FPFJUNE2019 by Virginia Grogan

contents

closeups 5

Clockwork Tickers Procurers of Curiosities

holly thomson clark #30daysofbiking

Porch talk 4

on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages

In the garden: worms & their friends

everything greens:savor summer sip & see tour

the “other” art galleries I have a friend...one person

Sonja Petersen Wise: Cover Atist Shoy yoga teacher training

honor the memories

season’s bounty: back to the grill

fred area csa: more than vegetables

vino...lt blender frozen drinks

16-17

Calendar of events

history’s stories: fxbg agricultural fair heritage: spinning & mrs. roosevelt

what’s in a museum: old town hall /market square

20 Senior Care: protect your eyes

bike works tom eskam

it’s all energy...calm motion sickness

emancipated patients: palliative care

art of aging expo

mYSTERY hOUSE

art in the burg

on stage: a night on broadway

Companions: fun in the sun

astrology & you poetryman: the swan

fredericksburg sketches #fredstrong

...And more! 3

bob sima & shannon plummer shines light

24 sophia st. throwdown: CELEBRATION OF CERAMIC ARTS

25 Ronald walton practices art

Cover: "Snack Time at Carl's" by Sonja Petersen Wise

june 2019

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Bob Sima & Shannon Plummer shine their light in fredericksburg By collette caprara In a sense, singer/songwriter/heartlifter Bob Sima and his wife and co-creator Shannon Plummer, have been part of the Fredericksburg scene for more than 15 years, and they will be back again on July 6 for a workshop and house concert. For Tickets: (BobSima.com; BPT.me/4247320 ) Their presence began in the early 2000s when local folksinger/guitar-crafter Bob Gramann invited him to share his gifts at a concert in Pickers. Since that day, throughout the years, Bob and Shannon have made periodic appearances in the Burg in a variety of house concerts and meditative workshops. These visitations in their comet-like orbit included a concert at Bill Brooks’ “ManseField” home venues in 2013, which I attended. The CDs we purchased there were virtually addictive with. their transforming, uplifting quality. We knew that Rob Grogan—beloved co-founder of the Front Porch magazine—was then going

through a challenging time and felt that the music and message would be a would be a welcomed gift, so we sent him a CD. Rob responded with sincere gratitude in an editorial in the August issue of Front Porch titled “Loosen Your Grip.” He recounted that the song’s message that “the looser your grip, the lighter your load” had brought him to tears. In his words: “I loosened my grip on the rest of my day; it floated to me like a cork on a wave— unsinkable, inertia of motion— forward” as the day of a crucial surgery approached. He also quoted the lyrics another song, Shine: “If you let your guard down long enough you might just like lets itself in. If you open the door just a crack or two, you’ll get a flash of what you’ve been missing…so let it shine.”

When, soon after, Sima performed at another of Brooks’ house concerts, mutual friends former Councilman George Solley and Mari Kelly brought Rob to experience the music firsthand. I was at that gathering and will never forget the magic of that evening. Sima was aware of Rob’s challenges and seemed to send his songs directly to him. Some unseen unique conduit of energy was created between the two, and Rob lay his head back and smiled with sheer joy. Even after the passage of many years, Sima remembers that moment. “There is a thin little veil between us all, but for people in a place like Rob was, that veil is lifted and there is pure connection. When you are innocent and wide open, your heart will be filled. I hope that anyone who comes to our concerts

and listens to our songs will experience some sort of change that will enhance their lives and the lives of the people around them.” Collette Caprara is a local writer and artist. Note from Collette It was amazing to revisit in my memory Rob and his beautiful heart. When I think of Rob, I often think of the words to another of Sima's songs. "You were born in the light when you came to this life, you'll be bathed in the light when you leave."

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Collette Caprara

ON THE PORCH Guest Porch Editorial

Contributing Writers & Artists Rita Allan A.E. Bayne Dianne Bachman Laurie Black Cheryl Bosch Kevin Brown Collette Caprara Trista Chapman Meghann Cotter Jeannie Ellis Christina Ferber Frank Fratoe Joan M. Geisler Jon Gerlach Stacy Giglio Alexis Grogan Anne Hicks Ralph “Tuffy”Hicks Lori Izykowski Karl Karch David C. Kennedy Cecelia Kirkman Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy Donna McCague Pete Morelewicz Vanessa Moncure Patrick Neustatter DeLaura Padovan Penny A. Parrish Pam Lake Pell M.L. Powers Gerri Reid Rob Rudick Casey Alan Shaw Pat Smith Georgia Strentz Tina Will

Dawn Whitmore Sonja Petersen 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 2019 Olde Towne Publishing Co. All rights reserved.

June 2019

Our treasured fred-berry by collette caprara

Since we moved to Fredericksburg more than 25 years ago with our then-five-year-old son David Angelo, my husband David and I have cherished its many venues for access to the arts, our nation’s history, hiking trails and nature—as well as its proximity to both the Shenandoah mountains and the ocean. Yet, through the years, we discovered that the Burg’s most endearing quality is the personalized, caring character of small-town America—a place where “everybody knows your name.” A while back, my good friend Jenny Strobel and I came up with the perfect phrase for individualized experiences of the Burg’s personality— "Fred-b berry Moments” (harkening back to the hometown of the Andy Griffith Show). From time to time, we would text each other the details of any sightings of these special moments—including the following. Downtown on Caroline Street, a mailman on his delivery route recognized a customer across the street who had not been home to the receive her package when he had attempted to deliver it. He called out to her and sprinted across to hand-deliver it to her. Speaking of appreciation for the postal service peeps— another Fred-berry moment: I was at the downtown branch when another “regular” came in with a basket of Easter candies in gratitude for the employees heartfelt, cordial service. As many friends know, I typically write from a perch in the front window at Hyperion (where some muse of the Free Lance-S Star’s bygone days still inspires a bevy of writers!) One day, I was returning an item at the Pappagallo gift store across the street, but I said I would come back later when they couldn’t find the purchase in their record of charges. In surprisingly short time, the owner came to my “office” across the street to hand-deliver my refund in a paper bag! (They discovered it had been a cash purchase!) My friend Jenny had also experienced a Fred-berry moment with the same proprietor who

messages Hi, I just wanted to say thank you to Georgia Strentz for the nice articles she wrote on Blue Shark Antiques': Mark Repass.(Downtowners, April, 2019). Several people have made comments and we appreciate you taking time to do the articles. Mary Repass

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once urged her to take the greeting card she wanted and bring the payment later, since she didn’t have the money with her that day. Jenny’s story reminded me of a similar Fred-berry moment of my own— when the clerk at Riverby Books encouraged me to take home the book I had selected from their dollar shelf and come back to pay whenever I had the cash with me. Speaking of Hyperion, the “regulars” there share a feeling of kinship and true sense of community. Throughout the years, I have attended a graduation, a going-away party, and a funeral of special friends I had come to know at the coffee shop. And that feeling of friendship extends to the Hyperion baristas as well, who often have my habitual tall iced-coffee poured and waiting for me by the time I make it through the line to the service counter. In addition, that caring, delightful “small-town” nature of the Burg is evidenced by the omnipresence of Mayor Mary Katherine Greenlaw, who has quietly attended nearly every community and church event I have been to. Among these are the events hosted by and for our four sister-city organizations and Mayor Greenlaw is hands-on in her engagement. This sometimes includes events even in the countries of our partnering cities—such as her venture to Nepal, where I took a safari with her on the back of an elephant! As a member of the Brush Strokes Gallery, the Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts, and Fredericksburg’s Arts Commission, I have also continually been inspired by the mutual support among members of the Burg’s vibrant arts community. This uplifting comradeship is epitomized in the water-media workshop that Johnny Johnson has hosted for decades, where each of the more than 50 “regulars” offer encouragement, guidance, and praise for one another that echo Johnny’s hallmark generous and caring spirit.

Virginia I am so grateful you have continued the paper, I look forward to reading every issue "cover-to-cover!" Cathy Duncan Hello!= Front Porch I love that you picked a green house for March, St. Patty's Day (Mystery House, March, 2019). I so enjoy these little hunts. Thanks! Madeleine Vary

In addition to the happenstance magic moments of Fred-berry, scheduled events offered to the community for free are also unique cherished elements of the Burg. These include the annual Great Lives series of lectures by the authors of biographies that are hosted by Bill Crawley and the University of Mary Washington— which shine as a beacon of lightness and learning throughout the dark, short days of winters for all of the hundreds of grateful guests in their audience. And as the longer, brighter and warmer days of summer unfold, sincere thanks also go to the Fredericksburg Area Museum and the Central Rappahannock Regional Library for the engaging enjoyment of the Sounds of Summer and Music on the Steps concert series that they offer for all comers. From its Magic Moments to the gracious offering of our historic, cultural and educational institutions, Fredericksburg is, truly, a very special place in this world. Thanks to Front Porch magazine for highlighting so many of its unique qualities each month, inviting all to read it cover-to cover! Collette Caprara is a local writer and artist. Hello Virginia, My friend Jeanette' & I. do your mystery house search together. Jeanette is an 84 year old woman I volunteer to visit once a week through Mental Health America. We were in your magazine once in "I Have a Friend" by Laurie Black. Lisa Vittoria

Hi Virginia, Thank you so much for the article on my show ("Life in Monocrome", March 2019) Norma Woodward

Clockwork Ticker John Lee & Benjamin Kissell By a.e. bayne

“A Bog Troggle” The Clockwork Ticker is an artist out of Fredericksburg, Virginia, who creates magical creatures that embody a sense of whmisy and mystery. As selfproclaimed “procurers of curiosities and eccentricities,” John Lee and Benjamin Kissell (left) work off a shared love of all things Henson - think Legend and Labyrinth. John Lee says, "It might seem kind of silly, but I actually started getting far more into creature creating and monster making as a means of staying awake while watching movies with my husband after work. I have a

tendency to fall asleep if I'm sitting still for too long and needed something to do to keep my brain and hands busy. That, paired with growing up on the artistic influences of the Frouds (Brian, Wendy and Toby), Hensons (Jim and Brian), Rankin/Bass, and most things fantastically '80s, helps to keep my engine fueled. It doesn't hurt that I have a family that very much encouraged my weird and wonderful world from a very young age." Lee attributes a healthy imagination and "living on the cusp of wilderness and civilization" as additional influences on his creatures. He says he also has a group of like-minded peers, a plethora of at-hand folkloric texts, and the Internet to keep him supplied with magical inspiration. Q&A Material or Character? Character, definitely. The materials come and go as they will. Outer World or Inner World? Both. I've found that examining the Outer World through the Inner yields interesting results. Hometown or Big City? Hometown. Especially this one. A

healthy mixture of city and country. Nature or Technology? Nature. Short Story or Epic Novel? Short Story. Wonder or Experience? Wonder. One of my favorite things to do is to create something that I wonder what might have been or what could be. Action or Reaction? Action. Ain't nothin' to it but to do it. Work or Play? Work that is Play. Yesterday, Today, or Tomorrow? No Day But Today. You'll find The Clockwork Ticker online and in person at various arts festivals around Virginia. Catch them at Spotsylvania Volunteer Fire the Department Auxiliary Craft Show at the end of June, and follow them on Facebook @theclockworkticker. A.E. Bayne is a writer, artist, and veteran educator. She publishes FLAR and is an organizing partner in the Fredericksburg Independent

Old Town’s Greatest Tour 35 Monuments, Markers, & Attractions AND the Fredericksburg Battlefields Weddings Reunions Shuttles Parties Group Outings Fredericksburgtrolley.com

540-898-0737

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June 2019

In the Garden whose garden is it? worms & their friends By Tina Will The world under our feet and the air that is essential to the roots AND especially in our garden soil is a busy one! to the living organisms doing their work. Our gardens and landscapes would be Compacted soil reduces the pore spaces pathetic, poorly producing plots of dirt between soil particles and restricts the were it not for the worms and roots ability to absorb nutrients. It also microorganisms doing a lot of life-giving restricts the microscopic life from acting work. We who tend our gardens from as feeding agents to the plants we are above deserve credit for our labor and trying to grow. If there is too much rain enjoy the bounty, but we simply sow, feed, (remember Spring 2018?) then all that water can take up more than its fair share water, and wait for the seed magic to of space in the soil with the result that produce what's promised, while everything many things won't grow well due, in part, under our feet is contributing to the process in essential ways to low oxygen. We all that deserve recognition know that worms Feed your garden soil with and respect. are important aged manure and composted At the MGACRA aerators and leaf/grass clippings and you'll National Seed Swap event decomposers, but in January, Master enjoy a healthier bounty for all micro-organisms Gardener Pat Reilly gave a (bacteria, fungi) of that back breaking work! great talk on soil. Ideally, also need space soil should be composed of and food (the 25% air and 25% water, with the remains of plants harvested, compost or remainder being a combination of soil aged manure). Everything we grow particles, microorganisms and minerals. If depends on worms and the microscopic you let that sink in for a minute, you will life underground as well as the interplay realize that soil compaction pushes out of sun, air, water, and available nutrients.

