5Michelle Caldwell Thompson distinguished service
22Deaneal Kennedy & Kelly Griffis companions to the dying
25Elena McLaughlin creates elegance
Porch talk
4 on the porch...life in fredericksburg messages
7everything green: the dark day are gone
8In the Garden: Hugh mercer garden
9 growing & crawling: eat your fears
10 A season to reflect 12tidbits...small bites of local news
13 season’s bounty: snow treats 14winter cocktails
15vino: christmas cookies & wine pairings
16-17Calendar of Events
18history’s stories: christmas 2024
19our heritage: bray school for enslaved children
20mental health: handling holidays
21 Emancipated patients: holiday health hazards
23DId you know? christmas facts
24art in the burg ....galleries in december
26auto known better: the traveling trio
27new led lights in mayfield
28companions: family loves rescue dogs
29astrology & you poetryman: into the light
30fredericksburg sketches
31 holiday plants: history & tradition
3 Charlie & the chocolate factory...shs
6 It’s that time of year...celebrates holidays in fred 11 nutcracker ballet.....a beloved holiday classic
Cover: “Tannenbaum Express” By David C. Kennedy
Charlie & The Chocolate Factory
SHS theatre production will MESMERIZE Audiences
The award-winning Stafford Players will bring Charlie, Willy Wonka, the Oompa Loompas and more to life for "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" at Stafford High School.. Students will take the audience along on an adventure, where the stage is turned into the magical
chocolate factory.
A play geared for children and families, "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" is the story of young Charlie Bucket, who wins a ticket to the Wonka Chocolate Factory. It's the chance to feast on the mouthwatering sweets that Charlie has always yearned for, but his poverty-stricken family could never afford. Other ticket winners-Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregarde, Mike Teavee and Augustus Gloop-are along for the journey. It's a world of amazement, innovation, heaps of sugary treats and the whimsical Oompa Loompas.
The audience will find out about the wonderful treats at the chocolate
By Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy
factory, including hair-changing taffy, a fudge room, a marshmallow room and everlasting gobstoppers that are like jaw breakers and last weeks and weeks. There's chewing gum that fills the appetite like a full meal and comes in many different flavors, such as an entire Thanksgiving feast. A tasty project they're working on at the factory will be a favorite for everyonea chocolate bar that comes out of the television during a commercial break.
The play shows how the ticket winners become greedy and selfish, and it's evident that everything isn't as wonderful as it seems. The only child who doesn't give in to the sweet temptations of Wonka's magical world is Charlie, who remains humble and loyal. Wonka notices these traits in Charlie and gives him a reward that's more than he's ever dreamed of.
"The students have worked hard to make sure their characters are fun to watch, and they bring the audience along on this adventure to Willy Wonka's
LetterstoSanta
For three weeks, a wonder occurs! A mysterious mailbox, bearing the image of Santa Claus himself, appears in downtown Fredericksburg. Legend has it that a child who deposits a letter into the mailbox will receive an answer directly from the North Pole.
Santa’s mailbox will appear for the holiday magic through December 20th, located at the corner of George Street & Caroline Street, in front of the Fort-To-Go Store.
The Santa Mailbox is overseen by the Fredericksburg Rappahannock Rotary Club.
Please Remember to Include Your Return Address So Santa Can Write You Back!
Chocolate Factory," said Associate Director of Theater and The Stafford Players Natalie Mullanaphy "From the moment they were cast, the actors have dedicated every day after school and all day on Saturdays to perfecting their roles. The crew has worked tirelessly to have everything in order for the performances. It's been a labor of love for everyone, and we invite the public to enjoy this production performed by the talented students in The Stafford Players."
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" Stafford High School, 63 Indians Lane, Fredericksburg, Va , 22405
Performances are 7 p m Thursday, December 12, Friday, December 13, Saturday, December 14 2 p m matinee Saturday, December 14 Tickets available at the door or online
Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy is a Public Relations Professional
Anne Hicks Guest Porch Editorial
Contributing Writers & Artists
Rita Allan
Sally Cooney Anderson
Dianne BachmanSonja Cantu
Collette CapraraGary Close
Mike DiSalvoJanet Douberly
Mary Beth GeilJeannie Ellis
Frank FratoeRalph “Tuffy” Hicks
Anne HicksKathleen Harrigan
Malanna Marie Henderson
Karen KallayNancy Kelly
David C. Kennedy
Sarah Mahoney
Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy
Ray MikulaVanessa Moncure
Pete MorelewiczPatrick Neustatter
Amy PeregoyGabe Pons
Paula RaudenbushRob Rudick
Mandy SmithBrenda Sostak
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.
