Front Porch Fredericksburg August 2023

7Sarah perry says goodbye

23sonja petersen recording memories

Porch talk

4 on the porch...life in fredericksburg messages

5 let’s talk.: student athletes’ mental & physical health

8In the Garden: scotland’s great climate

9growing & crawling: deceptively beautiful

10i have a friend: a sweet friendship

11everyday things: planters peanuts

12tidbits...small bites of local news

13 season’s bounty: cold meals in a bowl

14diet & fitness....alter your eating habits

15vino: salivate, dribble & slobber

16-17Calendar of Events

18history’s stories:my cannon what’s in a lane? thornton's tavern

19our heritage: jewish fredericksburg

20mental health: youths record level of sadness

21Emancipated patients: emr stress

22auto known better: sports car forgiveness program

24art in the burg ...galleries in august

26 healthy relationships

27 porchlight: the road traveled

29astrology & you poetryman: a heritage

30fredericksburg sketches

31a half year remembered

...And More!

inspiration

25porchfest: celebration of music

28A safe haven for dogs

Cover: “”Sunset Delight”, By Sonja Petersen

3Jacqueline Carter an artist’s swan song

6 marianna smith....Artistic

Front porch fredericksburg

When Gerald "G" Brown speaks of his older second-cousin Jacqueline Carter Alexander there is a blend of admiration and affection in his voice. A primarily self-taught artist, Jacqueline began her interest in drawing in 1957 when she participated in a "Draw Me" challenge of President Lincoln. She began with pastels and then explored oil paints, but found her love in watercolors.

As part of a family with roots in Spotsylvania that go back 280 years, she has shared her art and heart for more than 50 years with area residents, as well with as Europeans that she met on her annual travels with her husband.

Her style is light and delightfully loose-which is perfect for conveying the personalities of the sites and structures she paints and even offers a glimpse of her own personality. Her prints and paintings feature iconic local buildings such as the Rising Sun Tavern, Mary Washington House, and Chatham Manor as well as scenes from her most cherished travel destination, Austria, and Italy, and

An Artist’s Swan Song

jacqueline carter alexander

By collette caprara

street scenes that capture the liveliness of New Orleans.

An outgoing and engaging person, Jacqueline elicited numerous requests for commissioned paintings of family homes. Doors literally began opening for this talented artist when she began knocking on them. Yes, she went door to doorin Virginia and abroad-toting a sampling of her prints and paintings with her. "That just came natural to her. She was excited about her work and she knew how to sell it. She was vivacious and very, very friendly. She

loved people and had a heart of gold," said "G". "She was a striking figure with beauty that reminded me of Elizabeth Taylor, and she dressed accordingly. Wherever she went, people would just stop and look at her."

Jacqueline, who was born in 1931 and turned 93 this summer, put her paintbrushes away several years ago. With a substantial inventory of her works in storage, "G" has offered to arrange for the public to have one final opportunity to have one of her paintings in their homes. He will be coordinating two exhibits in Fredericksburg this summer.

Beverley Coates, a fellow water-colorist who first met Jacqueline when they both served as teachers in Spotsylvania, has offered to host an exhibit of her works at the 810 Weekend Gallery on Caroline Street. In addition, a friend has offered the basement of his business in Fredericksburg as a venue for the exhibit and sale of any remaining artwork.

Though producing dual exhibits requires much investment in planning, transporting works, and hanging the displays, for "G" it is all truly a labor of love. One memory that has stayed with him through life is his first day of school as a little boy when he missed the bus back home but was rescued by Jacqueline who hopped in the car and fetched him.

Throughout the years, their relationship has been one of support, care, and concern for one another.

Collette Caprara is a writer, artist & lover of all of life's blessings

Jaqueline C Alexander's "Swan Song" Exhibits

Throughout August and September, FriSun 810 Weekend Gallery 810 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, 22401 facebook.com/810WeekendGallery/ CTSG Building 205 Wallace Lane, Fredericksburg 22408 Saturday August 26, 10 am-4 4 pm and Sunday, Aug 27, 1 pm to 4 pm

ON THE PORCH

Archer Di Peppe Guest Porch Editorial

Contributing Writers & Artists

Sally Cooney AndersonRita Allan

Dianne Bachman Sonja Cantu

Sam CahillCollette Caprara

Gary CloseArcher Di Peppe

Janet DouberlyJeannie Ellis

Jenna Elizabeth Edwards

Frank FratoeBill Freehling

Jon GerlachDaniel H Gillson, Jr

Annie HarpeRalph “Tuffy” Hicks

Nancy KellyDavid C. Kennedy

Joyce Kinnard

Lenora Kruk-MullanaphyRay Mikula

Vanessa Moncure

Cher MurphyNancy Moore

Pete Morelewicz Patrick Neustatter

Penny A Parrish

M.L. PowersPaula Raudenbush

Gerri ReidRob Rudick

Ted SchubelMandy Smith

Rim Vining Tina Will 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 article submissions must be received by e-mail by the 16th & calendar items 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

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@Front Porch Fredericksburg Magazine

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 2023

Front Porch Fredericksburg Magazine All rights reserved.

...And the pursuit of contentment

By archer di peppe

I know the actual words are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, but happiness is fleeting. Happiness is a butterfly that is easy to spot but can disappear as quickly. Maybe we should seek contentment.

It is interesting to note that the original words of the Declaration of Independence were life, liberty and property. While the original was not quite as poetic, property was probably closer to the heart of what mattered most to the landed gentry.

It is not uncommon for people to believe that something material is missing from their lives that is keeping them from being happy. I had a Sociology professor who told the class the story of the guy who believed if he had a color television, he would be content. This story goes back to 1970 when color television technology was less than ten years old. He bought one, then another, then another, until he had five color televisions. Having a color television was not the answer to his problem.

If you are fortunate enough to be middle class in America, you live much better than kings from history. We have much better access to healthcare, and we live in climate-controlled spaces. We have much better accessibility to a wider variety of food. We have all of this, and no one is trying to poison us, which was a definite occupational hazard for kings.

Interestingly enough, the countries that score highest on the happiness scale have the strongest sense of community. The top three are Finland, Denmark, and Iceland. Ninety-eight per cent of the citizens in Iceland know that they have someone to count on in a time of need. It is not uncommon in America to

messages

Virginia

Thank you Front Porch for the wonderful coverage of Sophia Street Throwdown!

Trista Chapman

Front Porch I love this paper!

not even know most of our neighbors. America ranks fifteenth.

Digital connections have replaced human connections. We have never been so well connected on one level, and at the same time so removed from actual human contact with one another. How much of your life do you want to spend staring into a screen? The average American spends one third of their waking hours on their cell phones. Not me.

I have a flip phone and I still use AOL. Stop laughing. The reason I have a cell phone is so I can call my wife's phone when she can't find hers, and so she can find me in the grocery store. "Where the hell are you?"

I led my childhood outdoors, and all the mothers watched over us. There were no Facebook posts in those days. Mothers still found ways of finding out what their kids did all day. Those were the days when, "I'm going to tell your mother!" really meant something because they really told your mother.

I think we have lost some things in our quest to learn everything we can as fast as we can. We run right past our lives. After awhile everything becomes a distraction. Bright lights and loud noises seem to swirl around us continuously.

The first step to contentment is to stop comparing ourselves to other people. That is a game we can't win and shouldn't play. My next piece of advice is you don't have to say what you are thinking. I hate to be sexist, but men are the worst at this. A guy will just blurt out what he thinks. Most women are smarter

Front Porch

Oh great....good job Stacy on the Guiness....Good enough to drink. (Stacy Gerise, “My Guiness”, cover March 2023)

Valerie McCarney

than that. A cut from a knife can heal. A cut from a word may never heal. If men could understand that, it would save millions of marriages.

Finally, the most important possession you can have is a grateful heart. Being fully conscious of what we really do have can center us. We can learn that pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional. When people ask me if I believe that the glass is half empty or half full, I say I am just happy to have the glass.

Well, you have a whole Front Porch Magazine right in front of you. Enjoy it like a cold glass of lemonade on a hot August day, and be sure to read it cover to cover.

Arch Di Peppe is retired and lives in Spotsylvania County.

Debra Samuels

Front Porch Magazine

Thanks for all you do…I do so appreciate Front Porch

Dianne Bachman

Front Porch I picked up Front Porch 27 years ago. I thought what a great addition to our community, hope it lasts. Now 27 years later I can happily say it did! Congratulations, I look forward to many more issues of this community treasure.

Jack Goodwin

Eagles, Lets Talk

umw promotes Student-Athletes' Mental & Physical Health

When student-athletes sign up to compete at the collegiate level, they have a goal - to play the game and win. All too often, mental health takes a back seat. That's where Eagles Let's Talk comes in.

The program aims to help the University of Mary Washington's more than 525 student-athletes - from soccer and lacrosse players to swimmers and equestrians - identify and discuss stressors that could affect their performance in the classroom or on the field. Spearheaded by UMW Assistant Athletic Trainer Katie Carnaghi, the initiative lays out a full game plan, with monthly meetings, timely topics like nutrition and stress management, and most of all, a safe space for sharing concerns and conversation.

"It really does make such a difference to have an open and safe environment that allows people to feel comfortable to talk about the tough stuff," said senior Krista Rogers , a volleyball player and Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) member who

By Sam Cahill

helped get Eagles Let's

Talk off the ground.

Meetings revolve around pertinent topics. A session on nutrition featured a licensed guest speaker who shared tips on body image, healthy calorie consumption and energy levels. Another installment, led by a panel of former athletes including two UMW alumni, helped participants prepare for the struggle to define their identity once they are no longer on the field. The prevalence of suicide in the news and growing statistics - the NCAA reported 38% of those in women ' s sports and 22% of those in men ' s sports experienced mental exhaustion - led to a session on suicide prevention. "That is a huge number," Carnaghi said. " That should never happen."

The 35 student-athletes who turned out for the first meeting broke into small groups to spark more intimate conversations. Individuals signed in by team, only writing their names if they felt comfortable.

Senior baseball player Xavier Herring started attending after hearing about the program from his athletic trainer, Carnaghi. "One of the greatest takeaways I had from Eagles Let's Talk was that student-athletes are still students and people," he said. "We are more than just our performance on the field."

Macey Wissell, a women's soccer player and an officer of SAAC at UMW favored a session on injuries, where she gained a deeper realization that athletes experience circumstances affecting mental health differently than non-athletes. "You run into not only competing with your teammates for playing time, but also competing against your inner dialogue, working to build self-esteem," Wissell said. Mental health awareness for studentathletes hits close to home for Carnaghi, a former soccer player herself who felt she lost a sense of identity when she was injured and couldn't throw herself into her sport. "It's OK not to be OK," she said. She was inspired by a similar initiative at

James Madison University , where she completed her graduate athletic training program. She launched Eagles Let's Talk in October 2022, just two months after taking her position at UMW. She hopes to grow the initiative, including a shift toward bi-weekly meetings and a more student-run atmosphere, and a push to bring in more resources, connecting athletes to sports psychologists, former athletes and others who can serve as guest speakers.

Carnaghi's pride in the program is palpable. "In this area in particular, being so close to a hospital, being a big part of the town, it could benefit a lot of people," she said. "It's a big step in athletics."

Sam Cahill is the Assistant Director of Marketing/Social Media Coordinator at University of Mary Washington

A new UMW initiative, Eagles Let's Talk, offers support, education and conversation to support student-aathletes' mental health Pictured here from left to right are: Katie Carnaghi, Paige Childers, Charbel Medlej and Riley Durbano

Marianna Smith

Artistic Aspirations

by penny a parrish

Friday events back then, it was hard to meet other artists. And when she did run into one at the gallery, she might not recognize them later because everyone was hidden behind a mask. As restrictions eased, Marianna became an integral and dynamic part of the team.