Thanks for the Memories! And the 90 fabulous years together FXBG!

We appreciate your support & friendship ~Andy Lynn & the Roxbury Family Clearance Pricing Until Closing in June 601 Lafayette Blvd roxburyfarmgarden.com MAIN: (540) 373-9124 NURSERY: (540) 371-8802 6

June 2019

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A lot of this has been known for centuries, and is getting fresh attention in recent years. Peter Hatch published A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson's revolutionary garden at Monticello (2012), writing that in 1793 Jefferson accepted the red clay soil he had to work with but knew that it needed to be amended with well-rotted dung and other vegetable compost. The Monticello Gardens are legendary. In the 1930's and 40's Sir Albert Howard did detailed studies of soils in India. Published in 1947, and again in 2006, his book The Soil and Health: A Study of Organic Agriculture, tells of the importance of humus (not to be confused with hummus!) and the subsoil too as the contributors of all that plants need to grow well. He was one of the first to show the need to return to organic" farming, though much of his work was overlooked when commercial fertilizers seemed like a good choice in the post WWII era. Doug Tallamy, in 2007, published Bringing Nature Home and clearly makes the point that we depend on healthy soil to grow the plants we need to give us both food and oxygen. Soil also filters the water that we can't live without. Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) has a great publication on Compost: https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu: Publication HORT-49P. Use grass clippings, leaves, and vegetable food scraps (nothing that has been sprayed with herbicides or insecticides) in your compost bin. Once decayed, spread the soil from your

compost bin around your trees and shrubs. Feed your garden soil with aged manure and composted leaf/grass clippings and you'll enjoy a healthier bounty for all of that back breaking work!

Tina Will has volunteered with MGACRA for 13 years and lives near Ferry Farm in Stafford County. Photo by Tina Will

On the Trails #30daysofbiking: holly thomson clark By Kevin Brown

During the month of April, a local mother took up the challenge to bicycle around Fredericksburg for 30 days in a row. Let’s find out more about Holly Thomson Clark’s experience. Holly: “Since my husband Barry and I decided to move downtown five years ago, it’s been a huge improvement in our quality of life. We love spending time outdoors with our three kids (ages 6, 4, and 1), enjoying all the wonderful amenities Fredericksburg has to offer. For some time now, I’ve had a personal goal to reduce my car usage getting

around town, with encouragement through Family Pedals the podcast and like-minded people on social media. So I bought myself a cargo bike–designed for hauling around kids and whatever else you might need - I’d seen them when traveling but never here in Fredericksburg. Inspired by some people I follow on Instagram, I decided to join a challenge called #30daysofbiking in April. During my #30daysofbiking, I mostly biked from my house near the Canal Path to various points around Fredericksburg. For example, I would set out across town via lightly-trafficked Winchester to Lewis to Charles which would take me all the way to Hanover. Likewise, Littlepage and Sunken Road were good for getting across town, and then I would link these up with the Canal Path and routes through the college

campus. Sometimes I would wind my way up through the parking garage that is at the end of Sunken Road to get the kids to the elevated terrain of the UMW campus (which itself is a super fun place to ride bikes with kids) and then take the pedestrian bridge over Route 1 to go behind the Eagle Village Shopping Center to the Children’s Museum or onwards across Cowan Boulevard to Hugh Mercer Elementary – this route is faster than the school bus. I started out with some shorter trips to get comfortable and worked up to some epic trips, like to the dentist, then onto Hugh Mercer to drop off my son, then across the river via the Chatham Bridge and over to Falmouth Beach to meet up for a play group one morning. These are just a few of the numerous adventures I experienced while biking around Fredericksburg. #30daysofbiking was an exciting challenge to see what I could do without getting into a car. Transporting the kids via bicycle proved to be much more fun than driving. On the bike, we could point things out to each other and see a

surprising amount of wildlife like turtles and herons in the canal. And I found that by reducing the distance that I traveled each day to stay within biking range in the city limits, I felt more a greater sense of belonging here in the city and was generally happier with where we live. In conclusion, I’d love to see more people riding bicycles around Fredericksburg, and know that you don’t have to do it every day like I did – just use it to replace a trip under two miles and see how it goes. Think about adding a bicycle seat or trailer for your kids, and take it out for a short spin, and then build up as you feel more comfortable. And remember, bicycles always get the best parking!”

.Kevin Brown is the administrator of the "On the Fredericksburg Va Trails"

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June 2019

Everything Greens

Summer CSA shares now available

savor summer : sip & see tour By DeLaura Padovanl

Getting to know the Garden with Executive Director, Sarah Perry.

community?

great programs?

SP: We are 2.8 acre green space in downtown open to the public 365 days a year from dawn ‘til dusk. Downtown Greens provides a natural respite in the city, a place to feel comfortable and get away from it all, read a book, just be outside. Very importantly, we offer a place for kids to discover the

SP: Our Sip and See Tours are an excellent way to learn more about Downtown Greens. Even if you think you know the garden, getting to see all the different areas and learn which programs happen where is very interesting. These tours help people fall in love with the garden! The tours are on Friday afternoons throughout the summer. We meet at the office at 4 pm, get a cool, refreshing beverage, and stroll through the entire grounds in an hour. Sip and See Tours are FREE and open to all ages. The tours are really fun!

DP: Sarah, with so many exciting things happening at Downtown Greens right now, can you touch on some of the highlights for 2019 and something you are particularly enthusiastic about? SP: Well, the garden looks amazing right now - so many things are in bloom! We’ve had our first flush of daffodils and now iris, peonies, and the gorgeous Cross Vine in the lower garden are in their full glory! This is a sweet spot of the year, before the intense summer heat sets in. It’s hard to pick just one “special” event that I’m excited about. I always love our Youth Farm Program Dinners. The Chef from Orofino will be working with the kids to create a gardento-table meal for the youth and their

beauty of nature and, through our youth programs, start to learn where real food comes from. DP: About how many children is participate in the programming at the garden? SP: Over the course of 2019, we will serve roughly 200 youth and their families. DP: Is the education piece a new direction for the garden?

families. Also, we will be hosting our firstever Food Truck Rodeo in July! This will be a new fund-raiser for us and that is very exciting news! DP: What a great way to get new folks introduced to Downtown Greens! Will you explain the role Downtown Greens plays in the larger Fredericksburg

June 2019

SP: Well, we’ve always been a family-friendly, open-to-all-ages organization. But I see the impact our educational programs are having on the youth who participate - it’s a big impact! and that is very rewarding. It is definitely our direction now. DP: How can people learn more about Downtown Greens and all of these

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www.fredericksburgcsa.com

DP: How does a person sign up for a Sip and See Tour? Do they need any special gear? SP: We LOVE RSVP’s so we have a sense of how many people to expect. Please call the office at 540-371-7315 and leave a message to sign up. Of course, drop-ins are OK, too, if you make a last minute decision to join us! Wear comfortable shoes for walking and dress for the weather. 2019 Sip and See Tour Schedule: May 24, June 7 & 21, July 12 & 26, and August 9 & 23. Come One and All!

DeLaura Padovan, DTG Office Administrator photos courtesy of DTG

Snead’s Asparagus Farm N o t t o L at e To J o i n C S A Don’t Miss Out on Locally G ro w n P ro d u c e Vi s i t s n e a d s fa r m . c o m fo r D e t a i l s 10 mi. S.E. of downtown on Rt. 17

540/371-9 9328

BEAUTIFUL EMBELLISHED COVER-UP

the other art galleries two hidden gems By Penny A Parrish & Patricia Smith

Meet Jen Galvin @Community Bank

new show, going up June 3, will celebrate three years of partnership between CBTC and FCCA. Looking for something special to do before the evening events on the first Friday of each month? Stop by the Bank between 2 and 5 those days for the unique "First Friday Afternoons." Artists are on hand to meet with the public and give tours. In addition, anyone can stop by the

Fredericksburg is fast becoming a destination for art lovers not only in Virginia but up and down the East Coast. On First Fridays, more than a dozen galleries treat locals and visitors to outstanding, award-winning pieces. You

Meet Rebecca Carpenter @UUFF Gallery

723 Caroline St 899.8077 Daily 10-5:30; Sunday 12-5 “Restless”, Rebecca Carpenter @UUFF Art Gallery

“Golden Mountain Moonrise”, Jen Galvin @Community Bank of the Chesapeake

Supporting Local Artists Since 1997

can find oils, acrylics, watercolors, fabric art, jewelry, 3D art, porcelain, pottery, photography…the list is endless. While most galleries are obvious from the street, one hidden gem awaits visitors diagonally across from Hurcamp Park. That gallery is in Community Bank of the Chesapeake (418 William Street). The large walls, high ceilings, inviting lobby and spacious offices house up to 30 works by members of Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts (FCCA). A

Bank during business hours (weekdays 9-5 and Saturdays 9-12) to see the art. All pieces are for sale and benefit FCCA, the area's oldest art gallery established in 1963. CBTC is an active supporter of the arts, providing funding for Art Attack and other similar events. The partnership with FCCA provides a showcase for local artists and merges business and creativity in the best way possible. Stop by and see for yourself! Penny A Parrish , FCCA Special Events coordinator CBTC art shows. bankartfcca@gmail.com

Wilson Watkins. They use a range of media, from photography, oil, acrylics, graphite pencil, pastel, watercolor, cutpaper collage, and digital photography. Rebecca Carpenter creates archival digital photographs in a series of works based on a theme, such as "Metamorphosis". She usually starts to play with an image until an idea or theme comes to her, and gradually she clarifies the concept. She says her work is always better after she clarifies her concept. In her photograph "Restless", she is steeped in her "Metamorphosis" theme: white gauzy dresses to suggest the lightness and freedom of a butterfly, the model lies on

“Portrait of Artist's Husband”, Laurie Wilson Watkins @UUFF Gallery

Artists are often fascinated with portraits: the mystery of a human heart glimpsed in a face; the techniques necessary to render a likeness; the challenge of representing inner life in outward appearances; the symbolic possibilities of human representation; the range of emotions expressed in daily life... The Unitarian Universalist Gallery,, invites you to explore portraiture with nine regional artists in the exhibit "Portrait: Elegance and Expression", thru June 30. The nine artists are Rebecca Carpenter, Tronja, Anthony Silver, Ginnie Martineau, Ed King, Amanda Carter, Anita Holle, Carolyn Cameron, and Laurie

shimmering mylar, a metallic paper which mimics the patterns and colors of a butterfly, and most significantly the magical duplication of the model, so she addresses her self. Rebecca shows empowered women in all stages of life, and wants to convey the beauty in even the most difficult times of metamorphosis. . The UUFF Art Gallery is a subsidiary of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Fredericksburg.located at 25 Chalice Circle, provides space for original art to be shared in Fredericksburg. Patricia is a painter and a member of the Visual Arts Committee at UUFF

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June 2019

“I Have A Friend”

Large or Small, I Sell Them All! Dreaming of Fabulous City Living? Let’s Make It Happen!

one person By Laurie Black SUZY STONE Mobile:540.847.0630 Office: 540-898-2900 suzystone22@gmail.com C21redwood.com

Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One

You have probably heard the saying, “To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world.” This is certainly true of the many volunteers in our community. Volunteers are bridge builders. They close the gap between generations and cultures. They reach out to those in need and help them forge a better future. Volunteers are individuals making a collective impact. Since May was National Volunteer month, I decided to ask some of our volunteers who have over 500 service hours - why do you volunteer? Barbara Stafford “My senior has become my friend. My favorite memory of volunteering is laughing like crazed oldies at Kentucky Fried Chicken – but I think you had to be there, though.” Niki Howell “A favorite memory of my volunteer experience is probably the day my “senior” told me she loved me. I guess I wasn’t ready for that! I volunteer because I feel seniors are very overlooked and need extra help and attention.” Laura Pryce “Giving back is very important to me, but sometimes I am blessed more by what my senior does for me. She always has a positive spin on a problem she may have. I am humbled and leave her house with a smile knowing my personal issues are a piece of cake.” Richard Compton “I have visited many seniors over the years. Most have passed away now. I especially enjoyed visiting World War II vets. Two veterans I visited were in Pearl Harbor during the war. Another veteran was at the Battle of the Bulge. His birthday was on Veteran’s Day. He once got to throw out the first pitch at a Yankees’ exhibition game. Their stories are important. Another client I had

June 2019

played the violin. I would bring my guitar to visit her and we would play together for other residents. This always made everyone happy.” Maria Cofer “Volunteering is important to me in memory of my mother. I was not in the same country when she would have needed the program. Now I am giving back. I also love people.” Steve Flanagan “Volunteering allows me to feel connected to the world. My daughter is my only blood relative. So, prior to my marriage seven years ago, I really didn’t have a strong connection outside of work. Volunteering fills me with happiness. It really is a selfish endeavor . ” Pat Quinn “I have volunteered with Senior Visitors for the past 17 years because it makes a positive difference not only in the life of the seniors I spend time with, it also fulfills a purpose in my life. It’s an opportunity to fill a void in a senior’s day and allows me to be a part of something bigger than myself.” Are you ready to make a world of difference to someone? Consider volunteering! Give us a call and find out if the Senior Visitors Program would be a good fit for you.

