contents
closeups
18
history’s stories.: religious freedom monument our heritage: venerable
19
It’s all energy: eem for your eyes renew: wayne whitley, dds
20
Senior Care: life review
21
emancipated patients: nurse practitioners mind your mind: if i die before i wake
23
what a community nurse does
24
art in the ‘burg: wayne’s world annual bsg all-member show
25
STORIES OF FREDERICKSBURg mYSTERY hOUSE
porch talk
26
white like me....the film
27
rocky horror picture show east meets west: art of hsi-mei
.
5
65 years creating art ...John Wayne Edwards
10
celebration of a life well-lived ...William “bill” carter
22
gray dog yoga bobbi stoakes
22
28
companions: voices for animals
3
Visual Aspect of History: John Cummings
29
cancer journal: trail or trial
4
on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages
30
fredericksburg sketches
31
6
Master Gardeners: yum’s the word
from my porch fxbgers: jan swager
7
On the trails:: 61 going on 16, jim stone
.8
I have a friend: James “the kid”
9
honeybunny totes handcrafted in fxbg
11
Poetryman: Poem for ella
12
Spirits: bourbon cocktails
13
season’s bounty: century farm recipes
14
cooking with kyle: pistachio salmon
15
everything greens: herbal arts collective
16-17
Calendar of events
visual aspect of history by Dawn WHITMORE
26
...And more! 11 light up the power plant...awe-inspiring show
21
26
on stage: joyce dewitt @riverside center
29
spring arbor: technology for seniors
Cover: “Grinning Jack” by David C.Kennedy
2
October 2017
Front porch fredericksburg
John Cummings John Cummings grew up in a home with illustrated history books, which included visiting nearby battlefields, historic homes and museums with his parents. Therefore, being surrounded by history in the Fredericksburg region is a good fit for this author of three published books on Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania history. . “Immersing myself into the visual aspect of history,” states Cummings, “I’ve always had an attachment to structures and landscape, but interestingly free of the hagiography towards those who lived there.” Born in Northern Virginia to a blue collar, working class family, Cummings would be a loss prevention auditor for a major retailer in the D.C. area before his move to Spotsylvania in 1999. When asked about his favorite time period to research, Cummings replies “The Victorian era, but there is also a
photography, and comparing images of people in their environment then, to how it exists today,” expounds Cummings, “I look at things as though in a time machine.” When looking upon photographs of homes in the early 1900’s of Fredericksburg and then to see the 2017 photo of a parking lot can be saddening at times. Yet, Cummings wants people to comprehend “the passage of time and what remains.” Cummings succinctly states, “They were there and now they are gone.” What a simple, yet almost philosophical statement, about the people and the places they inhabited In our days of wrestling with 914 Barton Street, from “Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania aspects of our Through Time” by John Cummings history, it is imperative to have strong interest in the 18th as well. It all history books. I, for one, am thankful runs together after, all. It all goes back Cummings has manuscripts in to my exposure to history as a child. It’s development and how he shares ‘his time a fascination that is hard to explain. It’s machine’ view. just there.” “Fredericksburg and Cummings latest offering is Spotsylvania Through Time” can be “Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania found locally and online. Through Time.” The book is a photographic journey then and now. He is Dawn Whitmore is a landscape intrigued and attracted by the aspect of photographer and writer who lives in space and time. Spotsylvania. Visit her on FB: “I am enthralled with the facebook.com/dewphotographypage or environments people occupied, the sites website at www.dewphotographyva.com of their daily life, full of the emotions of birth, school, work, death. With
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
3
contents
closeups
18
history’s stories.: religious freedom monument our heritage: venerable
19
It’s all energy: eem for your eyes renew: wayne whitley, dds
20
Senior Care: life review
21
emancipated patients: nurse practitioners mind your mind: if i die before i wake
23
what a community nurse does
24
art in the ‘burg: wayne’s world annual bsg all-member show
25
STORIES OF FREDERICKSBURg mYSTERY hOUSE
porch talk
26
white like me....the film
27
rocky horror picture show east meets west: art of hsi-mei
.
5
65 years creating art ...John Wayne Edwards
10
celebration of a life well-lived ...William “bill” carter
22
gray dog yoga bobbi stoakes
22
28
companions: voices for animals
3
Visual Aspect of History: John Cummings
29
cancer journal: trail or trial
4
on the porch...life in fredericksburg Messages
30
fredericksburg sketches
31
6
Master Gardeners: yum’s the word
from my porch fxbgers: jan swager
7
On the trails:: 61 going on 16, jim stone
.8
I have a friend: James “the kid”
9
honeybunny totes handcrafted in fxbg
11
Poetryman: Poem for ella
12
Spirits: bourbon cocktails
13
season’s bounty: century farm recipes
14
cooking with kyle: pistachio salmon
15
everything greens: herbal arts collective
16-17
Calendar of events
visual aspect of history by Dawn WHITMORE
26
...And more! 11 light up the power plant...awe-inspiring show
21
26
on stage: joyce dewitt @riverside center
29
spring arbor: technology for seniors
Cover: “Grinning Jack” by David C.Kennedy
2
October 2017
Front porch fredericksburg
John Cummings John Cummings grew up in a home with illustrated history books, which included visiting nearby battlefields, historic homes and museums with his parents. Therefore, being surrounded by history in the Fredericksburg region is a good fit for this author of three published books on Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania history. . “Immersing myself into the visual aspect of history,” states Cummings, “I’ve always had an attachment to structures and landscape, but interestingly free of the hagiography towards those who lived there.” Born in Northern Virginia to a blue collar, working class family, Cummings would be a loss prevention auditor for a major retailer in the D.C. area before his move to Spotsylvania in 1999. When asked about his favorite time period to research, Cummings replies “The Victorian era, but there is also a
photography, and comparing images of people in their environment then, to how it exists today,” expounds Cummings, “I look at things as though in a time machine.” When looking upon photographs of homes in the early 1900’s of Fredericksburg and then to see the 2017 photo of a parking lot can be saddening at times. Yet, Cummings wants people to comprehend “the passage of time and what remains.” Cummings succinctly states, “They were there and now they are gone.” What a simple, yet almost philosophical statement, about the people and the places they inhabited In our days of wrestling with 914 Barton Street, from “Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania aspects of our Through Time” by John Cummings history, it is imperative to have strong interest in the 18th as well. It all history books. I, for one, am thankful runs together after, all. It all goes back Cummings has manuscripts in to my exposure to history as a child. It’s development and how he shares ‘his time a fascination that is hard to explain. It’s machine’ view. just there.” “Fredericksburg and Cummings latest offering is Spotsylvania Through Time” can be “Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania found locally and online. Through Time.” The book is a photographic journey then and now. He is Dawn Whitmore is a landscape intrigued and attracted by the aspect of photographer and writer who lives in space and time. Spotsylvania. Visit her on FB: “I am enthralled with the facebook.com/dewphotographypage or environments people occupied, the sites website at www.dewphotographyva.com of their daily life, full of the emotions of birth, school, work, death. With
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
3
Kathyrn Willis
ON THE PORCH Guest Porch Editorial
Contributing Writers & Artists Candice Armstrong Laurie Black Kevin Brown Collette Caprara Christina Ferber K. Jeanne Frazer Joan M. Geisler Nigel Haarstad Karl Karch Jo Loving Patrick Neustatter M.L. Powers Wayne Russell Casey Alan Shaw Meg Snead Georgia Strentz Christine Thompson Dawn Whitmore Tina Will David Wilson
A.E.Bayne Kathie Bramlette Sarah Chapin Barbara Deal Frank Fratoe Rich Gaudio Alexis Grogan Ralph “Tuffy”Hicks David C. Kennedy Vanessa Moncure Eileen Owen John Reifenberg Suzanne Scherr Patricia Smith Bobbi Stoakes James Kyle Synder Rm Vining Peggy Wickham Katrida Williams Kathyrn Willis Norma Woodward
Front Porch Fredericksburg is a free circulation magazine published monthly by Olde Towne Publishing Co. Virginia Bigenwald Grogan, Publisher. The mission of Front Porch Fredericksburg is to connect the diverse citizenry of Fredericksburg with lively features and informative columns of interest to our community’s greatest resource, its people. Messages from our readers are welcome. All submissions must be received by e-mail by the 19th of the month preceding publication. Writers / Artists / Photographers are welcome to request Guidelines and query the Publisher by e-mail. Front Porch Fredericksburg PO Box 9203 Fredericksburg, VA 22403 Ad Sales: E-Mail: frntprch@aol.com Web Site: www.frontporchfredericksburg.com Facebook: @Front Porch Fredericksburg
The opinions expressed in Front Porch Fredericksburg are those of the contributing writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Front Porch Fredericksburg or its advertisers. Copyright 2017 Olde Towne Publishing Co. All rights reserved.
4
Over 65 Years Creating Art
October 2017
John Wayne Edwards
my sense of place
By Ralph “tuffy” hicks
BY kathryn willis In my kitchen, there is an open wall rack that holds sixteen coffee mugs. They come from art museums, from architectural sites, from cities that I have loved. I have been building this collection for decades. My first cup was purchased about 1987 on a trip to Winterthur. I soon became aware that this was my go-to mug. Drinking from it, I recalled discoveries that re-appeared each time my hands encircled its sturdy roundness. Choosing my coffee mug has now become my private morning ritual. Early in the day, low eastern sun streaming into the kitchen, I brew my aromatic fair-trade coffee in a French press. Standing in front of my mugs, I ponder: “Where do I want to go this morning?” I anxiously await that first sip of rich, dark coffee, and am impatient for it. So, choosing that mug also has a built-in self-discipline. Aesthetically, their designs vary greatly. One mug is from the Seattle Art Museum, where the First Nations carvings are defined by graphic patterns. That cup, rounded and thick, reflects those patters— in red, on a field of black. The mug from the Gaudi House Museum in Barcelona is straight-sided white, with a gilded handle that is modeled from the grip of one of the workers who helped craft the architectural masterpiece. The mug from Vienna is wrapped in the splendor of Klimt’s “The Kiss”—magnificent in gilded, jeweled elegance. On and on, their faces line up like stories on a shelf, each speaking of wonderful places. And every morning, I choose where I want to go. These mugs and memories are extensions of my inner life. I am a cultural tourist. I build on each arts experience by referencing all those that have come before. But while I love to discover the arts, architecture, countryside, and cityscapes of places far away, there is, for
me, no place like home. I recently got a zippy blue convertible, whom I have named Isadora. In these early fall days, she and I have covered beaten paths around this place that I love. She and friends, with top down, deliciously drove to Fairview Beach for mid-day seafood and a beer on the deck. We’ve gone to Carl’s for a strawberry sugar cone, neon loops of light creating that well-loved evening ambiance as we tonguechased the melting streams of deliciousness racing to the tiny point. We’ve driven down Princess Anne, catching the busy sidewalk scene at Hyperion, and the timeless, quiet spire of St. George’s, commanding the sky. It’s the fast way to “shelf read” these particular places that I love. I also love to ride my bike—a decades-old, 21-speed Gary Fisher—also blue, but much more battered. Like the concept of “slow food,” time spent on my bike slows down the visual blur that whizzes past my eyes in Isadora. On Blue Lucy, I smell the newly shorn grass in the playing fields at Pratt Park, where I watched our boys kick soccer balls to both glory and defeat. I remember the madness of battle, the trenches and berms, now melting back to the earth, on Lee Drive. And I occasionally interrupt Scott Walker as he dramatically recounts the rich history of Chatham to eagerly listening visitors. I also love to walk—a lovely way to really slow down time. I have favorite trees, to whom I say hello. The noble catalpa at Chatham, bowed but still standing as witness. That magnificent sycamore, at the corner of Princess Anne and Amelia. Walking affords me the luxury of recording details of columns and cornices. Of observing the historic steps
messages
Our young Joe Young is a mighty, mighty superhero! (Mighty Joe Young, Riverfront Superhero, Sept, ‘17). Woodie Walker
Gorgeous Cover! (Sept ‘17, Betsy Glassie painting "Flowers in a Vase") Carol Tumbarello
Congratulations Peggy Findlay Wickham….beautiful article. (Art in the Burg, Exploring the Extra in Extraordinary", August 2017) Helen McCune Russell
Front porch fredericksburg
FOR's Riverfest was a beautiful event this year, meeting our goals to help the River. I'm sure that we sold out early because you published our headsup story in August. Thank you to you and the Front Porch readers for making it a success. Sincerely, "Lou" Gramann
The Fredericksburg area has a long history of a place with many talented artists. I have memories of many of them, some have been deceased for decades, however (Gary Melchers for example)there are more than a hundred that are active in the area. Some of the names are easy to recognize such as Johnson, Finnegan, Wegner, Pitzer, Chaves, Limbrick, Harris, Glassie, Satterthwaite, Campbell etc., the list is long.
and upward-reaching bronze hands in the pocket park next to the Fredericksburg Area Museum. Of experiencing the frisson of horror that always overtakes me as I sidestep the battered Slave Block— diverting my step, and demanding that I remember, and regret. Moment by moment, year after year, these experiences have built up in tiny sparkling specifics, connected not chronologically, but by association, swirling in unconscious, shimmering magic. Those time-woven threads of the familiar help weave my inner joy. Like those sweet morning moments when I have the luxury of choosing my cup, when I travel through my town, these familiar sites shine, and make me smile. That is my sense of place. I belong here. And happily so, as I read my Front Porch from cover to cover. Kathryn Willis, with husband Chip above, reads (and muses) daily on her treesheltered screen porch in southern Stafford County. Thank you for your complimentary article on Agora Downtown in the most recent issue of the Front Porch. We always enjoy reading the Front Porch and were honored to be a part of it MJ Stone
NOTE: Our apologies to Beverly Toves for inadvertently omitting her photo credit (Sister Act, Agora Downtown Coffee Shop)
“Alman’s” Over sixty-years ago there was an art exhibit in the lobby of Lafayette Elementary School. Lafayette School was in the building that is now the Rappahannock Regional Library located on Caroline Street. The exhibit of art had over fifty works by the same artist. The most unusual aspect of this display of art was that the Artist was six years of age, his name was, John Wayne Edwards. The FreeLance-S Star took notice of this event and ran a long article about John Wayne, along with his picture titled “One Man Show”. The writer went on to say that it will be interesting in the future to see if there will be other shows by the talented Mr. Edwards. John Wayne Edwards is still using those natural talents to work by putting Fredericksburg and area places of interest past and present on canvas. For the last sixty-three years he has painted many places in the area, some of which no longer exist as they were initially built or have been demolished for other modern uses. I recently met with him for early morning coffee at the Battlefield Restaurant. John Wayne is well known in
the community and on a first name basis with almost everyone he meets. Some of his close friends say that he does not look like an artist, my reply what does an artist look like? He does not have paint under his finger nails or on his clothing, however, he is a friendly man that makes you feel at ease. I asked him to start by telling me about his years after he graduated from James Monroe High School, as he sat under his latest painting of the Battlefield Restaurant the original on canvas that he donated to the business. He sat back in his chair with a smile and began his story. He joined the United States Air Force for four years and returned to Fredericksburg where he became employed with Dowling Commercial Sign company a job which allowed him to use his artistic ability in designing and creating free style outdoor signs which he continued until his retirement. John Wayne said the he was influenced in his early years by local artist such as Al Campbell a well-known artist and newspaper illustrator in Fredericksburg. Today, he mentioned that he admires the works of artist Cliff Satterthwaite and Bill Harris among others. He said that the artist Brothers Hildebrandt, whose works were fantasy and science fiction that appeared in many early comic books was always his favorite when he was growing up. He has been involved in the publishing of books, doing illustrations for a children’s book authored by the late Phil Heim. He has painted several portraits along with landscape scenes from many countries worldwide. I asked him of all the local paintings he had painted over the years, which one is his favorite. I was thinking maybe he would say Eddie Mack’s or Carl’s Frozen Custard. John Wayne was looking at his latest work Battlefield Restaurant, as he said, “I think that painting would be Fairview Beach. The original of the painting on canvas he normally sells and makes prints of the others, usually onehundred or less. John Wayne is well known for his musical ability that began in his teens and can play several instruments including the piano. He is a member of the “Sons of the
Beach” band that is led by Steve Jarrell who recently returned to the Fredericksburg area after being in a successful music business in Nashville, Tennessee for many years. John Wayne plays lead guitar with the band which is popular in Fredericksburg and other states as far south as Florida. This talented artist and musician shows no signs of slowing down as he has a Facebook page titled: “You Probably from Fredericksburg If”. The Facebook site has a following near 15,000 and is growing. He and his wife Marcia reside in Stafford County and enjoy the many friends they have in the area. We should be pleased that we have John Wayne Edwards to illustrate what we have past and present on canvas
“Carl’s” to remember FOREVER. Tuffy Hicks brings us History’s Stories (pg. 18) monthly and is a well-known FXBG community member as well!
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
5
Kathyrn Willis
ON THE PORCH Guest Porch Editorial
Contributing Writers & Artists Candice Armstrong Laurie Black Kevin Brown Collette Caprara Christina Ferber K. Jeanne Frazer Joan M. Geisler Nigel Haarstad Karl Karch Jo Loving Patrick Neustatter M.L. Powers Wayne Russell Casey Alan Shaw Meg Snead Georgia Strentz Christine Thompson Dawn Whitmore Tina Will David Wilson
A.E.Bayne Kathie Bramlette Sarah Chapin Barbara Deal Frank Fratoe Rich Gaudio Alexis Grogan Ralph “Tuffy”Hicks David C. Kennedy Vanessa Moncure Eileen Owen John Reifenberg Suzanne Scherr Patricia Smith Bobbi Stoakes James Kyle Synder Rm Vining Peggy Wickham Katrida Williams Kathyrn Willis Norma Woodward
Front Porch Fredericksburg is a free circulation magazine published monthly by Olde Towne Publishing Co. Virginia Bigenwald Grogan, Publisher. The mission of Front Porch Fredericksburg is to connect the diverse citizenry of Fredericksburg with lively features and informative columns of interest to our community’s greatest resource, its people. Messages from our readers are welcome. All submissions must be received by e-mail by the 19th of the month preceding publication. Writers / Artists / Photographers are welcome to request Guidelines and query the Publisher by e-mail. Front Porch Fredericksburg PO Box 9203 Fredericksburg, VA 22403 Ad Sales: E-Mail: frntprch@aol.com Web Site: www.frontporchfredericksburg.com Facebook: @Front Porch Fredericksburg
The opinions expressed in Front Porch Fredericksburg are those of the contributing writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Front Porch Fredericksburg or its advertisers. Copyright 2017 Olde Towne Publishing Co. All rights reserved.
4
Over 65 Years Creating Art
October 2017
John Wayne Edwards
my sense of place
By Ralph “tuffy” hicks
BY kathryn willis In my kitchen, there is an open wall rack that holds sixteen coffee mugs. They come from art museums, from architectural sites, from cities that I have loved. I have been building this collection for decades. My first cup was purchased about 1987 on a trip to Winterthur. I soon became aware that this was my go-to mug. Drinking from it, I recalled discoveries that re-appeared each time my hands encircled its sturdy roundness. Choosing my coffee mug has now become my private morning ritual. Early in the day, low eastern sun streaming into the kitchen, I brew my aromatic fair-trade coffee in a French press. Standing in front of my mugs, I ponder: “Where do I want to go this morning?” I anxiously await that first sip of rich, dark coffee, and am impatient for it. So, choosing that mug also has a built-in self-discipline. Aesthetically, their designs vary greatly. One mug is from the Seattle Art Museum, where the First Nations carvings are defined by graphic patterns. That cup, rounded and thick, reflects those patters— in red, on a field of black. The mug from the Gaudi House Museum in Barcelona is straight-sided white, with a gilded handle that is modeled from the grip of one of the workers who helped craft the architectural masterpiece. The mug from Vienna is wrapped in the splendor of Klimt’s “The Kiss”—magnificent in gilded, jeweled elegance. On and on, their faces line up like stories on a shelf, each speaking of wonderful places. And every morning, I choose where I want to go. These mugs and memories are extensions of my inner life. I am a cultural tourist. I build on each arts experience by referencing all those that have come before. But while I love to discover the arts, architecture, countryside, and cityscapes of places far away, there is, for
me, no place like home. I recently got a zippy blue convertible, whom I have named Isadora. In these early fall days, she and I have covered beaten paths around this place that I love. She and friends, with top down, deliciously drove to Fairview Beach for mid-day seafood and a beer on the deck. We’ve gone to Carl’s for a strawberry sugar cone, neon loops of light creating that well-loved evening ambiance as we tonguechased the melting streams of deliciousness racing to the tiny point. We’ve driven down Princess Anne, catching the busy sidewalk scene at Hyperion, and the timeless, quiet spire of St. George’s, commanding the sky. It’s the fast way to “shelf read” these particular places that I love. I also love to ride my bike—a decades-old, 21-speed Gary Fisher—also blue, but much more battered. Like the concept of “slow food,” time spent on my bike slows down the visual blur that whizzes past my eyes in Isadora. On Blue Lucy, I smell the newly shorn grass in the playing fields at Pratt Park, where I watched our boys kick soccer balls to both glory and defeat. I remember the madness of battle, the trenches and berms, now melting back to the earth, on Lee Drive. And I occasionally interrupt Scott Walker as he dramatically recounts the rich history of Chatham to eagerly listening visitors. I also love to walk—a lovely way to really slow down time. I have favorite trees, to whom I say hello. The noble catalpa at Chatham, bowed but still standing as witness. That magnificent sycamore, at the corner of Princess Anne and Amelia. Walking affords me the luxury of recording details of columns and cornices. Of observing the historic steps
messages
Our young Joe Young is a mighty, mighty superhero! (Mighty Joe Young, Riverfront Superhero, Sept, ‘17). Woodie Walker
Gorgeous Cover! (Sept ‘17, Betsy Glassie painting "Flowers in a Vase") Carol Tumbarello
Congratulations Peggy Findlay Wickham….beautiful article. (Art in the Burg, Exploring the Extra in Extraordinary", August 2017) Helen McCune Russell
Front porch fredericksburg
FOR's Riverfest was a beautiful event this year, meeting our goals to help the River. I'm sure that we sold out early because you published our headsup story in August. Thank you to you and the Front Porch readers for making it a success. Sincerely, "Lou" Gramann
The Fredericksburg area has a long history of a place with many talented artists. I have memories of many of them, some have been deceased for decades, however (Gary Melchers for example)there are more than a hundred that are active in the area. Some of the names are easy to recognize such as Johnson, Finnegan, Wegner, Pitzer, Chaves, Limbrick, Harris, Glassie, Satterthwaite, Campbell etc., the list is long.
and upward-reaching bronze hands in the pocket park next to the Fredericksburg Area Museum. Of experiencing the frisson of horror that always overtakes me as I sidestep the battered Slave Block— diverting my step, and demanding that I remember, and regret. Moment by moment, year after year, these experiences have built up in tiny sparkling specifics, connected not chronologically, but by association, swirling in unconscious, shimmering magic. Those time-woven threads of the familiar help weave my inner joy. Like those sweet morning moments when I have the luxury of choosing my cup, when I travel through my town, these familiar sites shine, and make me smile. That is my sense of place. I belong here. And happily so, as I read my Front Porch from cover to cover. Kathryn Willis, with husband Chip above, reads (and muses) daily on her treesheltered screen porch in southern Stafford County. Thank you for your complimentary article on Agora Downtown in the most recent issue of the Front Porch. We always enjoy reading the Front Porch and were honored to be a part of it MJ Stone
NOTE: Our apologies to Beverly Toves for inadvertently omitting her photo credit (Sister Act, Agora Downtown Coffee Shop)
“Alman’s” Over sixty-years ago there was an art exhibit in the lobby of Lafayette Elementary School. Lafayette School was in the building that is now the Rappahannock Regional Library located on Caroline Street. The exhibit of art had over fifty works by the same artist. The most unusual aspect of this display of art was that the Artist was six years of age, his name was, John Wayne Edwards. The FreeLance-S Star took notice of this event and ran a long article about John Wayne, along with his picture titled “One Man Show”. The writer went on to say that it will be interesting in the future to see if there will be other shows by the talented Mr. Edwards. John Wayne Edwards is still using those natural talents to work by putting Fredericksburg and area places of interest past and present on canvas. For the last sixty-three years he has painted many places in the area, some of which no longer exist as they were initially built or have been demolished for other modern uses. I recently met with him for early morning coffee at the Battlefield Restaurant. John Wayne is well known in
the community and on a first name basis with almost everyone he meets. Some of his close friends say that he does not look like an artist, my reply what does an artist look like? He does not have paint under his finger nails or on his clothing, however, he is a friendly man that makes you feel at ease. I asked him to start by telling me about his years after he graduated from James Monroe High School, as he sat under his latest painting of the Battlefield Restaurant the original on canvas that he donated to the business. He sat back in his chair with a smile and began his story. He joined the United States Air Force for four years and returned to Fredericksburg where he became employed with Dowling Commercial Sign company a job which allowed him to use his artistic ability in designing and creating free style outdoor signs which he continued until his retirement. John Wayne said the he was influenced in his early years by local artist such as Al Campbell a well-known artist and newspaper illustrator in Fredericksburg. Today, he mentioned that he admires the works of artist Cliff Satterthwaite and Bill Harris among others. He said that the artist Brothers Hildebrandt, whose works were fantasy and science fiction that appeared in many early comic books was always his favorite when he was growing up. He has been involved in the publishing of books, doing illustrations for a children’s book authored by the late Phil Heim. He has painted several portraits along with landscape scenes from many countries worldwide. I asked him of all the local paintings he had painted over the years, which one is his favorite. I was thinking maybe he would say Eddie Mack’s or Carl’s Frozen Custard. John Wayne was looking at his latest work Battlefield Restaurant, as he said, “I think that painting would be Fairview Beach. The original of the painting on canvas he normally sells and makes prints of the others, usually onehundred or less. John Wayne is well known for his musical ability that began in his teens and can play several instruments including the piano. He is a member of the “Sons of the
Beach” band that is led by Steve Jarrell who recently returned to the Fredericksburg area after being in a successful music business in Nashville, Tennessee for many years. John Wayne plays lead guitar with the band which is popular in Fredericksburg and other states as far south as Florida. This talented artist and musician shows no signs of slowing down as he has a Facebook page titled: “You Probably from Fredericksburg If”. The Facebook site has a following near 15,000 and is growing. He and his wife Marcia reside in Stafford County and enjoy the many friends they have in the area. We should be pleased that we have John Wayne Edwards to illustrate what we have past and present on canvas
“Carl’s” to remember FOREVER. Tuffy Hicks brings us History’s Stories (pg. 18) monthly and is a well-known FXBG community member as well!
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
5
How Does A Master Gardener Grow?
On the Trails
Large or Small, I Sell Them All! Dreaming of Fabulous City Living? Let’s Make It Happen!
