divine. I glance through the trees at the many garage doors, round the corner they all spread, where the finest of cars once dwelled. I hope some day your windows will glow, as they did once upon a time. Until then, rest in peace Carl, and thank you many times.
“Backstage Floor UMW” ,Penny A. Parrish
Art is a Gift from the Heart Daily hours 10 to 6. Artist on site Saturdays 540.371.4099 810 Caroline Street, Downtown Fredericksburg 24
June 2018
Front porch fredericksburg
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
25
Art in the Burg
On Stage!
emerging artists.... Shutterbugs.....friends
a night on broadway
Show will win $125 and the Best Junior will win $50. It is free to come enjoy the show once it opens to the public. This year's show dates are June 21-24, at the Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal Street, Fredericksburg. Entry forms and information are available on our Club webpage Janice Downs,”Summertime”, 1st Place, fbgphotoclub.com. Fredericksburg Photo Exhibit, 2017 Questions can be addressed to fbgphoto@aol.com or by Annual Fredericksburg calling Carol Bochert at 804-840-2580. Photography Show Even if you don't enter this year, June 21-2 24, Dorothy Hart Center be sure to come to the Community Center and stroll through and enjoy the show. Time to look through your Carol Bochert is the Exhibition photos or get your camera out to capture Coordinator, FXBG that prize-winning photo for this year's Photography Club photo show. The much-anticipated Photo Show has been an annual event for 37 years. The show is sponsored by the Club, in conjunction with Parks and Rec. With the advent of digital technology, photography has become increasing popular. This show has, at times, had as many as 600+ entries. It is an ideal venue to showcase your work or to see what other photographers are doing. Your entry must be postmarked by June 8, 2018. There are numerous categories to enter: Abstract, Animals, Architecture, Birds, Digital Art, Life in Virginia, Macro/Close-up, Monochrome, Plants, Landscape, Street Photography, Portraiture, Sunrise/Sunset, Unclassified. and a Junior category for budding photographers 16 and “Her View”, Hubert Humphrey under. First place in each category @Brush Srokes Gallery wins $25, Most Popular $25. Best in
Rise at PONSHOP: A Showcase for Local Emerging Artists Rise PONSHOP, June 1-JJuly 28 2018
Invited Artists' Exhibit Brush Strokes Gallery Through July 2
PONSHOP Studio is happy to announce our premiere emerging artists exhibition, "Rise at PONSHOP". PONSHOP's thirteenth community show will feature a variety of two-dimensional and three-dimensional art by Virginia's up-and-coming artists. This new exhibit will shed light on the region's booming creative population "Rise showcases work from artists who have been working professionally for less than three years. The artists selected for this show currently pursue a career with the aspirations of making a living working in their respective media. The artwork exhibited demonstrates these artists' innovations, distinctiveness, and boldness in their individual crafts. Artwork showcased ranges from paintings and drawings to photography and sculpture. Local artists and PONSHOP “Down the Rabbitt Hole”, BR Rehberg colleagues, Margeaux Ducoing and Maddie Huddle, jury the @PONSHOP exhibition. Margeaux Ducoing is a fine artist, illustrator, and graphic Artists tend to be "drawn" to one designer with Bachelor's Degrees in another and have a unique appreciation Studio Art and Music and has a for the detail, emotion, and impressions minor in Museum Studies from the that their counterparts convey in their University of Mary Washington. works. Throughout June, the artists of Maddie Huddle is a multiBrush Strokes Gallery will feature the work disciplinary artist with a Bachelor of friends they have made through the of Fine Arts degree from Virginia years who are professionals, hobbyists, Commonwealth University's and dabblers in a variety of media. Each Communication Arts Department. has been invited to display a creation of "Rise at PONSHOP" will be open to their choice, nearly doubling the array of the public this summer for two talent featured in the gallery. months. The exhibit will run from June 1, 2018 and end on July 28, Norma Woodward is a local 2018. photographer & the media contact for Brush Strokes Gallery, 824 Caroline St. Gabriel Pons is an artist & the coowner of PONSHOP, 712 Caroline
St.
Chorus students will perform songs from beloved musicals that span the decades at the 11 th Annual “A Night on Broadway” at Stafford High School in Falmouth, Va., on June 9. The awardwinning Choir Department students will feature famous songs, including “I Feel Pretty” from “West Side Story”; “Sincerely Me” from “Dear Evan Hansen”; “Somebody’s Eyes” from “Footloose”; and “Lily’s Eyes” from “The Secret Garden.” Guests can choose the options of either dinner and show or show only. “Stafford High School choir students have the opportunity to perform and showcase their musical abilities at ‘A Night on Broadway,’ and the audience always appreciates the amount of talent right here in their own community,” said Stafford High School Choral Director Joseph Eveler. “The event is fun for the students, and the public looks forward to attending each year.” Theater and music are two of 17year-old Natalie Mullanaphy’s favorite things, and combining them is ideal. She’ll perform “Baby, Dream Your Dream” from “Sweet Charity” with Gabby Ross, 18. The two seniors have participated in “A Night
on Broadway” for the past three years. “I really look forward to the event, because it’s grown a reputation as being impressive and entertaining,” said Mullanaphy. “The students and Mr. Eveler put in hours of hard work.” She said she’ll continue her studies in theater and a musical theater concentration at Rowan University College of Performing Arts in Glassboro, N.J., this fall. Ross said her favorite aspect of the event is being able to showcase musical theater in a show that’s perfect for all ages. She believes the reason “A Night on Broadway” has become so popular is because the music is from a variety of musicals. Ross plans to study psychology at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Va., when she graduates from high school. Sophomore Ryan Humphrey and senior Lee Storm will perform “Waving Through a Window” from “Dear Evan Hansen.” Last year, Humphrey sang “Guys and Dolls.” Katelyn Pates, who is a sophomore, will perform “Everywhere That You Are” from “James and the Giant Peach” with junior Melkim Pajares. “This is my first year in choir and also the first time in ‘A Night on Broadway,’ and I’m very excited to sing my heart out,” said Pates. Guests can select dinner and show or the show only. The show starts at 7 p.m. Dinner and show tickets must be pre-purchased by emailing evelerja@staffordschools.net. Show-only tickets can be purchased at the door. Proceeds from the evening will benefit the high school’s choir program.