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

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Jewell Wolterman 12225 Amos Lane, Ste 204 Fredericksburg, VA 22407 540-907-0574 www.elitetitleva.com jwolterman@elitetitleva.com

Stafford House of Yoga Yoga Teacher Training By anne Hicks

There is joy in finding educators who know how to teach yoga to those that want to learn to teach it or just want to SHOY (Stafford learn the techniques. House of Yoga) teachers, generously provide that space to grow and learn. Often sharing– “you are your own best teacher.” A collective part of the lessons in our yoga teacher training journey and in our yoga practice, is awakening to understand deeply how to open physically, spiritually, emotionally, and personally to oneself and to others. Teachers can bring the gifts of yoga and it’s healing potential into others’ lives. These SHOY teachers, and the recent graduates including myself, have grown so much it may be said that we never wanted this class to end. It’s part of a larger movement that reinforces our connection and bonds to one another, like the classmates in your room, the family in your life, the communities within all of communities, the world and the endless possibilities of love, living presently with mindful awareness, and giving all that back to those who seek, and “yoke”; one of the interpretations of what it means to do yoga. The mediations are always the first place to start and commonly the most challenging. The Asanas were one very integral part of this YAX Yoga conceptual science base training and understanding of the body from the simple to complex with the therapeutic vision.

It was a priceless experience that is a lifetime investment for me and community. -I began training to deepen yoga practice and give back to the community and I left with a tribe, energy and real connection. -My experience with SHOY was life changing for the better and am grateful to connecting with all yoga family. - I love the safe space and emotional and mental healing. -The person I am today is not the person I will be tomorrow. SHOY is a game changer in my life. I’m so honored. -I have such gratitude for the connecting, I have been moved on such a deep level. I laughed, I cried, I opened my heart! -Teacher Training was intense but expanded my perspective on life. Love the bonding experience and friendships that were made. -SHOY is my home away from home. More than Yoga poses, I finally understand how yoga works in the body and that’s what makes SHOY different. Grateful for the opportunity to be so vulnerable with a deeply connected group of people. -SHOY gave me unconditional love and support with a joyfilled community of people. ---Teacher training at SHOY – a magnificent journey”. One we will share.

Our class shared their feedback and wanted to share their enriching experiences with our community. You’ll likely find many of us teaching. Feedback was given in notes and now quoting the families thoughts connected together as follows: Allowed me a safe space to grow in my knowledge of yoga as well as spiritually. -It was a life changing event. -

Anne Hicks, writer, is a certified YaxYoga Concepts teacher who works at the Department of Veterans Affairs

Sonja Petersen Wise June Cover Artist Sonja started selling and commissioning individual drawings in her teens while growing up in Culpeper, Virginia. After studying painting and printmaking at VCU and history at UMW, she launched her career in marketing with the City of Fredericksburg Parks and Recreation Department, ran her own graphic design studio, and is now currently working in Public Information with the City. “I thrive on the energy of balancing all three of my passions: work, family and daily sessions in my home art studio.” She offers custom artwork and is best known for her house drawings and pet portraits. Her talent for capturing visual traits of a subject creates emotional connections within her classic style of art. She takes pride in focusing on her customers’ requests, respecting their visions, and collaborating with them during the creative process. "My flexibility and experience as an artist and business woman allows me to provide an enjoyable art buying process whether someone is a new or an experienced art buyer. I take pride in focusing on my customers’ requests and respecting their vision. I strive always for my artwork to honor those sentimental places in time... and for them to be enjoyed for generations to come."

Connect with Sonja to find out more about custom commissions or artworks 540 -2 273-6 6667 artworkbysonja.com Email: art@artworkbysonja.com Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

This month’s cover “Snack Time at Carl’s” is a colored pencil drawing created by Sonja in 2019 as part of FAM’s “People and Their Pets Exhibt. Sonja’s Recent Awards: Fredericksburg Fine Arts Exhibit, Honorable Mention Drawing, 2018 Fredericksburg Fine Arts Exhibit, Honorable Mention Acrylics, 2018 Fredericksburg Fine Arts Exhibit, 2nd Place Drawing, 2017

“Yoga is a light, which once lit, will never dim. The better your practice, the brighter your flame” ~. B.K.S iyengar

Stafford House of Yoga 971 Garrisonville Rd, Stafford, VA 22556 www.staffordhouseofyoga.com; fb (540) 659-0 0777 front porch fredericksburg

June 2019

Honor the Memories Graduation By cheryl bosch

To graduate: the successful completion of a program of study. Gosh, it’s so much more than that, isn’t it? It’s a milestone that marks the next step in a lifelong journey. And along with graduation come diplomas and memories. Do you wish you could keep those memories with you no matter what changes you go through? We take a bazillion pictures but seldom display them. When a graduation approaches gather those memories whether in the form of photos or memorabilia. A collage frame or shadow box will make a beautiful display. You can also add the graduation year and/or a graduate silhouette to complete the presentation. From the serious to the whimsical, these memory boxes will add a smile to your day and preserve the memories for a lifetime. The diploma is an official document often displayed at work. Frame it for the job you will have in the future. Be sure to request ultraviolet filtering glass and acid free matboards. Dry mounting your diploma on acid free backing board is recommended but

beware...if your diploma has raised lettering do not let the framer use heat in the dry mounting. The wax in the ink that will melt. Fortunately most current certificates don’t use raised ink. Even more rare is an actual sheepskin diploma. Only a handful of schools still use them but if yours is real sheepskin make sure your framer is aware. Sheepskin should be mounted archivally and not dry mounted. There is one high school in Alexandria and a handful of Ivy League universities that still use them. They should always be labeled but if you’re not sure hold it up to the light. If you can see dots and blemishes throughout the paper it might be the pores of the sheepskin. Thankfully most schools are phasing out sheepskin.

Some schools offer a framing package. I’ve seen good examples and bad. The gold foil embossed school logo is less costly when massed produced, but make sure it is on acid free paper. The facing paper, core, and backing must all be acid free. Acidic board will turn your certificate noticeably brown within a few years. Most of the ready-made diploma frames come with a backing board to go behind the certificate. I recommend having it dry mounted locally. Before deciding on a mass produced frame or a locally made custom frame, stop by a frame shop and look at the samples. Ask for an estimate and do some comparison shopping. Keep in mind that value involves more than just the lowest price. Quality materials and experienced craftsmanship are important elements for a product that will endure over the years.

Cheryl Bosch is a Certified Picture Framer and has co-owned Frame Designs Gallery for the past 30+ years. Her art appears under the name CEEBS.

June 2019

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

Now the frame: this is probably not something you want to put into a psychedelic mat or frame. A black and gold or black and silver frame is very popular because it goes with the certificate and the seal. French lines of gold or silver ink on a black mat can really add to the presentation. Beware of frames that are wrapped in a faux finish, they won’t last. Ask your framer if the frame has a faux veneer.

Congratulations to all the graduates out there, now go out there and be awesome!

Shop Local

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www.donatelifevirginia.org

Season’s Bounty

WELCOME TO OUR GREAT OUTDOORS It’s Beautiful ~ Night and Day!

back to the grill again! vanessa moncure

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

Locally Owned Irish Pub and Restaurant 200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738

The Sunken Well Tavern

It’s that time of year again! Make room in your refrigerator for a permanent pitcher of sweet tea and load up on the charcoal for summer grilling! Memorial Day weekend kicks off the the unofficial start of backyard grilling-inearnest. When it’s ninety degrees in the shade outside, who feels like standing over a hot stove inside when you can grill outside? And there are SO many outdoor cooking appliances to choose from today from a simple charcoal grill (check out the KUDU grill), to hibachi size to the Green Egg to competition-size; infrared ovens; workhorse Weber propane grills; gas and

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

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

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

11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm

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

wood-fired pizza ovens; grilling stones, griddles and rotisserie spits; complete luxury outdoor gas kitchens; tandoor clay and roti ovens; classic turkey fryers; and boilers, tops in our area for backyard steamed and Old Bay spiced blue crabs. Of course you don’t need every listed appliance - with a cast iron skillet, you can fry chicken, blacken fish and keep hush puppies coming - on a grill top you can fry eggs and pancakes, grill sandwiches and vegetables, and cook that delicious pizza - and if you love tandoori chicken and flatbread, check out the YouTube videos on how to make your own oven with clay flower pots! I have to mention the importance of cleaning your grill before each use, preheat the grill or griddle; fold a small towel, grip with a pair of metal tongs and pour 2-3 tablespoons of canola oil on the end. Use this to oil the griddle top or grill strips to help avoid food sticking. Scrape and clean these after each use, while still hot, with a longhandled brush BUT avoid brushes with metal bristles as they can easily break off and get in your food. Save those for the times you’re doing a complete cleaning and washing/scrubbing - when I do those, I put all the disassembled oven-cleanerproof pieces in a large black trash bag, then spray thoroughly and leave overnight before washing, scraping and wiping clean. Follow directions on the can of oven cleaner - this is definitely an outside job! JAMAICAN JERKED CHICKEN OR PORK Jerk sauce is THE Jamaican barbeque sauce and marinade mix. Prepare the sauce at least an hour before you begin to marinate the meats as it needs time for the flavors to develop. To prepare the sauce, place about two cups roughly cut green onions or scallions, one cup thinly sliced fresh ginger, one-third cup chopped garlic, 4 Scotch Bonnet chilies or ten whole jalapeno peppers, one cup lime juice and one and one-half cups soy sauce together in a food processor and puree until very smooth. Pour into a mixing bowl and stir in the following ingredients, adjusting the flavors of soy, lime and brown sugar to your taste. Onequarter cup ground allspice, two teaspoons ground cinnamon, one cup malt vinegar, one half-cup dark brown sugar, two tablespoons dark molasses, one half teaspoon each ground nutmeg and cloves, one tablespoon minced fresh thyme, one teaspoon cracked black pepper and one cup canola oil. Mix together well. This will make enough marinade/BBQ sauce for two large chickens (each cut into eight pieces) and 2-3 pounds of pork loin (sliced into

one and one-half inch steaks). Keeps well for about a week refrigerated. TO PREPARE AND SERVE - Marinate meat in just enough sauce to coat, using your hands to cover completely, for about two hours. Discard used marinade. Grill meat over medium heat, turning frequently. Transfer to a serving platter and place a small bowl of the marinade to use as additional BBQ sauce. Delicious served with grilled vegetables or grilled pineapple. This always reminds me of buying jerk chicken at roadside grilling shacks in the Caribbean! SOUTHWESTERN BEER RIBS Mix together the marinade in a gallon plastic bag - six large cloves of minced garlic, one tablespoon each ground cumin and dried oregano leaves, two tablespoons (or more to taste) ground ancho chili, one half-cup lime juice and a 12-ounce Mexican beer. Place four pounds beef short ribs (or pork tenderloin or chicken wings if you’d like!) in the bag and coat fully with the marinade. Refrigerate overnight, turning occasionally. Remove ribs from the bag and wipe ribs dry to avoid having burned bits while grilling. Discard marinade. Grill over hot fire, about 2-3 minutes per side. Great with grilled CORN ON THE COB Shuck enough corn for everyone, being careful to remove all of the silk tassels. Place on hot grill, turning often, until charred all around, about ten minutes. Remove from grill, brush with melted butter and sprinkle with Kosher salt. GRILLED SHRIMP & VEGETABLE SKEWERS Prepare the marinade - melt onehalf cup butter and add four large grated cloves of garlic, one tablespoon each of lemon juice and Cajun seasoning. Divide in half, as you will brush it on while grilling. If using wooden skewers, soak in water at least an hour before grilling. Lightly oil metal skewers. Use shrimp size 16-20 count per pound, or 21-24. Peel and devein enough shrimp for 6-8 per person, leaving on the tails. Skewer shrimp and brush on marinade. Cover and refrigerate while preparing vegetable skewers, using a mixture of zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, green peppers and mushrooms. Brush marinade on vegetables - place shrimp and vegetable skewers on hot grill, brushing often with the marinade, at 3-4 minutes cooking time each side. Sprinkle vegetable with kosher salt and coarse ground pepper. Sprinkle shrimp with finely minced fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Vanessa serves up yummy recipes for all seasons