Marianna Smith , an artist at Brush Strokes Gallery, will be packing up her car this month and heading hundreds of miles north toSyracuse NY. While we are sad to see her leave town, we are excited for her and her new adventure: pursuing a MFA (Master of Fine Arts) in illustration at Syracuse University

Marianna comes from a military and multi-cultural family. Her father was with the U S Marine Corps, and met her mom in Brazil. Marianna has visited Sao Paulo several times. Perhaps her creative spark can be traced to her grandmother who still lives there, and enjoys making jewelry, clothing and fiber art. Because of her background, Marianna wants to specialize in stories and illustrations for Latin American kids

Wherever she ends up, those of us in the Burg can say "We knew her when!"

You can follow Marianna Smith's artistic journey through her website: mariannasmith com

Penny A Parrish is a member of and past-President of Brush Strokes Gallery.

Marianna's ties to our area are strong. She graduated from Chancellor High School in 2016, and from VCU in May of 2020 with a degree in Communication Arts. By 2021 she was teaching art in her former high school, with students at all levels from Art 1 to AP classes. Her two years of teaching gave her an opportunity to mentor several talented students. One in particular stands out, and Marianna has encouraged her to apply to VCU to study art. "She was an absolute joy to work with," says Marianna. "She invented her own techniques like working with oil sticks and a palette knife. It was great fun to watch her grow." Marianna says the students made teaching enjoyable and she hopes to stay in touch with many of them.

When Marianna joined Brush Strokes in 2020, it was a weird time due to COVID. The gallery was only open a few days a week, and with the lack of First

When you ask Marianna to choose her favorite artistic medium, she responds with a puzzled look. They are ALL her favorites because each method produces a different feel and smell. But there is no doubt that her favorite style is children's illustrations. She has selfpublished a graphic book "Astropals," created art for two different children's authors, and imagined her own artistic versions of stories in the public domain such as "The Velveteen Rabbit." She is especially drawn to little critters like mice and hamsters, but also finds joy in illustrating people. She has dabbled with computer art. It's a quicker and easier way to fix mistakes than a watercolor, for example, and you don't have to wait for art to dry like you do with oil. But the lack of a tactile presence makes it a bit cold and disconnected. Give her pens, ink, brushes and paint instead.

Marianna plans to return to Fredericksburg and show her new art during summers at Brush Strokes. When asked what she hopes to be doing five years from now, she wants to be teaching art at the college level and work with mainstream publishers and authors to showcase her art. The possibility of teaching at VCU and coming full circle, also appeals to her.

donatelifevirginia.org

Sarah Perry , our Executive Director for 10 years, is moving on! While we will miss her, we are grateful for the time, sweat, and tears she has put into our organization. We know she is going to do great things!

We managed to grab her for a few minutes to ask her a few things about her time here…

Q: Proudest moment?

A: The first Youth Farm Program Dinner Watching the kids proudly making and serving food that they grew to their families still brings tears to my eyes. It was so rewarding.

Q: What goals did you achieve?

A: I saw the potential of the space and the

opportunity to engage with our community through youth programming and other programs.

Q:Favorite Programs DTG?

A: Currently the Cocktail Workshop Series

Everything Greens Thank

You and Farewell

By Janet Douberly

Past favorites are the rain barrel class with Friends of the Rappahannock, cheese workshop with DeLaura, the Ayurveda class, too many to name. Our programs are community driven. If you can dream it, you can do it.

Q: Hopes for the future of DTG?

A: Too many to list but seeing the New Land fill its potential and become an even bigger benefit to the community is definitely one.

Q: Biggest Lesson Learned?

A: Patience. Everything takes time. Now let's hear a few words from the lady herself…

It is with bittersweet feelings that I announce that I will be stepping down from my position as E x e c u t i v e Director of D o w n t o w n Greens in September of this year. Downtown Greens has always been much more than just a job for me, it has been my passion. The people and mission will remain a permanent and very cherished part of my life.

It's been such a joy to witness the positive effects of youth and adult programming thanks to our talented educators bringing people closer to nature and the food that they eat. At its base, though, the garden is a community space and respite, a forever-protected urban oasis for all to enjoy. One sevenyear-old neighbor who I met when I first arrived on the job, reminisced, 10 years later, "I could never forget the one place where I always felt comfortable and free."

I am excited for the future of Downtown Greens. I will forever be grateful for the many volunteers who helped and the 520 donors who came together, even when many thought we couldn't do it, to raise the capital needed to secure Downtown Greens' new 56-acre parcel of land in the City of Fredericksburg. Saving the land from

development was a forever accomplishment that will endure for generations to come. The newly acquired land creates a strong foundation into which the organization can grow its mission and vision.

I believe deeply in this organization and its mission. I am confident that the next person who steps into this role will come in with fresh ideas and energy and will be able to take DTG to the next level.

It was an honor to serve as executive director for the past 10 years. I'm proud of how far we've come and I'm excited to see what's next. Thank you to the staff, board of directors-past and present, volunteers, donors, grantors, neighbors and children for support, guidance, company, fun and friendship.

With Gratitude, Sarah Perry

Janet Douberly is excited for the future at Downtown Greens

Publisher’s Note:

It has been a pleasure working with Sarah these past ten yers & we wish her well in her future endeavors We are sure we haven’t heard the last of her!

In the Garden Scotland’s Great Climate by tina will

staffing meant that lawns didn't get mowed regularly. Light dawned when they realized that leaving grasses to grow under trees was a better choice than mulching, and that just mowing a path around or through their meadows created a different and lovely effect, and was also a winner for the pollinating insects, small animals, and employee work load as well.

My husband and I visited gardens and castles in southern Scotland in July, and kept marveling at the variety. Scotland's climate is amazing; though far north of Virginia (and USA), the effects of the Gulf Stream create a mild and moist climate which keeps plants happy and growing. Palm trees at Crathes and Culzean Castles, and other gardens can be grown in protected areas. At Benmore Botanic Garden ferns are several feet high in their 150 year old 'fernery,' and Giant Sequoias are 'teenagers' at 170 years old and close to 200 feet tall. On the island of Iona fuchsia grows as a large shrub.

The pandemic changed many things for gardeners around the world. At some castles and gardens the reduced

I am always drawn to color and contrast in the landscape, but it's not that easy to do well. Reds, yellows, blues, and greens add great interest, but foliage size and overall height or shape also play a part. While there we toured some of the loveliest gardens and professional horticultural schools (Threave and Royal Botanic Garden ) that demonstrate and teach aspiring students how to grow and display shrubs, trees, foliage, and flowers in ways that were not repetitive or predictable no matter where we went. A few pictures are provided; better yet, plan a trip!

Flower Show in August

Master Gardeners launched the second Pollinator and Flower show event at the downtown library in late June.

Children and parents asked lots of questions and received sprouted plants that will flower in time to be part of our 2nd Flower Show that will be held August 22-23. The goal is to encourage people to enjoy growing flowers for beauty and fun, and for the benefit of the pollinating insects as well. Information to participate is at https://www.mgacra.org/june.html, and the August calendar also. Bring a flower; earn a ribbon!

Seed Swap 2024

My Echinaceas will be setting seed soon, so this is a reminder to harvest seeds to bring to our Seed Swap planned for January 27, 2024. Our event last January was a great success, educational, and great for children too. Encourage your friends and family to participate. Look for information later this Fall on mgacra.org.

Tina Will is a Master Gardener and lives in Stafford County. She can be reached at brianandtina.will@gmail.com

We've all seen the beautiful site a Butterfly Bush can be in the summer. With its conical purple flowers springing outward, attracting dozens of butterflies that flit around it quite quaintly, no one would ever think that this plant is causing a big problem!

Butterfly Bush or 'Buddleja davidii' is an invasive species of deciduous shrub that originated from central China. Growing up to 15' tall, it blooms from mid-summer to early fall.

Butterfly Bush is excellent at reproduction, giving it an advantage over our native flowering shrubs and crowding them out. Each flower spike on the plant releases over 40,000 seeds. These lightweight seeds travel far by way of water or wind with a +80% germination rate!

And while butterflies love all the nectar produced by the copious flowers, that nectar is only feeding the butterflies

Growing & Crawling deceptively beautiful

By janet douberly

during one part of their life cycle. The Butterfly Bush does not play host to any of our native insects! Meaning our native butterflies cannot lay their eggs on it and the caterpillars cannot eat the plant

That's not to say this shrub doesn't play hosts to ANY insects. The hated and invasive stink bug loves these shrubs and uses them to host their larvae and spread their numbers

If you have a butterfly bush in your garden, consider replacing it with a beautiful native shrub, or at least a noninvasive variant, that will play a true host to our native butterflies

Janet Douberly attracts dozens of butterflies at Downtown Greens.

“I Have A Friend” a sweet friendship nourishes the soul

By joyce kinnard

It is my pleasure to highlight Gary and Wallace as one of the many Senior Visitor program's success stories. Both have been involved with the program for about a year. A recent interview with Gary and Wallace disclosed a bond the two men have formed, with sports as the glue that binds them together. It was easy to see their blossoming friendship and mutual respect for one another.

Wallace recalls being led to the program through his insurance company. He says Gary is "a wonderful man, very pleasant to be around". An avid lover of sports, it gives him joy to be paired with someone who also loves sports. Wallace said his life was very lonely after his wife passed, but the Senior Visitors program gives him a chance to get out of the house. When Gary first met Wallace, he was concerned about establishing a rapport. How could he connect and communicate well with him? It didn't take long for Gary to realize that he and Wallace have so much in common. Not only did Wallace

seem much younger than his age, they both grew up on farms in rural Virginia. Both have close-knit families and adult children whom they adore. Wallace has lots of interesting stories to tell and Gary enjoys hearing them. Most importantly, Gary and Wallace share a love of all sports. Gary was introduced to the Senior Visitors program when one of the members of his Spotsylvania Lions Club spoke on the subject at a club meeting. He was intrigued by what he heard and felt "called" to work with the program. Gary, a former hospice worker, says he has always enjoyed working with seniors.

A typical visit for the two includes a weekly breakfast visit at Denny's, spending time at home chatting about or watching sports, or attending a Fredericksburg Nats game. Their favorite college level teams are those at the University of Virginia.

I asked Gary "What would you tell someone who is considering volunteering with the Senior Visitors program", and he responded, "it takes very little commitment of time and brings lots of satisfaction seeing your program participant enjoy their day." Gary looks forward to each visit with Wallace. He says an unexpected benefit is that their visits make him feel better when in theory they are designed to make the program participant feel better.

I feel confident that this duo will continue to make many memories together. Their experiences with the Senior Visitors program serve to underscore the reason the program was created - to address the loneliness and isolation of older adults.

If you know a senior who could benefit from having a weekly, friendly visit or if you would like to volunteer to visit a senior, call the Senior Visitors Program at (540) 371-22704 or visit our website at mhafred org Refer a senior or sign up to be a volunteer! The Senior Visitors Program is a free community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg

Joyce Kinnard is a volunteer with the Senior Visitors program at Mental Health America of Fredericksburg.

Supporting Local Business

Since 1997

E v e r y d a y T h i n g s planters peanuts

By Archer D i peppe

Amendo Obici was seven when his father died. At eleven, he was put on a ship from Italy to America to live with his uncle. It was 1888. The 3000-mile voyage took three months. He had almost no money or possessions, and he couldn't speak English. He had a large tag tied to his coat with his name and final destination-- Willes-BBarre, Pennsylvania At that time, you did not need a passport or visa to land at Ellis Island

He made it to New York, but somehow he was misdirected to Scranton. A policeman found him sitting on the curb crying. He was taken to an Italian family who took care of him. He decided to work at their fruit stand and go to night school to learn English. He would later marry their daughter Louise.

At the marketplace, vendors began selling roasted peanuts. They smelled wonderful. After the Civil War, Union soldiers brought back a desire for them No one ate peanuts in the South except livestock and poor people

Peanuts were originally from South America, and the Spanish brought them to Africa. Slavers used them as cheap food for their human cargos. That is how peanuts came to America.

