Front Porch Fredericksburg - October 2016 by Virginia Grogan

contents

closeups 9

Victoria Mccollum & Cathy Davis ... Doulas of FXBG Neal Reed ...potter for life nina angelini fredericksburg vision

porch talk .3

Finding the it!...Alex Kelly-Maartens

on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages

On the trails:: FAMPO

Everything Green: It’s that time again

for the love of artistic endeavor: North Windsor Artist Group

vino: bogle phantom

season’s bounty: ein kleines bier, bitte

Cooking with Kyle...ratatouille sPIRITS: limited edition bourbon

orofino...buon appetito

16-17

Calendar of events

history’s stories.: daughter of the confederacy our heritage: rapid ann river

downtown buzz:october events

companions: ‘starting over

emancipated patients: education & health mind your mind: hush your mouth

Senior Care: let’s get physical

another day: promoting suicide prevention Renew: bad habits

art in the burg

mYSTERY hOUSE

FXBG music: karen jonas New Album release

poetryman: fall dangler

fredericksburg sketches

from my porch fxbgers: ethel hellman

...And more! 8

Cory White

full circle in color

steve jarrell:..a son of the beach comes home

preston thayer opens este lecture series

15 Cover: “”Elana & Her Uke” by David Kennedy

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

Finding The “IT” Pitaiyo owner alex kelly-maartens By Emily Hollingsworth Pitaiyo, located at 1006 Caroline St., has the warm and welcoming interior of a home living room. A large couch sits against the wall. A table, covered with a black cloth, holds a vase with fresh flowers. Above the couch, nearly covering the wall, a large piece of artwork reads: “You are what you think.” The studio is in the back. One room contains a spacious area for classes, another room specifically for a new Pilates Reformer training program. The studio, the homey interior, the boutique of clothes ranging from earthy to edgy: they make up only a part Maartens world. of Pitayo and Kelly-M Kelly-Maartens was born and raised in Warrenton. She remembered watching on the sidelines as her parents played tennis. “I decided I was tired of being on the sidelines and picked up a tennis racquet,” Kelly-Maartens said. This experience, coupled with living on a farm, taught her to take action. “I’m very hands on,” KellyMaartens said. “I thank my parents. They taught me so much about that. You have to do to survive.”

Kelly-Maartens carried her love of movement through high school and college playing tennis, getting a degree in Exercise Science from the University of Radford. Following graduation, KellyMaartens worked in the private fitness industry for six years before receiving a job in the corporate fitness industry at American Family Fitness at the Spotsylvania/Massaponax location. Being trained in Pilates and yoga post-grad, and taking a kung fu course in college similar to tai chi, Kelly-Maartens looked to create a training that combined elements of all three exercises. The result was Pitaiyo, which she launched in 2006. Pitaiyo, the Pi standing for Pilates, the Tai standing for tai chi, and the Yo standing for yoga, is a variety of exercises that combine methods from all three. The method became one of the most popular classes offered at American Family Fitness, and training classes have been hosted around the country, and across the world. Kelly-Maartens describes Pitaiyo as an international method, in addition to

a local practice created in Virginia. KellyMaartens opened the store and studio in downtown Fredericksburg in 2013. “Pitaiyo is all that I do,” KellyMaartens said about her own personal exercise routine. “I am the strongest, leanest, and fittest I have ever been.” Pitaiyo is most rewarding for Kelly-Maartens when a client tells her because of the exercise regiment they no longer have neck or back pain. Kelly-Maartens describes herself as a leader, and says enabling people to achieve past what they thought is also rewarding. “I take great pride in getting people through what they did not think they could do,” Kelly Maartens said. One of the core themes of Pitaiyo is the “it,” according to Kelly-Maartens. The exercise combines physical and mental wellness, and the “it” represents all of the actions and reactions that contribute to who you are or who you want to be, the “orbit.” Kelly-Maartens said the demographic of people who take classes in the Pitaiyo store range from children, high school students to women in their 70s.

In addition to having Pitaiyo be accessible, Kelly-Maartens also does not want to limit using Pitaiyo to only the store. Kelly-Maartens has hosted classes near the Rappahannock River and Snead Farm. On Oct. 8 at 9 a.m., Pitaiyo will partner with C&T Produce for a pumpkin workout, where families can choose their own pumpkins, and then do a workout with them afterward. She also teaches yoga and empowerment for kids and teenagers at Like the three combining exercises in Pitaiyo, Kelly-Maartens put peoples’ activities into three different components: work, home and play. Both within a welcoming store and out into the community, Kelly-Maartens creates a space where people can connect, both with others and themselves, and use physical and mental wellness techniques to achieve everything they can. “I want people to play here,” Kelly-Maartens said.

front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

contents

closeups 9

Victoria Mccollum & Cathy Davis ... Doulas of FXBG Neal Reed ...potter for life nina angelini fredericksburg vision

porch talk .3

Finding the it!...Alex Kelly-Maartens

on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages

On the trails:: FAMPO

Everything Green: It’s that time again

for the love of artistic endeavor: North Windsor Artist Group

vino: bogle phantom

season’s bounty: ein kleines bier, bitte

Cooking with Kyle...ratatouille sPIRITS: limited edition bourbon

orofino...buon appetito

16-17

Calendar of events

history’s stories.: daughter of the confederacy our heritage: rapid ann river

downtown buzz:october events

companions: ‘starting over

emancipated patients: education & health mind your mind: hush your mouth

Senior Care: let’s get physical

another day: promoting suicide prevention Renew: bad habits

art in the burg

mYSTERY hOUSE

FXBG music: karen jonas New Album release

poetryman: fall dangler

fredericksburg sketches

from my porch fxbgers: ethel hellman

...And more! 8

Cory White

full circle in color

steve jarrell:..a son of the beach comes home

preston thayer opens este lecture series

15 Cover: “”Elana & Her Uke” by David Kennedy

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Meg Sneed

ON THE PORCH Guest Porch Editorial

Contributing Writers & Artists Ashley Bevlacqua Aanglin A.E.Bayne Kevin Brown Collette Caprara Barbara Deal Christina Ferber Frank Fratoe Joan M. Geisler Ann Glave Alexis Grogan Sue Henderson Ralph “Tuffy”Hicks Emily Hollingsworth Anna-Katya Hvizdos deLorenzo Karl Karch David C. Kennedy Jo Loving Vanessa Moncure Patrick Neustatter M.L. Powers Amy Preske Scott Richards Casey Alan Shaw Suzanne Scherr Wendy Schmitz Meg Sneed Georgia Strentz James Kyle Synder Christine Thompson Dawn Whitmore Kathryn Willis

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 2016 Olde Towne Publishing Co. All rights reserved.

October 2016

fampo

welcoming avenues

By Kevin Brown

BY Meg Sneed I moved to Fredericksburg just over four years ago, when my husband was fresh out of a fellowship and finally free to practice medicine where and how he wanted to. He chose Fredericksburg for its proximity to his hometown of Manassas, its robust culture, and its ability to straddle the line between the suburbs of northern Virginia and the wilds of Spotsylvania. I chose it for its proximity to him and Krispy Kreme.

FAMPO Team (LtoR): Lloyd Robinson, Marti Donley, Paul Agnello, Nick Quint, Daniel Reese

(What can I say? I’ve always been a foodie at heart) We moved here with our two children, ages 1 and 2 at the time, into a brand new city, a new-to-us home, and a brand new medical practice of our very own. I knew exactly one person in town and though my childhood as a military brat had well prepared me for constant moves, I felt adrift for the first time as an adult. If you’ve ever gone through the process of putting down roots in a new place, you know it can be alienating at first. I hardly knew how to get to the Giant around the corner, let alone Downtown or beyond. Fortunately, starting your own business in a town as entrepreneurial friendly as Fredericksburg has proven to be, opens up a wide variety of welcoming avenues. It started off small, a few events with the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce. And then a few more with the Holistic Healers Organization of Fredericksburg. A few playdates through groups on Meetup.com. Storytime at England Run Library. Bit by bit, often without even realizing it, I started to build a community. Strangers became family friends, and Fredericksburg began to feel like home. I was introduce to Wegman’s (THAT was a mind blowing hour!), and

messages Virginia & Lexi: Thanks again for your support of Art Attack! We appreciate all you do for the community. Best, Gabe Pons

Front Porch: First time reader of the Front Porch. Saw it this morning while having

On the Trails

Front porch fredericksburg

then stumbled upon the Downtown Farmer’s Market. After that it was Foode and my hair dresser. Then, thanks to the holistic nature of my husband’s practice, we fell in with the farming community as well. And my horizons have expanded exponentially ever since! Grassfed beef, organic local produce, raw honey, goat cheese, pasture raised chickens and eggs, pastured pork – if I thought Wegman’s was awe-inspiring when I first encountered it, it has nothing on the local food offerings of Fredericksburg, a happenstance for which I will be eternally grateful due to its huge impact on not just our taste buds, but our health as well. Fredericksburg’s food is the reason my son no longer has sensory issues, my husband’s blood pressure and cholesterol have stabilized, and I’ve been able to stop taking the prescription medications I’d been on since the age of 3 for asthma and allergies. It’s opened up my children to experiencing new foods with gusto (they eat tongue!), and opened our lives up to some of the most amazing, industrious, and generous people I have ever known. breakfast at Mason Dixon Cafe, absolutely love it! Saw the mystery house section and knew it immediately! I am so happy to see it coming to life once again. Great Read! Thanks Valerie Jackson Virginia & Amy Thanks so much for the article about me in September’s Front Porch (Frak Fratoe, The Poeteyman). I appreciate... Best Always, Frank Fratoe

As a life-long wanderer, it has always been my secret ambition to raise a family in one place. To have children who can answer, without hesitation, where their hometown is. To walk through a community and actually know some of the people I pass by. To have a network of friends we can rely upon in good times and in hard. To have a place from which we can explore the world, knowing all the while that we will always have a home to come back to. I sit here on my own front porch (it seems appropriate), I can just begin to see the outlines of my children’s futures (three of them now!) as they play with their neighbors in our front yard. Futures full of friends, family, and the Fredericksburg community you too can explore from cover to cover in this month’s Front Porch. Meg Sneed is the practice manager at Old Dominion Osteopathic Medicine

Are you interested in expanding our bicycle and pedestrian trails network throughout the region and beyond, establishing bicycle sharing programs, or the development of area trail maps? If you find these and other trail planning issues to be of interest and want to voice your opinion, you should be aware of the Fredericksburg Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (FAMPO). FAMPO’s Nicholas Quint, who became interested in urban and regional planning issues after Hurricane Katrina hit while he was attending Louisiana State University, provided the input for this article. Q. Can you explain the relationship

between FAMPO and the George Washington Regional Commission (GWRC)? Established in 1992, FAMPO is a federally-mandated and funded organization that works with local officials, public transportation providers, the Virginia Department of Transportation and other State agencies to ensure that local and regional transportation priorities are coordinated and funded. Although FAMPO is an independent body, its staff is provided by the GWRC, a state-designated Planning District Commission that encourages and facilitates cooperation between the City of Fredericksburg and surrounding counties on regional challenges. The combined GWRC/FAMPO office is located at 406 Princess Anne Street, across the street from the Fredericksburg train station. Q. What does FAMPO do related to trails? FAMPO is heavily involved in planning for and funding our region’s bicycle and pedestrian trails. Our 20-year Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) includes a Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan to develop a regional network of on and offroad bicycle and pedestrian accommodations that will connect residential areas around the region to commercial and employment centers, parks and recreational facilities, government and other community facilities, as well as historic and cultural

attractions. In recent history, we provided a feasibility study and design guidelines document for the Virginia Central Railway (VCR) Trail in Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County, and we assisted in the designation of the East Coast Greenway (an ambitious effort to establish a 3,000-mile trail from Maine to Florida) through our region. Currently, we are funding a study (with expected July 2017 completion) of Fredericksburg bike share feasibility/bicycle infrastructure improvements. At this time, we are also assisting in the establishment of our region’s portion of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, a 730-mile network of trails for hiking, bicycling, paddling, and horseback riding that extends from the mouth of the Potomac River to Pittsburgh. Finally, we are working on publishing an all-encompassing (multi-use trails, natural surface paths, bike lanes) trails map for our region which will help bring more awareness to our area trails and increase their use. Q. How does FAMPO interact with the public, what is the process for public concerns to be expressed and considered? We frequently interact with the public by publishing public notices in the regional and military newspapers, engaging in social media, working with our Citizens Transportation Advisory Group, or by simply talking to someone we just met. Our goal is to ensure that the ideas, concerns and issues of everyone with a stake in transportation decisions are identified and addressed in the development of the policies, programs, and projects being proposed in their communities. We want to reach out to everyone. Have a question/suggestion? Send us a note via our website or in the mail or just give us a call. FAMPO 406 Princess Anne Street 22401 540-3732890 fampo.gwregion.org.

Publisher’s Note Did you notice our new look ? The new Masthead was created by David C. Kennedy. Let us know what you think At: frntprch@aol.com/masthead

front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Meg Sneed

ON THE PORCH Guest Porch Editorial

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

October 2016

fampo

welcoming avenues

By Kevin Brown

FAMPO Team (LtoR): Lloyd Robinson, Marti Donley, Paul Agnello, Nick Quint, Daniel Reese

messages Virginia & Lexi: Thanks again for your support of Art Attack! We appreciate all you do for the community. Best, Gabe Pons

Front Porch: First time reader of the Front Porch. Saw it this morning while having

On the Trails

Front porch fredericksburg

Publisher’s Note Did you notice our new look ? The new Masthead was created by David C. Kennedy. Let us know what you think At: frntprch@aol.com/masthead

front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Whiskey & Wood

Everything Green

woodworker’s Artisan Festival @ A. Smith Bowman Distillery

It’s That Time Again By Anna-Katya Hvizdos de Lorenzo

By A.E.Bayne

A Large Selection Available

Tim Eggers has spent the past 20 years as a woodworker and the past ten as a wood artisan. He and fellow wood workers started the Fredericksburg Area Woodworker’s Guild, a group dedicated to promoting local craftsmanship and supply for woodwork and wood artistry. From this collaboration, The Workshop was born. The Workshop will open this fall offering memberships and classes to area woodworkers and people interested in learning more about wood craft. David Keene, Bill Scheff, and Rance Rupp join Eggers in providing a dedicated workspace with opportunities for learning and collaboration, as well as a source for equipment, premium exotic and domestic lumber, and personal studio space. Eggers says, “The best way to learn things is to associate with people who have the knowledge or skills and are willing to share them. The Workshop will evolve into a center for excellence in handcrafted artisanship, beginning with wood work initially, and eventually expanding into glass, metal and other mediums. In addition to offering space for experienced wood artisans, it will be a great environment for people who want to experience woodworking but don’t know where to start.” The guild is hosting the first Whiskey and Wood Artisan Festival this month with the help of the folks at A. Smith Bowman Distillery. Eggers says woodwork will be featured, but the festival will also highlight a few glass artists, potters, and some metal artists and blacksmiths. He notes, “The festival will expose the community to the fact that there are a large number of very fine wood craft artisans in this community, including fine furniture makers. We even have a violin maker here in town, Bill Mason. " We are hoping that the festival will be a launching pad for community awareness that fine woodworking is happening and available right here in Fredericksburg".

