Front Porch Fredericksburg - November 2014 by Virginia Grogan

YOUR GUIDE TO THE LOCAL GOOD LIFE

front porch T H E R E G I O N ' S free C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E

L o c a l G o o d N e w s S i n c e 1 9 97 YEAR 18 • ISSUE 208 • NOVEMBER 2014

Frontporchfredericksburg.com

contents

closeups 8

stafford 350: geo. mason & stafford co. roots history’s stories.: spanish american war & FXBG

spotlight on ...pappagallo’s Suzanne J. Metzger

Finders Keepers Art Abandonment

companions: animals at the table

My own path: when the plan doesn’t goes as planned autoknown: be thankful you have a dump

Susan Larson ....Fredericksburg Today

Senior Care:increase your brain power

Wellness: healthcare fringe natural health: HRT

scene & heard...in the ‘burg!

applause:susan carter morgan

fxbg music: the bumper jacksons

On stage: freeway revival hollyburg

startup weekend winners poetryman: our week

fredericksburg sketches

from my porch: downsizing

Elma Adusei .... Roots in Ghana

porch talk 4

Walter’s Story

on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages

..5

Rok the park: Christopher rok shows in nat’l park

downtown buzz

VA Wineries... champions of cozy

Our Heritage: football & turkeys porchlight: master of none

mom’s pumpkin bread vino: thanksgiving wines

season’s bounty: black walnuts

Cooking with kyle

about beer: nut brown ale

16-17

Calendar of events

By Shelly Philips

...And more! 3

Walter’s Story:Vet finds life again

jackson harlem: the gospel, pt. 2

Vietnam Veteran finds life again with a 2 year old Golden Retriever

town meeting:Eunice Haigler invites you

M&S Studio: gives tools to achieve dreams

Cover By Adam DeSio

Walter Parker served as a Specialist E4 in the U.S. Army who fought in the Vietnam War from 1966–1968, but his toughest battle was simply coming back home. For 42 years Walter has fought post-traumatic stress (PTS), memory loss and flashbacks. Now 68, he is using his Psychiatric Service Dog, JACKSON, to control and mitigate his symptoms. Walter is reintegrating into society, reestablishing family relationships and gaining confidence, all thanks to a twoyear old Golden Retriever. “Four months ago when I began training, I hoped JACKSON would help, now there is no doubt, he is my future,” says Walter. Susan, Walter’s wife, contacted paws4people Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by Kyria Henry in 1999 (then 12 years old!), in hopes of finding help for her husband. She found more than that… Along with his Service Dog, JACKSON, Walter has received cutting edge Intervention Transfer Training to learn how to use JACKSON when the thunder gets too loud or a helicopter flies overhead or at the start of a flashback. Walter worked hard with Terry Henry, co-

founder, as well as other veteran clients who have been through the program and are now Peer Mentors, and has the backing of the entire paws4people organization for life. paws4people Foundation paws4people Foundation accomplishes their mission with hundreds of volunteers, specially trained inmates in 5 West Virginia Correctional Centers, 8 paws4people programs like paws4vets and paws4prisons and over 300 trained, certified and insured Assistance Dogs. JACKSON was born at the paws4people Center in Wilmington, NC, and started his training on day one, with neurological stimulation and stress control conditioning. At six weeks JACKSON, his siblings and mother, CLAIRE, entered into The Puppy Development Center, where the focus became socialization and exposing JACKSON to as many positive experiences as humanly possible. Around 16 weeks JACKSON entered the paws4prisons program, where he learned 150 basic commands. An inmate, trained and certified by paws4people, was responsible for his care and training. JACKSON was paired with Walter in the Fall of 2013 at a special

event in the prison called a “bump”. With JACKSON’s basic commands in place and his role of Psychiatric Service Dog defined, he travelled back to Wilmington. There he began his Public Access Training in environments such as restaurants, retail stores, movie theaters, public transportation, etc. with a trainer from the paws4people’s University of Wilmington’s Assistance Dog Training Program, written and taught by Kyria Henry. While in Wilmington, Walter would meet up with JACKSON for Intervention Transfer Training. The summer of 2014 Walter and JACKSON passed their Public Access Test and with the paws4peoples staff’s approval Walter took his new best friend home. Walter and JACKSON home at last October 11th was paws4people’s rd 3 Annual Reunion and 7th Graduation ceremony, celebrating 56 new Assistance Dogs, one of the teams being Walter and JACKSON. Life is night and day for Walter compared to before. He’ll be in recovery for the rest of his life but his goal now is

photo by j. brady to Pay It Forward and help other Veterans or children with special needs receive a life changing Service Dog from paws4people and paws4vets. To find out how you can help support Walter & JACKSON’s goal to Paying It Forward, please visit: paws4people.org/give/walter-parker Shelly Philips is the “Pay It Forward” Advocate and CFC Coordinator for paws4vets.org . Email her @ shellyp.p4p@gmail.com

Be Thankful

Pumpkin Spice Lattes Apple Cider & Hot Cocoa

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

contents

closeups 8

stafford 350: geo. mason & stafford co. roots history’s stories.: spanish american war & FXBG

spotlight on ...pappagallo’s Suzanne J. Metzger

Finders Keepers Art Abandonment

companions: animals at the table

My own path: when the plan doesn’t goes as planned autoknown: be thankful you have a dump

Susan Larson ....Fredericksburg Today

Senior Care:increase your brain power

Wellness: healthcare fringe natural health: HRT

scene & heard...in the ‘burg!

applause:susan carter morgan

fxbg music: the bumper jacksons

On stage: freeway revival hollyburg

startup weekend winners poetryman: our week

fredericksburg sketches

from my porch: downsizing

Elma Adusei .... Roots in Ghana

porch talk 4

Walter’s Story

on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages

..5

Rok the park: Christopher rok shows in nat’l park

downtown buzz

VA Wineries... champions of cozy

Our Heritage: football & turkeys porchlight: master of none

mom’s pumpkin bread vino: thanksgiving wines

season’s bounty: black walnuts

Cooking with kyle

about beer: nut brown ale

16-17

Calendar of events

By Shelly Philips

...And more! 3

Walter’s Story:Vet finds life again

jackson harlem: the gospel, pt. 2

Vietnam Veteran finds life again with a 2 year old Golden Retriever

town meeting:Eunice Haigler invites you

M&S Studio: gives tools to achieve dreams

Cover By Adam DeSio

Be Thankful

Pumpkin Spice Lattes Apple Cider & Hot Cocoa

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

James Kyle Snyder

Guest Porch Page Editor

Contributing Writers & Artists Nancy Bauer A.E.Bayne Joan Brady Nancy Bruns Megan Byrnes C.Ruth Cassell Judy Chaimson Ashleigh Chevalier Rick Collier Alexis Grogan Ryan Davis Frank Fratoe Christina Ferber Joan Geisler Anne Glave Rob Huffman Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks Beth Hunsinger Karl Karch David Kerr Wendy LaRue Susan Ujka Larson Jo Loving Matt Mastalski Vanessa Moncure Gary Olsen Shelly Phillips M.L.Powers Scott Richards Ruzena Rok Casey Alan Shaw James Kyle Snyder Melissa Terlizza Rim Vining Christine Thompson Suzy Woollam

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 are welcome to request Writer’s Guidelines and query the Editor by e-mail. Front Porch Fredericksburg PO Box 9203 Fredericksburg, VA 22403 Ad Sales: E-Mail: frntprch@aol.com Web Site: www.frontporchfredericksburg.com 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 2014 Olde Towne Publishing Co. All rights reserved.

November 2014

ON THE PORCH Community

Rok the Park Local Photographer shows work @National Park By Ruzena Rok

BY James Kyle Snyder When I was asked to write his months “On the Porch,” I was flushed with honor and humility. After 18 years of Rob’s voice in this spot, I was admittedly nervous. What would I have to offer? I then looked back to the hours of conversations he and I had. The subjects would wax and wane in a stream of unguided consciousness that only conversations like those could have: one thought leading to another that would ultimately lead to a third that was incongruous with the first, voices being hastily interrupted by laughter while faces were awash (one of Rob’s favorite word) with sly knowing grins, readying the next quip. Sometimes the spritelings would yield themselves to serious subjects spoken in toneless voice only to return to the ever affable genre that is “the Porch.” Mitzi and I have recently returned from two weeks in Peru, where they are in their spring and planting season. Experiencing the excitement of the coming growing season (a distant memory for us) and warming weather that brings smiles and calculated work schedules to ensure the year’s success reminded us of our year past. It’s nice to sit back and take a minute to reflect on the year just before the beginning of the hectic holiday season. The small space in between finishing the harvest season and diving into the celebrations allows for only a quick remembrance of how we got to today. There is usually a big to-do during the first of the year’s transition months where the days are warming, crops are being planted, and summer vacation plans are being created. Less attention is paid to the transition at the beginning of November. The slowing pace, the crispness of October yielding to true cold air and the possibility of the winter’s first hard freeze begins the season in Fredericksburg filled with the familiarities of home, family, friends, and celebrations. All the corners of Fredericksburg are getting ready for season’s largest celebrations: Thanksgiving and, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. The city is throwing out the red carpet for all our neighbors to come and join the start of the season by hosting The Downtown Holiday Open House November 8th and 9th. Our incredible art scene will open their doors to tantalize, the railroad museum will continue to educate, and our local musicians will be available to entertain at our music spots. JM wraps up the football season

Front porch fredericksburg

Valley Ranch, Wyoming. Currently he works full-time as a mechanical engineer for the Department of the Army, however, he and his wife plan to relocate to Wyoming permanently in 2017 after he retires. Originally from Pennsylvania, Rok made his first visit to Wyoming in 2004 and was immediately captivated by the landscape as well as the prevailing “spirit of the west”. A self-taught photographer (he earned his mechanical engineering degree from the University of Maryland in 1984), Rok discovered Wyoming’s wild places were the perfect complement to his penchant for black and white imagery. A life-long admirer of Ansel Adams, Rok finds there is a duality in the black and white medium – one of beauty and scarcity. The photographs included in the WWA show are both

“Winterland”

with local rival Courtland on the 7th ending, what should be, another great season of football. The holiday parties begin, toasts are raised, and presents exchanged. Our neighbors to the south of the hemisphere are starting the cycle again while we are finishing. We were fortunate to meet Victor Atarami, Maruja Caceres Franco, and Alfredo Huari. These three young people took us on a tour of their country. They were all three very concerned about their country and culture. They were excited to partner with us to help educate us. When we arrived in Peru, it was the “dry” season (which means it only rained on us a few days and only hailed once); they were gearing up to begin the cycle gain. In the Amazon, the rivers were lower, and Victor told us many of the animals, like the Macaw, wait for rainy season to lay their eggs (although the tarantulas we saw seemed well fed). In the mountains of Maruja’s village, each family only gets less than a quarter acre by which to feed their family. Although this is true, all the families come together to plow and plant, which is done using two bulls (a left and a right which are not interchangeable) and a wooden plow with a metal blade strapped to it with bull leather. Once the men have plowed and the women have sown the seeds, the bulls drag a man riding a board like a surf board diagonally across the trenches to cover the new plantings.

The whole family is there, all are working together, and everyone is smiling. You see, Fredericksburg is an amazing place unlike other small cities in our nation. We are a community that is truly separated by one degree of familiarity. Yes, there are other towns of the same size, but none of them are a city centered between Richmond and DC; none of them neighbor George Washington’s boyhood home; none of them have the rich history that makes us uniquely Fredericksburg. There you have it: “cover to cover”

James Kyle Snyder is a founder and president of Success Facilitators llc – a business consulting firm -headquartered in Fredericksburg. He is an undergrad of UMW and is continuing his MBA with them. He and his wife Mitzi, a CFO and law student, are members of Rappahannock Rotary and enjoy gardening and travel together. He has called Fredericksburg home since 2001 Photo by Susan Birt

Local photographer Christopher Rok recently had two of his fine art photos selected for a traveling art show that made a stop this fall at the Visitor’s Center of Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. The Wyoming Wilderness Association (WWA) Wilderness Art Exhibition celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act of 1964 and the 30th Anniversary of the Wyoming Wilderness Act of 1984. Rok’s black and white photographs, “Three Kings” and “Winterland”, are included among the “Jurors’ Top 25 Works” selected for inclusion in the exhibit. The jurors sought original two-dimensional works of art depicting the artist’s vision of Wyoming Wilderness. The show opened in Sheridan, WY on September 3rd and then on October 6th moved to the Visitor’s Center of Grand Teton National Park in Moose, WY where it was on display until November 1st. From there the exhibit traveled to its last stop at the University

“Three Kings” of Wyoming in Laramie where it remains on display until the show closes on November 30th. Known locally for his artistic lenswork showcasing Fredericksburg’s historic district, Rok maintains art studios at his home in Fredericksburg and in Star

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highly illustrative of this concept. “Three Kings” depicts a trio of Hayden Valley bison moving away from the camera toward rugged snowcapped peaks and “Winterland” captures Yellowstone’s dichotomy of fire and ice.

“October was been a good month for me” said Rok. “First, my wife and I were able to spend two wonderful weeks in Wyoming and second, it just happened to be during the same timeframe that the WWA show moved to the national park.” Rok explained that as he submits work to juried shows throughout the country, he often doesn’t get the opportunity to actually see selected photographs while they’re on display. “Any time I’m in Wyoming is terrific, our October trip just ended up being that much more special.” Locally during the month of November Rok will display his work at the Fredericksburg Area Service League’s Merry Market. This year’s market will be held November 22nd and 23rd at the Olde Silk Mill in downtown Fredericksburg. Merry Market may be Rok’s last art show for quite some time as during 2015 he plans to focus on creating new work for his portfolio.

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front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

James Kyle Snyder

Guest Porch Page Editor

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

November 2014

ON THE PORCH Community

Rok the Park Local Photographer shows work @National Park By Ruzena Rok

Front porch fredericksburg

“Winterland”

Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service

ROXBURY F

ARM

MAIN: (540) 373-9124 NURSERY: (540) 371-8802

& GARDEN CENTER

Since 1929

601 LAFAYETTE BLVD

roxburyfarmgarden.com

We have all your gardening needs! Come Shop With Us Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!

front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

The Gospel, Pt 2

Downtown Buzz

Jackson Harlem

Holiday Open House, Early Bird Riser, Gift Cards & More!