Amendo was a genius. He went to the scrapyard for parts to make a roaster. He needed repeat customers, so he created the brand Planters Peanuts A high school boy won a $5 contest to come up with the original drawings A graphic artist added a top hat, spats, a cane, and a monocle

Amendo needed to change the image from poor folks' food to well-to-do people's food. He called it Planters Peanuts to further capitalize on the wealth of the South's planters. Virginia was known

worldwide as having the best peanuts Suffolk was the center of peanut farming. That's where he bought his peanuts.

Later he moved the manufacturing plant to Suffolk. Then he moved his family there. In this way, he eliminated middlemen and shipping cost. As the years went on, he created thousands of jobs not only in the South, but also across our nation

Amendo Obici was well-known for his philanthropy. Antonio Gentile, that kid who won the $5 prize, became an Eagle Scout and Valedictorian of his class. Amendo put him through college and medical school at UVA. His original drawings of Mr Peanut are now in the Smithsonian Amendo helped a large number of people over his lifetime.

After Louise died, Obici set up a trust to honor her memory, which built Suffolk's first hospital and then a new hospital there again in 2002. He also built a wing onto the hospital in his hometown in Italy.

Amendo Obici passed away in 1947. Planters was sold in 1960 to Standard Brand and then changed hands a number of times through different corporate enterprises.

Amendo Obici's story is America's story. A young boy, who couldn't speak English and had no money, built an empire through hard work and an enterprising spirit.

Archer Di Peppe is retired and lives in Spotsylvania County

Publisher’s Note: We welcome Arch back to our “Porch” He will be writing a recurrent column of “Everyday Things

Ristorante Renato Patio Completed Ristorante Renato in downtown Fredericksburg has finished its beautiful new 4-season outdoor patio.

Renato's, which recently celebrated its 45th anniversary, converted a portion of its parking lot off William Street into outdoor dining during the COVID pandemic, with much success.

The restaurant's owners later decided to build a patio that features beautiful brickwork, landscaping, lighting and a covering with eight louvered retractable awnings that can hold up to 2 feet of snow.

Renato's is located at 422 William Street. Ask to be seated on their patio!

TidBits

small bites of local News

America's Oldest Agricultural Fair through August 6

By Bill Freehling

The Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair at Fredericksburg's fairgrounds off Dixon Street near the intersection of Lansdowne Road.. New for this year - a brand-new restroom facility at the fairgrounds!

Mangoes Offers Fast, Delicious Jamaican Cuisine

Mangoes is a drive-thru restaurant with outdoor seating, and offers fast Jamaican cuisine. The Owners of Pimenta in Downtown felt that quick-

Harry's Sidecar Open for Business

Harry's Sidecar, a tasting room next to Harry's Downtown.. Guests can reserve tables at the gorgeous establishment, and enjoy upscale items such as high-quality steak and seafood, pristine craft beer, and delicious cocktails. Co-owner Trevor Sherwin said that the new room is adjacent to the Harry's dining room, as well as a separate entity; and yet, it is still an exciting addition to Harry's, hence the name "Sidecar." Sherwin said that Harry's Sidecar has allowed the kitchen to work with the highest end meats that are available, as well as to provide upscale small plates that are not offered in the dining room. The cocktails at Harry's Sidecar are experimental and top notch, and include ingredients such as bitters made in-house and dried fruit.

Local Babe Ruth World Series starts Aug 3

Some of the best 14-year-old baseball players in the world will be in the Fredericksburg area August 3-13 for the Babe Ruth World Series.

The 14-year-old division of the Babe Ruth World Series will be in Fredericksburg and Stafford County during that time. Stafford Baseball League is putting on the event, which will be held at Chichester Park in Stafford (early rounds) and the Virginia Credit Union Stadium in Fredericksburg (later rounds). There will be 14 teams, including ones from Aruba, Australia and Mexico

VRE Fare-FFree Fridays Thru Sept 1 Free service on Fridays this summer. Riders can travel without paying a fare at any of the VRE stations on the Manassas and Fredericksburg Lines. Time to ride a train!

order Jamaican food is uncommon not only in Fredericksburg, but throughout the country. It was an easy choice to open their second business in Fredericksburg . With Mangoes, they are giving guests a quick, affordable option for Jamaican food such as smoothies, milkshakes, and sandwiches.

Some of the best sellers at Mangoes include the Mango Pineapple, Strawberry Banana, and Passionfruit smoothies. Their milkshakes are made with Jamaican ice cream, with flavors such as Mango, Coconut, and Banana

Mangoes is located at 1075 Gateway Blvd

Port Oysteria & Brewery

Opening soon at 106 George St (formerly Spencer Devon). The Port Oysteria & Brewery is bringing a new, first-of-its-kind concept to FXBG a modern raw bar that pairs fresh seafood with craft beer brewed onsite in the 10-barrel brewhouse.

Harry's Sidecar will be open Wednesday-Saturday starting at 4pm, with happy hour from 4-6pm; and is Located at 1002 Winchester St between Harry's Downtown & next to Winchester parking garage

Bill Freehling, Fredericksburg's director of economic development and tourism

August is here - usually hot, humid yet rain-parched days segueing one into another. Temperatures hovering in the ‘90s even at suppertime, and it’s another day where you just don’t feel like cooking. Sound familiar? Well, don’t just grab another bag of salad mix at the store and call it a day - head instead to the farmer’s market (or maybe your backyard or community garden) to pick up a seasonal veggie base for summer cold bowls. Meals in a bowl have been trending for the past few years - well, actually forever - or as long as man has needed to combine or contain his foods. Oriental rice bowls, like Korean bibimbap (rice and vegetables) have done much to popularize the concept of bowls of grains or noodles, vegetables and protein coming together for a healthy and filling meal. Easy cleanup, too! I admit I do find some recipes hilarious - particularly the ones of “deconstructed” meals served bowl-wise. Really? Chopping and carefully layering “chef salad” ingredients still make it a chef salad, albeit chopped - I’ve hardly been able to pick up a food column this summer without reading a breathless account of this “new” way of eating. Well, if you’ve ever grazed over a salad bar, you’re already a summer cold bowl member. Now, just bring it home. And PS - If you have a spiralizer, it's great for summer veggies!

Prepare one package of yellow rice as directed, then chill. Divide between four deep bowls. Top each with about two ounces chopped dry Spanish chorizo sausage (this is already precookedMexican or Cuban sausage generally is raw and must be cooked, but can be used as well). Drain and rinse one fifteen-ounce can of black beans and divide between the bowls. Top each with one tablespoon finely chopped red onion (or more to taste), one-half cup chopped fresh tomato, onethird cup each julienne of jicama and carrots, one-half chopped avocado, then top with minced fresh cilantro and green onions, minced hot pepper too if desired. To one cup prepared Italian salad dressing, add two teaspoonfuls cumin, one-half teaspoon turmeric and one teaspoon oregano leaves. Shake, then divide between the bowls and serve with a crusty loaf of bread on the side.

CHICKEN SALAD

Prepare enough wild rice to yield four cups, using chicken broth instead of water. Chill wild rice and divide between four bowls. Add four ounces of grilled and

chopped chicken breast to each bowlthen layer on one-half cup thinly sliced celery, one-quarter cup chopped sweet red pepper, two ounces of chopped gouda or feta cheese, one-half cup chopped fresh tomato, one-quarter cup chopped green onion, a handful of matchstick carrots and minced fresh parsley. To one cup prepared ranch dressing, mix in one-half cup pureed avocado and one tablespoon lemon juice, along with one-quarter teaspoon each cracked black pepper, red pepper flakes and granulated garlic. Stir until well-combined. If too thick to pour, thin with a bit of buttermilk and divide between the bowls.

SOBA SHRIMP AND VEGETABLES

Cook one eight-ounce package soba noodles, chill and set aside, dividing between four deep bowls. Either cook, peel and devein two pounds of fresh 26-30 shrimp or defrost one and one-half pounds prepared and precooked shrimp. Pat completely dry with a paper towel. Whisk together three tablespoons each rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce and teriyaki sauce; two tablespoons light brown sugar, one-half teaspoon granulated garlic and one tablespoon Sriracha chili sauce. Pour over shrimp and stir until they are well-coated. In two tablespoons of canola oil over mediumhigh heat, saute two cups snow peas, one and one-half cup matchstick carrots and one-half cup finely chopped red onion three to four minutes or until the vegetables have begun to soften - remove

from heat and divide between the four bowls - divide the shrimp and sauce between the bowls then top with minced cilantro and plenty of chopped fresh Virginia peanuts.

KALE GOBBLE

Chop four cups kale into bite-size pieces - mix together with one half teaspoon salt and set aside for fifteen minutes or so until the kale begins to soften and wilt a bit. Divide between two deep bowls, top each with one half cup chopped cooked turkey, one half cup peeled and chopped apple, one half cup thinly sliced celery, one tablespoon chopped red onion, two tablespoons Craisins and one quarter cup chopped English walnuts. Add to one half cup mayonnaise one tablespoon each lemon juice and sugar - dollop half on each salad, then top each with one teaspoon lemon zest. If you own a spiralizer - you can start this bowl with spiralized sweet potatoessaute a pound in a bit of canola oil over medium high heat until the potatoes are browned and crunchy. Start or end your bowl with the sweet potatoes, very lightly salted.

Vanessa has yummy recipes for every season.

CUBAN BLACK BEAN BOWL

Diet & Fitness

ALTER YOUR EATING HABITS

BY CHER MURPHY

everyone likes the same foods. It's no help to get a menu or shopping plan filled with items you wouldn't eat or cannot find at your local store. A dietitian can create a custom diet plan that meets your lifestyle and preferences.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 42% of the US population is obese. These conditions put people at a greater risk for certain types of cancer, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. Most people know they need to lose weight, but they are often lost as to what to do to make it happen. The good news is that there is a resource not enough people are turning to simply because they are unaware of the many benefits.

"Working with a dietitian puts people ahead of the game, vastly increasing their chances of being successful with losing weight and getting well, " explains Jennifer Scherer , a registered dietitian nutritionist, medical exercise specialist, certified personal trainer and owner of Fredericksburg Fitness Studio "We've helped many people make healthy dietary and lifestyle changes."

Dietitians are specially trained people who can help others plan their diets, which can lead to a healthier lifestyle. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dietitians typically earn a bachelor's degree and undergo an internship. They can play an essential role in helping people to make healthy changes and improve their overall wellness.

Here are 5 life changing benefits of working with a dietitian to modify your eating habits:

Conflicting information. People seeking diet information often search online, only to find contradictory information. A lot of it is published by unqualified people rather than based on research, leaving the reader to be lost and confused. Working with a dietitian will help ensure that you get detailed information based on nutrition science

Customized plans. Only some people can follow the same diet plan because not

Support and accountability. It is easy to throw a diet or quest for a new eating habit out the window if nobody is looking. When you work with a dietitian, there is a sense of accountability and support When you meet with the person, you can discuss issues, challenges, concerns, successes, etc.

Address ailments. There are some specific issues that dietitians can help address, including pregnancy, food allergies, chronic diseases, high blood pressure, digestive problems, eating disorders, and diabetes. Getting a customized plan with support that addresses a specific issue can be beneficial.

You need help. Most people who want to make diet and lifestyle changes have attempted it independently. Usually, many times. They are at the point where they know they need help. This is a great time to turn to work with a dietitian, so there will be actual results rather than another disappointing attempt

"Rather than being discouraged and giving up, as often happens, give working with a dietitian a try," added Scherer. "If you commit to yourself for a few months by working with a dietitian and personal trainer, you will be amazed at the results and wish you had done it sooner."

Scherer is a registered dietitian who works to help people improve their diet, plan for sustainable weight loss, and offer ways to incorporate healthier food choices. She and her team offer nutrition coaching services, wellness, personal training, in-home medical training, virtual personal training, and a Pilates reformer program, which features a versatile machine designed to provide resistance. It can be used when standing, sitting, or lying down. All workouts on it are customtailored for the individual to address their physical fitness concerns.

Contact Jennifer Scherer at www.fburgfitness.com.

Cher Murphy is President of Cher Murphy PR

"Pavlov's Dog" started as an experiment by Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov, who meant to discover how a condition response (a bell ringing) is the result of an unconditioned stimulus (food). The tool? The poor dog that hears the bell and immediately salivates whether or not he is presented with food. He went on to prove that these responses also occur in humans.