Night on Broadway, June 9 TKTS: evelerja@staffordschools.net. or at the door. June 2018
Front porch fredericksburg
Stories that Shine a Light on Life
metamorphosis
by lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy
Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy is president of Kruk-Mullanaphy Media Group, LLC.
26
Porch Light By lee storm
Metamorphosis is defined as a change of the form or nature of a thing or person into a completely different one, by natural or supernatural means. One of the better known species to undergo metamorphosis are caterpillars. Caterpillars reach a pivotal moment in their life where they abstain from food, hang themselves upside down and hope for the best. At some point in life, society just accepted the fact that caterpillars grow up to be butterflies, and that was the end of the conversation. At a young age, kids are told that we, too, will grow and change as time goes on. Yet, the conversation is steadily stuck in its cocoon when it comes to transgender youth. We can grow up to be however we want-except for how we actually are. I’m not here to argue about the transgender bathroom bill or transgender people in the military. I’m here to shine light on the lives of transgender youth. Roughly 150,000 American teenagers are said to be transgender, according to a study by Williams Institute at the University of California. I’m part of that 150,000, and I can tell you 150,000 of us aren’t just some freaks of nature. We’re just as human as anyone else. The 2011 National Transgender Discrimination Survey found that kids in grades K-12 who identified as transgender or gender non-conforming reported high rates of bullying and violence at school. For 31 percent of these kids and teens, harassment came at the hands of teachers and school staff, the people who should’ve protected them. To an adolescent, there’s nothing more inhumane than being denied who you are. When I came out as transgender at my school, my theater directors allowed me to audition for male roles, use the male dressing room and consistently stood up for me to other kids and adults. Because of this, I’m able to live honestly and shamelessly. I’m lucky to have these two incredible teachers. There
are students in America who have teachers who ignore their identity and go out of their way to make them feel uncomfortable. The home life of a trans teen can sometimes be more difficult due to family beliefs. According to the National Transgender Discrimination Survey, 41% of transgender participants (2,644 out of 6,450) had attempted to take their own lives. I’m part of that 41%. We aren’t trying to kill ourselves because our brains are messed up and we’re going to regret the “choices” we’ve made. We’re killing ourselves because the people who are supposed to love and care for us aren’t there to support and protect us. Trans people aren’t asking peers to advocate, understand or vote for us. We’re asking peers to respect us. The American Psychological Association states that people are more alike than different. Let’s focus on our alikeness. At home, listen and be happy that even if we are changing our bodies, we’re still the same person you’ve always known and loved. Caterpillars don’t turn into a different being when they go through metamorphosis; they just grow into a new body. Allow us to grow and spread our wings. We’re not freaks of nature or statistics. We’re not different from you. We’re your students, neighbors, kids and future. We’re human and in this together. Help us come out of our cocoons. Lee Storm will graduate from Stafford High School in June. He is in the “Stafford Players,” the high school’s theater troupe. Storm was featured in principal roles in the school’s plays and choreographed the dance numbers in “James and the Giant Peach.” He earned first place for original oratory in the Virginia High School League Forensic State Championships in March.
Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer
540~479~4116 1013 Princess Anne Street , FXBG
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
27
Art in the Burg
On Stage!