Spiritual Supplies for Spiritual People Raw and Tumbled Stones Energy and Healing Wands Herbs, Incense and Resin Books, Candles Salt Therapy Room
yum’s the word SUZY STONE
By Tina Will
Mobile:540.847.0630 Office: 540-898-2900 suzystone22@gmail.com C21redwood.com
61 going on 16 By Kevin Brown
AND SO MUCH MORE!
The Shoppes @ 914 Caroline 540.273.2778
THE
FREDERICKSBURG LAMP Only Available At 601 LAFAYETTE BLVD
roxburyfarmgarden.com MAIN: (540) 373-9124 NURSERY: (540) 371-8802
The Copper Shop 371-4455
Gwen Pote & Kathy Hobby teaching at the Stafford Juction Day Camp Another young convert to the flavor of a freshly grown tomato! It’s not in our Master Gardener (MG) manual, but it’s certainly one of our greatest rewards. And so it happened again, not surprising really, at the Stafford Junction Day Camp this past July where over 100 children enjoyed the experiences of gardening and reaping tasty rewards. Stafford Junction, a non-profit on Truslow Road, offers an annual summer camp to children from low income neighborhoods, and it partners with local businesses, agencies, and churches for the resources it needs. This past summer Stafford Junction partnered with Virginia Cooperative Extension to offer gardening programs to show children that fresh food isn’t hard to grow, tastes great, and rewards each of us with a healthier body. Administrative Horticultural Technician Gwen Pote, and Master Gardeners James Alderman, Kathy Hobby, and Susan Gingrich worked together to design gardening activities and games to instruct and inspire elementary, middle, and high school aged kids. VCE’s Food and Consumer Services SNAP-E Ed (FCS) Representative Katrida Williams and VCE’s FCS Representative, April Payne also offered classes on the importance of making good nutritional choices, and getting exercise. Most kids enjoy playing in the dirt, but cultivating soil to grow lettuce and tomatoes for their own meals is immediately more rewarding… “We grew that?” “I want a slice of tomato on my sandwich!”, and “Yum!”, were typical reactions from many of the children. Games and interactive techniques showed how bees tell each other where the pollen
6
October 2017
is, and tested the children’s senses of taste and smell on mint, chives, onions, and lavender. MG Susan Gingrich brought worm bins and talked about benefits of worms in gardens. The children were also treated to a visit to Stafford Nursery just a mile or so down the road. Stafford Nursery donated herbs and sunflowers that the children were able to plant in small containers and take home. The weather was hot, so watering was an easy task to delegate, and the kids all helped with harvesting and weeding. It was easy to see that they loved exploring the garden, and learning about all the plants being grown. Additional teaching times centered on several things: what’s in the garden, how to use garden tools safely, the need for pollinators, insects good and bad, and the benefits of worms and compost. VCE Agent Guy Mussey brought his marvelous insect and hissing cockroach collection one day which never fails to teach, wow, and entertain kids of all ages. New possibilities often inspire us and spur us to try something new on our own. Campers learned that it doesn’t take a lot of space to grow good food, that worms, bees, butterflies, and other insects are critical to a successful garden, and that a successful garden is fun to work in. Lynn Stafford Junction Manager, Hamilton, knows that some of them will follow through and start their own gardens.
Tina Will has volunteered with MGACRA for 13 years and lives near Ferry Farm in Stafford County. Photo By Katrida Williams
Front porch fredericksburg
We Have All Your Gardening Needs Since 1929 Come Shop With Us!
1707R Princess Anne
Behind Silk Mill Like Us on facebook
It is often said that if you live in the Fredericksburg area, you probably know someone who has been married, buried or baptized by Jim Stone, the Executive Pastor at Spotswood Baptist Church. After 31 years, Jim knows just about everyone. He’s also a fun-loving fitness fanatic. It’s also been said that Pastor Stone is the oldest 16-year-old you’ll ever know. Jim says “The reason I exercise is to be physically capable of an active lifestyle. As an avid kayaker, I’ve rowed the Rappahannock River between Motts Run and Fredericksburg too many times to count. I begged my wife Elaine to move to a home on the river for years. We finally found a lovely place on Riverside Drive earlier this year - across from the River Heritage Trail, Ficklen Island, and the majestic Falls of the Rappahannock. Now that we live “on the Rivah”, I’m getting into river tubing down the Falls, which is a simple walk across the street to enjoy. Besides our own family, a large group of youth from the church regularly come by the house to borrow tubes and get out on the river. When not out on the water, I enjoy early morning runs through the city of Fredericksburg and surrounding area. Nowadays, my routine is to head over to the Massad YMCA at 5 AM three times a week for a weight workout, followed by a long run. A highlight of these runs along Ferry my loop, that includes the Belmont-F Farm and River Heritage Trails, is the iconic crossing at the Chatham Bridge over the Rappahannock River going into historic downtown Fredericksburg. Over many years of early morning jaunts along our city streets and trails, I never “run out” of awe-inspiring scenery.
I also enjoy bicycling at least once a week. For me, biking is more fun than exercise. I like to wake up early on Saturday mornings and ride 25-30 miles before anyone gets up. There is rarely anyone out on the road at that time so I feel like I have more freedom to ride wherever I want. Our trails are some of the best things the city has ever built. If use of the trails equals return on investment, the city is getting its money’s worth. Of course, there is always room for improvement. As the popularity of our trails expands in the next few years, we will need more restroom facilities, water fountains, and trash cans. And there is a continuing challenge in encouraging river and trails users to clean up after themselves and their dogs. My wife and I have seen some incredible sights on our trails adventures. One evening while walking on the River Heritage Trail, my wife and I saw a few deer swimming across the river towards Hunter’s Island. “ In conclusion, here is a parting thought from Pastor Jim. “There is a joke about a pastor who faked being sick on a Sunday morning. He had an amazing round of golf and even made a hole in one. But who could he tell? He couldn’t share the good news or he would be telling on himself. So remember, the fun of life – like experiencing our river and trails - is best enjoyed while sharing it with others.”
Kevin Brown is the administrator of the "On the Fredericksburg Va Trails" & the "FXBG City Council Public Forum" Facebook Group, a downtown resident & a Military Analyst for Segue Technologies
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
7
How Does A Master Gardener Grow?
On the Trails
Large or Small, I Sell Them All! Dreaming of Fabulous City Living? Let’s Make It Happen!
Spiritual Supplies for Spiritual People Raw and Tumbled Stones Energy and Healing Wands Herbs, Incense and Resin Books, Candles Salt Therapy Room
yum’s the word SUZY STONE
By Tina Will
Mobile:540.847.0630 Office: 540-898-2900 suzystone22@gmail.com C21redwood.com
61 going on 16 By Kevin Brown
AND SO MUCH MORE!
The Shoppes @ 914 Caroline 540.273.2778
THE
FREDERICKSBURG LAMP Only Available At 601 LAFAYETTE BLVD
roxburyfarmgarden.com MAIN: (540) 373-9124 NURSERY: (540) 371-8802
The Copper Shop 371-4455
Gwen Pote & Kathy Hobby teaching at the Stafford Juction Day Camp Another young convert to the flavor of a freshly grown tomato! It’s not in our Master Gardener (MG) manual, but it’s certainly one of our greatest rewards. And so it happened again, not surprising really, at the Stafford Junction Day Camp this past July where over 100 children enjoyed the experiences of gardening and reaping tasty rewards. Stafford Junction, a non-profit on Truslow Road, offers an annual summer camp to children from low income neighborhoods, and it partners with local businesses, agencies, and churches for the resources it needs. This past summer Stafford Junction partnered with Virginia Cooperative Extension to offer gardening programs to show children that fresh food isn’t hard to grow, tastes great, and rewards each of us with a healthier body. Administrative Horticultural Technician Gwen Pote, and Master Gardeners James Alderman, Kathy Hobby, and Susan Gingrich worked together to design gardening activities and games to instruct and inspire elementary, middle, and high school aged kids. VCE’s Food and Consumer Services SNAP-E Ed (FCS) Representative Katrida Williams and VCE’s FCS Representative, April Payne also offered classes on the importance of making good nutritional choices, and getting exercise. Most kids enjoy playing in the dirt, but cultivating soil to grow lettuce and tomatoes for their own meals is immediately more rewarding… “We grew that?” “I want a slice of tomato on my sandwich!”, and “Yum!”, were typical reactions from many of the children. Games and interactive techniques showed how bees tell each other where the pollen
6
October 2017
is, and tested the children’s senses of taste and smell on mint, chives, onions, and lavender. MG Susan Gingrich brought worm bins and talked about benefits of worms in gardens. The children were also treated to a visit to Stafford Nursery just a mile or so down the road. Stafford Nursery donated herbs and sunflowers that the children were able to plant in small containers and take home. The weather was hot, so watering was an easy task to delegate, and the kids all helped with harvesting and weeding. It was easy to see that they loved exploring the garden, and learning about all the plants being grown. Additional teaching times centered on several things: what’s in the garden, how to use garden tools safely, the need for pollinators, insects good and bad, and the benefits of worms and compost. VCE Agent Guy Mussey brought his marvelous insect and hissing cockroach collection one day which never fails to teach, wow, and entertain kids of all ages. New possibilities often inspire us and spur us to try something new on our own. Campers learned that it doesn’t take a lot of space to grow good food, that worms, bees, butterflies, and other insects are critical to a successful garden, and that a successful garden is fun to work in. Lynn Stafford Junction Manager, Hamilton, knows that some of them will follow through and start their own gardens.
Tina Will has volunteered with MGACRA for 13 years and lives near Ferry Farm in Stafford County. Photo By Katrida Williams
Front porch fredericksburg
We Have All Your Gardening Needs Since 1929 Come Shop With Us!
1707R Princess Anne
Behind Silk Mill Like Us on facebook
It is often said that if you live in the Fredericksburg area, you probably know someone who has been married, buried or baptized by Jim Stone, the Executive Pastor at Spotswood Baptist Church. After 31 years, Jim knows just about everyone. He’s also a fun-loving fitness fanatic. It’s also been said that Pastor Stone is the oldest 16-year-old you’ll ever know. Jim says “The reason I exercise is to be physically capable of an active lifestyle. As an avid kayaker, I’ve rowed the Rappahannock River between Motts Run and Fredericksburg too many times to count. I begged my wife Elaine to move to a home on the river for years. We finally found a lovely place on Riverside Drive earlier this year - across from the River Heritage Trail, Ficklen Island, and the majestic Falls of the Rappahannock. Now that we live “on the Rivah”, I’m getting into river tubing down the Falls, which is a simple walk across the street to enjoy. Besides our own family, a large group of youth from the church regularly come by the house to borrow tubes and get out on the river. When not out on the water, I enjoy early morning runs through the city of Fredericksburg and surrounding area. Nowadays, my routine is to head over to the Massad YMCA at 5 AM three times a week for a weight workout, followed by a long run. A highlight of these runs along Ferry my loop, that includes the Belmont-F Farm and River Heritage Trails, is the iconic crossing at the Chatham Bridge over the Rappahannock River going into historic downtown Fredericksburg. Over many years of early morning jaunts along our city streets and trails, I never “run out” of awe-inspiring scenery.
I also enjoy bicycling at least once a week. For me, biking is more fun than exercise. I like to wake up early on Saturday mornings and ride 25-30 miles before anyone gets up. There is rarely anyone out on the road at that time so I feel like I have more freedom to ride wherever I want. Our trails are some of the best things the city has ever built. If use of the trails equals return on investment, the city is getting its money’s worth. Of course, there is always room for improvement. As the popularity of our trails expands in the next few years, we will need more restroom facilities, water fountains, and trash cans. And there is a continuing challenge in encouraging river and trails users to clean up after themselves and their dogs. My wife and I have seen some incredible sights on our trails adventures. One evening while walking on the River Heritage Trail, my wife and I saw a few deer swimming across the river towards Hunter’s Island. “ In conclusion, here is a parting thought from Pastor Jim. “There is a joke about a pastor who faked being sick on a Sunday morning. He had an amazing round of golf and even made a hole in one. But who could he tell? He couldn’t share the good news or he would be telling on himself. So remember, the fun of life – like experiencing our river and trails - is best enjoyed while sharing it with others.”
Kevin Brown is the administrator of the "On the Fredericksburg Va Trails" & the "FXBG City Council Public Forum" Facebook Group, a downtown resident & a Military Analyst for Segue Technologies
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
7
“I Have A Friend”
HoneyBunny Totes
James “The kid”
Handcrafted in FXBG
By Laurie Black
By David Wilson
SIMMERED CIDER
James “The Kid” loves being around people, which is a challenge now that he is dependent on others to get around. So, when his daughter asked him earlier this year if he would be interested in the Senior Visitors Program, he agreed. Ted Brissey has worked with youth most of his life, including coaching various youth sports teams. Ted enjoys giving back to the community. However, as he got older he decided he would like to try working with seniors. He was trained to be a Senior Visitors volunteer in October of 2015. He has worked with a few different seniors, but in June, he was matched with “The Kid”. “The Kid” and Ted have already become friends in a short time. Ted says that one great thing about volunteering is that you get to hear about other people’s history – their life story. “The Kid” has had plenty to share with Ted. “The Kid” is proud of the fact he was born in 1916 and is still around. At 101 years old, he loves telling stories of the fantastic life he has lived. He shares letters with Ted which he writes to keep in touch with all the people that used to work for him. They love him and he says they all hold a special place in his heart. “The Kid” has also shared some
Supporting The Non-Profits Since 1997 8
October 2017
of his paintings with Ted. When asked about being an artist, “The Kid” explained that he has had three careers. His first was as a Theater Artist. He loved to go to the movies as a kid. This was in the 1920s. He didn’t have much money then, but he had a dog that looked like Rin Tin Tin. He would put a sign on the dog and go through the neighborhood advertising for the movies. This would get him into the movies for free. Later, that led him to a job in the art and sign department of the four theaters in Raleigh, North Carolina. Later in life, he went to work for The Union Building Circulation, a magazine circulation company. He travelled around the country selling subscriptions. Then in 1956 he developed a cleaner called “Sterling Magic” which is still made today. “The Kid” often tells Ted, “My life was so exciting – you just can’t believe it if you weren’t there. No one has had as good a life as me.” Ted says he would and does recommend the Senior Visitors Program to others. He enjoys the conversation, the friendship, and the opportunity to focus on others. James “The Kid” also had some advice to pass on: “Young people, do not try to do so much for yourself. Help others along the way and make great friends. Pray to the Lord every day that he will give you the ability to help others.” If you know a senior who could benefit from having a weekly, friendly visit OR if you would like to help others volunteer to visit a senior! Call the Senior Visitors Program at (540) 371-2704 or visit our website at mhafred.org. The Senior Visitors Program is a free community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg. Laurie Black is the Administrative Assistant for the Senior Visitors Program She can be reached at mhafaa@mhafred.org
Front porch fredericksburg
723 Caroline St
899.8077
Daily 10-5 5:30, Sunday 12-5 5
Cindy Wilson is a caring wife, mother of one, grandmother of 4, and with her hobby now she can add small business owner of HoneyBunny Totes LLC Cindy has always been the kind of person who puts everything into what she is working on whether it be working on the house her husband, built in the Fredericksburg suburbs, working in the yard, working with the grandkids, volunteering with the schools, volunteering with the Boy Scouts of America, sewing totes, she always does it with her heart.
Cindy has been selling her totes on Facebook, woman’s conventions, craft fairs, and even car shows. She has a few regular clients that purchase totes for gifts and she sends directly to the recipient. Honeybunny totes will make any custom request, your favorite, pet, hobby, sports team etc. If Cindy can locate the material pattern you request, she can make it. Honeybunny totes will also ship any order. She has added make- up bags with washable liners, and dog bandanas to her inventory. Cindy is introduced a new product this summer, the honeybunny duffle/yoga/gym tote. If you want a quality, handcrafted, local product, honeybunny totes has it.
Her husband jokes all the time, the next step is appearing on the hit TV show Shark Tank. Contact: email honeybunnytotes@verizon.net also on Facebook @HoneyBunnyTotes
When she purchased her first sewing machine she started sewing small things like tea wallets, little tissue holders, and then she learned how to sew bigger items like totes. The first tote she made was given to a friend for a birthday gift and the recipient raved about how well it was made and how much she loved it. Then she started making different colorful patterns, and her daughter, Melissa, told her she should post them on Facebook, Cindy started posting pictures of the totes, and she couldn’t believe all the like responses. Cindy always gets compliments from other seamstress who remark on how detailed her sewing is. Once she had a domain name she then took it to the next level and applied for a business license. Honeybunny totes LLC was officially started in July of 2016.
HoneyBunny Totes Upcoming Events Craig’s Baptist Church Harvest Festival/Craft Show Oct 7th from 10:00-3:00 pm Address: 14123 W Catharpin Road Spotsylvania VA
David Wilson is the proud husband of Cindy and a Senior Account Executiv for McCrea Equipment Company
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
9
“I Have A Friend”
HoneyBunny Totes
James “The kid”
Handcrafted in FXBG
By Laurie Black
By David Wilson
SIMMERED CIDER
James “The Kid” loves being around people, which is a challenge now that he is dependent on others to get around. So, when his daughter asked him earlier this year if he would be interested in the Senior Visitors Program, he agreed. Ted Brissey has worked with youth most of his life, including coaching various youth sports teams. Ted enjoys giving back to the community. However, as he got older he decided he would like to try working with seniors. He was trained to be a Senior Visitors volunteer in October of 2015. He has worked with a few different seniors, but in June, he was matched with “The Kid”. “The Kid” and Ted have already become friends in a short time. Ted says that one great thing about volunteering is that you get to hear about other people’s history – their life story. “The Kid” has had plenty to share with Ted. “The Kid” is proud of the fact he was born in 1916 and is still around. At 101 years old, he loves telling stories of the fantastic life he has lived. He shares letters with Ted which he writes to keep in touch with all the people that used to work for him. They love him and he says they all hold a special place in his heart. “The Kid” has also shared some
Supporting The Non-Profits Since 1997 8
October 2017
of his paintings with Ted. When asked about being an artist, “The Kid” explained that he has had three careers. His first was as a Theater Artist. He loved to go to the movies as a kid. This was in the 1920s. He didn’t have much money then, but he had a dog that looked like Rin Tin Tin. He would put a sign on the dog and go through the neighborhood advertising for the movies. This would get him into the movies for free. Later, that led him to a job in the art and sign department of the four theaters in Raleigh, North Carolina. Later in life, he went to work for The Union Building Circulation, a magazine circulation company. He travelled around the country selling subscriptions. Then in 1956 he developed a cleaner called “Sterling Magic” which is still made today. “The Kid” often tells Ted, “My life was so exciting – you just can’t believe it if you weren’t there. No one has had as good a life as me.” Ted says he would and does recommend the Senior Visitors Program to others. He enjoys the conversation, the friendship, and the opportunity to focus on others. James “The Kid” also had some advice to pass on: “Young people, do not try to do so much for yourself. Help others along the way and make great friends. Pray to the Lord every day that he will give you the ability to help others.” If you know a senior who could benefit from having a weekly, friendly visit OR if you would like to help others volunteer to visit a senior! Call the Senior Visitors Program at (540) 371-2704 or visit our website at mhafred.org. The Senior Visitors Program is a free community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg. Laurie Black is the Administrative Assistant for the Senior Visitors Program She can be reached at mhafaa@mhafred.org
Front porch fredericksburg
723 Caroline St
899.8077
Daily 10-5 5:30, Sunday 12-5 5
Cindy Wilson is a caring wife, mother of one, grandmother of 4, and with her hobby now she can add small business owner of HoneyBunny Totes LLC Cindy has always been the kind of person who puts everything into what she is working on whether it be working on the house her husband, built in the Fredericksburg suburbs, working in the yard, working with the grandkids, volunteering with the schools, volunteering with the Boy Scouts of America, sewing totes, she always does it with her heart.
Cindy has been selling her totes on Facebook, woman’s conventions, craft fairs, and even car shows. She has a few regular clients that purchase totes for gifts and she sends directly to the recipient. Honeybunny totes will make any custom request, your favorite, pet, hobby, sports team etc. If Cindy can locate the material pattern you request, she can make it. Honeybunny totes will also ship any order. She has added make- up bags with washable liners, and dog bandanas to her inventory. Cindy is introduced a new product this summer, the honeybunny duffle/yoga/gym tote. If you want a quality, handcrafted, local product, honeybunny totes has it.
Her husband jokes all the time, the next step is appearing on the hit TV show Shark Tank. Contact: email honeybunnytotes@verizon.net also on Facebook @HoneyBunnyTotes
When she purchased her first sewing machine she started sewing small things like tea wallets, little tissue holders, and then she learned how to sew bigger items like totes. The first tote she made was given to a friend for a birthday gift and the recipient raved about how well it was made and how much she loved it. Then she started making different colorful patterns, and her daughter, Melissa, told her she should post them on Facebook, Cindy started posting pictures of the totes, and she couldn’t believe all the like responses. Cindy always gets compliments from other seamstress who remark on how detailed her sewing is. Once she had a domain name she then took it to the next level and applied for a business license. Honeybunny totes LLC was officially started in July of 2016.
HoneyBunny Totes Upcoming Events Craig’s Baptist Church Harvest Festival/Craft Show Oct 7th from 10:00-3:00 pm Address: 14123 W Catharpin Road Spotsylvania VA
David Wilson is the proud husband of Cindy and a Senior Account Executiv for McCrea Equipment Company
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
9
Celebration of a Life Well-Lived William “Bill” Carter 7/14/1942 - 9/13-2017 May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand. ~ Irish Blessing
Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One
Jewell Wolterman 12225 Amos Lane, Ste 204 Fredericksburg, VA 22407 540-907-0574 www.elitetitleva.com jwolterman@elitetitleva.com
Wills and Trusts Provide for Incapacity Trusts for Minor Children Wealth Preservation Trusts Avoid Probate AhearnEstateLaw.com 10
October 2017
540/371-9890
Front porch fredericksburg
“Bill would have love this”, Rev Joe Hensley joked looking out over the filled- to- capacity St George Episcopal Church Memorial Service for William “Bill” Carter. ”It's like Christmas Day in here.” The crowd was gathered to celebrate the life of a man who touch so many with his love of life and people, his giving spirit and, his unending kindness. His concern for others continued in his death as he “Gave Life to Others” through organ donation Wherever and whenever Bill saw you, whether he was dining with friends, having coffee at Hyperion, or just walking a town street, he would stop and say, “How are YOU”. Yes the emphasis on you. He really did care how you were doing. Bill was a teacher, a counselor, a pastor, a singer, as well as a father and loving grandfather. He actively led many local support groups including Adult Children of Alcoholics and The Rappahannock Council on Domestic Violence. As a longtime member of St. George’s Episcopal Church, he served on the Vestry, participated in the choir, Stephen Ministries and the Celtic Service. As a classically trained vocalist, Bill sung in many vocal groups, including The Fredericksburg Singers, The Fredericksburg Chamber Chorale, Thomas Circle Singers, The Washington Chorus, The Choral Arts Society of Washington and finally, The City Choir of Washington.
Light Up the Power Plant! The community of fxbg at it’s finest THE POETRY MAN
BY Kevin Brown
- By Frank Fratoe
poem for ella (BORN
ONE YEAR AGO)
A birthright leaves no doubt that in you, my granddaughter, is the magic of the universe here from continuance of life following its own progression to render joy within you now.
Through his musical journey he also participated in operas, musicals and local theater groups. Traveling, experiencing new cultures and gastronomy led to his recent adventures in Este, Italy, with the Italian Sister City Program of Fredericksburg in which he was an active member Bill left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His warmth and generosity made others feel like family. With his giving spirit and always thinking of others, he created a scholarship program for James Monroe High School students attending Germanna Community College. Most importantly, he loved and adored his family and friends and enjoyed spending time with his daughters and grandsons. He will always be missed but will live on in our hearts forever God speed, Bill.
~VBG
If your heart joins your mind as the years anticipate hope then love and truth will mix creating a brand-new vision which can find paths unknown and lead us beyond the stars.
Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city. He has written poems from the heart for Front Porch for the past 9 years.
On 8 September 2017, the Embrey/Virginia Electric Power Company Plant in Fredericksburg VA came alive for the first time in over half a century in an awe-inspiring light and sound show. The idea for this event was sparked on a Friends of the Rappahannock-sponsored moonlight cruise earlier this summer, when the author of this article noticed how majestic the abandoned power plant appeared from the river, and experienced a vision of how it might look colorfully lit up at night. Well, after a few months of intense teamwork and coordination, the
“Light up the Power Plant!” event was held and appreciably experienced by hundreds of viewers on the river and ashore. This event showcased our mutually-supportive community of Fredericksburg at its finest. First, Ed Whelan, Inn at the Old Silk Mill owner who also owns the power plant, graciously allowed the building to be used for the event. Not only did Ed fund the event and provide it free to the public, he and his team also coordinated safety, parking, grounds preparation, and building access. Second, local DJ and radio personality Bill Carroll (Bill Carroll Entertainment) and his team designed and provided the show. Third, Friends of the Rappahannock (Woody Walker and team) and the Virginia Outdoor Center (Bill & Denise Mick and team) collaborated to provide kayaks and canoes on-site that allowed over 70 people to get out on the river and view the show from that amazing perspective. Fourth, local press and organizations to include the Free Lance Star (Amana Vicinanzo), B-101.5 (Ted Schubel), Front Porch Magazine Whurk (Virginia Grogan), Magazine (Seth Casana), Fredericksburg Main Street (Ann Glave), Economic Development & Tourism (Bill Freehling), and numerous other entities heavily advertised the event in print and on social media. Fifth, several local photographers to include Michele Phillips, Maks Jerndal, Norma Woodward, Sue Henderson, Daniel Poznanski, Nigel Harstaad, Stephen Collins, Brant Stephenson, and Joe Brooks (and his drone) came out and professionally memorialized the event (note, the best of their photos will be featured in large-sscale at a “Light Up the Power Plant” photography show at the Red Dragon Brewery during the month of October). Sixth, the Common Ground Church led by Pastor Gregg Jennings set up a table and provided the public with hot liquid
refreshments and snacks. And last but certainly not least, the Fredericksburg citizenry and guests came out and participated in droves, frolicking with family and friends, and paddling and dancing to the flashing glow of the light show. In summary, here is a behind-thescenes perspective from maestro Bill Carroll. “As this was a first time experiment, we didn’t know what to anticipate in terms of public expectations. Due to a limited budget, we were just going to provide some colored light sequences along with the
sound effects of a factory that could be enjoyed briefly. Well, once hundreds of people showed up and obviously wanted to stay and be entertained for 2 hours, I had to switch gears and turn it into a more energetic show - manually
changing how I controlled the light fixtures as well as playing partyatmosphere music. What a challenge, but it all worked out to be an EPIC event and the most entertaining light show Fredericksburg has ever seen. With the help of my amazing crew and everyone involved, we did it!!” Photos by Nigel Haartad Photography
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
11
Celebration of a Life Well-Lived William “Bill” Carter 7/14/1942 - 9/13-2017 May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand. ~ Irish Blessing
Where Customer Service and Title Insurance Become One
Jewell Wolterman 12225 Amos Lane, Ste 204 Fredericksburg, VA 22407 540-907-0574 www.elitetitleva.com jwolterman@elitetitleva.com
Wills and Trusts Provide for Incapacity Trusts for Minor Children Wealth Preservation Trusts Avoid Probate AhearnEstateLaw.com 10
October 2017
540/371-9890
Front porch fredericksburg
“Bill would have love this”, Rev Joe Hensley joked looking out over the filled- to- capacity St George Episcopal Church Memorial Service for William “Bill” Carter. ”It's like Christmas Day in here.” The crowd was gathered to celebrate the life of a man who touch so many with his love of life and people, his giving spirit and, his unending kindness. His concern for others continued in his death as he “Gave Life to Others” through organ donation Wherever and whenever Bill saw you, whether he was dining with friends, having coffee at Hyperion, or just walking a town street, he would stop and say, “How are YOU”. Yes the emphasis on you. He really did care how you were doing. Bill was a teacher, a counselor, a pastor, a singer, as well as a father and loving grandfather. He actively led many local support groups including Adult Children of Alcoholics and The Rappahannock Council on Domestic Violence. As a longtime member of St. George’s Episcopal Church, he served on the Vestry, participated in the choir, Stephen Ministries and the Celtic Service. As a classically trained vocalist, Bill sung in many vocal groups, including The Fredericksburg Singers, The Fredericksburg Chamber Chorale, Thomas Circle Singers, The Washington Chorus, The Choral Arts Society of Washington and finally, The City Choir of Washington.