By a.e. bayne In the beginning, there was music - music that moaned low and traveled up his spine, dividing his mind. On the one side swayed the Delta Blues, immersing Jackson Harlem in Southern roots and baptizing him to his future occupations; on the other, a plethora of pop culture rocked and rolled. Bowie, The Beatles, Michael, and Prince jammed with B.B. and Little Richard, mixing it up and breaking it down. Today, Harlem trains his ear to all of them, following in the footsteps of music’s great visionaries as he presses his first single, “Beat it Up,” set to release this month on iTunes. Harlem says, “I have always done three things: I’ve sketched, I’ve written poetry and short stories, and I’ve always sang.” While he has spent recent years publishing a novel and developing an eyewear line that now has a dedicated following, Harlem has always known it was only a matter of time before he returned to music. With an ear for classically trained artists like Sarah Vaughan and Frank Sinatra, Harlem knew he wanted to cultivate a style uniquely his own. He explains, “I knew that if I had classical training, I could sing anything. It’s the singular reason I went

to college, but when I started training at Tupelo in 2004 I felt like I was just learning repertoire. I wondered where the theater, the magic and grandiosity were. Where was the narrative? So, I switched from opera to folk opera, which is more narrative based and centered on characters that are relatable to everyday people.” With his diverse musical background, Harlem approached David Barth, a recent University of Mary Washington graduate who started the Fredericksburg based sound company, Peak Sound VA, with friends in 2013. Harlem and Barth were both relatively new to producing albums, but Harlem describes the experience favorably, “I think Seth Golden calls it intelligent naiveté, where the best things come out of experiences where you are not an expert because you tend to innovate.” Barth says he had no preconceived notions about working with Harlem. “We became pretty close friends through it and have been working for months now. He puts a lot of energy into his performances, and he’s constantly practicing and rehearsing. He demands perfection.” Harlem describes the album in

production as a concept album, with “Beat it Up” revealing themes about sex and relationships. He says he remains true to his personal aesthetic, “I really don’t try to be anyone else. It’s risky, you know, because when you are performing poetry you put on a poetry hat, and I think listeners put on a poetry hat to understand it. You can speak in complete sentences or use jargon or different dialects, and they see through that lens. I don’t think people use that same kind of lens with music. They have preconceived notions of how the performance should look.” It is that image that Harlem describes, the tatted up rapper with a record and gunshot wound worn as a badge of honor, that he hopes to dispel. He says, “Like opera, rap is very much about storytelling, but with the addition of ego. And while pop music is very much about tapping into the zeitgeist of dancing and fun and sex, while being fast, shallow and club oriented, opera is very centered on character development and dramatic techniques like theater and

By anne glave

strong vocals. It uses a heavy dose of dramatic irony. I’ve learned things through studying literature, like not revealing too much to your audience, and I use those in my music.” Two years ago, Jackson Harlem revealed that he turns most of his creative pursuits into careers, saying, “Everything I do has to have some kind of symbolic meaning that resonates with my audience.” Here, in 2014, Harlem continues his fertile pursuit toward living a truly creative life. A.E. Bayne is a teacher, writer, and artist who lives in Fredericksburg. Her previous article about Jackson Harlem, “The Gospel According to Jackson Harlem,” can be found archived in the October 2012 Front Porch Magazine.

It’s great to see Downtown come together as a team to support the following holiday initiatives: Open Late Fridays, Small Business Saturday, and Downtown Gift Cards. The weekend of November 8th and 9th is the annual Downtown Holiday Open House—the kickoff of the holiday shopping season. Special shopping opportunities, Elfie Selfies, and the Window Wonderland Riddle contests are just the beginning of the holiday experience in Fredericksburg! First Friday, November 7th, is the start of the Open Late Fridays campaign. Over 25 stores have committed to being open until at least 8 p.m. for the seven Fridays prior to Christmas. Look for the yellow flags. What a start for the holidays!

The Early Bird Riser event on November 29th has been selected as an America Express Small B u s i n e s s Neighborhood C h a m p i o n . Participating businesses are offering special incentives in the early morning hours of 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Look for the red carpets! Free coffee and pastries will be offered at the Visitor Center that morning AND breakfast will be available at the VA Deli, Eileen’s, and Vivify. Experience Fredericksburg Downtown Gift Cards will be released on November7th! Congratulations to Elizabeth Seaver, Sue Henderson, Casey Shaw, Sally Kubarek, and Jonah Herbert, age 9, our People’s Choice Winner, for their designs. As we introduce our new initiatives to downtown businesses and the public at large, we want everyone to keep in mind that each of these programs is so

much bigger than a Downtown Gift Card, or an Open Late campaign—it’s about growing our community and creating and sustaining a vibrant and healthy Downtown. We hope that these new programs and initiatives will be tools that allow our merchants, property owners, and historic sites to achieve even greater success. That, in turn, will have positive effects both economically and culturally for our Downtown and for the region as a whole. Farewell to Board members Sue Bridi and Andi Gabler. Sue Bridi, Vice President of Union First Market Bank, has been with this program when Main Street was just an idea. Her concern for preserving our history and the well-being of our community has shown through her countless hours of volunteering. Andi Gabler, owner of the Schooler House, was a member on our first working Board and has been instrumental in bringing 20 flower pots to Downtown. She has devoted many hours to keeping our Downtown beautiful. Joining the Board for three-year terms are Brian Lam, property and business owner of Skin+Touch Therapy, and Susan Carter

Morgan, co-owner of Water Street Studio. Brian is the creator of the first Downtown Spa Week and brings fresh business marketing and promotion ideas to the Board. Susan brings a wealth of knowledge of communications in web and social media. As a result of her expertise, Main Street is tweeting and sharing on Instagram as @FxbgDNTN. There will be new reasons to visit downtown this holiday season. Festivity is in the air with Santa strolls, historical interpreters, carolers, Holiday Trivia Tour, and free events with our historic museums and sites. New businesses to explore include Benny Vitali’s, Sweets on Caroline, River Rock Outfitter, Bash Boutique and Latitudes. Wish Happy Anniversary to The Card Cellar for twenty three years and 810 Weekend Gallery for two years! Explore Downtown this Holiday Season! Ann Glave, Executive Director, of the Fredericksburg Main Street, is counting down the days to the Holiday Season. To stay up to date on the Holiday activities, visit Fredericksburg Downtown Facebook & www.fredericksburgmainstreet.org for a list of activities and participating stores

Color your life 606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg 373-7847 www.gemstonecreations.org Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesday 10-6:30

FREDERICKSBURGCOLLABORATIVE Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged 6

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

The Gospel, Pt 2

Downtown Buzz

Jackson Harlem

Holiday Open House, Early Bird Riser, Gift Cards & More!

By anne glave

Color your life 606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg 373-7847 www.gemstonecreations.org Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesday 10-6:30

FREDERICKSBURGCOLLABORATIVE Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged 6

November 2014

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front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Finders Keepers

VA. WINERIES

Art abandonment in the ‘burg

Loudoun County’s Champions of Cozy

By Melissa Terlizza I’ve recently begun abandoning small animals in Fredericksburg. I strap them to fences and cram them into tight places. I snap photos of their little upturned faces, then turn my back and walk away, leaving them to find their own way in the world. Don’t hate me. I’m not abandoning my pets—only my art.

love science and nature, and my fascination with living things is often reflected in the things I create: insects, plants, birds and animals. A couple months ago, I began taking my critters out of the gallery and hiding them around town, so they could be discovered by unsuspecting (and hopefully amused) passersby. “Dropping” art without being seen is challenging. I sneak around like a spy, looking for the perfect spots to hide my clay creations. In August I hid an octopus in the ocean section of Riverby Books. Last month I tucked a mouse into the wall surrounding the old Freemason Cemetery. Once I even tied a chameleon to the fence in Hurkamp Park in broad daylight—right under the noses of dog-walkers and distracted picnickers. Found by Alexis Grogan at the Kenmore Inn I am not the only person doing “Art Abandonment” has this. I am a Fredericksburg artist. I been around for as long as people have have a studio at Artful Dimensions Gallery made art. Today, aided by social media, on Charles Street, where I create all sorts the movement has taken off. The Art of things out of colorful polymer clay. I Abandonment Group on Facebook,

launched in 2012 by artist Michael de Meng in Oregon, now boasts almost 19,000 members—artists and craftspeople all over the world committed to Melissa spreading goodwill and the love of art to complete strangers. De Meng sees abandonment as a way to promote acts of kindness and “encourage folks to stay involved in the arts.” The Facebook site gives members a place where they can share photos and stories of the things they give away, and connect with other people for support and inspiration. The rules to art abandonment are simple: you make something, then leave it somewhere for someone else to discover. No strings attached. Many abandoners prefer to stay anonymous; while others attach contact information in the hopes that the “finder” will let them know what becomes of their artwork. I have been lucky—I’ve received emails and photos of my creatures with their new owners. It’s a tremendous compliment, and motivates me to keep on creating and abandoning. I never anticipated how enjoyable

by nancy bauer With nearly 40 wineries packed into one county, Loudoun - which bills itself as “DC’s Wine Country” – is in a class all its own. Find yourself a trusty designated driver and a good map (or the Virginia Wine in My Pocket app!), and you could explore yourself into a very fine mood indeed on a crisp fall weekend. Summertime fly-bys pack in lots of taste but little savor, while fall, well, fall is also in a class all its own. Here are some of our favorite Loudoun wineries for the cooler weather, with soft leather couches and wood burning fires, mulled wine and hot soup, warm welcomes and cozy nooks. Go during the week if you’d prefer to be alone, but know that fireplaces blaze mostly on weekends, and be sure to check operating schedules before you point the car toward the back roads of Loudoun.

abondoning one of her creations it would be to create things expressly to give away, or how connected I would feel to the strangers who take my artwork home. In an age when all we see of most people are the tops of their heads as they squint down at laptops and smart phones, art abandonment rewards people who look around and notice things. My finders might never venture into local galleries and see my work, so my work finds them. There is something magical about that. For more information about the Art Abandonment movement, please check out The Art Abandonment Project: Create and Share Random Acts of Art by Michael de Meng and Andrea Matus de Meng. March 2014. North Light Books. Or join the group on Facebook, at facebook.com/groups/artabandonment and start abandoning your own creations!

AUTUMN’S A-L LIST Otium Cellars – A pavilion as big as a church hosts a glass front fireplace and deep couches. Sliding glass doors keep the space warm all winter. 18050 Tranquility Road, Purcellville. (pictured)

See more of Melissa Terlizzi’s work (as well as clues to future abandonments) on her Facebook page: www.facebook.com/mlterlizzi.art

Snead’s Farm CHRISTMAS TREES Cut or Dig Your Own! Reserve Today! No Money Down! Pine up to 14 ft. ~ $40 Spruce up to 14 ft.~ $70 to $80 Open Daily 9 - 5 p.m Sneadsfarm.com 540.371.1070 Use Goog le Ma ps to F ind Us Just 10 mi. S.E. of town on Rt. 17, Caroline County Come out to our farm, where “Keeper” says, s are “ Woof ! Our trees Bes s t in the Burg ” 2015 CSA Weekly deliveries May - October $720 pd by Nov.3 ( $800 after)

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

Hiddencroft Vineyards – The fire pit you’ve always dreamed of ¾ big enough to be ringed by 15 Adirondack chairs¾dominates the patio at this quiet spot tucked away in a far north corner of the county. 12202 Axline Road, Lovettsville. 8 Chains North – Deep red walls, luscious red wines, and ceiling-high stone fireplace call out for a cuddle. 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford. Sunset Hills Vineyards - Everything’s more fun in a barn. 38295 Fremont Overlook Ln, Purcellville. Creek’s Edge Vineyard – Newcomer with a following and a fireplace. Get here first, then tell your friends. 41255 Annas Lane, Lovettsville. Breaux Vineyards - Saturdays & Sundays in November, stop here for sausage & chicken gumbo in the tasting room. 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Purcellville. Doukenie Winery – The sun will be well set and the cozy will be amped up for “Create, Paint, and Wine” on Thursday evening, November 14 from 7-9PM ($35, no art experience necessary, all supplies included). Wine and paintbrushes: sounds messy – and fun. 14727 Mountain Road, Purcellville. North Gate Vineyards – Go for the wine¾North Gate was one of the most highly recognized in the state for 2014¾ and stay for the fireplace room, and the handmade truffles. 16031 Hillsboro Rd, Purcellville. Hillsborough Vineyards – Plan your allAmerican Thanksgiving menu as you sip bold Virginia reds in a sunny dining room that feels very French, though it’s owned by a talented family of Turks, on land once purchased by a political appointee of the

English Crown. Fireplace inside; fire pits out. 36716 Charles Town Pike, Purcellville. Quattro Goombas – Fans love the Sicilianby-way-of-Beaver County, PA square cut pizza. Quattro goes outside the Virginiaonly box, bringing in grapes from the west coast and from Chile to bottle alongside some from in state. Fireplaces in and out. 22860 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie. MORE FIRE STARTERS These Loudoun wineries also keep you warm with fireplaces, outdoor fire pits, or both. Indoor fires: Bluemont Vineyard Bogati Bodega Corcoran Vineyards Dry Mill Vineyards & Winery Hidden Brook Winery Winery 32 Lost Creek Winery Pearmund Cellars Outdoor fires: Casanel Vineyards Notaviva Vineyards Fabbioli Cellars Stone Tower Winery Both indoors and outdoors: Barns at Hamilton Station Hunters Run Wine Barn Loudoun Valley Vineyards Nancy Bauer is the co-founder of Virginia Wine in My Pocket, the iTunes/Google mobile app and website travel guide to Virginia Wine Country. For more tips on Virginia Wine Country travel, see our website at VAWineInMyPocket.com.

front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Finders Keepers

VA. WINERIES

Art abandonment in the ‘burg

Loudoun County’s Champions of Cozy

See more of Melissa Terlizzi’s work (as well as clues to future abandonments) on her Facebook page: www.facebook.com/mlterlizzi.art

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Porch Light

OUR HERITAGE

Stories that shine a light on life

A look at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center collection

...and master of none

football and turkeys

By Nancy Bruns & Judy Chaimson

By Rob Huffman You run a good interview, sir. Really makes me root around in the old memory. You should be comm…….excuse me? Absolutely. Ready? Okay, like most teenagers, I washed dishes. Been a trash man –twice – hanging happily from the side of one of those behemoth trucks as it sailed (sorry Emily, but there is no frigate like a garbage truck) along suburban streets. I’ve unloaded coal from a train, realigned cemetery headstones, delivered packages on the Tech campus, and worked as a janitor. I’ve gutted office buildings,, was a swamper in Texas, taught high school English, and worked as a librarian. I made pizzas, was a bingo helper, mowed grass, and worked construction. Burned up lots of food as a short order cook, was a technical writer, and a uninformed and technically-challenged member of Geico’s Information Technology team. I sold toys (oddly enough, one of the few jobs I’ve held that required me to dress like a grown-up. Painted (houses, not art), processed passport requests, and labored in an Army mess hall. Masqueraded as a mechanic. Theoretically, my job was installing hitches and camper tops on pickup trucks. I’m guessing a lot of those hitches didn’t stay hitched and a few of those tops blew off. You’ll note, sire, I mean sir, that most of my jobs fall into the “unskilled labor” category. To which I say, bingo. But I do ask that you consider the impressive array of unskills I accumulated. You’ll have to agree that when it came to performing simplistic tasks, I cut a wide swath. Let me finish relating my work history. I drove a dump truck and delivered mail on a rural postal route. Moved furniture. For two years – a prodigious stretch of gainful employment! - I was a U.S. Army Combat

November 2014

Engineer. My actual duties however involved typewriters. The Special Secretarial Forces, you could say. I’ve tried telemarketing, too, but am pretty sure I hated it even more than the people whose dinners I interrupted. I’ve been a night watchman – sitting in the middle of a terrifyingly desolate construction site all night thinking about every horror movie I’d ever seen. I’d sit there, terrified, waiting for that first zombie strike. The graveyard shift never seemed so graveyard-y. I swept up hair in a barbershop. Poured concrete. Oddly, I never worked in a fast food place. I had my standards. I did, however, have to work in manholes where live sewage ran. So my standards were, shall we say, fluid. And though I’ve never been fortunate enough to ask a customer if he’d like fries with his order, I have used shovels. Lots of shovels. Used for the types of jobs where you come home muddy and tired and your breath happy hour beery. Speaking of beer, I never tended bar (pretty hilariously ironic, if you knew how comfortable I am on the non-working side of a bar. Worked at a truck wash, too. Drenched within the first ten minutes. I hadn’t been stuck in wet pants for that long since my early boyhood. I was a bakery apprentice, too. I sincerely hope you never ate any of my baked – for lack of a better word – goods. Because goods they were not. So, do you need to see some references? That’s okay, I can find my own way out. Rob Huffman continues to work and who would have thought he’d stick around so long? - as a high school librarian.