Instead of hearing a bell ring, will a smell cause the same salivating reaction whether or not you actually get wine or something to eat or drink? Consider: the sense of smell holds a stronger, more sensitive, sway over sensory experiences than taste. An aroma can evoke a powerful emotion or memory. An aroma can just remind us that we are hungry too. The tongue then confirms what the nose has already determined. A sip or a bite is where the tongue experiences basic sensations of sweet, sour, bitter, savory, salty, fatty, spicy.. Any of which tells the brain that digestion enzymes need to be activated, meaning to salivate.

How does this relate to wine?

There is a progression of activities to academically taste wine: See, Swirl, Sniff, Sip, and Savor. Don't just glide over this, there is enhanced enjoyment when you take time with each step. Now, there are wines with a more pronounced bouquet than others. Wines with bitter, sour, and salty characteristics generally make for higher salivation than sweet, savory, and fatty characteristics.

Starting with Picpoul (aka Piquepoul), from Languedoc, southern France. There it has been cultivated for centuries, and its name translates to "stings the lips" in Occitan, alluding to its high acidity. The grape has been used in still and sparkling wines and is valued for adding freshness to blends. The Picpoul de Pinet appellation, near Thau Lagoon, is dedicated to white wines made from Picpoul. Picpoul has gained popularity globally for its refreshing acidity and enticing flavors, leading to cultivation and experimentation in various wineproducing countries like the United States, Australia, and Spain. The lip smacking 2022 Les Costieres de Pomerols Cap Cette is a classic example with its saltiness and high acidity. It begs you for another sip.

by Rita Allan

Bringing out the salt in full force are Spanish Alberino's, from the Rias Baixas region. The wind that travels over the gulf stream picks up ocean moisture and then smacks into the western-facing cliffs of Spain. The wind drops its salt precipitation on Alberino vineyards. The 2021 Bodegas as Laxas, Alberino may have a soft lemon, with greenish tinges in color. Just the aromas will get you salivating with citrus lemon-lime, ripe pineapple, wet stone, and salt.

Cool climates preserve natural acidity. What better than Marlborough New Zealand for this effervescent Sauvignon Blanc ? New Zealand is surrounded by water, where the currents flow from the cold Arctic toward the land. NV Lake Chalice Sky Bubbles makes you start to salivate at the moment of popping the cork. It has bright, intense aromas of blackcurrant leaf, gooseberry, and white flowers, with an underlying green capsicum and tropical fruits. It has lively, high acidy with lifting bubbles, jumping out flavors of gooseberry, lime juice, and white grapefruit. You'll taste soft melons, and tropical fruit.

The 2021 Wines of Adam Malagousia from Thessaloniki, Greece. Malagousia resides on the southern coast of the mainland, Greece. Just in the last few years it has been gaining popularity for its rich Jasmine-floral nose and lemonlime citrus nose. On the palate, it is slightly selenic with notes of white peach, lemon blossom, melon, pineapple, honey, and layers of complexity. Here, the elevation is the key to the cooler climate helping to keep the acidity.

City Vino at 810 Caroline St is were you will find owner Rita Allan to provide you answers to all your wine questions

CALEND

Live Music Something Shiny @6B&G, 7-9:30p, 1140 International Pkwy

Snaps Poetry & Spoken Word, Inspir to CLAP / SNAP / STOMP, Katora C

Tuesday August 1 FXBG Agricultural Fair thru Aug 6, FXBG Fairgrounds

Wednesday August 2

Spotsy Med Center Farmers Market Parking Lot, 2-6p

Women in the Woods From picking the right shoes to trail safety, experienced hiker Liz Ritoli will set you up for a successful hike . FxbgFood CoOP, 320 Emancipation Hwy, 6p

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm 720 Littlepage

Open Mic@Katora Coffee, 615 Caroline St, 7-10p, Audience is invited to CLAP / SNAP / STOMP, as long as it does not distract the performer.

Thursday August 3

Adult Tabletop Game Night, Play old games, learn how to play new ones, or bring a game to share. , CRRL Fxbg Branch, 5:30-7:30p

Live Music Mike Wheelehan & Mick Houck @Fxbg Food CoOp, 320 Emancipation Hwy, 6p

Live Music Acoustic Onion, @Colonial Tavern, 406 Lafayette 7p

Live Music, Larry Hinkle, Highmark Brewery, 390 Kings Hwy, 7-10p

First Friday August 4

VRE Fare Free Fridays in Summer thru-Sept1 tickets not required

Brush Strokes Gallery Featured Artists Megan & Liana Pivirotto, Opening reception, 5-9p, 824 Caroline St

Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts, Matt Williams in Members Gallery, Artist Choice, Barbara Taylor Hall & Kevin Whichello

“The Epic Flight”Collection of New Work by Joel Simpson Opening Reception 6-9p Art First, 824 Caroline St

“Wildlife Photography” Paul Snyder Opening Reception, 5-8:30p Canal Quarters Arts, 1517 Princess Anne

"Entrophy” Works by Pat Andrews Artful Dimensions 922 Caroline St Opening Reception, 6-9pm

PONSHOP “POP-UP MARKET”5-8pm 712 Caroline Street

Sounds of Summer Concert Series Brisk 90's Alternative, 6:30-8: 30p Market Square

Snaps Poetry & Spoken Word,Bring those rhymes, flows + heart-torn woes. Inspire or be inspired. We're all family here. Audience is invited to CLAP / SNAP / STOMP, as long as it does not distract the performer. Katora Coffee, 615 Caroline St, 8-10p

Live Music, Frqnzy & Friends @J2's Restaurant & Lounge, 8p

Saturday August 5

Art in the Park at Fxbg Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park, 7a-1p Fxbg Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park,7a-2p, Spotsy Farmers Market , 8am - 1pm 12150 Gordon Rd

Live Music MarJo Delux@ A Smith Bowman Distillery Join us Summerfest lots of distilled products, food, crafts great music. Music starts at 11 A

Live Music Sign of the Swarm @ KC's Music Alley, 1917 Princess Anne St. 6:30-11p

Live Music Spike @6B&G, 1140 International Pkwy, 12:30-3:30p

Live Music Goodtime Alibi @6B&G, 1140 International Pkwy, 7-9p

Sunday August 6

Beach Music Bash, True Soul band, the Band of Oz and DJ Cathy Lynn music, food and family fun! Patriot Park, 5710 Smith Station Rd, 2-10p

Monday August 7

Music on the Steps, Wellbillies, 6:30 -7:30p, CRRL FXBG BRanch

Wednesday August 9

Spotsy Med Center Farmers Market Parking Lot, 2-6p

Open Mic, Katora Coffee, 615 Caroline St, 7-10p, Audience is invited to CLAP / SNAP / STOMP, as long as it does not distract the performer.

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm 720 Littlepage

Live Music, Chromatic Static@ Courtyard Marriott Downtown, 620 Caroline St, 6-9p

Thursday August 10

Sunken Well Art Show, 6-9p, 720 Littlepage St

Live Music, Larry Hinkle, Highmark Brewery, 390 Kings Hwy, 7-10p

Friday August 11

Red Cross Blood Drive, Amer Legion Post 55, 461 Woodford St, 10a-3p

Sounds of Summer Concert Series, Shades of Gray, Dance 70's to today, 6:30-8:30p, Market Square

Kathryn Murray “Some Joyful Noise” Artist Alliance, Opening 6-9p 100 Taylor St., Suite 101, Colonial Beach.

Live Music ChippBurg @6B&G, 1140 International Pkwy, 7-9p

Live Music Suzie & Stephen @Adventure Brewing North, 7-9p

Live Music Anthony G Solo Acoustic @Courtyard Marriott Downtown, 620 Caroline St, 6-9p

Saturday August 12

Dog Dayz at the Fxbg Farmers Mark

Fxbg Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park Spotsy Farmers Market , 8am - 1pm VA Black Business Expo & Food Tru vendors FXBG Convention Center, 1

Denny Wong Special Event@ Crown store with an amazing selection of j

Live Music, Metal on the Yard Brewery, 5-10p,

Live Music Acoustic Onion @Amy's C

Live Music Movin'On Band @6B&G,

Live Music Sabin Mills @Adventure B

Sunday August 13

FXBG VA Bridal Show, Fxbg Fairgro

Live Music Tony Craddock, Jr @Fxbg

Monday August 14

Music on the Steps, CRRL FXBG Bran

Tuesday August 15

Author Talks, The Prophets, R librarypoint.org/lsc-authors, 4p

Wednesday August 16

Spotsy Regional Medical Center Fa Pkwy, 2-6p

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm

Open Mic@Katora Coffee, 615 Carol CLAP / SNAP / STOMP, as long as it

Thursday August 17

Live Music, Larry Hinkle, Highmark B

Friday August 18

EDW Brawlers Wresting , Fxbg Fairg Sounds of Summer Concert Series E Square 6;30-8:30P

Live Music Ryan French@6B&G, 114 Cafe, 919 Caroline St, 7-10p

Live Music ELLE Jay Latin Night @Cu

540~479~4116 1013 Princess Anne St , FXBG

DAR of events

re or be inspired. Audience is invited

offee, 615 Caroline St, 8-10p

ket, 7a-1p

k,7a-2p, 12150 Gordon Rd uck Festival, & Career Fair over 100 1a-5p, show thru Sunday

Jewelers, Denny will be here in the ewelry. 9a-5:30p, 200 William St & Sspiral Fracture @Strangeways

Cafe, 7p, 103 W Cambridge St 1140 International Pkwy, 7-9p Brewing North, 7-9p

ounds, 2400 Airport Ave, 1-4p Fairgrounds, 1p

nch, 6:30-7: B.E. Farrow & What Got

Robert Jones Jr, CRRL, Virtual,

rmers Market, 4600 Spoty County

m 720 Littlepage

line St, 7-10p, Audience is invited to does not distract the performer.

Brewery, 390 Kings Hwy, 7-10p rounds 7-9p)

Elby Brass, Heavy Horn Funk, Marlet

40 International Pkwy, 7-9pba Arts urit

Saturday August 19

Art in the Park at Fxbg Farmers Market with Live Music, 7a-1p Fxbg Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park,7a-2p, Spotsy Farmers Market , 8am - 1pm 12150 Gordon Rd

Porchfest, celebrating community through music on neighborhood porches on Hanson Ave between Fall Hill Ave & Charles St, 11a-5p

Escape Room in a Box, Does your team have what it takes to solve the puzzles and beat the clock? Teams can have up to 8 people. Teams will compete to work their way through a series of puzzles and clues in the least amount of time. Dorothy Hart Community Center, 10-12:30p, 408 Canal St

VA Bourbon & Beer Festival, FXBG Fairgrounds, 4-9p

Annual Elmhurst Ave Block Party, Mo's City Soups, 1906 Elmhurst Ave 4p

Live Music Surf Junkies @Billiken's, 623 Caroline St, 6p. Limbo contest, Hula Dancing, Hawaiian Shirt contest

Live Music Retro Active @6B&G, 1140 International Pkwy, 7-9:30p

Zoom Comedy Presents My Condolences @Fxbg Square, 525 Caroline St, 7-10p

Live Music Courtney King and the Knockout with Ladia @Eleven Eleven, 1111 Lafayette Blvd,Two fierce female-fronted Fredericksburg bands join forces to combat homelessness. Loisann's Hope House

Monday August 21 Music on the Steps, CRRL FXBG Branch, 6:30-7:30p, Harry Wilson Jazz

Wednesday August 23

Spotsy Med Center Farmers Market Parking Lot, 2-6p

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm 720 Littlepage

Open Mic@Katora Coffee, 615 Caroline St, 7-10p, Audience is invited to CLAP / SNAP / STOMP, as long as it does not distract the performer.