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Web Site: www.frontporchfredericksburg.com
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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 2024 Front Porch Fredericksburg Magazine All rights reserved.
ON THE PORCH
Season's gift of memories
By Anne Hicks
I've been thinking about ways to embrace the holiday season and found memories in so many places. Now in looking more about what's been that what will be, appreciating life in a slower motion than in past years is an awakening and a key into the present awareness and living in the moment with all senses. Paradoxically this year seems to be ending near the speed of light. Yet memories glowing embers come back to live and feel like gifts so easy to relay and write. Exploring the holidays in thought is a rich source that threads us together. More being together in any way is celebration.
Giving ourselves the grace of flexibility through change helps us in learning to be present in each other's presence. We have adapted to the responses from the changing events socially and interpersonally and more. We've become necessarily flexible and good at learning how to celebrate at home if we are living in different parts of the country or are not able to travel even locally. To accept what we have lost because of the outcomes of many events, and to move out of the place where we were and learn to be still together brings a greater sense of understanding who and what we do as a community.
Thankfully, here growth and change occur often and much to keeps us together. We live in the present and revisit the past in our own ways.
This year tidbits changed: A new Visitor Center opened November. The New Publisher's Hotel opened in September replacing the Old Free Lance Star Publishing Building. First Night that started in 1980 is gone, yet Frist Friday is still a thing now for 30 years.
Farewell from Bill Freehling , former Economic Development and Tourism Director brought in Josh Summits Mike Craig became the New Director of Community Planning and Building after Chuck Johnston retired. The Jewel Box closed after first opening in 1940. The Kenmore Inn restaurant is now The Ironclad Inn. A tribute to the life of Mayor Davies, whose contributions to the city and surrounding communities will never be forgotten was written heartfully by my husband who worked with him for many years. Changes are gifts we remember and can't give away.
The contributors to Front Porch Magazine serve freely giving their heartful gifts of everything they share each month.
Thanks Virginia Grogan, writers, special contributors, who write about, Health, Gardens, Food, Wining and Dining, Community, History, Heritage, Arts, Entertainment, Education, Families, Children, Safety, Hiking, and other activities, Veterans, Heritage, Local Theater, Astrology, Cars, Animals, Yoga, Advertisers, Businesses, Churches, Wholistic healers, and more.
Now having understanding how we come together in the community with mindfulness, especially during the holidays being in tune with how life seamlessly continues to unfold with the best intentions of giving ourselves to each other throughout the year is a mindset in however we can do that. It's simple since there are so many ways to connect. The years are influenced not just with spectacular motion in which they fly into the next but by the way we grow together into our families and communities' lives. And we learn so much more about working together with heart and soul and learning through all fields so open to us and knowledge that comes together to embrace our humanity with the universal source of life. We are intelligent and enhanced with the latest AI, but we are not AI. We are real and are challenged or called or are willing to give our energy to this community and to others in need. We embrace the beauty of the city we live in and the hope it will bring to all who find the vibrant but peaceful way we live. It is
because we live this way, we are caring in our town and our world to make to better for all of us. That is the way we will continue to hope we follow through together.
My special thanks to Lynda Allen's novel, "Flashes of Insight", Dr Vernon at Virginia Wellness and Julia at Changing Paces Physical Therapy
May you offer special thanks and may yours be cherished forever and beyond the speed of light. Hope you find more memories and opportunities and collect these stories from the Front Porch every month while reading it cover to cover.
Anne Hicks lives with her loving husband, Tuffy. We cherish all of you, wishing the best always. Happy New Year!
M i c h e l l e C a l d w e l l T
metzger award recipient
Leader and mentor Michelle Caldwell Thompson received the 2024 Patricia Lacey Metzger Award for distinguished achievement from the Women's Leadership Colloquium at the University of Mary Washington. Thompson is CEO of the firm CTI Real Estate as well as a dedicated community leader and advocate for women in business, education, mentorship and entrepreneurship.