emerging artists.... Shutterbugs.....friends
a night on broadway
Show will win $125 and the Best Junior will win $50. It is free to come enjoy the show once it opens to the public. This year's show dates are June 21-24, at the Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal Street, Fredericksburg. Entry forms and information are available on our Club webpage Janice Downs,”Summertime”, 1st Place, fbgphotoclub.com. Fredericksburg Photo Exhibit, 2017 Questions can be addressed to fbgphoto@aol.com or by Annual Fredericksburg calling Carol Bochert at 804-840-2580. Photography Show Even if you don't enter this year, June 21-2 24, Dorothy Hart Center be sure to come to the Community Center and stroll through and enjoy the show. Time to look through your Carol Bochert is the Exhibition photos or get your camera out to capture Coordinator, FXBG that prize-winning photo for this year's Photography Club photo show. The much-anticipated Photo Show has been an annual event for 37 years. The show is sponsored by the Club, in conjunction with Parks and Rec. With the advent of digital technology, photography has become increasing popular. This show has, at times, had as many as 600+ entries. It is an ideal venue to showcase your work or to see what other photographers are doing. Your entry must be postmarked by June 8, 2018. There are numerous categories to enter: Abstract, Animals, Architecture, Birds, Digital Art, Life in Virginia, Macro/Close-up, Monochrome, Plants, Landscape, Street Photography, Portraiture, Sunrise/Sunset, Unclassified. and a Junior category for budding photographers 16 and “Her View”, Hubert Humphrey under. First place in each category @Brush Srokes Gallery wins $25, Most Popular $25. Best in
Rise at PONSHOP: A Showcase for Local Emerging Artists Rise PONSHOP, June 1-JJuly 28 2018
Invited Artists' Exhibit Brush Strokes Gallery Through July 2
PONSHOP Studio is happy to announce our premiere emerging artists exhibition, "Rise at PONSHOP". PONSHOP's thirteenth community show will feature a variety of two-dimensional and three-dimensional art by Virginia's up-and-coming artists. This new exhibit will shed light on the region's booming creative population "Rise showcases work from artists who have been working professionally for less than three years. The artists selected for this show currently pursue a career with the aspirations of making a living working in their respective media. The artwork exhibited demonstrates these artists' innovations, distinctiveness, and boldness in their individual crafts. Artwork showcased ranges from paintings and drawings to photography and sculpture. Local artists and PONSHOP “Down the Rabbitt Hole”, BR Rehberg colleagues, Margeaux Ducoing and Maddie Huddle, jury the @PONSHOP exhibition. Margeaux Ducoing is a fine artist, illustrator, and graphic Artists tend to be "drawn" to one designer with Bachelor's Degrees in another and have a unique appreciation Studio Art and Music and has a for the detail, emotion, and impressions minor in Museum Studies from the that their counterparts convey in their University of Mary Washington. works. Throughout June, the artists of Maddie Huddle is a multiBrush Strokes Gallery will feature the work disciplinary artist with a Bachelor of friends they have made through the of Fine Arts degree from Virginia years who are professionals, hobbyists, Commonwealth University's and dabblers in a variety of media. Each Communication Arts Department. has been invited to display a creation of "Rise at PONSHOP" will be open to their choice, nearly doubling the array of the public this summer for two talent featured in the gallery. months. The exhibit will run from June 1, 2018 and end on July 28, Norma Woodward is a local 2018. photographer & the media contact for Brush Strokes Gallery, 824 Caroline St. Gabriel Pons is an artist & the coowner of PONSHOP, 712 Caroline
St.
Chorus students will perform songs from beloved musicals that span the decades at the 11 th Annual “A Night on Broadway” at Stafford High School in Falmouth, Va., on June 9. The awardwinning Choir Department students will feature famous songs, including “I Feel Pretty” from “West Side Story”; “Sincerely Me” from “Dear Evan Hansen”; “Somebody’s Eyes” from “Footloose”; and “Lily’s Eyes” from “The Secret Garden.” Guests can choose the options of either dinner and show or show only. “Stafford High School choir students have the opportunity to perform and showcase their musical abilities at ‘A Night on Broadway,’ and the audience always appreciates the amount of talent right here in their own community,” said Stafford High School Choral Director Joseph Eveler. “The event is fun for the students, and the public looks forward to attending each year.” Theater and music are two of 17year-old Natalie Mullanaphy’s favorite things, and combining them is ideal. She’ll perform “Baby, Dream Your Dream” from “Sweet Charity” with Gabby Ross, 18. The two seniors have participated in “A Night
on Broadway” for the past three years. “I really look forward to the event, because it’s grown a reputation as being impressive and entertaining,” said Mullanaphy. “The students and Mr. Eveler put in hours of hard work.” She said she’ll continue her studies in theater and a musical theater concentration at Rowan University College of Performing Arts in Glassboro, N.J., this fall. Ross said her favorite aspect of the event is being able to showcase musical theater in a show that’s perfect for all ages. She believes the reason “A Night on Broadway” has become so popular is because the music is from a variety of musicals. Ross plans to study psychology at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Va., when she graduates from high school. Sophomore Ryan Humphrey and senior Lee Storm will perform “Waving Through a Window” from “Dear Evan Hansen.” Last year, Humphrey sang “Guys and Dolls.” Katelyn Pates, who is a sophomore, will perform “Everywhere That You Are” from “James and the Giant Peach” with junior Melkim Pajares. “This is my first year in choir and also the first time in ‘A Night on Broadway,’ and I’m very excited to sing my heart out,” said Pates. Guests can select dinner and show or the show only. The show starts at 7 p.m. Dinner and show tickets must be pre-purchased by emailing evelerja@staffordschools.net. Show-only tickets can be purchased at the door. Proceeds from the evening will benefit the high school’s choir program.
Night on Broadway, June 9 TKTS: evelerja@staffordschools.net. or at the door. June 2018
Front porch fredericksburg
Stories that Shine a Light on Life
metamorphosis
by lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy
Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy is president of Kruk-Mullanaphy Media Group, LLC.