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June 2019

Fred Area CSA more than vegetables By cecelia kirkman farming lessons learned at Hartland to feed their own families while they work in gospel ministry or health care. While Hartland is busy growing future farmers, Blenheim Organic Gardens is busy growing history and conserving nature. Located on George Washington's family land on the Northern Neck of Virginia, Blenheim Organic Gardens is the only Certified Organic farm in the larger Fredericksburg region. Becky and Lawrence Latané, descendants of the Washington family, work hard to preserve the history and nature of Blenheim. Blenheim House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1780, George Washington’s nephew, William Augustine, built Blenheim House on farmland that had been in the Washington family for nearly a century. Blenheim House had Planting Lettuce a Blenheim been abandoned and was in ruins when Lawrence's parents When you purchase a summer bought the farm in the early 1950s. The share from the Fredericksburg Area CSA Latane´s began restoring the home 20 Project, you are doing more than buying years later, and in 1976 moved in. Since local, organically grown vegetables. You 2000, Becky & Lawrence Latané have been are also supporting the broader mission of growing USDA-certified organic our farmers. vegetables, flowers, fruit, and herbs. At Hartland Natural Farm, a The acreage at Blenheim is under ministry of the Hartland Institute permanent protection through a (Hartland.edu) in Rapidan, students and conservation easement. The easement staff learn to grow food from orchards, prohibits development and preserves the gardens, and greenhouses using Certified farm for generations to come. Some of the Naturally Grown methods. Hartland protected fields and wetlands attract Institute was established in 1983 as a thousands of Canadian geese each winter. comprehensive training center for young Bald eagles nest in a loblolly pine beside people. It supports the worldwide mission the marsh. The marsh is also the site of a day Adventist and ministry of the Seventh-d great blue heron rookery. Church. Locally, produce from Hartland Students attending the Institute and Blenheim is available through the rotate work stations on the farm. There, Fredericksburg CSA Project they learn seed selection, soil preparation, (FredericksburgCSA.com). Summer shares planting, weeding, fertilizing, watering, are now available. Distributions of the harvesting and distribution. The students twenty-week shares begin June 6 and run come from all over the world. Recent through October 24. Blenheim also classes have included youth from Asia, operates an occasional “buyer’s club.” Africa, North America, South America and More information can be found on Australia. Blenheim’s website at Upon completing classes at bleinheimorganicgardens.org. Hartland, graduates return to their home countries. There, they use farming to support the schools at which they will be Cecelia Kirkman is a volunteer with the Fredericksburg Area CSA Project teaching. Others will teach women and (FACSAP). Providing its first organicallyfamilies farming as a trade to support grown harvest in 1997, FACSAP is themselves. In some instances, farming Fredericksburg’s oldest Community will become the vehicle for mental health Supported Agriculture program. work. And some graduates will use the

June 2019

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Monday – Friday at 6 am Saturday – Sunday at 7 am Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Weekly Lunch Specials

540.373.8300

620 Caroline Street

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

540-899-0140 (ph)

540-899-0141 (fax)

Rand Sompayrac & Richard Moncure, Proprietors

Become a Member

fxbgfoodcoop@gmail.com fredericksburgfoodcoop.com

Vino Chillin' With Lt. Blender by City Vino

Olde Towne BUTCHER Corner of William & Charles Streets Downtown Fredericksburg 540.370.4105 www.oldetownebutcher.com Monday to Thursday, 10am to 7pm; Friday 10am to 8 pm Saturday 9am to 8pm, Sunday, 11am to 6pm Keith Lebor Proprietor

It is once again that time of the year for picnics, BBQ, and alfresco dinners under the evening skies but most of all it is time to unplug, relax and spend quality time with family and friends. Fire up the grill while the meat and vegetables are marinating. Mix together a big bowl of grandma's award-winning potato salad. Decorate that American flag cake studded with fresh strawberries and blueberries from the local farmer's market. Stock the cooler with lots of water, juice boxes for the kids, soda, beer, wine and prepare some cocktails. When the high temperatures rise, nothing is more refreshing than a frosty frozen fruity drink, however, the preparation work can keep you in the kitchen away from your guests as you are juicing or slicing fruit, measuring ingredients and whirling up the blender. No more, we say! Enter Lt. Blender. Lt. Blender produces a line of Wine Freezer® bags where you simply add a bottle of wine and then a bit of water, shake the bag and then toss it the freezer until you are ready to serve it. Each Lt. Blender's Wine Freezer® bag contains freeze dried fruit using NASA technology which has no artificial flavors, artificial colors and preservatives. They are also gluten free and vegan too. Lt. Blender's Wine Freezer bags come in multiple styles. For the Sangria and a bottle of basic red table wine, for the White Sangria add a bottle of white table wine, for the Peach Bellini add a dry un-oaked white wine and for the Strawberry add a rosé or dry white wine to the bag. hen add water, shake and freeze. If you are short on time (or anxious to try it), add water, shake and serve over ice. Intrigued by the Lt. Blender name? The story begins with groups of

U.S. paratroopers having a competitive nature. There was only one blender on the island where they were stationed, and it couldn't keep up with the demand for cool beverages when the staff were off duty. A Lieutenant by the name of McMorris became well known for filling empty ration bags with fresh fruit and alcohol and would toss them into the mess hall freezer in preparation for weekend down time. Making them in advance allowed him to keep up with the demand. Soon, he was nicknamed Lt. Blender. "Lt. Blender" after his many careers and raising four children grew tired of big city life and found an old rundown ice cream factory in Galveston Island, TX which he turned into this business venture. His memories of making frozen cocktails have been brought back to life. Let us cheer his ingenuity! City Vino is located at 810 Caroline St. You can find owner Rita Allan on-site to provide answers to all your wine questions

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June 2019

CALEND june 2019…Celebrate Your Dad! Saturday, June 1

Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 7a-2p Spotsylvania Farmers Market @ Commuter Lot at Route 3 West and Gordon Road, 8a -1pm open Reducing Plastic. Learn how your actions can lessen the impact of plastics on the environment. 2-4 pm, Presbyterian Church of FXBG, 810 Princess Anne St, Co-sponsored by Fredericksburg Food Coop. fredericksburgfoodcoop.com "Rock the River", 11a-8p, Old Mill Park, featuring live musical performances from Kyle Davis, Colonial Seafood, and Jackson Flats. Art in the Park at the Farmers Market 9a to 1p. Hurkamp Park, 500 William Street, local artists and craftspeople share their handmade goods in the park Free admission, be sure to stop by on your way through the farmers market! 62nd annual Antique Auto Show, 10a-3p Caroline St how will feature approximately 200 antique cars telling the story of the automobile's development from the early 1900's through 1994. There will be additional activities throughout the day.

Sunday, June 2

Open Bluegrass Jam, Sunken Well Tavern, 7p-9p

Monday, June 3

"League of Earth's Angels - Howell Library Rm #1 7:30pm. women's discussion circle. topic this month's "MEN, SEX, & POWER". FB page All women are welcome Acoustic Onion @CRRL “Music on the Steps”, downtown Branch, 1201 Caroline Street, at 7p.m., Lawn chairs, blankets, & picnics welcome. In case of inclement weather, concerts inside e theater 7p

Tuesday, June 4

Big Daddy Shag & Touch a Truck, Picnic in the Park, Hurkamp Park 11:30- 1:30pm "A Marbled Menagerie" works by Lynette L. Reed, Beautiful creatures abound at Artful Dimensions Gallery 922 Caroline Street, , artfuldimensionsgallery.com

"Photographing your work", workshop by Laura O'Leary class with Professional Photographer 6-8p, FCCA $ LauraSmilesPhotography@Gmail.com

Wednesday, June 5

Food Co-op Happy Hour. join us for friendly competition on the theme "Picking Strawberries." 6-8 pm, Adventure Brewing, 33 Perchwood Dr Unit 101, Fredericksburg. fredericksburgfoodcoop.com

Thursday, June 6

Fredericksburg Photography Club's annual show. Thru June 9, Dorothy Hart Community Center

First Friday Friday, June7

Sounds of Summer Concert Series Presented by the Fredericksburg Area Museum FREE 7-9 PM in historic Market Square located at 907 Princess Anne Street.: Elby Brass: Heavy Horn Funk FCCA Members Gallery, Vickie Varela & Taylor Cullar, Special gurst artisst, Ronald Walton, "The Artist". Brush Srokes Gallery, featured artist Lisa Gillen, "The Roots of our Love", opening reception. 824 Caroline St. "Big Fish" presented by CYT Fredericksburg! June 7th - June 16th BIG FISH tells the story of Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman who lives life to its fullest… and then some! Edward's incredible, larger-than-life stories thrill everyone around him - most of all, his devoted wife Sandra. But their son Will, about to have a child of his own, is determined to find the truth behind his father's epic tales. Purchase your tickets early at: www.cytfredericksburg.org/shows !

Saturday, June 8

Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 7a-2p Kids' Market@Farmers Market Hurkamp Park. Join us for a special Kids' Market at the Hurkamp Park Farmers Market. For more information email marketmanager@fredericksburgva.gov or visit www.thefarmersmarket.co Spotsylvania Farmers Market @ Commuter Lot at Route 3 West and Gordon Road, 8a -1pm open

Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer

540~479~4116 1013 Princess Anne St , FXBG 16

JUNE 2019

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Community Yard Sale, 8AM to 2 PM at Aquia Episcopal Church, 2938 Jefferson Davis Highway, Stafford. Food and beverages will be sold as well. Admission is free (540-659-6654) 3rd Annual Sophia Street Throwdown downtown Fredericksburg will be the location of a celebration of ceramic art. Over 20 exhibitors will be set up to display and sell their pottery.demonstrations in wheel throwing as well as a tent set up with pottery wheels for the public to participate in a hands-on experience Kids Fishing Derby @Motts Run FREE! Ages 4-16 years Fishing, boat rental, games, door prizes every hour, vendors, hiking, picnicking…7:30-10a registration; tournament 8:30-11a.Sponsored by FXBG Parks & Rec & Weekend Bassers. info 540372-1086 or emai l fredprpf@fredericksburgva.gov. fun for the entire family! (VA Game Dept. 'Free Fishing Weekend' - no license required!) 'A Night on Broadway' Takes Audience to the Bright Lights of the 'Big Apple' at Stafford High School, Annual Event Features Dinner, Show and Silent Auction. Dinner and show tickets must be pre-purchased by emailing evelerja@staffordschools.net. Show-only tickets are available at the door.

Sunday, June 9

Open Bluegrass Jam, Sunken Well Tavern, 7-9p

Monday, June 10

The Dangerous Kitchen @CRRL popular summer concert series, Music on the Steps, downtown Branch, 1201 Caroline Street, Lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics are welcome. In case of inclement weather, concerts move to theater 7p

Tuesday, June 11

Wil Gravatt & Jimbo Byram/Flag Day: Picnic in the Park, Hurkamp Park 11:30- 1:30pm

Wednesday, June 12

Art of Aging: Life Begins at 50 Expo, Fredericksburg Expo Center from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. visit about 100 sponsors and vendors. over fifteen short courses, on various topics, throughout the day. There will be various health screenings and demonstrations

Thursday, June 13

Food as Medicine. An app and veggies) really can k healthy benefits of a p pm. Stafford Hospital, C 101 Hospital Center Blv by Fredericksburg fredericksburgfoodcoop.