October 2016

Michelle Begin, Bowman Distillery’s Event Associate, adds, “We are extremely excited about the Whiskey and Wood Festival; it’s the first time we’ve ever had anything like this here. When they approached us about it, we just saw it as a win-win situation. It’s a great opportunity for local wood working artisans to showcase their products and abilities, as well as great promotion for the distillery.” Begin says that during the event the distillery will be running business as normal. Just as they do Monday through Saturday every week, the distillery will offer tours and conduct tastings. She adds, “Anyone who comes in can take a tour, get samples and purchase products, but they also get the added benefit of getting to see the local artisans here as well.” Eggers thinks that Fredericksburg is supportive of its arts community, but he says events like the Whiskey and Wood Artisan Festival help to pull the community together. He says, “There’s a sign coming into town that reads “Welcome to Historic Fredericksburg.” There needs to be one “Welcome to Artistic that says Fredericksburg.” Fredericksburg is an unknown art commodity in the region, and that’s mainly because it’s known primarily for its history and a bit for its painting and pottery, but I think there are avenues for a variety of art. Exposing the community to other mediums is what’s going to change that perception.” Join Eggers and the rest of the Fredericksburg Area Woodworkers Guild at A. Smith Bowman Distillery on Friday, October 21, 2016, where they will hold a preview reception at 5:00 p.m. and the event will open to the public at 6:00 p.m. The festival continues on Saturday, October 22nd from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is free to the public all day. Call (540) 373-4555 for directions or information. A.E. Bayne is a writer, artist, & educator

Front porch fredericksburg

200 William Street Downtown ,Fredericksburg 540.373.4421 Mon-Sat: 9-5:30 CrownJewelersFredericksburg.com

THE

FREDERICKSBURG LAMP Only Available At

The Copper Shop 371-4455 1707R Princess Anne

Behind Silk Mill thefredericksburglamp.com

It’s that time again. What time is that you may ask? That time. That inestimable time when the days grow shorter, the turning colors more brilliant and there is a chill in the air. It is that special fall time in Virginia again, replete with jugs of cloudy apple cider and a brilliant display of mother nature at every turn. Not to mention the very first smell of a wood fire for the season, with visions of ripening pumpkins reflecting the moonlight in the patch. Draw that old, faithful sweater close to “keep the nip in the air off”, it’s officially Fall! Downtown Greens will celebrate this wonderful time of year with our very Tales by the Campfire for own event: Tall-T Families, on October 29, at 7pm replete with Fredericksburg's folklores by the campfire, some of which might even be a little spooky! Come join the us by the crackling fire and by the light of the full, silvery ”Hunter’s Moon" as we tell tall tales to the backdrop of nature sounds like crickets, frogs and other creatures of the night. In regards to the silvery moon, did you know that traditionally, native tribes spent the month of October preparing for the coming winter which included hunting and preserving meats for use as food. This led to October’s full moon being called the Hunter’s Moon and sometimes Blood Moon or Sanguine Moon. Allow me to return to the subject of snacks, a most important subject. What would a campfire be without S’mores? We are looking forward to our very own Herbal Arts Collective group’s offering of homemade marshmallows made from real marshmallow root (the olde-fashioned way) to add to your campfire s’mores. Marshmallow. Althaea officinalis. A gentle plant indeed, the first “marshmallows” were actually medicinal throat lozenges made of this plant’s mucilaginous root rolled in other herbs and ingested for many years before they became the “sweet treat” that we

recognize now. Below find a herbal recipe from food.com (http://fd.cm/2d0PdC1) to make your own all-natural marshmallows: Original Marshmallows 4 tablespoons diced marshmallow root* 28 tablespoons refined sugar 20 tablespoons gum tragacanth (or gum arabic- a natural product which can be bought online) 2 cups water (Water of orange flowers for aroma or instead of plain water) 1 -2 egg whites, well beaten Make sure the mallow roots aren’t moldy or too woody. Marshmallow gives off almost twice its own weight of mucilaginous gel when placed in water. Make a tea of marshmallow roots by simmering in a pint of water for twenty to thirty minutes. Add additional water if it simmers down. Strain out the roots.

Heat the gum and marshmallow decoction (water) in a double boiler until they are dissolved together. Strain with pressure. Stir in the sugar as quickly as possible. When dissolved, add the well beaten egg whites, stirring constantly, but take off the fire and continue to stir. Lay out on a flat surface. Let cool, and cut into smaller pieces. We recommend www.mountainroseherbs.com for bulk organic Althanea officinalis root

Anna-Katya Hvizdos de Lorenzo is an Herbalist and Horticultural Director at Downtown Greens where she enjoys overseeing the Herbal Arts Collective, a free monthly group that seeks to teach and empower people about the vital plant medicine around us.

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

601 LAFAYETTE BLVD

roxburyfarmgarden.com MAIN: (540) 373-9124 NURSERY: (540) 371-8802 SUZY STONE Mobile:540.847.0630 Office: 540-898-2900 suzystone22@gmail.com C21redwood.com

We Have All Your Gardening Needs Since 1929 Come Shop With Us! front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Whiskey & Wood

Everything Green

woodworker’s Artisan Festival @ A. Smith Bowman Distillery

It’s That Time Again By Anna-Katya Hvizdos de Lorenzo

By A.E.Bayne

A Large Selection Available

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

200 William Street Downtown ,Fredericksburg 540.373.4421 Mon-Sat: 9-5:30 CrownJewelersFredericksburg.com

THE

FREDERICKSBURG LAMP Only Available At

The Copper Shop 371-4455 1707R Princess Anne

Behind Silk Mill thefredericksburglamp.com

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

601 LAFAYETTE BLVD

roxburyfarmgarden.com MAIN: (540) 373-9124 NURSERY: (540) 371-8802 SUZY STONE Mobile:540.847.0630 Office: 540-898-2900 suzystone22@gmail.com C21redwood.com

We Have All Your Gardening Needs Since 1929 Come Shop With Us! front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Full Circle in Color

Bats, Rats & Witch’s Flats It’s Halloween at

374-0443 www.shopwhittingham.com 1021 Caroline Street

meet via colori’s cory white By sue henderson Since 2010, Cory White and Boy Scout Troop 165 have been a part of Via Colori Fredericksburg. He’s manned barricades, provided overnight security, emptied trash cans, hauled tables and chairs, and spent the weekend kneeling with other artists and created colorful street paintings. On October 8 and 9 he’ll come full circle and take his place as the Director of the Festival. Originally Troop 165 was contracted to provide an overnight presence to keep an eye on the colorful artworks and assist with manning the barricades. If you’ve been to Via Colori, you might have seen their tents discreetly in the background while the scouts cheerfully greeted the artists and visitors at entry points along the way. They have some fun stories about crazy people wandering through in the night and would happily relay them to the organizers as they arrived on Sunday morning. There was the inebriated couple who spent too long oohing and aahing over one piece or another and wouldn’t move along. There were artists who came

Sne e ad Farm Fall Fe e stival

Vicki & Cory White at Via Colori, 2015 back in the middle of the night to get a head start in the cool of dawn. There was the year it started to rain unexpectedly and the troop rushed around covering all the art with their tarps to protect it. “We wouldn’t want to say we’ve seen it all but we sure have seen more than most!” Cory says with a smile.

open daily Pick Your Own Pumpkin Patch Out of My Gourd Maze

Swing in Hay Barn

Hay Rides

Llamas, Horses & Sheep B a r ny a r d A n i m a l s

The Well at Snead's Farm Open Weekends 10am -5 5pm Serving Locally Sourced Food By the Sunken Well Chefs

sneadsfarm.com/fallfest 8

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

540/371-9 9328

2011 Signature Via Colori Artist Mirinda Reynolds “It’s different being on this side of the table,” he added. “We thought we knew most of the logistics and, while we did, we didn’t realize how far in advance all the moving pieces get put together.” He credits strong support of a team of Scouts and parents who have also been there over the years. “We have over 90 artists signed up to participate this year so we know it’s going to be a good one.” Signature Artist Tricia Atkinson of Figure 8 Ink Studios in Spotsylvania will create a large piece in the center of the festival at the junction of Charlotte and Sophia Streets over the weekend while Featured Artist Rachel Ratcliff will do the

same at the junction of Charlotte and Caroline Streets. “We’re keeping that element of having our Signature and Featured artists in key locations and filling in with other professional and adult artists down Charlotte Street.” New this year will be a separate area for participating kids and a distinctly set-aside Via Bambini for kids and families that visit the event. “We’ve always had a Via Bambini area but it wasn’t on the street and the kids have been asking for that. So this year we’ll have a special area just for them.” As always, the key to the festival will be watching art come alive. “It’s always been about the creative process with nothing left at the end of the weekend.” This writer’s favorite moment is the congratulatory gathering of the artists at the end of the weekend just before letting the traffic drive across and watching the colorful dust flow. Maybe we’ll see you there. What: Via Colori Fredericksburg When: Oct. 8 & 9 Where: Charlotte between Sophia and Caroline

Sue Henderson is a freelance photographer and writer and the past Director of Via Colori Fredericksburg. You can see more of her work at www.focusbyhenderson.com

Thorough Care Doulas of Fredericksburg by emily hollingsworth

Aside from the clients who call them, one of the most frequent questions Victoria McCollum and Cathy Davis get is “what is a doula?” Doulas, rhyming with “moolahs,” are trained to support expectant and birthing mothers during and following giving birth. Doulas of Fredericksburg, run by McCollum and Davis, provides care for mothers, newborns and families, ranging in locations from Arlington to Richmond. Business has tripled since last year, according to Davis and McCollum. They also operate the Facebook group “Fredericksburg Doula Exchange,” which has 35 members, and also offer placenta encapsulations. It is not abnormal for families to hire doulas during pregnancy, birth and after the birth. Davis and McCollum said their doulas can stay with families up to 18 months afterward. “We’re more than nannies or babysitters,” McCollum said. “We can help support, we can help inform, and be physical and moral support of the birthing portion or afterward.” Their goal with staying with families after the birth is to allow the family to bond without the additional stress of caring for an infant. Doulas can stay overnight or during the day, and support the family, particularly the mother, in any way needed. “Absolutely,” McCollum said about doulas staying overnight. “Who doesn’t need an extra night of sleep?” McCollum said she and other doulas are also trained to watch for changes in mothers’ behavior. A normal hormone crash can take place two weeks after birth, according to Davis. Though not trained to diagnose mothers with post-partum issues, they can encourage the mother or other family members to seek help if hormonal issues are persistent. “Every moms’ needs are different,” Davis said. “Some need

company, encouragement, even a three-mile run.” McCollum and Davis operated separately as doulas for about 12 years collectively until they realized they could operate a more solid business working together than separately. While establishing Doulas of Fredericksburg has created a more secure business, Davis noted that the industry has issues that needed to improve. One was the high burnout rates for doulas. To combat this, Davis and McCollum now assign two doulas with one family instead of one, which allows one doula to be present with a family when the other doula may need a break or have family issues of their own. “You’re hiring the whole industry,” McCollum said. “We rely on each other.” McCollum also noted that doulas can be exchanged if a doula does not meet the family’s needs. One of McCollum and Davis’ primary goals is to preserve what doulas can provide for families, and prevent it from becoming a lost art. “Generations of doulas were disappearing,” McCollum said. “We wanted to make sure in 10, 20 years from now they would be sharing information with one another… We want to make sure doulas can do what they love.” McCollum and Davis also want families to know that doulas often work on a judgment-free basis, contrary to stereotypes, and support expectant mother in the method of birth they feel most comfortable with. McCollum and Davis work to bring awareness of Doulas of Fredericksburg to the area, believing that better support for families after birth can create a healthier family and a better community. “At the end of the day we need people to know that this service is here,” Victoria (?) said. “So at two weeks after [birthing] and you’re desperate and exhausted, there is someone here for you.” To learn more about Doulas of Fredericksburg www.doulasoffredericksburg.com and facebook Emily Hollingsworth is a recent graduate of the University of Mary Washington and profiles artists, photographers and members of the Fredericksburg community.

Helping You Heal Naturally

The Way Your Body Was Meant To Dr. Jason Sneed, D.O. 540-322-5040 www.odomedicine.com Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One

Jewell Wolterman 1320 Central Park Blvd, Ste 200, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 540-907-0574 www.elitetitleva.com jwolterman@elitetitleva.com front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Full Circle in Color

Bats, Rats & Witch’s Flats It’s Halloween at

374-0443 www.shopwhittingham.com 1021 Caroline Street

Sne e ad Farm Fall Fe e stival

open daily Pick Your Own Pumpkin Patch Out of My Gourd Maze

Swing in Hay Barn

Hay Rides

Llamas, Horses & Sheep B a r ny a r d A n i m a l s

The Well at Snead's Farm Open Weekends 10am -5 5pm Serving Locally Sourced Food By the Sunken Well Chefs

sneadsfarm.com/fallfest 8

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

540/371-9 9328

Sue Henderson is a freelance photographer and writer and the past Director of Via Colori Fredericksburg. You can see more of her work at www.focusbyhenderson.com

Thorough Care Doulas of Fredericksburg by emily hollingsworth

Helping You Heal Naturally

The Way Your Body Was Meant To Dr. Jason Sneed, D.O. 540-322-5040 www.odomedicine.com Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One

Jewell Wolterman 1320 Central Park Blvd, Ste 200, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 540-907-0574 www.elitetitleva.com jwolterman@elitetitleva.com front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

For the Love of Artistic Endeavor

Neal Reed

The North windsor artist group

potter for life

By dawn whitmore

By Kathyrn Willis

The many fans of Neal Reed, our wonderful potter, know that his personal style is low key. Self-effacing. Quiet. Even sweet. Witness: Neal’s cameo photo on his Facebook page. He’s chosen artwork created by Baxter, his young son, (presumably rendered in Crayola), as his signature shot. It’s a portrait of Dad, smiling, affable, hair a bit unruly. He’s holding a pot, hands visible, brown from the tint of his medium. The hands, the smile, the eyes as the salient features that define this good man of talents. But wait. Look at the pottery that he creates. Bold patterns, aggressive digging into layers of clay, zig zags, loops. Dancing chickens, brier-pricked vines, calamari on the currents, and creatures of the deep.