Light Up the Power Plant! The community of fxbg at it’s finest THE POETRY MAN
BY Kevin Brown
- By Frank Fratoe
poem for ella (BORN
ONE YEAR AGO)
A birthright leaves no doubt that in you, my granddaughter, is the magic of the universe here from continuance of life following its own progression to render joy within you now.
Through his musical journey he also participated in operas, musicals and local theater groups. Traveling, experiencing new cultures and gastronomy led to his recent adventures in Este, Italy, with the Italian Sister City Program of Fredericksburg in which he was an active member Bill left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His warmth and generosity made others feel like family. With his giving spirit and always thinking of others, he created a scholarship program for James Monroe High School students attending Germanna Community College. Most importantly, he loved and adored his family and friends and enjoyed spending time with his daughters and grandsons. He will always be missed but will live on in our hearts forever God speed, Bill.
~VBG
If your heart joins your mind as the years anticipate hope then love and truth will mix creating a brand-new vision which can find paths unknown and lead us beyond the stars.
Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city. He has written poems from the heart for Front Porch for the past 9 years.
On 8 September 2017, the Embrey/Virginia Electric Power Company Plant in Fredericksburg VA came alive for the first time in over half a century in an awe-inspiring light and sound show. The idea for this event was sparked on a Friends of the Rappahannock-sponsored moonlight cruise earlier this summer, when the author of this article noticed how majestic the abandoned power plant appeared from the river, and experienced a vision of how it might look colorfully lit up at night. Well, after a few months of intense teamwork and coordination, the
“Light up the Power Plant!” event was held and appreciably experienced by hundreds of viewers on the river and ashore. This event showcased our mutually-supportive community of Fredericksburg at its finest. First, Ed Whelan, Inn at the Old Silk Mill owner who also owns the power plant, graciously allowed the building to be used for the event. Not only did Ed fund the event and provide it free to the public, he and his team also coordinated safety, parking, grounds preparation, and building access. Second, local DJ and radio personality Bill Carroll (Bill Carroll Entertainment) and his team designed and provided the show. Third, Friends of the Rappahannock (Woody Walker and team) and the Virginia Outdoor Center (Bill & Denise Mick and team) collaborated to provide kayaks and canoes on-site that allowed over 70 people to get out on the river and view the show from that amazing perspective. Fourth, local press and organizations to include the Free Lance Star (Amana Vicinanzo), B-101.5 (Ted Schubel), Front Porch Magazine Whurk (Virginia Grogan), Magazine (Seth Casana), Fredericksburg Main Street (Ann Glave), Economic Development & Tourism (Bill Freehling), and numerous other entities heavily advertised the event in print and on social media. Fifth, several local photographers to include Michele Phillips, Maks Jerndal, Norma Woodward, Sue Henderson, Daniel Poznanski, Nigel Harstaad, Stephen Collins, Brant Stephenson, and Joe Brooks (and his drone) came out and professionally memorialized the event (note, the best of their photos will be featured in large-sscale at a “Light Up the Power Plant” photography show at the Red Dragon Brewery during the month of October). Sixth, the Common Ground Church led by Pastor Gregg Jennings set up a table and provided the public with hot liquid
refreshments and snacks. And last but certainly not least, the Fredericksburg citizenry and guests came out and participated in droves, frolicking with family and friends, and paddling and dancing to the flashing glow of the light show. In summary, here is a behind-thescenes perspective from maestro Bill Carroll. “As this was a first time experiment, we didn’t know what to anticipate in terms of public expectations. Due to a limited budget, we were just going to provide some colored light sequences along with the
sound effects of a factory that could be enjoyed briefly. Well, once hundreds of people showed up and obviously wanted to stay and be entertained for 2 hours, I had to switch gears and turn it into a more energetic show - manually
changing how I controlled the light fixtures as well as playing partyatmosphere music. What a challenge, but it all worked out to be an EPIC event and the most entertaining light show Fredericksburg has ever seen. With the help of my amazing crew and everyone involved, we did it!!” Photos by Nigel Haartad Photography
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
11
Join us for Comedy @ the Courtyard! Friday October 27th
Bourbon cocktails BOWMAN BOURBON PUNCH
7pm & 9 pm Show Times Tickets available at @ CoolCowComedy.com 620 Caroline Street 540.373.8300
SpiritS
Serving Up Local “Good” News Since 1997
Front Porch Fredericksburg
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 12
October 2017
Front porch fredericksburg
540/371-9 9328
HOT TODDY Boiling water 4 Cloves 1 Lemon twist 2 tsp Demerara sugar or brown sugar .25 oz Lemon juice 2 oz Bourbon, rye whiskey, Irish whiskey or scotch Fill a mug with boiling water and let stand for a minute or two to warm. Meanwhile, stick the cloves into the lemon twist and set aside. Empty the mug and fill about halfway with fresh boiling water. Add the sugar and stir to dissolve. Add the prepared lemon twist and stir. Add the lemon juice and whiskey, and stir again.
Fredericksburg’s Hometown Irish Pub & Restaurant Since 1961
century farm recipes By vanessa moncure
4 oz bourbon (Recommend: Bowman Brothers ) 4 oz orange juice A few dashes blood orange bitters Ginger beer Serves: 2 Combine bourbon, orange juice and a few dashes of blood orange bitters in a shaker filled with ice. Strain into mason jars filled with ice about until about two-thirds full, top with ginger beer and garnish with fresh orange slices. BOURBON LIFT COCKTAIL The cocktail equivalent of a New York egg cream, this rich and fizzy bourbon drink is absolutely delicious. 1.5 oz Bourbon 5 oz Heavy Cream 5 oz House Spirits Coffee Liqueur or other coffee liqueur 5 oz Almond orgeat (bottled or homemade) Club soda Add all the ingredients except the club soda to a shaker and fill with ice. Shake for 10 seconds and double-strain into an 8ounce Fizz or Collins glass. Fill with club soda, pouring from about 6 inches above the glass. Wait a few seconds and then add another splash of soda this will lift the foam above the top of the glass. Serve with a straw.
Season’s Bounty
BOURBON MANHATTAN 2 oz Bourbon 1 oz Italian sweet vermouth 2 dashes Angostura bitters Add all the ingredients to a mixing glass and fill with ice. Stir, strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a cherry. (If you prefer a dry Manhattan, use dry vermouth instead of sweet and garnish with a lemon twist.).
SCOFFLAW COCKTAIL 2 oz Bourbon or rye whiskey 1 oz Dry vermouth .25 oz Lemon juice .5 oz Grenadine 2 dashes Orange bitters – Add all the ingredients to a shaker and fill with ice. Shake, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
THE JOCKEY CLUB COCKTAIL 1.5 oz Bourbon 1 oz Sweet vermouth .25 oz Maraschino liqueur Garnish: 1 Brandied cherry Add all the ingredients to a mixing glass and fill with ice. Stir, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a brandied cherry
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
Just this month we recorded a conservation easement on our farm, a document which should guarantee, in perpetuity, a well-husbanded slice of rural acreage off a dusty gravel back road. Our land has a small mountain on the eastern slope of the Blue Ridge, with fresh springs feeding headwaters flowing into unnamed rivulets and branches across our fields, through Leathers Run and well on to the Rapidan River. Our Madison farm is designated a Virginia Century Farm (pictured) , one of about 1400 farms recognized throughout the state as being owned and farmed by the same family for at least 100 consecutive years - my grandchildren will be the tenth generation. A pair of stacked-stone chimneys anchor the main house, built about 1830 after fire destroyed the first home there a “modern” outdoor kitchen was added before the Civil War, and the “new” addition of 1913 gave the home its distinctive double porches. When I was a child, the outdoor kitchen still got a lot of use, especially during canning and preserving times - the large cast-iron woodburning stove is still there, along with an ancient farmhouse sink and oh the luxury! an indoor water pump. The woodhouse is slightly behind the kitchen, and two large hen houses were alongside I still have my child-size handmade egg basket. To me, every day was like Easter morning while gathering the eggs - large, brown, speckled and still warm. The other hen house was a brooder house, for raising the chicks. They were delivered, peeping wildly, in cardboard boxes from a mail-order hatchery, then kept warm in the enclosed, heated brooder house. You can still order them today, 15 3-day-old chicks for just $19.05! (www.cacklehatchery.com) Conveniently located just behind the kitchen was the huge stump of a timbered tree, rolled into place and used as a chopping block for initial butchering. The laying hens were too valuable to eat, so usually only the old hens got the clean chop - I remember thinking it was funny that they could still run around without a head! (Left to their own devices, I do think children can be a bit cruel. Even me.) In the back of the kitchen yard was a firepit rendering fat from a butchered pig was too messy even for an outdoor kitchen. Fall was the time of year for slaughtering and hanging hams - and the tree is still standing where deer were hung after the hunt, and there was usually a fan of wild turkey feathers nailed on a nearby post, with wattles of differing lengths hanging alongside. On sunny warm fall days, apples were sliced and spread out then hung on muslin sheets to dry - grapes were left on
the vine, then picked as raisins for baking. Since the house had no central heating, most cooking headed indoors by October. The indoor wood stove is smaller, with warming drawers above the hot top, with beautiful dusty blue porcelain enamelcoated doors and trim. The old kindling box is still in use on the porch - I remember many times helping my great-grandmother make kindling with her small kitchen axe. Hmmm…..not sure if my mother knew about that. She purchased staples in larger quantity flour,molasses, sugar, salt, soda - and had a special spice box that she kept coveted kitchen spices like cinnamon sticks, whole nutmegs with their mace coating and dried gingerroot. Sassafras root and at least a dozen kinds of dried herbs from her kitchen garden were stored in small covered crocks. The kitchen was the most aromatic and coziest room in the house, and where I used to stay underfoot most of the time. Cooking and food are central to my childhood memories - certain smells or sounds of the kitchen are so evocative of my early years that I often find myself baking or cooking these comforting tastes for my grandchildren, telling them I’m passing on a memory. My mother was the last child born at the farm in Madison and she had a special connection with her grandmother - and fortunately kept the receipt book of recipes that I have today. None of these came with exact measurements (size of a hen egg) or baking temperatures (low oven), but I have made them often enough that the quantities seem to work. These pre-date the Civil War, as my great-grandmother was born in 1872 and they were her mother’s recipes. Enjoy your century-plus cakes!
BLACK CAKE This was a quick dessert cake made with just a few ingredients. My great-grandmother served it with a lemon sauce or cold cream poured atop. Refined sugar was very expensive compared to molasses, and many early recipes call for it as the sweetening agent in cakes, pies or cookies. CAKE Beat together one cup each molasses and full-fat buttermilk. Stir in one-quarter cup melted butter and one and one-half cups flour sifted with one teaspoon of baking soda. Add flavorings (extracts) or any spices as desired. Spoon into a greased 8-inch square baking dish and bake in preheated 350F oven 30-35 minutes. Serve warm.
The Sunken Well Tavern
Mon-Thurs, 11am-9pm Fri & Sat, 11am-10pm Sun, 11am - 9pm Bar open until 2am everyday
200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738
The Soup & Taco, Etc. 813 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA
APPLE CAKE Beat together until light two whole eggs and two egg yolks with one-half cup shortening and two cups sugar. Stir in one cup thick applesauce, homemade if possible. Stir together two and one-half cups flour with one teaspoon of baking soda and stir into cake mixture with one teaspoon ground cinnamon and one-half teaspoon each of cloves and nutmeg. Stir in one cup raisins mixed with one tablespoon of flour. Spoon into greased and floured ten-inch tube pan and bake in preheated 350F oven 45 to 55 minutes. Let cool in pan, then wrap and store in a pan with close-fitting top. This cake tastes better as it ages.
Serving Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex Food and Something More!! Tuesday to Saturday
Eat Well Drink Well Live Well 720 Littlepage sunkenwelltavern.com 540-370-0911
11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm
Phone: 540-899-0969 soupntaco@yahoo.com
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
13
Join us for Comedy @ the Courtyard! Friday October 27th
Bourbon cocktails BOWMAN BOURBON PUNCH
7pm & 9 pm Show Times Tickets available at @ CoolCowComedy.com 620 Caroline Street 540.373.8300
SpiritS
Serving Up Local “Good” News Since 1997
Front Porch Fredericksburg
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 12
October 2017
Front porch fredericksburg
540/371-9 9328
HOT TODDY Boiling water 4 Cloves 1 Lemon twist 2 tsp Demerara sugar or brown sugar .25 oz Lemon juice 2 oz Bourbon, rye whiskey, Irish whiskey or scotch Fill a mug with boiling water and let stand for a minute or two to warm. Meanwhile, stick the cloves into the lemon twist and set aside. Empty the mug and fill about halfway with fresh boiling water. Add the sugar and stir to dissolve. Add the prepared lemon twist and stir. Add the lemon juice and whiskey, and stir again.
Fredericksburg’s Hometown Irish Pub & Restaurant Since 1961
century farm recipes By vanessa moncure
4 oz bourbon (Recommend: Bowman Brothers ) 4 oz orange juice A few dashes blood orange bitters Ginger beer Serves: 2 Combine bourbon, orange juice and a few dashes of blood orange bitters in a shaker filled with ice. Strain into mason jars filled with ice about until about two-thirds full, top with ginger beer and garnish with fresh orange slices. BOURBON LIFT COCKTAIL The cocktail equivalent of a New York egg cream, this rich and fizzy bourbon drink is absolutely delicious. 1.5 oz Bourbon 5 oz Heavy Cream 5 oz House Spirits Coffee Liqueur or other coffee liqueur 5 oz Almond orgeat (bottled or homemade) Club soda Add all the ingredients except the club soda to a shaker and fill with ice. Shake for 10 seconds and double-strain into an 8ounce Fizz or Collins glass. Fill with club soda, pouring from about 6 inches above the glass. Wait a few seconds and then add another splash of soda this will lift the foam above the top of the glass. Serve with a straw.
Season’s Bounty
BOURBON MANHATTAN 2 oz Bourbon 1 oz Italian sweet vermouth 2 dashes Angostura bitters Add all the ingredients to a mixing glass and fill with ice. Stir, strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a cherry. (If you prefer a dry Manhattan, use dry vermouth instead of sweet and garnish with a lemon twist.).
SCOFFLAW COCKTAIL 2 oz Bourbon or rye whiskey 1 oz Dry vermouth .25 oz Lemon juice .5 oz Grenadine 2 dashes Orange bitters – Add all the ingredients to a shaker and fill with ice. Shake, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
THE JOCKEY CLUB COCKTAIL 1.5 oz Bourbon 1 oz Sweet vermouth .25 oz Maraschino liqueur Garnish: 1 Brandied cherry Add all the ingredients to a mixing glass and fill with ice. Stir, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a brandied cherry
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
Just this month we recorded a conservation easement on our farm, a document which should guarantee, in perpetuity, a well-husbanded slice of rural acreage off a dusty gravel back road. Our land has a small mountain on the eastern slope of the Blue Ridge, with fresh springs feeding headwaters flowing into unnamed rivulets and branches across our fields, through Leathers Run and well on to the Rapidan River. Our Madison farm is designated a Virginia Century Farm (pictured) , one of about 1400 farms recognized throughout the state as being owned and farmed by the same family for at least 100 consecutive years - my grandchildren will be the tenth generation. A pair of stacked-stone chimneys anchor the main house, built about 1830 after fire destroyed the first home there a “modern” outdoor kitchen was added before the Civil War, and the “new” addition of 1913 gave the home its distinctive double porches. When I was a child, the outdoor kitchen still got a lot of use, especially during canning and preserving times - the large cast-iron woodburning stove is still there, along with an ancient farmhouse sink and oh the luxury! an indoor water pump. The woodhouse is slightly behind the kitchen, and two large hen houses were alongside I still have my child-size handmade egg basket. To me, every day was like Easter morning while gathering the eggs - large, brown, speckled and still warm. The other hen house was a brooder house, for raising the chicks. They were delivered, peeping wildly, in cardboard boxes from a mail-order hatchery, then kept warm in the enclosed, heated brooder house. You can still order them today, 15 3-day-old chicks for just $19.05! (www.cacklehatchery.com) Conveniently located just behind the kitchen was the huge stump of a timbered tree, rolled into place and used as a chopping block for initial butchering. The laying hens were too valuable to eat, so usually only the old hens got the clean chop - I remember thinking it was funny that they could still run around without a head! (Left to their own devices, I do think children can be a bit cruel. Even me.) In the back of the kitchen yard was a firepit rendering fat from a butchered pig was too messy even for an outdoor kitchen. Fall was the time of year for slaughtering and hanging hams - and the tree is still standing where deer were hung after the hunt, and there was usually a fan of wild turkey feathers nailed on a nearby post, with wattles of differing lengths hanging alongside. On sunny warm fall days, apples were sliced and spread out then hung on muslin sheets to dry - grapes were left on
the vine, then picked as raisins for baking. Since the house had no central heating, most cooking headed indoors by October. The indoor wood stove is smaller, with warming drawers above the hot top, with beautiful dusty blue porcelain enamelcoated doors and trim. The old kindling box is still in use on the porch - I remember many times helping my great-grandmother make kindling with her small kitchen axe. Hmmm…..not sure if my mother knew about that. She purchased staples in larger quantity flour,molasses, sugar, salt, soda - and had a special spice box that she kept coveted kitchen spices like cinnamon sticks, whole nutmegs with their mace coating and dried gingerroot. Sassafras root and at least a dozen kinds of dried herbs from her kitchen garden were stored in small covered crocks. The kitchen was the most aromatic and coziest room in the house, and where I used to stay underfoot most of the time. Cooking and food are central to my childhood memories - certain smells or sounds of the kitchen are so evocative of my early years that I often find myself baking or cooking these comforting tastes for my grandchildren, telling them I’m passing on a memory. My mother was the last child born at the farm in Madison and she had a special connection with her grandmother - and fortunately kept the receipt book of recipes that I have today. None of these came with exact measurements (size of a hen egg) or baking temperatures (low oven), but I have made them often enough that the quantities seem to work. These pre-date the Civil War, as my great-grandmother was born in 1872 and they were her mother’s recipes. Enjoy your century-plus cakes!
BLACK CAKE This was a quick dessert cake made with just a few ingredients. My great-grandmother served it with a lemon sauce or cold cream poured atop. Refined sugar was very expensive compared to molasses, and many early recipes call for it as the sweetening agent in cakes, pies or cookies. CAKE Beat together one cup each molasses and full-fat buttermilk. Stir in one-quarter cup melted butter and one and one-half cups flour sifted with one teaspoon of baking soda. Add flavorings (extracts) or any spices as desired. Spoon into a greased 8-inch square baking dish and bake in preheated 350F oven 30-35 minutes. Serve warm.
The Sunken Well Tavern
Mon-Thurs, 11am-9pm Fri & Sat, 11am-10pm Sun, 11am - 9pm Bar open until 2am everyday
200 Hanover St. ~ 373-0738
The Soup & Taco, Etc. 813 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA
APPLE CAKE Beat together until light two whole eggs and two egg yolks with one-half cup shortening and two cups sugar. Stir in one cup thick applesauce, homemade if possible. Stir together two and one-half cups flour with one teaspoon of baking soda and stir into cake mixture with one teaspoon ground cinnamon and one-half teaspoon each of cloves and nutmeg. Stir in one cup raisins mixed with one tablespoon of flour. Spoon into greased and floured ten-inch tube pan and bake in preheated 350F oven 45 to 55 minutes. Let cool in pan, then wrap and store in a pan with close-fitting top. This cake tastes better as it ages.
Serving Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex Food and Something More!! Tuesday to Saturday
Eat Well Drink Well Live Well 720 Littlepage sunkenwelltavern.com 540-370-0911
11am-9pm Sunday 11am-6pm
Phone: 540-899-0969 soupntaco@yahoo.com
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
13
Cooking With Kyle
Everything Greens herbal arts collective
Pistachio pesto salmon
By meg snead
by james kyle snyder
Fall is in full swing now. The air is turning crisper, routines have been reestablished, and the need for a healthy, delicious, quick meal is ever present. “The Grind” has begun. Even as we head into stew season, there is a craving for the fresh taste of summer. Having been forward thinking as we harvested and froze the basil, this is more than just a nagging thought. It is an easy reality. Pistachio pesto salmon is what’s for dinner tonight! You can make and freeze the pesto or just the basil - as I prefer to do so you can use it in sauces and soups. All that is necessary to prepare it for the freezer is to add 1Tbs extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) to 1 tightly packed cup of basil in a food processor. I blend it to a coarse paste so I know exactly how big the portion is that I have. I put the choppedup cup into plastic wrap and create easyto-open packages which freeze well. But wait – it’s October and all the basil is gone now. Sorry… you can grow basil indoors over the winter or you can buy it by the bunch and save this trick for next year – either way. The pesto is super easy. In a food processor, combine: 1 tightly packed cup of basil (or one of the defrosted packages), ¼ C freshly grated parmesan cheese, 1 Tbs chopped garlic, the zest and juice of 1 lemon, 1 tsp kosher salt & ¼ tsp ground black pepper (S&P proportions to make a pinch bowl), 1Tbs EVOO if using the frozen basil – 2 Tbs if using fresh and blend into a coarse paste. Add the pistachios and coarsely chop them to test for the flavors and texture Be very careful to not blend the pistachios too much or you will make pistachio butter with a similar consistency to peanut butter; tasty but hard to work with. I like my pesto a
14
October 2017
little thicker with larger pieces of pistachios – especially if I am going to freeze it like the basil. You can always add more oil to thin it or chop it again to make it smoother. If the lemon and salt are to your taste at this point and the nuts are to your desired texture, take the mixture out of the food processor to adjust the oil by hand. This will avoid pistachio butter. Now for the 20-minute meal. Start heating the oven to 450 degrees. Wash a whole salmon filet (2-3 pounds), pat it dry, and place it skin side down on a cookie sheet. Being careful to not cross contaminate your pesto with raw salmon, put a thick streak of pesto on the non-skin side of the fish. Thin the pesto with a little drizzle of olive oil and spread evenly with your fingertips. The pesto will keep the salmon moist as the cheese and nuts lightly brown and crust over in the hot oven. I sometimes halve grape tomatoes or slice large tomatoes and place them on top of the pesto before baking. Put it straight into the oven, even if it has not reached 450 degrees, and bake for 15-20 minutes depending on how well done you like your salmon. Set the table and call the crew for dinner. This is a great hip pocket meal anytime of the year but especially helpful during those super busy times. Don’t be afraid to break it out when fresh sockeye salmon is in season too. Till next month, keep it simple, easy, and delicious. Be well!
Kyle brings us simple, healthy recipes each month. Edited by k Jeanne fraser – super-fan of incredible food.
Front porch fredericksburg
For over 20 years, Downtown Greens has been providing the Fredericksburg community with more than just green space – they’ve actively sought out, identified, and found unique ways to answer the needs of an urban community with a yen for natural living. They provide a community gathering space in their Gardens, community events such as the upcoming Down Home Ball on October 14th, and gardening and healthy
C L THE HAPPY M The Only Thing We “Overlook” is the Rappahannock! Monday ~ Saturday: 11am ~ 9pm Sunday: 12-8pm 1017 Sophia Street
540-899-0140 (ph)
540-899-0141 (fax)
Rand Sompayrac & Richard Moncure, Proprietors
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
eating programs for kids of all ages – just to name a few. And now, Pati Dunn has joined their volunteer workforce to revitalize one of their best kept secrets the Herbal Arts Collective. The Herbal Arts Collective is designed to be exactly what it sounds like - a collective experience, in which community members from all backgrounds and herbal knowledge levels can come together to learn from each other. As Pati put it, “I see this Collective as a group-learning experience, not just one all-knowing teacher leading students down their path.” Their structure, too, is one which lends itself to growing with the needs of its members as it combines “unstructured chat sessions to share ideas and wisdom as well as more structured classes monthly.” Currently, the group has set up monthly Tea Meets in the cozy Downtown Green’s office where members can come together to share a cup of tea and chat about a different topic (September’s was “natural stress management”). They also have an upcoming class on October 4th delving into Cordial Making, taught by Tanja Phul of Life Light Lab, and have recently made their own Herbal Bug-Spray – which I can attest to actually working from my own grateful experience! Many of the herbs and medicinal plants used by the Collective are being grown in the Herb and Pollinator Garden at Downtown Greens – the site for their quarterly Wild Weed Walks to discuss identification, foraging,
and use of medicinal weeds. While the herbal arts may not be a new idea for Fredericksburg (you can learn all about the history of medicinal herb usage in Fredericksburg at the Hugh Mercer Apothecary), they are, as Sarah Perry of Downtown Greens put it, “a natural way to connect people and nature, which has been one of our missions from the very beginning.” As the Herbal Arts Collective grows its roots in the Fredericksburg community, they hope to “bring a mix of different folks with varying backgrounds for an informative and fun meetup…as a hands-on way to learn how herbs and nature in general can be prepared to help heal the body and mind.” If you would like to join in on the learning at the Herbal Arts Collective, you can find them on Facebook at facebook.com/HerbalArtsCollective, or join them for their next Tea Meet on October 16th at 11am!
Meg Snead is a homeschooling mom of three, a member of CSA & an ardet lover of all food local, natural & unmessed with.