Front porch fredericksburg

The Heritage Center’s collections contain many photos and reminiscences relating to the game of football. Football was new to Fredericksburg High School in the 1920’s.(above) At first, the players were enthusiastic but poorly equipped, both in uniforms and skills, but by the 1925 season their knowledge of the game had greatly improved. The team won all of its games and was not scored on. One of the players, Warren Farmer, told the story in his oral history. “This team was made up of a bunch of hefty souls…We had a line where I guess some of them weighed 180 pounds, which was pretty heavy for a high school team in those days. It was just a unique congregation that was brought together by fate and the fact that for the first time we had a very good coach … named Ted Woodson. The result was we went through the [1925] season, won every game kept every opponent scoreless. That won us the district championship, which was in northern Virginia and included Alexandria, our greatest enemy.” The newspaper account of the district championship game was modestly worded, but upbeat: The game was not as difficult as expected and the local team “trotted out some new plays … and the trials were successful,” wrote the sports writer for the [Fredericksburg] Star. Then came what Farmer remembered was the eastern Virginia championship game – district champion against district. Fredericksburg played South Norfolk and lost 39 to 0. Farmer remembers: “It was one whale of a football game. They really beat us.” As for turkeys – the following story from the Center’s collections suggests that they are not just for Thanksgiving. Included in the Heritage Center’s vast collection of Knox Family documents are two notes about a turkey. In 1925, Lucy Brockenbrough Knox married Louis

E. Marie, Jr., an officer in the U. S. Marine Corps. In 1928, Lieutenant Marie was posted to China, where the couple apparently enjoyed sightseeing and established friendships within the military and local communities. The following year they were transferred to the Philippines. The two notes, quoted here, are testament to the high regard in which the Maries were held, as well as to the plight of poultry in the summer of 1930: “Dear Sir & Madames: I am with great pleasure sending you a turkey and a fruit cake for “The 4th of July Celebration”, and I hope you will all enjoy with them. With best regards, I am, Yours respectfully, Foo Ying, 5, July 1930

Town Meeting With Open Minds & Open hearts comes opportunity By A.E.Bayne talk about racism in an open, racially mixed, safe setting. Established and future community leaders, and anyone interested in improving race relations, are invited to attend. Dinner will be served Eunice Haigler and Lee Criscuolo look forward to during the final hour of the event. The event’s sponsor, The the upcoming Town Meeting in November. Fredericksburg Area Race Relations Protests in Ferguson, Missouri Coalition, was born of concern from a this summer prompted many people to small group of people who were looking closely consider the realities of racial for leadership and guidance about ways to inequalities within their own effect positive improvements in communities. Ferguson showed us that all communication and understanding within is not well, that fear is still a factor in our our community. They partnered with interactions with one another, and it Virginia Organizing, an established inspired some toward positive action in grassroots group with experience in our own area. The Fredericksburg Area facilitating meaningful dialog between Race Relations Coalition, in partnership groups of different backgrounds and with Virginia Organizing, will hold its first ethnicities. The coalition grew with each Town Meeting on November 15, 2014, meeting, pulling in attendees from area between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. at Shiloh churches, community groups, and the Baptist New Site on Princess Anne Street in NAACP. The expanding email list and Fredericksburg. The event is free to the attendance at meetings inspired them to public, but registration is requested. plan this first event in November. Plans for the event include a Facilitator and Virginia workshop developed through Virginia Organizing member, Eunice Haigler, says Organizing which allows people of she has been impressed by the coalition’s different backgrounds the opportunity to open-mindedness and lack of personal

agenda. She says, “It looks like they want to go in the right direction. I like that the group is so open to suggestions. They’re just looking for what might work and examining what didn’t work in the past. They are committed. They don’t just want to talk; they want to take some action, which really piqued my interest. When they came up with this event, that was my hook.” While the group is in its infancy, member Lee Criscuolo is encouraged by the number of people requesting to be on the email list and each meeting’s new attendees. She says, “We have a lot of people who want to be in the loop. We’re actively looking for people to join the group, and we would like to share information from other groups if they are having events in the community so our members can be involved.” Members agree that the open dialog and discussions have been Ernie Ackermann has constructive. attended meetings from the beginning. He says, “It’s really nice the way it’s coming together, and we’re fortunate that there are other people interested. People in the community are feeling like they want to talk about racism in general. Just hearing

what other people are saying changes perspectives.” Ultimately, members approach it from a variety of places, many of them Ainsley Brown explains, “My personal. interest stems from Ferguson, and all the other Fergusons that I’ve heard of before and that I knew were coming. Because I am the mother of someone of another race, it’s the micro-aggressions and dehumanization that my daughter has experienced that have made me ultrasensitive to the way we treat each other.” With open dialog and open doors, The Fredericksburg Area Race Relations Coalition hopes to create real and positive connections within our community. As Eunice Haigler explains, “You know, it takes a village for this to work.” For more information, please contact Addie Alexander at addie@virginiaorganizing.org or Lee Criscuolo at ziggy22553@gmail.com. Register for the first Town Meeting at Shiloh Baptist New Site online at http://tinyurl.com/mpclbo7. A.E.Bayne is a teacher, writer and artist who lives and is involved in the Fredericksburg community.

To Lieutenant & Mrs. Marie & Mrs. Knox [Lucy’s mother lived with them] U. S. Naval Station, Olongapo, P. I. My dear Friends: I am very sorry indeed that the turkey I sent you for July 4th was dead. I think it was because of the sea sick and the turkey had been on board the Genesee for more than four days. But now I feel very happy that I have obtained in town another one for you, and I sincerely hope you all will enjoy with it. I know very well that you do not like me to do that at all, but to me, you know how I feel and I cannot help it, as you all have been very kind to us. If I want to send something to a friend, I always want to see that he will make good use of it. With best compliments, Yours very sincerely, Foo Ying” While we are enjoying our football games and Thanksgiving turkeys this November, we might remember with pride and with sorrow those events of the 1920’s in Fredericksburg and around the world. Nancy Bruns and Judy Chaimson, volunteers at the Heritage Center. front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Porch Light

OUR HERITAGE

Stories that shine a light on life

A look at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center collection

...and master of none

football and turkeys

By Nancy Bruns & Judy Chaimson

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Vino Thanksgiving Wines By scott richards

...because together, we’ll feed thousands! While it might seem daunting to feed thousands of people, hungry families in our community are sure hoping you will. With your gift , the Fredericksburg Area Food Bank can feed thousands in the Fredericksburg Area who need a little extra help this year.Every $1 you give can be turned into 3 meals. With your donation of as little as $25, 75 meals can be provided to hungry children and families in our community. The Fredericksburg Area Food Bank continues to distribute more food every year. Local donors provide critical support that allows the Food Bank to continue to feed more people. Local food donors provide over one-third of food donations, sourcing more food locally than government programs and Feeding America donations. Financial donors provide the resources not only to purchase food, but to fund transportation of food donations and support for warehouse operations. The Food Bank appreciates current and past support of food and financial donors and needs this support to continue in order to meet the needs of the hungry that live in our community. Take A Tour of the Food Bank Have you ever wondered exactly how we receive and transport millions of

meals to hungry families? Would you like to see how the food distribution system works? Contact Dayle Reschick to schedule a tour of our facility with your students, employees, club or group. Enjoy the recipe below, from our family to yours, a token of our appreciation of your support Mom’s Pumpkin Bread! 3½ cups sifted flour 1½ teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons baking sod 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon, nutmeg & allspice 2 cups of canned pumpkin 3 cups sugar 4 eggs 2/3 cup water 1 cup cooking oil 1 cup nuts Sift dry ingredients together in bowl. In separate bowl mix sugar,eggs & pumpkin. Add dry ingredients to bowl. Add water, oil & nuts. Mix well Grease two large loaf pans and coat with flour. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. Contact the Fredericksburg Area Food Bank at 540-371-7666, www.fredfood.org. or visit them at 3631 Lee Hill Drive

Open Daily 11am - 4pm 540.371.2233 www.thevirginiadeli.com 826 Caroline at the corner of Caroline & George Streets Master Card ~ Visa ~ Discover 12

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

It is that time of year again when we start thinking about everyone getting together and being nice to each other for a few short hours around the Thanksgiving table. I have discovered that is much more pleasant with a good wine to accompany the meal. Easier said than done. The problem has been the plethora of flavors on the table and having wine to match them, which could get rather expensive, not to mention intoxicating. One principle of pairing I use that takes away a lot of the guess work is very simply do not try to match the foods! Now before all the foodies and wine snobs blackball me, hear me out. The purpose of a pairing is not to have a wine that will taste good with the food or food that tastes good with the wine. In pairing food and wine, neither the food nor the wine stands out; rather, one is given the opportunity to accentuate the combination of both in order to experience and enjoy the flavor that results from the pairing. I can think of two wines I have used in the past that have accomplished this very nicely. The first is Cline’s Ancient Vine Zinfandel. The term ancient vine refers to the fact that the vines are about 100 years or more in age. At this point, they do not produce as much fruit, but what they do produce is very concentrated in flavor. Cline has taken this grape and used it to produce a wine that not only pleases the palate with a concentration of dark berry flavors, but also gives off a richness and spice that absorbs into and blends with whatever else is your mouth. The lingering finish is much like the beginning, very smooth and pleasing. The entire wine displays a lovely character that not only supports the army of food flavors attacking your tongue, but also adds an element of taste that enhances the flavor of whatever is on your plate. This is not a wine to be taken lightly, but to be enjoyed as a catalyst for elegance to your holiday fare and can be found for less than $14.00 a bottle. Of course, not everyone likes red wine. It is hard to imagine a white wine that would fit in this situation other than some oaky, buttery Chardonnay. Personally, I think butter should be reserved for Grandma Lynn’s rolls to the degree that melted butter runs down your arm (please excuse my digression, but her

rolls were always incredible). Getting back to wine, I have found that an off dry Riesling is an excellent choice. Surprisingly, a good Riesling can carry the weight of a large meal such as Thanksgiving and one that I would recommend is Dr. L’s Riesling, imported from Germany. This particular wine is neither too sweet nor too dry, but excellent in character and finish, while allowing the taste of the Riesling grape itself. And, one of the best parts is that it can be found for about $10. Some other considerations might be a Super Tuscan. This is an Italian wine that is usually about 85 percent Sangiovese and the remainder Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Both of the latter wines are Bordeaux wines, therefore when they are added to Sangiovese, the resulting blend is referred to as a Super Tuscan. Sangiovese, which is the main component for Chianti, is often fermented somewhat dry and has a lovely subdued dark cherry and fruit taste. Given the structure of the Cabernet Sauvignon and the roundness of the Merlot, a Super Tuscan would go very well with a holiday meal. It would go well with a hamburger, to be honest. Of course, there is always Amarone, the prince of Italian reds. Made by drying the grapes prior to fermentation, this wine gives a concentrated taste that woos the palate with its silky texture and causes cessation to all activity as one sits in amazement that a wine could be so good. A wine that begs for good food, an Amarone by Allegrini goes for approximately $7580.00 per bottle. It is worth every cent. Whatever you drink, please enjoy responsibly and may the God of the Harvest bless you and your house abundantly. Scott Richards is a freelance writer, owner of Loch Haven Vineyards in Sparta, VA, member of VA Vineyards Association, and blogger at fromthevine.wordpress.com.

Season’s Bounty Black Walnuts

By vanessa moncure

Olde Towne BUTCHER Corner of William & Charles Streets Downtown Fredericksburg The black-walnut cracking rock is still in place, rising off the edge of the old kitchen porch. Our Virginia Century farm in Madison holds many memories for multiple generations — especially as our family life-spans often ran into nine decades. Traditions seemed to move slowly — still making home-made lye soap, picking towel-lined baskets of merkels — nature’s glorious gifts springing from heavy leaf mould in the early spring. Early Heirloom apple trees gave us gnarled and tart fruit, raspberries and blackberries were worth the painful trip into a thornberry patch — why are the best just out of reach? Black walnut trees surrounded the old house — I was often given a cotton bag to pick up the husk-covered walnuts, still green on the ground. A large sackful produced maybe a pint of the tangy nuts, saved and portioned for Christmas baking. My great-grandmother used to clean and dry the husks — she wore heavy gloves to avoid the inevitable walnut-stained hands — then as a special treat, would pick a few nuts up in her flour-sack apron and bring them to the edge of the porch, along with her tiny kitchen hammer and a collection of nut picks. I would lean into her tiny 5’ frame, waiting for my precious treat. She would crack the shell — for some reason, black walnuts are harder and seem to produce fewer nuts per shell than say, pecans or almonds. My children today don’t like the distinctive flavor of black walnut, so substitute any other nut you prefer - I think I love them because of my porch memories. I purchase pecans in season from a Georgia grower, through a women’s group in Culpeper — I don’t think they’ve raised the price in five years! NUT TOPPING COOKIE BARS Mix together 2 c. flour, ¼ c. sugar, ½ tsp. flour and 1 c. butter until the

540.370.4105

consistency of cornmeal. Spread in greased 9/13” pan, then bake at 350F until lightly browned, about 18 minutes. Remove from oven and pour nut mixture over top, then return to oven and bake until golden brown and firm about 12 minutes.

www.oldetownebutcher.com

9am - 9pm Monday through Saturday 11am - 6pm Sunday Lee Russell Proprietor

NUT MIXTURE Mix 4 beaten eggs, 1 c. light brown sugar, 1 ½ c. mixture light and dark corn meal, 1 c. chopped pecans, ¼ tsp. salt, 1 T. vanilla, 2 T. melted butter

S ammy T’ s DOWNTOWN FREDERICKSBURG’S

BLACK WALNUT MIXTURE TOPPING Mix together above ingredients, adding 1 c. coconut and ½ tsp. coconut extract. HOLIDAY FUDGE I love black walnuts, but family favorite is English walnuts. Combine 4 sq. unsweetened chocolate, 2 c. sugar, 2 T. light corn syrup, ¾ c. half and half, ½ c. butter, 1 T. vanilla. Combine all ingredients except butter and vanilla in heavy saucepan and cook over low heat until mixture forms a soft ball (234F on candy thermometer). Remove from heat, put butter and vanilla atop chocolate mixture but do not stir until cools. Beat by hand til fudge is glossy; stir in nuts and pour into greased pan (9x9) can also be dropped by spoonful onto parchment paper. Store airtight. CHOCOLATE CHESS NUT PIE Melt together 5T. butter, 1 oz. unsweeted chocolate, then stir in 2 eggs, 1 ¼ c. sugar, 1 T. vanilla, ½ c. evaporated milk and 1 c. chopped black walnuts. Pour into 9” unbaked pie shell then bake in preheated oven 375F 35-40 minutes until filling is firm. Enjoy!

Vanessa Moncure and her recipes are a reason to be thankful.

Serving Great Food Since 1981

Home of the “Camper Special” & the Best Burger in Town 801 Caroline Street

(540) 371-2008

Try Our Self-Serve Yogurt open 11:30 am Daily Still Owned by the Emory Family

The General Store

Restaurant

Since 1978

Italian/American Food Monday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm

371-4075 2018 College Ave. Fredericksburg front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Vino Thanksgiving Wines By scott richards

Open Daily 11am - 4pm 540.371.2233 www.thevirginiadeli.com 826 Caroline at the corner of Caroline & George Streets Master Card ~ Visa ~ Discover 12

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

Season’s Bounty Black Walnuts

By vanessa moncure

540.370.4105

www.oldetownebutcher.com

9am - 9pm Monday through Saturday 11am - 6pm Sunday Lee Russell Proprietor

NUT MIXTURE Mix 4 beaten eggs, 1 c. light brown sugar, 1 ½ c. mixture light and dark corn meal, 1 c. chopped pecans, ¼ tsp. salt, 1 T. vanilla, 2 T. melted butter

S ammy T’ s DOWNTOWN FREDERICKSBURG’S

Vanessa Moncure and her recipes are a reason to be thankful.