Author Talks, hain of Thorns, Cassandra Clare, CRRL, Virtual, librarypoint.org/lsc-authors, 8p

Thursday August 24

Live Music, Larry Hinkle, Highmark Brewery, 390 Kings Hwy, 7-10p

Friday August 25

Weecycled Wardrobe Sale, Score a deal on clothing, accessories, toys, and more , Fxbg Field House, 3411 Shannon Park Dr, 10a-8p Sale thru Sat Free Food Distribution, Downtown Greens Upper Garden, 5:30-7p

Sounds of Summer Concert Series The Judy Chops, Mountain Swing, Market Square, 6:30-8:30p

FXBG Burger Bash @Strangeways Brewery, join us for a day of Burgers & Brews, 12n-6p, 350 Landsdowne Rd

Live Music Brisk@6B&G, 1140 International Pkwy, 7-9:30p

Live Music Harry Wilson Jazz @Courtyard Marriott Downtown, 620 Caroline St, 6-9p

Snaps Poetry & Spoken Word,Bring those rhymes, flows + heart-torn woes. Inspire or be inspired. We're all family here. Audience is invited to CLAP / SNAP / STOMP, as long as it does not distract the performer. Katora Coffee, 615 Caroline St, 8-10p

Saturday August 26

Fxbg Farmers Market, Hurkamp Park,7a-2p, Spotsy Farmers Market , 8am - 1pm 12150 Gordon Rd

8th Annual Fur Ball Gala Celebrate SPCA's 80th Anniversary Dress to impress for a totally rad evening of dinner, drinks, dancing, arcade games, and auctions! Don't miss out on the Fredericksburg region's biggest night of philanthropy for the animals! , 6p, Fxbg Convention Center

Live Music Whiskey Revival @6B&G, 1140 International Pkwy, 7-9:30p

Sunday August 27

INDOOR Elite Tuner Car Show, models, music, full line-up of vendors , giveaways, Fxbg Convention Center, 2-8p

Monday August 28

Music on the Steps, Elby Brass, 6:30-7:30p, CRRL Fxbg Branch

Wednesday August 30

Spotsy Med Center Farmers Market Parking Lot, 2-6p

Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm 720 Littlepage

Open Mic@Katora Coffee, 615 Caroline St, 7-10p, Audience is invited to CLAP / SNAP / STOMP, as long as it does not distract the performer.

Author Talks, Who Gets in & Why, Inside College Admissions, Jeffrey Selingo CRRL, Virtual, librarypoint.org/lsc-authors, 2p

Thursday August 31

Live Music, Larry Hinkle, Highmark Brewery, 390 Kings Hwy, 7-10p

If you are reading this 313th issue of FPF, thank an advertiser now in our 27th year of continuous publication!

List your events email frntprch@aol com: subject Calendar Deadline for September 2023 issue is August 19th

Helping

stories

My Cannon

By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks

What’sinaLane? thornton’s tavern

By jon gerlach

I was just thinking the other day looking out my home office window at the cannon sitting in the front yard. I have had it for over 40 years and hardly a week goes bye that someone stops and ask about it. Having grown up in such a historic city I have always been interest in colonial and civil war history. There are several stories about cannons in the city going back several decades in fact into the occupation of the city by Union troops in December 1862.

The late D P Newton discovered a letter written by a Union officer that was in charge of troops that had taken over the Hope Iron Works in Fredericksburg prior to the battle . One interesting factor was that the Officer was camped on the Bowling Green Road in an abandoned Southern camp called Alexandria. The officer wrote that they had cast a battery of cannon at the foundry over several days. A Union Battery was 6 cannon, and a Confederate Battery was 4 cannon. So if this is true there were 6 cannon cast in Fredericksburg during the occupation. End of story, not exactly as no further information is known about the cannons other than some speculation in later stories.

In October 1925 a story in the local paper discussed an old cannon that was on the Court House Green for years may be connected to the Civil War. City Manager Houston had it reconditioned and mounted in concrete. It was said to be Civil War but that had others claiming it was not. W E Bradley a Civil War artillery veteran who was in Braxton's Battery CSA and current President of the City Council said it was definitely of the Civil War period. In fact Mr. Bradley said it was found very close to Marye's Heights after the battle. Councilman Bradley went on to say that a local businessman Bill Moon had it repaired remounted at the time President Tilden had been elected. Mr. Bradley further stated, that Mr. Moon had the cannon fired by James Wheeler to celebrate the election of the President Tilden and Mr. Wheeler lost an arm in the firing, the City of Fredericksburg paid the

claim and Mr. Moon donated the cannon to the City of Fredericksburg according to the Free Lance Star..

End of story, not yet in 1957 the Free Lance Start published a story in August, Old Sam Drafted A New To Add Scenic Touch. The cannon by this time had assumed the name "Old Sam Tilden”, many of us grew up seeing the cannon in front of the Information Center on Princess Anne Steet near the Falmouth Bridge and it was later moved to the location near the Fire Department on the lower Princess Anne Street. Until its recent restoration and now resides in front of the National Guard headquarters restored by the efforts of former Guard Commander David James. The story has another twist because as the story says the cannon had one big chance as when President Grover Cleveland visited Fredericksburg to dedicate the Mary Washington Monument on May 10, 1894 a salute was to be fired. The cannon discharged ahead of time and scared President Cleveland. End of story, not quite. Going back to 1953 Daniel Mitchell had a contract to demolish the old Hope Foundry located close to where the new court house is today, it was about this time that Mr. Mitchell came up with 2 cannon that he claimed he purchased, they remained in his home yard for many years until he sold the pair in the 1980's. Today we know that there are 3 cannon that are identical in measurements in the area one overlooking the Rapidan, one in front of the National Guard building and finally one in my yard. You can come to your own conclusion, however, like the late D.P Newton, I believe these cannon were cast in Fredericksburg in 1862 as a group of 6 and never were put in service and may have been still in the building when demolished in 1953. Like most historical stories we will never know the complete story. What we do know is that we have 3 identical cannon that are well preserved and are historic and continue to give the City that historic look.

Dedicated To: Carolyn Canaday, Herbert Raines, and Debbie Klein

Tuffy is Front Porch’s Resident Historian

As with so much of historic Fredericksburg, the Rappahannock River plays a vital role. Take Thornton's Tavern, the wonderful old building at 523 Sophia Street, overlooking the river and close to Riverfront Park Known as the oldest documented structure in Fredericksburg, it was built in 1746 by Thomas Thornton on an earlier foundation of brick and locally quarried sandstone (see photo).

The building we see today was built as an "ordinary" (aka tavern), adjacent to the town's first ferry Alongside the tavern, a dirt lane ran down to a wharf and the ferry landing, operated at one time by the same Thomas Thornton, and later by William Hunter The ferry remained in use until the 1820s. Thornton's Tavern originally fronted on this lane, as seen in the white recessed doorway today (see photo). The main entrance was moved to the street side of the house around 70 years after the ferry ceased operations.

One can imagine the foot traffic, wagons, and carts hauling goods and produce, that went up and down this lane. The water's edge here is intriguing in its own right, which once again, ties this story to the river. It saw three types of uses: the wharf and ferry landing, baptisms in the river, and the place for a cruel and unusual form of Colonial humiliation: the ducking stool

A ducking stool was a see-saw device for public punishment of wrongdoers, including criminals and "shrews" (women who dared to talk back), dating from Medieval times. The victim was bound in a chair attached to the end of a long lever that sat atop a fulcrum. As the shore end of the lever was raised, the other end - including the chair and victim - was pushed down ("ducked") into the water. If the action was not reversed soon enough, drowning could follow. Ducking stools were required equipment of local courts as early as 1661 under Virginia law.

Thornton's Tavern saw a lot of different uses through the centuries: residence (upholsterer John Eubank and his wife; taxidermist Michael Genzberger's

family), mercantile shop (Hunter's Store; later William H Owens Toy Store ), substance abuse treatment facility (Serenity House), and an office (Charles McDaniel's).

The building was extensively rehabilitated in 2013. The costs were defrayed to some extent by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources (VDHR) preservation tax credit program, Federal tax credits, and the City's tax abatement program. Dovetail Cultural Resources Group assisted with research and paperwork required for the tax credits. The project earned HFFI's E Boyd Graves Award for Preservation Excellence in 2014. The HFFI plaque on the building says: "Thornton's Tavern, re-built for merchant William Hunter, wharf and ferry owner."

Dovetail used dendrochronology (aka "tree ring dating") on original woodwork to help nail down the time of construction to 1746. This building is a survivor. The major floods of 1937 and 1942 inundated the property to a depth of about 5 feet above the floor, and the high water mark is still visible along interior walls. Which brings us back to the river again!

So … what's in a Lane? Here, the oldest surviving structure in town, and a reminder that the river has always played a major role in our history.

An attorney and retired archaeologist, Jon Gerlach serves on City Council, Ward 2

Photo by Jon Gerlach, artwork courtesy Waterford Whispers News.

Since the Civil War, Jewish families have played an important role in our city. Along with other German immigrants, they helped rebuild community after the Civil War, establishing much-needed businesses. In later years, they brought new enterprises and leadership to the community.

In 1856, Kaufman and Hannah Hirsh came from Baden, Germany, with their sons Isaac and Simon. The Hirshes and other German Jews left to avoid trade and marriage restrictions in their home country.

For years, the Hirsh family ran successful, popular businesses in Fredericksburg, selling all manner of

OUR HERITAGE jewish fredericksburg

By nancy moore

remembered as "a substantial pillar in the business life of Fredericksburg." His store at 920 Caroline Street was the area's largest seller of gentlemen's clothing.

Goldsmith's daughter, Ida , granddaughter of Kaufman Hirsh, married Henry Ulman in 1889. A three-column description of the "Charming Matrimonial Event," at the Opera House appeared in the Fredericksburg Star. Attendees included many of the town's leading citizens.

Henry Ulman ran a store that sold beer and cigars-until Prohibition came along. He and Ida had eight children. Ulman's Jewelry, opened in 1928 by son Simon, is still family owned.

1931 to manage the family-owned Washington Woolen Mills store at 819 Caroline Street Julian and Rose Levy bought the E M Curtis Department Store in 1941 and renamed it Carley's The popular women's clothing store stayed in business for 40 years at 215 William Street

When he moved to Fredericksburg in 1947, Carl D Silver first sold used cars. He and his wife, Maxine, a local girl, were married at the temple. Subsequently, as a land developer, Silver, with his son, Larry, changed the local landscape, bringing needed commercial growth. Maxine was heavily involved in philanthropic efforts, including Loisann's Hope House, the oldest family homeless shelter serving Fredericksburg.

merchandise. Isaac Hirsh became one of the city's leading citizens, running a dry goods store at 924 Caroline Street, and serving on the School Board and City Council-despite his Civil War record, which included desertion from the local Confederate infantry unit and collaboration with Union forces. His brother, David, and his son, Simon, ran the Fredericksburg Feed Store at 304 William Street. Simon, too, became a member of the City Council.

Isaac Hirsh's brother-in-law, Benjamin Goldsmith, had a store on Caroline Street and was an owner of the Opera House, an entertainment venue at the corner of Caroline and William streets. When Benjamin died in 1920, he was

Despite the prominence of these Jewish families, Beth Sholom Temple wasn't established until 1936. Among its first leaders were members of the Ulman, Goldsmith, and Hirsh families.

As the years went by, new Jewish families came to town. Reuben and Addie Miller opened Miller's, a women ' s specialty store Their son, Jerry, continued the family tradition at Miller's and T he Fashion Plate. Jerry Miller was a member of City Council.

Others opened larger businesses. Joseph Goldsmith helped bring G&H Manufacturing Co. here in the 1920s. He too was a member of City Council. Harold Morganstern ran Morganstern Pants Factory until foreign competition forced it to close in 1986. Frank Levinson arrived in

Debby and Albert Klein came in 1953, bringing a new level of cultural activity. He taught drama at Mary Washington College, and she promoted local theater and arts. Debby's wonderful interviews with local leaders, artists, writers, and historians are available on DVD through the library.

Sources for this article include Ruth Friedman's "A Portrait of Jewish Life, Fredericksburg, Virginia" and Josef Rokus' unpublished "Fredericksburg's German Heritage."