What’s up? “My pottery is, I guess, a little bit bold…not too subtle. It wouldn’t be me,” he says. And he adds, “I like things with teeth.” Well. How to reconcile this dichotomy? It’s a harmony of elements. Ancient techniques and motifs, channeled through the sense of a contemporary lifestyle that, perhaps unwittingly, longs to connect to that which came before. That which speaks to essentials of everyday use—plates, mugs, pitchers, vases. Sturdy ware, thick and muscular, high-fired to resist the knocks of daily application. Yet the sturdy, visceral, handfriendly things that emerge from the connection between inspiration and a life of looking are informed by Reed’s sense of whimsy, of joy, of delight in the moment. From his works, one senses that, despite acrimony, despite horrors, despite anxieties both personal and global, there is reason to be happy. There are deep sea monsters, rendered in clay, fired in multi-layered glazes that reflect sunlight filtered through fathoms. They carry both the message that they are formidable, and yet they have their own private sense of play. Goofy eyes, irregular teeth, misinformed proportions, and solid of body. Potentially deadly, but suggesting that, after all, maybe not. By his own confession, Neal looks to potters of previous eras. “I look a lot at ancient potters, their designs—octopi, fish, vines and leaves,” he reflects. Beyond those “squishy things” of rhythm and wave which respond to his siren song of undulating design, there is the balancing

firmness of geometry, solidly rooted in ancient graphic pattern. Greek key, stabilizing line, repetitive shapes of leaves—a visual reassurance of continuity and permanence. Ah, the long, long past. Ah, the brief, brief moment. Ah, Neal Reed as the intersection. A contemporary aesthetic of reductive abstraction directs his bold, hard-lined incisions. They are revealed through layers of colored glaze, carefully derived from nuanced decision. “I think color is hard to get. Some colors go well and some don’t. Nothing too jarry—colors that complement each other” –that is the intuitive aesthetic that guides his judgment. He blends each one by himself. Decades have been invested to the selection of color, and have resulted in a very limited vocabulary of the chosen: a deep blue, a light blue, an olive green, a light gray, and the ubiquitous black slip. More recent additions that passed the discriminating judgment: an oatmeal tan and a light mustard. Neal’s not one to proclaim or to pontificate, but this is telling: “I haven’t come up with a brown that I like.” Past is present, present is past, but in the end, there is only the moment. And that, in sum, is the enduring appeal of Neal’s contemporary stuff. He never polishes the finish of his wares to a perfected smoothness. “I don’t want it to be too precise” …the potter’s thumb. He allows the remnants of his sgraffito technique to reveal the origins of the process, by which he scrapes through layers of overlaid pigment to define the

underlying pattern. The minute chinks of the original surface overlay are allowed to endure. They are the subtle evidence of his process, hard-fired for forever. They reveal the moment that brought the piece to light, by hand, in its moment. And maybe, unconsciously, he allows to remain, by this signature “roughness,” the layering of the connectedness of what he senses with the centuries of potters who have come before. “I like the idea of it being functional, nice to look at. But also that there is perhaps more value to its use,” he adds, almost as an aside. When we heft a Neal Reed coffee mug, we sense that we read, on a universal cultural level, that our essential connectedness transcends historical reference, geographical location, and language. The storyline is ubiquitous and everlasting. It’s visual, concrete, and timeless. It’s down to essentials. And, after all and everything, there is joy, accessible by all, at every moment, that is ours to experience. NOTE: Neal Reed is the inaugural artist to participate in the Artist Exchange Program through the Fredericksburg-Este Association to travel to Este, Italy. The exchange trip will pair Neal Reed with Este’s master potter, Alfredo Dal Santo, for a two-week collaboration from late September through early October 2016. The Artist Exchange Program is a joint endeavor of the Fredericksburg-Este Association and LibertyTown Arts Studio.

Fredericksburg has a rich line of history…the Revolutionary War, Civil War and Arts. However, not all of the art groups in the Fredericksburg area started in Fredericksburg. The North Windsor Artist Group didn’t begin in Fredericksburg. Yet, each of the members is active in our local art community. Whether they are showing collectively, individually or volunteering on the board of local galleries. This group’s focus is the love of the artistic endeavor.

“From the beginning our goals were always to make art, strive for improvement and broaden our knowledge,” shared Jane Woodworth by email. A small group of artist with a desire to improve and broaden their knowledge would be the beginning of what would later become the North Windsor Artist. This small group would have several different meeting places over the years. However, the goal of making art, striving

for improvement and broadening knowledge has followed them for the last 50+ years. The group has held classes over the years with teachers, who are well known names in the area, such as Johnny Johnson. As time went on the group would travel to places as Shrinemont for workshops at Orkney Springs, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania. Excursions to museums, classes with known artist, and even abroad at times to Italy and Belgium, all with the cornerstone of the group in mind: Painting and progressing. Over the years, the North Windsor Artist group has stayed small but mighty in their influence on the Fredericksburg Art scene. Woodworth shares in her email, how North Windsor Artist were instrumental in the creation of Art First (the art co-op in Fredericksburg), exhibiting at Liberty Town and her, Hagenlocker and Ross opening Blue Door Studio. During a brief time in mid-2000, the group was not as active. Over the years, members had died and others moved out of the area. However, a retrospective show at the Fredericksburg

Museum in 2014 renewed a spark of activity for North Windsor Arts. This activity would include a new member in 2016. Woodworth eloquently states, “The active group may be different now...change is inevitable.” She feels there will be new life breathed into North Windsor Artists and will provide opportunities for the group to have forward momentum; while keeping the focus of ‘working artist’ helping to encourage the arts through making art, striving for improvement and knowledge. During the month of October, the current roster of North Windsor Artists: Paula Raudenbush, Helen Butler, Elsie Hagenlocker, Anita Holle, Joan Limbrick, Dee McCleskey, Carrol Morgan, Sharon Ross, Robyn Ryan, Jane Woodworth, and Maggie Bice will be showing their artistic creations at Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts. Come and see the new works of a small but mighty part of our art history. Dawn Whitmore is a landscape photographer and writer who lives in Spotsylvania. Learn more by visiting her on FB:

Kathryn Willis happily advocates for the region's arts and culture.

Wills and Trusts Provide for Incapacity Trusts for Minor Children Wealth Preservation Trusts Avoid Probate AhearnEstateLaw.com 10

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

540/371-9890 front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

For the Love of Artistic Endeavor

Neal Reed

The North windsor artist group

potter for life

By dawn whitmore

By Kathyrn Willis

Kathryn Willis happily advocates for the region's arts and culture.

Wills and Trusts Provide for Incapacity Trusts for Minor Children Wealth Preservation Trusts Avoid Probate AhearnEstateLaw.com 10

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

540/371-9890 front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Vino bogle phantom by scott richards

Serving Up Local “Good” News Since 1997

Front Porch Fredericksburg

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

It is fall and things like Halloween, Brunswick stew and raking leaves are on the forefront of everyone's mind. Thankfully, I do not have a lot of trees in my yard so I do not have to worry about raking, but I do have to prepare the vineyard for winter. Even after harvest, the vines must be cared for. Around this time of year, Bogle Vineyards out of California is pushing The Phantom, This year's vintage, 2013, is one of the best yet of what has swiftly achieved a cult following in the Fredericksburg area. This annual blend is produced in a limited amount, appearing on retail shelves around August and disappearing when the supply runs out, which is usually sometime in early November. Like any wine produced, the varietals vary from year to year, with this year's edition being one of the best yet. The Phantom consists of 39% Zinfandel, 38% Petite Syrah, and 23% Cabernet Sauvignon. Blending the Zinfandel and Petite Syrah has added a richness to this wine in years past, and the tradition continues. Aged 24 months in one and two year old oak, there is a strong hint of vanilla on the palate at first and a taste of chocolate on the very end of a significant finish. In between, the taste of wild berries, black pepper and juniper greet the tongue. The tannins do not overwhelm, but deliver a promise that this wine is a good one to cellar for the future. I usually buy several bottles each year so I can see how it ages. Because of its intensity of flavor, The Phantom pairs well with a large meal such as roast beef with all the trimmings, or wild game, as the strength and finish can easily support a variety of culinary tastes. Also, having friends over for heavy hors d'Oeuvres and this wine is not a stretch. October is also Virginia Wine Month, a time when we celebrate the Commonwealth's burgeoning wine

industry. Sporting 250 plus wineries, changes have come into the industry within the past year as wineries are competing with the cideries that are making quite a splash in the state. Athena Vineyards, in the Northern Neck, recently was sold and will eventually be a cidery. But this column is not about cider, it is about wine, so pardon my digression. Wine festivals this month include the 26th Annual Fredericksburg Wine Fest to be held at the Spotsylvania Towne Centre on October 8-9. Wineries participating will be Ingleside Vineyards, Rogers Ford Farm Winery, Lake Anna Winery, Burnley Vineyards, James River Cellars Winery, Hartwood Winery and Mattaponi Winery. All of these wineries are established businesses and provide an excellent variety for differing tastes. On October 22, Caret Cellars will be holding their 2016 Harvest Festival at their Caret Facility. Included will be live music, food, and of course, wine. October looks to be a busy month for the Fredericksburg regional wine scene. Go out and enjoy Virginia's finest at the many wineries in the area. Cheers! Scott Richards is owner of Loch Haven Vineyards

Season’s Bounty Ein kleines Bier, bitte By vanessa moncure “Ein kleines Bier, bitte” - “one small beer, please” - just about the extent of my college-age spoken German, but a phrase of vital importance while touring Germany, and Austria too. An open invitation from a friend to visit Munich, and a plane ticket later I was at her haus, innenstadt zentrum von Munchen. (OK, well I do know a bit of German - her home was in downtown Munich). Within walking distance was a traditional biergarten, long communal tables under boughs of chestnut trees, gaily lit with trellised electric lights and sometimes a blaskapelle (oompah band) punctuating the night. Bier gartens, unlike bars or pubs, is a place for the whole family - you’ll see hostelstaying backpackers sitting alongside families, tourists next to nativer Munchens (the locals) - drinking, eating, watching the world go by. Running annually from late September into October is Germany’s ubiquitous Oktoberfest, the world’s largest traditional folk festival featuring drinking, eating, music, dancing, parades, drinking, an annual religious mass, drinking, carnivals - and did I mention drinking? Oktoberfest traditionally begins with the mayor of Munich tapping the first Oktoberfest beer barrel, making 2016 the 209th annual Volksfest of what began as a celebration of King Ludwig’s marriage. So many traditional foods - crusty salt-strewn pretzels; Bavarian cheeses and sausages; slow roasted, butter basted Wiesn-Hendl chicken with potato fries; kraut and pork knuckles and an endless array of strudels, kuchen and torten. Prosit! BIERKASE - BEER CHEESE Cream together well ½ c. each butter, cream cheese, and your choice of Roquefort, Bleu or Gorganzola cheese along with a dash of Worcestershire sauce (optional - can add 1 tsp. Each caraway seeds and finely minced onion). Pack into a small crock and chill overnight. Serve with cocktail rye or pumpernickel breads or crisp Scandanavian bread and rye crackers. GULYASSUPPE -G GOULASH SOUP A hearty favorite from the Munich beer halls. For best flavor, make a day ahead of time. Saute 1 pound boneless beef chuck, cut into 1” cubes and one large onion, diced, in 3 T. fresh lard or bacon fat over low heat. Sprinkle liberally with paprika, stirring almost constantly. Meat should brown slightly - add 1 heaping T. Hungarian sweet paprika, S&P, 2 T. vinegar, stir in 1 T. each tomato paste and caraway seeds, ½ tsp. marjoram, 1 grated clove garlic and 1 ½ qts. water or beef broth. Cover and bring to a boil, then simmer gently for 45 minutes or until meat is almost done. Add 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced, and cook slowly for an additional 30 minutes or until meat and potatoes are thoroughly cooked. Serve piping hot in deep bowls, garnishing with sour cream if desired.

WURSTE - SAUSAGES Germany is known as the sausage capital of the world. A traditional midmorning or late-evening snack of assorted sliced sausages served with rolls and butter, whole radishes and pickled gherkins is very popular. A traditional German sausage shop (Wurstladen) might include upward of 100 types of sausages - White, brown, black, tan, red and brown wursts - some raw, some smoked or cooked, even pickled in brine. A delicious Bratwurst dinner slowly grill or pan saute raw Bratwurst sausages, turning often until golden brown and completely cooked through. Serve with fresh sauerkraut (sprinkle with caraway seeds) and fried potatoes. Grilled green and red peppers are great with Bratwurst - leftovers make a great hot sandwich the next day! ROTKOHL - RED CABBAGE. SO much better than opening a jar! Shred a 3-pound head of red cabbage. In large Dutch oven, heat 3 T. butter over medium low heat. Stir in 1 T. sugar and melt it slowly, cooking until it is golden brown. Add 1 large apple, peeled, cored and diced along with 1 minced onion. Cover and braise 3 minutes over low heat. Add shredded cabbage, mixing well so the cabbage is coated with the apple and onion mixture. Pour 4 T. wine vinegar over kraut, mixing well. Cover and braise about 10 minutes, or until the cabbage has turned “blue” or bright purple. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, add ¼ c. water, cover and braise until cabbage is tender. Stir in ¼ c. red currant jelly, mixing well, and serve while hot. APFELSTRUDEL - APPLE STRUDEL Fortunately, traditional strudel dough is a variation of frozen phyllo dough. Defrost frozen phyllo dough in refrigerator overnight. Do not open the package until you’re ready to work with the dough. I usually cover open phyllo dough with waxed paper and a damp towel. The layers are tissue-thin and dry out very quickly. For the filling, combine ¾ c. finely chopped walnuts, 2 pounds of peeled, cored and thinly sliced apples, ¾ c. golden raisins or currants, grated rind of one lemon, 1 tsp. Cinnamon and ½ c. sugar. You will also need about ½ c. melted butter and fresh breadcrumbs (about 2 T.) Place a sheet of parchment or bakers’ paper on a jelly roll pan. Working quickly, brush individual sheets of dough with melted butter, stacking them until you have a layer of about 20. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Place the apple mixture along the right third of dough, then roll from that side, placing it seam-side down on your baking sheet. Brush top of roll with butter, then bake in preheated 350F oven about one hour, until pastry is crisp and golden brown and apples are cooked through. Let cool slightly, sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar and serve. Have a great Oktoberfest!