Serving Great Food Since 1981

Home of the “Camper Special” & the Best Burger in Town 801 Caroline Street

(540) 371-2008

Try Our Self-Serve Yogurt open 11:30 am Daily Still Owned by the Emory Family

The General Store

Restaurant

Since 1978

Italian/American Food Monday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm

371-4075 2018 College Ave. Fredericksburg front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Cooking With Kyle Simple, easy, delicious

Let’s Give Thanks Come Join Us for Thanksgiving Dinner

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

The Soup & Taco, Etc.

Nut Brown Ale

813 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA

by james kyle snyder

About Beer By Matthew mastalski

November 27th, 12-3pm SNEAK PEEK OF MENU Cranberry Apple Walnut Salad Serving Traditional

Turkey & Ham Carving Station

Mexican, Tex-Mex Food

Cornbread Stuffing

and Something More!!

Fresh Cut Green Bean Casserole

Tuesday to Saturday

Pecan Pie

11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm

Visit Our “Facebook” for Full Menu Gone are the brightly colored leaves that painted the trees like an artist playing with a pallet of colors. November reminds me of a time as a child coming home to a warm house and the smell of warming food. My mom would begin to introduce more soups and hearty stews to our diet. One of my favorite meals was the small pot pies you could purchase at the store. The warmth of the filling and the crunch of the topping were comforting. I care less for those store bought products now knowing what is in them, but I still love the idea of them: vegetables and small chunks of meat smothered with thick brothy goodness all topped with a crunchy crust. It is easy enough to recreate this idea using better ingredients without the preservatives. This year was a great year for the garden and, because we took a minute during the season to freeze some peas and carrots, we now have vegetables that are the next best thing to fresh. Let’s also use a healthier meat like chicken or turkey (making a big batch of this after Thanksgiving can provide you an easy meal all winter) rather than the “go-to” beef gives you protein without the additional calories of beef or lamb. Still, we want it to be rich and hearty like a beef stew. The French have a traditional dish that uses a rooster (Coq) and wine (Vin) known as coq au vin. Rooster is a tough, gamy meat that needs additional care to produce something edible. We are going to use some of these techniques with chicken thighs to produce a winter dish that is delicious and hearty, different from the thin chicken pot pies of yesteryear. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and pull a quart of peas and a quart of carrots

November 2014

from the deep freeze. Shape a puff pastry to the container you will be serving in and bake according to the instructions. While that is baking, let’s work on the richness. In a Dutch oven on the stove top, caramelize one large minced onion and a tablespoon of minced garlic. While that is cooking, prep 10 chicken thighs: washing, removing any tendons, and cutting into bite-sized pieces. Once the onion is caramelized, add two cups of chicken stock and ½ bottle of good red wine (pour yourself a glass, too) and turn the heat on high. To this, add 1 Tbs thyme leaves, 1 Tbs minced rosemary, and one bay leaf. Once boiling, add the chicken, ensuring everything is covered, and put it in the oven for 20 mins. Pull the mixture out of the oven and add the peas and carrots, stirring to combine. Top up with wine if you need more broth. The goal is 1/3 chicken, 1/3 carrots, and 1/3 peas barely covered. After another 10 minutes, check the vegetables and meat for doneness. I like the vegetables a little crunchy; after freezing, when you reheat, the vegetables will finish cooking. Add a roux by combining 3 Tbs each of rice flour and butter in a pan over med high heat. Bring the mixture to a frothy simmer, stirring frequently until browned. Add this to the Dutch oven and incorporate with a whisk. If it is not thick enough after a couple minutes of stirring, add more roux. Voila! Portion some for dinner and the rest for the freezer. This is a dish that freezes well! It only takes a small amount of time to create a meal that will bring back fond memories all winter long. Be well!

Kyle Snyder brings us simple, healthy and delicious recipes each month .

Front porch fredericksburg

620 CAROLINE STREET 540.373.8300 for reservations

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

The Sunken Well Tavern

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

Now that we have had our first crisp days of autumn and the leaves are beginning to change, the transitional season of Fall has begun. At its onset, our acclimation to Fall beer drinking is preordained by the pervasive and everpromoted Oktoberfest celebrations, where we as beer drinkers are bombarded with Märzens, (the traditional lager-style of beers synonymous with the Oktoberfest celebration) and told that Märzen is everything Fall. Also, at the end of summer and then again post Oktoberfest are a class of beers bookending the unavoidable Märzen frenzy, the Shandy, the Belgians, the Tripels and on the tale end, the persistent Frankenstein of beers: the Pumpkin-Patch. As shorter days and the industry and culture of beer drinking press me to pursue darker beers, the stouts and porters and the seasonally spiced or barrel-aged beers of true winter, it feels like they have left out a champion of the transition through Fall, the inglorious, ambiguous and unclassified, delicious and timeless Nut Brown. The Nut Brown, unassuming and barely defined, has had a staggered brewing history with delicious results. It was first brewed centuries ago as a weak but tasty beer, its only requirement being a brownish-hued ale derived from a specifically brown malt. As the use of pale malt became widely popular, as it was more productive and cost effective, the art of brewing classic Brown Ale nearly disappeared. Kept alive by home brewers it has had various resurgences and reformulations over the centuries; to the point that today’s definition simply insists that it be brown in color but can range in bitterness, sweetness, gravity and alcohol content.

You may be familiar with everyday Nut Browns: Newcastle Brown Ale -brewed in the beer’s native Englandwhich is a light-bodied and slightly bitter variety, brewed state-side Brooklyn Brewery Brown, NY weighs in on the sweeter end of the spectrum, and for a well-rounded, classic representation of the style many of us turn to Bell’s Best Brown Ale, MI. While these are all good choices for Fall beer staples there are two Nut Brown Ales out there that should not be missed: Imperial Nut Brown, Tommyknocker Brewery, CO. Don’t shy away from this one. Although it seems to be a beast at first glance at 9% ABV, 57 IBUs and brewed with pure maple syrup, this Imperial Nut Brown turns out to be sophisticated and well balanced. The maple syrup does not overwhelm but enhances a light to medium body that yields a smooth and creamy finish with notes of butterscotch, honeyed butter and mellow coffee. Southern Pecan Nut Brown, Lazy Magnolia, MS. This brew is very approachable and you should be prepared to have more than one. At 4.39% ABV, 19 IBUs this libation is touted by the brewers as the only beer on the planet brewed with whole roasted pecans and was a Medal Winner in the 2006 World Beer Cup in the Specialty Beer category. Light bodied and smooth with sweet, soft maltiness and a subtle nutty finish that will leave you wanting more.

Matt Mastalski, is one of Bistro Bethem’s long time servers, a recent college graduate and has a passion for beer and wine

front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Cooking With Kyle Simple, easy, delicious

Let’s Give Thanks Come Join Us for Thanksgiving Dinner

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

The Soup & Taco, Etc.

Nut Brown Ale

813 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA

by james kyle snyder

About Beer By Matthew mastalski

November 27th, 12-3pm SNEAK PEEK OF MENU Cranberry Apple Walnut Salad Serving Traditional

Turkey & Ham Carving Station

Mexican, Tex-Mex Food

Cornbread Stuffing

and Something More!!

Fresh Cut Green Bean Casserole

Tuesday to Saturday

Pecan Pie

11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm

November 2014

Kyle Snyder brings us simple, healthy and delicious recipes each month .

Front porch fredericksburg

620 CAROLINE STREET 540.373.8300 for reservations

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

The Sunken Well Tavern

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

Matt Mastalski, is one of Bistro Bethem’s long time servers, a recent college graduate and has a passion for beer and wine

front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

november 2014…Be Thankful! Saturday Nov 1

Opening Reception of Kristi Zerull’s “Furs, Feathers & Sales” Backdoor Gallery, 4500 Plank Rd, Suite 1012 , 5-7pm Silent Film Ensemble: the classic silent film ‘The General’ (1927) starring Buster Keaton will be shown with a five-six person ensemble playing as the film goes, featuring original music written by a handful of University of Mary Washington students. Come out and see it to enjoy the movie, the music and the magic of this cinematic comedy! CRRL, 2pm Virginia Historical Society Explore American history with arts and crafts and discover connections to the story of Virginia. Stories at the Museum features a group reading of a children’s history book and a make-it-and-take-it craft. 11 a.m.—noon. It is free and open to all ages. Richmond. contact Caroline Legros 804.342.9652 clegros@vahistorical.org Cabaret at Fredericksburg Square presents The Eric Felton Orchestra, . for info www.fburgsquare.com/#!cabaret/c1ocn or 540-373-9601 The Contemporary Henna Designs of Shirley Donahue with Photography by A.E. Bayne @ Skin + Touch Taste of Asia @ Anderson Center, UMW, 6pm & 10pm. an annual celebration of Asian culture. This event educates the community about different aspects of Asian cultures and lifestyles through a fashion show, dance performances, and a variety of ethnic foods.

Sunday, November 2

Dedication of New Habitat for Humanity 1:30pm , 44 Blizzard Court, Stafford, 22556; This is the first home completed by our Women Build initiative, in which local women successfully raised funds for a family home and brought it to completion. Habitat and the partner family receiving the home look forward to thanking all of our local supporters, volunteers and donors. We

CALENDAR of events

welcome everyone to celebrate the result of this joint community effort! Keys will be handed over to the family and we will enjoy remarks from some excellent speakers. Refreshments will be served! All are welcome. Contact Jane Walters, 540-891-5009 Brush Strokes Gallery All-Month Show: “Stories” presenting New Works by Sarah Lapp, November’s featured artist, showcases a new collection of intuitive abstract paintings in oil and mixed media. Bistro Bethem 5pm ½ Priced Bottles of Wine

Tuesday, November 4

Art First: Fun with Fred: New works by Casey Alan Shaw. Casey brings together paintings, drawings and mixed media pieces that bring a unique look at the iconic buildings of Fredericksburg. Thru Nov 30th. 824 Caroline St. Bistro Bethem, 8pm “Acoustic Onion”

Thursday, November 6

4th Annual Ponshop Jewelry Show .Sneak Peek 68pm features the works from our favorite local jewelers: Leslie Brier, Terresa Buelow, Jodi Habel, K Tuna Creations, Lisa Latendress, and Trish Schornagel. In addition, the show includes regional and national artists Elaine B, Lawrence Butler, Matthew Cirello and Jasmine Lee as AMORDIVIN, and Marstinia Enamel Designs. Natural Cleaning Products Class, Downtown Greens, 206 Charles St, 5pm. Learn to make your own natural cleaning products for a fraction of the price at the grocery store! Essential Oil specialist Kristy Walker and Herbalist Katya Hvizdos will walk you though the in and outs. of making natural products that are good for the whole family! Take products home for $10- or stop in for free to watch! See you there! Film Lecture—Academy Awards Best Pictures and the Nominees: The Bush/Obama Years—20052009. Gary Olsen, veteran film lecturer, will give commentary and offer film clips on this time period. November 6th, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Central Rappahannock Regional Library Headquarters, Theater Room, 1201 Caroline Street. 540-372-1144. Free

First Friday, November 7

Ribbon Cutting @River Rock Outfitters 10am. Fredericksburg Main Street welcome Downtown’s newest business – River Rock Outfitter, a specialty outdoor retailer focuses on climbing, hiking and paddling, veteran and family owned by Keith and April Peterson.915 Sophia St. Open Late Fridays Downtown: A new initiative for Downtown businesses – over 30 stores will be open to at least 8pm every Friday starting on First Friday. Watch for the yellow flags for participating merchants. Brandon Newton “Pop Up” show @ Fredericksburg studio,1103 Princess Anne St Ponshop opening reception for the 4th annual Jewelry Show showcasing the work of eleven jewelry artists 7 from 6-10pm. 712 Caroline St. Water Street Studio Join us in welcoming Carol Josefiak as our November featured artist. Oil paintings including new Fredericksburg paintings will be displayed during the reception on Nov. 7 and all month. 915 Sophia St. Ponshop kickoff for “Weekend Trunk Show” featuring Daphne Olive (Maryland) and Elaine B (Charlottesville, VA) with light food and refreshments and music provided by Mike DJ. 57pm. To celebrate Fredericksburg’s Holiday Open House event that weekend, the trunk show will run through Sunday, November 9. Music by Wave on Wave @Courtyard Marriott, Acoustic Duo entertaining with all your favorites and some your haven’t heard in years. Courtyard Marriott has been their First Friday home for 4 years. Come out and see why. Children are welcome. 5-8pm 20th annual Museum Stores of Richmond Holiday Shoppers’ Fair at the Library of Virginia, 9:30am – 8:30pm, 800 East Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23219 Call the Virginia Shop at the Library of Virginia for directions, 804.692.3524. Can’t make it to the fair? Visit our online store to purchase gifts @ www. shop-vahistorical.org

Companionship Meal Preparation Medication Reminders Laundry

Each HomeInstead Franchise Office is Independently Owned & Operated

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Holiday Craft Show, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Riverbend High School, 12301 Spotswood Furnace Road, Fredericksburg). Admission is free. Cabaret at Fredericksburg Square presents “Cloudburst”.Info www.fburgsquare.com/#!cabare t/c1ocn or 540-373-9601 Hard Times Four Mile Fork Presents ‘Animal House’ with Tailgate Down Benefiting The Fredericksburg Regional SPCA at 9:30 p.m.

Sunday, November 9

Bistro Bethem, 5pm, Half Price Bottles of Wine

Tuesday, November 11 Honor a Veteran Bistro Bethem Jazz”,8pm

“M-Law

The

Prophets

Wednesday, November 12 QuickBooks The Right Way, This 2-day interactive seminar/workshop is perfect for any QuickBooks user, whether you are just starting out or have been using it for awhile. Hampton Inn & Suites, 4800 Market St. 22408. Contact Latrice Claiborne, 540-659-8480. $

Friday, November 14 Open Late Fridays Downtown over 30 stores will be open to at least 8pm every Friday starting on First Friday. Watch for the yellow flags for participating merchants. Fredericksburg Art & Wine Show presented by Spotsylvania Lions, at Fredericksburg Country Club, 6-9pm. The show will feature 15 different wines along with a selection of beers to be

sampled. Heavy hor d’oeuvres will be served. To benefit Lions sight & hearing programs. Info: Tom Gorsuch at 540-891-9406 or at tgorsuch@gmail.com

Saturday, November 15 Mary’s Shelter Arts & Crafts Benefit, 9-2pm, 309 Hawke St.Local artists have donated their work for sale: original photography, fiber arts, wooden toys/household goods, refurbished furniture, bakery goods…the list goes on. Come out, enjoy a complimentary cup of tea, and shop knowing that you are supporting Mary’s Shelter, a local home for women facing crisis pregnancies Town Meeting @Shilioh Baptist New Site, 11am4pm, 525 Princess Anne St. The Fredericksburg Area Race Relations Coalition invites you to an open town meeting. The event include a workshop developed through Virginia Organizing which allows people of different backgrounds the opportunity to talk about racism in an open, racially mixed, safe setting. Anyone interested in improving race relations, are invited to attend. Dinner will be served during the final hour of the event. Virginia Historical Society Explore American history with arts and crafts and discover connections to the story of Virginia. Stories at the Museum features a group reading of a children’s history book and a make-it-and-take-it craft. 11 a.m.—noon. It is free and open to all ages. Richmond. contact Caroline Legros 804.342.9652 clegros@vahistorical.org Join Friends of the Rappahannock (FOR) and the Oyster Company of Virginia for an afternoon of oysters, wine, beer and live acoustic music in scenic Topping, Va. FOR is the Voice and Active Force for the river. Learn about FOR and the unique Oysters For Life program – a great holiday gift idea that keeps on giving. The event runs from 1 – 4 p.m. For more info log onto www.riverfriends.org or call (540) 373-3448 x. 117. $ Cabaret at Fredericksburg Square presents “Trio Caliente”Info www.fburgsquare.com/#!cabaret/c1 ocn or 540-373-9601

Thursday, November 27

Sunday, November 16

Bistro Bethem, ½ Priced Bottles of Wine, 5pm

Friday, November 28

Tuesday, November 18

Bistro Bethem, “Colonial Seafood”, 8pm

Thursday, November 20

Fredericksburg Area Museum & Cultural Center presents “Evening with an Expert”.Bill Sheild, President of the Richmond, Fredericksburg & Potomac Historical Society, will discusses the history of the local line and share stories of the men and women who made it run. This lecture is in honor of our newest acquisition, a Richmond, Fredericksburg & Potomac Railroad Conductor uniform. Evening with an Expert is free and open to the public. Info contact tjackson@famcc.org, or 540-371-3037, ext. 140.