Nancy Moore is a member of the board of the Historic Fredericksburg Foundation, Inc.,

On September 10, HFFI will offer a walking tour of Jewish Fredericksburg

900 Barton St #111, Fredericksburg, VA www.crhcarchives.org

contact@crhcarchives.org

540-373-3704

Volunteers Wecome! Contact us about donating collections of documents and photographs

Central Rappahannock Heritage Center is a non-profit, all-volunteer archives whose mission is to preserve historically valuable material of the region and make it available to the public for research

Isaac and Maurice Hirsh in front of their store at 924 Caroline Street

Mental Health youth with record level of sadness

By daniel h. gillison, Jr.

funding and policies that enable all schools to increase access to appropriate mental health services for students.

Here at NAMI, we are continuing to expand our resources for youth and communities of varied cultures and identities through initiatives like our new online Ending the Silence program for middle school and high school students, partnership with HBCUs and sororities across the country, equipping faith leaders with mental health resources, and more. We've even expaneded a new texting option to our NAMI Helpline in an effort to make young people more comfortable reaching out for help. It will take all of us working together across industries to create meaningful change.

What You Can Do

The antidote to loneliness and hopelessness is purpose and connection.

A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention alarmingly illustrates the long-term mental health impacts COVID-19 had on our nation's youth.

According to the recently released data, in 2021:

More than 4 in 10 students felt persistently sad or hopeless

Nearly one-third of students experienced poor mental health

More than 1 in 5 students seriously considered attempting suicide

And 1 in 10 students attempted suicide

We also learned that some young people are struggling more than others:

Nearly 3 in 5 teenage girls felt persistent sadness in 2021, with 1 in 3 girls reporting that they considered attempting suicide-up nearly 60% from a decade ago

Nearly 3 in 4 LGBQ+ students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, with almost half of LGBQ+ students seriously considered attempting suicide and nearly 1 in 4 attempting suicide;

And suicide rates for young Black people age 10-24 increased significantly between 2018-2021.

These numbers sound alarm bells around the urgent need to address the mental health crisis among our youth and the ongoing disparities in care delivery. And they remind us of the severe consequences that come from sustained isolation and stress.

Our Response Reversing these trends will require ongoing national investments in mental health - including support for

If you are wondering how to support young people right now, the most important thing is to be intentional about engaging with them authentically and providing them with spaces to show their true selves and talk about how they're really doing.

Even though it may seem like a young person has a lot of friends on social media or elsewhere, many are feeling more isolated than ever right now, are struggling to keep up with a variety of pressures, and are still processing a lot of the collective traumas we've all experienced over the last few years. We can all play a role in providing young people with community and support by:

Educating ourselves on the issues young people are facing

Empowering young people, championing their voices, and truly listening to them

Spending time with young people, checking in on them and connecting them to further support

And advocating for more resources to increase early intervention through school systems and other places young people frequent

In a time where teenagers are facing record levels of sadness, we must meet them where they are to bring record levels of hope.

If you or someone you know are experiencing a substance use, suicide or mental health crisis, call or text 988 or chat at 988Lifeline org

Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. is the chief executive officer of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). Prior to his work at NAMI, he served as executive director of the American Psychiatric Association Foundation (APAF) in addition to several other leadership roles at various large corporations such as Xerox, Nextel, and Sprint. He is passionate about making inclusive, culturally competent mental health resources available to all people.

NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for millions of Americans affected by mental illness through education, support and advocacy

By Patrick Neustatter, MD

I was talking to my sister on the phone the other day. I told her, "You know, even though I've been at it all these years, I still get a little spazzed out about going to see patients"which I now do at the Moss Clinic.

Then I thought about. I corrected myself. " You know it's not the patients. It's having to wrestle with the computer. With the electronic medical record."

An Obligatory "Improvement" EMR (sometimes called electronic health record or EHR) was introduced in the 60's and 70's as the best thing since sliced bread.

There's no question paper charts are a pain with their illegible/Sanskrit hand writing, the problems of storage, filing, tracking, copying. So, as in so many walks of life, computers have insinuated themselves - encouraged by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2014, that meant doctors using EMR got paid more - and those who don't are penalized.

This has been a great business opportunity for developers of EMR - a report in the New England Journal of Medicine noted more than 700 different vendors and 1750 distinct certified products were in existence already by 2012.

They have cutesy names like Hummingbird, Remedly, CureMD, Medical Mastermind and Epic. But the lawyers and the economists got priority, so that EMR's are great for maximizing charges and avoiding malpractice claims - by including a ton of, mostly totally superfluous, information so they create totally unwieldy documents (try reading an ER progress note or discharge summary some time).

I also would like to talk to the people (presumably geeks) that build EMR. I would ask them why I have to scroll through multiple screens. pick lists, drop down menus and make a zillion keystrokes, just to do something as simple as order a lab test or write a prescription.

Also, why I have to over-ride a potential drug interaction warning when prescribing glucose testing strips- those strips you put a drop of blood on an stick in the meter to tell you your blood sugar

- which are not a drug of course. I would also ask "did you ever talk to a doctor in developing this?"

The greatest short coming however is lack of "interoperability ". Interoperability is a fancy word for computers being able to talk to each other. This is what makes you think, when you come to see me, I have all the records from the hospital, other doctors, the lab, the imaging department and know all about you.

I don't. My EMR won't talk to the majority of other EMR's, so we have call to get records faxed then scan them in the chart.

Doctor Burnout

These shortcomings are annoying - but they have a more serious side. EMR has been accused of being one of the prime causes of doctor burnoutwhich is hitting epidemic proportions.

I called Dana Tate, president and CEO of Fredericksburg medical billing company 'sa medical of Virginia' who has a lot of experience of different EMR's.

He did tell me the system we have at Moss is not one of the most user friendly (anyone want to start a GoFundMe to get us Epic?). But he noted a lot of older doctors are retiring because they can't hack the EMR. "The younger doctors who have grown up with computers are dealing with it better."

I guess I fit the old-farts category. A dinosaur in the computer age having trouble adjusting. But it bugs me that the business side has had priority. To quote the NIH, EMR's "seem to be badly designed to do the job they are meant to do and seem to have failed to make patient care better, more efficient, or more satisfying for the patient or the doctor."

MD is the Medical Director of the Moss Free Clinic

Auto Known Better sports car forgiveness program

By Rim Vining

chariots and landed in the squat position! A perfect 10! Actually, the Carolina Squat is now illegal in South Carolina with more states to follow I am sure.

Thank God the Supreme Court has seen fit to lay the groundwork for asphalt breaking legislation that might save us from the ravages of the debt burden associated with sports car ownership!

I'm pretty sure Saint Peter has that on his list of forgivable sins widely recognized throughout the ages along with too much gilding on the chariot or one too many false idols. What's the difference really?

We're officially in the dog days now. Too hot and too suffocating… you have to chew the air before you take a breath because it's August for Augustus's sake! And who was Augustus and how can that possibly tie into sports car ownership… "Prithee thee I inquired."

So it seems this month's namesake had a fondness for wheeled conveyances. (Yes, I have used "conveyances" twice this year) He also established the police and fire departments so it is not inconceivable that the Romans, along with all their many lasting developments, probably issued the first speeding ticket. You know the type. The hoodlums, the James Deans of the Agora.

Imagine the dust and noise as roving bands of wild eyed charioteers converged for spontaneous contests of speed and skill and did burn-outs in their stripped down chariots. Clots of Roman youths blocking intersections and interfering with the Senators in their togas with their Harrumph, Harrumph speeches. Those racing chariots were actually the first to incorporate the Carolina Squat as a design element and cult identifier.

Stick with me here. It's like gymnastics… we've gone from sports car debt to Roman emperors with gilded

For the uninitiated the 'squat' is achieved by raising only the front suspension of your truck with a lift kit making it almost impossible for the driver to see the road while braking becomes a joke and the headlights are aimed at the stratosphere. The first time you encounter one filling up your rear view mirror at 70 MPH it is a bit unnerving. Chariots, on the other hand, achieved this by design making it easier to dismount by merely stepping off the rear. (no seatbelts, pre-Ralphus Naderus) The lowered rear deck with the driver's weight on the wheels also made the chariot handle very well while chasing Christians at the Coliseum or when drifting through the 'esses' at Sebring or Le Mans.

So we should now be able to infer that the word sports car is actually derived from the Latin sports cart also known as money pitius with the first minting of coinage being established in 269 BC near the temple of Junos Moneta, i.e. money!

And speaking of money foolishly spent on conveyances (yes, that's the third time I used the word) I invite you to visit www whiskeychariot com. Here, starting at a mere $3,495.00, you can purchase a four wheeled electric conveyance (yeah #4) with hydraulic brakes and a reverse gear that is built around a cooler. Yes, they are marketed as "ride on coolers" available in various sizes and they even offer a BBQ grill trailer accessory. You actually sit on the cooler and no there is no seatbelt on a cooler. Not much padding either.

But leave it to me to immediately pick up on the inherent design flaw…. you have to stop and dismount to get another beer. They need to add a dispenser like a Coke machine.

So for all the foolish funds poured into sports cars and coolers it could be worse. We could have bought boats.

autoknownbetter@gmail.com

Rim Vining, humorist, friend and a devoted community volunteer

Sonja Petersen this month’s cover artist

Drawing and painting are my meditation. Recording memories in place and time is my motivation. I strive always for my artwork to honor the sentimental treasures that weave our uniquely personal histories. That is why most of my work reflects the tradition of realism. For it is not for me to reinterpret a subject, but to record it with great care to discover the beauty in the finest details. My work is a way to mark time and to revisit special moments.

My designs are inspired by the contrast of the man-made and the organic world. I'll draw architecture sitting among ivy; and paint clouds to soften towering church spires. I work to represent the glorious energy between the hard lines of our built world and the soft lines of Mother Earth.

~Sonja

grin, "Just like the legs on a table, I have three passions that hold me up and keep me going - my family, my work and my daily sessions in my home art studio."

'Sunset Delight' (this month’s cover) is an acrylic painting on canvas and was originally painted for Sonja's father, Chris, who is shown in the painting holding hands with his lovely wife Susan on the sands of Virginia Beach.

Find more of Sonja's work on her website at ArtworkBySonja com

About Sonja

Sonja Petersen is an artist born and raised in Virginia. She started exhibiting and commissioning pencil drawings in her teens while growing up in Culpeper. She was first recognized with a ribbon in her debut gallery exhibit in 1990 in Washington, VA. After studying painting and printmaking at Virginia Commonwealth Universit y and history at Mary Washington College, she launched her career in marketing and design with the City of Fredericksburg She continued to paint and draw throughout her career, and has been selling her art for more than 35 years. Her work has gained international attention in recent years with house portraits and an illustrated book across the pond and down under. When asked how she does it all, she says with a

“800 Princess Anne St”

“Fredericksburg Reflections”

Art in Burg

Art Galleries in August

fascinated those who have visited theGallery on a day when she was the docent, creating masterpieces of jewelry at the desk, one bead at a time. "I incorporate vintage, semi-precious stones and freshwater pearls in the cuffs and necklaces I create," she explains.

Liana's exhibit, will present a plethora of her colorful, uniquely patterned jewelry, in which some piece may "call out" to each visitor who peruses her bracelets, cuffs, and necklaces.

.

~-Collette Caprara

“The Epic Flight”

“Wildlife Photography” Paul Snyder

Opening Reception, First Fri Aug 4, 5-88:30p

Canal Quarters Arts, 1517 Princess Anne

Paul has dedicated himself to wildlife photography He finds the mix of technical know-how and the elusive nature of the subject matter especially intriguing

To achieve his goal of capturing the essence of each animal he photographs, he spends as much time as possble with his subjects, photographing them from different angles in various light conditions.