Serving Up Local “Good” News Since 1997
Front Porch Fredericksburg
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
15
Cooking With Kyle
Everything Greens herbal arts collective
Pistachio pesto salmon
By meg snead
by james kyle snyder
Fall is in full swing now. The air is turning crisper, routines have been reestablished, and the need for a healthy, delicious, quick meal is ever present. “The Grind” has begun. Even as we head into stew season, there is a craving for the fresh taste of summer. Having been forward thinking as we harvested and froze the basil, this is more than just a nagging thought. It is an easy reality. Pistachio pesto salmon is what’s for dinner tonight! You can make and freeze the pesto or just the basil - as I prefer to do so you can use it in sauces and soups. All that is necessary to prepare it for the freezer is to add 1Tbs extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) to 1 tightly packed cup of basil in a food processor. I blend it to a coarse paste so I know exactly how big the portion is that I have. I put the choppedup cup into plastic wrap and create easyto-open packages which freeze well. But wait – it’s October and all the basil is gone now. Sorry… you can grow basil indoors over the winter or you can buy it by the bunch and save this trick for next year – either way. The pesto is super easy. In a food processor, combine: 1 tightly packed cup of basil (or one of the defrosted packages), ¼ C freshly grated parmesan cheese, 1 Tbs chopped garlic, the zest and juice of 1 lemon, 1 tsp kosher salt & ¼ tsp ground black pepper (S&P proportions to make a pinch bowl), 1Tbs EVOO if using the frozen basil – 2 Tbs if using fresh and blend into a coarse paste. Add the pistachios and coarsely chop them to test for the flavors and texture Be very careful to not blend the pistachios too much or you will make pistachio butter with a similar consistency to peanut butter; tasty but hard to work with. I like my pesto a
14
October 2017
little thicker with larger pieces of pistachios – especially if I am going to freeze it like the basil. You can always add more oil to thin it or chop it again to make it smoother. If the lemon and salt are to your taste at this point and the nuts are to your desired texture, take the mixture out of the food processor to adjust the oil by hand. This will avoid pistachio butter. Now for the 20-minute meal. Start heating the oven to 450 degrees. Wash a whole salmon filet (2-3 pounds), pat it dry, and place it skin side down on a cookie sheet. Being careful to not cross contaminate your pesto with raw salmon, put a thick streak of pesto on the non-skin side of the fish. Thin the pesto with a little drizzle of olive oil and spread evenly with your fingertips. The pesto will keep the salmon moist as the cheese and nuts lightly brown and crust over in the hot oven. I sometimes halve grape tomatoes or slice large tomatoes and place them on top of the pesto before baking. Put it straight into the oven, even if it has not reached 450 degrees, and bake for 15-20 minutes depending on how well done you like your salmon. Set the table and call the crew for dinner. This is a great hip pocket meal anytime of the year but especially helpful during those super busy times. Don’t be afraid to break it out when fresh sockeye salmon is in season too. Till next month, keep it simple, easy, and delicious. Be well!
Kyle brings us simple, healthy recipes each month. Edited by k Jeanne fraser – super-fan of incredible food.
Front porch fredericksburg
For over 20 years, Downtown Greens has been providing the Fredericksburg community with more than just green space – they’ve actively sought out, identified, and found unique ways to answer the needs of an urban community with a yen for natural living. They provide a community gathering space in their Gardens, community events such as the upcoming Down Home Ball on October 14th, and gardening and healthy
C L THE HAPPY M The Only Thing We “Overlook” is the Rappahannock! Monday ~ Saturday: 11am ~ 9pm Sunday: 12-8pm 1017 Sophia Street
540-899-0140 (ph)
540-899-0141 (fax)
Rand Sompayrac & Richard Moncure, Proprietors
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
eating programs for kids of all ages – just to name a few. And now, Pati Dunn has joined their volunteer workforce to revitalize one of their best kept secrets the Herbal Arts Collective. The Herbal Arts Collective is designed to be exactly what it sounds like - a collective experience, in which community members from all backgrounds and herbal knowledge levels can come together to learn from each other. As Pati put it, “I see this Collective as a group-learning experience, not just one all-knowing teacher leading students down their path.” Their structure, too, is one which lends itself to growing with the needs of its members as it combines “unstructured chat sessions to share ideas and wisdom as well as more structured classes monthly.” Currently, the group has set up monthly Tea Meets in the cozy Downtown Green’s office where members can come together to share a cup of tea and chat about a different topic (September’s was “natural stress management”). They also have an upcoming class on October 4th delving into Cordial Making, taught by Tanja Phul of Life Light Lab, and have recently made their own Herbal Bug-Spray – which I can attest to actually working from my own grateful experience! Many of the herbs and medicinal plants used by the Collective are being grown in the Herb and Pollinator Garden at Downtown Greens – the site for their quarterly Wild Weed Walks to discuss identification, foraging,
and use of medicinal weeds. While the herbal arts may not be a new idea for Fredericksburg (you can learn all about the history of medicinal herb usage in Fredericksburg at the Hugh Mercer Apothecary), they are, as Sarah Perry of Downtown Greens put it, “a natural way to connect people and nature, which has been one of our missions from the very beginning.” As the Herbal Arts Collective grows its roots in the Fredericksburg community, they hope to “bring a mix of different folks with varying backgrounds for an informative and fun meetup…as a hands-on way to learn how herbs and nature in general can be prepared to help heal the body and mind.” If you would like to join in on the learning at the Herbal Arts Collective, you can find them on Facebook at facebook.com/HerbalArtsCollective, or join them for their next Tea Meet on October 16th at 11am!
Meg Snead is a homeschooling mom of three, a member of CSA & an ardet lover of all food local, natural & unmessed with.
Serving Up Local “Good” News Since 1997
Front Porch Fredericksburg
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
15
CALENDAR of events
Moving Gallery, Friday location. Very soon, the Caroline Street.
october 2017‌Breast Cancer Awareness Month Sunday, October 1
Light Up the Power Plant Photo Exhibit @ Red Dragon Brewery. thru Oct. 1419 Princess Anne St Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p
Tuesday, October 3
Storybook Time @Hurkamp Park, 11:30-1pm The League of Women Voters of the Fredericksburg Area Candidates Forum panel of candidates VA State Delegate seat for Districts 88 and 28, which include the City of Fredericksburg and parts of Stafford and Spotsylvania County. Dorothy Hart Comm. Center. 7-9p Tastings Tuesday in the Bar @Legume. Taste featured wine &/or draft beer, 3-6p Legume $3 Taco Tuesday in the Bar All Day
Wednesday, October 4
Herbal Arts Collective "Cordial Making", taught by Tanja Phul of Life Light Lab. Info facebook.com/HerbalArtsCollective, Sunken Well Trivia 7:45pm ~ Come and match wits against the finest minds in Fredericksburg! Compete for Honor, Glory, and Prizes!!
@ Artful Dimensions Join us for our last First event at our current gallery will be moving to
Saturday, October 7
Art in the Park @Hurkamp Park Farm Mart7a-2p Ferry Farm Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, 12-4:30p. Celebrate the construction of the Washington House. View the reconstructed Washington House, talk to archaeologists, artians, & architects . Container Gardening with Dee King@Stratford Hall. 10a-12. workshop covers the basics for making a beautiful container and tips to keep it strong during the growing season and beyond. $ Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p Live music night from 9pm until midnight at Spencer Devon 106 George Street Make a Scarecrow, Hurkamp Park, 9a-11a. $. Fred Pks & Rec Harvest Festival, Hurkamp Park, 7a-2p. Free. Fred Pks & Rec Legume Live Music, 8-10p Vamos
Sunday, October 8
Thursday, October 5
The Adaptations return to Kenmore Inn bringing their distinct acoustic renderings back to the venue "some seriously soulful rockin' rowdy funky folky bluesy countrified acoustic music." 7:30pm
First Friday, October 6
The Scarecrows are Coming. Come Downtown & vote for your favorite Scrawcrows, thru Oct 31. Brush Strokes Gallery, All-Member show on displayed from thru October opportunity to meet the artists at opening reception 6-9pm First Friday Meet the Artists @ Community Bank of the Chesapeake. 2-5p Waynes World by Wayne Russell opening reception @ Art First. 6-9p. 824 Caroline St
Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p Visit local wineries Eden Try Estate & Winery, Lake Anna Winery, Mattaponi Winery, Wilderness Run Vineyard, Reservations required @ Fredericksburg Trolley.com, or 800-979-3370
Monday, October 9
Fredburg Canasta Group @ Wegman's 10a. Group gathering for socializing, having fun, playing cards and good conversation. Open to all: retirees, seniors, anyone with free time. .
Tuesday, October 10
Author Jamie Ford @ CRRL Main Branch, 78:30pm, author of Hotel on the Corner of Bitter
and Sweet and Songs of Willow Frost. His latest book, Love and Other Consolation Prizes was published last month . A public reception for Ford will be followed by his presentation, a Q&A session, and book signing. Cosmo-Politan Evening: A Girls Night Out with friends, fun & fashion @ Fred Country Club, 6:30 Tastings Tuesday in the Bar @Legume. Taste featured wine &/or draft beer, 3-6p Legume $3 Taco Tuesday in the Bar All Day
Wednesday, October 11
FredSPCA volunteer orientation, 5-7pm @shelter Sunken Well Trivia 7:45pm ~ Come and match wits against the finest minds in Fredericksburg!
Friday, October 13
Legume Live Music, 8-10p Sequels FXBG-Este Assoc. Arts & Culture Lecture Series. Archaic Italy: history, language and culture from prehistoric to the Roman Empire. 6:30PM, lecture. Rusty Neal, PhD. Sydnor Hall St. George's Church, 905 Princess Anne Street. Free. Donations accepted. www.fred-este.org.
Saturday, October 14
DownHome Ball, an elegant hoe down @ Roxbury Farm & Garden Center, 601 Lafayette Blvd, 611pm. Benefit Downtown Greens VA Family & Pet Festival @Stafford Regional Airport. Pets for adoption. Camel & Pony Rides, Bungee jumper, Rockwall, Obstacle course, slide, band, great food and much more! 11-5p White Like Me~ a film based on the work of acclaimed anti-racist educator and author Tim Wise. A Unity of Fredericksburg Sponsored Event. CRRL main library theatre room. 6:30-9p Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p Now & Then Doll Show and Sale, 10a-4p. 11309 Tidewater Trail Fredericksburg Elks Lodge #875 Live music every Saturday night from 9pm until midnight at Spencer Devon 106 George Street
Sunday, October 15 Sunken Well Brunch a-2p
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes in downtown FXBG walk brings awareness to domestic violence Benefits Empowerhouse. 2pm. Opening ceremony at commuter lot and proceed to The Olde Silk Mill where there will be live music, food & drinks. ArtsLive presents Love Cannon in concert, 3-6pm music of the '80s a taken on a bluegrass-tinged joyride." For tkts: Artslive 540-374-5040. Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p Tour,visit local wineries Eden Try Estate & Winery, Lake Anna Winery, Mattaponi Winery, Wilderness Run Vineyard, Reservations required @ Fredericksburg Trolley.com, or 800-979-3370
Monday, October 16
Herbal Arts Collective, Tea Meet, 11a, Downtown Greens Office
Tuesday, October 17
Learn how to become a Foster Parent@Salem Church Library, 6p Tastings Tuesday in the Bar @Legume. Taste featured wine &/or draft beer, 3-6p Legume $3 Taco Tuesday in the Bar All Day
Wednesday, October 18
craft exhibits and competition, petting zoo, pony rides, pumpkin patch, 4H animal competitions, Fire & Rescue demonstrations, Antique car, truck and tractor show, great fair food, vendors and much more! Stafford Piecemakers Quilt Guild Quilt Show "A Quilting Safari" @ Porter Library. FREE. Certified quilt appraiser Mary Kerr available by appointment Legume Live Music, 8-10p Voodoo Circuit
Saturday, October 21
Art in the Park@Hurkamp Farmers Market, 7a-2p. Browse & shop local artists & crafters. Another Day walk for Suicide Prevention@Spotsy Courthouse Village. 9a. Walk with us to raise awareness and help save lives. 100% of the funds raised stay here to provide suicide prevention education in schools and our community. Stafford Co Agricultural & Homemaking Fair. 2135 Mountainview Road Mountainview High School. FREE . Music, carnival rides, home made food and craft exhibits and competition, petting zoo, pony rides, pumpkin patch, 4H animal competitions, Fire & Rescue demonstrations, Antique car, truck and tractor show, great fair food, vendors and much more! Spooky Stories by the Shore, Motts Reservoir, 6:40p $. Frd Pks & Rec.
Sunken Well Trivia 7:45pm ~ Come and match wits against the finest minds in Fredericksburg!
Halloween Movies in the Park grab a blanket & head on down to Hurkamp Park, 7pm. FREE
Thursday, October 19
Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p
Stafford Co Agricultural & Homemaking Fair. 2135 Mountainview Road Mountainview High School. FREE . Music, carnival rides, home made food and craft exhibits and competition, petting zoo, pony rides, pumpkin patch, 4H animal competitions, Fire & Rescue demonstrations, Antique car, truck and tractor show, great fair food, vendors and much more!
Friday, October 20
Stafford Co Agricultural & Homemaking Fair. 2135 Mountainview Road Mountainview High School. FREE . Music, carnival rides, home made food and
Legume Live Music, 8-10p Rob Williams Band Live music every Saturday night from 9pm until midnight at Spencer Devon 106 George Street
Sunday, October 22 Sunken Well Brunch 9a-2p
Stafford Co Agricultural & Homemaking Fair. 2135 Mountainview Road Mountainview High School.
FREE . Music, carnival rides, home made food and craft exhibits and competition, petting zoo, pony rides, pumpkin patch, 4H animal competitions, Fire & Rescue demonstrations, Antique car, truck and tractor show, great fair food, vendors and much more! Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p Legume Live Music, 8-10p Wylder
Tuesday, October 24
Tastings Tuesday in the Bar @Legume. Taste featured wine &/or draft beer, 3-6p Legume $3 Taco Tuesday in the Bar All Day
to each site. Meet the "Cemetery" Trolley at the Visitor's Center on Caroline St. Tour Times 11a, 12:45p, 2:30p. Rappahannock Colonial Heritage Society Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides through the decorated forest and around the farm Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Games Play in the Family PlayGrounds! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and much more! Admission is $9.00 per PERSON, 2 and under free! 9a-6p Legume Live Music, 8-10p HALLOWEEN PARTY W/ The Kingbolts Live music every Saturday night from 9pm until midnight at Spencer Devon 106 George Street
Sunday, October 29
Wednesday, October 25
Sunken Well Trivia tonight starting at 7:45pm ~ Come and match wits against the finest minds in Fredericksburg! Compete for Honor, Glory, and Prizes!!
Thursday, October 26
Fright Night Fu!, 5:30-7:30p, Dot Hart Comm. Center, $ Calling all ghastly ghouls, spooky spirits and wicked witches! Fredericksburg Parks & Recreation will celebrate Halloween with a fun filled carnival and costume contests.
Sunken Well Brunch 9a-2p
Sunday, October 31
Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p
Friday, October 27
Fredericksburg Songwriters' Showcase concert, featuring original acoustic music, begins 8pm at LibertyTown Arts Workshop. Enjoy the music of local and touring musicians amid beautiful works by local artists in an accessible venue. Admission $10 Info at 540-429-0999, and www.burgsongs.org Comedy at the Courtyard Mariott, Downtown, 7 & 9pm shows, tickets @CoolCowComedy.com
Saturday, October 28
Treats on the Streets: Head Downtown for Trick or Treating. Stop at Riverfront Park for FEE games, activites & more!
If you are reading this 243rd issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 21st year of continuous publication!
15th Annual Historic Cemetery Tour Join costumed historic interpreters for the 15th annual tour of Fredericksburg's 3 most historic cemeteries: St. George's Episcopal Church, Masonic, and the grave of Mary Washington. Ride a trolley
If you are an advertiser, list your events. Deadline for November 2017 issue is October 20th. To submit events go to frontporchfredericksburg.com/submit
3212 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join
Front Porch on 540-8 899-6 6787 16
October 2017
Front porch fredericksburg
fortemusicstudios.com front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
17
CALENDAR of events
Moving Gallery, Friday location. Very soon, the Caroline Street.
october 2017‌Breast Cancer Awareness Month Sunday, October 1
Light Up the Power Plant Photo Exhibit @ Red Dragon Brewery. thru Oct. 1419 Princess Anne St Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p
Tuesday, October 3
Storybook Time @Hurkamp Park, 11:30-1pm The League of Women Voters of the Fredericksburg Area Candidates Forum panel of candidates VA State Delegate seat for Districts 88 and 28, which include the City of Fredericksburg and parts of Stafford and Spotsylvania County. Dorothy Hart Comm. Center. 7-9p Tastings Tuesday in the Bar @Legume. Taste featured wine &/or draft beer, 3-6p Legume $3 Taco Tuesday in the Bar All Day
Wednesday, October 4
Herbal Arts Collective "Cordial Making", taught by Tanja Phul of Life Light Lab. Info facebook.com/HerbalArtsCollective, Sunken Well Trivia 7:45pm ~ Come and match wits against the finest minds in Fredericksburg! Compete for Honor, Glory, and Prizes!!
@ Artful Dimensions Join us for our last First event at our current gallery will be moving to
Saturday, October 7
Art in the Park @Hurkamp Park Farm Mart7a-2p Ferry Farm Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, 12-4:30p. Celebrate the construction of the Washington House. View the reconstructed Washington House, talk to archaeologists, artians, & architects . Container Gardening with Dee King@Stratford Hall. 10a-12. workshop covers the basics for making a beautiful container and tips to keep it strong during the growing season and beyond. $ Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p Live music night from 9pm until midnight at Spencer Devon 106 George Street Make a Scarecrow, Hurkamp Park, 9a-11a. $. Fred Pks & Rec Harvest Festival, Hurkamp Park, 7a-2p. Free. Fred Pks & Rec Legume Live Music, 8-10p Vamos
Sunday, October 8
Thursday, October 5
The Adaptations return to Kenmore Inn bringing their distinct acoustic renderings back to the venue "some seriously soulful rockin' rowdy funky folky bluesy countrified acoustic music." 7:30pm
First Friday, October 6
The Scarecrows are Coming. Come Downtown & vote for your favorite Scrawcrows, thru Oct 31. Brush Strokes Gallery, All-Member show on displayed from thru October opportunity to meet the artists at opening reception 6-9pm First Friday Meet the Artists @ Community Bank of the Chesapeake. 2-5p Waynes World by Wayne Russell opening reception @ Art First. 6-9p. 824 Caroline St
Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p Visit local wineries Eden Try Estate & Winery, Lake Anna Winery, Mattaponi Winery, Wilderness Run Vineyard, Reservations required @ Fredericksburg Trolley.com, or 800-979-3370
Monday, October 9
Fredburg Canasta Group @ Wegman's 10a. Group gathering for socializing, having fun, playing cards and good conversation. Open to all: retirees, seniors, anyone with free time. .
Tuesday, October 10
Author Jamie Ford @ CRRL Main Branch, 78:30pm, author of Hotel on the Corner of Bitter
and Sweet and Songs of Willow Frost. His latest book, Love and Other Consolation Prizes was published last month . A public reception for Ford will be followed by his presentation, a Q&A session, and book signing. Cosmo-Politan Evening: A Girls Night Out with friends, fun & fashion @ Fred Country Club, 6:30 Tastings Tuesday in the Bar @Legume. Taste featured wine &/or draft beer, 3-6p Legume $3 Taco Tuesday in the Bar All Day
Wednesday, October 11
FredSPCA volunteer orientation, 5-7pm @shelter Sunken Well Trivia 7:45pm ~ Come and match wits against the finest minds in Fredericksburg!
Friday, October 13
Legume Live Music, 8-10p Sequels FXBG-Este Assoc. Arts & Culture Lecture Series. Archaic Italy: history, language and culture from prehistoric to the Roman Empire. 6:30PM, lecture. Rusty Neal, PhD. Sydnor Hall St. George's Church, 905 Princess Anne Street. Free. Donations accepted. www.fred-este.org.
Saturday, October 14
DownHome Ball, an elegant hoe down @ Roxbury Farm & Garden Center, 601 Lafayette Blvd, 611pm. Benefit Downtown Greens VA Family & Pet Festival @Stafford Regional Airport. Pets for adoption. Camel & Pony Rides, Bungee jumper, Rockwall, Obstacle course, slide, band, great food and much more! 11-5p White Like Me~ a film based on the work of acclaimed anti-racist educator and author Tim Wise. A Unity of Fredericksburg Sponsored Event. CRRL main library theatre room. 6:30-9p Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p Now & Then Doll Show and Sale, 10a-4p. 11309 Tidewater Trail Fredericksburg Elks Lodge #875 Live music every Saturday night from 9pm until midnight at Spencer Devon 106 George Street
Sunday, October 15 Sunken Well Brunch a-2p
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes in downtown FXBG walk brings awareness to domestic violence Benefits Empowerhouse. 2pm. Opening ceremony at commuter lot and proceed to The Olde Silk Mill where there will be live music, food & drinks. ArtsLive presents Love Cannon in concert, 3-6pm music of the '80s a taken on a bluegrass-tinged joyride." For tkts: Artslive 540-374-5040. Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p Tour,visit local wineries Eden Try Estate & Winery, Lake Anna Winery, Mattaponi Winery, Wilderness Run Vineyard, Reservations required @ Fredericksburg Trolley.com, or 800-979-3370
Monday, October 16
Herbal Arts Collective, Tea Meet, 11a, Downtown Greens Office
Tuesday, October 17
Learn how to become a Foster Parent@Salem Church Library, 6p Tastings Tuesday in the Bar @Legume. Taste featured wine &/or draft beer, 3-6p Legume $3 Taco Tuesday in the Bar All Day
Wednesday, October 18
craft exhibits and competition, petting zoo, pony rides, pumpkin patch, 4H animal competitions, Fire & Rescue demonstrations, Antique car, truck and tractor show, great fair food, vendors and much more! Stafford Piecemakers Quilt Guild Quilt Show "A Quilting Safari" @ Porter Library. FREE. Certified quilt appraiser Mary Kerr available by appointment Legume Live Music, 8-10p Voodoo Circuit
Saturday, October 21
Art in the Park@Hurkamp Farmers Market, 7a-2p. Browse & shop local artists & crafters. Another Day walk for Suicide Prevention@Spotsy Courthouse Village. 9a. Walk with us to raise awareness and help save lives. 100% of the funds raised stay here to provide suicide prevention education in schools and our community. Stafford Co Agricultural & Homemaking Fair. 2135 Mountainview Road Mountainview High School. FREE . Music, carnival rides, home made food and craft exhibits and competition, petting zoo, pony rides, pumpkin patch, 4H animal competitions, Fire & Rescue demonstrations, Antique car, truck and tractor show, great fair food, vendors and much more! Spooky Stories by the Shore, Motts Reservoir, 6:40p $. Frd Pks & Rec.
Sunken Well Trivia 7:45pm ~ Come and match wits against the finest minds in Fredericksburg!
Halloween Movies in the Park grab a blanket & head on down to Hurkamp Park, 7pm. FREE
Thursday, October 19
Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p
Stafford Co Agricultural & Homemaking Fair. 2135 Mountainview Road Mountainview High School. FREE . Music, carnival rides, home made food and craft exhibits and competition, petting zoo, pony rides, pumpkin patch, 4H animal competitions, Fire & Rescue demonstrations, Antique car, truck and tractor show, great fair food, vendors and much more!
Friday, October 20
Stafford Co Agricultural & Homemaking Fair. 2135 Mountainview Road Mountainview High School. FREE . Music, carnival rides, home made food and
Legume Live Music, 8-10p Rob Williams Band Live music every Saturday night from 9pm until midnight at Spencer Devon 106 George Street
Sunday, October 22 Sunken Well Brunch 9a-2p
Stafford Co Agricultural & Homemaking Fair. 2135 Mountainview Road Mountainview High School.
FREE . Music, carnival rides, home made food and craft exhibits and competition, petting zoo, pony rides, pumpkin patch, 4H animal competitions, Fire & Rescue demonstrations, Antique car, truck and tractor show, great fair food, vendors and much more! Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p Legume Live Music, 8-10p Wylder
Tuesday, October 24
Tastings Tuesday in the Bar @Legume. Taste featured wine &/or draft beer, 3-6p Legume $3 Taco Tuesday in the Bar All Day
to each site. Meet the "Cemetery" Trolley at the Visitor's Center on Caroline St. Tour Times 11a, 12:45p, 2:30p. Rappahannock Colonial Heritage Society Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides through the decorated forest and around the farm Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Games Play in the Family PlayGrounds! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and much more! Admission is $9.00 per PERSON, 2 and under free! 9a-6p Legume Live Music, 8-10p HALLOWEEN PARTY W/ The Kingbolts Live music every Saturday night from 9pm until midnight at Spencer Devon 106 George Street
Sunday, October 29
Wednesday, October 25
Sunken Well Trivia tonight starting at 7:45pm ~ Come and match wits against the finest minds in Fredericksburg! Compete for Honor, Glory, and Prizes!!
Thursday, October 26
Fright Night Fu!, 5:30-7:30p, Dot Hart Comm. Center, $ Calling all ghastly ghouls, spooky spirits and wicked witches! Fredericksburg Parks & Recreation will celebrate Halloween with a fun filled carnival and costume contests.
Sunken Well Brunch 9a-2p
Sunday, October 31
Braehead Farm Fall Harvest Festival hayrides decorated forest Corn maze and sunflower walk! Pumpkin decorating! Hay barn, sand piles, corn pit, swings, farm animals and more! $ 9a-6p
Friday, October 27
Fredericksburg Songwriters' Showcase concert, featuring original acoustic music, begins 8pm at LibertyTown Arts Workshop. Enjoy the music of local and touring musicians amid beautiful works by local artists in an accessible venue. Admission $10 Info at 540-429-0999, and www.burgsongs.org Comedy at the Courtyard Mariott, Downtown, 7 & 9pm shows, tickets @CoolCowComedy.com
Saturday, October 28
Treats on the Streets: Head Downtown for Trick or Treating. Stop at Riverfront Park for FEE games, activites & more!
If you are reading this 243rd issue of FPF, thank an advertiser as we celebrate our 21st year of continuous publication!