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

Serving Breakfast Sandwiches 10am ~ 11:30am Lunch 10am ~ 4pm Open Monday ~ Saturday 10am - 4pm 540.371.2233 www.thevirginiadeli.com 826 Caroline corner of Caroline & George Streets

S ammy T’ s DOWNTOWN FREDERICKSBURG’S

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 front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Vino bogle phantom by scott richards

Serving Up Local “Good” News Since 1997

Front Porch Fredericksburg

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

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

Serving Breakfast Sandwiches 10am ~ 11:30am Lunch 10am ~ 4pm Open Monday ~ Saturday 10am - 4pm 540.371.2233 www.thevirginiadeli.com 826 Caroline corner of Caroline & George Streets

S ammy T’ s DOWNTOWN FREDERICKSBURG’S

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 front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Cooking With Kyle Ratatouille

October 2016

limited edition Bourbon Released

by Amy Preske

by james kyle snyder

Celebrations of harvest and seasonal change are everywhere: Oktoberfest, wine and vineyard festivals, apple festivals, pumpkin festivals, foliage festivals, and, at the end of October, Halloween - a derivative of a Celtic holiday that celebrates the transitions of harvest and the beginning of the boreal season which is believed to be the season that bridges to the worlds of the living and dead. With all this bounty, picking a favorite recipe is difficult at best! Because vegetables are going to grow scarce, except for our canned ones, we should continue to enjoy them until they are gone. Ratatouille! Ratatouille (as requested by Stephanie at Salon 730 – you must stop by and see her), traditionally, is a vegetable dish that individually pan fries vegetables (so that they keep their shape and texture) and then stew them in oil. This dish is both served warm as a side and cold as hors d’oeuvres. Although, I am presenting a traditional ratatouille, learn the process and you can personalize this dish! As Provençal stews go, ratatouille is one that has proven to be a favorite; continually showing up on menus and in social settings, evoking enough love to inspire an Oscar winning animated movie which grossed over $623 M at the box office. Ratatouille is comfort food, familiar and secure to many. Although, some of the prep takes time, this time is spent communally in a central kitchen, talking and commiserating about the day while preparing the evening meal. The steps are easy and demand that you slow for a minute to enjoy the company of others. Preheat the oven to 275. Cube into 1in x 1in pieces: 1 small eggplant - ends cut off, 1 medium zucchini, 1 green and 1 red bell pepper, 1 medium yellow squash, and 2 well-ripened tomatoes.

SpiritS

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

There are many ways to prepare this dish: in a pan, in a pot, and in a casserole are just a few. We’ll discuss the traditional casserole starting on the stovetop and moving to the oven. Over medium-high heat in the Le Creuset, sauté the eggplant cubes, about 8 minutes; remove with slotted spoon and reserve. Repeat this individually for the zucchini, green bell peppers, red bell peppers, onions, and yellow squash. Add ¼ cup olive oil, tomatoes, 1 tsp thyme, 1 TBS minced garlic, and 2 tsp of S&P to the casserole dish and bring to a boil. Return all the vegetables to the Le Creuset and bring back to a boil, gently folding to combine. Cover the casserole dish and place in the oven for 45 minutes. Check for doneness (should be toothy). Place back on the stovetop uncovered on high and reduce the liquid by 2/3, stirring gently once or twice to prevent burning. Remove from the heat, folding one last time, and let the ratatouille rest for 30 minutes before dressing for service. Dress with chiffonade basil and chopped parsley. Serve immediately, let cool to room temperature, or chill as a cold side. All are delicious and each a little different than the other. Although, this dish takes some time during the prep and initial cooking; taking the time to follow the steps discloses the necessary alchemy to produce a favorite dish of all peasantfood-loving culinarians around the world. Many other methods produce a pile of mushy, bland vegetables that are indiscernible for the intended dish. The warm memories that are invoked by the familiar smells of the stewing vegetables take us to a happy place of family and friends. Enjoy this simplistic, easy distinctive dish. Be well!

Front porch fredericksburg

A. Smith Bowman Distillery announces the latest release in its Abraham Bowman line of expressions, the Abraham Bowman Limited Edition Gingerbread Cocoa Finished Bourbon. Marrying two Virginia gems, this limited edition bourbon was aged in a special batch of barrels used by A. Smith Bowman Distillery and Hardywood Park Craft Brewery in Virginia. The barrels originated at A. Smith Bowman in 2010, where they aged bourbon for four and a half years. The barrels were emptied and sent to Hardywood Park Brewery to be filled with two special beers: six barrels aged Gingerbread Stout and four barrels aged Foolery Imperial Milk Stout. Both of the beers aged inside these barrels for eight months before being emptied again and sent back to A. Smith Bowman in December 2015. They were then finally filled for the last time with bourbon that had aged for nine years inside of new charred white oak barrels. This bourbon was distilled in December of 2006 and was allowed to finish for 17 months inside these special barrels. Master Distiller Brian Prewitt determined through periodic tasting evaluations that the rich caramel and oak flavors of the bourbon had intermingled with the spice notes of gingerbread and hints of cocoa in an extraordinary way. "This bourbon tastes of ginger, vanilla, and cinnamon topped off with notes of cocoa. The gingerbread spice aroma gives way to caramel and toasty oak and finishes with a smooth and pleasant finish," states Prewitt.

The Abraham Bowman Limited Edition Gingerbread Cocoa Finished Bourbon is part of a series of limited edition whiskies, named after Abraham Bowman, the commander of the 8th Virginia Regiment in the American Revolutionary War. Each edition of the Abraham line is a different expression and a new release is offered a few times a year. This is the 15th release in the Abraham line. The Abraham Bowman Limited Edition Gingerbread Cocoa Finished Bourbon will be available for Virginia residents to purchase through the VA ABC Lottery on Thursday Sept. 29th, and in the A. Smith Bowman Distillery Visitor Center starting Oct. 1st. It will also be available in limited amounts in other states starting in mid-October. Quantities are very limited and most product will be available in Virginia. The Abraham Bowman series aims to release new and different expressions of innovative whiskey for each release, so it is unlikely this exact bourbon will be repeated. The age of this bourbon is 9 years and 8 months and it is 90 proof. It is available in a 375 ml only and suggested retail pricing is $39.99.

Amy Preske is the Public Relations and Events manager/ for the Distillery. Contact her at , apreske@asmithbowman.com

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

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

Locally Owned Irish Pub and Restaurant

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

11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm

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

The Sunken Well Tavern Open M - F at 6 am Open Sat & Sun at 7 am Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Sunday Brunch 9 am - 2 pm $5.00 Weekday Lunch Specials

540.373.8300

The General Store

Restaurant

Since 1978

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

371-4075 2018 College Ave. Fredericksburg

By M.L. Powers

Tuesday to Saturday

200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738

620 Caroline Street

Buon Appetito!

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

Fredericksburg appears to be a magnet for talented chefs and restauranteurs. Another gem, Orofino, has opened at 1006 Caroline Street. This petite treasure seems to fit perfectly into the old Foode location. The brick alley way and flowers on the walls are reminiscent of small cafes in Europe, and this is a little piece of Italy in more ways than one. Danilo Orofino has a familiar story that many of us have heard our own families tell. He came over from Palermo, Sicily where he was raised and had begun a career in the culinary world. He spent time in NYC working at a popular eatery, and then as fate had it, he met his soul mate, Alona. From there, they made the move south to our little city. It seems like Danilo was born under a lucky star, but this is really a story of hard work and determination. He spent four years at Basilicos, a hot spot on Cowan Blvd. until the opportunity arose to open his own store. He said they knew it was the right time and place to try it on their own. Alona is the behind the scenes manager, and Danilo runs the shop and kitchen. The concepts behind Orofino are simple. Provide authentic food that is true to its origin, and educate their guests on what it would really be like to eat in Italy. For those who have traveled to Italy, they will be able to say that the food is as genuine as they remember. Additionally, most of the staff is family that came over from the old country. I can attest to the delicious menu. A friend and I had lunch there soon after they opened. Everything was a little better than I expected. A good caesar salad is hard to find, but theirs was as perfect as I can remember with just a hint of anchovies in the dressing. I tried the Gnocchi al Pesto and my friend tried a flatbread sandwich with pear, walnut,

honey and arugula. Our waiter talked us into the Lemon Cake for dessert, which absolutely melted in your mouth. All the dishes were exceptional. Though the space is limited, the Orofinos have big plans for the near future. They will be offering wine tastings, wine paired dinners, cooking and language classes. During the classes, one can try a glass of vino or an appetizer at a reduced price. Presently, the menu displays a map, and each item on the menu corresponds to a location that identifies its origin. Each month, they will have a special menu that features a different region of Italy. September was Sicily, October is Venuto and November is Campania. They are closed on Sunday, but open the rest of the week from 11-9 pm and 11-10 pm Friday and Saturday. Check out the website for some fun and interesting stories. Orofino is a great addition to the vibrant downtown restaurant scene. M.L.Powers is a foodie who covers the local restaurant scene for FPF

front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Cooking With Kyle Ratatouille

October 2016

limited edition Bourbon Released

by Amy Preske

by james kyle snyder

SpiritS

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

Front porch fredericksburg

Amy Preske is the Public Relations and Events manager/ for the Distillery. Contact her at , apreske@asmithbowman.com

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

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

Locally Owned Irish Pub and Restaurant

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

11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm

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

The Sunken Well Tavern Open M - F at 6 am Open Sat & Sun at 7 am Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Sunday Brunch 9 am - 2 pm $5.00 Weekday Lunch Specials

540.373.8300

The General Store

Restaurant

Since 1978

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

371-4075 2018 College Ave. Fredericksburg

By M.L. Powers

Tuesday to Saturday

200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738

620 Caroline Street

Buon Appetito!

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

front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

CALENDAR of events

oct 2016â&#x20AC;Ś Autumn harvest, Autumn color, Autumn air, ....Ah Autumn! Entire Month of October

Mary Washington died of breast cancer in 1789. Each October, Washington Heritage Museums honors Mary's struggle and shows support for others by tying pink ribbons on the fence of the Mary Washington House, 1200 Charles St. Ask for a ribbon and tie it on to the fence in honor or memory of those who have battled breast cancer. Snead Farm Fall Festival, pick your own pumpkins, swing I the hay barn, pet barnyard animals, and try "Out of Your Gourd Maze". The Well@ Snead Farm open weekends 10a-5p, serving locally sourced food by the chefs of Sunken Well Tavern. Sneadfarm.com/fallfest

Saturday, October 1

Capital Ale Oktoberfest, all day, Caroline St. $ Annual Fredericksburg Fall Fairy Festival Olde Towne Carriages hosts this community event with portions of the proceeds given to local charities. Face painting, magic show, crafts & more 12-5pm, Old Mill Park Wings & Swing Benefit Dance @ Stafford Regional Airport, 1940s era Swing Dance! Vintage Attire Encouraged! All ages Welcome! No Partner Needed!. 6:30-11pm

Sunday, October 2

Escape: Paintings by Joelle Cathleen and Photography by G. Sean Walker.@ UUFF Gallery, 25 Chalice Circle, FXBG, 22405. , 11:45 -1:30pm Bluegrass Jam @Sunken Well, 720 Littlepage, 79pm It's a Sunday tradition with some of the best pickers around.

Monday, October 3

Fall opening of St. James House, 1300 Charles St, 1-4pm. Enjoy this rare chance to tour thru this 18th century gentlemen's cottage & stroll through its gardens. Cost is free for Washington Heritage Museum members and $3.00 for non-members.

Tuesday, October 4

Open Mic Night at Bistro Bethem half priced pizza, drink specials, and open mic music on our "stage" from 8-11PM. No cover and free parking in the lot across the street at 306 William Street.

Wednesday, October 5

Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St.

Indoor Yard Sale. Dorothy Hart Community Center, 9am-2pm

26th annual Fredericksburg Area Wine Festival @ The Village, neighboring Spotsylvania Towne Centre, 11a-5p

Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com

Headstart Benefit Concert @ Booster Park, 11177 Bloomsbury Rd,Orange, VA 22960 lots of vendors from food to independent consultants. games for all ages. The event is free

Thursday, October 6

Sunday, October 9

"Role of the Architectural Review Board", Erik Nelson, Senior Planner with the City of Fredericksburg will discuss the role of Architectural Review Boards. Free and open to the public.10am CRRL Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar. See our ad on pg 12 for more info

First Friday Oct 7

FCCA North Windsor Artist Featured Exhibit in Frederick Gallery ~ October Member Gallery Show Featuring Taylor Cullar and Vicki Varela "Points of Reference" Exhibition Continues@ PONSHOP Studio and Gallery, an exhibition featuring James Walker for the month of October. Opening Reception - All Member Show @ Art First Gallery,824 Caroline St A wide variety of original art will be on display thu-out the month. Members of the gallery will be available to share refreshments and discuss their paintings, sculpture, fine crafts and photography. Karen Julihn "autumn Transitions" @ Brush Strokes Gallery, 824 Caroline Street, First Friday Reception, Exhibit thru October

Saturday, Oct 8

Annual Pumpkin Workout, 9am. Register at Pitaiyo.com Via Colori , annual the annual street painting event, all day. Charlotte Street Between Sophia & Caroline Everything But the Garage Sale @ Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center, all day

Thursday, October 13

Children's Book Reading & Signing at Agora Downtown Shop, 520 Caroline St, eAshley Volk will be reading her book "Not Yet with Roots" 4-5:30p Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar. See our ad on pg 12 for more info

"Fred Vegas" Nina Angelini Solo Art Exhibition, "Fred Vegas" Sunken Well Tavern, 7-9pm.

Via Colori , annual the annual street painting event, all day. Charlotte Street Between Sophia & Caroline

Friday, October 14

We Are All God's Children @ Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Fredericksburg, Sister Munira's talk will explore Islamophobia and Radical Acceptance. Lunch will be provided. 11:45a

A Reflection on La Biennale di Venezia (Cultural lecture) presentation by Prestpn Thayer (see article on pg 30) @ Sydnor Hall, St. George's Episcopal Church, 6:30p

Escape: Paintings by Joelle Cathleen and Photography by G. Sean Walker.@ UUFF Gallery,

Saturday, October 15

26th annual Fredericksburg Area Wine Festival @ The Village, neighboring Spotsylvania Towne Centre, 12-5p Art Reception at Bistro Bethem - Featuring the Works of Chuck & Leah Fromer , Hors d'oeuvres provided - cash bar. 2:30-4:30p. Paintings on display through December 4th.

Tuesday, October 11

The Adaptations Live at Bistro Bethem , 8-11p. Join us for half priced pizza, drink specials, and live music on our "stage" from 8-11PM. No cover and free parking in the lot across the street at 306 William Street.

Wednesday October 12th

"Find Your Art Buyers" 2pm-4pm, $10.00 FCCA Members/$25.00 Non-Members, Pre-registration is required. For more information contact Dawn,dewphotographyva@gmail.com, 540.300.1928 Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St. Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com

Karen Jonas Album Release @ Kenmore Inn. Tickets online

"Shine a Light on Domestic Violence", Empowerhouse 26th Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Event, Spotsy Towne Center, 12pm, info 540-373-9372. Join us in taking a stand in our community. Another Day, annual walk for suicide prevention, Spotsy Courthouse Village, 9am. Info http://mhafred.org/anotherday Indoor yard sale to benefit Fredericksburg Food Co-op. Drop off donations from 10 am - 2 pm. Help us raise funds to open a community-owned grocery store in FXBG. fredericksburgfoodcoop.com Free Community Health Fair @ Resurrection Lutheran Church, 6170 Plank Rd, FXBG 22407. 9a12:30p. more than 30 exhibitors with free health screenings, demonstrations, activities for kids and more. A pharmacist, dentist, nutritionist and other medical staff will be on-site for free consultations.

Sunday, October 16

Escape: Paintings by Joelle Cathleen and Photography by G. Sean Walker.@ UUFF Gallery, 25 Chalice Circle, FXBG, 22405. 10a -1p Fredericksburg Fall Home and Craft Festival@ Fredericksburg Expo Center, 10a -4p

Sunday, October 23

Bluegrass Jam @Sunken Well, 720 Littlepage, 79pm It's a Sunday tradition with some of the best pickers around.