Jeannie Ellis

“Earth, Air, Fire & Water” LibertyTown Arts Workshop

916 Liberty St

Kathryn Murray “Some Joyful Noise”

Artist Alliance, Opening Aug 11, 6-99p

100 Taylor St , Suite 101, Colonial Beach

“Emerald Isle Beauty”, Megan Crockett

“Hand-SSewn Beaded Treasures”, Liana Pivirotto

Opening Reception First Fri, Aug 4, 5-99p

Brush Strokes Gallery

824 Caroline St

Inspired by her family's springtime venture to Ireland, Megan Crockett has produced a series of oil paintings that captures the lush landscapes and culture of this fascinating storied land.

Megan, who had won art awards as a girl and earned her art degree from the University of Mary Washington. "I applied my painting skills with much thought and detail in portraying the beautiful country life and the lush emerald green that Ireland is known for."

Collection of New Work by Joel Simpson

Opening Reception First Fri, Aug 4, 6-99p

Art First, 824 Caroline St

Each piece revolves around historical aircraft encounters in the sky "The impression I want visitors t to take with them is that my work is not just a painting of some aircraft -- but that it is

a painting which tells a story of the aircraft and the men and women who flew the aircraft. Simpson has grown up around aircraft. His father was a US Army Master Aviator and a veteran of World War II and the Korean War. So the painting subject matter is of special meaning to him -- and it shows in the detail exhibited in each painting

.

~Gary Close

"Entrophy”

Artful Dimensions

922 Caroline St

Opening Reception, First Friday Aug 4, 6-99pm

Pat Andrews describes himself as "having a pretty eclectic and haphazard approach to art." He says, "I never really seem to know what I will be making next. Will it be refined sculpture, a bell, or a brutalist inspired piece of art?" The only way to know is to stop by Artful Dimensions Gallery in August to see what is on display.

~ Sally Cooney Anderson

Kathryn will showcase new abstract paintings developed on tissue paper and mounted. This grouping entitled "Some Joyful Noise" The color, light and composition suggest landscapes and our innermost thoughts.

~ Rob Rudick

PONSHOP “POP-UUP MARKET”

First Friday, August 4, 5-88pm 712 Caroline Street Multifacet Gallery

Featuring innovative fine art, ceramics, and handmade items from regional and national artists

~ Gabe Pons

Artist on Site Saturdays

Liana Pivirotto' s

patience, fastidiousness, and well-honed skills have

Works by Pat Andrews

Kathyrn Murray @Artist Alliance

Megan Crockett “Ceann Straithe, Ireland” @BSG

Pat Andrews @Artful Dimensions

Paul Synder “Eagle” @Canal Quarters Arts

Joel Simpson “Chinook Ridge” @Art First

“Ode Watership Down”,Robyn Ryan “Southern Duo”,Beverley Coates “Sunrise Princess Anne”,Lynn Abbott

Liana Pivirotto @Artful Dimensions

Performing 11-nnoon: Hazel Run - an acoustic group that draws from Americana, folk, bluegrass, pop and rock. Their repertoire ranges from original songs to the mountain music of Appalachia, The Beatles, Gillian Welch and John Prine. Stuart Whitford Karen Richardson; Linda LaFave; and Stephen Hu

Reggie Carreker - A solo performer, Reggie writes original material and loves creating covers of well-known songs. His show uses guitars, keyboard and vocals to deliver a blend of smooth jazz, classic rhythm and blues, and contemporary gospel (right)

Rappahannock Choral Society - Led by conductor Bob Burnett, the RCS is an audition-only, regional chorus They specialize in secular songs from Broadway, the American Songbook and more.

Performing noon - 1 pm:

Moch Pryderi - Welsh for Pryderi's Pigs, Moch Pryderi The group performs a large repertoire of Celtic and old-time music. : Lauren Smith; Rik Rice, Mike Galu; Dave Caouette; Mary Triola Bailey

PorchFest! celebration of music august 19th

By annie harpe

Chromatic Static - is the solo endeavor of Brian Brown-HHill A veteran singer and songsmith Brian specializes in guitaroriented Indie folk and rock music.(top left)

Belles & Beaus - is a quartet of advanced ringers from the Stafford Handbell Society, performing on eight Malmark handbells.

She was a teacher. They minister through music. creating eclectic, thoughtful worship music

The Peacemakers - Jackie and Eddie, Ryan and Rudy Their original songs are beautiful, modern takes on folk music, pulling from the roots of bluegrass and folk.

Performing 2 - 3 pm: Razor Hill - beautiful vocals and energetic fiddling, playing a combination or original tunes and their takes on contemporary and classic tunes. The trio consists of Holly Breivik, Lauren Smith; and Jim Lawrence

Harry Wilson - a jazz musician Harry plays vibraphone, forging a recognizable sound that can be enjoyed by even a novice

Performing 4-5 5 pm:

The Acoustic Onion - specializes in the music of The Beatles. Tom Arbisi, Tim Garrett, Todd Conley . performing energetic, old-school rock & roll (below)

Brittany Frompovich - multiinstrumentalist musician, nominated for a WAMMY Award, Toby Fairchild This is a trio you won't want to miss!

Performing 1 - 2 pm: David Nichols - is a Fredericksburg musician who will be performing on solo guitar.

Alabaster Grace - He was a rocket scientist.

The BST Band - will be performing a vocal/drumming, acoustic set of world music. The band members are longtime friends Becky Steward,: Slam Steward , and Tanyah Dadze, Conguero, Alberto Limonta Perez, and Marta Fuentes.. The BST band is sure to get you moving and grooving!

Performing 3-4 4 pm: Peter Mealy & Laurie Rose Griffith -Both play guitar and sing, often including mandolin, harmonica and string bass in their musical arsenal. WAMMY Award winning duo, Laurie and Peter bring a vibrant mix of folk/Americana, Celtic, jazz, and rock tunes, as well as a large body of original music to their audiences.

Steve Bell - produces expressive playing to touch the heart and mind with clear, beautiful sounds and orchestration across the many voices and tone colors the guitar provides. His program draws from Spanish, Latin American, and Celtic music, as well as traditional American and worship music.

With events like PorchFest, RappArts continues to promote Fredericksburg and the Rappahannock region not only as a premier arts destination on the east coast - but also as a great place to live, with friendly neighborhoods and a vibrant community!

Come out Saturday, August 19th to Hanson Avenue between Fall Hill and Charles, the historic Normandy Village, and enjoy a relaxing day of fun and great music! Remember to bring your chair, and cash for admission and treats!

Healthy Relationships

help our children and teens thrive

By Nancy Kelly

As the summer draws to a close and families prepare for the new school year, Empowerhouse , a non-profit domestic violence organization, is gearing up to bring our Healthy Relationships Classroom Presentations to area students. In our community, 10,000 children witness family violence each year 1 in 3 adolescents in the U.S. is a victim of physical, sexual, emotional, or verbal abuse from a dating partner, a figure that far exceeds rates of other types of youth violence. Violent relationships in adolescence can put the victims at higher risk for substance abuse, eating disorders, risky sexual behavior, and further domestic violence.

At Empowerhouse, we know that one of the best ways to end the cycle of domestic violence and keep children and teens safe is to nurture healthy relationships through prevention education

For over 20 years, Empowerhouse has partnered with local schools to deliver our free ageappropriate, facilitated program to provide students with the critical tools to realize healthy relationships. In fiscal year 2022, our Youth Team delivered Healthy Relationships Classroom Presentations to over 3,400 area elementary, middle, and high school students These interactive presentations covered topics like bullying, boundaries, equality and respect, and better communication.

From January to April 2023 alone, we brought 148 presentations to children and teens in Fredericksburg City and Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania, and Stafford Counties. We focus on what

healthy relationships look like versus unhealthy relationships. The presentations include "hands on" activities, Q&A with our trained facilitators and post-presentation questionnaires.

Our presentations educate students about self-eesteem, better communication, and healthy boundaries, and provide crucial resources for students involved in abusive dating relationships or experiencing domestic violence at home These include leave-behind materials with Empowerhouse's 24-hour, confidential hotline number on them.

We continue to broaden our reach by offering vital resources to younger audiences. A 2021 Youth in Philanthropy grant from The Community Foundation enabled us to create a new dual-purpose booklet about healthy friendships that is both an engaging activity booklet for children 10 and under and a guide for parents, teachers, and their adult advocates. This educational piece utilizes Empowerhouse's Healthy Friendships foundational guidelines and activities and serves as an in-class or takeaway material that can be used by multiple facilitators and be enjoyed by children while they puzzle the activities and learn at the same time.

By laying the groundwork early, we are giving children important tools they will hone through facilitated activities with our Youth Team to help and support them as they develop friendships and relationships.

The tremendous feedback we've received from students, teachers, and parents illustrate the positive impact our

presentations make. A teacher shared that thanks to our program, a student realized that she was in a verbally, and mentally abusive relationship and was able to leave that relationship. In response to our postpresentation questionnaire, a high school student noted that she learned "not to let someone change who I am…" A male student said that he now has someone to talk to if he needs additional support.

We've also found that our classroom presentations often raise awareness about Empowerhouse's other domestic violence resources and services. Mothers and teachers of children who've been through our programs have reached out to us because they, or someone they know, are experiencing domestic violence. Our classroom presentations can be a life-

saving link to community members who are in immediate need of crisis intervention and assistance

Nancy B. Kelly is the Development Director for Empowerhouse.

If your school is interested in scheduling a Healthy Relationships Classroom Presentation, please e-mmail mendyp@empowerhouseva org for more information

If you, or someone you know is experiencing teen dating violence or domestic violence, please call our free, confidential 24-hhour Hotline at (540) 373-99373

In these days of fast paced travel, it is possible to take a time saving flight over the vast landscapes of our country. However, by doing so one misses so much of the essence of the beauty and culture below.

There is another, slower, more interesting way - the once fashionable road trip . In earlier times, families traveled across the country in station wagons piled with suitcases, coolers, kids, and dogs for the All- American adventure stopping at national parks like Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Great Smoky Mountains and so many others.

There were no interstate highways. Two-lane roads with names like Route 66 "The Mother Road", or The Lincoln Highway stretched across the plains, the desert, and numerous mountain ranges. Or ran beside oceans where the kids could happily watch the waves and hear the shorebirds through the open windows of the unairconditioned car.

The ubiquitous fast-food giants today were nonexistent. Coleman coolers were packed with carefully prepared homemade sandwiches, lemonade, and cookies. The family chose a grassy site beside the road, ideally under the shade of a large tree, spread blankets on the ground and enjoyed a picnic as a respite from time in the car.

Most either tent camped or pulled a travel trailer. The ones who could

Porch Light

Stories that shine a light on life the road traveled

By norma woodward

afford it stayed in places with names like Doc's Motor Court, Blue Swallow, Hilltop Inn, or Thunderbird where they could park and unload the car directly into the room.

Then the interstate highways were built to allow fast travels from east to west or north to south. They bypassed and eventually shut down many of the small towns. Local businesses closed as the new service stations, restaurants and motels stretched endlessly at the exits from the busy, new, fast, convenient interstates drawing travelers to a new type of travel.

of wheat, the cowboy in Texas who talks about the roundup or the new calf he delivered that morning, or the Chesapeake Bay waterman who will display the day's catch and advise about the best seafood restaurant in the area.

Sample the food prepared by a local cook, not chef, at diners scattered across the country. Question the early morning coffee group in the oldfashioned cafés to find the most interesting routes, sights, and adventures. They know them all and are delighted to share.

Stop in towns like Wild Horse, Pumpkin Creek, Bisbee, Iuka, and Jim Thorpe Discover the origin of their name. Find out what is important to those who live there. Drive the two lane, bumpy, gravel, dirt rural roads. Visit abandoned towns whose stories are told by what remains.

Stand quietly and listen.

Time constraints in our busy culture prevent many from experiencing the "real" America which still exists but is so often forgotten in our haste to get "from here to there."

August 7: The Wellbillies

August

August 21: Harry Wilson

August:

Thankfully, it is still possible to take the slower, scenic routes - the ones described by William Least Heat-MMoon in his book "Blue Highways " Traveling the back roads, you might meet the farmer in Kansas who tells you about this year's crop

There is an America that can only be experienced by going there and interacting with the locals, some of whom have never left the immediate area where they were born. They are the glue that keeps the struggling towns alive. They are the women who save the historic buildings scheduled for demolition or the men who work to teach skills to the next generation or the teenagers who mow the lawns for elderly neighbors. They are important! They are America.