15th Annual Historic Cemetery Tour Join costumed historic interpreters for the 15th annual tour of Fredericksburg's 3 most historic cemeteries: St. George's Episcopal Church, Masonic, and the grave of Mary Washington. Ride a trolley
If you are an advertiser, list your events. Deadline for November 2017 issue is October 20th. To submit events go to frontporchfredericksburg.com/submit
3212 Fans (& Growing) Want You to Join
Front Porch on 540-8 899-6 6787 16
October 2017
Front porch fredericksburg
fortemusicstudios.com front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
17
history’s stories
RELIGIOUS FREEDOM MONUMENT
OUR HERITAGE
A look at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center collection
By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks
venerable By John Reifenberg
Dr. Kurt Leidecker and I shared a common opinion that the Religious Freedom Monument is one of if not the most important monuments in the United States, for what actions it represents. We were friends up until his death in 1991 at the age of 89. He was a wellknown Professor at the University of Mary Washington and founder of the Thomas Jefferson Institute for the study of Religious Freedom. He was also the driving force in the relocation of the monument to its present-day location on Washington Avenue adjacent to the Mary Washington Monument in 1977. The Fredericksburg City Council in 1932 authorized the Monument to be built by local stonemason St. Clair Brooks, on George Street near the present War Memorial. There are two other monuments that are older, both of which are Jefferson’s tombstones. His original tombstone is so inscribed now located at the University of Missouri and his newer gravestone in Charlottesville at his home Monticello. Thomas Jefferson, Edmond Pendleton, Thomas Lee, George Mason and George Wythe met in Fredericksburg on January 13-17, 1777 with the intention of drafting a document for Religious Freedom for Virginia citizens. The document was to allow every man and woman the right to their own religious beliefs. It would take another nine years before the document would become a part of the Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom when it was voted on and passed by the Virginia General Assembly. The importance of this statute would be that it would become the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights. Thomas Jefferson always felt that this document along with drafting the Declaration of Independence and his founding of the University of Virginia his three greatest achievements during his life. Dr. Leidecker was very proud of the memorial and we together designed a medal for the 200th anniversary of the meeting in Fredericksburg. The medal was a limited edition of one-hundred cast by the local Wegner Metal Arts Foundry using the “lost wax process” in bronze. I have a Proof with the “0000” stamped on it number one was donated for display to the Fredericksburg Museum. There was a celebration with several hundred citizens and politicians in attendance. The City of Fredericksburg has a yearly event at the Monument with the local Knight of Columbus in attendance as they have done for many years. The celebration is an annual event in January each year. Visit the Monument it is easy to find and within walking distance of many local attractions. This is one monument that the entire United States should be proud of and it all began in Fredericksburg.
Venerable. The adjective is often tossed out. Many people and places of the region qualify for the moniker. As an example, all natives and many longtime residents fondly remember Fredericksburg Hardware. Knowledgeable, friendly service; and if you needed anything, they had it. Another, but current, institution: Roxbury Farm & Garden Center. In 1999, current manager Andy Lynn donated eight ledgers to the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center dating from 1929 to 1969. These caught my eye and being familiar with the place and some of the people, I looked closer. The Roxbury quest began without a clear agenda. The original idea was to provide a brief history of the Roxbury Farm & Garden Center by examining the ledgers and other “Roxbury” documents found at the Center. For many years, I had made the erroneous assumption that the current site was its only site. Therefore, I assumed that the 1929 ledger was for the current location. Shortly after opening a Pandora’s Box of disparate documentation, I asked General Manager Andy Lynn to come in for a sit down and help me sort through the labyrinth. He agreed, but after his departure, the footing was even less secure, as he provided me with a dizzying array of details. As for the businesses namesake, he mentioned a large farm in the region of Thornburg that was known as Roxbury. Searching the Center’s database produced many primary documents, and one of the first was an 1817 deed between Walker R. and Sarah Carter of the one part and Elizabeth H. Stanard of the other part for one eighth of a tract of land “lying and being in the County of Spotsylvania” and containing 1,534 acres, being known as “Roxbury”. Another document, of a nonprimary origin, indicates that Robert C.
Stanard, between 1825 and 1829, purchased previous Roxbury lands in order to bring it back to its former acreage. (I have purposely omitted certain other records in order to present an overview that I could understand and still be informative). Another Spotsylvania County court document from the archives, dated 1828, records a transaction between John Pratt Jr. of the County of Caroline and Robert Stanard for “an [illegible] interest in a tract of land called Roxbury situated in the County of Spotsylvania and containing fifteen hundred and eighty four acres”. Later, as recorded in 1852, a document was initiated in 1841 between the trustees of the Charity School of Fredericksburg and Robert G. Stanard. The document was recording a “mortgage ….and duly written to record…in the clerk’s office of Spottsylvania County Court conveying the tract therein mentioned called Roxbury”. (I did have to chuckle after reading the final paragraph of this document; “Reuben T. Thom Treasurer, by order of Trustees of Charity Scool of Fredericksburg”) The surface was barely scratched, and as can be seen through this brief inspection of the (mostly) primary documentation found in the Center, more questions arise than are answered. Lands are acquired, divided, reassembled, mortgaged, held as collateral, and more. With regret, I have yet to include any mention of the mill, or describe its location in the county. So please come by and initiate your own research into the story of “Roxbury”. Indeed, everyone is invited to the Center for a smorgasbord of gratifying research and enjoyment.
John Reifenberg is a CRHC Volunteer
DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF FERRIS BELMAN & MARIE CATLETT
Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer
Supporting Historic Preservation Since 1997 18
October 2017
Central Rappahannock Heritage Center
Virginia’s only Regional Archive 540~479~4116 1013 Princess Anne Street , FXBG
Front porch fredericksburg
The Heritage Center
Maury Commons 900 Barton St 540-373-3704; crhc@verizon.net
Fredericksburg
Renew
It’s All Energy
Wayne Whitley, DDS by Joan M. Geisler
WHAT IF your heart disease, high blood pressure, aches, pains, brain fog, chronic fatigue, IBS and more could be alleviated without medication? WHAT IF your child’s behavior problems, ADD, ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger, cutting, could be alleviated without medication? WHAT IF the root cause to your worse disease, ailment or dysfunction was all due to your tongue partially blocking your airway and causing you or your child not to breath optimally? Is that not the most amazing thought? WHAT IF it was true? WHAT IF there was a doctor right here in Fredericksburg that you could go to see if indeed this was your problem? Dr. Wayne Whitley is your answer. “Our bodies are walking miracles. What the medical field views as ‘symptoms’ are really warning signs and signals that something is wrong with our body,” says Dr. Whitley., “ warning signs that something else was wrong and not the disease itself? What a paradigm shift in our health care system that would be?” Dr. Whitley found the ORAL SYSTEM BALANCING helped him alleviate many of his ‘diseases, symptoms and ailments.’ And he is passionate to help you too. He creates a mouth piece to realign your tongue to get it out of the way so you can breathe.
Dr. Whitely believes that these ‘diseases, ailments, symptoms’ are the result of the body simply finding a coping mechanism because it is not getting enough oxygen. When our bodies are under stress or destress it responds with dumping adrenaline and cortisol so we have the ‘energy’ to fight or flight. If our bodies are not breathing properly and not getting optimum oxygen the same thing happens. The heart rate will increase resulting in high blood pressure which then triggers a slew of other ailments. A constant dumping of adrenaline and cortisol will eventually make us anxious, hyper, angry leading to hypertension, depression, ADD, ADHD. All because we are not breathing correctly. Imagine our mouth and throat and tongue like the Springfield Interchange. If any one of those bridges were damaged all the cars would have to compensate in order to maintain the traffic flow. What would happen to the side streets? They would get overloaded and damaged by handling more traffic than they were designed to handle. Same as our body. When we do not breath correctly and optimally, our body has to compensate and body parts and organs that were not designed to function at such capacity begin to give signals that it needs help. The heart beats faster, the brain is starving of oxygen and get foggy, irritable, anxious, depressed. If you or someone you know are suffering from headaches, migraines, sinus issues, brain fog, chronic fatigue, snoring, grinding teeth, fibromyalgia, call Dr. Whitley for a free consultation. He will take an x-ray of your throat to see if your tongue is properly aligned. For more info call Dr. Whitley at 540993-1091. Watch the video testimonies on Dr. Whitley's website www.drwaynewhitley.com
EEM for your precious peepers by christina ferber
Images from EEM Class Handouts Our eyes are the window to our soul, and we want to keep them healthy. Stress, age, and simple overuse can impact our vision, but luckily Eden Energy Medicine offers ways to get and keep our precious peepers doing their job and feeling good while doing it. Energy needs to have space to move for us to be balanced, and the area around the eyes is no exception. Doing the Crown Pull regularly makes space for clogged energy to release and the blood to circulate more efficiently. Start with your thumbs on your temples and your fingertips in the middle of your forehead. With pressure, stretch your forehead by moving your fingers to your temples. Repeat at your hairline and move over your head until you reach the base of your neck. Pull across it, and place your fingers behind your shoulders, squeeze them and pull your fingers over to the front. Take a deep breath and pull your hands off. Rubbing and Palming the eyes is another way to increase blood and energy flow, and it also helps with how the brain processes visual signals. When you wake up, give your eyes a nice, gentle rub. This supports your eyes by working with a meridian that is involved in eye health. Next palm your eyes by rubbing both of your hands together and shaking them off. Without touching the eyes, slightly cup your palms and place the heel of your hand on your cheekbones with the tips of your fingers resting at your hairline. Place your thumbs at your temples and cross your pinky fingers in the middle of your forehead. Hold this for about 1 to 3 minutes. You can also relax the energies that go through the eyes by holding other points around them. Place your thumbs at the bottom of each cheekbone and your fingers over the tops of your eyebrows (see image). Hold this for a few deep breaths. Tracing figure eights between the
eyes, as well as within your visual field, can help increase eye coordination and communication between the eyes and the brain. Make this motion as if you are drawing a pair of glasses between both eyes. The Tibetan Eye Chart offers a natural way to correct vision and eye coordination. It was designed by Tibetan monks, and you can use it to strengthen your eye muscles to improve vision if used often. The chart is attached, however you may want a larger version, so I suggest searching the internet to print one. Place it on a wall with the center at the height of your nose. Trace the image with your eyes moving from one dot to the next in a clockwise motion, and then in a counterclockwise motion. Next, move your eyes from the center red dot down each arm to the black dots, and then back to the red dot. Do each of these exercises first from a distance of four to six inches, and then again from about three feet away. If you wear glasses, do each exercise with your glasses on first, and then with them off. Keeping your eyes healthy also involves being sure to attend to them throughout the day. Give them new things to look at, especially if a computer is part of your regular scenery. Shift often from focusing on close things and things farther away. Move your head and scan the area with your eyes to keep them moving. There are amazing things to look at in this world of ours. Do these exercises regularly and hopefully, you can keep your eyes working so that you can continue to appreciate the scenery around us.
Christina Ferber is a Certified Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner. You can find out more atwww.itsallenergywellness.com
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
19
history’s stories
RELIGIOUS FREEDOM MONUMENT
OUR HERITAGE
A look at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center collection
By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks
venerable By John Reifenberg
Dr. Kurt Leidecker and I shared a common opinion that the Religious Freedom Monument is one of if not the most important monuments in the United States, for what actions it represents. We were friends up until his death in 1991 at the age of 89. He was a wellknown Professor at the University of Mary Washington and founder of the Thomas Jefferson Institute for the study of Religious Freedom. He was also the driving force in the relocation of the monument to its present-day location on Washington Avenue adjacent to the Mary Washington Monument in 1977. The Fredericksburg City Council in 1932 authorized the Monument to be built by local stonemason St. Clair Brooks, on George Street near the present War Memorial. There are two other monuments that are older, both of which are Jefferson’s tombstones. His original tombstone is so inscribed now located at the University of Missouri and his newer gravestone in Charlottesville at his home Monticello. Thomas Jefferson, Edmond Pendleton, Thomas Lee, George Mason and George Wythe met in Fredericksburg on January 13-17, 1777 with the intention of drafting a document for Religious Freedom for Virginia citizens. The document was to allow every man and woman the right to their own religious beliefs. It would take another nine years before the document would become a part of the Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom when it was voted on and passed by the Virginia General Assembly. The importance of this statute would be that it would become the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights. Thomas Jefferson always felt that this document along with drafting the Declaration of Independence and his founding of the University of Virginia his three greatest achievements during his life. Dr. Leidecker was very proud of the memorial and we together designed a medal for the 200th anniversary of the meeting in Fredericksburg. The medal was a limited edition of one-hundred cast by the local Wegner Metal Arts Foundry using the “lost wax process” in bronze. I have a Proof with the “0000” stamped on it number one was donated for display to the Fredericksburg Museum. There was a celebration with several hundred citizens and politicians in attendance. The City of Fredericksburg has a yearly event at the Monument with the local Knight of Columbus in attendance as they have done for many years. The celebration is an annual event in January each year. Visit the Monument it is easy to find and within walking distance of many local attractions. This is one monument that the entire United States should be proud of and it all began in Fredericksburg.
Venerable. The adjective is often tossed out. Many people and places of the region qualify for the moniker. As an example, all natives and many longtime residents fondly remember Fredericksburg Hardware. Knowledgeable, friendly service; and if you needed anything, they had it. Another, but current, institution: Roxbury Farm & Garden Center. In 1999, current manager Andy Lynn donated eight ledgers to the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center dating from 1929 to 1969. These caught my eye and being familiar with the place and some of the people, I looked closer. The Roxbury quest began without a clear agenda. The original idea was to provide a brief history of the Roxbury Farm & Garden Center by examining the ledgers and other “Roxbury” documents found at the Center. For many years, I had made the erroneous assumption that the current site was its only site. Therefore, I assumed that the 1929 ledger was for the current location. Shortly after opening a Pandora’s Box of disparate documentation, I asked General Manager Andy Lynn to come in for a sit down and help me sort through the labyrinth. He agreed, but after his departure, the footing was even less secure, as he provided me with a dizzying array of details. As for the businesses namesake, he mentioned a large farm in the region of Thornburg that was known as Roxbury. Searching the Center’s database produced many primary documents, and one of the first was an 1817 deed between Walker R. and Sarah Carter of the one part and Elizabeth H. Stanard of the other part for one eighth of a tract of land “lying and being in the County of Spotsylvania” and containing 1,534 acres, being known as “Roxbury”. Another document, of a nonprimary origin, indicates that Robert C.
Stanard, between 1825 and 1829, purchased previous Roxbury lands in order to bring it back to its former acreage. (I have purposely omitted certain other records in order to present an overview that I could understand and still be informative). Another Spotsylvania County court document from the archives, dated 1828, records a transaction between John Pratt Jr. of the County of Caroline and Robert Stanard for “an [illegible] interest in a tract of land called Roxbury situated in the County of Spotsylvania and containing fifteen hundred and eighty four acres”. Later, as recorded in 1852, a document was initiated in 1841 between the trustees of the Charity School of Fredericksburg and Robert G. Stanard. The document was recording a “mortgage ….and duly written to record…in the clerk’s office of Spottsylvania County Court conveying the tract therein mentioned called Roxbury”. (I did have to chuckle after reading the final paragraph of this document; “Reuben T. Thom Treasurer, by order of Trustees of Charity Scool of Fredericksburg”) The surface was barely scratched, and as can be seen through this brief inspection of the (mostly) primary documentation found in the Center, more questions arise than are answered. Lands are acquired, divided, reassembled, mortgaged, held as collateral, and more. With regret, I have yet to include any mention of the mill, or describe its location in the county. So please come by and initiate your own research into the story of “Roxbury”. Indeed, everyone is invited to the Center for a smorgasbord of gratifying research and enjoyment.
John Reifenberg is a CRHC Volunteer
DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF FERRIS BELMAN & MARIE CATLETT
Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer
Supporting Historic Preservation Since 1997 18
October 2017
Central Rappahannock Heritage Center
Virginia’s only Regional Archive 540~479~4116 1013 Princess Anne Street , FXBG
Front porch fredericksburg
The Heritage Center
Maury Commons 900 Barton St 540-373-3704; crhc@verizon.net
Fredericksburg
Renew
It’s All Energy
Wayne Whitley, DDS by Joan M. Geisler
WHAT IF your heart disease, high blood pressure, aches, pains, brain fog, chronic fatigue, IBS and more could be alleviated without medication? WHAT IF your child’s behavior problems, ADD, ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger, cutting, could be alleviated without medication? WHAT IF the root cause to your worse disease, ailment or dysfunction was all due to your tongue partially blocking your airway and causing you or your child not to breath optimally? Is that not the most amazing thought? WHAT IF it was true? WHAT IF there was a doctor right here in Fredericksburg that you could go to see if indeed this was your problem? Dr. Wayne Whitley is your answer. “Our bodies are walking miracles. What the medical field views as ‘symptoms’ are really warning signs and signals that something is wrong with our body,” says Dr. Whitley., “ warning signs that something else was wrong and not the disease itself? What a paradigm shift in our health care system that would be?” Dr. Whitley found the ORAL SYSTEM BALANCING helped him alleviate many of his ‘diseases, symptoms and ailments.’ And he is passionate to help you too. He creates a mouth piece to realign your tongue to get it out of the way so you can breathe.
Dr. Whitely believes that these ‘diseases, ailments, symptoms’ are the result of the body simply finding a coping mechanism because it is not getting enough oxygen. When our bodies are under stress or destress it responds with dumping adrenaline and cortisol so we have the ‘energy’ to fight or flight. If our bodies are not breathing properly and not getting optimum oxygen the same thing happens. The heart rate will increase resulting in high blood pressure which then triggers a slew of other ailments. A constant dumping of adrenaline and cortisol will eventually make us anxious, hyper, angry leading to hypertension, depression, ADD, ADHD. All because we are not breathing correctly. Imagine our mouth and throat and tongue like the Springfield Interchange. If any one of those bridges were damaged all the cars would have to compensate in order to maintain the traffic flow. What would happen to the side streets? They would get overloaded and damaged by handling more traffic than they were designed to handle. Same as our body. When we do not breath correctly and optimally, our body has to compensate and body parts and organs that were not designed to function at such capacity begin to give signals that it needs help. The heart beats faster, the brain is starving of oxygen and get foggy, irritable, anxious, depressed. If you or someone you know are suffering from headaches, migraines, sinus issues, brain fog, chronic fatigue, snoring, grinding teeth, fibromyalgia, call Dr. Whitley for a free consultation. He will take an x-ray of your throat to see if your tongue is properly aligned. For more info call Dr. Whitley at 540993-1091. Watch the video testimonies on Dr. Whitley's website www.drwaynewhitley.com
EEM for your precious peepers by christina ferber
Images from EEM Class Handouts Our eyes are the window to our soul, and we want to keep them healthy. Stress, age, and simple overuse can impact our vision, but luckily Eden Energy Medicine offers ways to get and keep our precious peepers doing their job and feeling good while doing it. Energy needs to have space to move for us to be balanced, and the area around the eyes is no exception. Doing the Crown Pull regularly makes space for clogged energy to release and the blood to circulate more efficiently. Start with your thumbs on your temples and your fingertips in the middle of your forehead. With pressure, stretch your forehead by moving your fingers to your temples. Repeat at your hairline and move over your head until you reach the base of your neck. Pull across it, and place your fingers behind your shoulders, squeeze them and pull your fingers over to the front. Take a deep breath and pull your hands off. Rubbing and Palming the eyes is another way to increase blood and energy flow, and it also helps with how the brain processes visual signals. When you wake up, give your eyes a nice, gentle rub. This supports your eyes by working with a meridian that is involved in eye health. Next palm your eyes by rubbing both of your hands together and shaking them off. Without touching the eyes, slightly cup your palms and place the heel of your hand on your cheekbones with the tips of your fingers resting at your hairline. Place your thumbs at your temples and cross your pinky fingers in the middle of your forehead. Hold this for about 1 to 3 minutes. You can also relax the energies that go through the eyes by holding other points around them. Place your thumbs at the bottom of each cheekbone and your fingers over the tops of your eyebrows (see image). Hold this for a few deep breaths. Tracing figure eights between the
eyes, as well as within your visual field, can help increase eye coordination and communication between the eyes and the brain. Make this motion as if you are drawing a pair of glasses between both eyes. The Tibetan Eye Chart offers a natural way to correct vision and eye coordination. It was designed by Tibetan monks, and you can use it to strengthen your eye muscles to improve vision if used often. The chart is attached, however you may want a larger version, so I suggest searching the internet to print one. Place it on a wall with the center at the height of your nose. Trace the image with your eyes moving from one dot to the next in a clockwise motion, and then in a counterclockwise motion. Next, move your eyes from the center red dot down each arm to the black dots, and then back to the red dot. Do each of these exercises first from a distance of four to six inches, and then again from about three feet away. If you wear glasses, do each exercise with your glasses on first, and then with them off. Keeping your eyes healthy also involves being sure to attend to them throughout the day. Give them new things to look at, especially if a computer is part of your regular scenery. Shift often from focusing on close things and things farther away. Move your head and scan the area with your eyes to keep them moving. There are amazing things to look at in this world of ours. Do these exercises regularly and hopefully, you can keep your eyes working so that you can continue to appreciate the scenery around us.
Christina Ferber is a Certified Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner. You can find out more atwww.itsallenergywellness.com
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
19
Senior Care life review By Karl Karch
Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service “Your pet becomes my pet while in my care, and I care a lot!” - Lexi (540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “lexi grogan’s pet sitting service” Prices: Dogs - $15 per canine per visit Cats - $12 per feline per visit
We are fortunate to live in such a historic city. Sadly, we are also living in turbulent and divisive times where attempts are made to rewrite, alter, or suppress history. So, you may be wondering how this relates to senior care. Regrettably, I know very little about my family. My father was born in Germany and came through Ellis Island in 1922 when he was eight. Having grown up in the Great Depression, my parents wanted to leave my sister and me what little money they had rather than spend it to improve their quality of life. While thankful, money is not a lasting legacy. A more priceless gift would have been passing on our family history and their life stories. I didn’t realize the importance of collecting family history until after my parents, aunts, and uncles all died. Now, I must rely on what my sister and cousins learned about our family. Genealogy can only go so far. It can help you learn about your ethnicity and distant relatives, but only by talking to your elder loved ones can you learn personal things about how your family lived. Every person has a story to tell and, if not captured, will be lost once they die. One of many rewards of owning an eldercare company is stated in our mission statement: “To enhance the lives of our clients and their families”. One way to do this is to help our clients reminisce about their lives. I’ll never forget how grateful the son of one of our clients was when, after his father’s death, our caregiver gave him the notebook she kept of his father’s stories that she captured over many months. He later told us he learned things from the notebook he never knew about his father and family. Large bodies of research found that telling stories about one’s life
20
October 2017
through a more formal practice, known as life reviews, has many benefits for seniors. Going through the process of reviewing one’s life can: improve selfesteem, decrease or prevent depression, improve cognitive function, socially engage people who have dementia, and may reduce chronic pain. Hospitals, hospices, and other settings for those very ill or close to death are using life reviews as dignity or reminiscence therapy to help bring closure to lives. For those who want some assistance, the website www.lifebio.com may be of interest and help by providing a template and online thought provoking questions. Or, to download a list of questions, go to www.legacyproject.org/guides/lifeintquest ions.pdf. As we approach the holiday season and spend time with loved ones, set aside some time away from football games and other distractions to discuss your family history. Capture some stories, happy or sad, funny or serious. Take time to write them down, or better yet, video or voice record them as they are told. Attach names and dates to all those pictures in boxes. Help your loved ones create a permanent historical record about their lives as well as pass on their wisdom and values to future generations who will gratefully say, as Bob Hope famously captured “Thanks for the Memories”.
Karl Karch is a local franchise owner of Home Instead Senior Care, a licensed home care organization providing personal care, companionship and home helper services in the Fredericksburg and Culpeper region.
Front porch fredericksburg
Emancipated Patients Nurse Practitioners By Patrick Neustatter, MD
Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!
There’s a bit of a legislative battle playing out in the field of primary care medicine in Virginia. A Battle between the good old boys of the Virginia legislature, and what I fancy are seen as a lot of over assertive women. The battle is over nurse practitioners and how much autonomy they should be allowed. Nurse practitioners (NP’s) are qualified and experienced nurses who have gone on to do masters or doctorate degrees in medical practice. They, and the other so called “extenders” (physicians assistants), function pretty much as doctors. And the vast majority are female.
SEEING IS BELIEVING When I was in practice in north Stafford we had two nurse practitioners in the office who were wonderful. To the point where no one wanted to come see those damned doctors. They wanted to see the motherly and empathetic NP’s. OK, there is the old saw about the things that make a doctor attractive, in descending order of importance being; availability; affordability; affability and finally ability. In other words you can be a popular primary care provider without being too competent. But this was not the case with these two NP’s. Not only were these fine ladies affable, they were able as well. Almost to the point where they were better informed than a doctor.
CAN YOU IMAGINE THAT? Hanging With The Good Old Boys Last Monday night I was invited to a reception organized by the Fredericksburg region of the Virginia Council of Nurse Practitioners. Invited by The Moss Clinic’s wonderful new NP, Cathy Duncan (above with Patrick), who is the chairperson for government relations of the VCNP. The purpose was to bend the ears of the smattering of Virginia legislators who attended about “independent
practice authority” in Virginia. Currently NP’s in Virginia have to have a “collaborative agreement” with a physician. That is, they have to have a physician present or available, to steer them right. Obviously these super qualified nurses are a bunch of loose cannons in the eyes of the Virginia legislators. And, as the site nurse.org reports, rather indignantly, not only must they suffer the ignominy of being overseen by a doctor, but “many nurse practitioners must pay significant consulting fees in order to receive mandated supervision from physicians.” There is push back from doctors about this move to liberate the NP’s however. The chairman of American Association of Family Physicians, Dr. Daniel Wergin says “we believe that independent practice authority within the VA health system is not the answer,” and without the over site of that supervising physician, “patients' safety would be at risk." However, 21 states and the district of Columbia seem to have seen the light and have granted full practice rights. And there are accusations of this being nothing more than a turf war. “There have been numerous studies done comparing physicians and nurse practitioners, and they’ve all come out with NP’s being equal, or better” Cathy told me. It’s not like the doctors are going to go out of business. It is very likely you have experienced what everyone complains about so bitterly, that is attributed shortage of doctors. That you have to wait weeks for a doctors appointment, and then your consultation lasts a matter of nano-seconds. There are dour predictions things will get worse. There will be a shortfall of 43,000 primary care doctors by 2030 and 105,000 doctors as a whole. But “physician groups are really opposing this”, and, because they have more money and more legislative backing due to having lobbyists, “they have a louder voice” Cathy told me. Frankly, I’m not surprised. If the four legislators that attended were anything to go by, we are being governed by a bunch of good old boys who I would expect to back doctors rather than what I’m sure are likely to be seen as a bunch of pushy women. Patrick Neustatter is the Medical Director of the Moss Free Clinic.
Mind Your Mind if i die before i wake... By Barbara Deal Even now that childhood prayer makes me shudder…Eeeeek. That is MY soul. Nobody can have THAT! Ah, the child is father to the man, as the poet says. We continue dreading our death, escaping with energetic endeavors to extend life. Deceptions that we can run far enough, bike long enough, lift weights heavy enough chase off arthritic crippling in lengthy daily water classes? There is a thought that the American obsession with grizzly horror movies and bloodthirsty crime shows is related to our denial about death. Years ago, a workshop speaker suggested that only with an American Rio Carnaval would our culture have less violence in the streets and against one another. Death must be acknowledged. In Dr.s’ office nowadays, one is confronted with questions about DNRs and powers of attorney. With that you are not only required to FACE death but also select/reject options for objectionable procedures prolonging life. No thank you! I have been known to say to the nurse at the bedside of a my loved one in ICU. I did not resist the urge to say “how dare you…. don’t you ever come in here again with that clipboard”. Yes ,there are moral and spiritual beliefs that would prevent interfering with Divine Will or wishes. Read no further if you are there. If not, please consider this. Deciding to take this on, you will do everyone a great favor. Not to do so leaves your loved ones with the terrible weight of choosing for you. The medical team similarly hamstrung. Hospice experts indicate it is more difficult legally to stop maintaining procedures than not to implement them to begin with.