26
Porch Light By lee storm
Metamorphosis is defined as a change of the form or nature of a thing or person into a completely different one, by natural or supernatural means. One of the better known species to undergo metamorphosis are caterpillars. Caterpillars reach a pivotal moment in their life where they abstain from food, hang themselves upside down and hope for the best. At some point in life, society just accepted the fact that caterpillars grow up to be butterflies, and that was the end of the conversation. At a young age, kids are told that we, too, will grow and change as time goes on. Yet, the conversation is steadily stuck in its cocoon when it comes to transgender youth. We can grow up to be however we want-except for how we actually are. I’m not here to argue about the transgender bathroom bill or transgender people in the military. I’m here to shine light on the lives of transgender youth. Roughly 150,000 American teenagers are said to be transgender, according to a study by Williams Institute at the University of California. I’m part of that 150,000, and I can tell you 150,000 of us aren’t just some freaks of nature. We’re just as human as anyone else. The 2011 National Transgender Discrimination Survey found that kids in grades K-12 who identified as transgender or gender non-conforming reported high rates of bullying and violence at school. For 31 percent of these kids and teens, harassment came at the hands of teachers and school staff, the people who should’ve protected them. To an adolescent, there’s nothing more inhumane than being denied who you are. When I came out as transgender at my school, my theater directors allowed me to audition for male roles, use the male dressing room and consistently stood up for me to other kids and adults. Because of this, I’m able to live honestly and shamelessly. I’m lucky to have these two incredible teachers. There
are students in America who have teachers who ignore their identity and go out of their way to make them feel uncomfortable. The home life of a trans teen can sometimes be more difficult due to family beliefs. According to the National Transgender Discrimination Survey, 41% of transgender participants (2,644 out of 6,450) had attempted to take their own lives. I’m part of that 41%. We aren’t trying to kill ourselves because our brains are messed up and we’re going to regret the “choices” we’ve made. We’re killing ourselves because the people who are supposed to love and care for us aren’t there to support and protect us. Trans people aren’t asking peers to advocate, understand or vote for us. We’re asking peers to respect us. The American Psychological Association states that people are more alike than different. Let’s focus on our alikeness. At home, listen and be happy that even if we are changing our bodies, we’re still the same person you’ve always known and loved. Caterpillars don’t turn into a different being when they go through metamorphosis; they just grow into a new body. Allow us to grow and spread our wings. We’re not freaks of nature or statistics. We’re not different from you. We’re your students, neighbors, kids and future. We’re human and in this together. Help us come out of our cocoons. Lee Storm will graduate from Stafford High School in June. He is in the “Stafford Players,” the high school’s theater troupe. Storm was featured in principal roles in the school’s plays and choreographed the dance numbers in “James and the Giant Peach.” He earned first place for original oratory in the Virginia High School League Forensic State Championships in March.
Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer
540~479~4116 1013 Princess Anne Street , FXBG
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
27
Companions spca rescue team on the job by Caitlin Daly
“Your pet becomes my pet while in my care, and I care a lot!” - Lexi (540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “lexi grogan’s pet sitting service” Prices: Dogs - $15 per canine per visit Cats - $12 per feline per visit
The morning of Wednesday, May 16, the SPCA received a desperate plea for help with a hoarding case in Southern Virginia. Upon arriving at the address, you could tell that the house had been abandoned for quite some time. There were empty bags of dog food littering the yard, as well as a lawn long overdue for a cut. The smell was noticeable almost before the home was in sight. Inside the home, there were 50+ small breed dogs living in varying
Everything Greens
Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service
newface at the garden By Sarah Perry
Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!
Downtown Greens is very excited Andy McLeod to welcome from Philadelphia to the position of Horticultural Director! Tell us a little about yourself. I am from Pennsylvania, I play guitar. I play old time, traditional music. I like to look for old and mysterious things (kinda like Sarah [Bachman, Former Horticultural Director here at Downtown Greens]). I love museums, I like the Brandywine River Museum, they have a bunch of [Andrew] Wyeth’s stuff. After I graduated from college in political science I worked for an heirloom tomato farmer then for a few other farmers in south central Pennsylvania. One of which was Northstar Orchard in Cochranville, PA, where I learned how to keep Asian pear, apple, peach and plum trees and also where I got my first experience working in a professional vegetable garden.
Old Town’s Greatest Tour 35 Monuments, Markers, & Attractions Within hours, every dog was fully vetted and had a treatment plan. Foster parents began showing up to take their dogs home for the first real night of peaceful rest in a long time. By the evening, every animal was accounted for and safe. These pups will continue to enjoy TLC until it is their turn to find their forever families. Could it be you? Stay tuned! In the mean time, please consider a financial contribution to help us care for these precious animals while
AND the Fredericksburg Battlefields Weddings Reunions Shuttles Parties Group Outings Fredericksburgtrolley.com
540-898-0737
What do you do at Downtown Greens? I am the Horticultural Director here at Downtown Greens, so I help with planning and managing the work that gets done in the upper and lower gardens by myself, the garden assistant, and our volunteers. I can also be found holding down the fort in the office on Thursday afternoons from 12:30-2:30.
degrees of squalor. One room had several dogs living inside of a mattress, while another had dogs living amongst empty bottles of Tide and Bleach. All of the animals were in some state of illness, both mental and physical. The dogs in the house were fairly easy to wrangle and get outside to safety. The SPCA Team was dedicated to get every animal possible off of this premises, and that is what they did. The van arrived back at the shelter shortly after 3pm,clouds hanging heavy in the sky.