America is a beautiful, amazing, fascinating country filled with a rich stewpot of people and cultures Everyone should road trip across our vast country at least once. Such a trip will promote understanding of what it is to be American. They will return with a pride of place about what we really are as a people and an appreciation of the magnificent landscape contained within our borders.

I hope each of you will be able to make that trip and return safely to your home, read this Front Porch article, and ponder its message. I wish you travel!

Photographer and back road traveler, Norma Woodward Photos from Norma’s Road Trip 2023

Bridge over a small inlet, Grand Lake, with a view of hidden cottage

Those of you who follow my journals are undoubtedly aware of my penchant for finding strange art installations An amazing one is just down the road from The Outpost Motel, Great Lakes

We have seen a few bison, but no moose in Yellowstone National Park However, just before we left the park, this female elk strolled unhurriedly across in front of us and slowly walked down the bank into the river.

14: B E Farrow & What Got Over

28: Elby Brass

C o m p a n i o n s a safe haven for dogs

by Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy

Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS), a safe haven for dogs that are unwanted, surrendered, neglected, mistreated and rescued from hoarding situations, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this month and throughout the year. Begun in 2013 by Founder Chrissy Blake, the nonprofit organization has placed about 6,500 rescue dogs in forever homes

"There are so many dogs that need homes and foster families, and we strive on a daily basis to place dogs with caring families," said Blake. "Old Dominion takes dogs from high-kill shelters and cares for them here until they're adopted. Our organization is entirely volunteerbased, and everyone works hard to nurture the dogs, bring them to events to meet potential adopters, make sure they get exercise with fun activities like our Sunday hikes for the public and keep the kennels and center clean and comfortable for them. Everybody puts their hearts into caring for the dogs, and it's been a work of love for the past decade."

“Hi, I'm Sitka, and available for adoption I'm Two years old and 33 pounds, I love people, cuddling and hiking and get along with other dogs I'm a perfect family dog just waiting for her forever home”

“Hello, I'm Erica! I am little My foster says I may take a bit of time to warm up but once I do, I love cuddling I enjoy chewing on toys and smelling everything! I am also learning how to walk on a leash but I'm not totally sold on the idea and sometimes I would prefer just laying in the grass I love greeting my humans by jumping up to give as many kisses as I can, and even though it is cute puppy behavior, I am learning not everyone wants to be jumped on! I am working on my house manners too All in all, my foster says I am a bit of a lower key pup who loves to have spurts of playtime followed by long naps in your lap”

asking the public to consider donating items to help care for the dogs. The following list of items would greatly help in the mission of providing well-matched, permanent homes for animals in need through rescue, rehabilitation and education:·Dog Beds, ·Blankets (no bigger than twin size), ·Bleach, ·Bones, ·Canned Pumpkin, ·Chicken Broth, ·Crates,·Elderberry Syrup, ·Flea and Tick Prevention, ·Food, ·Heating Pads, ·Hooves, Benebones, Kongs, ·Laundry Detergent, ·Leashes, ·Lysol Wipes, ·Martingale Collars (size small and extra small), ·Paper Towels, ·Peanut Butter, ·Printer Ink, ·Printer Paper, ·Puppy Feeding Tube Kits, ·Puppy Pads, ·Slow Feeder Bowls, ·Towels, ·Ultimates Overland Red Dog Food, ·Weruva Canned Dog Food, ·20-30 ml Syringes

The items can be shipped or dropped off at 3602 Lafayette Boulevard, Fredericksburg, Va., 22408.

The donation of time is invaluable, and there are many volunteer opportunities for everyone. After completing an orientation, individuals are able to come and go as they please.

Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy is a Public Relations Professional

ODHS is located at 3602 Lafayette Blvd Adoption events are Wednesdays from 57 p m , Fridays 6-8 8 p m , Saturdays 12-44p

To help ODHS celebrate its 10year anniversary, the organization is

28 August 2023

For more information about the dogs available for adoption and adoption applications, as well as upcoming events and Puppy Parties, volunteering, fostering and donating items, visit www olddominionhumanesociety org

Front porch fredericksburg

THE THE POETRY MAN POETRY MAN

By Frank Fratoe

A A Heritage Heritage

Let us be satisfied to value what we are, humans on a planet circling a magic-star, with heat and light giving what we need, radiance discharged to warm land and ocean, grouping many species vigorous everywhere. Suppose nobody dwelt within unmade cities, no houses built there or skyline downtown, no planes or copters soaring through air, just flora and fauna without our presence, still a grand miracle if no people came.

But humans are here to share this bounty, and it will continue if peace conquers war.

Frank Fratoe lives & writes in the city.he loves.

Astrology & You

Blue moon over fredericksburg

By Dianne Bachman

enjoy two full Moons in August, both supermoons

innovative, even the genius energies. For entrepreneurs, this is an excellent time to brainstorm for the future.

Summer camps wind down, weary sunburnt vacationers return home (praying for clear passage on Interstate 95), and clerks busy themselves down at Wal Mart, stocking shelves with pencils, paper, and necessary implements for the first days of school. Soon, surely summer will recede into the memories we made as we witness the passage of time. Before summer calls it quits, though, the night sky will give us some unique gifts We will

Supermoons appear larger and brighter because the Moon is closer to the Earth in its orbit. Remember the classic picture of Elliott when he and E.T. are cycling high above the pines? Well, it is not likely to be as spectacular as in Spielberg movies, but still a worthwhile Moon to watch out for. We typically experience supermoons three to four times per year The first will be on August first and it is often referred to as the Sturgeon Moon, named due to the abundance of sturgeon caught on the Great Lakes during this time of year. Other names for this moon are Green Corn Moon and the Wheat Moon.

The second supermoon in August is also a blue moon. A blue moon occurs when there are two full moons in one calendar month , or about every 33 months. The term comes from a 16th century expression, meaning something was either impossible or not highly likely. Superstitions related to the blue moon relate to the emergence of werewolves, madness, and increased fertility. The consensus is that there is no added astrological significance to the blue moon and instead we defer to the sign the Moon is stationed in. And, if werewolves bother you, pluck some artemisia from your garden and make an amulet, as it is said to repel any unwanted lycanthropes.

Here is the astrological weather for August:

August 1 Full Moon in Aquarius, exact at 2:32 pm. Reflect on progress toward any goals and celebrate where you have moved forward. Try something new, get involved in groups or social movements Revel in your quirkiness and dance under that Moon to the rhythm of your own heartbeat!

Aug 16 New Moon in Leo, exact 5:37 am. Project your creative visions onto the dark backdrop of the New Moon night sky. Look to where you might add more play to your life. Get silly. The Sun/Moon make an exact square to Uranus, calling in the unexpected, the

Aug 22 Mercury stations retrograde in Virgo, exact at 3:59 pm. The opposition to Neptune may make this retrograde feel a bit more introverted, like you want to lay around and binge on Netflix. Listen to yourself and if you feel like you need a rest, do it. Music would enhance any respite. In addition to the Neptune influence, Mercury will be making a strong trine to Uranus, bringing the unexpected or sudden change Keep an eye out on the bank accounts, as this type of retrograde can enhance the scammer vibe

August 23 Sun enters Virgo, exact at 5:01 am. Analytical energies shine through this month, grounded and laser clear. Remember that life is a balance, a yin and a yang. Too much analysis or too many critical thoughts can leave us stuck. On the other hand, too little can leave us vulnerable to mistakes. Remember to be kind to yourself, breathe, and tune in to your intuition. If grounded, it will never let you down.

Aug 27 Mars enters Libra, exact at 9:20 am. Opposing urges make this a suitable time to bring balance to our relationships, as Mars will fight to attain this. At the same time, it can be challenging to make decisions, as Mars wants to rush ahead, and Libra influences the desire for peace and steadiness.

Aug 28 Uranus stations retrograde in Taurus, exact at 10:39 pm, and will stay in retrograde motion until January 27, 2024. Outer planets like Uranus tend to impact the collective. If any of your personal planets are making aspects to Uranus, this retrograde may obviously impact you more directly. Look to see where Uranus is transiting through your birth chart.

Aug 30 Full Moon in Pisces, the Blue Moon, exact 9:35 pm. Relax, get a massage, write or read poetry, float in a gentle pool, moon bathe, reflect with beautiful music My favorite musical accompaniment for a Pisces Moon is Dean Evanson's Eagle River. Whatever you do, I hope you can focus on gentleness of spirit, welcoming Pisces Moon like a soothing balm to your world.

Dianne Bachman is a psychotherapist & astrologer practicing in FXBG. She can be reached at dbachmanlcsw@gmail.com

Artwork “Man in the Moon” circa 1902

Fredericksburg Sketches

A visual Celebration of our community

By Paula Raudenbush

I'm a bit of a wuss when it comes to sketching in the heat so the past few weeks have been challenging. I have managed to get out early in my garden though. This sketch is part of my back yard. I have a lot of shade so not a lot of color other than green but there is a whole lot of texture. So I attempted to capture that with a plain old black ball-point pen. Sometimes a black and white drawing is perfect for the scene and you really don't need a lot of expensive tools to do it with.

Here's hoping you'll pick up some paper and a pen and try it yourself. It's very relaxing and you never have to show it to a soul if you don't want to.

Cheers and have a great August.

540.845.7622

Front porch fredericksburg

BACK GARDEN

Paula Raudenbush is an admin for the Fredericksburg Chapter of the Urban Sketchers and maintains a studio in Libertytown Arts Workshop.

AHalfYearToRemember three people three quick stories

Anne a pioneer. "How she plays, how she interacts." He says, "Grace Anne is a shining example of bringing your best to the gamewhatever that game is-and that opens doors to new venues and new opportunities."

In her life away from golf, Grace Anne has worked in food services at UMW for 27 years. On campus they call her "Amazing Grace".

By ted schubel

He says night in night out you can feel the energy in the stadium because of his entire staff. "Our sound guy spends so much time cutting up clips and trying to engage with everyone who is sitting down"

It's become a tradition of ours to look back at the previous year. We'll do that again at the end of 2023. But just like kids like to have a half-birthday party, we highlight three people who've already had a year to remember in the first half of the year.

Grace Anne Braxton (above) continues to dominate Special Olympics golf on the WORLD stage. Grace Anne is a regular at Fredericksburg County Club But...In July she won the silver medal in Berlin at the World games. Competing against men and women. Competing against men, Grace Anne says, "I'm not as strong and can't hit it as long. But I can play against them." She does that my practicing constantly at FCC and other courses on the east coast.

She's participated in five Word Games-previously winning the silver in Abu Dhabi, the gold in Greece and the gold in China.

Special Olympics Virginia President David Thomason calls Grace

Helping tell all of history is Dr Gaila Sims She's been here for a year as the Curator of African American History and Special Projects at the Fredericksburg Area Museum. Sims put together the powerful display for the slave auction block at the FAM that opened late last year. She's working on what panels and stories will be told where the block used to reside at the corner of William and Charles Streets.

Dr. Sims was excited to see the John Washington marker at Foode on Princess Anne Street that tells the story of a freed slave. Sims says, "It's powerful. That restaurant is Black owned but there is also now a marker whenever anyone walks down that street they can think of John M. Washington." (Honorable mention to Chris Williams and Victoria Matthews and their stellar work on the Civil Rights Trail too as half-birthday accomplishments)

The Fredericksburg Nationals continue to be one of the leaders in all of Minor League Baseball. Their new General Manager is Robbie Perry (right)

While Robbie has the GM title, he's credits everyone working around him.

His goal is make your time at the stadium memorable. "I never played baseball in my life," he says. "I grew up overseas. Yet, Robbie Perry says, "If you like baseball there's no better park to watch baseball with our sight lines and young talent. If you're not a fan, come to the game. I promise you'll have a great time. You'll be entertained."

Three people. Three quick stories. What stories will develop during the rest of 2023?

Ted Schubel is the News Director and Host of Town Talk on am1230.