It’s always more fun in the Scenter of Town!
Essential Oils Liquid Herbs Reiki Reflexology Aromatherapy Custom Blending Aroma-Therapeutic Massage Harmonic Resonance Therapy Products ~ Services ~ Classes 907 Charles Street, Downtown thescenteroftown.com
Living Will. Advance Directive. Icky. Sticky. (don’t forget to breathe here). What are the options? Yeah, that keeps it in the cerebral realm. I ran across “The Five Wishes” via Google which bridges these hesitancies. There are several versions of this, eg. just a simple list of medical interventions you want or do not; identifying whom you want to act in your behalf should you be unable to make those decisions; comfort options; Other 5 Wishes formats provide a gentle introduction to this journey. You can issue last thoughts and feelings about your life, and your people, loved and estranged. More details of comfort, beyond pain control, (pillows or a cool cloth on your forehead, combing your hair, stroking your face) make it quite vivid. There are questions leading you to making known what your intentions have always been toward your life and people, what you meant and how you succeeded or failed. Suggestions about asking to be forgive.Also forgiving others for specific hurts I like life review opportunities. Th at“whole person”: the clammy, gritty, wet body stuff that we associate with death, and that juicy, snuggly as well as icy, hot, messy human life we have. That invitation to say “those things” in writing that you have not said, or maybe not enough to loved ones and yourself. A structure for looking at yourself with tenderness. Bidding that for your last moments, you be that Self you intended. Articulate the discoveries, your created understandings. Label that life and love circle that you participated in. State your wishes.Let that be your selfless legacy. For more info on % Wishesm www.agingwithdignity.org
The Natural Path Holistic Health Center
~Nature’s Sunshine Products ~Quantitative Fluid Analysis ~VoiceBio Analysis ~ionSpa Foot Detox ~Zyto Bioscan Compass Natural Products for Health & Wellness Barbara Bergquist, CTN Board Certified Traditional Naturopath
891-6200
www.thenaturalpath.us
4413 Lafayette Blvd. Fredericksburg
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
21
Senior Care life review By Karl Karch
Lexi Grogan’s Pet Sitting Service “Your pet becomes my pet while in my care, and I care a lot!” - Lexi (540-903-0437; lexig0892@gmail.com) On facebook as “lexi grogan’s pet sitting service” Prices: Dogs - $15 per canine per visit Cats - $12 per feline per visit
We are fortunate to live in such a historic city. Sadly, we are also living in turbulent and divisive times where attempts are made to rewrite, alter, or suppress history. So, you may be wondering how this relates to senior care. Regrettably, I know very little about my family. My father was born in Germany and came through Ellis Island in 1922 when he was eight. Having grown up in the Great Depression, my parents wanted to leave my sister and me what little money they had rather than spend it to improve their quality of life. While thankful, money is not a lasting legacy. A more priceless gift would have been passing on our family history and their life stories. I didn’t realize the importance of collecting family history until after my parents, aunts, and uncles all died. Now, I must rely on what my sister and cousins learned about our family. Genealogy can only go so far. It can help you learn about your ethnicity and distant relatives, but only by talking to your elder loved ones can you learn personal things about how your family lived. Every person has a story to tell and, if not captured, will be lost once they die. One of many rewards of owning an eldercare company is stated in our mission statement: “To enhance the lives of our clients and their families”. One way to do this is to help our clients reminisce about their lives. I’ll never forget how grateful the son of one of our clients was when, after his father’s death, our caregiver gave him the notebook she kept of his father’s stories that she captured over many months. He later told us he learned things from the notebook he never knew about his father and family. Large bodies of research found that telling stories about one’s life
20
October 2017
through a more formal practice, known as life reviews, has many benefits for seniors. Going through the process of reviewing one’s life can: improve selfesteem, decrease or prevent depression, improve cognitive function, socially engage people who have dementia, and may reduce chronic pain. Hospitals, hospices, and other settings for those very ill or close to death are using life reviews as dignity or reminiscence therapy to help bring closure to lives. For those who want some assistance, the website www.lifebio.com may be of interest and help by providing a template and online thought provoking questions. Or, to download a list of questions, go to www.legacyproject.org/guides/lifeintquest ions.pdf. As we approach the holiday season and spend time with loved ones, set aside some time away from football games and other distractions to discuss your family history. Capture some stories, happy or sad, funny or serious. Take time to write them down, or better yet, video or voice record them as they are told. Attach names and dates to all those pictures in boxes. Help your loved ones create a permanent historical record about their lives as well as pass on their wisdom and values to future generations who will gratefully say, as Bob Hope famously captured “Thanks for the Memories”.
Karl Karch is a local franchise owner of Home Instead Senior Care, a licensed home care organization providing personal care, companionship and home helper services in the Fredericksburg and Culpeper region.
Front porch fredericksburg
Emancipated Patients Nurse Practitioners By Patrick Neustatter, MD
Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!
There’s a bit of a legislative battle playing out in the field of primary care medicine in Virginia. A Battle between the good old boys of the Virginia legislature, and what I fancy are seen as a lot of over assertive women. The battle is over nurse practitioners and how much autonomy they should be allowed. Nurse practitioners (NP’s) are qualified and experienced nurses who have gone on to do masters or doctorate degrees in medical practice. They, and the other so called “extenders” (physicians assistants), function pretty much as doctors. And the vast majority are female.
SEEING IS BELIEVING When I was in practice in north Stafford we had two nurse practitioners in the office who were wonderful. To the point where no one wanted to come see those damned doctors. They wanted to see the motherly and empathetic NP’s. OK, there is the old saw about the things that make a doctor attractive, in descending order of importance being; availability; affordability; affability and finally ability. In other words you can be a popular primary care provider without being too competent. But this was not the case with these two NP’s. Not only were these fine ladies affable, they were able as well. Almost to the point where they were better informed than a doctor.
CAN YOU IMAGINE THAT? Hanging With The Good Old Boys Last Monday night I was invited to a reception organized by the Fredericksburg region of the Virginia Council of Nurse Practitioners. Invited by The Moss Clinic’s wonderful new NP, Cathy Duncan (above with Patrick), who is the chairperson for government relations of the VCNP. The purpose was to bend the ears of the smattering of Virginia legislators who attended about “independent
practice authority” in Virginia. Currently NP’s in Virginia have to have a “collaborative agreement” with a physician. That is, they have to have a physician present or available, to steer them right. Obviously these super qualified nurses are a bunch of loose cannons in the eyes of the Virginia legislators. And, as the site nurse.org reports, rather indignantly, not only must they suffer the ignominy of being overseen by a doctor, but “many nurse practitioners must pay significant consulting fees in order to receive mandated supervision from physicians.” There is push back from doctors about this move to liberate the NP’s however. The chairman of American Association of Family Physicians, Dr. Daniel Wergin says “we believe that independent practice authority within the VA health system is not the answer,” and without the over site of that supervising physician, “patients' safety would be at risk." However, 21 states and the district of Columbia seem to have seen the light and have granted full practice rights. And there are accusations of this being nothing more than a turf war. “There have been numerous studies done comparing physicians and nurse practitioners, and they’ve all come out with NP’s being equal, or better” Cathy told me. It’s not like the doctors are going to go out of business. It is very likely you have experienced what everyone complains about so bitterly, that is attributed shortage of doctors. That you have to wait weeks for a doctors appointment, and then your consultation lasts a matter of nano-seconds. There are dour predictions things will get worse. There will be a shortfall of 43,000 primary care doctors by 2030 and 105,000 doctors as a whole. But “physician groups are really opposing this”, and, because they have more money and more legislative backing due to having lobbyists, “they have a louder voice” Cathy told me. Frankly, I’m not surprised. If the four legislators that attended were anything to go by, we are being governed by a bunch of good old boys who I would expect to back doctors rather than what I’m sure are likely to be seen as a bunch of pushy women. Patrick Neustatter is the Medical Director of the Moss Free Clinic.
Mind Your Mind if i die before i wake... By Barbara Deal Even now that childhood prayer makes me shudder…Eeeeek. That is MY soul. Nobody can have THAT! Ah, the child is father to the man, as the poet says. We continue dreading our death, escaping with energetic endeavors to extend life. Deceptions that we can run far enough, bike long enough, lift weights heavy enough chase off arthritic crippling in lengthy daily water classes? There is a thought that the American obsession with grizzly horror movies and bloodthirsty crime shows is related to our denial about death. Years ago, a workshop speaker suggested that only with an American Rio Carnaval would our culture have less violence in the streets and against one another. Death must be acknowledged. In Dr.s’ office nowadays, one is confronted with questions about DNRs and powers of attorney. With that you are not only required to FACE death but also select/reject options for objectionable procedures prolonging life. No thank you! I have been known to say to the nurse at the bedside of a my loved one in ICU. I did not resist the urge to say “how dare you…. don’t you ever come in here again with that clipboard”. Yes ,there are moral and spiritual beliefs that would prevent interfering with Divine Will or wishes. Read no further if you are there. If not, please consider this. Deciding to take this on, you will do everyone a great favor. Not to do so leaves your loved ones with the terrible weight of choosing for you. The medical team similarly hamstrung. Hospice experts indicate it is more difficult legally to stop maintaining procedures than not to implement them to begin with.
It’s always more fun in the Scenter of Town!
Essential Oils Liquid Herbs Reiki Reflexology Aromatherapy Custom Blending Aroma-Therapeutic Massage Harmonic Resonance Therapy Products ~ Services ~ Classes 907 Charles Street, Downtown thescenteroftown.com
Living Will. Advance Directive. Icky. Sticky. (don’t forget to breathe here). What are the options? Yeah, that keeps it in the cerebral realm. I ran across “The Five Wishes” via Google which bridges these hesitancies. There are several versions of this, eg. just a simple list of medical interventions you want or do not; identifying whom you want to act in your behalf should you be unable to make those decisions; comfort options; Other 5 Wishes formats provide a gentle introduction to this journey. You can issue last thoughts and feelings about your life, and your people, loved and estranged. More details of comfort, beyond pain control, (pillows or a cool cloth on your forehead, combing your hair, stroking your face) make it quite vivid. There are questions leading you to making known what your intentions have always been toward your life and people, what you meant and how you succeeded or failed. Suggestions about asking to be forgive.Also forgiving others for specific hurts I like life review opportunities. Th at“whole person”: the clammy, gritty, wet body stuff that we associate with death, and that juicy, snuggly as well as icy, hot, messy human life we have. That invitation to say “those things” in writing that you have not said, or maybe not enough to loved ones and yourself. A structure for looking at yourself with tenderness. Bidding that for your last moments, you be that Self you intended. Articulate the discoveries, your created understandings. Label that life and love circle that you participated in. State your wishes.Let that be your selfless legacy. For more info on % Wishesm www.agingwithdignity.org
The Natural Path Holistic Health Center
~Nature’s Sunshine Products ~Quantitative Fluid Analysis ~VoiceBio Analysis ~ionSpa Foot Detox ~Zyto Bioscan Compass Natural Products for Health & Wellness Barbara Bergquist, CTN Board Certified Traditional Naturopath
891-6200
www.thenaturalpath.us
4413 Lafayette Blvd. Fredericksburg
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
21
Who’s Lucky?
Life in Motion
What a Community Nurse Does
I’d like to introduce Gray Dog Yoga
by Kathie Bramlette
By rich gaudio, pt & bobbi stoakes, lpta, ryt-200
As I reflect back on my life, I realize I have 'met' a series of yogis in my life despite never having done yoga until 2016. Yogi Bear, the classic 'picinic-basket' chasing cartoon bear (and his sidekick 'Boo Boo"), is the first yogi I can remember encountering on life's journey. Growing up in New York City, in a Yankeepinstripe household, it was not long before I began to learn about the legendary catcher (and short term manager) Yogi Berra! These yogis are both very charismatic fellas and have developed quite a following over the years, yet they still lack something when I think about them in comparison to Yogi Bobbi Stoakes. Bobbi and I met years ago when we provided outpatient neurological physical therapy at Mary Washington Healthcare. As the physical therapist (PT) it was my job to evaluate patients with various neurological conditions, like strokes, Parkinson's, brain injuries, MS, etc, and develop a plan of treatment for them. Bobbi is a licensed physical therapy assistant (LPTA) and her role was to deliver the plan of care to the patient. I learned very quickly that Bobbi would
22
October 2017
deliver the plan with the patient. Bobbi secured my trust and the trust of our patients very quickly as her years of experience, calm demeanor, and deep compassion oozed from her pores and manifest in all aspects of her hands on care. My professional respect and personal affinity for Bobbi grew quickly and deeply; I was honored when she confided to me that she was going to pursue her dream of becoming a certified yogi! Over the past several years, Bobbi turned that dream into a reality which is now called Gray Dog Yoga! I asked Bobbi if I could share her story with the readers of the Front Porch. She humbly agreed. So, I'd like to introduce you to Yogi Bobbi and Gray Dog Yoga... ~ Rich Gaudio
Yoga began as a way to change my exercise routine and do something different with friends. As I practiced more frequently, it was an adventure and challenge to try some cool looking poses. With more yoga, I felt stronger and more flexible. Over time, my yoga practice went deeper into mindfulness, meditation, body awareness, stress reduction, and quieting my busy brain. In 2015, my family experienced a great loss and I leaned into my yoga for support, mental clarity, stress reduction and rest. My long-time career has been in healthcare as a Physical Therapy Assistant. I’ve had the opportunity to work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, home health, and even water therapy. Though I’ve always enjoyed helping people recover from injuries, surgeries and disease, I always felt that I was meant to do something more and different. Between my deepened appreciation for yoga on a personal level
Front porch fredericksburg
and deep desire to assist others on their path to greater health and wellness, I enrolled in Yoga Teacher Training at Dragonfly Yoga Studio in downtown Fredericksburg. In June 2016, I completed 200 hours of training, earned my RYT-200 certification and registered with Yoga Alliance as an Instructor. The name Gray Dog Yoga was inspired by love for my three beautiful gray dogs – two Weimaraners and a Pitbull. Their lives resemble my yoga practice: some days it’s about rest and relaxation, some days it’s about fun and exercise. It’s always about being in the moment and finding joy. Rich Gaudio and I met as coworkers in the Physical Therapy profession. We often discussed healthcare and resources for patients who had completed physical therapy. We questioned “What is next after medical interventions?”. We found a common interest in building a community that offered health and wellness education, exercise and physical movement, and a positive support system. People are more accountable to staying active and maintaining healthy lifestyle changes when we have friends, neighbors and family as partners in those changes. When Rich launched the BetterU Program at Fusion Physical Therapy I was very excited by the invitation to offer yoga! I teach yoga classes at BetterU that focus on strengthening the body, gently stretching, improving balance, building confidence in moving, and relaxation. It is an all-levels adult class, which means it’s designed for those of ages 18+ with little to no yoga experience, for those who practice often and for everyone in between. Yoga meets you where you are – there’s no judgement. You don’t even need to get down on the floor to do yoga with us! I look forward to growing my collaboration with BetterU as a yoga instructor. Even though it’s not a typical yoga studio, it is a fantastic environment that allows me to bring yoga to people where they are. So grab a friend, spouse or neighbor and come join us! ~ Bobbi Stoakes
ble at Availa n.com Amazo
.Meet the luckiest people in Fredericksburg! They have a Registered Nurse in their community! Hazel Hill Apartments at 100 Princess Anne Street has had a Community Nurse since 1999, at the request of the residents. Hazel Hill has a diverse population of about 400, including immigrants from Afghanistan and Africa who began arriving in Fredericksburg in 2009. Because rent is based on lowincome this community is an affordable alternative to other housing in the city. The Hazel Hill Healthcare Project (HHHP), a grant and donation-supported non-profit, has been embedded at Hazel Hill providing access to medical and dental care, and connections to local social service agencies. The mission statement
of “Better Health through Education” guides the purpose of this project. How does a registered nurse benefit a low-income community? A community nurse is a combination of a public health nurse and a home health nurse in that she provides house calls and office visits to educate, advocate, and promote wellness and better health. The nurse educates residents about chronic disease, good nutrition, healthier lifestyle, use of medications, dental hygiene, and more. She counsels one-on-one or in classes with outside The nurse’s ability to give speakers. individual attention is the key to making good healthcare decisions. If “Rhonda” is feeling ill, she will consult the nurse, and get an opinion on
what to do. The nurse will find her a physician, or call her physician for an appointment, provide a taxi voucher for transportation, and await her return to review new medications and the prescribed course of treatment. This advocacy and support gives “Rhonda” confidence that she can manage her illness. The nurse also manages a community garden for the intrepid gardeners to grow a myriad of vegetables and fruit. The nurse provides classes demonstrating the use of the bounty of the gardens, and attendees learn to cook using different approaches to create new dishes. This produce also supplies healthy choices for everyday use and fills the gap in grocery costs. Under the nurse’s supervision, HHHP sends 10-15 kids from this community to Day Camp at the Massad YMCA every year, including free transportation on the Y bus. Together with a local business (EOIR Technologies), the nurse also sponsors Secret Santa for Seniors and Adult Singles where 50-60 eligible recipients are presented a gift bag for Christmas.
Of course, this care from the nurse would not be possible without her contact with the social service agencies in Fredericksburg which also aid low-income residents of the city. She partners with these agencies to provide mental health care, child development and child wellness care, women’s healthy exams, vaccinations, adult in-home aides, benefits and medical insurance, meals and protection from homelessness. The community at Hazel Hill Apartments thrives because of the diversity of the residents and what they bring to each other in their daily lives. The community nursing program thrives because of the trust and cooperation of nurse and resident, and the confidence to teach and learn. So, who’s lucky? Aren’t we all!
Kathie Bramlette, RN is a Community Nurse at theHazel Hill Healthcare Project
Rich Gaudio is the PT Clinic Operator at Fusion Physical Therapy, Rich can be reached on www.facebook.com/FusionPTSpotsy/, . (540) 710-0100 Or, agewellvirginia@gmail.com
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
23
Who’s Lucky?
Life in Motion
What a Community Nurse Does
I’d like to introduce Gray Dog Yoga
by Kathie Bramlette
By rich gaudio, pt & bobbi stoakes, lpta, ryt-200
As I reflect back on my life, I realize I have 'met' a series of yogis in my life despite never having done yoga until 2016. Yogi Bear, the classic 'picinic-basket' chasing cartoon bear (and his sidekick 'Boo Boo"), is the first yogi I can remember encountering on life's journey. Growing up in New York City, in a Yankeepinstripe household, it was not long before I began to learn about the legendary catcher (and short term manager) Yogi Berra! These yogis are both very charismatic fellas and have developed quite a following over the years, yet they still lack something when I think about them in comparison to Yogi Bobbi Stoakes. Bobbi and I met years ago when we provided outpatient neurological physical therapy at Mary Washington Healthcare. As the physical therapist (PT) it was my job to evaluate patients with various neurological conditions, like strokes, Parkinson's, brain injuries, MS, etc, and develop a plan of treatment for them. Bobbi is a licensed physical therapy assistant (LPTA) and her role was to deliver the plan of care to the patient. I learned very quickly that Bobbi would
22
October 2017
deliver the plan with the patient. Bobbi secured my trust and the trust of our patients very quickly as her years of experience, calm demeanor, and deep compassion oozed from her pores and manifest in all aspects of her hands on care. My professional respect and personal affinity for Bobbi grew quickly and deeply; I was honored when she confided to me that she was going to pursue her dream of becoming a certified yogi! Over the past several years, Bobbi turned that dream into a reality which is now called Gray Dog Yoga! I asked Bobbi if I could share her story with the readers of the Front Porch. She humbly agreed. So, I'd like to introduce you to Yogi Bobbi and Gray Dog Yoga... ~ Rich Gaudio
Yoga began as a way to change my exercise routine and do something different with friends. As I practiced more frequently, it was an adventure and challenge to try some cool looking poses. With more yoga, I felt stronger and more flexible. Over time, my yoga practice went deeper into mindfulness, meditation, body awareness, stress reduction, and quieting my busy brain. In 2015, my family experienced a great loss and I leaned into my yoga for support, mental clarity, stress reduction and rest. My long-time career has been in healthcare as a Physical Therapy Assistant. I’ve had the opportunity to work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, home health, and even water therapy. Though I’ve always enjoyed helping people recover from injuries, surgeries and disease, I always felt that I was meant to do something more and different. Between my deepened appreciation for yoga on a personal level
Front porch fredericksburg
and deep desire to assist others on their path to greater health and wellness, I enrolled in Yoga Teacher Training at Dragonfly Yoga Studio in downtown Fredericksburg. In June 2016, I completed 200 hours of training, earned my RYT-200 certification and registered with Yoga Alliance as an Instructor. The name Gray Dog Yoga was inspired by love for my three beautiful gray dogs – two Weimaraners and a Pitbull. Their lives resemble my yoga practice: some days it’s about rest and relaxation, some days it’s about fun and exercise. It’s always about being in the moment and finding joy. Rich Gaudio and I met as coworkers in the Physical Therapy profession. We often discussed healthcare and resources for patients who had completed physical therapy. We questioned “What is next after medical interventions?”. We found a common interest in building a community that offered health and wellness education, exercise and physical movement, and a positive support system. People are more accountable to staying active and maintaining healthy lifestyle changes when we have friends, neighbors and family as partners in those changes. When Rich launched the BetterU Program at Fusion Physical Therapy I was very excited by the invitation to offer yoga! I teach yoga classes at BetterU that focus on strengthening the body, gently stretching, improving balance, building confidence in moving, and relaxation. It is an all-levels adult class, which means it’s designed for those of ages 18+ with little to no yoga experience, for those who practice often and for everyone in between. Yoga meets you where you are – there’s no judgement. You don’t even need to get down on the floor to do yoga with us! I look forward to growing my collaboration with BetterU as a yoga instructor. Even though it’s not a typical yoga studio, it is a fantastic environment that allows me to bring yoga to people where they are. So grab a friend, spouse or neighbor and come join us! ~ Bobbi Stoakes
ble at Availa n.com Amazo
.Meet the luckiest people in Fredericksburg! They have a Registered Nurse in their community! Hazel Hill Apartments at 100 Princess Anne Street has had a Community Nurse since 1999, at the request of the residents. Hazel Hill has a diverse population of about 400, including immigrants from Afghanistan and Africa who began arriving in Fredericksburg in 2009. Because rent is based on lowincome this community is an affordable alternative to other housing in the city. The Hazel Hill Healthcare Project (HHHP), a grant and donation-supported non-profit, has been embedded at Hazel Hill providing access to medical and dental care, and connections to local social service agencies. The mission statement
of “Better Health through Education” guides the purpose of this project. How does a registered nurse benefit a low-income community? A community nurse is a combination of a public health nurse and a home health nurse in that she provides house calls and office visits to educate, advocate, and promote wellness and better health. The nurse educates residents about chronic disease, good nutrition, healthier lifestyle, use of medications, dental hygiene, and more. She counsels one-on-one or in classes with outside The nurse’s ability to give speakers. individual attention is the key to making good healthcare decisions. If “Rhonda” is feeling ill, she will consult the nurse, and get an opinion on
what to do. The nurse will find her a physician, or call her physician for an appointment, provide a taxi voucher for transportation, and await her return to review new medications and the prescribed course of treatment. This advocacy and support gives “Rhonda” confidence that she can manage her illness. The nurse also manages a community garden for the intrepid gardeners to grow a myriad of vegetables and fruit. The nurse provides classes demonstrating the use of the bounty of the gardens, and attendees learn to cook using different approaches to create new dishes. This produce also supplies healthy choices for everyday use and fills the gap in grocery costs. Under the nurse’s supervision, HHHP sends 10-15 kids from this community to Day Camp at the Massad YMCA every year, including free transportation on the Y bus. Together with a local business (EOIR Technologies), the nurse also sponsors Secret Santa for Seniors and Adult Singles where 50-60 eligible recipients are presented a gift bag for Christmas.
Of course, this care from the nurse would not be possible without her contact with the social service agencies in Fredericksburg which also aid low-income residents of the city. She partners with these agencies to provide mental health care, child development and child wellness care, women’s healthy exams, vaccinations, adult in-home aides, benefits and medical insurance, meals and protection from homelessness. The community at Hazel Hill Apartments thrives because of the diversity of the residents and what they bring to each other in their daily lives. The community nursing program thrives because of the trust and cooperation of nurse and resident, and the confidence to teach and learn. So, who’s lucky? Aren’t we all!
Kathie Bramlette, RN is a Community Nurse at theHazel Hill Healthcare Project
Rich Gaudio is the PT Clinic Operator at Fusion Physical Therapy, Rich can be reached on www.facebook.com/FusionPTSpotsy/, . (540) 710-0100 Or, agewellvirginia@gmail.com
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
23
Art in the Burg
Stories
of fredericksburg
Wayne’s World
Barbara
By Suzanne Scherr Just in time for Halloween, portraits of pop icons and fictitious characters will cover the featured show walls in Art First Gallery in downtown Fredericksburg. With a nod to television's influence on his artistic direction, artist Wayne Russell named his show after Saturday Night Live's "oddball rocker" skits. Growing up as an only child may be part of the reason that Russell creates a world with imaginary and larger-thanlife characters. Growing up near the intersection of the Chesapeake Bay and the Patuxent River provided more subjects, including boats and sea life. A forty year Fredericksburg resident, Russell shows his oil and acrylic paintings, as well as photographs and silk screens, in Fredericksburg and Southern Maryland galleries, restaurants and stores. Last year, he began sponsoring a semiannual art event, the Kingston Creek Art Fest, at his boyhood home in California, Maryland. Recognized artists Eduardo King, N.D. Jones and Wegman Metal Arts of Fredericksburg, Mary Lou Troutman of Southern Maryland, and others, have participated. After receiving a Bachelors of Science in Math and a Masters in Computer Science from Virginia Tech, Russell spent many years as a computer scientist and network designer. The time for the art that had engaged him since
Name This House
I got so tired of hearing people say ‘I don’t want to give them money because they’ll just use it on this, that, and the other thing.’ So I thought…how can I work around this? My daughter and I came up with the idea of getting McDonald’s gift cards and keeping them in the car so that when we see somebody who needs something we can give them a card and they can go into McDonald’s and legitimately have money so that if they need food they can get food or coffee and use the restroom or do whatever they need to do and nobody can do anything about it.