Friday, June 14

Sounds of Summer Conc Fredericksburg Area Mu every Friday night from Square located at 907 P Kingbolts: Rock

Night Catfishing @Motts 1a. Come hook your b catch catfish in the Rese allowed on the water o VDGIF standards for n must be off the water picnic tables available al bring your own.Questio (540) 786-8989 or visit

Saturday, June 15

Farmers Market, Hurkam

Art in the Park at the Far 1pm. Hurkamp Park, 5 local artists and cr handmade goods in the sure to stop by on your market!

Spotsylvania Farmers M Route 3 West and Gordo

The American Drea Fredericksburg Comm performs in Hurkamp P invited. For info fredericksburgcommunit

Gospel Feast Hosted Assisted living Locators End Alzheimer's Featur 4Pm Host church New V 4956 Southpoint Pkwy,

DAR of events

ple a day (and all the fruits keep illness away. Learn the plant-centered diet, 7-8:30 Conference Rooms 5 and 6, vd, Stafford. Co-sponsored g Food Co-op. .com

cert Series Presented by the useum FREE public concert 7 - 9 PM in historic Market Princess Anne Street.: The

s Run, 6600 River Road 7pait and cast your line to ervoir. Private boats will be only if they meet proper ight fishing but all boats r by 12:30am. Grills and l over the park no need to ons? Call Motts Reservoir t FredParksRec.com

Juneteenth Day of Remembrance, New City Fellowship, 200 Pr.Edward St. 10a-7p ree event includes entertainment, song, music, spoken word, speeches, dance, food and drink, art, staffed tables with great information from local community organizations, crafts and personally made items being sold

Father's Day

Saturday. $10 per person, children 3 and under free. Children (17yrs and younger) must be accompanied by adult. Pre-registration is required FredParksRec.com

Open Bluegrass Jam, Sunken Well Tavern, 7-9p

Saturday, June 22

Sunday, June 16

Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 7a-2p Monday, June 17 Dixie Power Trio @CRRL popular summer concert series, Music on the Steps, downtown Branch, 1201 Caroline Street, 7 p.m.,Lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics are welcome. In case of inclement weather, concerts move inside to the theater 7p

Tuesday, June 18

SPANCLISH & Touch a Truck: : Picnic in the Park, Hurkamp Park 11:30- 1:30pm

Wednesday, June 19

mp Park, 7a-2p

National Martini Day

rmers Market from 9am to 500 William Street, FXBG raftspeople share their e park Free admission, be r way through the farmers

Sunken Well Trivia tonight starting at 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage, ~ Come and match wits against the finest minds in Fredericksburg! Compete for Honor, Glory, and Prizes!!

arket @ Commuter Lot at on Road, 8a -1pm open

m Concert , 7-8:15p munity Concert Band ParkFree admission, public o 540-372-1086 or tyband.com

by BrightStar Care and to benefit 2019 Walk To ring Local Gospel Choirs. Vision Ministries located at FXBG 22407

Sounds of Summer Concert Series Presented by the Fredericksburg Area Museum FREE public concert every Friday night from 7 - 9 PM in historic Market Square located at 907 Princess Anne Street.: Bruce Middle Trio: Blues, Rock, Jazz

Friday, June 21

Summer Solstice Soiree on the Rappahannock River featuring Christian Renault of LaPetite Jazz Night & Peter Mealy & Laurie Rose Griffin will provide music for your dining & dancing pleasure under he stars! Dinner catered by Chef Derek. Cah Bar & Silent Auction. Benefiting ArtsLive. Tkts: artsLIVE.org, 540-374-5040 Great American Backyard Camp-out , Dixon Park Enjoy an evening of games, campfire, s'mores and activities at the pool. Patrons will have the opportunity to camp at Dixon Park and enjoy dinner and breakfast poolside. Set up your tent outside the pool area and enjoy swimming and games into the night and early morning! Check in at 6pm on Friday and check out by 10am on

Spotsylvania Farmers Market @ Commuter Lot at Route 3 West and Gordon Road, 8a -1pm open

Sunday, June 23

Open Bluegrass Jam, Sunken Well Tavern, 7-9p Oil Painting with Kimberly Splain Two-hour startto-finish class teaches landscape, seascape, floral and wildlife painting techniques. Begin and complete a seasonal oil painting based on demonstrated techniques. Take home a finished painting at end of each class. All materials supplied. FCCA, 2-4p kimsplain@aol.com. $

Monday, June 25

Wednesday, June 26

Civil War Round Table of Fredericksburg guest speaker, David Bastian presentation on the Union canal across De Soto point, which was built with the intent to bypass Vicksburg and make taking the city unnecessary for the control of the Mississippi River. David explores Vicksburg's geographical importance and the topographical characteristics that made it so defensible. Round Table meets at UMW Jepson Alumni Center, 6-9pm.

Friday, June 28

Night Catfishing @Motts Run, 6600 River Road 7p1a. Come hook your bait and cast your line to catch catfish in the Reservoir. Private boats will be allowed on the water only if they meet proper VDGIF standards for night fishing but all boats must be off the water by 12:30am. Grills and picnic tables available all over the park no need to bring your own.Questions? Call Motts Reservoir (540) 786-8989 or visit FredParksRec.com

Saturday, June 29

Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 7a-2p Spotsylvania Farmers Market @ Commuter Lot at Route 3 West and Gordon Road, 8a -1pm open

Laurie Rose Griffin & Peter Mealy @CRRL popular summer concert series, Music on the Steps, downtown Branch, 1201 Caroline St, 7p.m., Lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics are welcome. In case of inclement weather, concerts inside theater 7p

World Heritage Festival, Riverfront Park, Sophia St, 11a-6p. Taste delicious ethnic ethic food, get refreshed with a scoop of ice cream or shaved ice or even a fresh smoothie, while enjoying a cultural show on the main stage

Tuesday, June 25

Sunday, June 30

Karen Jonas & Beach Day: Picnic in the Park, Hurkamp Park 11:30- 1:30pm

Open Bluegrass Jam, Sunken Well Tavern, 7-9p

Wednesday, June 24

Sunken Well Trivia tonight starting at 7:45pm, 720 Littlepage, ~ Come and match wits against the finest minds in Fredericksburg!

Friday, June 28

If you are reading this 263rd issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 22nd year of continuous publication! If you are an advertiser, list your events. Deadline for July 2019 issue is June 20th. To submit events go to frontporchfredericksburg.com/submit

3454 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join

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June 2019

history’s stories

FXBG AGRICULTURAL FAIR By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks

Recently while looking at some of our family heirlooms I found some blue ribbons that my mother received from the Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair for her crafts and jellies dated in the 1960's. What fond memories of the Fair that continues to draw crowds even today Fair General Travis Manager, Bullock, a friend since our school days at James Monroe, advised me how busy his job is with events scheduled all twelve months of the year, such as monthly Auction, Crab Feast, Dog Shows, Cider Festivals etc., and ending with a Family New Years Eve celebration on December 31st. The oldest event locally is the Fredericksburg Dog Mart established in 1698 and now in its 321st year. The Fair is not far behind established in 1738 by the Virginia House of Burgess. It is the oldest Agricultural Fair in the United States. In the beginning the Fair was held twice a year in June and October. The main attraction in the 1700's was Horse racing; Fredericksburg had a Jockey Club with many local horse owners and jockeys in the membership. From 1881-1886 there were no Fairs. The advent of the Circus made the event a family affair. Performers, hot air balloons and events for farmers attracted large crowds. The Fair was the main attraction for the area until the Depression which caused it to be closed for sixteen years until the time of World War II, when a group of farmers created a Fair association along with the Jaycees. Gene Rowell a Jaycee and local farmer John Orrock is credited with starting the Fair as we see it today. The first big tent was put up in 1948 with entertainment, livestock and homemaking exhibits with arts and crafts and commercial spaces. The Fair was held in several locations, one being near the river in the Normandy Village area. Today many locals call that area the "old fair grounds" when speaking of the area. In 1949 the Fair moved to the present site. I can remember in the early days (50's-60's) the schools would close early for the "Fair Parade" and "Kids Day". We would all be excited about the rides and food. There was even an automobile oval racetrack built on the site where local drivers such as: George Powell, Clyde Carnohan, Carlton Coleman, Jimmy Dillon, Clay Eastridge, Wilson Seay and many others would race modified automobiles for cash and trophies. Fredericksburg Women's Club started the Fair beauty pageant with Kay Jenks Davies who ran it for many years. Caressa Cameron who won Miss Fredericksburg Fair in 2005, went on to become Miss American 2010. Today they have Junior Miss, Pre-Teen Miss and Tiny Miss Fredericksburg Fair. Since the 1950's when Kathleen Howard began the Homemaking exhibits along with Elinor Dickinson. They have hundreds of entries each year from quilts, cakes, jellies etc., to judge and award ribbons. Shirley Boggs advised me that she started out as Secretary for the Fair and later became Kathleen Howard's companion in the Homemaking exhibits. Shirley is still a judge for the event. Gene Rowell (Granddaddy of Fredericksburg Fair) was in the job forty-seven years. The Commercial Building is named in his honor. Richard Limerick who assisted Gene since 1966, took over as Manager upon Mr. Rowell's retirement. Becky Kain Dagg is the current President of the Fair. Becky has been involved with the Fair for over 50 years. In the early years Southern States and Roxbury Mills sold tickets to the rides and sponsored a parade in the City with a reception at the old Princess Anne Hotel. Today there are still many livestock entries, even with all the developments in the area. Mark your calendar for the week of July 26 - August 4, for a fun time family event that your parents, grand-parents and in many cases great-grand-parents attended.

Dedicated to the memory of: Bill Evans, Shirley Gosper, Malone Schooler & Betty Poole

Tuffy is the Front Porch resident FXBG historian

June 2019

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OUR HERITAGE

A look at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center collection

spinning:necessity to folkart By Donna McCague Every spring I bring out my summer clothes which were neatly folded and stored away for the winter. Wool is replaced by cotton and linen for the next several months. I have to admit I like the feel of natural fabrics. Cotton and linen are perfect for the hot, humid days of a Virginia summer which can linger well into October. Automation has made the availability of such fabrics widespread and economical. But it wasn’t always the case. Spinning preceded more advanced production methods centuries before the Industrial Revolution of the late 1800s. Hand spinning came first, when for thousands of years fibers were spun by using hand tools many of us could not identify today, the spindle and the distaff. There is evidence that spinning wheels started to surge in India between 500 and 1000 A.D. Some believe they were first evident in Egypt, another ancient civilization. Spinning wheels “migrated” to Europe in the middle ages and became a necessary fixture in the home. The Industrial Revolution mechanized the process of making yarn for fabrics, and the proliferation of textiles began. Virginia has a long tradition of spinning which has become a folk art in the Old Dominion state. Learning how to spin was an early form of job training in colonial times. This practice was often the case with the overseers of the poor in Spotsylvania County. In the mid-1700s to the early 1800s, young girls became indentured servants to financially stable families. Indenture was typically a contract between individuals to work a set amount of time to earn one’s freedom. In the case of the indentured young girls, they were given food, clothing, and lodging while learning the trade of spinning. When their indenture was

completed, they had a skill to support themselves and a few shillings in their pocket. Records of indentures of this nature can be found at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center. When spinning one’s own yarn was no longer a necessity, it evolved into a folk art. Spinners of today have preserved an ancient custom that would otherwise be lost to the ages. Eleanor Roosevelt was enamored with crafts made in Virginia. Star reported on June 6, The Free Lance-S 1940, that the First Lady along with several prominent women from Washington, D.C., made a special trip to see the many and diverse crafts made at the “Old Dominion Home Industries Cooperative” in Stafford County. Mrs. E. H. Randall had the unique opportunity to demonstrate her skill in the art of spinning to the First Lady. What a wonderful experience that must have been! Today, spinning guilds have sprung up throughout the country and internationally– an enjoyable craft preserving a tradition for generations to come. Donna McCague is a Volunteer Coordinator at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in a Museum? old town hall/market square By jon gerlach

Who hasn't walked through the rooms of this historic building and imagined what happened there: a market and gathering place where, centuries past, town council met to decide matters great and small? Standing proud at the corner of Princess Anne and William Streets, Old Town Hall/Market Square is a rare architectural gem that continues to write

history and engage the community. Home to many fascinating stories, Old Town Hall was built around 1816. According to the Interior Historic Structure Report, Old Town Hall "stands as one of V i r g i n i a ' s outstanding public buildings of the Federal period and is one of the nation's few remaining early market houses." The identities of the people who built it are unknown, adrift in the murky depths of un-written history, but one man, George Ellis, might have been involved. He designed and built other buildings in town during that period. Helen Ross has located Ellis' notebook - so stay tuned for more on this.