Tuesday, October 18

Brokedown Boys Live at Bistro Bethem, oin us for half priced pizza, drink specials, and live music featuring the Brokedown Boys on our "stage" from 8-11PM. No cover and free parking in the lot across the street at 306 William Street.

Wednesday, October 17

Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St. Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com

Thursday, October 20

Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar. See our ad on pg 12 for more info

Friday, October 21

Piecemakers Quilt Guild Quilt Show @ Porter Library, 2001 Parkway Blvd, Stafford, VA 22554, , 100+ quilts, Certified Quilt Appraiser Mary Kerr on site available Show free & runs thru Oct 24. Whiskey & Wood Artsian Festival @A.Smith Bowman Distillery, woodwork will be featured, but the festival will also highlight a few glass artists, potters, and some metal artists and blacksmiths. 6pm.Call (540) 373-4555 for directions or info.

Saturday, October 22

Whiskey & Wood Artisan Festival @A.Smith Bowman Distillery, woodwork will be featured, but the festival will also highlight a few glass artists, potters, and some metal artists and blacksmiths10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is free to the public all day. Call (540) 373-4555 for directions or information UMW Philharmonic Orchestra October Masterworks @ University of Mary Washington, Dodd Auditorium, Sometimes music transcends pure sound and reminds us of our humanity and our role in society. Beethoven's Eroica symphony is such a work. 7:30p

Escape: Paintings by Joelle Cathleen and Photography by G. Sean Walker.@ UUFF Gallery, 25 Chalice Circle, FXBG, 22405. 10a -1p Bluegrass Jam @Sunken Well, 720 Littlepage, 79pm It's a Sunday tradition with some of the best pickers around.

Tuesday, October 25

Clay Mottley Live at Bistro Bethem oin us for half priced pizza, drink specials, and live music featuring Clay Mottley on our "stage" from 811PM. No cover and free parking in the lot across the street at 306 William Street.

Wednesday, October 26

Trick or Treat in Downtown Fredericksburg 12 - 2 p.m., The event will kick off at Riverfront Park, 600 Sophia St, Fredericksburg, at noon with activities for kids. Families may then proceed to downtown businesses displaying a pumpkin flier in the window for treats. Sponsored by the Fredericksburg Police Department. Free. Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St. Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com

Thursday, October 27

Learn About Becoming a Foster Parent @ Salem Church Library, all day Parent-Child Yoga at CMoR of Fredericksburg & the Yoga Foundation of Fredericksburg (YOFO) is offering a FREE, class 10a-10:45, available at no cost to any parent or child who has purchased daily museum admission or who has a membership/annual pass. Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar. See our ad on pg 12 for more info

Friday, October 28

Stage Door Productions Presents Dead Man's Cell Phone @ CRRL, 1201 Caroline St.a wildly imaginative new comedy by MacArthur "Genius" Grant recipient and Pulitzer Prize finalist, Sarah Ruhl, author of The Clean House and Eurydice. $

Saturday, October 29

Historic Cemetery Tour: Join costumed historic interpreters for the 16th annual tour of FXBG's 3 most historic cemeteries: St. George's Episcopal Church, Masonic, grave of Mary Washington.ride a trolley to each site. Refreshments provided. Meet the "Cemetery" Trolley at the Visitor's Center on Caroline St. 11a; 12:45p; 2:30p. $ Don't get spooked this Halloween! Bring the whole family to Trunk or Treat at Ebenezer United Methodist Church There are no tricks, just lots of fun for all ages, with games, bounce houses, s& more meet us at 161 Embrey Mill Road in Stafford. For more information, visit www.ebenezerumc.org or call 540-659-1349.

Sunday, October 30

Pumpkin Palooza at the University of Mary Washington 1-4p.m. Families can bring their children on campus dressed in their costumes for Halloween and fall crafts, games, and trick-ortreating; Woodard Campus Center, Great Hall; Free 540-654-1802. Escape: Paintings by Joelle Cathleen and Photography by G. Sean Walker.@ UUFF Gallery, 25 Chalice Circle, FXBG, 22405. 10a -1p Bluegrass Jam @Sunken Well, 720 Littlepage, 79pm It's a Sunday tradition with some of the best pickers around.

Monday, October 31 Happy Halloween!

If you are reading this 231st issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 20th year of continuous publication! If you are an advertiser, list your events. Deadline for November 2016 issue is October 20th. To submit events go to frontporchfredericksburg.com/submit

2968 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join

Front Porch on 16

October 2016

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October 2016

CALENDAR of events

oct 2016â&#x20AC;Ś Autumn harvest, Autumn color, Autumn air, ....Ah Autumn! Entire Month of October

Saturday, October 1

Sunday, October 2

Monday, October 3

Tuesday, October 4

Open Mic Night at Bistro Bethem half priced pizza, drink specials, and open mic music on our "stage" from 8-11PM. No cover and free parking in the lot across the street at 306 William Street.

Wednesday, October 5

Trivia Night w/quizmaster Josh Cameli @Sunken Well Tavern. 7:30pm. Get there early to get a seat! 720 Littlepage St.

Indoor Yard Sale. Dorothy Hart Community Center, 9am-2pm

26th annual Fredericksburg Area Wine Festival @ The Village, neighboring Spotsylvania Towne Centre, 11a-5p

Live Music @LaPetite Auberge, 311 William St, 8midnight. . No cover. lapetiteaubergefred.com

Headstart Benefit Concert @ Booster Park, 11177 Bloomsbury Rd,Orange, VA 22960 lots of vendors from food to independent consultants. games for all ages. The event is free

Thursday, October 6

Sunday, October 9

First Friday Oct 7

Saturday, Oct 8

Thursday, October 13

"Fred Vegas" Nina Angelini Solo Art Exhibition, "Fred Vegas" Sunken Well Tavern, 7-9pm.

Via Colori , annual the annual street painting event, all day. Charlotte Street Between Sophia & Caroline

Friday, October 14

We Are All God's Children @ Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Fredericksburg, Sister Munira's talk will explore Islamophobia and Radical Acceptance. Lunch will be provided. 11:45a

A Reflection on La Biennale di Venezia (Cultural lecture) presentation by Prestpn Thayer (see article on pg 30) @ Sydnor Hall, St. George's Episcopal Church, 6:30p

Escape: Paintings by Joelle Cathleen and Photography by G. Sean Walker.@ UUFF Gallery,

Saturday, October 15

Tuesday, October 11

Wednesday October 12th

Karen Jonas Album Release @ Kenmore Inn. Tickets online

Sunday, October 16

Sunday, October 23

Bluegrass Jam @Sunken Well, 720 Littlepage, 79pm It's a Sunday tradition with some of the best pickers around.

Tuesday, October 18

Wednesday, October 17

Thursday, October 20

Live Music at 7:30 Kenmore Inn. featuring drink specials at the copper top bar. See our ad on pg 12 for more info

Friday, October 21

Saturday, October 22

Tuesday, October 25

Wednesday, October 26

Thursday, October 27

Friday, October 28

Saturday, October 29

Sunday, October 30

Monday, October 31 Happy Halloween!

2968 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join

Front Porch on 16

October 2016

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October 2016

history’s stories

OUR HERITAGE

DAUGHTER OF THE CONFEDERACY

A look at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center collection

By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks From the beginning of her life it has been referred to as a tragic story. Varina Anne Davis was born in June 1864, the sixth child born to the President of the Confederate State of America, Jefferson Davis and his wife Varina. She was born just as the Southern Confederacy was in demise and the forces were beginning to retreat. She was born less than six weeks after her five-year-old brother had fallen from the balcony of the Confederate White House and died.

Rapid Ann River By John Reifenberg

She was named Varina Anne after her mother, however, she was nicknamed “Winnie” a name that she would carry forever. Several months later while still nursing the family would make the flight south as the Confederate capital was crumbling in flames as her father was captured and imprisoned at Fortress Monroe. Jefferson Davis had aged far past his early fifties, as he was blind in one eye in failing health. Varina and “Winnie” worked with federal authorities to have Jefferson receive less harsh treatment and allow them to stay with him. They did stay there for almost two years until Jefferson Davis was finally released. Once Jefferson Davis was released he was a man without a country and any means of obtaining income as all his land was destroyed and taken away from him. He still had four children under the age of fifteen when he was sixty years old. For the next several years the family moved to several places and “Winnie” went to school in Germany until her return at age sixteen to the family home that was now in Biloxi, Mississippi. By now her older sister had married and the two older brothers had died. She would become very close with her father who had become a symbol of the South’s “Lost Cause.” Jefferson Davis enjoyed his popularity, something he did not have when he was President of the Confederacy. He would introduce her to the crowd as “The Daughter of the Confederacy”. It is written that she was adored by thousands of Southerners. Winnie met a young Attorney Alfred Wilkinson from New York whom she wanted to marry, however, her parents said that since he was a “Yankee” it was not acceptable due to their background. “Winnie” finally was about to have her father’s consent when Jeff Davis suddenly died, this caused all of the wedding plans to be postponed. Winnie returned home and lived with her mother and she suddenly died at thirty-three of gastric malaria or as some said a broken heart. Dedicated to the memory of Merval Herndon, Ro Beverly, Charles Row and Ken Bonanno. Tuffy Hicks brings us little known historic facts each month in this space.

Among the tens of thousands of documents at the Center, there must be hundreds of thousands of what are known as search terms, a generic name for some word or phrase that generally depict a place name or a location or some other geographical point of interest. Search terms are handy aides when looking for a particular subject. One “lazy” day I had a few minutes and was scrolling through the infinite list. Out from the screen popped an anomalous short name that I felt confident was either a typo or a transcription error. Looking harder at the

October 2016

Maury Commons 900 Barton St 540-373-3704; crhc@verizon.net Front porch fredericksburg

Fredericksburg

By Ann Glave

water it offers. After a minor bit of research and a contact or two, it became apparent that the Rapidan was originally named after the early eighteenth century English monarch, Queen Ann. ( This is not the only recorded instance of her name being honored in our area. Another series of search terms reflect her elevated stature, and are much closer to home, Princess Anne Street). When the river name changed to its present form is not clear. One group of records gives a slight hint. They are from

screen, I discerned that the name was attributed to at least seven separate records. I clicked on the term to bring up its associated document numbers. The name appeared the same way on every record. No typo or missed transcription then. The phrase was “Rapid Ann”, a reference to what is known today as the Rapidan River. Almost everyone is familiar with the latter form of the rivers name, and its merger at the confluence with the Rappahannock River. The form of the name was a pleasant surprise. The “rapid” designation was apparently a colorful addition that mirrored the rivers descent toward its destination. Anyone who has canoed or kayaked it has witnessed the steep drops and the swift

the Works Progress Administration days of the 1930’s. A researcher for the WPA reports that the name Rapidan was recorded as Rapid Ann on the “older deeds”. A nice taste of colorful history preserved at the Heritage Center. So help yourself to our database and please pay us a visit.

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

Own The Movie A 40-minute film with aerial and underwater photography that tells the story of the Rappahannock River from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay.

The Heritage Center

October Events

Deed of tranfer dated 1881 referencing the “Rapid Ann River” Among the any documents at CRHC

Central Rappahannock Heritage Center

Virginia’s only Regional Archive

Downtown Buzz

Helping homeless children and families in City of Fredericksburg, Counties of Caroline, Stafford & Spotsylvania 540 371 0831

DVD $14.95; Members $11.96 www.riverfriends.org 540-373-3448 3219 Fall Hill Ave.

Downtowns survive when they have a distinct sense of place. There are 8 key elements that are essential to a Downtown’s sense of place. Kent Robertson’s article on “Enhancing Downtown’s Sense of Place (Sept. 1999) lists the following elements: 1) Downtown is distinct from other commercial settings. 2) Downtown and its sense of place have evolved over time. 3) Downtown represents the unique heritage of the 4) community. Downtown is 5) multifunctional. Downtown is pedestrian friendly. 6) Human activity is vital. 7) Downtown encourages people to linger. 8) Downtown engenders a high level of community ownership. The Downtown Fall Events touches several of these elements. They encourage people to stay Downtown longer or discover new businesses. They showcase the pride felt by the downtown businesses from their quality of their scarecrows and the number of participants. Plus, the events promote the walkability of Downtown. From October 8 to October 31, three different Downtown Fall Events will occur that will bring people to downtown: 1) Scarecrows are Coming! Contest 2) Movie Night and 3) Treats on the Streets. Rappahannock Rotary with Head Scarecrow, John Coker, has organized the “Scarecrows are Coming” promotion. Started in 2015, this new promotion along with Fredericksburg Parent & Family Magazine, Fredericksburg VA Main Street, and the City’s Police

Department have teamed up to offer Fall activities for Downtown which conclude on Halloween night. We have encouraged every type of business (service, retail and restaurants) to join in some way. The goals of these events are: Attract more/new customers and visitors downtown this Fall; Motivate returning and new customers to shop, dine and visit downtown more than once this Fall; Create a fun experience for families, friends, new and returning visitors. There are 60+ scarecrows committed for this year contest. It’s designed as a walking tour and colored coded by themes. Ballots are available on line at www.fredericksburgmainstreet.org and at participating locations. NEW THIS YEAR with the scarecrows contest- a scavenger hunt. We’re placing an orange and yellow pinwheel on three scarecrow displays. Contestants who correctly answer all three locations on the Official Scarecrow ballot will be entered to win one of three $100 Downtown Gift Cards. Winners selected by random drawing. And we added an additional category. Historic has been added along with the others - Funniest, Spookiest, Historic and Best Use of Business themed. Treats on the Streets exceeded expectations threefold last year! 80+ businesses will be engaged in handing out Treats from 11am to 2pm on October 29. River Front Park will be the starting point to receive a detailed map showcasing the streets and locations. Several activities are planned to entertain the kids. NEW THIS YEAR for Treats: To help manage the flow of trick or treaters, volunteers will be stationed at key intersections to guide foot traffic. Movie Night is a weather permitting event (no rain date) at Hurkamp Park with 6:30pm showing for It’s A Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown followed by a favorite, Hotel Transylvania. Great family event with free popcorn and glow sticks. The longer people stay downtown, the more businesses they will visit, thereby providing an economic benefit. One of the goals of Fredericksburg Main Street is to continue to grow our vibrant downtown! This collaboration is one way to go about enhancing Downtown’s sense of place.

Ann Glave is the Executive Director of Fredericksburg Main Street. She can be reached at 540-538-7445 or info@fredericksburgmainstreet.org

front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

history’s stories

OUR HERITAGE

DAUGHTER OF THE CONFEDERACY

A look at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center collection

Rapid Ann River By John Reifenberg

October 2016

Maury Commons 900 Barton St 540-373-3704; crhc@verizon.net Front porch fredericksburg

Fredericksburg

By Ann Glave

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

Own The Movie A 40-minute film with aerial and underwater photography that tells the story of the Rappahannock River from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay.