Metzger Award goes annually to someone who upholds high standards and achieves personal and professional success Traditionally, the honor is bestowed during the UMW Women's Leadership Colloquium. But with both events celebrating milestones - the Colloquium turned 30 on Thursday, Nov. 7 - a quartercentury worth of Metzger winners deserved a day of their own.
"She is making an impact in all that she does," Fredericksburg area professional trainer and coach Beth Sinkler, one of Thompson's two nominators, said of her community involvement.
Thompson's company, CTI Real Estate, is a pillar in the Fredericksburg regional landscape with more than 20 years in business and approximately 70 dedicated agents, many of whom share a passion for service to the community. She also serves on the boards of several organizations, including the Rappahannock Educational Foundation, University of Mary Washington Honors Program, Mary Washington Healthcare Foundation, and the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce, where she is the incoming board chair.
The Metzger Award is named for the late Mary Washington professor, Patricia Lacey Metzger, who helped establish the Women's Leadership Colloquium in 1994. Colloquium founder
By Sarah Mahoney
The event drew several other former award recipients (photo bottom ), including Worrell Management Group CEO Linda Worrell and Herlong Associates Owner Dana Herlong, as well as Fredericksburg City Schools Superintendent Marci Cattlet and Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Susan Spears . Rappahannock United Way President Janel Donohue, UMW Executive Director of Events
and former award winner Meta Braymerwho retired as vice president for economic development and regional engagement after a 23-year career at Mary Washington - provided a history of the event and an impactful tribute to Metzger and her commitment to women in leadership.
brilliant woman and role model with a legacy of leadership.
Susan Worrell , Executive Life Coach Susan Coleman and Topside Federal Credit Union Director of Marketing and Outreach
Stephanie Lyles also attended. See the Metzger Award at UMW's Women's Leadership Colloquium webpage for a full list of past recipients.
UMW Associate Provost for Career and Workforce Kimberly Young, who co-chairs the Colloquium with Executive Director of Human Resources Beth Williams, said Thompson was a
"Above all of her professional and community accomplishments, Michelle is a mentor to many, a mother, wife, daughter and cherished friend," Sinkler said. "She has made her presence in this community known and our region is better for her being here."
The mission of the Colloquium is to create conversations and connections for a lifetime of learning and leadership. The Colloquium prepares and supports women in leadership positions, attracting managers, administrators, educators, business owners and leaders of public, private and nonprofit organizations. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter.
Sarah Mahoney is the Assistant Director of Media & Public Relations, UMW
Photo by Suzanne Carr Rossi
Metzger Award winner Michelle Caldwell Thompson (center) with Meta Braymer (left) and Kimberly Young (right), UMW Associate Provost of Career and Workforce, who co-cchairs the colloquium
It s That Time of Year
burg folks celebrate the holidays
By collette caprara
When it comes to freely sharing their talent, skills, and heart the folks in the Burg are second to none. A case in point is the performance/rehearsal offered freely to all in Market Square to all by acoustic guitarist and vocalist Bruce Callander who was preparing for his role in an upcoming free (of course) Christmas Concert
The quintessence and launch of Fredericksburg's holiday celebration is its beloved Christmas Parade, which will begin at 5:30 pm on Saturday December 7. It
seems that half the city's population marches/walks/float-rides in the parade along Caroline and Charlotte streets while the other half cheers them on-and also that, at one point, the two contingents switch their roles!
The historic venues that the Burg is blessed with provide unique experiences for families and friends in displays dubbed "Holidays: Past, Present, and Future "
George Washington's Ferry Farm (our first president's boyhood home) will whisk visitors to an enchanting realm that will spark imaginations and dreams through its 38th Annual Gingerbread House Exhibit. Meanwhile, the carefully detailed creations featured the 10th annual Wee Christmas Dollhouses & Miniatures Show at Historic Kenmore will elicit memories of childhood experiences of many parents and grandparents through its fascinating replicas - including one of Kenmore itself.
In addition, families and friends will have an opportunity to select a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable gift for that special someone among plethora of hand-crafted items at the Holiday Edition of Second Saturdays at Hanover Place Truly, Fredericksburg is a treasure chest of unique offerings and memorable experiences for giftgivers and recipients alike as well as all who take the opportunity to join in its delightful holiday offerings.