Friday, November 21

Merry Market@The Olde Silk Mill, 1701 Princess Anne St. Fred. Area Service League present it’s 8th annual Merry Market and Jingle Bell Cocktail. This three-day boutique shopping experience, will feature a variety of one-of-a-kind artisans and vendors who are carefully selected to ensure a fun holiday shopping experience for all. Open Late Fridays Downtown Over 30 stores will be open to at least 8pm every Friday starting on First Friday. Watch for the yellow flags for participating merchants.

Saturday, November 22

Cabaret at Fredericksburg Square presents “Potomac Jazz Project Featuring Vocalist Karen Grey”. Info www.fburgsquare.com/#!cabaret/c1ocn or 540373-9601

Sunday, November 23

Bistro Bethem, ½ Priced Bottles of Wine, 5pm

Tuesday, November 25

Breakfast with the Curator, 8am, Fred. Area Museum & Cultural Center Artist and writer, Ms. Kathryn Willis will discuss the work of our newest Community Artist exhibition, John “Jack” Darling Bistro Bethem “The Approach”, 8pm

Happy Turkeyday! Let us all give thanks.

Open Late Fridays Downtown over 30 stores will be open to at least 8pm every Friday until Christmas. Watch for the yellow flags for participating merchants.

Saturday, November 29

Small Business “Early Bird Riser”, Downtown Fredericksburg, 8am-10am. over 25 stores will be open from 8am to 10am with special incentives. Look for the red carpet for participating businesses. Free Coffee & pastries until they run out at Visitor Center on William St. Breakfast service avail at VA Deli, Vivify and Eileen’s. Annual Children’s Tree Lighting @ Hurkamp Park, 4:30-6pm. Meet Santa and other holiday characters, make fun holiday crafts, experience live music and story-time, and much more! The Fredericksburg Annual Children’s Tree Lighting program is free and open to the public. Info: 540373-1776 or visitfred.com Cabaret at Fredericksburg Square presents The Great Glenn Miller Orchestra Special Area Appearance, 525 Caroline St. for info www.fburgsquare.com/#!cabaret/c1ocn or 540-373-9601

Sunday, November 30

Strolling Downtown, Step back in time with George Washington Young Friends in costume. And be on the lookout for the red suit, you never know who you might see walking downtown from 12 to 4pm. Bistro Bethem ½ Priced Bottle of Wine, 5pm If you are reading this 208th issue of FP, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 18th year of continuous publication! If you are an advertiser, list your event. Deadline for December issue is December 20. To submit events, follow this link: http://frontporchfredericksburg.com/how-ttosubmit-o online/

2353 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join

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540.899.1422 November 2014

Holiday Open House @ Downtown, All Day. Decorations are in place on Caroline and William Streets. The sense of festivities is in the air with Santa strolls, historical interpreters, and Holiday window displays. Special shopping opportunities, “Elfie Selfie” and the Window Wonderland Riddle contests are just the beginning of holiday experience in Fredericksburg!

Light Housekeeping Shopping/Errands Personal Care Flexible Hours

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Saturday November 8

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November 2014

november 2014…Be Thankful! Saturday Nov 1

Sunday, November 2

CALENDAR of events

Tuesday, November 4

Thursday, November 6

First Friday, November 7

Companionship Meal Preparation Medication Reminders Laundry

Each HomeInstead Franchise Office is Independently Owned & Operated

Front porch fredericksburg

Sunday, November 9

Bistro Bethem, 5pm, Half Price Bottles of Wine

Tuesday, November 11 Honor a Veteran Bistro Bethem Jazz”,8pm

“M-Law

The

Prophets

sampled. Heavy hor d’oeuvres will be served. To benefit Lions sight & hearing programs. Info: Tom Gorsuch at 540-891-9406 or at tgorsuch@gmail.com

Thursday, November 27

Sunday, November 16

Bistro Bethem, ½ Priced Bottles of Wine, 5pm

Friday, November 28

Tuesday, November 18

Bistro Bethem, “Colonial Seafood”, 8pm

Thursday, November 20

Friday, November 21

Saturday, November 22

Cabaret at Fredericksburg Square presents “Potomac Jazz Project Featuring Vocalist Karen Grey”. Info www.fburgsquare.com/#!cabaret/c1ocn or 540373-9601

Sunday, November 23

Bistro Bethem, ½ Priced Bottles of Wine, 5pm

Tuesday, November 25

Happy Turkeyday! Let us all give thanks.

Open Late Fridays Downtown over 30 stores will be open to at least 8pm every Friday until Christmas. Watch for the yellow flags for participating merchants.

Saturday, November 29

Sunday, November 30

2353 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join

Front Porch on

540.899.1422 November 2014

Light Housekeeping Shopping/Errands Personal Care Flexible Hours

Call for a free, no-obligation appointment

Saturday November 8

homeinstead.com front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

history’s stories

Stafford 350

SPANISH-A AMERICAN WAR By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks In 1994 a young Park Ranger, Noel Harrison wrote a book about Fredericksburg during the Spanish-American war. Noel is still employed by the National Park Service across the Rappahannock in the offices at Chatham. Noel has written several books since that time on the War Between the States. Cuba had been a “hot bed of revolt” from 1868 until on February 15, 1898 when the battleship Maine was blown up in Havana harbor, an act that would bring the United States into war. Fredericksburg had a militia unit know as the Washington Guards that became combined with Company K, Third Virginia Infantry. Company K was made up of men from Fredericksburg and the surrounding counties, however, many men who signed up for company K were assigned to other units. Company K and all of the Third Virginia were assigned to the Richmond area which upset many of the local Fredericksburg business owners due to the loss of business. They began lobbying the War Department to locate a military facility near Fredericksburg. On June 1, 1898 the Town was advised that approximated 1,000 soldiers of the Fourth United States Volunteer Infantry would establish a training camp near Fredericksburg. Not all local citizens were happy because 36 years earlier many of them fled their homes when the Union Army took over the Town and destroyed their property 1862. Over 900 of the soldiers in the 4th were African-Americans.

The camp was named “Camp Cobb” in honor of the South Carolina General Thomas Cobb who was killed during the battle in 1862. Cobb had spent many summers in Fredericksburg prior to the Civil War at the home of his grandparents on Hanover Street. Camp Cobb was a tent city with eleven streets formed by parallel rows of tents. The camp was located in the fields very near present day (old) Walker Grant School site adjacent to Dixon Street. There were many stories in the local papers concerning the soldiers, The Daily Evening Star printed a story of a court martial of Private Patrick Fahey who while intoxicated stopped a carriage of prominent citizen.. He was give five years at hard labor the most severe punishment since the start of the war. Colonel Pettit’s Discipline was not unnoticed as he received praise from the Adjutant-General stating his unit was well prepared and “ready for service. The peace treaty was signed before a single soldier from the unit saw action. Spain and the United States signed a peace agreement on August 12, 1898, Colonel Pettit and his soldiers began to break camp. On August 18th they boarded the RF & P trains and left the town. Their brief stay had been good for the merchants and many local citizens became friends with the troops. On September 9th Fredericksburg’s Company K of the Third Virginia returned home having lost 13 men due to disease only. Only three area soldiers experienced combat one of which Anthony Johnson was in the Ninth United States Cavalry (Black unit) that won San Juan Heights. After thirty eight years of bitterness Fredericksburg made its peace with the federal Union mostly due to the relationship the Town enjoyed with the solders during their brief stay at Camp Cobb.. Dedicated in memory of: Guido LaMonaca, Jean Nicholls, Chris Ford, Ed Thornton

Tuffy Hicks never fails to amaze us with his knowledge of Fredericksburg History.

george mason’s roots are in stafford County By david s. kerr Fairfax County lays claim to the legacy of George Mason. His home is at Fairfax’s Gunston Hall and there is a major university in the county that’s named for him. But this founding father, statesman, delegate to the Constitutional Convention, and most notably author of the Virginia Declaration of Rights had his beginnings in Stafford County. His roots went deep in the county’s earliest history. Mason’s Great-Grandfather was a member of the British Parliament during the English Civil War. He fought on the side of the Cavaliers (the followers of Charles I) and when he became a hunted man, headed for the new world. He quickly established himself as a planter and in 1664 was part of the successful effort to charter and name the new county called Stafford. He was, amongst many other colonial duties, the Sheriff. His son, George Mason II, our George’s grandfather established the village of Marlborough Point. This would be the center of Stafford governmental activities for years to come. And like father like son, he was the Sheriff too. George Mason III, the father of the Mason we know so well, built heavily on the success of his father and grandfather. His holdings in Stafford alone reached nearly 20,000 acres. Like his ancestors he believed in public service, serving as Colonial Lieutenant, Colonial Prosecutor, and yes, you guessed it, Sheriff. Stafford County’s current sheriff, Charlie Jett, has some distinguished predecessors. In the 1735, the George Mason we know was born. But, his upbringing was difficult. His father, who owned a ferry service, was drowned on one of its runs. His mother had already passed on. He was only 13. However, he was quickly taken in by his uncle John Mercer. Mercer, originally born in Ireland, had made his fortune in the new world and established

the Marlborough Plantation. He was a lawyer who served as George Washington’s attorney. He also had one of the largest private libraries in the American Colonies. There were law books, histories, mathematical texts, books in Latin and Greek, and books on philosophy. It was an extraordinary collection and this is where George Mason, author of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, received what was effectively, his higher education. Mason eventually left Stafford. He continued to own extensive properties in the county, but his base was now further north. Like all of his American ancestors, from his great-grandfather on down, he was a Member of the House of Burgesses. And loyal to the King. However when the time came, he made his choice in favor of Independence from Britain. While always an important figure in colonial era politics and during the revolution his star role was during the debate over the Constitution. He, and others, felt that the new national charter put too much power in the hands of the federal government. There weren’t enough restrictions on its reach in terms of civil liberties and nor were there any limitations on its power with the regard to the states. There needed to be a balance. George Mason’s Virginia Declaration of Rights, almost word for word, is the basis for the Bill of Rights. Mason may be known for his life in Fairfax, but his roots, and his early and impressive intellectual development began in Stafford.

Spotlight On Pappagallo Fine Gifts & Imports By Mary Lynn Powers Traveling through town on William St., if you stop at the light at Princess Anne across from Hyperion Coffee, you may have noticed the bouncing planes and air balloons in the shop on the right. These are called Wupper Planes. They are landmarks at that stopping point; they are eye catching; they are triggers to memories of childhood. If you should grace the door of Pappagallo Fine Gifts and Imports, you will find a paradise of items that are original and unique. Recently, Heritage Gifts owned by Peggy Dimaio was bought by long time friend Suzanne J. Metzger. This shop was Suzanne’s secret source, a place to shop for her husband who she admits has everything and more. If you want to shop for birthdays, housewarmings, hostess gifts, this is a definite go to. Suzanne hopes to maintain the integrity of the clientele that Peggy has built over the years, but also plans to bring in some newer items from local artisans and craftsmen. Some of these

newer products include hand marbled silk scarves designed by a retired school teacher in Connecticut, and Roman Glass jewelry, which one must see to appreciate. Suzanne expanded the Lampe Berger line which is a fragrance diffuser for the home that originates from Paris, and has been a favorite for many years in Fredericksburg. When you enter the shop, you are overwhelmed by the amount of different things that are available. It is like the feel of walking into a museum, there is so much beauty. During the grand reopening, local art was demonstrated by an artist who lived in Italy, and is available now for sale. One can find pieces from different parts of the world, as well as around the corner. Some staple include Peter Chapman’s woodwork who hails from Virginia, a collection of animal puzzles that are put together, housing oddities inside, such as a penguin with pup, and a wolf with a moon inside. Incredibly creative, and lovely to behold. And of course, there is the Wuppers!

It’s always amazing when I talk with new business owners about their passion to bring their dreams to life. Suzanne worked for Geico for 15 years, but dreamed of an opportunity to think for herself, to be creative in her every day work and to be her own boss. These are thoughts we all harbor, but bringing them to fruition is another nut. Suzanne took the dive when her friend Peggy decided to retire in order to spend more time with her family. She took ownership in May of 2014 after the whirlwind of legal procedures necessary to own a business in Fredericksburg, and hasn’t looked back since. Though located off the normal track of gift shops, Pappagallo Gifts is right on the path of “restaurant row” in

the burg, and should be an easy stop before a good meal. It is a great spot to start the gift shopping for the season to come. I managed to knock one gift off the list during my talk with Suzanne, a disappearing “Tardis” coffee mug from the Dr. Who series. A Dr. Who fan must have! Obviously, I think this shop is one of Fredericksburg’s finest. Check it out, I think you’ll agree. Fine Pappagallo at 300 William Street & @www.pappagallofinegifts.com

Mary Lynn Powers brings us news on interesting people and places in the Fredericksburg area.

David Kerr is a member of the Stafford 350 Committee and a frequent contributor to Front Porch

Central Rappahannock

HERITAGE CENTER Volunteers needed to process historical documents and aid researchers. Training provided. Phone 540-373-3704 or email crhc@verizon.net Open to the public for scholarly research

The Heritage Center 18

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

Maury Commons

900 Barton St

Fredericksburg front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

history’s stories

Stafford 350

Tuffy Hicks never fails to amaze us with his knowledge of Fredericksburg History.

Mary Lynn Powers brings us news on interesting people and places in the Fredericksburg area.

David Kerr is a member of the Stafford 350 Committee and a frequent contributor to Front Porch

Central Rappahannock

HERITAGE CENTER Volunteers needed to process historical documents and aid researchers. Training provided. Phone 540-373-3704 or email crhc@verizon.net Open to the public for scholarly research

The Heritage Center 18

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

Maury Commons

900 Barton St

Fredericksburg front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Companions

AutoKnown Better

animals at the table

be thankful that you have a dump

By alexis grogan So as we all know Thanksgiving is coming,: family, fun and food, lots of food! But, we also want to include our pets right? Well we can and we can’t. Although we always want to include a pet in our dinner meals (well at least I do), most of the food we give to our animals that we think is ok, really isn’t. Such as onions, onions contain disulfide, which is harmless to humans, but very harmful to pets. It causes hemolytic anemia, and even two slices a week and damage red blood cells, which can lead to lack of oxygen. Another thing we like to give to our dos are bones, the bones that are store bought are ok but chicken bones and meaty bones can break off in your dogs mouth and get lodged in the pets throat or stomach, the small bone shards can rip through the stomach lining causing internal bleeding and possibly death. Lets talk turkey! We all love turkey! So do our pets, but if you are going to give any poultry to your pets make sure it is cooked all the way through. Also do not give the turkey skin to your

pet it can give them Pancreatitis. Potatoes on the other hand, cook and mashed are good for dogs. Some fruits are not recommended for dogs either like grape

and raisins, these can cause kidney failure; with dogs that already have predisposed health problem these symptoms may be more severe. Macadamia nuts are a huge problem for dogs, they can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and

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November 2014

10 Walsh Lane Front porch fredericksburg

hypothermia in dogs, avoid these at all costs. If you are baking bread, do not give bread dough to your dog; the dough has live yeast in it, which can expand in your dogs’ stomach, stomach expansion can lead to decreased blood flow, which can lead to heart attacks, We all love to have a few drinks during the holidays, who doesn’t? Well as much as you may think its ok to give your dog a little taste of beer or liquor, its not. Alcohol has the same effect on a dog’s brain and liver as it does to a human, but it take far less to do just as much damage. Just a little can cause vomiting, diarrhea, coordination problems, coma, even death, and smaller the dog, greater the effect. After all the festivities are over, and everyone just wants to relax we all drink coffee, well ok for humans, not so much for dogs. The symptoms of caffeine poisoning include restlessness, fast breathing, heart palpitations, and bleeding, Caffeine can be found in coffee, tea, cola, and energy drinks. So who else puts ice cream on their pumpkin pie? I do! Ice cream is delicious; your pet may also think so, until you give it to him. Giving any kind of dairy products can cause diarrhea, and other digestive problems. Let’s Review The No Foods Include: Onions Chicken/Turkey bones; Turkey skin Macadamia nuts Bread dough Coffee, Alcohol, Tea, Cola & Energy drinks Dairy products Raisins, Grapes It’s funny when you think about how much of the food we eat is really bad for your pets; I’m honestly surprised my dog is still alive with all the food he has gotten into in his life! If you need someone to watch your pet while you are out of town with family for the holidays, send me an email! Lexig0892@gmail.com I love your pets like they are my own!