The Heritage Center

October Events

Deed of tranfer dated 1881 referencing the “Rapid Ann River” Among the any documents at CRHC

Central Rappahannock Heritage Center

Virginia’s only Regional Archive

Downtown Buzz

Helping homeless children and families in City of Fredericksburg, Counties of Caroline, Stafford & Spotsylvania 540 371 0831

DVD $14.95; Members $11.96 www.riverfriends.org 540-373-3448 3219 Fall Hill Ave.

Ann Glave is the Executive Director of Fredericksburg Main Street. She can be reached at 540-538-7445 or info@fredericksburgmainstreet.org

front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Companions Starting Over By Wendy Schmitz Every time I get a new pup I have to remind myself to start over. I can't expect the new dog to know our rules or to understand what I am saying. He may pick up some cues watching the others, but for the most part, it is best if I am patient and teach him the rules, instead of assuming he should know them. If I were to assume he came with a certain amount of knowledge, even just the word 'sit', I would be setting us both up for failure if this turned out not to be true. So in an effort to put my best foot forward with our new boy, I went all the way back to my early days of dog training and started hand feeding him. Hand feeding is something I recommend to all dog owners, whether your dog is new or you've been together a long time. Nothing creates or strengthens a bond like the act of hand feeding. It is a great way of saying "I care if you live or die," and a great way of conveying, "And I am a great leader who will take care of you." What is not to love about that? I have never seen a dog not succumb to the subtle messages of hand feeding with an increase in owner respect and attention. Our new boy, Opie, took to hand feeding like a pig to mud; and what's more he demonstrated he is ridiculously smart with his exuberance to please me. With hand feeding I recommend that the dog "work" for their food. If they know commands, sit and down can suffice, or if they are learning, using the food as a lure is a great too. But this guy is so smart and so quick, he isn't interested in being lured, he is interested in the fastest possible way to get food in his mouth, and therefore which behaviors he can offer to get this done. He is a veritable whirlwind of guessing, throwing out every possible body posture and gesture he can think of. I am both intrigued at his brilliance and frightened by it. This is the kind of dog every trainer hopes to find. In the three short weeks he has been here I have hand fed him at least

907 Charles Street, Downtown thescenteroftown.com

Wendy Schmitz and her husband Jay are raising two children and four dogs, all boys.

Old Town’s Greatest Tour 35 Monuments, Markers, & Attractions AND the Fredericksburg Battlefields Weddings Reunions Shuttles Parties Group Outings Fredericksburgtrolley.com 20

October 2016

Essential Oils Liquid Herbs Reiki Reflexology Aromatherapy Custom Blending Aroma-Therapeutic Massage Harmonic Resonance Therapy Products ~ Services ~ Classes

once a day. Each time I just sit and wait for him to "offer" a new behavior and if I like it, I give him some food, then I put a name to it. This is a great method of encouraging a dog to try new things and expand their knowledge base. So far, Opie has offered sit, down, stand, wait, roll over, crawl, shake, beg, high five, and play dead. He will now do all of these on command. I did not force him to do these things or lay out an agenda for them; Opie just offered them as I sat patiently with a bowl of kibble in front of his face. Once he realized doing "tricks" led to treats, he couldn't stop himself. Sometimes he does them all so fast in succession that he appears to be doing a choreographed dance. He is entertaining to watch and clearly the smartest dog in this house… you can bet I am properly in awe and equally terrified by his skill and desire. I wasn't sure we were ready for a new dog; with 4 already and two kids under 3, it certainly did seem like the right time, but something made me adopt Opie anyway. I have a theory: sometimes dogs come into your life to teach you something or remind of something; if you are open to their message you can become a better version of yourself. I think Opie was meant to find me, to remind me why I love dogs and who I really am; I'm the woman who will sit happily mesmerized by a puppy's courage to try new things, even when he has no idea where it will lead.

540-898-0737

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Mind Your Mind

It’s always more fun in the Scenter of Town!

hush your mouth

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

Education & Health

By Barbara Deal ble at Availa n.com Amazo

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

Emancipated Patients

A friend suggested a column on “how to have honest conversations about politics w h i l e maintaining friendships” Tis the season to have an opinion, it seems, as the e l e c t i o n approaches. That is the dilemma many of us face, how to be true to ourselves and in relationship. Don’t freeze out your friends. Do any of us have the right to change another’s mind? It is really about boundaries, isn’t it? Think about our history as a country and as Virginians. It hasn’t been that long since the Civil War broke us apart, even sister against brother. Blood on the ground and blood kin.

sounds like maybe you wouldn’t hear or let in the other’s outlook. Then would you intensify your words with voice tone, volume, body language to be more persuasive? Possibly, could you lose emotional balance, or even tantrum? Would it be worth the friendship to go there, even…Think about it. And maybe it would be worth it. Who is your audience? A friend with the same alliances and thoughts? Or disagrees mildly or intensely? Begin with an invitation. “Would you like to talk about…” Accept the answer. Should that person agree, monitor reactions on both sides.. Are you breathing? Slowly? Do it slower, even. How are you in this moment? Are you hungry, angry, lonely? tired? (acronym from AA, HALT..). Are you irritated? afraid? Frantic? Feeling superior? Or the other person’s behavior? If so, then stoppit.. Go away. Put yourself on house- arrest with your opinions, political affiliations and intensity. Do your friend, yourself and our community a

In my work there are principles (no universal answers) for helping one discover a personally satisfying solution That is how I write this for you, the reader. These are strategies for being in relationship with others. See if these fit your individual needs, wishes, situations and goals. So look at yourself. What is your motivation for talking politics with a person? Is it for the mutual intellectual search for new understandings? Are you looking to explore the other’s relevant knowledge? Are you seeking an exchange leading to your personal expansion and knowledge? Would your purpose be venting hopes, fears, anger? Do you hope to be reassured? Or are you proselytizing? Let’s look at that last intention. That could be taken as “preaching” Would you be hoping to win a person over to your view point? Unlikely. Given that intensity, you could offend a person. Here comes the boundary part: Did that person invite conversion? Back up. Should the person disagree, how would you behave? . But you ARE right, aren’t you? So then it

kindness. Protect us all from that opportunity. Should the other person clearly be uncomfortable., gently excuse yourself. Will you value them for future interactions? : Continue cherishing that relationship and out loud. “Look, we have been friends for a long time. I see this is important to you, too. Friendship is more important than all this fussing. Let’s just vote.” Should this difference mean the rip in that bond, still back away with restraint and respect. “I see this is important to you”. I hope to see your around”. Like the nice man’s way of rejecting a second date. “I’ll call you.”

Barbara Deal MA, LCSW is a psychotherapist at Mental Health Resources, ( 540 ) 899-9826

by patrick neustatter, MD Wife Paula and I are just back healthier lives. They’re less likely to be from a trip to the homeland – or mine at obese and smoke and generally be more least. into positive health behaviors according We flew in last night from to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation – England (though it is my contention that and rather disturbingly, young people in the body precedes the brain - which I the US today are less likely to graduate, speculate is somewhere still in mid- and therefor be less healthy, than their Atlantic. parents generation. It’s called jet-lag. But I am intrigued to speculate This was a trip very much tied up whether places like Summerhill and with so called progressive education – or Dartington aren’t particularly good for a “do-as-you-like” schools as the snarky child’s mental health. Allowing them to British press refers to them. And I have develop without a lot of the man-made been thinking about the fears and anxieties. Statistics show connection between I don’t have any stat’s education and health – and better educated people to support such an idea – in particular whether such just that the slightly (as measured by schools are better for your likelihood to graduate eccentric, but lively exhealth? high school) live longer, school buddies at the The guiding reunion seemed physically healthier lives.... principal of progressive and mentally healthy to education is that schooling me. should be child centered, based on the You may think it a stretch to notion that every child has “inner include type of education as a factor in strength, talents, and powers” which “can whether you are medically emancipated or be liberated and nurtured.” That the child not. But it seems to me a more liberating education will promote better health should be left to discover and do this for themselves. To progress at their own pace certainly better mental health at the time and direction rather than the dictates of of being schooled. some educational policy. All in an in But having experienced and been informal, friendly atmosphere. encouraged in personal determinism will Probably best known pioneer of give you the confidence to be a partner this philosophy was A.S. Neill who founded with your doctor rather than feel the need his well known, radical, free school, to passively accept whatever your doctor Summerhill in 1921 – which is still going tells you. in Suffolk England. Patrick Neustatter is the Medical I went to a similar type of school Director of the Moss Free Clinic. Read his in the rural heart of Devon, England – a book, "Managing Your Doctor, The place called Dartington Hall School, which Smart Patient's Guide to Getting Effective, Affordable Healthcare", may sound like something out of Harry available at Amazon.com Potter, but was also a great, easy going place where there were minimal rules and punishments – though everyone didn’t run amok. Nearly all the rules there were, were made by a meeting of the whole school, where the vote of students and staff were equal; we were on Christian name terms with the staff, who were like friend/advisors. It all made school days a pleasure, in contrast to so many of my friends who had to suffer repression and tyranny and hated their school. This trip we’ve just got back from was to attend a reunion of Dartington, and to try to find the war-time location of Summerhill (in the spectacularly beautiful countryside of Snowdonia, Wales). Also to find and my sister and my grandmother’s grave - as she was A.S. Neill’s first wife, and co-founder of Summerhill. Statistics show better educated people (as measured by likelihood to graduate high school) live longer,

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October 2016

Senior Care

ANOTHER DAY

Let’s Get Physical

Promoting Suicide Prevention BY christina ferber

By Karl Karch

Many years ago I gave up trying to have the perfect beach body. If the truth be told, I never even came close. I still often think about exercising, unfortunately more thinking than exercising. Like many, I procrastinate and easily talk myself out of it. As we age, we lose lean muscle mass which results in less strength, lower muscle-to-fat ratio, and a decline in bone density. But, physical inactivity does more harm than loss of muscle mass. The Center for Disease Control (CDC), in its weekly Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report of September 16, reported that 31 million Americans, roughly 28% of adults 50 years old and older, are at greater risk of chronic disease due to physical inactivity. Fortunately, research has shown that seniors can quickly rebuild muscles that have atrophied from years of sedentary living through resistance and other forms of exercise. The CDC also reported that exercise can help delay, prevent, or help manage four costly chronic conditions: heart disease, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and some cancers. The Arthritis Foundation has demonstrated that walking can reduce pain, increase balance and strength, and improve overall health. In a large scale study of seniors over the age of 65 carried out by Penn State University earlier this year, researchers found those who strength trained at least twice a week had a 41 percent lower risk of cardiac death, 19 percent lower risk of dying from cancer, and a 46 percent lower risk of death for any health reason. In another study, UK researchers found that weight-llifting in addition to aerobic exercise provides huge health benefits for those over the age of 65 and can help seniors preserve vital muscle mass and strength. Exercise is also important for the primary family caregiver to help reduce the stress associated with

October 2016

caregiving, especially if your loved one has Alzheimer’s or other dementia. The vast majority of seniors want to remain independent and live in their homes for as long as possible. Exercise and physical activity are essential components of maintaining independence and it’s never too late to start. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) research concluded that exercise is safe for people of all age groups. In fact, older adults hurt their health far more by not exercising than by exercising. Even if you spend most of your time in a wheelchair, you can still do exercises such as stretches, flexibility exercises, and arm curls. Many people tend to focus on one type of exercise or activity, like walking, and think they are doing enough. But, it’s important to do the four different types of exercises recommended for older adults which are: endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. The website https://go4life.nia.nih.gov/exercises is an excellent resource for simple and effective exercises for everyone regardless of physical limitations. So, if you are not exercising, I hope this information helps motivate you to start. You’re never too old to get stronger and improve your health. If you are exercising, try varying your exercise routine by incorporating the four types recommended by the NIH: endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. It’s important to note that before you begin any physical activity or exercise routine, get medical clearance from your physician. After getting clearance then, as Olivia Newton-John sang in her song, “Let’s Get Physical”. 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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Suicide is the second leading cause of death for those between the ages of 10 and 34, and on average, 117 people take their life every day. These statistics are startling, but there is a way to fight for this cause and support programs that save lives. Sponsored by Mental Health America of Fredericksburg (MHAF), the Another Day Campaign for Suicide Prevention aims to provide support for suicide prevention programs in our area and spread awareness of this preventable cause of death. On Saturday, October 15th, the Another Day annual walk for suicide prevention will be held at Spotsylvania Courthouse Village. “100 percent of the funds raised at the Another Day walk will be used to present suicide education programs, including the Signs of Suicide (SOS) curriculum in our schools,” said Rita Girard, MHAF’s director. “After the tragic loss of a young life four years ago, we knew we had to do something to fight this problem.” MHAF partnered with Spotsylvania County Schools (SCS) and Fredericksburg Counseling Services (FCS) to provide suicide prevention to Spotsylvania County freshmen, and last year, with the help of Catholic Charities and many other mental health providers, MHAF has expanded their efforts to include Fredericksburg City freshmen. This year, as a result of a partnership with The Sunshine Lady Foundation, SCPS, and FCS, they have expanded their suicide prevention efforts to 7th and 9th graders in both Spotsylvania and Fredericksburg. The Another Day walk helps to provide these

funds as well, and the hope is to expand into other school districts. “We won’t stop until we are providing suicide prevention education to all of Planning District 16 and know that we’re doing all that we can to stop this epidemic,” Girard said. Planning District 16 includes Spotsylvania, Stafford, King George, and Caroline Counties as well as Fredericksburg City. Another Day is not just a one day event though; it has grown into a yearlong campaign. Susan Lutz holds fundraisers and raffles throughout the year to raise money and promote awareness. Lutz lost her grandfather, father, and son to suicide. “Because suicide is such a taboo subject, I knew my story needed to be told. I want to do all that I can so that no one else ever has to go through what I did,” said Lutz. “I take part in this campaign because we need to change how we treat the mentally ill and the subject of suicide.” The walk, which is at 10 am (registration at 9 am), will continue its tradition of offering a memory wall to celebrate the lives of those affected by suicide, as well as colored beads representing how each participant has been touched by suicide. The expanded event will now include kids and family activities and a silent auction. Registered walkers who raise $25 or more will receive a t-shirt, and free food and beverages are offered to all walkers. On a personal note, I have been involved with this annual walk for a number of years after suicide affected my family. Being a part of a larger community that understood what I was feeling, helped to ease the stigma and guilt that I was going through. Now on the other side of that pain, I appreciate that I am able to volunteer at this event and help others process and heal by being a part of a larger cause. I urge anyone affected by suicide or who wants to help support suicide prevention in our area to register to walk for this event. I promise it will be a day well spent. To register as a participant or team, or to offer your support as a sponsor or donor, please visit http://mhafred.org/anotherday

Renew break free from bad habits by Joan M. Geisler Freedom is in developing one good habit at a time. “There are these two young fish swimming along and they happen to meet an older fish swimming the other way, who nods at them and says, ‘Morning boys, how’s the water?’ The two young fish swim on for a bit, and then eventually one of them looks over at the other and goes, ‘What is water?’” This is “the joke” with which New York Times bestseller Charles Duhigg finishes his book, The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business (Random House, 2012). Just like those young fish, our lives are largely determined by factors we never fully notice: our habits, those unthinking, automatic choices that surround us each day. They guide how we get dressed in the morning and fall asleep at night. They affect what we eat, how we do business, and whether we exercise or have a beer after work. Aristotle says, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit.” Habits actually save our lives If we had to spend the brain energy learning and relearning everything we do, we would be exhausted That is why so much of the activities we do in a single day are sheer habits In the 1990s, researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology discovered a simple neurological loop at the core of every habit. All habits, it turns out, consist of three parts: a TRIGGER, RESPONSE AND REWARD. The researchers dubbed this the “habit loop.” Trigger (Cue) - Create an object that will trigger, remind you, to do that which you want to develop into the habit. Respond – When you see that trigger, force yourself to do the habit. Reward – Predetermine the reward you will receive when habit reaches certain mile stones then completion. For example, I am trying to make the habit of rolling my sore shoulders with a baseball. The cue I have established is placing a baseball in front of my TV to “CUE” me to lay on the floor and roll out my shoulders. Now, when I see the cue, I force myself to lay on floor. The reward is less sore shoulders that are not tight with knots. Do you want to get into the habit of exercising? Put your sneakers next to your bed, put them on first thing and force yourself to go for a walk. Or pack a gym bag and put it in the front seat of your car to remind you to go to the gym after work.