How long have you been a part of Downtown Greens? Since the beginning of April, after moving to the ‘Burg from Phily. How do you like VA and the FXBG area so far? What are your fave places? I like Fred a lot. The history here and people’s specific knowledge about the history is pretty amazing. I love all of the parks and different beautiful places to go. George Washington’s birthplace is beautiful, breathtaking, the beach full of dead trees strewn about . It reminds me of Maine. You can find fossils and crazy looking shells, all kind of stuff. Also, Squash A Penny is the coolest place! In Fredericksburg, the old stone warehouse is pretty cool too. I went to a concert there once and Jack was telling me all about the cannonball dents in the building.
they are in our care, or choose a gift off our Amazon Wish List. or www.fredspca.org/donate. Find at www.facebook.com/fredspca
After everyone was safe inside of the facility, though a bit damp, it was time to begin the arduous task of administering vaccines and fluids, triaging illness, and dispensing medications for those fairing the worst.
28
June 2018
What is your most memorable moment in a garden?
Caitlin Daly is the Executive Director of Fredericksburg Regional SPCA
Front porch fredericksburg
Available Late June at fredericksburgwriters.com
There was a moment when I was working with Mitch on the tomato farm (Mitch was part of one of the largest communes in the US in the 70s, him and his wife are so funny) and we were
harvesting scallions and there were some that didn’t look ready to go to me, and I said “Mitch, should I worry about these little ones?” and he said, “Well, don’t worry about it, man.” Seeing and tasting a black radish right out of the soil was also pretty memorable. I didn’t grow up with the concept of eating raw foods and foraging, I learned that later on. What is your favorite thing about Downtown Greens? My favorite part of Downtown Greens so far is watching how quickly everything grows and changes, and working with different plants and mulch to design beautiful areas in the lower garden. What is your favorite plant? My favorite plants are heirloom tomato plants because they grow in so many shapes and colors and when they're finally ready to harvest they're so delicious. If you could be any animal, what would you be? If I could be any animal I would be a blue heron. What is your favorite color? My favorite color is--you guessed it -GREEN
Sarah Perry is the Executive Direstor of Downtown Greens
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
29
Companions spca rescue team on the job by Caitlin Daly
“Your pet becomes my pet while in my care, and I care a lot!” - Lexi (540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “lexi grogan’s pet sitting service” Prices: Dogs - $15 per canine per visit Cats - $12 per feline per visit
The morning of Wednesday, May 16, the SPCA received a desperate plea for help with a hoarding case in Southern Virginia. Upon arriving at the address, you could tell that the house had been abandoned for quite some time. There were empty bags of dog food littering the yard, as well as a lawn long overdue for a cut. The smell was noticeable almost before the home was in sight. Inside the home, there were 50+ small breed dogs living in varying
Everything Greens
Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service
newface at the garden By Sarah Perry
Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!
Downtown Greens is very excited Andy McLeod to welcome from Philadelphia to the position of Horticultural Director! Tell us a little about yourself. I am from Pennsylvania, I play guitar. I play old time, traditional music. I like to look for old and mysterious things (kinda like Sarah [Bachman, Former Horticultural Director here at Downtown Greens]). I love museums, I like the Brandywine River Museum, they have a bunch of [Andrew] Wyeth’s stuff. After I graduated from college in political science I worked for an heirloom tomato farmer then for a few other farmers in south central Pennsylvania. One of which was Northstar Orchard in Cochranville, PA, where I learned how to keep Asian pear, apple, peach and plum trees and also where I got my first experience working in a professional vegetable garden.
Old Town’s Greatest Tour 35 Monuments, Markers, & Attractions Within hours, every dog was fully vetted and had a treatment plan. Foster parents began showing up to take their dogs home for the first real night of peaceful rest in a long time. By the evening, every animal was accounted for and safe. These pups will continue to enjoy TLC until it is their turn to find their forever families. Could it be you? Stay tuned! In the mean time, please consider a financial contribution to help us care for these precious animals while
AND the Fredericksburg Battlefields Weddings Reunions Shuttles Parties Group Outings Fredericksburgtrolley.com
540-898-0737
What do you do at Downtown Greens? I am the Horticultural Director here at Downtown Greens, so I help with planning and managing the work that gets done in the upper and lower gardens by myself, the garden assistant, and our volunteers. I can also be found holding down the fort in the office on Thursday afternoons from 12:30-2:30.
degrees of squalor. One room had several dogs living inside of a mattress, while another had dogs living amongst empty bottles of Tide and Bleach. All of the animals were in some state of illness, both mental and physical. The dogs in the house were fairly easy to wrangle and get outside to safety. The SPCA Team was dedicated to get every animal possible off of this premises, and that is what they did. The van arrived back at the shelter shortly after 3pm,clouds hanging heavy in the sky.