Alexis Grogan is the owner of “Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service” she can be reached at 540-903-0437, lexig0892@gmail.com, or on facebook

"Our family wants to take care of your family." 10839 Tidewater Trail Fredericksburg, VA 22408 540-361-7050 www.tidewatertrail.com We are on Facebook & Twitter.

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bottom layer and out it comes. Or… you load them the other way and they become a tangled mess, a slinky that has lost its will to live, a load that needs to be offloaded one stick at a time. Now after a considerable wait for the clot at the brush bins to move on one of the gentlemen trying to escape from Flossie for a few hours decides to sweep out his truck bed with a tiny whisk broom and then check under the seats for used coffee cups. He then strolls to the household bin with a few old coat hangers and ponders are they are household or metal scrap? Now of course the newspapers and blogs are abuzz with the issue of dump fees because of years of deficit spending. They want to solve the problem with tags, and stickers and such. What are they thinking? All they need is some bleachers so we can watch the circus as it unfolds each day. The proceeds from ticket sales and the beer and hot dog concession will bail them out. It is a lot like single stream recycling; entertainment tax, food tax, booze tax and gross receipts tax all in one. Kind of like a ball park. My wife makes sure I am organized when I go to the dump. The trash bags are on the left and the recycling is on the right, just like the dumpsters are set up. In, out, home… it only takes a few minutes. I want to go in the Women Only lane. I’ll dress appropriately.

Old Town’s Greatest Tour

When it’s time to say “Good-bye”

Fredericksburgtrolley.com

when “the plan” doesn’t go as planned By c. ruth cassell

By Rim Vining Every now and then the thoughts that pop into my head become topical overnight. I recently returned from my weekly trip to the Belman Road trash and recycling drop off center where upon my bride asked her usual question, “How were the clowns at the dump today?” To be clear this refers to the patrons not the staff and it had been a unique trip that day so I had already prepared my response. I simply said, “If there were two lines at the dump, one for men and one for women, I would gladly put on makeup and dress in drag just to avoid being in line behind the collective clot of my own gender.” It defies description that grown men, many of whom have careers with immense responsibility for the safety and well-being of our country, cannot effectively load and then unload four bags of trash and a box of beer bottles. Granted for many of these men ‘dump time’ is precious ‘alone time.’ My grandfather used the dump run to get away from Flossie and then he went to the Rexall and got a cup of coffee and bonded with other male comrades. It was guy time. It was an imperceptible nod acknowledging a shared secret like motorcycle rider’s down low wave or the man with one red shoe. It was so bad this time that I actually had to parallel-park to off-load so I didn’t block the traffic lane. I was done with trash in 15 seconds and made two other stops with wood and recycling and was gone before the collective clot had unloaded anything. They pop the trunk and then stare at the mound of trash wondering how in the hell it got in the back of their vehicle…. and now what do they do with it? The brush bins are no better. I load my truck with branches towards the cab. Then all you do to unload is pull the

My Own Path

540-898-0737

Fog greeted the day, and steady rain played background to our playful chatter. Tucked away in a toasty home, we barely cared the sun never showed up this Sunday. We spent the afternoon getting odd jobs done around the house and attempting to decipher the Pokemon trading card game. Around dinner time, I asked my seven-year-old son to get the cards off the dining room table and clean up the game board spread across the living room. His plan was to get almost all the cards and the coins and game Adaptability: pieces inside the original small tin “It is not the strongest of the species that package for the cards. He carefully survive, nor the most intelligent; it is the placed everything inside. More one that is most adaptable to change.” careful than usual because the -Charles Darwin Pokemon cards (for some reason I cannot determine) are really also allow them to bypass some of the vital important to him. He also insisted on life lessons learned from running getting the two plastic space holders from headstrong into a relationship or job the original package back into the box. He convinced that just because I say it’s so, it pushed and pushed on the top, certain he will be so. was going to get it to close. Since I do not think parenting, or “It won’t work the way I want it living for that matter, is about avoiding to,” I heard him cry from my station in hard lessons, I think my best bet is to front of the stove. model adaptability for the rest of my son’s Cry doesn’t really explain the early years. If he sees me back flip into the level of upset my boy had reached. He was deep end every time a doctor’s nearly inconsolable, questioning why he appointment runs late or there’s an bought the cards in the first place, unexpected repair at home or with the car wondering about his ultimate demise (not (all of which happened in the last month), really, that’s just my attempt at humor.) then he’ll only know one way to react. Not wanting to fix it for him, but It’s obvious by the Pokemon not wanting to condone his highly over catastrophe he could use a few more reactive state, I sat down on the floor examples of accepting and adapting to beside him. change. Or else I really don’t get the “Is being upset making this whole Pokemon thing (which is completely better or worse?” I asked. possible). This is a common question I pose when he’s obviously more upset than C. Ruth Cassell writes for the Front warranted by the situation, and I when I Porch from her satellite location in Roanoke, VA, where she learns everyday actually have the patience to await a that a plan is just a hope pinned to the response. wind. Find more of her musings at “Worse,” he whimpers. www.attentionanonymous.wordpress.com We were painstakingly making our way to a solution when something dawned on me. My child needs to learn adaptability. I swear it’s taken me every bit of 35 years to realize a fundamental life truth. Just because I make a plan and want something to be a certain way, there is little to no chance it will work out according to my plan. I will either have to adjust my plan or adjust my expectation to come close to an outcome I can tolerate. Teaching children to adapt to changing circumstances, and in fact to expect change, could save them a great deal of wasted time and energy. It could

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when “the plan” doesn’t go as planned By c. ruth cassell

My Own Path

540-898-0737

Front Porch Fredericksburg

Supporting Local Artists Since 1997

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November 2014

Senior Care

Natural Health

increase your brain power

Balancing your life with Harmonic Resonance Therapy By Suzy Woollam

By Karl Karch

The brain is an amazingly complex organ. It is our most important organ because it controls all of the bodily functions as well as other organs. As many as 100 billion neurons are in the brain, yet it only weighs roughly three pounds. Many research studies have been conducted assessing the impact of aging on brain functioning and ways to improve brain functioning. All information enters the brain and is first registered and briefly stored as sensory memory. If we don’t do something with this information, it will be lost very quickly. The way we process this information is affected by age. Much research on everyday memory deals with the issue of automatic (unconscious) vs. effortful (intentional) processing. As the name implies automatic processing occurs automatically without conscious awareness. Researchers found that automatic processing of information does not decline as we age. Effortful processing involves more complicated tasks that require the brain to consciously pay more attention to the information it processes, thus requiring more deliberate effort and brain resources. An example is driving slowly down the street (automatic) while looking for a specific address (effortful). Research studies determined that the brain’s effortful capacity does decline as we age, beginning in middle age (40-50 years old). The good news is that the brain’s decline can not only be slowed, but actually reversed with mental and/or physical exercise. There are simple ways to keep older adults’ brains challenged and engaged during the day. Playing board games such as Scrabble, Risk, Pictionary, or Monopoly with friends combines mental stimulation with social interaction. Senior adults can also play Sudoku, complete crossword or jigsaw puzzles, play card games, or chess. Challenge the brain on a daily basis by

November 2014

doing puzzles, taking classes, or reading. When it comes to cognitive abilities of the brain, there are two choices - use it or lose it. Being socially active by participating in community activities not only provides regular communications with new people, but it also stimulates the brain by learning new names. UCLA researchers found that older adults who regularly used a brainfitness program on a computer demonstrated significantly improved memory and language skills. Here are two excellent websites for brain-fitness programs:http://www.skillsyouneed.com/ and https://www.dakim.com/. ; It is important to note that true brain exercise requires novelty, variety, and increasing levels of challenge. There’s no such thing as being “too old” to physically exercise. Many of us remember Jack LaLanne, the “godfather of fitness” who exercised two hours per day at the age of 94. Well, take comfort in knowing that even simple leisure physical activity like walking, gardening, or range of motion exercising at low to moderate levels improves memory performance for sedentary older adults. And, the effects of exercise - any exercise on overall cognitive function can be profound. Sandra Bond Chapman, Ph.D., founder and chief director of the Center for BrainHealth said: “Physical exercise may be one of the most beneficial and cost-effective therapies widely available to everyone to elevate memory performance.” Incorporating physical and mental exercises will lead to improved cognitive brain health. So, don’t lose it! There are plenty of enjoyable ways to use and increase your brain power. Karl Karch is a local franchise owner of Home Instead Senior Care, a licensed home care organization providing personal care, companionship and home helper services in the Fredericksburg and Culpeper region. .

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With the change of season, are you feeling out of balance, or out of tune? Maybe it’s time for you to give Harmonic Resonance Therapy a try. Harmonic Resonance Therapy, or HRT, is a noninvasive treatment designed and developed by Suzy Woollam that uses calibrated tuning forks applied to specific points to access the body’s meridians, chakras and etheric body. Since the human body is primarily water, which is a magnificent conductor of sound frequencies, HRT assists the body in realigning its energies, providing a state of calmness and relaxation.

HRT provides a more precise method of applying sound waves (tones) to the body and energy field. These tones harness the body’s natural resonant capacity, and assist in creating movement, releasing blockages and restoring balance within the system. This type of sound therapy works not only on the physical body, but on the etheric body as well. HRT is based on the concept of resonance, or vibratory frequency, of an object. All objects have a natural frequency or set of frequencies at which they vibrate. HRT utilizes sound to establish (or re-establish) a healthy vibration in all parts of the human organism by increasing vibration, expansion and contraction on a cellular, and even sub-cellular level. This provides us with the opportunity to reach a deeper state of relaxation, release accumulated stress and toxins, improve and repair ourselves at a cellular level, and ultimately to function more effectively. The most wonderful thing about sound therapy is that it can be easily incorporated into nearly every type of healing modality, whether massage, chiropractic, physical therapy, hypnosis, energy work and even Aromatherapy. It is presently being used successfully in our community by Massage Therapists, Naturopaths, Clinical Aromatherapists and Tai Chi instructors to facilitate a greater level of comfort in their clients. Suzy has trained a number of therapists in our area to use HRT in their practice, and offers classes with continuing education credits in HRT.

To find out more about HRT, contact Suzy at The Scenter of Town 907 Charles St.

The Natural Path Holistic Health Center

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4413 Lafayette Blvd. Fredericksburg

Wellness thoughts from the healthcare fringe By christine h. thompson, D.C. Having been raised by a devout non-conformist father, it is no accident that I became a chiropractor. After 120 years in existence and being declared the 2nd most popular form of healthcare, chiropractic is still only utilized by less than 10% of the population. Chiropractic is still on the fringe. The danger of being part of the fringe is that, feeling threatened and opposed by many, we begin to accept as truth any information that goes against conventional wisdom. We start to believe the propaganda from “our side” and wholly discard the propaganda from the other side. Hopefully we make up for this failing with the contributions we make to healthcare as a consequence of our tendency to question what most people deem common knowledge. We are increasingly finding conventional healthcare practices that are not substantiated by evidence, known physiology or even common sense. They are accepted because the authorities say it is so. An example of this is the current belief that acid reflux or GERD is caused by too much stomach acid which then requires medication to stop the acid production. In actuality it is rare to find a condition that causes excess stomach acid production. It has been known for many decades that, when under stress, the stomach stops production of acid and digestion virtually stops. Yet at times of intense stress people often get acid reflux and sometimes end up with stomach ulcers. If the stomach is producing less acid with stress, what causes the ulcers? Without acid to break it down, food stays in the stomach and ferments, producing acid which then backs up the esophagus and causes the burning of “heartburn” or acid reflux. Hence the problem is not too much stomach acid, but not enough stomach acid. When Australian scientists discovered ulcers were caused by H. pylori (a beneficial bacteria that multiplies out of control in an environment of low stomach acid) in 1982 they were ridiculed. It wasn’t until the evidence became overwhelming that they were awarded the Nobel Prize in 2005. This is the journey of the non-conformist. To put this scenario in perspective, acid-stopping meds are now the number one selling prescription drug in our country. And because they prevent food from breaking down properly, they are contributing to the mal-nourishment

of our nation and many nutritionallyrelated conditions. Another example of this counterintuitive truth nugget is the issue of gluten. Does it make sense that gluten, a natural protein in grain, is detrimental for us? It does, if you take into account the fact that, (according to Dr. Perlmutter in Grain Brain), there is 40 times more gluten in our hybridized wheat today than when our ancestors first stumbled upon wild wheat. It just isn’t part of our natural diet, we don’t digest it well and many believe it is triggering everything from allergies to autoimmune conditions. One of the most critical misguided beliefs of our culture is that germs are the cause of disease. The fact is, our bodies contain ten times more microbes that human cells. That’s right – we have 10 trillion cells in our bodies and 100 trillion bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other forms of microbes designed to keep out harmful bugs, break down our food and perform many other vital functions. The truth is that an unhealthy, unbalanced body is the root cause of disease. Our germ-phobia is disturbing the balance of microbes in our world and it is evidenced by the complexity and illusiveness of the health issues increasingly appearing today. I could provide many other examples, but I hope the forgoing has convinced you to question even our most foundational beliefs and join me on the fringe!

Dr. Christine Thompson is the owner of Whole Health Chiropractic.She can be reached at 540-899-9421 or www.wholehealth.net.

Healthcare For the Whole Person SPECIALIZING IN: ` Gentle, Individualized Chiropractic Care ` Cranio-Sacral Balancing (Sacro Occipital Technique - SOT) ` Addressing Your Total Health Needs with Natural, Holistic Treatment Methods ` Detoxification/Weight Loss Nutritional Programs

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Dr. Christine Thompson November 2014

Senior Care

Natural Health

increase your brain power

Balancing your life with Harmonic Resonance Therapy By Suzy Woollam

By Karl Karch

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

To find out more about HRT, contact Suzy at The Scenter of Town 907 Charles St.

The Natural Path Holistic Health Center

891-6200

www.thenaturalpath.us

4413 Lafayette Blvd. Fredericksburg

Dr. Christine Thompson is the owner of Whole Health Chiropractic.She can be reached at 540-899-9421 or www.wholehealth.net.

front porch fredericksburg

Dr. Christine Thompson November 2014

M & S Studio by megan byrnes

giving you tools to achieve your dreams By Christina Ferber

Have you ever felt like learning how to play a new instrument? What about trying modeling or acting on for size? Whether you are a beginner or advanced, young or old, it’s never too late to learn or expand a talent and our area offers a one-stop shop for all of your performing arts needs.