Many of the workers who raised Old Town Hall (and much of early Fredericksburg) were no doubt slaves laboring in the nearby stone quarries and on-site. The first floor was built of stone, accessed through eight stone arches, all of Rappahannock it fashioned from Freestone, a local manifestation of Aquia sandstone that outcropped at several places within a few miles of the site. The top floors were made of brick. There was no stairway from the first floor to the second floor. The first floor served as an open-a air market with a dirt floor and the upper stories were used as the center of government and for events involving the area's social elites. Archaeological excavations in 2000-2003 by the Center for Historic Preservation of the University of Mary Washington uncovered some 30,000 artifacts, shedding much new light on Market Square. Oyster shells and butchered animal bones speak to a bustling public space, and human burials from the late 18th Century reveal the health and diet of our early residents. Today, Old Town Hall houses the Fredericksburg Area Museum (www.famva.org), which does a wonderful job interpreting the rich history of the area for children and adults alike. Its mission is based on inclusion, integrity, credibility and relevance, "providing both lessons and inspiration as we work together to forge a greater community." President and CEO Sara Poore is passionate about using the museum to tell the untold stories of Native Americans, and non-native peoples from the Colonial Period through the 20th Century, many of whom are lost to history, and even the stories of today's residents. Current exhibits include "These Old Walls: A Town and Its Stories" and a light-hearted exhibition called "People & Their Pets." In

keeping with its long history as a public space, Market Square is being re-used as a community gathering spot for a variety of public events including the popular Sounds of Summer Concert Series. Market Square and the Old Town Hall building are both available for rentals (see www.famva.org for more information). So, what's in a Museum? Fascinating stories about people - past and present - and a vital community center, of which we can all be proud.

An attorney and retired archaeologist, Jon Gerlach chairs the Architectural Review Board in Fredericksburg. Photo courtesy of Fredericksburg Area Museum

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June 2019

Senior Care protect your eyes Dog Walking Pet Sitting Companion Play Time & Mini Furies, Too!

By Karl Karch

(540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “City PetSitting”

While playing golf two months ago, I noticed I had difficulty seeing the ball in flight. My wife said it probably was because it was hazy out. Days later, I had difficulty with blurry near vision particularly in my right eye. I made an appointment with my optometrist. She confirmed vision in my right eye had noticeably declined from my January visit and scheduled me to see an ophthalmologist. He confirmed my optometrist’s finding that cataracts were causing my problem. I am scheduled for surgery in June which coincidentally is Cataract Awareness Month. Thus, the topic of this Senior Care article. So, what did I uncover in my research about cataracts? According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), a cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision. It can occur in either or both eyes and cannot spread from one eye to the other. Most cataracts develop slowly over time and affect people over age 50. About half of the U.S. population has a cataract by age 65, and nearly everyone over age 75 has at least a mild cataract in one or both eyes. By 2050, the number of people in the U.S. with a cataract is expected to double from 24.4 million to about 50 million. The most common symptoms of a cataract are: blurry vision; poor night vision; increased sensitivity to light; problems driving at night (glare from oncoming headlights; light sources have “halos”; colors seem faded; double vision or multiple images in one eye; and frequent prescription changes. Mild cataracts often cause little or no vision problems. Some cataracts never reach the stage where they need removal. Eyeglasses and better lighting may help improve developing symptoms. However, over time, the cataracts may increase in size and symptoms worsen. If a loss of

June 2019

vision affects everyday activities such as driving, reading, or watching TV, the only effective treatment is surgery. Cataract surgery is one of the most common operations performed in the United States and is done on an outpatient basis. It’s also one of the safest and most effective types of surgery. The actual surgery takes only minutes. A tiny incision is made in the front surface of the eye and the surgeon removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with a man-made lens. A standard lens replacement is covered by Medicare and most health insurance plans. However, a vision corrected lens will result in additional out-of-pocket costs. The good news is that once removed, a cataract will not reform. Doctors don’t know exactly what causes cataracts so there is no proven way to prevent them. While age is a key factor, there are identified lifestyle risk factors that increase the danger of developing cataracts. Examples include: overexposure to sunlight, obesity, diabetes, smoking, previous eye disorders or surgery, high blood pressure, alcoholism, head trauma, and prolonged use of corticosteroid medications. In my case, I believe overexposure to sunlight resulting from not wearing 100% UVA and UVB sunglasses may have accelerated the development of my cataracts. Take care of your eyes by regular visits to your eye doctor and by wearing proper sunglasses while outside to reduce the risk or slow the development of cataracts as you age.

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

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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s All Energy calm motion sickness & Nausea by christina ferber

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There is nothing worse than the feeling of nausea, especially if it occurs in the form of motion sickness that keeps you from enjoying all that summer has to offer. I used to be famously seasick if I just looked at a boat, but with the help of Eden Energy Medicine (EEM) and other natural techniques, I was able to more than tolerate a trip on the ocean last summer without turning green. The following exercises can help to calm any form of nausea, no matter the cause. The first thing I did was to make sure my energies were crossing, and I was grounded. Doing the Daily Energy Routine (DER) (Front Porch- Jan and Feb 2017 and at my website) at least once a day balanced my energies, but two exercises from that routine that I focused on doing the most were the Hook-up and Cross Crawl. up, place one finger For the Hook-u in your bellybutton and the other in the middle of your forehead. Press in and up and hold it until you feel more grounded and together. You can also use a flat hand if this position feels funny to you. Crawl starts with a The Cross-C shoulder pull by placing your right hand on your left shoulder. With a little pressure, push in and drag your hand across your body to the opposite hip. Repeat on both sides a few times, and then move to an exaggerated walk as you cross over each hand to the opposite knee. If your left knee is up, your right hand should cross. Another part of the DER that helps with grounding is the Stomach Thump, which is simply tapping on your cheekbones with your fingertips. To ground even more and help to alleviate nausea, instead of tapping, place your thumbs right below your cheekbones and press in and up with deep pressure. While doing this, you can place your fingers at points right above your eyebrows with a light pressure to help with any dizziness or headaches you might feel. A famous acupressure point for dizziness and nausea is Pericardium 6. It is located on the inside of your wrist, about

three finger widths down from the wrist crease. You can apply a firm pressure on this point (but not to the point of pain) or tap on it. Work it on both sides of the body. Stomach 36 is another acupoint that can help. It is about four finger widths down from the bottom of your knee on the outside area of your shin bone. Work this point the same way you worked the previous one on both sides of the body. To help the dizziness often associated with motion sickness, I traced a figure eight pattern around my eyes. I like to do this using my fingertips and slowly trace around one eye, then across the nose and over to the other eye and around it. Repeat a few times. These exercises can help to balance the energies of the body before a trip and can also be done during any episodes of nausea. There are other points and protocols to help with nausea, but I found the above the most helpful for me. See if they work for you and then visit www.itsallenergywellness.com for more ideas. Christina Ferber is a Certified Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner. www.itsallenergywellness.com photo courtesy of exploreim.ucla.edu

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June 2019

Emancipated Patients palliative care By Patrick Neustatter, MD Many people are familiar with hospice care and it’s benefits. This is most commonly sought for patients who have cancer and to be eligible, your doctor has to certify your life expectancy is six months or less. The specialized care combining emotional and spiritual support that hospice provides, all aimed at maximizing quality of life rather than quantity, often has people asking “why didn’t we do this sooner?” (There is a tendency feel it is “throwing in the towel” and to delay until too late - the average duration is something ridiculous like two weeks). Now there is a growing movement to make that same approach available to more than just dying patients, with the relatively new specialty of palliative care. This is available to anyone with a serious illness, explained Mary Washington Healthcare palliative care doctors, William Anderson, MD – an internist turned geriatrician turned palliative care specialist. And Anson Pham, MD, FACP also an internist who did a fellowship in geriatrics then one in palliative care - which has become a requirement since 2012 with palliative care becoming its own recognized subspecialty.

Team Based Approach Like hospice, the crucial feature is a team approach. Not just specially trained doctors, but nurse practitioners, specialized nurses, palliative social workers, psychologists, clergy and others to provide support for more than just the ailing body, Drs. Anderson and Pham explained this as we sat around the table in the large room that acts as their office in the Ambulatory Care Center at Mary Washington Hospital, with people bustling to and fro and phones ringing. I had come to impose on their busy schedule there to find out about this idea that I am relatively unfamiliar with – though they also provide services at Stafford Hospital. “Most primary care doctors are able to provide primary palliative care and talk with their patients about how they would want to be cared for in general” Dr. Pham told me when I asked what they do that a persons primary care doctor can’t. But with a palliative care program they have more time and expertise to go much further “We try to find out what’s most important to the patient and the family” Dr. Anderson chipped in – which very

June 2019

often is not a medical decision, but a personal one that takes account of a persons beliefs and priorities. And often involves the whole family. “We may talk to the family for an hour or more about issues like ‘does it make sense any more to go to the hospital” he added. Often the reaction is amazement he says. People leap at the idea, saying “no one has ever talked to us this way before.”

Beyond Hospice Mary Washington has had a hospice program for some 25 years, but now it is expanding into palliative care. A trend that is occurring nationwide, and generally reflecting the thinking that patients with not much longer to live, aggressive and skilled quality of life management is the way to go rather than soldiering on with attempts at cure – which, ironically, often doesn’t keep the patient alive longer. And not infrequently ends up with distressing and disabling side effects of treatment and the horror show scenario of dying in ICU, on a ventilator, with a tube in every orifice, and unable to make your goodbyes. There is no formal clinic but Drs. Anderson and Pham are kept busy doing consultations in Mary Washington Hospital, and seeing patients in nursing facilities. And like the days of old – the palliative care team, with its touchy-ffeely emphasis - do house calls. It isn’t very time efficient they admit, but provides invaluable information about the patient’s context. As a doctor, I would like to see all my patients receive help with their psychosocial and spiritual distress that is such a common, and aggravating factor, in people with chronic illness. But now, with the expertise of Drs. Anderson and Pham, and their palliative care team, patients with any kind of serious chronic illness, whether it’s something like heart, lungs, kidneys, mental function - and not just cancer - can get help that has the potential to make suffering a chronic debilitating disease far more tolerable.

Patrick Neustatter is the Medical Director of the Moss Free Clinic. Read his book, "Managing Your Doctor, The Smart Patient's Guide to Getting Effective, Affordable Healthcare", available at Amazon.com Contact him at pneustatter@aol.com

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Wills and Trusts Provide for Incapacity Trusts for Minor Children Wealth Preservation Trusts Avoid Probate AhearnEstateLaw.com

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Art of Aging Expo Celebrate & Enjoy Life By Pam Lake Pell

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

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 12, Partners in Aging will host the thirteenth 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 non-profit 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 to be “Sandwiches” - 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, 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 about 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: ~Stop the Bleed! for emergency response ~Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Dementia Care ~Estate Planning and Living Trusts ~Understanding Medicare Part D and Part B Rx’s ~I’m too old to be poisoned, right? ~AARP’s Brain Health, Home Fit and Prepare to Care ~Charlotte Jones talks “Eldercare is Making Me Fat!” Demos include: ~Dancing with Olivia ~Hand Massages ~Wegmans offers Healthy Cooking & ~Tastings and Ask Your Pharmacist ~Rock Steady Boxing for Parkinson’s Patients Screenings include: ~Diabetes, Glucose and BMI ~Blood Pressure and Stroke Risk ~Vision and Hearing ~Leg & Vein Screening 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 Pell is a Care Coordinator and does Marketing & Business Development for Comfort Keepers, & Vice President of Partners in Aging and Co-Chair of the Art of Aging Committee

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June 2019

Celebration of Ceramic Art 3rd annual Sophia Street Pottery Throwdown For the third year in a row, on Saturday, June 8th, Sophia Street in downtown Fredericksburg will be the location of a celebration of ceramic art. Over 20 exhibitors will be set up to display and sell their pottery.