Kick off the holiday season in style with the Fredericksburg Symphony Orchestra! Bring the entire family to Lifepoint Auditorium to experience an unforgettable selection of classic carols and new arrangements. "A Season of Giving" will warm your heart, and you can expect a visit from Santa. Featured numbers include A Charlie Brown Christmas, Sleigh Ride, and White
Christmas, along with an exciting version of Beethoven's Ode to Joy.
Collette Caprara is a writer, artist & lover of all things Fredericksburg
Good news! The Winter Solstice is approaching! On Saturday, December 21st, at 4:19am, we will be experiencing the shortest day and longest night of the year What's so good about that, you ask? Excellent question!
Firstly, the arrival of winter is an important time in the yearly cycle for the plants, insects, animals, AND us humans. Before 9-5 jobs, and circling back, and "per my previous email" came along, we humans got to participate in this very important winding down season Our worlds got smaller and more snug. We could focus on rest, tiny tasks that could be done by firelight, and eating lots of soup. (Okay, I'm no historian but this is how I imagine it, anyway.) It is much the same with our insects and wildlife (except sans the soup). It is the season for them to hibernate and use a lot less energy Resting and waiting for the thaw to revive them so they can begin the spring newly invigorated. The deep freezes (that we used to get) helped kill off most of the
insects until there were nothing but queens living in the leaf litter, waiting to repopulate the world once the heat and light returned. This is important for insect control!!
It is also important for our plants A period of dormancy, sending sugars and nutrients to their roots to hold on to until they are needed to create the first leaves of spring! Without this frigid season, our native plants would be far more tropical and vastly different to the ones we know and love now.
By janet douberly
Sadly, we humans decided to create a system that doesn't allow most of us to take this opportunity to turn in and rest up. We still have to go to work in the morning and leave after sunset and a majority of us find this to be super lame. But that doesn't mean the solstice isn't good news! For with the shortest day of the year coming and going, it means the dark days are gone and the bright days are here! Each day we will get a few more moments of sunlight to savor.
While it is almost impossible to comprehend spending time outdoors during this time, that is exactly what is needed to banish our winter doldrums and keep us sane and able to do the tasks required of us. When you're done trying to hold back this feeling for so long, even the simple act of going outside on your break to soak up a couple of sun rays can increase mental health and boost your mood! While it is so tempting to do, spending all of our time inside can lead to some serious depression, anxiety, and stress which, in turn, affects our physical health as well. Ideally, when we get this feeling and want maximum healing, spending at least 3 hours a week outside will give the best chance of fighting off the winter blues
If you feel like I feel, c'mon, let's get some sun. We have monthly nature walks all winter long! No wind, no rain, or winter's cold can stop us from getting outside and soaking up those precious rays! Learn more at www.downtowngreens.org
Janet Douberly is a queen living in the leaf litter at Downtown Greens.
In the Garden restore & enjoy
by tina will
When I was young, a magical time for our family was when my mom and dad would take us five kids to New York City to see the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center We would go skating nearby, and visit the incredible FAO Schwarz Toy Store I remember enjoying my first warm roast chestnut sold by vendors with its wonderful aroma, taste, and texture.
I wasn't aware of Chestnut blight at that point in my life, and am sad that the American Chestnut tree has declined to the point where it is referred to as 'functionally extinct' Legend has it that the mighty American Chestnut was so plentiful that squirrels could travel through the treetops from Georgia to Maine feeding themselves easily on the nuts! Now, they survive to shrub size, but can't grow tall enough to bear fruit. The chestnuts available to us are from other varieties.
It turns out that the Chinese Chestnut is resistant to the blight and
therefore is a good replacement, and also a good source for a solution to the blight problem. Since the American Chestnut (Castanea dentata) and Chinese Chestnut (Castanea mollissima) species are related, they can be cross-bred. The American Chestnut Foundation (TACF) began that effort in 1983, and has succeeded in developing an American Chestnut that is showing resistance to both the Chestnut Blight (Cryphonectria parasitica) and the soil-born disease Phytpophera Root Rot (Phytophthora cinnamomi) which causes root rot and is also contributing to C. dentata's demise.
their efforts. TACF has collaborated with Virginia Tech to do DNA sequencing of these trees from Maine to Mississippi. I encourage you to read about their work: https://tacf.org/sciencestrategies/restoration/.