Fredericksburg area we were trend setters,” says Sabine Kvenberg, co-owner of the studio. Together with her husband Mykal, they share their extensive musical theater and performing arts backgrounds by offering a wide range of classes under one roof. T h o u g h they began by offering acting, dance, and voice lessons, M &S has since expanded into all forms of music and modeling. “In musical theater it is important to be skilled in acting, dance, and voice. Later on we added more options in order to pass on our love for the performing arts to future generations,” says Mykal. Classes are offered to all ages, starting with a preschool dance option,

Scene: return to Fredericksburg to help out with camps and programs. Using the skills developed at M & S, they have performed on world tours, Broadway musicals, and starred on national television and in major motion pictures. “We provide a welcoming family friendly environment where our students create memories that last a lifetime. Students can take what they learn and implement it into their future life,” says Sabine. “We work hard to develop self confidence in a fun way so students can succeed.” From recreational opportunities for the beginner to more advanced classes that might lead to your big break, M & S provides the tools to achieve your dreams. “With the right training, anyone can reach their potential,” says Sabine. Visit http://mandsstudio.com to find out more about classes and programs offered.

Christina Ferber is a teacher, mother, and a fan of all the arts.

Bill and Emily Freehling

making their first Laura Craig original art purchase at LibertyTown on First Friday; Drew Fristoe(below) at Benny Vitali’s with friends making strong work of an entire pie. If you haven’t been to BV’s yet, you may not realize what “entire pie” actually means. It means a dining room table sized pizza. Also, if you haven’t been to BV’s yet, I highly suggest you do because that pizza is SO GOOD!

Scene: Ryan Ridgely enjoying a

The Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center hosted the 2nd annual Food Fight Fredericksburg last

Fredericksburg Time Co.

M & S Studio, located in the Uptown area of Central Park, specializes in bringing clients and the entertainment industry together. The studio just celebrated twenty years of serving the Fredericksburg area in June, and hopes to stick around for twenty more. “When we first came to the

November 2014

beer with friends at Capital Ale House; Lauren Kennedy grabbing a coffee to go at Hyperion Espresso; Jannan Holmes stopping by Ponshop and Skin + Touch Therapy during her First Friday rounds; former Redskins Darryl Green at La Petite Auberge; Ken Crampton getting into a little thrifting action at a local Goodwill; Nicole Gebhart perusing the coffee aisles of Wegmans; Tracy and Tim Bray drinking a Calvin-created cocktail at the Kybecca bar; Jeff Johnson walking home with Castiglia’s take-out on a perfectly Fall-ish Friday night (p.s. we’re neighbors and I’m just not sure why I wasn’t asked if I wanted any??).

Scene:

UMW hosted Dancing

with the Fredericksburg Stars on October 11th, where some of Fredericksburg’s brightest stars took the stage to help

endow a scholarship for students who excel in theatre, dance and music (last I heard, they were able to raise $75K! What Florence Ridderhof , Joe a success!). Wilson, John Wack, John Moss Jr, Regis Keddie II, John Fick, Debby Girvan, Janel Donohue and Lisa Crittenden all participated as dancers; their profesh partners were all dancers from Strictly Ballroom Dance Studio. Susan Spears, Rosendo Fumero (former US champion in

the American Style Smooth open division, Wyant served as judges. and Melanie Kay-W Terrie Crawley took home “Best in Show” while Florence Ridderhof secured the popular vote as the People’s Choice.(left, with partner Michael Scott, photo by Karen Pearlman)

Scene:

Jess and Jeremy Sutton

cheering on our Nats during a playoff series home game (how exciting too, right?); Randall Farren and Jenn Hare (above) cheering on our other team, the Orioles, who also awesomely made it super far in the post-season; Erin Priest setting up her new art studio above Forage after getting back from vacation.

and scholarships are available as well. Group and private lessons are offered throughout the year, with showcases and recitals presented twice a year. Performing arts summer camp programs include all aspects of the musical theater industry with a show given at the end of the onetwo week long camps. For those with the more serious intention of breaking into “the business” a specialty program is also available on an audition only basis. Both Kvenbergs are Regional Directors for a program called “ARTS,” a national organization that searches for up and coming talent. “For those interested in the program, we offer hands-on training and explain the entertainment and modeling industries. We also get their marketing and audition materials put together, and then get them in front of agents, managers, casting directors and music industry professionals,” says Mykal. M & S Studio claims alumni who have broken into the industry and often

month complete with an outdoor after party catered by Foode. The event featured food and décor inspired by different countries with local restaurants teaming up with local designers to execute the vision for their chosen country. Bavarian Chef chose Germany (I mean, obviously) and took home first place in a tie with the Sunken Well Tavern who served ceviche to go with their Mexican theme. Vivify and Forage created an outdoor Spanish café complete with rocky cliffs, sangria and paella. Mason Dixon Café gave us strong Caribbean vibes and the Kenmore Inn went full fancy French style. Lots of Fredericksburg’s coolest peeps took the world tour: Tom Wack, Matt Kelly, Jodie Vaughn, Anna Mitsis, Don and Christie Doherty, David, Lisa and Caitlin Durham, Trystan Bennett, and Holly Bisbee to name only a few!

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Happy November Bdays to Cedric Rucker,above, (whose European adventure Facebook photos last month were making me green with envy!), Joelle Gilbert, Hap Connors, Christina Ferber, Tom Eskam, Matt Paxson; Mirinda Reynolds; and Wayne Gootee, Katie Hornung, Kent Ippolitto, Christine Thompson, Michael Dean, Scott Howson, Todd Woollam, & Bill Freehling

Heard:

One of our favorite

local restaurateurs is packing up and heading down 95 to her brand new (except by brand new I mean historic and full of charm) row house for a fun fresh start. front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

M & S Studio by megan byrnes

giving you tools to achieve your dreams By Christina Ferber

Christina Ferber is a teacher, mother, and a fan of all the arts.

Bill and Emily Freehling

Scene: Ryan Ridgely enjoying a

The Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center hosted the 2nd annual Food Fight Fredericksburg last

Fredericksburg Time Co.

November 2014

Scene:

UMW hosted Dancing

with the Fredericksburg Stars on October 11th, where some of Fredericksburg’s brightest stars took the stage to help

Scene:

Jess and Jeremy Sutton

Front porch fredericksburg

Exclusively at

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212 William Street,Fredericksburg 540-373-5513 Mon-Fri 9:30-6; Sat 9:30-5

Heard:

One of our favorite

local restaurateurs is packing up and heading down 95 to her brand new (except by brand new I mean historic and full of charm) row house for a fun fresh start. front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Applause

FXBG Music Scene Bumper Jacksons Make FXBG Debut!

...for susan carter morgan

by wendy Larue

By susan larson

photo by s.larson Words as Art Susan Carter Morgan had an affinity for writing even as a child. The cofounder of Water Street Studio, Writing and Arts remembers walking around her neighborhood when she was about nine, selling newspapers she’d hand-produced. Today, Morgan shares her love of writing through workshops at Water Street Studio. “We focus on strengths and not weaknesses,” she said of her classes. The language used in critiquing can create an environment that makes people feel safe, and stimulates creativity, she said. Morgan and her Water Street art partners Elizabeth Seaver and Lynette Reed were members of LibertyTown Arts Workshop when they became friends. They started taking about how cool it would be to have a writing and arts studio. “At first those kinds of talks are always dreams,” Morgan said. But then a friend told them about the space available at 915-A Sophia Street. “We walked in and started envisioning ourselves there,” she said. They opened Water Street Studio on October 1, 2013. The trio hosted a first anniversary party last month. “I love connecting with people, sharing their experiences and telling their stories,” Morgan said of her writing. Her more recent works have been published in Emory Literary Magazine, Vine Leaves Literary Journal and The Nearest Poem Anthology. Her greater satisfaction, she said, is in being part of a community of writers and helping others with their writing. Morgan’s workshops for children and teens include Writing Strategies,

November 2014

learning how to organize and produce solid writing; Creative Writing, a group for children eight and older who love to write stories and poems; and Illustrating My World, journaling with art/mixed media for middle-school girls. Classes for adults include a Wednesday morning women’s writing circle, a once-a-month “Writing Workout” meeting, with the opportunity to read aloud whatever you’re working on and receive gentle feedback from the group, and workshops on specific topics, like memoir writing, with published authors. Morgan herself is currently focusing on poetry. “I was distracted from creative writing by the work I had to do,” Morgan said of her family and career responsibilities, which included 16-years as a technology and writing teacher at Fredericksburg Academy. Retirement has provided the time to pursue more creative

Front porch fredericksburg

endeavors. Her love of words has expanded into letterpress printing. Long fascinated with metal type, Morgan took an all day class, “to do something with this [interest] or get it out of my system,” she said. She was hooked. In letterpress printing, a worker composes and locks movable type into the bed of a press, inks it, and presses paper against. The ink transfers from the type and creates an impression on the paper. “I am fascinated by how type and space interact; how design impacts the message we’re trying to send out,” Morgan said. She has a letterpress printer in her studio at Water Street, where she makes cards and signs. She plans to typeset and print some of her poetry. Morgan moved to Fredericksburg in the mid-1970s at a time “when downtown was disintegrating,” she said. “I love what’s happening now through the Fredericksburg Main Street Initiative (FMSI).” The nonprofit’s purpose is to preserve, enhance and promote Fredericksburg’s traditional commercial downtown. Morgan volunteered for a few projects and in October was elected to serve on the group’s Board of Directors. She’s using her writing skill there, too, in promoting the plans, programs and achievements of the downtown community she calls home.

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Susan Larson writes about the Fredericksburg area and its residents on her online web site Fredericksburg.Today http://fredericksburg.today/, on Facebook (Fredericksburg Today) and Twitter @Fxbg2day.

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Jess Eliot Myhre and Chris Ousley, the original members of The Bumper Jacksons’, first inspiration in starting a project together was their interest in twostepping—a dance you’ll see from Tennessee to east Texas and a hallmark of southern Americana. “We found out quickly that we can two step country music, but we can two step to swing, we can two step to blues,” Ousley said. “We can just change the phrasing but it’s the same step and it fit all these different musics that were all coming from the southern U.S.” It was in this discovery that Ousley and Myhre started forging a style of their own. It’s a style they describe as an early jazz and country repertoire that spans music from New Orleans’ brothels to Appalachian hollers. “We liked the music we were listening to today, but who were they listening to in the classic rock era, and who were they listening to in the music of the 40 and 50s and who were they listening to in the 10s and 20s,” Ousley said. “Going out to see all these different bands, there is this common core of groove that we have been listening to and trying to make our own sound. We have been noticing all the similarities between these reasonably diverse genres and there’s sort of a common core we all hear.” Along with the developing sound, came a growing band, which now includes not only Myhre on vocals, clarinet, and washboard and Ousley on guitar and vocals, but also Alex Lacquement on bass and harmony vocals, Dan Cohan on suitcase percussion and snare, Dave Hadley on pedal steele, and Brian Priebe

on trombone and harmony vocals. The combination of tradition with a twist and diverse talent garnered the group the Best Traditional Folk Band award at the 2013 Washington Area Music Awards. Ousley said The Bumper Jacksons have played in the Richmond and Washington, D.C. areas, but are drawn to Fredericksburg for the opportunity to play in the Music & Spirits concert series at the A. Smith Bowman Distillery, a new series, new city and opportunity to see new faces—always great things. The band will play on Nov. 22, along with opening act Karen Jonas with Tim Bray. “The concert series when I first heard about it seemed really interesting. I liked the fact that it was in a historic place,” Ousley said. “It seemed to be a new series that was getting new attention. I wanted to be a part of something like that.” Tickets for the concert are $18 online at musicandspirits.com or $20 at the door. Wendy LaRue, owner of AhHa! Consulting, LLC, is a Fredericksburgbased writer and editor.

front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Applause

FXBG Music Scene Bumper Jacksons Make FXBG Debut!

...for susan carter morgan

by wendy Larue

By susan larson

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

Advanced Dental Care of Fredericksburg Call Us at 540-891-9911

Susan Larson writes about the Fredericksburg area and its residents on her online web site Fredericksburg.Today http://fredericksburg.today/, on Facebook (Fredericksburg Today) and Twitter @Fxbg2day.

$599 Crown

With this Coupon only for non-insured patients. Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer Expires 121/14 A $239 .00 Value

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November 2014

HollyBurg locals strike oscar gold

The Freeway Revival By Ashleigh Chevalier

By gary olsen I consistently win wagers proving that the Fredericksburg area plays a major influence in the lives of award-winning Hollywood film makers and performers for any five-year period. And the period under discussion in my next free film lecture on November 6th at 6:30 p.m. at the Central Rappahannock Library, 1201 Caroline Street, focusing on the Academy Awards from 2005 to 2009, is no exception. One of today’s most popular actresses is Sandra Bullock, winner of the Best Actress Oscar for 2009’s The Blind Side. Few know that Ms. Bullock is a native Virginian, born in Arlington. Her father, John, worked at the Army’s Military Postal Service, where he purchased a house in the Woodmont neighborhood of Arlington— 2925 26th Street North, to be precise—at Sandra’s birth in 1964. He continued ownership of the house while stationed in Germany before returning to Virginia to become a contractor for the Pentagon. Sandra attended Washington-Lee High School, where greatness in acting must be in the water coolers since the school has alums Forrest Tucker, Warren Beatty and Shirley MacLaine. While there, Sandra was a cheerleader (you can look up her high school cheerleading skills on YouTube) and honed her acting skills in school productions before graduating in 1982. A footnote: Sandra attended East Carolina University and was three credits shy of graduating when she decided to head up to New York City to launch her professional acting career. Speaking of Washington-Lee High School, another graduate (1964), Stan Wilson, was a special effects expert who broke new ground in James Cameron’s The Terminator. The University of Virginia alum (Class of 1968) was nominated for 10 Oscars for his special effects work and won three Oscars for his work in Cameron’s Aliens, Terminator 2 and Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park. Towards the end of his life, Wilson was an

On Stage . . .

invaluable advisor to Cameron in his 2009 Best Picture nominee Avatar. Wilson died in 2008 from multiple myeloma. 2006’s quirky independent film, Little Miss Sunshine, received the Academy Awards’ Best Original Screenplay. Its scriptwriter, Virginia’s own Michael Arndt, was handed the Oscar for his work after he had revised the script over 100 times before production. Arndt, whose father was in the Foreign Service, was born in McLean, Virginia, and after his father’s short stint in India, returned to attend middle school in McLean’s The Potomac School before graduating from Langley High School in 1984. Arndt ended up in New York University and became a script reader as well as a personal assistant to actor Matthew Broderick. It was then he decided to embark on his scriptwriting adventure in Sunshine. Arndt was also Oscar nominated for his work in Toy Story 3. And he’s written a couple of scripts, including Hunger Games: Catching Fire, under the pseudonym Michael DeBruyn. Two other Oscar nominated performers during this time frame have local roots: Casey Affleck, Ben’s younger brother, attended Washington, D.C.’s George Washington University. He was nominated for his 2007 role in The Assassination of Jesse James. And D.C.’s very own Taraji Henson, who was nominated for her role as Brad Pitt’s adopted mother in The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons, attended Howard University and worked two jobs to pay her tuition: at the Pentagon as a secretary and the Odyssey Cruise Lines out of D.C. as a waitress.

Gary Olsen gives film lectures to serve examples to the area’s youth that Hollywood dreams can be realized with hard work and incredible luck.