“Mermaid”, Wayne Russell childhood was very limited. However, seven years ago he picked up his brushes, attended art workshops and began taking commissions. He credits a fascination for precision for the unlikely switch from computer networks and programming to portraiture. Wayne’s World Art First Gallery, 824 Caroline St Oct 4-3 31
Barbara is a Mary Kay sales Director and has served at Micah in many different capacities for about 7 years. She has been named “special ops” because there is nowhere she hasn’t helped and now she has transitioned from helping clients to helping staff keep their lives organized. Barbara does it all, and here is what she has to say:
Brush Strokes Gallery All-M Member Exhibit Throughout October, the artists of Brush Strokes Gallery will present their finest, unique creations in the gallery's annual all-m member exhibit. One-of-a-kind artwork, infused with emotion, talent, and personality includes photography, innovative jewelry, fused glass art, and original paintings in all media. Meet the artists at the Opening Reception, October 6, 6-9p
Art is a Gift from the Heart
“I came into this a little afraid of the whole homeless thing. Like so many people, I didn’t understand it at all and I had this horrific preconception. I came into Micah and it hardly took me any time at all to realize…Wow! They’re no different…their life has just taken a turn that thank goodness mine hasn’t taken…but it could.
It was so wild because we had just gotten a bunch of gift cards and put them in the car…and we were just looking for homeless people to give them to. So we saw this guy and I said okay we’re just going to test this out. So we gave him the gift card and he was soooo grateful. I thought ‘gosh, that felt good and it was so easy.’ So my first day at Micah…who comes in that door but that same guy! And he recognized me! He said ‘you are the angel who gave me that card. You have no idea how much I needed that right that minute!’ It was a total God thing
win downtown gift certificate Identify this mystery house and you could win a gift certificate from a downtown merchant. Here’s how: Email frntprch@aol.com, Subject: mystery house, Identify house address, Your name, address, email. The poem below is a hint of the location of the mystery house. Good Luck!
Last Month’s House: 210 Sophia Street The Winner of a Whittingham Gift Certificate is Dave Spacil
Past Glory Oh you elegant girl, way past your prime some say, what do they know you mouth, to me it is a beautiful day. My family built me here to stay, the finest products of our time, reflecting good taste and means. Our family store was advertised, by my lovely interior, and the location was superior. Tucked away,at the base of the school, I lingered deteriorating for years, now restored,loved again, couldn't be happier.
It’s just awesome the things that I have learned and the people I have met. It’s just the little teeny things that can maybe make a difference.” Submitted by Micah Ecumenical Ministries, Contact 540-479-4116; www.dolovewalk.net; facebook
Artists: Beverley Coates Lynn Abbott Penny Parrish “Bronze-G Garnet Artifact Necklace” Michele Milano
Watch for Beverley Coates Feature Show in Nov. @ Brush Strokes Gallery Daily hours 10 to 6.
“Autum Leaves Feelin the Breeze” Peggy Wickham
24
October 2017
Front porch fredericksburg
Artist on site Saturdays
810 Caroline Street, Downtown Fredericksburg front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
25
Art in the Burg
Stories
of fredericksburg
Wayne’s World
Barbara
By Suzanne Scherr Just in time for Halloween, portraits of pop icons and fictitious characters will cover the featured show walls in Art First Gallery in downtown Fredericksburg. With a nod to television's influence on his artistic direction, artist Wayne Russell named his show after Saturday Night Live's "oddball rocker" skits. Growing up as an only child may be part of the reason that Russell creates a world with imaginary and larger-thanlife characters. Growing up near the intersection of the Chesapeake Bay and the Patuxent River provided more subjects, including boats and sea life. A forty year Fredericksburg resident, Russell shows his oil and acrylic paintings, as well as photographs and silk screens, in Fredericksburg and Southern Maryland galleries, restaurants and stores. Last year, he began sponsoring a semiannual art event, the Kingston Creek Art Fest, at his boyhood home in California, Maryland. Recognized artists Eduardo King, N.D. Jones and Wegman Metal Arts of Fredericksburg, Mary Lou Troutman of Southern Maryland, and others, have participated. After receiving a Bachelors of Science in Math and a Masters in Computer Science from Virginia Tech, Russell spent many years as a computer scientist and network designer. The time for the art that had engaged him since
Name This House
I got so tired of hearing people say ‘I don’t want to give them money because they’ll just use it on this, that, and the other thing.’ So I thought…how can I work around this? My daughter and I came up with the idea of getting McDonald’s gift cards and keeping them in the car so that when we see somebody who needs something we can give them a card and they can go into McDonald’s and legitimately have money so that if they need food they can get food or coffee and use the restroom or do whatever they need to do and nobody can do anything about it.
“Mermaid”, Wayne Russell childhood was very limited. However, seven years ago he picked up his brushes, attended art workshops and began taking commissions. He credits a fascination for precision for the unlikely switch from computer networks and programming to portraiture. Wayne’s World Art First Gallery, 824 Caroline St Oct 4-3 31
Barbara is a Mary Kay sales Director and has served at Micah in many different capacities for about 7 years. She has been named “special ops” because there is nowhere she hasn’t helped and now she has transitioned from helping clients to helping staff keep their lives organized. Barbara does it all, and here is what she has to say:
Brush Strokes Gallery All-M Member Exhibit Throughout October, the artists of Brush Strokes Gallery will present their finest, unique creations in the gallery's annual all-m member exhibit. One-of-a-kind artwork, infused with emotion, talent, and personality includes photography, innovative jewelry, fused glass art, and original paintings in all media. Meet the artists at the Opening Reception, October 6, 6-9p
Art is a Gift from the Heart
“I came into this a little afraid of the whole homeless thing. Like so many people, I didn’t understand it at all and I had this horrific preconception. I came into Micah and it hardly took me any time at all to realize…Wow! They’re no different…their life has just taken a turn that thank goodness mine hasn’t taken…but it could.
It was so wild because we had just gotten a bunch of gift cards and put them in the car…and we were just looking for homeless people to give them to. So we saw this guy and I said okay we’re just going to test this out. So we gave him the gift card and he was soooo grateful. I thought ‘gosh, that felt good and it was so easy.’ So my first day at Micah…who comes in that door but that same guy! And he recognized me! He said ‘you are the angel who gave me that card. You have no idea how much I needed that right that minute!’ It was a total God thing
win downtown gift certificate Identify this mystery house and you could win a gift certificate from a downtown merchant. Here’s how: Email frntprch@aol.com, Subject: mystery house, Identify house address, Your name, address, email. The poem below is a hint of the location of the mystery house. Good Luck!
Last Month’s House: 210 Sophia Street The Winner of a Whittingham Gift Certificate is Dave Spacil
Past Glory Oh you elegant girl, way past your prime some say, what do they know you mouth, to me it is a beautiful day. My family built me here to stay, the finest products of our time, reflecting good taste and means. Our family store was advertised, by my lovely interior, and the location was superior. Tucked away,at the base of the school, I lingered deteriorating for years, now restored,loved again, couldn't be happier.
It’s just awesome the things that I have learned and the people I have met. It’s just the little teeny things that can maybe make a difference.” Submitted by Micah Ecumenical Ministries, Contact 540-479-4116; www.dolovewalk.net; facebook
Artists: Beverley Coates Lynn Abbott Penny Parrish “Bronze-G Garnet Artifact Necklace” Michele Milano
Watch for Beverley Coates Feature Show in Nov. @ Brush Strokes Gallery Daily hours 10 to 6.
“Autum Leaves Feelin the Breeze” Peggy Wickham
24
October 2017
Front porch fredericksburg
Artist on site Saturdays
810 Caroline Street, Downtown Fredericksburg front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
25
White Like Me
On Stage!
the film A Community Conversation about Racism
@ Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, Oct 4 -N Nov 19
By Eileen Owen The recent protests in Charlottesville have started a new conversation about racism and how it relates to our communities. As we begin to have those conversations, Unity of Fredericksburg is hoping to facilitate them even more with the showing of the film, “White Like Me.” White Like Me: Reflections on Race from a Privileged Son is a book by activist and writer Tim Wise. It is a personal account examining white privilege and his conception of racism in American society through his experiences with his family and in his community.[1] The title is based on the book Black Like Me written by John Howard Griffin This film is based on the book and explores race and racism in the U.S. through the lens of whiteness and white privilege. The movie and a discussion following it will be held at the Central Rappahannock Regional Library Theater
“On golden pond” Stars Joyce DeWitt
On Golden Pond is a touching, warm, and witty drama written by Ernest Thompson, is both poignant and comical. An aging couple, Ethel and Norman Thayer, continue the long tradition of spending each summer at their cottage on a lake called Golden Pond, in the far reaches of northern New England. Norman is a retired cynical
Supporting Local Authors/Writers Since 1997
picture show hits market square
By mary lynn powers
DeWitt, born in 1949 grew up in a suburb of Indianapolis. She started on the stage when she was 13. She has an extensive Theatrical background, working both as actress and director in a Stage career which spans over fifty years. In those fifty years, Ms. DeWitt has starred in theatrical productions of every genre. Joyce will be living here in Fredericksburg for the duration of the play..Be sure to welcome her with the usual Burg hospitality! It looks like Fredericksburg is about to hit a “time warp” this fall with a showing of the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show. This zany, audience participation film opened in 1975 in a small theatre in California, and can still be found showing somewhere in the US on any given day. For those of us who survived the 70s, there is a fond memory of escapism when we think about the night we first saw this iconic production. The resurgence and revival of this film over the years is curious, but understandable once you see it. The film will air on a blow-up screen in the historic
room on October 14 th from 6:30 to 9:00 pm. This is a free event. You can view the trailer at https://vimeo.com/68050102
professor nearing eighty, with heart palpitations and a failing memory who retains his tart-tongued, observant eagerness for life. His wife Ethel (the role made famous by Katharine Hepburn in the 1981 film which earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress). is ten years younger and the perfect foil for Norman, delighting in all the small things that have enriched their long life together. . Playing Ethel the perfect foil is Joyce DeWitt known by most for her role as "Janet" in Three's Company.
Rocky Horror
Cast: Joyce DeWitt, Joe Inscoe, Mitchell Austin, Andrew C. Boothby, Alan Hoffman, Jennifer Joyner Directed by Sherri Edelen
Performances Wednesday & Friday Matinees Thurs. - Sat. Evenings Sunday Matinees
Bring a little sunshine to a senior’s life! Too many seniors feel lonely and isolated. YOU can make a difference by volunteering to visit a senior in the Fredericksburg area. Volunteer training is provided & no special skills are required. The Senior Visitors Program is a FREE community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg. Visit mhafred.org or call 540-371-2704
26
October 2017
Front porch fredericksburg
Market Square on October 20th at 9:00 PM. There will be a rain date of November 3rd at 9:00 PM. It is an R rated film, so only for those 18 and older. IDs will be required, as the museum will be offering beer and wine. The museum press release promotes this show quite accurately, as a mature themed film presented in an “immature fashion.” The showing is sponsored by the Fredericksburg Area Museum in conjunction with the Fredericksburg Arts Commission, Parks and Recreation and the UMW Rich Weirdos Club. The Rich Weirdos are a theatrical group that annually presents the Rocky Horror Picture Show to enthusiastic audiences on campus. Their Facebook page displays information on the show, as well as photographs. This event exhibits and promotes Fredericksburg’s vibrant arts community. The story plot evolves around a young, recently engaged couple who get a flat tire in a ferocious rainstorm. They end up having to call on the spooky abode of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. The doctor is in the midst of a party celebrating a new invention of sorts. Needless to say, wackiness ensues. It is a musical foray into the new age of cinema where anything goes, and crazily enough, anything can be considered art, depending on who is viewing and reviewing. There must be something to this phenomena though, as it is heading towards a half century of people enjoying the production. I talked with Melanie Johnson who is the Sr. Development Officer for the newly re-opened museum. She shared with me some of the motivation in backing the showing. She explained that it is a bridge between the students at Mary Washington and the city. All of those involved would love to bring the campus closer to the community. The show is free to the public (18 and older), but the proceeds from drink sales will benefit the museum. Many of us were sad to see the bank building close up, and glad there is activity to support the new facility. Fredericksburg is good at costumes, so I’m sure this will be an event not to be missed. I’m thinking along the lines of a zombie bride, or a creepy maid, the possibilities are endless…
Want to Go? Rocky Horror Picture Show October 20, 9pm Market Square R Rated....18 & Older Free Beer & Wine sales benefit FAM
THE ART OF Hsi-Mei east meets west by patricia smith
Hsi-M Mei Yates was born and raised in Taiwan. She loved art as a child, showed an aptitude for painting, and when she graduated worked at the China Pottery Art Company, where she refined her painting techniques. She studied with many Chinese Master painters, each with their own specialty. Her bamboo-painting teacher had her paint bamboo 1,000 times, and "it took me 3 years to master bamboo"! Bamboo illustrates Chinese composition in it's simplest form, and it is not easy to master! She immersed herself in the technical and spiritual aspects of Chinese painting before deciding to move to the U.S. at the age of 27. It was culture shock at first, because she was not fluent in English when she first arrived, and everything seemed foreign to her. Eventually she applied for a 5-year work visa, where she had to demonstrate her painting expertise to a Chinese scholar. With her work visa, then her Green card followed by citizenship, Hsi-Mei began to exhibit her work and teach Sumie ink and Chinese watercolor painting. She taught in Washington, North Carolina and now at Liberty Town, Fredericksburg and at the Workhouse Art Center, Lorton. She discovered she loves to teach painting, because "it is not so different from living". A brush stroke is committed to paper, an act committed in time, and there is no going back. Each movement is guided by breath and concentration. Sometimes an image emerges that seems miraculous! Since she entered the U.S. in 1983, her own art style and her teaching style have evolved. Her students do not paint bamboo 1,000 times! What has stayed the same is her reverence for flowers, birds, insects, fish, landscapes. Hsi-Mei teaches that each painter must use
their Chi, the power that comes from within the artist to reach an inner peace with oneself. "I enjoy teaching others to appreciate Nature as an expression of the Brush". Hsi-Mei will have a Chinese Brush Painting Workshop at the Unitarian Fellowship of Fredericksburg on Sunday, October 15, from 2:00-4:00 PM. Cost per person is $35.00, payable directly to HsiMei Yates. All supplies are included in the price. Adults and children are welcome to enroll. Please register directly with the artist via e-mail,hsimeiart@verizon.net. Hsi-Mei Yates will exhibit her paintings at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Fredericksburg from October 1-November 25, 2017. She will also exhibit paintings by some of her adult students, as well as paintings by some of her child students. The opening reception is on October 8 from 11:30 AM until 3 PM. The reception is free and open to the public. The students exhibiting with Hsi-
“Couple of Lovers” Mei in this exhibition are adults David Johnson, Carol Waite, and Cliffton Ericson. The child student paintings in this exhibition are by Andrew Dixon, Elizabeth Dixon, Anna Dixon, Patrick Dixon, Aly Dixon, Olivia Dixon, Emily Dixon, Robbie Howes, Sophia Pineda, Kaileen Coffman, Caileen Smolinsky, and Arianna Early.
Patricia Smith is a member of the Visual Arts Committee at UFFF
Want to Go?
Hsi-Mei Yates & Students Exhibit Oct 1-Nov 25 Opening Reception: Oct.8, 11:30-3p Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Gallery 25 Chalice Circle, Fredericksburg 22405. Info contact Nancy @540-310-4001.
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
27
White Like Me
On Stage!
the film A Community Conversation about Racism
@ Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, Oct 4 -N Nov 19
By Eileen Owen The recent protests in Charlottesville have started a new conversation about racism and how it relates to our communities. As we begin to have those conversations, Unity of Fredericksburg is hoping to facilitate them even more with the showing of the film, “White Like Me.” White Like Me: Reflections on Race from a Privileged Son is a book by activist and writer Tim Wise. It is a personal account examining white privilege and his conception of racism in American society through his experiences with his family and in his community.[1] The title is based on the book Black Like Me written by John Howard Griffin This film is based on the book and explores race and racism in the U.S. through the lens of whiteness and white privilege. The movie and a discussion following it will be held at the Central Rappahannock Regional Library Theater
“On golden pond” Stars Joyce DeWitt
On Golden Pond is a touching, warm, and witty drama written by Ernest Thompson, is both poignant and comical. An aging couple, Ethel and Norman Thayer, continue the long tradition of spending each summer at their cottage on a lake called Golden Pond, in the far reaches of northern New England. Norman is a retired cynical
Supporting Local Authors/Writers Since 1997
picture show hits market square
By mary lynn powers
DeWitt, born in 1949 grew up in a suburb of Indianapolis. She started on the stage when she was 13. She has an extensive Theatrical background, working both as actress and director in a Stage career which spans over fifty years. In those fifty years, Ms. DeWitt has starred in theatrical productions of every genre. Joyce will be living here in Fredericksburg for the duration of the play..Be sure to welcome her with the usual Burg hospitality! It looks like Fredericksburg is about to hit a “time warp” this fall with a showing of the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show. This zany, audience participation film opened in 1975 in a small theatre in California, and can still be found showing somewhere in the US on any given day. For those of us who survived the 70s, there is a fond memory of escapism when we think about the night we first saw this iconic production. The resurgence and revival of this film over the years is curious, but understandable once you see it. The film will air on a blow-up screen in the historic
room on October 14 th from 6:30 to 9:00 pm. This is a free event. You can view the trailer at https://vimeo.com/68050102
professor nearing eighty, with heart palpitations and a failing memory who retains his tart-tongued, observant eagerness for life. His wife Ethel (the role made famous by Katharine Hepburn in the 1981 film which earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress). is ten years younger and the perfect foil for Norman, delighting in all the small things that have enriched their long life together. . Playing Ethel the perfect foil is Joyce DeWitt known by most for her role as "Janet" in Three's Company.
Rocky Horror
Cast: Joyce DeWitt, Joe Inscoe, Mitchell Austin, Andrew C. Boothby, Alan Hoffman, Jennifer Joyner Directed by Sherri Edelen
Performances Wednesday & Friday Matinees Thurs. - Sat. Evenings Sunday Matinees
Bring a little sunshine to a senior’s life! Too many seniors feel lonely and isolated. YOU can make a difference by volunteering to visit a senior in the Fredericksburg area. Volunteer training is provided & no special skills are required. The Senior Visitors Program is a FREE community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg. Visit mhafred.org or call 540-371-2704
26
October 2017
Front porch fredericksburg
Market Square on October 20th at 9:00 PM. There will be a rain date of November 3rd at 9:00 PM. It is an R rated film, so only for those 18 and older. IDs will be required, as the museum will be offering beer and wine. The museum press release promotes this show quite accurately, as a mature themed film presented in an “immature fashion.” The showing is sponsored by the Fredericksburg Area Museum in conjunction with the Fredericksburg Arts Commission, Parks and Recreation and the UMW Rich Weirdos Club. The Rich Weirdos are a theatrical group that annually presents the Rocky Horror Picture Show to enthusiastic audiences on campus. Their Facebook page displays information on the show, as well as photographs. This event exhibits and promotes Fredericksburg’s vibrant arts community. The story plot evolves around a young, recently engaged couple who get a flat tire in a ferocious rainstorm. They end up having to call on the spooky abode of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. The doctor is in the midst of a party celebrating a new invention of sorts. Needless to say, wackiness ensues. It is a musical foray into the new age of cinema where anything goes, and crazily enough, anything can be considered art, depending on who is viewing and reviewing. There must be something to this phenomena though, as it is heading towards a half century of people enjoying the production. I talked with Melanie Johnson who is the Sr. Development Officer for the newly re-opened museum. She shared with me some of the motivation in backing the showing. She explained that it is a bridge between the students at Mary Washington and the city. All of those involved would love to bring the campus closer to the community. The show is free to the public (18 and older), but the proceeds from drink sales will benefit the museum. Many of us were sad to see the bank building close up, and glad there is activity to support the new facility. Fredericksburg is good at costumes, so I’m sure this will be an event not to be missed. I’m thinking along the lines of a zombie bride, or a creepy maid, the possibilities are endless…
Want to Go? Rocky Horror Picture Show October 20, 9pm Market Square R Rated....18 & Older Free Beer & Wine sales benefit FAM
THE ART OF Hsi-Mei east meets west by patricia smith
Hsi-M Mei Yates was born and raised in Taiwan. She loved art as a child, showed an aptitude for painting, and when she graduated worked at the China Pottery Art Company, where she refined her painting techniques. She studied with many Chinese Master painters, each with their own specialty. Her bamboo-painting teacher had her paint bamboo 1,000 times, and "it took me 3 years to master bamboo"! Bamboo illustrates Chinese composition in it's simplest form, and it is not easy to master! She immersed herself in the technical and spiritual aspects of Chinese painting before deciding to move to the U.S. at the age of 27. It was culture shock at first, because she was not fluent in English when she first arrived, and everything seemed foreign to her. Eventually she applied for a 5-year work visa, where she had to demonstrate her painting expertise to a Chinese scholar. With her work visa, then her Green card followed by citizenship, Hsi-Mei began to exhibit her work and teach Sumie ink and Chinese watercolor painting. She taught in Washington, North Carolina and now at Liberty Town, Fredericksburg and at the Workhouse Art Center, Lorton. She discovered she loves to teach painting, because "it is not so different from living". A brush stroke is committed to paper, an act committed in time, and there is no going back. Each movement is guided by breath and concentration. Sometimes an image emerges that seems miraculous! Since she entered the U.S. in 1983, her own art style and her teaching style have evolved. Her students do not paint bamboo 1,000 times! What has stayed the same is her reverence for flowers, birds, insects, fish, landscapes. Hsi-Mei teaches that each painter must use
their Chi, the power that comes from within the artist to reach an inner peace with oneself. "I enjoy teaching others to appreciate Nature as an expression of the Brush". Hsi-Mei will have a Chinese Brush Painting Workshop at the Unitarian Fellowship of Fredericksburg on Sunday, October 15, from 2:00-4:00 PM. Cost per person is $35.00, payable directly to HsiMei Yates. All supplies are included in the price. Adults and children are welcome to enroll. Please register directly with the artist via e-mail,hsimeiart@verizon.net. Hsi-Mei Yates will exhibit her paintings at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Fredericksburg from October 1-November 25, 2017. She will also exhibit paintings by some of her adult students, as well as paintings by some of her child students. The opening reception is on October 8 from 11:30 AM until 3 PM. The reception is free and open to the public. The students exhibiting with Hsi-
“Couple of Lovers” Mei in this exhibition are adults David Johnson, Carol Waite, and Cliffton Ericson. The child student paintings in this exhibition are by Andrew Dixon, Elizabeth Dixon, Anna Dixon, Patrick Dixon, Aly Dixon, Olivia Dixon, Emily Dixon, Robbie Howes, Sophia Pineda, Kaileen Coffman, Caileen Smolinsky, and Arianna Early.
Patricia Smith is a member of the Visual Arts Committee at UFFF
Want to Go?
Hsi-Mei Yates & Students Exhibit Oct 1-Nov 25 Opening Reception: Oct.8, 11:30-3p Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Gallery 25 Chalice Circle, Fredericksburg 22405. Info contact Nancy @540-310-4001.
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
27
Companions voices for animals By Sarah Chapin Voices for Animals is an all volunteer based non-profit organization in Charlottesville, VA. The group consists of the following three projects: 1) Community Cat Project (CCP)- provides sterilizations and vaccinations for feral and unowned free-roaming cats in Central Virginia 2) Houses of Wood and Straw (HOWS) Project -provides proper housing, straw bedding, and other comforts for neglected outdoor dogs 3) General Advocacy Fund- Host of the upcoming Vegan Roots Fest on Saturday, September 30th at Booker T Washington Park in Charlottesville. The event includes amazing food, music and speakers! Family friendly fun for all and free to the public! Visit the website www.cvillevegfest.org for more information. Furthermore, Voices organizes action alerts on a variety of animal protection issues, and pet food drives for the needy, doing all we can to create a better world for animals. Voices even has a small foster program. Following are two pets that are currently available for adoption:
email voicescats@gmail.com for more information. Lady: This beautiful dog is fully vetted and spayed. About 10 years YOUNG and healthy! She is a wonderful companion and lap dog. Her owner passed away and didn't make arrangements for her so the HOWS Project took her back. Lady used to be chained outside 24/7 and was surrendered to the HOWS Project about 4 years ago. She has a sweet temperament and loves all dogs and people. We are looking for a forever family for lady to live her golden years out with! She loves to cuddle on the sofa and curl up at your feet. She enjoys going outside but doesn't need to be walked or have vigorous exercise. She just enjoys hanging out in the yard on nice days! Please call Kimberly at 301-6971774 if you are interested in meeting Lady. She is located in Charlottesville. For more information on any Voices for Animals projects, please visit our website www.voicesforanimals.org, call 434-979-1200 or email voicescats@gmail.com. Sarah Chapin is a volunteer with Voices for Animals
Staryu Staryu is a day dreamer who wants you to know that she's waiting for her perfect person! This gorgeous kitten enjoys cuddles on your chest, constant purrs, good food, belly rubs, and just in general, lots of attention. Staryu is up to date on vaccines and spayed. Please
LADY
28
October 2017
FredSPCA Helps Shelters in Texas after Harvey September proved to be a stressful month for animal rescue workers across the country as shelters in affected areas struggled to save animals and make space for those displaced by the disaster. The Fredericksburg SPCA worked to do our part and take in animals from shelters in Texas, transferring in roughly 30 animals that need forever homes! (see above) Please help us by making a donation, check out our Amazon wishlist on our website at www.fburgspca.org. Also, please consider becoming a volunteer to help us care for animals in need! You can sign up fburgspca.org/volunteer to attend our next volunteer orientation on October 11th from 5-7pm at our shelter!
Front porch fredericksburg
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
Spring Arbor Technology for Seniors
Trail or Trial
By CHristina Ferber Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!
Old Town’s Greatest Tour 35 Monuments, Markers, & Attractions AND the Fredericksburg Battlefields Weddings Reunions Shuttles Parties Group Outings Fredericksburgtrolley.com
Cancer Journal
540-898-0737
William Pullen using the K4 Tablet We are an aging society, and as we age, we need a safe place that we can all call home. The increase in senior living communities and assisted living facilities in our area is answering that call. Spring Arbor of Fredericksburg is no exception, and has implemented technology tools to enhance the lives of those who live there. “Our goal is to keep our residents as independent as possible, while encouraging them with as many social activities as we can,” says Cindi Bowen, Marketing Director of Spring Arbor of Fredericksburg. “We have found a way to do that with something called the K4 Community. We are the only facility in the Fredericksburg area with this technology.” Introduced earlier this year, the K4 Community consists of an easy to use tablet that the residents can use to control everything from the lights in their room to their social calendar. Residents who are unable to use the tablet can
benefit as well. The technology offers a sensor on their bed that can track how often and when the residents get out of bed during the night, and automatically turns the lights on when they are out of bed to keep them as safe as possible. It also comes with a remote control that they can use to operate their lights. “The K4 Community technology benefits all of our residents and we feel that it has enhanced their stay with us,” says Bowen. “If they have the desire and the ability to work with the K4 Community tablet, then a whole new world of possibilities opens up for them.” The tablet offers an easy to use interface with two tabs that offer information about the Spring Arbor Community and their own personal information connected to them. The community tab offers pictures from around Spring Arbor, the menu options for meals, a calendar of activities each day and an option to digitally sign up for what they choose. It can also provide a place for them to vote for where they would like to visit on their outside trips. Games that they can play with each other or themselves are also included, as well as local news, Spring Arbor news, and a directory to find other residents. “The K4 Community offers a way for our residents to be safer, better connected with their families, more active and allows them to be a little higher tech,” says Bowen. "A big benefit is that none of this can be done outside of the community, so there are no worries about hacking or others getting information. It is all in house.” The tablet is also connected to their room and they can receive emails from family members, video chat with them, control temperature and lights in their room, find out weather information, and get appointment reminders. There is also a wellness component that tracks their steps like a Fitbit and they can participate in community competitions for the most steps. “It is all very easy to navigate and there is no additional cost to residents. We offer it as a benefit to living here,” says Bowen. “We love how this has enhanced our residents lives and helped them stay connected to their family and community.” Spring Arbor is located at 5308 River Road. 540-369-3849 Visit springarborliving.com/ to find out more.