Another key to creating new habits is called KEYSTONE habits. Keystone habits lead to the development of multiple good habits They start a chain reactions in your life that produces a number of positive outcomes. How to pick a Keystone Habit? For example, say that your keystone habit is to sleep 8 hours every night. Your initial goal is to get more sleep. The Chain Reaction Is: Becoming more productive each day; Consume less junk food; Having more time to exercise; Improved relationships with your spouse/family/friends because you’re not cranky At first you wanted more sleep, but this keystone habit generated a number of additional good habits! Making your bed every morning – pick up clothes on floor Washing dishes every morning– cause you to pack your lunch and prep for dinner Cleaning trash out of car – inspire you to keep house clean Lacing up your sneakers when you get home from work, or first thing in the morning – cause you to go for a walk or run or head to the gym Packing your gym bag – and putting it in the front seat cause you to go to gym after work

As a Behavioral Coach, Joan Geisler is here to help you create your BEST life! You can reach her at joan@8020lifefitacademy.com

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October 2016

Senior Care

ANOTHER DAY

Let’s Get Physical

Promoting Suicide Prevention BY christina ferber

By Karl Karch

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

As a Behavioral Coach, Joan Geisler is here to help you create your BEST life! You can reach her at joan@8020lifefitacademy.com

The Natural Path Holistic Health Center

891-6200

www.thenaturalpath.us

4413 Lafayette Blvd. Fredericksburg

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October 2016

Art in the Burg

Art is a Gift from the Heart

escape: a mixed media event

Escape The Paintings of Joelle Cathleen and Photography of G. Sean Walker UUFF Gallery Opening October 2, 2016 11:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Open to the public

“Sunset Bloom”, Joelle Cathleen

“Bound”, G. Sean Walker Painter Joelle Cathleen has long admired what she considers G. Sean Walker’s raw talent for photography. The two have been friends for many years, and Joelle Cathleen jumped at the opportunity to pair up with Walker for a mixed media show at UUFF Gallery in October and November 2016. The two have dubbed their collaboration Escape in reference to the landscapes, dreamscapes, nature-scapes inspired in their works. Walker says, “We hope the pieces will be a visual escape and will take people to another place.” Both artists are long-time residents of the area. While neither is new to the art scene in Fredericksburg, they have recently had successes in separate venues: Joelle Cathleen as a featured artist at La Petite Auberge and Legume, and Walker with a well-received show at Sunken Well Tavern last year. Walker says, “One of my favorite things about being a native of downtown, is being witness to such a significant art community. Being surrounded by musicians, artists, writers and the family of Arts that is Fredericksburg, has always inspired me to explore my creative view and outlet.” Walker says he found he could express himself through photography by taking a moment to

October 2016

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win downtown gift certificate

Identify this mystery house and you could win a gift certificate from a downtown merchant.

by a.e. bayne

capture the world the way he sees it and focusing his view on subject matter that most people don’t take the time to appreciate. “My hope is that I can inspire others with my images as much as the images inspire me.” Joelle Cathleen says, “I’m attracted to Sean’s work. I've seen professional photographers who’ve been doing it for years who don’t have the same capture that he has achieved. One reason I thought we’d pair well for a show together is there would be no hard planning. The colors and scenes that he chooses to incorporate into his photos are the same kinds of pops of color I have in my work. That’s going to be the link. Our pieces will all flow together naturally when they are up on the walls. It’s nature, outdoor photography and nature based landscapes.” Joelle Cathleen also says that Walker's images invite people to stop and think, something she makes a priority in her own paintings. She says, “I see that with Sean’s work, but I don’t with every photographer. There’s a story happening in Sean's photos. It makes you want to further investigate the scene.” Walker says he is pleased with the way his work has turned out for the show, as he has taken Joelle Cathleen’s suggestion and prepared some work on aluminum, a framing technique new to him. Other pieces will be offered as he has shown them in the past as 12 x 12 prints

Name This House

with four-inch mats in 20 x 20 frames. Joelle Cathleen’s work will be shown unframed and in traditional box frames. It will include new and previously shown landscapes in her signature style of precise lines, dreamy landscapes and pops of color. She will also show some of her newer abstract resin work similar to those she created for the interior of Legume, creating an interior landscape of their own. You can view Joelle Cathleen and G. Sean Walker’s work throughout the months of October and November on any Sunday at the UUFF Gallery, 25 Chalice Circle in Chatham, between 10 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Join them for the opening on Sunday, October 2, 2016, from 11:45

Here’s how: Email frntprch@aol.com, Subject: mystery house Identify house address Your name, address, email.

Daily hours 10 to 6. Artist on site Saturday. Artists: Lynn Abbott, Jen Callahan Penny A. Parrish, Beverley Coates 810 Caroline Street, Downtown Fredericksburg

The poem below is a hint of the location of the mystery house. Good Luck!

Last Month’s House: .814 cornell ave Winner of a Gift Certificate from Heather's Gift Shop Venise Lewis

My beautiful white face looks out on a scene not much changed by time. In the dim days of old, love abounded as my six young girls did frolic on my porches, Looking out on our honored veterans sleeping, horse and carriages creeping, But as the years flew by, my girls dwindled down to only two, white haired with changes aplenty, now gone with our love untouched. Oh joy,new laughter and young lives expected soon, new timbers and paint I can hardly wait, My porches will be filled like in the way back yonder, with happiness and prime-time partners.

a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For special appointments to see the work, call (540)

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FOR

G OOD ~ 806 C AR OLINE S T. F REDERICKSB UR G front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Art in the Burg

Art is a Gift from the Heart

escape: a mixed media event

Escape The Paintings of Joelle Cathleen and Photography of G. Sean Walker UUFF Gallery Opening October 2, 2016 11:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Open to the public

“Sunset Bloom”, Joelle Cathleen

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

win downtown gift certificate

Identify this mystery house and you could win a gift certificate from a downtown merchant.

by a.e. bayne

Name This House

Here’s how: Email frntprch@aol.com, Subject: mystery house Identify house address Your name, address, email.

Daily hours 10 to 6. Artist on site Saturday. Artists: Lynn Abbott, Jen Callahan Penny A. Parrish, Beverley Coates 810 Caroline Street, Downtown Fredericksburg

The poem below is a hint of the location of the mystery house. Good Luck!

Last Month’s House: .814 cornell ave Winner of a Gift Certificate from Heather's Gift Shop Venise Lewis

a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For special appointments to see the work, call (540)

S HOP

FOR

G OOD ~ 806 C AR OLINE S T. F REDERICKSB UR G front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Fredericksburg Vision Artist’s solo show reflects fxbg By emily hollinsworth

Nina Angelini, born in Uruguay, imagined American cities to look like New York City or Las Vegas, with tall buildings and dazzling lights. When she and her family moved into the United States, to Fredericksburg, Fredericksburg did not look like those

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October 2016

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cities, except for the moments when they would drive through Uptown in Central Park, which previously had neon lights around the buildings. Now Angelini felt they were in the city, that they were in America. This is one of many aspects of Fredericksburg that inspired her solo show, called “Fred Vegas,” at the Sunken Well Tavern on Thursday, Oct. 13 beginning at 6:30 p.m. Angelini recalls hearing the nickname “Fred Vegas” in high school, and it resonated with them ever since. “I want to invite everyone to one of my universes, to see the visual cues that over the years have becomed in my mind synonymous with the city of Fredericksburg,” Angelini said about the show. The proceeds from the show will go to a scholarship that Angelini and Justin Young, partner and Fredericksburg artist are working to create for a Germanna Community College student who has immigrated to the United States. Their short term goal is for the scholarship to be enough to pay for a class or a book stipend, though Angelini also wants to reach for a greater impact. Because of her undocumented status, Angelini had to pay out of state tuition during her enrollment at Germanna. “I’ve been in that situation, and it’s really hard to do without help,” Angelini said. Angelini said they wants to give people who have immigrated a chance to break outside of the jobs normally held by immigrants in America? “If we could help women like myself, my grandma, my mother, who are hardworking and smart, but relegated to cooking and cleaning jobs,” Angelini said. “I want to provide that leverage.”

Angelini took their art, which ranges from street art to pop art, to Washington D.C. and they got a show within six months of moving there. On Oct. 3, Angelini’s artwork, titled “Seven Deadly Sins and Limbo,” will be featured at the Amber Rose Slut Walk in Los Angeles. Another Fredericksburg area artist, Rene Fisher, will also be featured at the event. Angelini describes the Fredericksburg art community as large and involved. Angelini visited New York once, and after telling someone they met they lived in Fredericksburg, the artist said he had heard of the artists in Fredericksburg before. “People underestimate how large this community is,” Angelini said. They and the Fredericksburg art community have, in the past few year, had created approximately 50 masks for the Rappahannock Community Against Sexual Assault for its masked ball fundraiser, and had sold 20 pieces of artwork for a fundraiser meant to help the Fredericksburg SPCA. Angelini will also be involved with Via Colori on Oct. 8 and 9 with area artist David Hernandez to chalk

Nini Angelini Solo Exhibition Sunken Well Tavern Thursday, Oct. 13, 7-9 9 p.m. art protesting the Dakota Powerline and to celebrate Native American art. “It’s not a wonder that we stay here and push for more art,” Angelini said. Having experienced a difficult year, Angelini said Fredericksburg for her, a supportive and inspiring community that has grounded and expanded her art, has inspired her to create an inclusive and creative environment for people around and outside of Fredericksburg through her art gallery Art Mart, located on 1405 Princess Anne Street. “It’s been a very challenging year,” Angelini said. “But it’s the support of the community here that doesn’t just make it bearable, or easy to move past, but joyous.” For more information on the show and on Angelini, visit Art Mart on Facebook or @artmartfxbg on Twitter and Instagram. Emily Hollingsworth profiles artists, photographers and members of the Fredericksburg community. Photo by Michelle Pierson

Steve Jarrell

FXBG Music Scene

A Prophetic Son of a Beach comes home

Karen Jonas

By Kevin Brown

This month, we shine the spotlight on a “Favorite Son” of the city who has finally come home. Beach Music Hall of Fame member Steve Jarrell moved back to Fredericksburg this year after leaving in 1968 for the USAF and a long music career. We asked Steve to describe what it was like to grow up and play music in Fredericksburg during the 1960s, and also what is keeping him busy these days. Q. What was it like to be a teenager in Fredericksburg in the 1960s? We moved from North Carolina to scenic Riverside Drive when I was around 11 years old. Fredericksburg was a special place to grow up as a teenager in the 1960s. It was small town America, and those days seemed a lot like “Happy Days”. We’d cruise the circuit of the Hot Shoppes Restaurant, the R&S Snack Bar, and Eddie Mack’s Drive In where the waiters would hop onto the hood of your car and take your order as you drove into the parking lot. Then we’d head over to the drive in theater, back up our cars, and enjoy a show. We’d gather for “Dragnet” live music events hosted by Rev. and Mrs. Faulkner at the St. George’s Episcopal Church basement. Some lucky kids got jobs at the General Washington Inn where

by A.E. Bayne they enjoyed access to the pool in the summer. With neighbors Billy Kain, Robert Chinn, and Barry Sullivan, I’d wade across the river to Lauck’s Island and visit the house ruins over there. We’d wander up the river to the Embry Dam to swim and “do homework”. Forming bands was all the rage back when we were teenagers, and several of us musicians played all over town and Fairview Beach. Popular groups at that time were the Rebels (my first band), the Royals, the Exciters, the Infernos, the Rotations, and of course, the Prophets in our trademark togas. The Prophets become nationally known and provided the springboard for my music career, highlighted by a long stint with the Sons of the Beach. Q. Now that you have finally come full circle and moved back to Fredericksburg, what brought you back, and what are you up to? I came back to Fredericksburg because this is where I feel most at home. At my age, you appreciate more and more the value of a rock-solid support network of lifelong friends. I’m thankful that God has blessed me with the opportunity at this stage in life to return to residing alongside the scenic Rappahannock River and this city I so enjoyed as a teenager in the 60s. Now that I’m back, I still love playing and promoting the best music of my generation. You can find me playing with the Sons of the Beach at Shannon’s at Central Park on Wednesday nights, as well as other venues. I host the “Daddy O on the Patio” radio show from 10-2 PM MonFri on FredNetRadio, mybnr.com. I am working on plans to build the Virginia Music Hall of Fame right here in Fredericksburg to honor our famous Virginian musicians and inspire future generations. In my downtime, you might see me walking or biking loops around the River Heritage Trail/Canal Path where I meditate and recharge my batteries. It sure is good to be back home!