How long have you been a part of Downtown Greens? Since the beginning of April, after moving to the ‘Burg from Phily. How do you like VA and the FXBG area so far? What are your fave places? I like Fred a lot. The history here and people’s specific knowledge about the history is pretty amazing. I love all of the parks and different beautiful places to go. George Washington’s birthplace is beautiful, breathtaking, the beach full of dead trees strewn about . It reminds me of Maine. You can find fossils and crazy looking shells, all kind of stuff. Also, Squash A Penny is the coolest place! In Fredericksburg, the old stone warehouse is pretty cool too. I went to a concert there once and Jack was telling me all about the cannonball dents in the building.
they are in our care, or choose a gift off our Amazon Wish List. or www.fredspca.org/donate. Find at www.facebook.com/fredspca
After everyone was safe inside of the facility, though a bit damp, it was time to begin the arduous task of administering vaccines and fluids, triaging illness, and dispensing medications for those fairing the worst.
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June 2018
What is your most memorable moment in a garden?
Caitlin Daly is the Executive Director of Fredericksburg Regional SPCA
Front porch fredericksburg
Available Late June at fredericksburgwriters.com
There was a moment when I was working with Mitch on the tomato farm (Mitch was part of one of the largest communes in the US in the 70s, him and his wife are so funny) and we were
harvesting scallions and there were some that didn’t look ready to go to me, and I said “Mitch, should I worry about these little ones?” and he said, “Well, don’t worry about it, man.” Seeing and tasting a black radish right out of the soil was also pretty memorable. I didn’t grow up with the concept of eating raw foods and foraging, I learned that later on. What is your favorite thing about Downtown Greens? My favorite part of Downtown Greens so far is watching how quickly everything grows and changes, and working with different plants and mulch to design beautiful areas in the lower garden. What is your favorite plant? My favorite plants are heirloom tomato plants because they grow in so many shapes and colors and when they're finally ready to harvest they're so delicious. If you could be any animal, what would you be? If I could be any animal I would be a blue heron. What is your favorite color? My favorite color is--you guessed it -GREEN
Sarah Perry is the Executive Direstor of Downtown Greens
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
29
Fredericksburg Sketches 606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg
A visual Celebration of our community
373-7847
By Casey Alan Shaw
www.gemstonecreations.org Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesdays until 6:30 and by appointment
Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged
Give a Child Something to Think About
Books, Games, Amusing Novelties M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm
810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684
SKETCH #44: “Craftsman”
This sketch was drawn in orange ink. It really forces you to take a good look at where the darks and lights fall and how the tonal ranges of the piece interact with each other when the artist strips away the usual fullcolor palette and simplifies everything down to shades of one or two colors. Carol created an incredible collection of these orange-ink sketches during a visit to Italy and I asked if she had any similar “Fredericksburg” sketches that she could share with us. And, finally, (c) I wanted to share a “Fredericksburg house portrait.” We get spoiled living in such a visually interesting town. When I recently showed a couple of local house portraits to an out-of-town artist friend, he seemed genuinely confused. “You mean people actually commission portraits of their houses?” he said. My answer was a resounding “Yes!” I often get requests for such “portraits.” Fredericksburg people are very proud of the legacy they preserve in their homes and, in a way, their home becomes an actual member of the family that they are happy to preserve for future generations. And, as you can tell from Carol’s sketch this month, we have good reason to be proud.
A 40-minute film with aerial and underwater photography that tells the story of the Rappahannock River from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay.
DVD $14.95; Members $11.96 www.riverfriends.org 540-373-3448 3219 Fall Hill Ave.
Front porch fredericksburg
by georgia Lee Strentz
I’m really happy to share this sketch with you this month for a number of reasons: a) Carol is a terrific artist; (b) I love the technique she used.
Own The Movie
June 2018
Pumpkin & Gabe @ Ponshop
This month’s sketch is by guest artist Carol Phifer. Carol is one of Fredericksburg’s “Urban Sketchers” that you may see out on a weekend afternoon around town drawing in her sketchbook.
Casey Alan Shaw is a local artist and Realtor. He exhibits his original artwork and limited-edition prints at Art First Gallery in downtown Fredericksburg and at www.caseyshaw.com.
30
DOWNTOWNERS
Oh yeah, my name is Pumpkin, and I am a cat, not just any cat, but a striped cat. Pumpkin is a cool name don't you think? Come see me and check out my cool stripes. Also bring your car and park it out front, because my hobby is sniffing car tires. Yes, weird you say, but if you were a cat you would understand. I live downtown, right above my favorite hang-out place, the PONSHOP, with my favorite friend Gabriel, who owns the shop,,and is an artist. He creates so many beautiful things, my favorite being the decorated skateboards, the black cat is my favorite. The PONSHOP sells and exhibits artwork of many of our outstanding artists here in Fredericksburg. Come see our pottery shop, ceramics by Scarlett Pons, beautiful paintings, by Maddie Huddle and others, handmade jewelry and art by individuals here and all over town, some sponsored by the Rappahannock Community Services Board. Gabriel has interesting summer programs for children, in Summer Art Camp, the children will draw,paint,model,sculpt their way through celebrating the history,and architecture and the natural landscape that makes our city so unique. Please stop in at 712 Caroline describing the other programs for kids ,such as Skate to Create, Intro.to Street Art Summer Camp,Heroes
and Villains Comic Book Workshop, and others. They also have ceramics classes, Ladies' Night Out: Wine and Clay,Girl ad Boy Scout Merit Badges, Birthday Parties and Group Art sessions, and more. I watch them all, the kids are so fun. Call Pumpkin at 540-656-2215, and visit us at 712 Caroline St. or www.ponshopstudio.com for more info. You will enjoy browsing through the store which has a tremendous amount of artwork for gift-giving. By the way, I moved here from Warrenton,Va., but Iove living in Fredericksburg,esp. "downtown." Alot of the shops have dogs and cats in the stores, so I have alot of feline and canine friends. Many of the shops have great gardens in the back of the shop, where we all meet and chase mice! I promise to share some lucky mice hunting secrets with you! " See Ya Downtown!!!!!!!" Love, Pumpkin Bailey keeps saying, "please get the 3 wheeler out of the garage,I know the rain will stop soon!" We will all be out on our great Fredericksburg jogging and bike trails soon gang!!!!!