In addition to being able to purchase the work of these artists, there will be demonstrations in wheel throwing as well as a tent set up with pottery wheels on for the public to participate in a hands-o

Dan Finnegan and decorated by Trista Chapman will be raffled with proceeds benefitting Empower House. We are proud to highlight three more incredibly talented artists that will be part of the event! Steven Summerville: (left) “My life-long passion for pottery was sparked when I was a 10-year-old child in Kalamazoo, Michigan. A potter came to our school to give a demonstration and I was immediately transfixed by the magical process of throwing pots on the wheel. My own journey to mastery over the past 25 years has sometimes taken a circuitous route, the magical process has demanded dedication, discipline and courage. In return it has brought a full measure of joy, a livelihood I take pride in, and many wonderful, long-lasting friendships. Today I work in the studio I built at my home in Bumpass, Virginia. I tend my garden and goats, make pots 8-12 hours a day and share my home with friends often. I feel truly blessed to have this lifestyle that has been supported by a large and loyal following of customers who have discovered my work at craft shows up and down the East coast.”

painting plants and flowers. The incredible hues of the tropics, permanently influenced the color palette for my creations. I am a founding member and President of Artful Dimensions Gallery in Fredericksburg, where my studio is located.”

Christine Lush-R Rodriguez: decided to combine my love for ocean creatures, flowers and plants. Paying attention to the fine details of flower parts and combining them with different elements of eyeless ocean creatures. The

Maria

Steve Summerville experience with clay and throwing on the wheel. There will be experienced helpers to guide and teach anyone who is interested in trying this. There will be live music, refreshments and event T-shirts for sale. A collaborative piece of pottery thrown by

Christine Lush-R Rodriguez: (above) “I have been creating organic sculptures in clay since 1994. While searching for a focus for my work, I

unique sculptures that evolved, have a variety of tentacles, seeds, shells, barnacles, petals and coral polyps. As an educator at heart, I pursue my two loves, art and teaching. I received a BS in Art Education from Kutztown University in 1984. Shortly after that, I taught art in St. Croix, USVI. While there; many afternoons were spent scuba diving, collecting shells, and photographing and

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June 2019

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Maria Stone: (above) Maria Stone is a full time studio potter living in Richmond. She graduated from the University of Mary Washington with a dual degree in Art History and Studio Art. She now works under her brand 'Butternut Press' hand building functional ceramic wares and incorporating drawing and painting onto the surfaces of her pottery. She travels to fine craft shows throughout the MidStone Atlantic States and has been featured in print media, blogs and pop-up shops nationally. Maria is a member of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen, exhibits her work at Shockoe Bottom Clay and works out of her home studio. Maria teaches ceramic classes at the Visual Arts Center of Richmond.

~ Sophia Street Studio

Name This House

Stories

of fredericksburg

win downtown gift certificate

ronald walton: practice art

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!

Practice Art: Mood Doesn't Matter… The Ronald Walton Theory Ronald Walton's Solo Exhibit career began in 1975 in Panora's Gallery in New York. His ethic of "Art should be practiced", no matter what one's mood is part of the reason behind his robust career. Whether it is a solo or group exhibit, corporate collection or book cover, Walton knows one thing…he will be creating. Walton's became acquainted with Fredericksburg through his son, Eric Walton, who juried a show at Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts in 2018. "I really liked the vibe that the gallery was giving off," explains Walton, "Plus, Fredericksburg has a growing Art Community, which I wanted to expose my art to." Born in New York City, Walton attended Brooklyn College. He currently resides in Petersburg and a part-time resident of Brooklyn. His artwork has been exhibited nationally and internationally. Walton has been recognized and acknowledged for creating the "Rollcubistic" style of portraying the human form. Walton describes his 'rollcubistic' style as "a unique technique of painting, which encompasses the use of round sphere-like balls patterned to form a humanistic figure."

Walton describes his work as multi-dimensional in approach and works with pen, ink, pastels and oils. Through his use of color and depth in the artwork a luxurious and illuminating affect is revealed. "When I am painting…the backdrop of jazz music is always my 'go to' inspirational genre that puts me in the 'zone' when c r e a t i n g … " expounds Walton. In his early years, Walton's "works featured collages showing the mean streets and reality of hard economic conditions characteristic of the Civil Rights Era." After four decades of creating art”, Walton proposes, he is "poised and positioned to begin the 21st century as a major voice in the movement to express 'cultural pluralism' through art." Walton will present a Guest Artist solo exhibit in the Frederick Gallery of the Fredericksburg Center of the Creative Arts entitled, "Ronald Walton: The Artist" during June with the Opening Reception during First Friday on June 7th starting at 6pm. Dawn Whitmore is a photographer, better known as the "Old Barn Lady" in FXBG. She loves & photographs old barns throughout Virginia photo by Connie Grant

Last Month’s House: 804 Cornell Ave The Winner of a gift certificate from Heather Boutique, 721 Caroline St is Beckett and Beatrice Forbes Uptown College Girl You are such a pretty girl, classy even still, on a street near our college, where I pass you every day Your appearance changes, with each owner's love and will. Not many people in town anymore, know of the huge business, that is no more. Your block of houses, was built by, " the Sylvania Corporation," for their "hoity-toity" executive guys, who lived within your walls. The many years have come and gone, your patina growing more treasured, with each passing year. Hey old gal, what is this I see, solar panels, new trellis, to go with secret passages, from days of old. You really make me smile my dear, so I share you with our, "Front Porch" friends, who are trendy, who are wild, "Mystery House" detectives!

Free Concert Every Friday, 7-9p Market Square front porch fredericksburg

June 2019

Art in the Burg Galleries in June "From Life", Chris O'Kelley Art First Gallery, 824 Caroline Street Opening Reception: First Friday, 6- 9pm

"Useful Once More", Renee Nelson Artists' Alliance, 100 Taylor St, Suite 101, Colonial Beach Opening Reception June 14, 6-9 9pm Exhibit runs until July 7 Renee's show , "Useful Once More" celebrates the re-purposing of objects normally discarded. She enjoys discovering new uses for things, and has found that encaustic is a diverse medium, ideal for embedding materials, both for beauty and texture ~Rob Rudick

Lisa Gillen

“Portrait 2”, Chris O’Kelley Exhibit on View through June 30 This show grew out of O'Kelley's love for portraiture that was first developed in high school under his art teacher, Kandra Orr. She introduced him to life drawing and drawing portraits from life. "We used to draw whoever was sitting across from us in class," says O'Kelley, He received a Bachelors of Arts in Art History from the University of Mary Washington Local artists, Ed King and Bruce Day have been very influential in his portrait work. The recently deceased Day's legacy lives on through having given O'Kelley a deeper appreciation and gusto for working from life and O'Kelley worked closely with King while creating paintings for this show. Often times both artists worked from the same model and O'Kelley says King's "practical as well as aesthetic contribution has been invaluable to me." All of the paintings in this show are oil on either canvas or board. ~ Casey Shaw

“Crossroads”, Renee Nelson

Kate Guy

"The Roots of our Love”, Lisa Gillen Brush Strokes Gallery , 824 Caroline St Opening Reception First Friday, June 7 "The Roots of our Love," the exhibit is an array of fused-glass creations .including decorative plates, panels and pendants with motifs of flowers, plants, animals, and organic elements. "Everyone has some connection with nature and it is unique for each person, just as their experience of a work of art is," said Gillen. Lisa added a small kiln to her studio and was creating jewelry and small plates when fellow Brush Strokes glass artist Ben Childers told her that was moving on to new medium of painting and offered to pass on to her the equipment in his studio. "He had a larger kiln and I had room for everything so I leaped at the opportunity," she said. Ben's kiln opened the threshold for Lisa to express her creativity larger works, such as the panels and plates that will be part of her June exhibit, which will truly be a manifestation of "The Roots of our (and her) Love." ~Collette Caprara

Kate Guy's Photography Darbytown Art Studio, 241 Charles St Opening Reception First Friday, June 7. Kate will be supporting Friends of the Rappahannock during the month of June by donating a portion of her sales, including items sold during the First Friday event. Free Trolley stops at our door every 20 minutes!! ~ Jeannie Ellis

“Blue Front Cafe”, Norma Woodward Fredericksburg Photography Club's Annual Show. June 6-9 9, Dorothy Hart Community Center

June 2019

"A Marbled Menagerie, Lynette Reed Artful Dimensions, 922 Caroline Street Lynette, influenced by her paternal grandmother who was an artist, is a painter, fiber artist, book artist and marble artist. Her unique works often combine her talents in several of these mediums. Throughout June, her work will be featured at Artful Dimensions Gallery

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Lynette Reed

200 William St Downtown Fredericksburg 540-373-4421

On Stage! a night on broadway returns to sHS by Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy “A Night on Broadway is the chance for Stafford High School c h o i r Stafford High School chorus students perform favorite songs from students to Broadway musicals at “A Night on Broadway” showcase their musical ‘A Night on Broadway’ Takes Audience to talents by singing songs from well-known the Bright Lights of the ‘Big Apple’ at musicals,” said Stafford High School Stafford High School, June 8, Choral Director Joe Eveler. “The event Annual Event Features Dinner, Show has become such a tradition and so and Silent Auction popular since it began in 2008 that When the curtains go up, the students, teachers and the public from the surrounding community look forward talent comes out at “A Night on Broadway” performed by the award- to attending every year.” What began as a suggestion from winning choir department students at a high school student more than a decade Stafford High Schoo. Students will belt out songs spanning the decades from some of ago has turned into an annual event that’s the most renowned Broadway musicals, also the biggest fundraiser for the Stafford High School Choir Department. such as “Joanna” from “Sweeney Todd”; Students look forward to choosing their “Suddenly Seymour” from “Little Shop of favorite songs, rehearsing and creating Horrors”; “I Think I Got You Beat” from costumes and accessories to complement “Shrek”; and “Proud of Your Boy” from the musicals several months in advance. “Aladdin.”

Eveler said many students who’ve participated in the show previously have continued their love of music by going on to study it in colleges and universities, such as the Peabody Conservatory, Westminster Choir College and James Madison University. A few of Stafford High School’s graduates have landed roles in off-Broadway and children’s theater. Guests can opt for the show only or dinner and show. Dinner guests will find the excitement of Broadway begins when they are seated at tables topped with centerpieces featuring favorite musicals. Items on the menu will be named after famous Broadway composers. The dinner includes seasoned chicken, roasted potatoes, green beans, salad and rolls, as well as cupcakes for dessert. Another popular component of the evening is the silent auction, which will consist of more than 15 gift baskets containing gift certificates for local restaurants, breweries, movie theaters, bowling, a dance studio and a portrait studio, as well as a University of Mary

Washington theater package, a coffeethemed basket, sports items/memorabilia and more. Funds raised for “A Night on Broadway” will support all areas of the choral program, including competition fees and the purchase of music and uniforms. Dinner begins at 5:30 p.m., and curtains open at 7 p.m. Tickets for the dinner and show are $20 for adults and $17 for children, students and senior citizens. Tickets for the show only are $10 for adults and $7 for children, students and senior citizens. Dinner and show tickets must be pre-purchased by emailing evelerja@staffordschools.net. Show-only tickets are available at the door. Stafford High School is located at 63 Indians Lane in Falmouth, Va.

Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy is the president of Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy Public Relations/Writing. .