The Freeway Revival, formerly known to some of the locals as Same Ol’ Sound, is coming through. After six, yes six, cross country tours, supporting their debut album, Songs From Home, the band is excited to release their second album, Over The Mountain. The band, like many musical groups, has morphed through phases and faces of different members, but the core trio remains the same: Culpeper, Virginia raised identical twin brothers Adam and Jonathan Clayton, and guitarist, Joey Lee. Like many famed jam behinds before them (Phish, The Band, Grateful Dead), the three are multi-instrumentalists. Adam primarily plays keys, Jonathan plays guitar, but at any given show you can witness any one of the guys playing drums, bass, mandolin, guitar. Hard touring can wear a band out. It is not east living show to show, gallon to gallon on the highway, and couch to couch. But, “Seeing the people and friends we have across the country now, getting up and playing for people, having that one big show in the tour, that’s what keeps us going,” Lee shares. Over the Mountain is anticipated by many and promises an exciting new year on the road. Producer John Ryan (Allman Brothers, Styx, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Imagine Dragons) helped craft a strong

sound for the gents’ original tunes; a blend of rockin’ Americana sounds, ranging in influence from southern blues to classic country western, are brought back to their acoustic origination. The Freeway Revival has a sound all their own, unique and diverse like The Band, yet relatable like Skynyrd. As far as these guys have roamed, they always bring it back home. On Friday, November 28, The Freeway Revival will host their CD Release at The State Theater of Culpeper. Special guests Ron Holloway, include a famed international tenor sax player. This is an event of the season for Americana music followers. This will be a show to say, “I was there when…” Get a sneak peak, meet the guys in person, and pick up a copy of their first CD, Tuesday, November 5 at The Silk Mill where they will perform a short set for CVTV in Concert, airing LIVE for national television. Maddie Sunshine and Leon Rector will open. This film studio experience opens to the public at 7:30p.m. Check out TheFreewayRevival.com, and of course find them on Facebook and all the other social medias. Ashleigh Chevalier is a Blues/Jazz/Rock Musican - Vocalist, Songwriter, Music & Media Journalist and, a mother living in Fredericksburg

Give a Child Something to Think About Books, Games, Amusing Novelties M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684

Startup Weekend the ideas that became reality by christina ferber

The 10 by 10 team after the big win! #SWFXBG — with Elizabeth Hall Colon, Ben Muldrow, Christa Hall Huntley and Joshua Walton Need some living dirt? How about a way to keep your friends in check on those late nights out? Both of those products and more are now accessible thanks to the recent Startup Weekend that was held at Germanna Community College on September 26-28. From the first pitches offered on Friday night to the final pitches given on Sunday evening, the event proved to be an all around success. After twenty-plus pitches in the opener, eight teams were formed around

THE POETRY MAN - BY FRANK FRATOE

Our Week On a Fall noonday parching Cornell St. The first dry leaves jangle the sidewalk as a catbird meows camouflaged in shade and pumpkins glow along the porchsteps. It’s that week again when we first met after your birthday and one year later married in acceptance To vow joy together cut short by death which I must accede. But someone is here walking alongside me underneath maples in the autumn hush and a voice cries out That is not my own near a rockgarden as bluejays fly away. Frank Fratoe lives and writes in the city

the ideas with the most traction, and although they were all working on different products the environment was one of collaboration. “Essentially we were all competing against each other, but it never felt like that. Everyone in the room was supportive, friendly, and excited for you and your idea. It was one of the greatest experiences I have ever had,” says Christa Huntley, team leader for first place team 10 x 10, an app aimed at matching trade shows with vendors. Lights by Paul, a team led by Paul Glancy of Paul’s Bakery fame, produced small durable lit gingerbread men for Christmas and came in second, while Downtown Farm came in third. Though Sarah Perry originally thought of Downtown Farm as a place to bring urban youth and the environment together, she made a huge switch and pitched “Living Soil,” a soil amendment product made locally, as her final product. “We had a Startup Weekend first,” says Christine Goodwin, one of the event’s organizers. “A team sold dirt and made $1500.00 worth of sales doing it. It was really an incredible pivot from the original idea that was pitched.” Other business products showcased during the final pitches came from Rdius, a way to map the stories of your life through geo-journalism, Audio Stream, a portable streaming device, and Start on Foot, an app that marries fitness Art-Y Y also and gaming. Whoopsie and P-A pitched during Sunday’s presentations and proved that your first pitch may not always match the final one. Whoopsie was first pitched by Rachel Seats as an app to obtain sexual consent, and instead changed to an app that offered brainteasers and other tools to keep group members together during a night on the town. “My idea changed several times through the 54 hour sprint, and even though we didn’t win, we scored countless connections and relationships

that continue to develop.” says Seats. Alicia Hurst, team leader of P-ArtY pitched a nonprofit art center as a way to bring the arts to all, but pivoted to a for-profit business of giving art parties. “I learned a lot about transforming ideas into ways to make money, finding the right team, and the importance of social networking,” says Hurst. From learning the importance of identifying and validating customer base, to listening to and following other’s advice and creating a lean business canvas, teams ended up building impressive finished products with many continuing on as viable businesses. “Despite all the false starts and pivots I thought everyone made an amazing effort. I especially liked watching people who hardly knew each other come together, take an idea and flesh it out into an impressive presentation and viable product. It gave me a real sense of what is possible even when resources and time are short,” says Max Lupton, a team member of P-Art-Y. It’s the experience that the weekend provides that keeps people attending these events. “The unexpected successes of the weekend keep us passionate about continuing this in Fredericksburg,” says Goodwin. “We get to be a part of people changing their lives and making a dent in the universe in ways that they had never imagined.” The next Startup Weekend is March 6-8th and will be targeting veterans. Volunteers and sponsors are currently being sought. Anyone interested in participating or sponsoring can email christine@fredxchange.org. Other Startup Weekends are planned for summer and fall 2015. Christina Ferber got the startp bug as an observer at January’s event and got hooked. She can’t wait to get her creative juices flowing again at the next event in March 2015.

online: www.save7lives.org in person: Dept. of Motor Vehicles

Every Child Deserves A Family

Learn about our adoption opportunities in Russia, China and Guatemala

301-587-4400

Cradle of Hope Adoption Center

Front Porch Fredericksburg

Supporting Local Artists Since 1997

SHOP THE BOULEVARD! Lafayette Boulevard…

DOWNTOWN! front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

HollyBurg locals strike oscar gold

The Freeway Revival By Ashleigh Chevalier

On Stage . . .

Gary Olsen gives film lectures to serve examples to the area’s youth that Hollywood dreams can be realized with hard work and incredible luck.

Give a Child Something to Think About Books, Games, Amusing Novelties M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684

Startup Weekend the ideas that became reality by christina ferber

THE POETRY MAN - BY FRANK FRATOE

online: www.save7lives.org in person: Dept. of Motor Vehicles

Every Child Deserves A Family

Learn about our adoption opportunities in Russia, China and Guatemala

301-587-4400

Cradle of Hope Adoption Center

Front Porch Fredericksburg

Supporting Local Artists Since 1997

SHOP THE BOULEVARD! Lafayette Boulevard…

DOWNTOWN! front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Susan Larson

Fredericksburg Sketches

Fredericksburg Today: Local News source operates completely online

A visual Celebration of our community

By Casey Alan Shaw

Photo By Bob Martin

By Ryan Davis

Susan Larson has created Fredericksburg’s first locally owned, locally focused, online news source named Fredericksburg.Today. Her business had been in operation since January of 2014 and strives to provide readers with top stories, community events and forum for readers Larson is not jumping into such an undertaking blindly. In fact, she’s had quite a decorated career beginning with her Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from Trinity College in San Antonio, Texas. Her career in journalism and news media has included operating a camera for the Today Show out of San Antonio, Texas, broadcast reporting for WOAI CBS Newsradio, she worked in public relations for Dublin, Carter & Associates and successfully managed an account with the National Coalition to Reduce Car Crash Injuries that instituted seat belt laws in every state, along with a federal regulation requiring air bags in vehicles, and more recently was a local editor for AOL Patch. Even though Larson has earned national recognition in her career, she still has a heart and affinity for providing a news service for the small town community. “I moved to Fredericksburg and noticed that there wasn’t any locally owned, locally focused online news source and I wanted to change that,” she said. With many readers getting their news updates online and via social media outlets it was an obvious choice to strictly focus on web-based news. According to Larson, 78% of smart phone users now access news online rather than traditional print method. Fredericksburg.Today provides its readership with local news features, column pieces weather and traffic updates, but it goes a step further by highlighting the arts, community events and providing exposure for local businesses. “I want our news platform to offer an online presence for small businesses and non-profits who normally

November 2014

wouldn’t have the resources to do so,” Larson said. Fredericksburg.Today’s founder is not just supporting from afar, but intentionally stays connected with the community itself. Larson attends many of the events highlighted in her publication and feels strongly that she remains united with Fredericksburg. Larson pays special attention to both the community at large and her individual readers. Fredericksburg.Today provides a forum where the audience has a unique impact on online publication because they can suggest news stories that are important to them. “This conversation is important for 1st Amendment rights and free speech, but social media can also be an excellent place for the sharing of ideas,” she said. According to Larson, with the ondemand, constantly changing nature of online media, her challenges (and excitement) comes for staying ahead of the minute by minute curve: which include updating content management systems, staying abreast of social media changes, and being attuned with how the audience is using numerous online platforms. The motivation for such an endeavor is most certainly to make good on the goal of providing an online news outlet for Fredericksburg, and it’s also to expand this dream into a viable business, but at Larson’s journalist roots it involves creating stories that are accurate, fair, honest and committed to excellent standards of quality. For more information or to stay updated on local news features visit: Fredericksburg.Today or contact Susan Larson directly at fredericksburgtoday@gmail.com Ryan Davis currently resides in Fredericksburg, Virginia. He is a graduate of the University of Mary Washington where he majored in English with a focus in creative writing. He has future aspirations of becoming a published author.

Front porch fredericksburg

Welcome to a new visual column celebrating Fredericksburg. It’s an inspiring place for an artist to live. This column is new this month, so I chose to draw the newest spire on Princess Anne Street. Insider’s note: The courthouse was still blocked by construction when I drew

this, so I had to “imagine” a few details at the street level. And I hear the dome may change colors . . . an opportunity for a future drawing! Casey Alan Shaw is a local artist. His original work shows at Art First Gallery.

Elma Adusei

From My Porch

FA senior finds roots in ghana

Downsizing

By Beth Hunsinger year-old Elma cares for her siblings—ages 10, 9, 7, and 4. She approaches each day’s challenges— whether they include preparing breakfast for the children or taking a Calculus exam—with empathy and a wide smile. Elma proudly traces many of her personality traits to her Ghanaian heritage. She spent a month this summer rediscovering her roots during a trip to Ghana with parents Vida and Nana Adusei-P Poku and siblings The trip served as the basis for her Exhibit, an independent study required of all FA students. Elma’s parents ensure that she stays connected to her culture, in Elma Adusei visits the Ghanaian capital of Accra part by continuing to speak their with siblings Michael, Raphael, Divine and Gabriel native language of Akan-Twi at home. The trip to Ghana further Elma Adusei was a book-loving 9reinforced Elma’s identity as a Ghanaian. year-old when her family moved from their “I realized I had a lot to learn about native Ghana to the Fredericksburg area. She did not speak English when myself and where I come from,” she reflected. she entered fourth grade at Falmouth “Going back to Ghana was a really humbling Elementary School but became fluent experience. It definitely made me appreciate after a year of ESL instruction and what I have in America, but I also really love immersion in American culture. When she where I come from.” Elma attributes her innate work reached Drew Middle School, Elma was selected for the honors program and ethic—observed by peers, teachers, and coaches on a daily basis at FA—to her West became one of its top students. The oldest of five children, Elma African roots. During the summer trip, is now a senior at Fredericksburg she observed the diligence and precision Academy, the school she has attended with which Ghanaian people approach since seventh grade.The school has been tasks large and small. In Ghana, Elma soaked up the like a second home. A three-sport athlete, co-captain strong sense of community and belonging of the Varsity Tennis team, Student in her grandmother’s village, where her Ambassador, Chorus member, musical cast family stayed. “It definitely felt like member, and literary magazine co-editor, coming home,” she said. A self-described “book nerd,” Elma is a straight-A student with a heavy course load that includes three Advanced Elma plans to study English and Placement (AP) classes. She received FA’s international relations at a four-year Morin Talented Student Merit Scholarship college next year. “I’m looking forward to making for the 2014-2015 school year and is the my family proud,” she said. school’s 2014 nominee for the University of Virginia’s Jefferson Scholarship. Her responsibilities do not end with those of “student,” however. While her parents work on the weekends, 17-

Beth Hunsinger is Director of Communications and Marketing at Fredericksburg Academy. A graduate of Mary Washington College, she has lived in the Fredericksburg area since 1997.

By Jo Loving

We.are.downsizing. Yes, you heard it here. My husband and I have decided to take the plunge to the next stage in life by downsizing from our current home to what was once our weekend getaway cottage. I am no stranger to downsizing, having moved from a nearly 3000 square foot home to a 300 square foot cottage a few years ago, but I was alone at the time. When I married my husband, we moved into a home of about 1800 square feet. Funny, how you can spread out in a few short years. We are not clutter fanatics, but our home is furnished comfortably, and has room for guests. The cottage is a 750square-foot, one-bedroom affair, with a small front and back porch. I look at this as an experiment. My husband is a tall man who commands a lot of space. It is his idea to downsize. While I have some concern about this step that largely stems from being in a small space, in a very small town, most of the trepidation arises from sharing said small space with my big guy. We both enjoy being in the yard or garden, picnics, and walks. This will be no problem. The problem is noise. He likes to watch sports on TV in his spare time. I’m talking about every sport known to man. You name it – baseball, football, basketball, golf, tennis, pig racing, dart tournaments, bowling tournaments – he will watch it. When inside the house, I enjoy quieter pursuits, such as cooking, writing, reading, watching PBS or crime

dramas, watching the occasional baseball game, or just doing nothing at all. In our current home, we have ample space for joint or separate pursuits. It will be interesting to see how this works in the cottage. On the flip side, this could be a really good thing. This move means less home maintenance and yard work, which will leave more time for each other. We can become more a part of our cottage community. We may finally be able to make more time for gardening, fishing, kayaking and canoeing in our little river village. These are good things, and although I have truly been fighting the idea of this downsizing for a few months, I think we can give it a shot. We might like it. We may find that it frees us up to do more things we want to do, without worrying about taking care of two places. There is another good thing about this move. For the five years we have owned the cottage, we have slowly made different improvements. This move has fast-forwarded a few of the items on our list. We are currently remodeling the kitchen. We shored up the structure. New doors are in the works. I am hoping that it will also advance another of our plans – for a beautiful and inviting wrap-around porch, from which I will write this column. Stay tuned…

Jo Loving is currently surrounded by packing boxes and is finally looking forward to moving. She hopes to be writing her next column from the porch of the cottage.

Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service “Your pet becomes my pet while in my care, and I care a lot!” - Lexi (540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “lexi grogan’s pet sitting service” Prices: Dogs - $15 per canine per visit Cats - $12 per feline per visit

Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!

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

540/371-9890 front porch fredericksburg

November 2014

Susan Larson

Fredericksburg Sketches

Fredericksburg Today: Local News source operates completely online

A visual Celebration of our community

By Casey Alan Shaw

Photo By Bob Martin

By Ryan Davis

November 2014

Front porch fredericksburg

Elma Adusei

From My Porch

FA senior finds roots in ghana

Downsizing

Beth Hunsinger is Director of Communications and Marketing at Fredericksburg Academy. A graduate of Mary Washington College, she has lived in the Fredericksburg area since 1997.

By Jo Loving

Jo Loving is currently surrounded by packing boxes and is finally looking forward to moving. She hopes to be writing her next column from the porch of the cottage.

Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!

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

540/371-9890 front porch fredericksburg

November 2014