Gal about town is always with her Front Porch magazine to read, when she finds a great river view, some grass or shade of a tree. PONSHOP 712 Caroline Street 540-6 656-2 2215, ponshopstudio.com Gabriel & Scarlett Pons, Proprietors Pumpkin, in -rresidence-ccat who “makes it all happen”
Virginia Lake Authors advocating the literary arts By Judy Hill and A.E. Bayne It is often said that writing is a solitary pursuit, but even the most introverted writers seek the camaraderie and feedback of a trusted group from time to time. The Fredericksburg area is rich with such literary talent who come together on the regular to inspire and motivate one another. Virginia Lake Writers is one such group of eclectic published writers who have been meeting since 2011 to support and educate members in polishing, promoting, and selling their work. Meeting programs are created and presented by member volunteers and cover a wide variety of subjects ranging from the process of writing and publishing to the business of marketing books. They also share news of literary festivals, conferences, editors and agents, and sometimes hold open readings, write to prompts, and complete other writing exercises. Members will give testimonials about the benefits of the group. Author Lois Griffin Powell says, "I love being around writers, because I feel there is always something new to be learned. Hearing what they're doing inspires me to keep writing and makes it exciting." Elaine Lewis gushes, "This group is amazing. I don't know how you are, but I'd be sitting in my studio with the blinds closed doing something, and this moves me out to other creative energies and the sharing of that is priceless." The club is organized and business is conducted by a Steering Committee currently consisting of Judy Hill, Allita Irby, Julie Phend, and Jean Young. Dues of $20.00 are collected annually in January of each membership year. Funds are used for club expenses, such as the offset of costs related to book sale opportunities, the production of an annual anthology, occasional purchase of presentation equipment and display materials for use of club membership. Carolyn Rowland was especially pleased when the group opened up to members who don't live in Lake of the Woods. She says, "I really like the community of the authors, but also what they are trying to do in terms of promotion and their devotion to that. There are always people who are expanding those boundaries, and there
are always people who are doing interesting things, so I've learned a lot from that." Virginia Lake Authors meet the third Saturday of the month from 12 noon until 2 p.m. at the Lake of the Woods Community Center. For up-to-date news of Virginia Lake Authors events, member successes and activities, visit their Facebook page @VirgniaLakeAuthors.
A.E. Bayne is a writer, artist, and educator who publishes the Fredericksburg Literary and Art Review. Virginia Lake Authors are featured in the Spring/Summer edition of FLAR that will be available in late June 2018.
Open Monday – Friday at 6am Open Saturday – Sunday at 7am Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner $5.00 Weekly Lunch Specials
NEW Bistro Menu! 540-373-8300 - marriott.com/fkrcy 620 Caroline St. FXBG, VA
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
31
Fredericksburg Sketches 606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg
A visual Celebration of our community
373-7847
By Casey Alan Shaw
www.gemstonecreations.org Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesdays until 6:30 and by appointment
Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged
Give a Child Something to Think About
Books, Games, Amusing Novelties M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm
810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684
SKETCH #44: “Craftsman”
This sketch was drawn in orange ink. It really forces you to take a good look at where the darks and lights fall and how the tonal ranges of the piece interact with each other when the artist strips away the usual fullcolor palette and simplifies everything down to shades of one or two colors. Carol created an incredible collection of these orange-ink sketches during a visit to Italy and I asked if she had any similar “Fredericksburg” sketches that she could share with us. And, finally, (c) I wanted to share a “Fredericksburg house portrait.” We get spoiled living in such a visually interesting town. When I recently showed a couple of local house portraits to an out-of-town artist friend, he seemed genuinely confused. “You mean people actually commission portraits of their houses?” he said. My answer was a resounding “Yes!” I often get requests for such “portraits.” Fredericksburg people are very proud of the legacy they preserve in their homes and, in a way, their home becomes an actual member of the family that they are happy to preserve for future generations. And, as you can tell from Carol’s sketch this month, we have good reason to be proud.
A 40-minute film with aerial and underwater photography that tells the story of the Rappahannock River from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay.
DVD $14.95; Members $11.96 www.riverfriends.org 540-373-3448 3219 Fall Hill Ave.
Front porch fredericksburg
by georgia Lee Strentz
I’m really happy to share this sketch with you this month for a number of reasons: a) Carol is a terrific artist; (b) I love the technique she used.