Hugh Mercer's Apothecary Garden
Another restoration is ongoing at our local apothecary garden here in Fredericksburg. A man of many skills and accomplishments, Hugh Mercer well deserves the recognition he's honored with in our town. In 2023, Master Gardeners were recruited by the Washington Heritage Museums Organization to begin to redo and clean
the 18th century. In the last 18 months they have transformed it into a pleasant garden featuring 52 species. You will find Fleur De Lys, Wormwood, Feverfew, Elecampane, Penny Royal, and even Tobacco in this garden. Unusual remedies and treatments were used centuries ago. It is a public garden and it's free to enter by the side gate at any time. Take a walk there soon and educate yourself on the plants 18th century colonists used to treat their maladies!
Enjoy some roasted chestnuts this season, visit Hugh's garden, and have a Merry Christmas!
Tina Will is a Master Gardener and lives in Stafford County. She can be reached at brianandtina.will@gmail.com
It's complicated and timeconsuming work, and it's taking a long time, but they are having some success, and technological advances have helped
up this garden that had become overgrown. Ian Bugay, the head gardener, along with Master Gardener Mike DiSalvo and a regular crew of Master Gardeners have succeeded in clearing out the overgrowth, and re-establishing the order needed for the intended purpose of accurately showcasing medicinal plants of
Photos of Hugh Mercer Garden by MG Mike DiSalvo
With their loud, annoying chirps and their sometimes aggressive habits of jumping directly at you, crickets are understandably an extremely unpopular insect. Even this author, who loves to love the unloved, has struggled with finding a way to appreciate crickets. That is, of course, until I discovered that one stick of butter, one egg, some sugar, and a heaping cup of powdered crickets make a nutritious and delicious reason to love them!
That's right, crickets are playing an important part in bringing alternative, eco-friendly protein to the diets of us westerners.
Many cultures still very smartly include a variety of insects in their diets. And though the thought of crunching down on some exoskeletons can cause a visceral reaction in many of us, it is actually an excellent way to reduce carbon emissions, reduce animal waste and suffering, and increase our protein, vitamin, and mineral consumption!
Growing & Crawling eat your fears
By janet douberly
If we compare 100 grams of beef, chicken, and cricket powder we see that the beef has 26g of protein, chicken 27g, and cricket powder over 58g!! On top of that, cricket powder contains 10 times the amount of B-12 than salmon and twice as much iron as spinach! Some research also indicates that our bodies absorb minerals, such as iron, more easily when delivered via crickets, as opposed to beef.
So next time you find one of these chirping chumps in the house, go ahead and preheat the oven to 350!
Janet Douberly will happily share her Chocolate Chirp Cookie recipe with you at Downtown Greens.
A Season For Reflection empowerhouse wish list
By Kathleen harrigan
'Tis the season of gratitude and reflection! The days are darker and I make more time for quiet introspection.
Each year, during the holiday season, I spend time thinking, questioning, and planning.
Thinking of the patterns of the past year, my actions, what I am grateful for, my sorrows, and where I found joy.
Questioning the things I want (or not) in the new year, identifying what I want to achieve and personal goals.
Planning how to go forward in a world that seems more chaotic and violent at every level, from personal interactions to the climate, and all points in between.
What about you? Will you spend time reflecting? Planning for the new year?
For me, 2024 was grief-filled, requiring a lot of reflection about lost loved ones, hopes, and opportunities. The flip side of loss can be an opportunity to appreciate what I love and value.
So for 2025, I WILL:
Choose the strength of kindness in the face of violence and bullies.
Choose curiosity and collaboration to the challenges of each day.
Be respectful to the people around me, but value myself and my voice.
Help meet the needs around me and be a voice for those at risk.
One way I will do this is through my continued volunteer and financial support of our Empowerhouse community.
I WANT:
Our Empowerhouse staff to reach more students in area middle and high schools with our Healthy Relationships program.
Empowerhouse to expand the Be You program for young men to learn new ways of communicating, solving problems, and responding to the violent words and behavior around them.