Album Release Party Karen Jonas / Country Songs Kenmore Inn Ballroom October 14, 2016, 8 p.m. $20.00 includes entry and CD Cash bar and merchandise available at the venue “We’d each like a Manhattan, and if you’d make it a little orangey? Up.” Tim Bray orders drinks at Kenmore Inn for Karen Jonas and himself that put a signature twist on a classic medley. The two have been experimenting with recipes in preparation for the release party of their highly anticipated sophomore album, Country Songs, just as they’ve often put a personal spin on classic country rhythms and lyrics during their time playing as a duo. Jonas and Bray have been such a fixture in Fredericksburg in recent years that they decided to keep it local while producing Country Songs and its accompanying music videos. Jonas says, “We wanted to make it a Fredericksburgcentric, local sound, so we recorded it at Wally Cleaver’s with Jeff Covert. It features a lot of Tim, and a little bit of Eddie Dickerson and Jay Starling, just a lot of Fredericksburg homegrown folks that we wanted to be a big part of this recording.” Jonas also hired local videographer Ryan Poe to shoot music videos for two songs off of Country Songs that show the versatility of Jonas’s and Bray’s talents. “Wasting Time” features Jonas at her emotive best, her voice a plaintive sigh among the oak barrels in the darkened warehouse of A. Smith Bowman Distillery. Alternately, Poe shot the title track “Country Songs” as a narrative that traverses the town of Fredericksburg, from the eclectic retail shop Hooked to the iconic train station to the oft frequented bar and music venues Colonial Tavern and the Kenmore Inn. The video also features many of the band’s family and friends. Though the wait has been longer than they anticipated for the release of Country Songs, Jonas says its been worth it. With their debut release, Bray says that the goal was to create something for family and friends to take away from their shows and enjoy. “Oklahoma Lottery picked up its own traction, which we were excited about but didn’t really expect,” Jonas says. “We’ve had Country Songs recorded since March of 2015, and

we wanted to have the time and space to do it the way you’re supposed to release an album, which meant a lot of front end work that we didn’t do with Oklahoma Lottery. We’re excited to do it the right way and really make a go of it. Plus, the press has been kind and we’ve received a lot of positive feedback.” While Jonas and Bray both acknowledge the pressure surrounding a second album, Bray says, “It’s art, so people might hate it.” Jonas elaborates, “If you send someone an album and they’ve never heard of you, they may not like it but that’s as far as it goes. If you send them a new album and they liked your last album, they’re going to tell people if they don’t like it. In the end it’s fine because I believe in what I’ve done, but it’s the risk that comes with a second album release.” Judging from the pre-release buzz in the press, Jonas and Bray have little to be anxious about with Country Songs. Country media website The Boot calls Jonas’s voice “smooth as a shot of bourbon,” and Saving Country Music calls the album "one of the most anticipated releases for the second half of 2016.” With the two years of touring that Jonas and Bray have been doing for Oklahoma Lottery, their latest collaboration is primed to push them even further in to the lime light. Next up for the group are more shows and a number of album release parties in New York, Philadelphia, Richmond, South Carolina, and the one right here at Kenmore Inn in Fredericksburg on Friday, October 14th. Buy your tickets today through Facebook at Karen Jonas Music, or on their website www.karenjonasmusic.com

front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Fredericksburg Vision Artist’s solo show reflects fxbg By emily hollinsworth

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October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

Steve Jarrell

FXBG Music Scene

A Prophetic Son of a Beach comes home

Karen Jonas

By Kevin Brown

front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Art in the Burg

THE POETRY MAN - By Frank Fratoe

Fall Dangler

Autumn Transitions

It surprises me suddenly when I hike along the wood, a solitary leaf dangling at the bottom of a strand spun down from its branch by spiderwork no one sees, as an autumn sun frazzles and cools the sky over me.

By Peggy Wickham amazing result is a new art form that transforms painting into mixed media. As an art student, Karen studied painting through VCU. Recently, she attended “Art in the Carolinas” under the tutelage of Trish McKinney where she learned about leaf printing. Karen also participated in a workshop hosted by Gerald Brommer whose focus on the process of collage influenced Karen to add

Brush Strokes Gallery 824 Caroline Street First Friday Reception, Oct 7 Exhibit thru October

“Fall Away”, Karen Julihn “Autumn Transitions” features a collection of seasonally themed work by Karen Julihn displayed at Brush Strokes Gallery throughout October, 2016. Delving into different mediums, Karen combines acrylics with collage and print making to create exciting abstracted images colorized with brilliant hues of crimson, cadmium and ochre to give her work it’s unmistakable hallmark signature. Striving to keep abreast of modern trends in art presents challenges for Karen. Early paintings in water color and acrylic became the foundation of her work; but her love of learning has made Karen an art student forever. Forging a new direction frequently begins with an inspiration, like a cue from nature, or a desire to try a new technique, and the

standout among hundreds of entrants, Karen earned a Judges Award in 2012, and was presented with a Purchase Award in 2016. She has also earned several honorable mention awards for her artwork at Crossroads Art Center in Richmond, and at the Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts. As a Fredericksburg Artist, Karen Julihn exhibits regularly at Brush Strokes Gallery as a member artist. She continues to experiment with new styles and techniques and is currently working on a series of small photo, paint and paper collages.

that leaf darts upon air like a butterfly jouncing, it moves in the windflow to turn, reverse, and drop while the spider overhead keeps threading his magic, as an autumn sun dazzles to color the sky above me.

Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city. He has written poems from the heart for Front Porch for the past 7 years.

“Mosaic of Leaves”, Karen Julihn paper and texture to her work. Taking her lessons to heart, she repurposes many earlier paintings by giving them an updated facelift with mixed media. Karen’s art work has received local recognition at the renowned biannual King George Art show. A

Give a Child Something to Think About

Books, Games, Amusing Novelties

empowerhouseva.org M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684 front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Art in the Burg

THE POETRY MAN - By Frank Fratoe

Fall Dangler

Autumn Transitions

Brush Strokes Gallery 824 Caroline Street First Friday Reception, Oct 7 Exhibit thru October

Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city. He has written poems from the heart for Front Porch for the past 7 years.

Give a Child Something to Think About

Books, Games, Amusing Novelties

empowerhouseva.org M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684 front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Preston Thayer

Fredericksburg Sketches A visual Celebration of our community

Opens Este Lecture Series

By Casey Alan Shaw

by Ashley Bevilacqua Anglin

The Fredericksburg-E Este Association, a sister city partnership with Este, Italy, will offer two new cultural lectures in the popular series that began in Fall 2015. On Friday, October 14, Dr. Preston Thayer (above) will present “A Reflection on La Biennale di Venezia.” (The city of Este is in the same region, an hour west of Venice.) Dr. Thayer holds a Ph.D. in Art History from the University of Pennsylvania, and has been a museum director and curator across the country from New Mexico to Illinois and Virginia. He has frequently lent his valued artistic and cultural expertise to the Association, of which he is a founding member. Dr. Thayer will not only provide a brief history of La Biennale di Venezia, but share his personal experiences reporting on this oldest and largest of contemporary art exhibitions. Members and the general public are welcome to attend this free event. Friendly conversation and light refreshments will begin at 6:30 pm. Dr. Thayer’s talk will begin at 7:00 pm, and conversation around the topic will resume by 8:00 pm. Association members and Board members look forward to meeting newcomers, and will be available to answer questions about the Association and to

provide information to those who may wish to join the organization. Throughout the year, other Italian cultural opportunities are offered, including food and wine events and exchanges with visitors from the sister city of Este. Recent highlights have included the visit of an Italian delegation for the official signing of the Sister City Proclamation in April at City Hall and related celebratory events, and the popular Pizza Palooza festival.. Forthcoming this fall are a visit from the new Mayor of Este and an inaugural artist exchange between Fredericksburg potter Neal Reed and Este artist Alfredo Dal Santo. On Friday, November 11 Professor Kevin McCluskey will present on "Corno Ducale, chopine and a braccio of silk velvet: Fashion & clothing production in Renaissance Venice More information about the Fredericksburg-Este Association, current and future events, and about Este is available from www.fred-este.org, or by email to fredeste2015@gmail.com.

FXBG’ERS

When I began sketching local scenes, this was one of the first sketches I created. My educated guess is that St. George’s and its iconic bell tower are probably the subject of many local artists’ early works. If there’s one building that says “Fredericksburg,” this is it. You’ll find it in everything from historic Civil War renderings to Cliff Satterthwaite’s unbelievably realistic oils to Brandon Newton’s beautiful “Fredericksburg at Night in the Rain” paintings. Of course, since this was one of my early sketches, there are a lot of things I might do differently if I draw this same scene again. But, for a “starter piece” it wasn’t too bad and it started me down this joyous path of creating art that I can share with others who have a fondness for this little ‘burg ... and maybe that was this piece's true purpose. Casey Alan Shaw is a local artist and Realtor. He exhibits his original artwork and limited-edition prints at Art First Gallery in downtown Fredericksburg and at www.caseyshaw.com.

The volunteers highlighted in this column during the last year in our Front Porch paper, have walked the walk, lived these words, placing this bold, compassionate philosophy foremost in their lives. They are leaving messages of love and hope for the people they touch and help. Ethel Hellman, another compassionate volunteer in our "Burg." A Texas girl, who grew up in Galveston. Her father's mother was a homesteader in Oklahoma. She has that independent resourceful,"we can do it" attitude that is so on target for encouraging and modeling attitudes and behavior for families who have lost so much hope and positiveness in their lives. After graduating from the University of Texas, with a major in history and sociology, she and her husband joined our U.S. Peace Corp.,and

606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg 373-7847 www.gemstonecreations.org

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesdays until 6:30 and by appointment

Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged

By Jo Loving

by georgia Lee Strentz

Ashley Bevilacqua Anglin is Fredericksburg-Este Association Board of Directors, Communications Chair

Frontporchfredericksburg.com FB@FrontPorch Magazine

an now, a word from our sponor

ETHEL HELLMAN

"Not to hurt brethren is our first duty to them, but to stop there is not enough. We have a higher mission, to be of service to them wherever they require it." ~St, Francis of Assisi

SKETCH #23: St. George’s

From My Porch

Supporting All Things Local Since 1997

worked in family planning with the people of India. After serving in the Peace Corp, they returned to the U.S. to Washington D.C., and started their career paths, and their family of sons. Ethel has been a paralegal and worked in family planning, but her major focus in her career path has been in libraries. From Austin, Texas, to the College of William and Mary, then moving on to an internship at Princeton University, a stint at the University of Maryland, (College Park) to her position as Collections Conservator for Harvard College library, a position she held for 11 years, until her retirement. When not volunteering, Ethel conserves books in her home bindery. Empowerhouse, where Ethel volunteers, is a nonprofit organization which appealed to Ethel as a gratifying and interesting place to donate her time for many reasons. The training was extensive, she put in 40 hrs, ten hrs a week for 4 weeks. It gives you skills to help as a guiding light, supporting the women and children through a very emotionally insecure, even frightening stage in their lives, while the staff counselors work closely with each family group of women and children. Empowerhouse provides advocates for their clients, empowering victims of domestic violence and their children to believe in themselves and build new lives with dignity, respect, safety and hope.They provide advocates in hospitals and courts, they have fund raising events throughout the year including a golf tournament in the fall, Empty Bowl in the winter, and Night of One Thousand Pies, in the summer. We in our town are grateful to Ethel, another inspiring Fredericksburger, working behind the scenes in our Homeplace. With Empowerhouse, she helps to create light for those in need, our children, shining a beacon of hope along the river in our little corner of the world, Fredericksburg,Virginia. Empowerhouse provides confidential domestic violence assistence in the city of Fredericksburg, the counties of Stafford, King George, Spotsylvania and Caroline. They have 24 hr. a day hotline. For more info on Empowerhouse, go to empowerhouseva.org or call 373-9372 Glorious weather, time to walk or ride the beautiful streets and trails of our Homeplace. Take a copy of Front Porch, a blanket and sit by the rivah, reading about your friends and neighbors. Georgia lives downtown, in her old cottage, near her family, surrounded by lovely neighbors

“Every so often a disappearance is in order. A vanishing. A checking out. An indeterminate period of unavailability. Each person, each sane person, maintains a refuge, or series of refuges, for this purpose. A place, or places, where they can, figuratively if not literally, suspend their membership in the human race.” ~John Murray Life is hard. I’ve been facing some tough times lately, still related to the freaky fall I took on Mother’s Day this year. One thing leads to another thing, and on, and on, and on. It is annoying, and daunting, and sometimes causes despair. But here is something I know: You can take a time out. Check out for a little while. It’s ok. Everything will be there when you get back. So it is that I’m making some recommendations to you today. When you find yourself in need of a break, take one.Whether it is for five minutes, five hours, or five days, just take it – it is yours. If not now, when? Go for a drive. In Fredericksburg, River Road is beautiful this time of year, as are all of her parks, with the October leaves in full symphony. Take a day trip and drive to Mount Vernon, walk the grounds, and sit by the river for a while. Go to Gari Melcher’s historic home, sit on the hill, and view the River from the vista that he found inspiring. Go for a walk. Even if it is just in the neighborhood. Walk with a purpose. The purpose is to see something beautiful with every step. Maybe it is a door, the exact shade you’d like to paint yours. Maybe it is an especially beautiful flower. Just look, for beauty is everywhere.

Listen to the sounds around you. What do you hear? What haven’t you heard before? Explore it – learn what it is, where it is coming from. We have a beautiful church in our area with carillon bells that play every hour – a different tune at different times, and I like to listen for them, get lost in the melody, try to think of its name, and hum along. If you can’t get outside (or, even if you can), lose yourself in a book Read it while reclining. Read it while in the tub. Read it wherever. But put the phone on silent while you do so. Better yet, just turn it, and all electronic devices, off. Imagine you’re on a plane and for some reason or other cannot be “plugged in.” I’ll end this piece, as I started, with the quote from John Murray. Read it, let it sink in, and then seek your refuge. “Every so often a disappearance is in order. A vanishing. A checking out. An indeterminate period of unavailability. Each person, each sane person, maintains a refuge, or series of refuges, for this purpose. A place, or places, where they can, figuratively if not literally, suspend their membership in the human race.”

Jo Loving is taking a break this evening, sitting on the porch, listening to tree frogs, crickets, a very large and loud bullfrog, and birds. The dark evening sky is full of stars, and she is grateful. For this break. For these moments. For this life in all its frustrating glory.

If you have a little more time, go canoeing, kayaking, camping, and/or fishing. Leave your phone behind for awhile. You don’t have to leave it forever, but how about picking up that camera that has been languishing since you got your smart phone and take it with you. Photograph leaves, trees, birds, flowers, butterflies, rocks, people, whatever takes you outside of yourself. Listen to yourself breathe. Really. You don’t have to take yoga to do this, although it wouldn’t be a bad idea. You breathe all the time. So listen.

front porch fredericksburg

October 2016

Preston Thayer

Fredericksburg Sketches A visual Celebration of our community

Opens Este Lecture Series

By Casey Alan Shaw

by Ashley Bevilacqua Anglin

FXBG’ERS

606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg 373-7847 www.gemstonecreations.org

October 2016

Front porch fredericksburg

Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesdays until 6:30 and by appointment

Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged

By Jo Loving

by georgia Lee Strentz

Ashley Bevilacqua Anglin is Fredericksburg-Este Association Board of Directors, Communications Chair

Frontporchfredericksburg.com FB@FrontPorch Magazine

an now, a word from our sponor

ETHEL HELLMAN

"Not to hurt brethren is our first duty to them, but to stop there is not enough. We have a higher mission, to be of service to them wherever they require it." ~St, Francis of Assisi

SKETCH #23: St. George’s

From My Porch

Supporting All Things Local Since 1997

front porch fredericksburg

October 2016