Own The Movie
June 2018
Pumpkin & Gabe @ Ponshop
This month’s sketch is by guest artist Carol Phifer. Carol is one of Fredericksburg’s “Urban Sketchers” that you may see out on a weekend afternoon around town drawing in her sketchbook.
Casey Alan Shaw is a local artist and Realtor. He exhibits his original artwork and limited-edition prints at Art First Gallery in downtown Fredericksburg and at www.caseyshaw.com.
30
DOWNTOWNERS
Oh yeah, my name is Pumpkin, and I am a cat, not just any cat, but a striped cat. Pumpkin is a cool name don't you think? Come see me and check out my cool stripes. Also bring your car and park it out front, because my hobby is sniffing car tires. Yes, weird you say, but if you were a cat you would understand. I live downtown, right above my favorite hang-out place, the PONSHOP, with my favorite friend Gabriel, who owns the shop,,and is an artist. He creates so many beautiful things, my favorite being the decorated skateboards, the black cat is my favorite. The PONSHOP sells and exhibits artwork of many of our outstanding artists here in Fredericksburg. Come see our pottery shop, ceramics by Scarlett Pons, beautiful paintings, by Maddie Huddle and others, handmade jewelry and art by individuals here and all over town, some sponsored by the Rappahannock Community Services Board. Gabriel has interesting summer programs for children, in Summer Art Camp, the children will draw,paint,model,sculpt their way through celebrating the history,and architecture and the natural landscape that makes our city so unique. Please stop in at 712 Caroline describing the other programs for kids ,such as Skate to Create, Intro.to Street Art Summer Camp,Heroes
and Villains Comic Book Workshop, and others. They also have ceramics classes, Ladies' Night Out: Wine and Clay,Girl ad Boy Scout Merit Badges, Birthday Parties and Group Art sessions, and more. I watch them all, the kids are so fun. Call Pumpkin at 540-656-2215, and visit us at 712 Caroline St. or www.ponshopstudio.com for more info. You will enjoy browsing through the store which has a tremendous amount of artwork for gift-giving. By the way, I moved here from Warrenton,Va., but Iove living in Fredericksburg,esp. "downtown." Alot of the shops have dogs and cats in the stores, so I have alot of feline and canine friends. Many of the shops have great gardens in the back of the shop, where we all meet and chase mice! I promise to share some lucky mice hunting secrets with you! " See Ya Downtown!!!!!!!" Love, Pumpkin Bailey keeps saying, "please get the 3 wheeler out of the garage,I know the rain will stop soon!" We will all be out on our great Fredericksburg jogging and bike trails soon gang!!!!!
Gal about town is always with her Front Porch magazine to read, when she finds a great river view, some grass or shade of a tree. PONSHOP 712 Caroline Street 540-6 656-2 2215, ponshopstudio.com Gabriel & Scarlett Pons, Proprietors Pumpkin, in -rresidence-ccat who “makes it all happen”
Virginia Lake Authors advocating the literary arts By Judy Hill and A.E. Bayne It is often said that writing is a solitary pursuit, but even the most introverted writers seek the camaraderie and feedback of a trusted group from time to time. The Fredericksburg area is rich with such literary talent who come together on the regular to inspire and motivate one another. Virginia Lake Writers is one such group of eclectic published writers who have been meeting since 2011 to support and educate members in polishing, promoting, and selling their work. Meeting programs are created and presented by member volunteers and cover a wide variety of subjects ranging from the process of writing and publishing to the business of marketing books. They also share news of literary festivals, conferences, editors and agents, and sometimes hold open readings, write to prompts, and complete other writing exercises. Members will give testimonials about the benefits of the group. Author Lois Griffin Powell says, "I love being around writers, because I feel there is always something new to be learned. Hearing what they're doing inspires me to keep writing and makes it exciting." Elaine Lewis gushes, "This group is amazing. I don't know how you are, but I'd be sitting in my studio with the blinds closed doing something, and this moves me out to other creative energies and the sharing of that is priceless." The club is organized and business is conducted by a Steering Committee currently consisting of Judy Hill, Allita Irby, Julie Phend, and Jean Young. Dues of $20.00 are collected annually in January of each membership year. Funds are used for club expenses, such as the offset of costs related to book sale opportunities, the production of an annual anthology, occasional purchase of presentation equipment and display materials for use of club membership. Carolyn Rowland was especially pleased when the group opened up to members who don't live in Lake of the Woods. She says, "I really like the community of the authors, but also what they are trying to do in terms of promotion and their devotion to that. There are always people who are expanding those boundaries, and there
are always people who are doing interesting things, so I've learned a lot from that." Virginia Lake Authors meet the third Saturday of the month from 12 noon until 2 p.m. at the Lake of the Woods Community Center. For up-to-date news of Virginia Lake Authors events, member successes and activities, visit their Facebook page @VirgniaLakeAuthors.
A.E. Bayne is a writer, artist, and educator who publishes the Fredericksburg Literary and Art Review. Virginia Lake Authors are featured in the Spring/Summer edition of FLAR that will be available in late June 2018.
Open Monday – Friday at 6am Open Saturday – Sunday at 7am Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner $5.00 Weekly Lunch Specials
NEW Bistro Menu! 540-373-8300 - marriott.com/fkrcy 620 Caroline St. FXBG, VA
front porch fredericksburg
June 2018
31