Our community to understand that domestic violence as a pattern of behavior adversely affecting (mostly) women, and also a community safety issue.
All members of my community to be safe, have food and housing.
What about you? Will you join me in actively promoting kindness and respect across our community? Will you also be curious about ways to meet the needs of our neighbors? Will you join your voice with mine to help be a voice for those at risk? Can you help with your time or by making a donation to Empowerhouse today (www.empowerhouseva.org)?
For nearly 50 years, Empowerhouse has supported domestic violence survivors across our community. We've helped victims plan for safety, housed victims and their children, and worked through the trauma associated with the risks of increasing lethality associated with domestic violence through the use of guns or strangulation.
Each year, I'm amazed by the stories survivors share of their strength and resilience, their hope for safety (you can read survivor stories on our website). Each year, the staff inspire me with their own strength and resilience with each hotline call they answer, each response to a call from a sheriff's office, every time a victim and her children realize they are not alone at a staff-led support group, or when staff make up beds for them at the shelter or help find housing.
Empowerhouse's work goes on 24/7. Last year, Empowerhouse helped 3,400 survivors; 284 of them were children (plus an additional 4,600 children with our educational programming). Yet, as hard as we work, the need doesn't stop. The hotline continues to ring and victims continue to seek help.
We know we can't stop all of the incidents of domestic violence, but we can help victims of domestic violence find hope. We can wake each day and try again to make the world a better place. 2025 will be a year that will challenge our community, and today is the time to face that challenge with resolute kindness, respect for others, and tolerance. We must rise as one so others will not fall.
You can learn more about Empowerhouse's free programs and services on our website www.empowerhouseva.org. If you, or someone you know, needs free, confidential assistance and information, please call our 24-hour Hotline at 540373-9373. Hablamos Espanol. Remember, you are not alone.
Kathleen Harrigan is a volunteer on the Empowerhouse Board of Directors and supports many of its fundraising and community events, like the upcoming Empty Bowl on Sunday, February 2
In The Nutcracker Ballet, a young girl named Clara receives a magical nutcracker doll as a Christmas present from her eccentric uncle Drosselmeyer; on Christmas Eve, the nutcracker comes to life, transforming into a prince and battling a Mouse King, with Clara's help, before taking her to the "Land of Sweets" where they are entertained by the Sugar Plum Fairy and her dancing subjects.
The Sunken Well Tavern
A Beloved Holiday Classic Experience the Magic of the Nutcrackers
Experience the Magic at two local ballet companies’ performances this month
The Nutcracker Fredericksburg Ballet Centre
Join us for a dazzling, full-length Nutcracker performance - a local holiday tradition for decades! Immerse yourself in a world of wonder with breathtaking sets, enchanting costumes, and unforgettable dances. From the mischievous mice to the Sugar Plum Fairy, every moment is pure holiday enchantment! Bring the whole family for a magical evening that will spark joy and create cherished memories
Don't miss this magical holiday tradition! .
Fredericksburg Ballet Centre 1634 Lafayette Blvd
Performance Dates and Times
Saturday, December 21st at 2:00 PM
Saturday, December 21st at 6:30 PM
Sunday, December 22nd at 2:00 PM
Location: James Monroe High School
Tickets go on sale December 2nd at FBC, located at 1634 Lafayette Blvd
General Admission: $20 (Kids 2 and under free)
At the Door: $25 (Cash only)
Doors open 30 minutes before showtime
Will Call: Purchase tickets over the phone and pick them up at Will Call on the day of the show
The Nutcracker Ballet Academy of Ballet & Frderickburg City Ballet Company’s Experience a full-length classical ballet that will enchant you and your family this holiday season.
The Nutcracker is a beautiful story of magic, adventure and wonder. This family-friendly performance is a great way to introduce young children to ballet.
Saturday, December 7, at 6 PM
Sunday, December 8, at 2 PM
James Monroe High School Auditorium
Ticket are available now at the studio or at the Fredericksburg Visitor Center's new location: 601 Caroline St, 1st Floor
Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door
Academy of Ballet 824 Caroline Street (access through the alley entrance off George Street) in Historic Downtown
photo courtesy Fxbg Ballet Centre
photo courtesy Academy of Ballet
Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm Fri & Sat 11am-10pm Sun 11am - 9pm Bar open until 2am everyday
River Rock Outfitter Announces Expansion in FXBG River Rock will be opening two new stores in Fredericksburg in 2025
The first location, opening in January 2025 at 708 Caroline Street, will continue River Rock Outfitter's commitment to downtown, offering an outdoor lifestyle boutique that features a curated selection of clothing, accessories, and footwear for nature lovers and explorers.