Helping homeless children and families in City of Fredericksburg, Counties of Caroline, Stafford & Spotsylvania 540 371 0831
Christina Ferber is an educator, mother, teacher & writer living in FXBG
by rim vining
“Good evening Mr. Phelps. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to endure seven weeks of cancer treatment and be pronounced cured.” Due to the harsh nature of Ms. Editor’s draconian deadlines I am writing in advance of the actual end of treatment. The reality of the hard work of my many care givers, friends, family and a higher power of unlimited grace is that my treatment will have ended and therefore I must be cured; i.e. E=MC2 and Radiation + Chemo + Faith = Life After Cancer. This experience has given me a raft of observations that I feel compelled to share with you as this chapter closes and the next opens. For instance treatment gives you lots of time at odd hours. So now it’s 1:46 AM and I have been awake for some time with this thread of a thought about our friend the feeding tube! This new “boob tube” is selfentertainment for all boys under the age of seventy. The tube is clear and anything you might chew, swallow and digest can be put in the ole “Bass-O Matic” and injected directly into the stomach without regard to taste, color or even odor. Think of the possibilities in a young male’s mind? True story: my wife’s younger brother managed to s-t-r-e-t-c-h a “Stretch Armstrong” doll thin enough to flush down the toilet only to regain his normal shape half-way to the septic tank! Now wakeful with visions of feeding tubes dancing in my head I turn to, “why does anything they make for easy feeding need color at all?” It could be clear or a pleasant peach tone and it certainly doesn’t need to look like people food… and here is where I came fully awake… wait for it: Why the hell do they make dog food that looks like an entree from a 5-
Star restaurant and cat food with tuna infused sauces? Have you seen what your pets will eat? Ever know a cat that chartered a fishing boat? Dogs eat ground hogs and things they find in the road. Cats prefer moles and voles and leave little presents on your back stoop. They might elevate their palate to the occasional small rabbit or slow squirrel but there are no Wild Kingdom episodes showing Grizzly Bears and Persian Blues working a salmon run together. I’m thinking new products for an old industry like “wild caught” voles or “farm raised” moles. The gizzards could come in little paper sacks so you could make their favorite gravy or perhaps a dipping sauce. Cats love that. And, give Purdue a shot and they could make a good sized mole roaster in a couple generations so they can come in cooking bags with infused spices just to make you feel good about what your cat is eating. One last observation… the tube is clear so you see what goes in and you can see what is lingering. So I have this one clear-ish little bubble that re-appears with a tomato saucey kind of tinge. I’m not allowed tomato sauces and acids but wait… way back before dietary restrictions… Arch Dipeppe brought over his Dad’s famous and delicious meat balls… and I still have a grease bubble six weeks later. Now that’s Italian! So if you shake a martini and pour it in your tube would that be a tuballibation? Primrose would be so proud! We could open Chemo-Cocktails. There must be SBA grants and ACA money out there somewhere. You know our motto: “Welcome! Belly up to the Bar!” It warms our hearts to know that Rim has kept his sense of humor
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
29
Companions voices for animals By Sarah Chapin Voices for Animals is an all volunteer based non-profit organization in Charlottesville, VA. The group consists of the following three projects: 1) Community Cat Project (CCP)- provides sterilizations and vaccinations for feral and unowned free-roaming cats in Central Virginia 2) Houses of Wood and Straw (HOWS) Project -provides proper housing, straw bedding, and other comforts for neglected outdoor dogs 3) General Advocacy Fund- Host of the upcoming Vegan Roots Fest on Saturday, September 30th at Booker T Washington Park in Charlottesville. The event includes amazing food, music and speakers! Family friendly fun for all and free to the public! Visit the website www.cvillevegfest.org for more information. Furthermore, Voices organizes action alerts on a variety of animal protection issues, and pet food drives for the needy, doing all we can to create a better world for animals. Voices even has a small foster program. Following are two pets that are currently available for adoption:
email voicescats@gmail.com for more information. Lady: This beautiful dog is fully vetted and spayed. About 10 years YOUNG and healthy! She is a wonderful companion and lap dog. Her owner passed away and didn't make arrangements for her so the HOWS Project took her back. Lady used to be chained outside 24/7 and was surrendered to the HOWS Project about 4 years ago. She has a sweet temperament and loves all dogs and people. We are looking for a forever family for lady to live her golden years out with! She loves to cuddle on the sofa and curl up at your feet. She enjoys going outside but doesn't need to be walked or have vigorous exercise. She just enjoys hanging out in the yard on nice days! Please call Kimberly at 301-6971774 if you are interested in meeting Lady. She is located in Charlottesville. For more information on any Voices for Animals projects, please visit our website www.voicesforanimals.org, call 434-979-1200 or email voicescats@gmail.com. Sarah Chapin is a volunteer with Voices for Animals
Staryu Staryu is a day dreamer who wants you to know that she's waiting for her perfect person! This gorgeous kitten enjoys cuddles on your chest, constant purrs, good food, belly rubs, and just in general, lots of attention. Staryu is up to date on vaccines and spayed. Please
LADY
28
October 2017
FredSPCA Helps Shelters in Texas after Harvey September proved to be a stressful month for animal rescue workers across the country as shelters in affected areas struggled to save animals and make space for those displaced by the disaster. The Fredericksburg SPCA worked to do our part and take in animals from shelters in Texas, transferring in roughly 30 animals that need forever homes! (see above) Please help us by making a donation, check out our Amazon wishlist on our website at www.fburgspca.org. Also, please consider becoming a volunteer to help us care for animals in need! You can sign up fburgspca.org/volunteer to attend our next volunteer orientation on October 11th from 5-7pm at our shelter!
Front porch fredericksburg
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
Spring Arbor Technology for Seniors
Trail or Trial
By CHristina Ferber Better value, more love for your pet than if you kennel board him!
Old Town’s Greatest Tour 35 Monuments, Markers, & Attractions AND the Fredericksburg Battlefields Weddings Reunions Shuttles Parties Group Outings Fredericksburgtrolley.com
Cancer Journal
540-898-0737
William Pullen using the K4 Tablet We are an aging society, and as we age, we need a safe place that we can all call home. The increase in senior living communities and assisted living facilities in our area is answering that call. Spring Arbor of Fredericksburg is no exception, and has implemented technology tools to enhance the lives of those who live there. “Our goal is to keep our residents as independent as possible, while encouraging them with as many social activities as we can,” says Cindi Bowen, Marketing Director of Spring Arbor of Fredericksburg. “We have found a way to do that with something called the K4 Community. We are the only facility in the Fredericksburg area with this technology.” Introduced earlier this year, the K4 Community consists of an easy to use tablet that the residents can use to control everything from the lights in their room to their social calendar. Residents who are unable to use the tablet can
benefit as well. The technology offers a sensor on their bed that can track how often and when the residents get out of bed during the night, and automatically turns the lights on when they are out of bed to keep them as safe as possible. It also comes with a remote control that they can use to operate their lights. “The K4 Community technology benefits all of our residents and we feel that it has enhanced their stay with us,” says Bowen. “If they have the desire and the ability to work with the K4 Community tablet, then a whole new world of possibilities opens up for them.” The tablet offers an easy to use interface with two tabs that offer information about the Spring Arbor Community and their own personal information connected to them. The community tab offers pictures from around Spring Arbor, the menu options for meals, a calendar of activities each day and an option to digitally sign up for what they choose. It can also provide a place for them to vote for where they would like to visit on their outside trips. Games that they can play with each other or themselves are also included, as well as local news, Spring Arbor news, and a directory to find other residents. “The K4 Community offers a way for our residents to be safer, better connected with their families, more active and allows them to be a little higher tech,” says Bowen. "A big benefit is that none of this can be done outside of the community, so there are no worries about hacking or others getting information. It is all in house.” The tablet is also connected to their room and they can receive emails from family members, video chat with them, control temperature and lights in their room, find out weather information, and get appointment reminders. There is also a wellness component that tracks their steps like a Fitbit and they can participate in community competitions for the most steps. “It is all very easy to navigate and there is no additional cost to residents. We offer it as a benefit to living here,” says Bowen. “We love how this has enhanced our residents lives and helped them stay connected to their family and community.” Spring Arbor is located at 5308 River Road. 540-369-3849 Visit springarborliving.com/ to find out more.
Helping homeless children and families in City of Fredericksburg, Counties of Caroline, Stafford & Spotsylvania 540 371 0831
Christina Ferber is an educator, mother, teacher & writer living in FXBG
by rim vining
“Good evening Mr. Phelps. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to endure seven weeks of cancer treatment and be pronounced cured.” Due to the harsh nature of Ms. Editor’s draconian deadlines I am writing in advance of the actual end of treatment. The reality of the hard work of my many care givers, friends, family and a higher power of unlimited grace is that my treatment will have ended and therefore I must be cured; i.e. E=MC2 and Radiation + Chemo + Faith = Life After Cancer. This experience has given me a raft of observations that I feel compelled to share with you as this chapter closes and the next opens. For instance treatment gives you lots of time at odd hours. So now it’s 1:46 AM and I have been awake for some time with this thread of a thought about our friend the feeding tube! This new “boob tube” is selfentertainment for all boys under the age of seventy. The tube is clear and anything you might chew, swallow and digest can be put in the ole “Bass-O Matic” and injected directly into the stomach without regard to taste, color or even odor. Think of the possibilities in a young male’s mind? True story: my wife’s younger brother managed to s-t-r-e-t-c-h a “Stretch Armstrong” doll thin enough to flush down the toilet only to regain his normal shape half-way to the septic tank! Now wakeful with visions of feeding tubes dancing in my head I turn to, “why does anything they make for easy feeding need color at all?” It could be clear or a pleasant peach tone and it certainly doesn’t need to look like people food… and here is where I came fully awake… wait for it: Why the hell do they make dog food that looks like an entree from a 5-
Star restaurant and cat food with tuna infused sauces? Have you seen what your pets will eat? Ever know a cat that chartered a fishing boat? Dogs eat ground hogs and things they find in the road. Cats prefer moles and voles and leave little presents on your back stoop. They might elevate their palate to the occasional small rabbit or slow squirrel but there are no Wild Kingdom episodes showing Grizzly Bears and Persian Blues working a salmon run together. I’m thinking new products for an old industry like “wild caught” voles or “farm raised” moles. The gizzards could come in little paper sacks so you could make their favorite gravy or perhaps a dipping sauce. Cats love that. And, give Purdue a shot and they could make a good sized mole roaster in a couple generations so they can come in cooking bags with infused spices just to make you feel good about what your cat is eating. One last observation… the tube is clear so you see what goes in and you can see what is lingering. So I have this one clear-ish little bubble that re-appears with a tomato saucey kind of tinge. I’m not allowed tomato sauces and acids but wait… way back before dietary restrictions… Arch Dipeppe brought over his Dad’s famous and delicious meat balls… and I still have a grease bubble six weeks later. Now that’s Italian! So if you shake a martini and pour it in your tube would that be a tuballibation? Primrose would be so proud! We could open Chemo-Cocktails. There must be SBA grants and ACA money out there somewhere. You know our motto: “Welcome! Belly up to the Bar!” It warms our hearts to know that Rim has kept his sense of humor
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
29
Fredericksburg Sketches 606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg 373-7847
A visual Celebration of our community
By Casey Alan Shaw
www.gemstonecreations.org
Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged
Give a Child Something to Think About
Books, Games, Amusing Novelties M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm
SKETCH #36: Art First Gallery If you visit only occasionally, you might think nothing ever changes in historic downtown Fredericksburg. I use to think that, too. That was part of its charm. But as I’ve begun to sketch around the area, I am constantly surprised by how much things DO change, if you look closely. New shops and restaurants open and others change names or locations. Even the landscape changes. That was the case with this sketch. During last year’s Art Attack event, I set up my easel outside Art First Gallery. I had never actually drawn the Gallery before and since the exterior had been newly painted, it seemed like a good time to make a drawing. Little did I know that one of the prominent elements of the drawing (the big tree outside) would soon be gone. Art First Gallery has come to feel like home to me and that tree was always a welcoming presence, so I’m glad I made the drawing when I did so I have an enduring reminder of it. Next month at Art First Gallery, I’ll be having my first “featured artist” show in three years! I can’t believe it’s been that long. I guess my mind is on that big tree because I’ve been focusing on local landscapes for this new show which is a new challenge for me. Like downtown, I’ve been working on making changes to my work while still trying to retain some of the old charm. I invite you to stop by and take a look, if you get a chance. The show will be up the entire month of November with opening night on First Friday, Nov. 3rd from 6 to 9pm. 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
Your Hometown Jeweler Since 1940
On-Premise Jewelry Repair Large Selection of ESTATE JEWELRY 212 William Street,Fredericksburg 540-373-5513 Mon-Fri 9-5:30; Sat 9-4 jewelboxfredericksburgva.webs.com jewelbox14k@yahoo.com
30
October 2017
Front porch fredericksburg
From My Porch A Letter to My 20 Year old self
jAN sWAGER by georgia Lee Strentz
Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesdays until 6:30 and by appointment
810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684
FXBG’ERS She was raised in Long Island, New York,went off to Kansas to complete her education, and became a nurse. Jan worked for a health care consulting group, and while traveling for work, met her future husband here, who is on the staff of Mary Washington Hospital. She and her husband have raised two children in our community, one a senior in high school, and their oldest, a sophomore in college. Jan has been a stay-at-home mom,(as she describes herself.) In these years, she has packed alot of outside community activities into her "free-time." Jan has been a room mother, school PTA, scouts, local children charities, school drama department, school chorus, Fredericksburg Service League, and for seven years she has been museum shop buyer and now Jan Swager tying a pink ribbon on the fence at the director . Mary Washington House,for Cancer Awareness She would like to point out the wonderful unusual (and I What a delightful home to visit, add gorgeous) gifts available in the Mary as it seems as though Mary and her son Washington House Museum store. The reGeorge, could be sitting in the next room purposed original wooden shingles from having a mother-son talk. Mary's house are so interesting! I am If it were not for Jan Swager and intrigued by the special tea blend,once the dedicated, forward-thinking, historyserved to Lafayette in Mary's house. To minded citizens who volunteer at Mary actually be standing on the floors where Washington House, there would only be a the founders of our country walked and hole in the ground where this talked, and drank tea, is just awesome. historical home once stood. No Thank you Jan for keeping Mary community funds are provided from our Washington's house alive and well for our Fredericksburg City Council children and grandchildren to enjoy in Jan came to Fredericksburg like years to come. so many of us "newbies," through a job, Another thanks to Michelle friendships blossomed, then stayed to Hamilton, the manager of Mary raise our families, loved our town and Washington House. Through her became a "Fredericksburger," our wonderful overseeing and delightful and homeplace. gracious presence in her period clothes. Michelle hails from California with her whole family, and holds a Masters degree in history, and is a widely published author on historical subjects. The community is encouraged to tie a ribbon on the fence at Mary Washington House to remember someone who died, battled or survived breast cancer. Mary Washington had breast cancer when she died. There is no charge to tie a ribbon, just come into the entrance and get a ribbon or ribbons 1200 Charles St., come see us. . Ah the Fall sun, mellow out sitting by the river,reading our Front Porch news!!! ~ Georgia
By Jo Loving “There is a certain part of all of us that lives outside of time. Perhaps we become aware of our age only at exceptional moments and most of the time we are ageless.” ~ Milan Kundera This is the year that I celebrate being 20 for the 36th time. I wasn’t a normal 20-year-old. I was always older than my years, serious, in a hurry (for what, I don’t know), and determined. By the time I was 20, I was a mother to a 2month-old baby girl. I remember those days with fondness, my sweet baby girl -nursing, smiling, growing at such a rapid pace. Those days were also filled with doubt – doubt in my abilities to be a good mother, doubt that I would be able to do everything I felt was required of me, and, I can admit now, a little tinge of mourning, for the me that could have been. So, today, I write that Jo a letter, with advice and wisdom that these intervening 36 years have brought. Dear Jo, I’ve known you all your life. Let me share a few things with you that might make life better for you. 1.) First things first, you’re a wife and a new mother. You’ll be fine, the baby will be fine. She will bring you more joy, challenges, and growth than you can imagine. Embrace it. You can do this. You’ll make mistakes. You’ll have grand successes. Nothing will compare to this time, these days with your firstborn. Nothing. These are precious moments. Don’t rush through them. Don’t let people make you worry about whether you should breast feed, or whatever else you need to do for the baby. It’s your decision. You decided to breast feed. Good. Others decide not to. Good. Life is wasted while we worry about what others think. Don’t waste time on such things. Incidentally, you’ll have twins in a few years. You won’t be ready. No one is ever ready. It’ll be ok. You’ll have plenty of love to share. That’s all that really matters. 2) Guess what? You had grand plans for your life. Those plans don’t always work out the way you had hoped. Roll with it. You’ll be fine. You’ll love your life. Don’t worry. Things are coming that will require great strength. You’re building that, one moment at a time. You’ll find out what you’re made of, and it’s pretty good, strong stuff. 3) You’ll have to use all your strength some days, and you will think you’ve run out. You haven’t. There are reserves within you that you can use for everything you need. Pray. Have faith. Talk to people
who have been through whatever you face. Scream into the pillow. Then make your decision. Know, again, that you’ll make mistakes. Forgive readily – especially yourself. Don’t waste time secondguessing. Learn from your mistakes and move on. Trust me, they are not catastrophic. Life goes on. 4) You’ll work hard and have use all your organizational abilities, your brain, your stamina, and your determination. Do this for you, for your family. Use what you must for your education and career, but it isn’t the main thing. It is, in the final analysis, a means to an end. It provides for your family. It gives you some measure of a feeling of accomplishment. It gives you exposure to a variety of people, experiences, and places. That’s good. Don’t let it take over. When you start to lose sight of who you are when you’re not the “career you,” back off. It’ll be okay. Always make time for the people who matter, to do things with the kids, to take the little getaways that rejuvenate all of you. 5). Jo, I’m talking turkey with you right now. You’ve always been so serious. Lighten up, gal! Laugh at the absurdity of life. Laugh at yourself. Find humor in everything. It really helps. Really. And don’t forget how much you love music. You need it. It will get you through a lot. Escape into it when you need a break. 6). Now, let me reassure you. 36 years from now, you’ll look back and say, “Wow, this has been an exciting ride so far. What will the next 36 years bring? I can’t wait.” …and I can’t. Jo Loving is on the porch today, reminiscing about the sweet smell of that 2-month-old baby girl, the tender moments with her, the loveliness of life. It’s a journey that she knows will end someday, but not just yet – there are more frontiers to explore, more babies to hold, more…more…
Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer
540~479~4116 1013 Princess Anne Street , FXBG
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
31
Fredericksburg Sketches 606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg 373-7847
A visual Celebration of our community
By Casey Alan Shaw
www.gemstonecreations.org
Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged
Give a Child Something to Think About
Books, Games, Amusing Novelties M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm
SKETCH #36: Art First Gallery If you visit only occasionally, you might think nothing ever changes in historic downtown Fredericksburg. I use to think that, too. That was part of its charm. But as I’ve begun to sketch around the area, I am constantly surprised by how much things DO change, if you look closely. New shops and restaurants open and others change names or locations. Even the landscape changes. That was the case with this sketch. During last year’s Art Attack event, I set up my easel outside Art First Gallery. I had never actually drawn the Gallery before and since the exterior had been newly painted, it seemed like a good time to make a drawing. Little did I know that one of the prominent elements of the drawing (the big tree outside) would soon be gone. Art First Gallery has come to feel like home to me and that tree was always a welcoming presence, so I’m glad I made the drawing when I did so I have an enduring reminder of it. Next month at Art First Gallery, I’ll be having my first “featured artist” show in three years! I can’t believe it’s been that long. I guess my mind is on that big tree because I’ve been focusing on local landscapes for this new show which is a new challenge for me. Like downtown, I’ve been working on making changes to my work while still trying to retain some of the old charm. I invite you to stop by and take a look, if you get a chance. The show will be up the entire month of November with opening night on First Friday, Nov. 3rd from 6 to 9pm. 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
Your Hometown Jeweler Since 1940
On-Premise Jewelry Repair Large Selection of ESTATE JEWELRY 212 William Street,Fredericksburg 540-373-5513 Mon-Fri 9-5:30; Sat 9-4 jewelboxfredericksburgva.webs.com jewelbox14k@yahoo.com
30
October 2017
Front porch fredericksburg
From My Porch A Letter to My 20 Year old self
jAN sWAGER by georgia Lee Strentz
Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesdays until 6:30 and by appointment
810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684
FXBG’ERS She was raised in Long Island, New York,went off to Kansas to complete her education, and became a nurse. Jan worked for a health care consulting group, and while traveling for work, met her future husband here, who is on the staff of Mary Washington Hospital. She and her husband have raised two children in our community, one a senior in high school, and their oldest, a sophomore in college. Jan has been a stay-at-home mom,(as she describes herself.) In these years, she has packed alot of outside community activities into her "free-time." Jan has been a room mother, school PTA, scouts, local children charities, school drama department, school chorus, Fredericksburg Service League, and for seven years she has been museum shop buyer and now Jan Swager tying a pink ribbon on the fence at the director . Mary Washington House,for Cancer Awareness She would like to point out the wonderful unusual (and I What a delightful home to visit, add gorgeous) gifts available in the Mary as it seems as though Mary and her son Washington House Museum store. The reGeorge, could be sitting in the next room purposed original wooden shingles from having a mother-son talk. Mary's house are so interesting! I am If it were not for Jan Swager and intrigued by the special tea blend,once the dedicated, forward-thinking, historyserved to Lafayette in Mary's house. To minded citizens who volunteer at Mary actually be standing on the floors where Washington House, there would only be a the founders of our country walked and hole in the ground where this talked, and drank tea, is just awesome. historical home once stood. No Thank you Jan for keeping Mary community funds are provided from our Washington's house alive and well for our Fredericksburg City Council children and grandchildren to enjoy in Jan came to Fredericksburg like years to come. so many of us "newbies," through a job, Another thanks to Michelle friendships blossomed, then stayed to Hamilton, the manager of Mary raise our families, loved our town and Washington House. Through her became a "Fredericksburger," our wonderful overseeing and delightful and homeplace. gracious presence in her period clothes. Michelle hails from California with her whole family, and holds a Masters degree in history, and is a widely published author on historical subjects. The community is encouraged to tie a ribbon on the fence at Mary Washington House to remember someone who died, battled or survived breast cancer. Mary Washington had breast cancer when she died. There is no charge to tie a ribbon, just come into the entrance and get a ribbon or ribbons 1200 Charles St., come see us. . Ah the Fall sun, mellow out sitting by the river,reading our Front Porch news!!! ~ Georgia
By Jo Loving “There is a certain part of all of us that lives outside of time. Perhaps we become aware of our age only at exceptional moments and most of the time we are ageless.” ~ Milan Kundera This is the year that I celebrate being 20 for the 36th time. I wasn’t a normal 20-year-old. I was always older than my years, serious, in a hurry (for what, I don’t know), and determined. By the time I was 20, I was a mother to a 2month-old baby girl. I remember those days with fondness, my sweet baby girl -nursing, smiling, growing at such a rapid pace. Those days were also filled with doubt – doubt in my abilities to be a good mother, doubt that I would be able to do everything I felt was required of me, and, I can admit now, a little tinge of mourning, for the me that could have been. So, today, I write that Jo a letter, with advice and wisdom that these intervening 36 years have brought. Dear Jo, I’ve known you all your life. Let me share a few things with you that might make life better for you. 1.) First things first, you’re a wife and a new mother. You’ll be fine, the baby will be fine. She will bring you more joy, challenges, and growth than you can imagine. Embrace it. You can do this. You’ll make mistakes. You’ll have grand successes. Nothing will compare to this time, these days with your firstborn. Nothing. These are precious moments. Don’t rush through them. Don’t let people make you worry about whether you should breast feed, or whatever else you need to do for the baby. It’s your decision. You decided to breast feed. Good. Others decide not to. Good. Life is wasted while we worry about what others think. Don’t waste time on such things. Incidentally, you’ll have twins in a few years. You won’t be ready. No one is ever ready. It’ll be ok. You’ll have plenty of love to share. That’s all that really matters. 2) Guess what? You had grand plans for your life. Those plans don’t always work out the way you had hoped. Roll with it. You’ll be fine. You’ll love your life. Don’t worry. Things are coming that will require great strength. You’re building that, one moment at a time. You’ll find out what you’re made of, and it’s pretty good, strong stuff. 3) You’ll have to use all your strength some days, and you will think you’ve run out. You haven’t. There are reserves within you that you can use for everything you need. Pray. Have faith. Talk to people
who have been through whatever you face. Scream into the pillow. Then make your decision. Know, again, that you’ll make mistakes. Forgive readily – especially yourself. Don’t waste time secondguessing. Learn from your mistakes and move on. Trust me, they are not catastrophic. Life goes on. 4) You’ll work hard and have use all your organizational abilities, your brain, your stamina, and your determination. Do this for you, for your family. Use what you must for your education and career, but it isn’t the main thing. It is, in the final analysis, a means to an end. It provides for your family. It gives you some measure of a feeling of accomplishment. It gives you exposure to a variety of people, experiences, and places. That’s good. Don’t let it take over. When you start to lose sight of who you are when you’re not the “career you,” back off. It’ll be okay. Always make time for the people who matter, to do things with the kids, to take the little getaways that rejuvenate all of you. 5). Jo, I’m talking turkey with you right now. You’ve always been so serious. Lighten up, gal! Laugh at the absurdity of life. Laugh at yourself. Find humor in everything. It really helps. Really. And don’t forget how much you love music. You need it. It will get you through a lot. Escape into it when you need a break. 6). Now, let me reassure you. 36 years from now, you’ll look back and say, “Wow, this has been an exciting ride so far. What will the next 36 years bring? I can’t wait.” …and I can’t. Jo Loving is on the porch today, reminiscing about the sweet smell of that 2-month-old baby girl, the tender moments with her, the loveliness of life. It’s a journey that she knows will end someday, but not just yet – there are more frontiers to explore, more babies to hold, more…more…
Become a Friend Advocate ~ Donate ~ Volunteer
540~479~4116 1013 Princess Anne Street , FXBG
front porch fredericksburg
October 2017
31