Give a Child

“In the Moment”

Something to

by Beverley Coates

Think About

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

Artist on site Saturdays

540.371.4099

810 Caroline Street, Downtown Fredericksburg

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

810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684

Companions fun in the sun by Gerri Reid dvm

Summer is here! Kids are starting to get out of school so let the FUN begin! It is time for long days at the pool, family gathering and lots of cookouts. And don't forget about Family vacations. But what about your pet? What should we do when we go away or even have people over? Well, let's talk about the precautions we should take for our pets this summer. Summertime is the time of the year where we spend more time outdoors. And pet owners tend to walk their pets more. Here a few tips to keep your pet safe when outdoors or walking. Be mindful of the pavement/asphalt. I always tell my clients that if you can't wake barefoot on it, your pet can't either. Damage to the paw pads is common injury at this time of the year. And don't forget to bring some water along with you especially on long walks/hikes. Pets can suffer a heat stroke if out in the sun for extended periods of time. Always ensure your pet has a shaded area to lay in addition to fresh water. Remember, the best time to walk your pet is early in the morning or late evening when it is not too hot. Many of us love to enjoy a day at the beach. And for some of us, we will bring our pets along to enjoy some fun in the sun and sand. When at the beach, I always suggest a life preserver for your pet. Yes, dogs can swim but when at the beach they can get caught in a wave or a current. Be sure your pet does not ingest sand as this can cause digestive issues. Oh, and beware of sand fleas! Apply monthly flea/tick prevention to help prevent any infestation. For pets that are white in color, try to decrease their exposure to the sun as they can get sunburned easily. Apply sunscreen to their ears and bridge of nose will help will in the sun. And don't

June 2019

forget, sand gets hot too, so avoid walking your pet on the sand when the sun is at its peak. Dogs love to ride in the car with the windows down and their ears flopping in the wind. As we venture out with our pets in tow, remember to secure your pet in their seat. You can purchase a pet seat pet online or at your local pet retail store. This will ensure their safety as well as your safety when driving. And if you decide to just "run" into the store to get something, the average person takes at least 10 minutes to come back out to their car. Leaving your pet is never a good idea as your car can heat up fairly quickly. The average temperature here in the summer is 85 degrees and in just 10 minutes, your car will feel like 104 degrees! Too many pets are loss due to the negligence of pet owners by being left in the car. So, it is wise NOT to leave your pet in your car for any amount of time. So, get outdoors with your pet and enjoy the Sunshine! As much as we love the summer, I think we all love our pets a bit more and want them happy & safe! Following these helpful tips will ensure you and your pet have the best summer ever!

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

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Astrology & You

THE POETRY MAN

sun sign self care

By Frank Fratoe

By Dianne Bachman

The Swan From a distance she compares to a lotus riding on the pond/ her semblance clear turned upside-down and never divergent/ till breeze arouses cool water brushing along her feathers Then she raises up into the urgent air as wings spread out/ climbing a tailwind to journey forward beyond the horizon/ and opens her being aloft without fear where heavens gleam.. Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city.in loves.

Rejuvenate, manage stress! This is part one of two—look for Libra through Pisces self- care in the July issue of Front Porch. If your birthday is: 3/21 to 3/30: Go for a brisk bike ride; lift some weights; try a new exercise routine 3/31 to 4/9: Get creative; pamper yourself with a new hairstyle; play games with friends 4/10 to 4/20: Take a Tai Chi or yoga class; plan an adventurous getaway 4/21 to 4/30: Enjoy a delicious meal by candlelight; buy a hammock for outside; get a massage 5/1 to 5/10: Create a healthy snack; try a new craft; work on a crossword or jigsaw puzzle 5/11 to 5/21: Have a special lunch to connect with a co-worker; search for four leafed clovers 5/22 to 5/31: Spend the afternoon perusing art galleries; talk with your favorite neighbor, knit 6/1 to 6/10: Visit an art gallery or interesting museum; enter in on a discussion forum; start a blog 6/11 to 6/21: Join a book club; leave a day totally unplanned to see what surprises come up

6/22 to 7/1: Plan a family game night; start a journal; enjoy a relaxing herbal bath 7/2 to 7/12: Wrap in a cozy blanket; brew a pot of chamomile tea; snuggle 7/13 to 7/22: Meditate; listen to soothing music; write down your insights and dreams 7/23 to 8/1: Throw a party; learn to play an instrument or explore a new medium of art; dance 8/2 to 8/12: Plan a trip to an exotic destination; attend a concert; feed your spirit through play 8/13 to 8/23: Attend a movie or play; try a walking meditation; go to a lively sporting event 8/24 to 9/3: Take time to breathe; make a list to organize those home fix it projects; exercise 9/4 to 9/13: Take a moment to appreciate your accomplishments; stretch your body; volunteer 9/14 to 9/22: Do a good deed; quiet your inner critic with a moment in nature; create an herb garden Now, here are some astrological happenings for June 2019: The Sun enters the sign of Cancer, June 21 at 11:54 a.m. EST New Moon in Gemini, squaring Chiron, June 4: This is a time to quiet our minds and to get calm so that we can allow our thoughts to identify what is important and filter out debris. A good time to set intentions through writing or talking things through with a trusted friend. Any work on gaining insight into personal dynamics is likely to have a favorable outcome. Full Moon in Sagittarius, squaring Chiron in Aries, June 17: A good period to expand our philosophies to include what

gives us meaning; optimism abounds and this is an excellent time to open to the energies of enthusiasm and adventure. Also, a good time to integrate any personal insights that began during the New moon earlier this month. Pluto within 3 to 5 degrees of Saturn in Capricorn: For the entire month, this conjunction can assist us in learning how to work under pressure, how to be persistent and to learn to be a bit more frugal with what we possess. A good time to review or create a household budget. Jupiter in Sagittarius squares Neptune in Pisces, throughout June: Our spiritual values evolve into a more concrete practice; now is a good time to focus on generosity and learning discernment. Consider charitable giving! Saturn in Capricorn opposes Mars in Cancer, June 5 to 22: There is opportunity to work with the roots of what blocks us, especially dealing with anger/frustration. This is the time for engaging in physical exercise to release pent up emotions and to let go. Mercury in Cancer conjunct Mars in Cancer, June 8 through the end of June: We benefit from focusing on standing our ground and setting boundaries; being more conscious of how we assert ourselves when our viewpoint is different. This can be a time when feelings from childhood arise, so any type of inner child work or reminiscence could be helpful. *Note: The more prominent these planets are in your chart, the more they will impact you personally.

Dianne Bachman is a psychotherapist and astrologer who practices in FXBG, is passionate about Astrology, and can be reached at dbachmanlcsw@gmail.com. Lower Downtown Greens photo by Dianne Bachman

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

June 2019

#FredStrong 5 Habits To Crush The Rest Of 2019

Here are 5 habits to help you crush the rest of 2019. 1. Wake up earlier “You’re more likely to act yourself into feeling, than feeling yourself into action.” — Dr. Jerome Bruner The one action that is totally under your control is how you begin your day. Do you realize how much less stress you will have if you woke up on time or…heaven forbid, early? You can control your health, emotions, dare I say, your destiny by merely starting your day earlier than usual. Start waking earlier.Then do this:

little

2. Drink more water As soon as you wake up in the morning, drink a HUGE glass of water. Drinking water first thing in the morning actually makes you more alert and wakes you up. Don’t believe me? I dare you to prove me wrong. One client told me that she was not sleepy on the commute home after she started to drink 24 oz of water in the morning and then throughout the day. I double dog dare you to try it. Then flush all those toxins down the toilet.

June 2019

A visual Celebration of our community

By Casey Alan Shaw

By Joan Geisler

According to the British philosopher, Alain de Botton, “Anyone who isn’t embarrassed of who they were last year probably isn’t learning enough.” How different is your life, right now, from where you were 12 months ago? What was the last time you flexed your courage muscles? If you’re ready to make wild progress during 2019, you need to make some tweaks. . You get to decide what you’re going to do. You get to decide how you’re going to live. Look around … No one is stopping you. Want to make a shift?

Fredericksburg Sketches

3. Put your phone on airplane mode more often Unless you are PODUS, no one needs you 24/7. I have another dare for you. I double dog dare you to wait an hour before you look at your phone in the morning. I am still befuddled to think people actually roll over in the morning, grab their phone and scroll FB before their feet hit the floor. Are these the same people who say they do not have time to exercise or meal prep? Do you realize how many hours of your life you have destroyed by mindlessly scrolling images? So take up the challenge. Do these first 3 habits and watch your life become amazing. 4. Go on walks A.M.A.P (as much as possible) Move more. Park far away, take steps, walk to co-workers desks instead of emailing. Lace up your sneakers and walk in the afternoon. Do you know that as little as 15 minute of walking after dinner will greatly improve digestion, insulin and cardio vascular health? Do you realize that you could be medicine free by committing to as little as 30 minutes of exercise a few days a week? Don’t be a statistic. You have total control over your health. No more excuses. 5. As much as it depends on you, live at peace with all mankind. Life and death are in the power of the tongue. What is desirable in a ‘man’ is his kindness. It is better for a ‘man’ to rule his tongue than he who takes a city. The tongue is among the smallest muscles but it can start a huge fire. Again, you have total control of what comes out of your mouth. You can speak life and you can speak death. Make your words like honey, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. Start with one habit and build upon it. You can do it. Joan Geisler is a Behavioral Change Specialist. www.8020healthyhabits

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SKETCH #55: “Painted Lady on Charles Street” by guest artist Stacy Giglio This month, I’m honored to share a sketch by Stacy Gaglio. Stacy hails from lovely Saratoga Springs, NY where she grew up in an artistic family and honed her drawing skills depicting the lovely architecture in that region. When she moved to the Fredericksburg area, Stacy joined Brush Strokes Gallery and turned her artistic vision to portraying downtown’s iconic buildings and creating custom house portraits. Above is a pen and ink and graphite sketch by Stacy of the iconic Victorian-style home on Charles Street known as “The Painted Lady.” Stacy normally creates full-color acrylics paintings, so it’s especially interesting to see how she gets to the bones of the building and concentrates on it’s beautiful non-“painted” qualities in this sketch. Casey Alan Shaw is a local artist. He exhibits his original artwork and limited-edition prints at Art First Gallery and a twww.caseyshaw.com.

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

Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged

DOWNTOWNERS bike works: tom eskam

by georgia Lee Strentz

Have you ever daydreamed about going back "home," where nothing has changed? The drugstore is the same, with the same name, same old stools you jump up on with shiny plastic covering. The same mirror, where your 16 year old face stares back at you, unchanged. (oh yes, for sure) In Fredericksburg, we have many places like that, (checkout the mirror in Goolricks drug store!) on Caroline St. Our town has a historic district of homes surrounding our downtown, each home a historical jewel. On weekends, in the summer, our Southern hospitality displays itself,with our Fredericksburgers waving at the tourists from their porches. It is to our town, that Tom Eskamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dad came with the military, to raise Tom and his 5 other children. As I sit in front of the fabulous coffee shop, Curitiba Art Cafe talking to Tom and the owner Frank Robinson, everyone who walks by seems to know Frank and Tom. Both Tom and Frank went to school in Stafford, Frank opened the coffee shop about a year ago and Tom's store, Bike Works is just down the street on William. Tom started cycling when he was 13, "just for the freedom." In those days the closest bike shop was a 20 minute ride up I95, (the good old days) He was so thrilled with biking that when a bike store opened in Fred., he got a job there when in high school, and fell in love with bikes. After school,he decided to make a career in the food industry, which he checked off his list of careers quickly, Since he loved biking so much ,the rest is history. With the opening of Bike Works, at 104 William St., , Tom, (Owner /Janitor) became the bikers paradise

store, the place to go for your biking needs (sales/service downtown!) Andre Randolph (above right) is the manager of the store and Tom's right hand man, and Tom says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;'I just let Andre do the outstanding job he does, and I provide a steady hand." Tom said bikes are such a sentimental love object, alot of people refuse to part with them, sometimes even after they become, "post restorable." He has a bike rack out front of the store, where bikes mysteriously come and go. Biking is such a healthy activity, Tom says, it can last a lifetime as a hobby,plus develop long- term friendships. We are so fortunate here in Fredericksburg that we have a bikers paradise of biking trails. I myself adore my 3 wheeler bike with a basket in back for my dog. On the trails, unless careful, as it is wide,and can mow pedestrians over easily! Tom enjoys his hobby of motorcycles, stereos, the Rappahannock chapter of Rotary club. He and his partner, Carrie Shafer, who is a local nurse-practitioner, enjoy one domestic and one foreign trip per year, as their family hobby. They adore their several rescue cats from the SPCA. By the way,Tom wants you to know,his dad helped him start Bike Works! Come on down to Bike Works,M-F 10-7,Sat., 10-5,see Tom and Andre and the weird bike rack!!! Georgia Strentz is our Gal About Town. Look for her on her three-wheeler and her companion"Bailey" Bike Works 104 William St, 540-3 373-8 8900, www.bikeworks.us; fb

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June 2019