In April 2025, River Rock Outfitter, owners April & Keith Peterson, will unveil a second location (address to be announced), dedicated to adventure, education, and expanded services. This new outdoor adventure center will offer an enhanced selection of outdoor gear, including kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and a dedicated space for clinics and outdoor-themed events, making it a hub for hands-on learning and adventure in the Fredericksburg area.
FXBG EDA Makes Small-BBusiness Loan to DuoGlo Esthetics
The latest recipient of an InvestFXBG loan is DuoGlo Esthetics, a small woman-owned business in Westwood Village shopping center. loan to provide capital for the start-up business and to assist in hiring an employee for reception and general office management.
DuoGlo Esthetics is owned and operated by Kaelie Haynie and Mryaim (Mimi) Abedeljalil In founding DuoGlo, Kaelie and Mimi recognized an opportunity in the local industry to offer both full care esthetic services as well as a school for esthetics certification.
TidBits
small bites of local News
Currently, the spa offers consultations and spa treatments to include facials, dermaplaning, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, waxing, lash lifts, and tints
Monumental Vision Campaign
The Monumental Vision Campaign for the preservation and restoration of the Mary Washington Monument site is currently underway. With a fundraising goal of $1.6 million, the Campaign will provide for expanded educational opportunities and physical site improvements that are accessible and safe for visitors.
Washington Heritage Museums (WHM) received the site, which features the Mary Washington Monument, Meditation Rock, Gordon Cemetery, Eskridge Oak, and Caretaker's Lodge by deed of gift from the City of Fredericksburg in January 2023.
Gifts received by Dec. 31, 2024, will be matched up to a combined total of $75,000. Kelly Johnson, Rennie McDaniel, and Gail Braxton are generously offering this "Match for Mary".
Pictured: Rennie McDaniel and Kelly Johnson, co-chairs (Photo courtesy of Kathy Wirtala)
UMW Public Liberal Arts Ranks Top 10 by U S News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report has released its 2025 "Best Colleges" with the University of Mary Washington tying for No. 9 on the list and tying for No. 132 in national liberal arts.
U.S. News ranked nearly 1,500 U.S. four-year bachelor's degree-granting institutions, grouped within 10 distinct overall rankings where colleges and universities were compared with schools that shared their academic mission.
By Amy Peregoy
FXBG Abound With Holiday Activities Downtown is the place to be this holiday season!
Santa Mailbox thru Dec 20
Christmas Parade, Dec 7
Window Wonderland, thru Dec 30
FAMFaire: Dec 14
Candlelight Tour Dec 14
Sounds of the Season Concert Dec 14
Pictures with Santa, Dec 15 Go to fxbg com/holiday-eevents
For more events & FPF calendar pg 16-17
Great Lives UMW Lecture Series to Start its 22nd Season On Tuesday January 21, 2025, the University of Mary Washington will begin the 22nd season of its lecture series, Great Lives: Biographical Approaches to History and Culture. This year's program schedule will consist of 15 lectures running from January 21st though March 20th. These lectures are free and open to the public.
This year's schedule starts off strong with Women of the CIA The Secret Story of Women at the CIA. Some other highlights of the 2025 season include lectures on Rod Serling, Barbara Walters, Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull, Phillis Wheatley, and Jay Gatsby.
A complete listing will be published in FPF Jan issue.
A
Amy Peregoy is FXBG Economic Development Manager
Another holiday season! It seems trite to say, but wasn’t last Christmas just a few weeks ago? I still have the window candles stashed in a kitchen drawer, an elementary-school painted sleigh napkin holder has held sway on the sideboard all year and a stash of holiday antique cake and cookie tins stare balefully down on me from the very top shelf of a very tall cabinet - it’s that time of year again! Fill us up! If there’s anyone in the family to blame for extra avoirdupois buildup over the holidays, it has to be me. Those tins aren’t waiting to be filled with celery sticks and fizzy flavored water - no, no. Carbohydrates galore, butter cookies, brittle, fruitcake and tatties - chocolate fudge and macaroons and mincemeat, oh my. Summer baking, sure, a pan of brownies or some offhand chocolate chip cookies. But for the holidays! December just wouldn’t be December without my grandmother’s applesauce raisin black walnut cake, her date and walnut cake with
a small glass of sherry in the tin to provide “atmosphere”, cut-out sugar cookie Santas and sleighs, the dipped teaspoons of dark, dark nutty fudge - well, I believe there might have been a cicerone further up in the family tree guiding me through each year of baking traditions - I hope you will celebrate the holidays with some snow sweets of your own!
MORAVIAN COOKIES
My parents retired to North Carolina near a large Moravian community and my mother was given this traditional Christmas spice cookie recipethese are traditionally known as the “World’s Thinnest Cookie” and should be rolled out to 1/8” or less Sift together 4 ½ cups flour, ¼ tsp. baking soda, ½ tsp. salt, ground cloves and ginger, 1 tsp. cinnamon. Stir in one cup light brown sugar. With a pastry blender (or food processor) cut in one cup butter, then add 1 ½ cups molasses. Mix thoroughly, wrap and chill
four hours or overnight, or until firm enough to roll out. Use a small amount of dough and roll out 1/8" cut into rounds or any desired cookie cutter shape. Bake on parchment-lined baking sheets in preheated 350F oven for 8-10 minutes, then cool on a wire rack. Must be stored airtight - they keep well, but handle with care as they are fragile. This recipe makes about six dozen rounds.
NUTTY FUDGE
This is an easy fudge recipe that can be made without a candy thermometer. Make sure to use a deep, heavy saucepan. Mix together 4 cups sugar and one 13-oz. can evaporated milk. Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat (which cannot be stirred down) and boil for 8 minutes, stirring often. Pour over mixture in large bowl of : 3 cups chocolate chips (milk chocolate, semisweet or dark), 2 cups chopped nuts, 1 cup butter, 2 tsp. vanilla and 20 large (about one bag) marshmallows. Beat well, making sure all marshmallow is incorporated. Pour into a buttered or lined 11”x15” pan, or let cool slightly and drop by teaspoonfuls onto parchment paper. Cool, then refrigerate overnight.
TRADITIONAL SUGAR COOKIES
Sift together 2 2/3 cups allpurpose flour with one teaspoon baking powder and one-half teaspoon salt. Set aside. Beat ¾ cups butter with one cup sugar until light. Beat in two eggs and two teaspoons of flavoring - vanilla, or a mixture of vanilla and almond flavorings or citrus. Stir in the flour mixture and mix until smooth. Wrap and chill several hours until the dough is firm enough to roll out onto floured surface. Cut into desired shapes, then bake on parchment-lined
baking sheets in preheated 375F oven 810 minutes or until they just begin to color. Cool on wire racks. Decorate with a confectioner’s sugar frosting (tinted with gel food coloring if desired) and decorated with colored sugar and candy shots. Frostings, icings and glazes are of three different consistencies and have differing ingredients - frostings being thicker and richer, having a butter or cream base. Icings and glazes are usually made from confectioner’s sugar with juice or water.
AND A KETO BROWNIE FOR MY BETH
Butter an 8” cake round. Stir together and set aside 1 ½ c. almond flour, ½ c. flax meal, two teaspoons baking powder, 2/3 cup cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt and one teaspoon espresso powder and 2 teaspoons vanilla. Mix together 8 T. melted butter with ½ -2/3 cup xylitol and three beaten eggs, then fold in the dry mixture. Spoon into cake round and bake in preheated 350F oven about 10-16 minutes, or until it is a bit firm. Overbaking it will make it indistinguishable from your kitchen sponge in taste and texture! Let cool. Frost with cocoa cream cheese frosting. Mix together ½ cup butter with 8 ounces cream cheese until smooth - add ½ cup powdered xylitol, 6-8 T. cocoa (or more), one teaspoon espresso powder, two teaspoons vanilla and enough heavy cream (add by the teaspoonful) to make of spreading consistency. I’m adding this to my list, but it’s still a work in progress!
By A. Smith Bowman Distillery
Warm up this winter with these so tasty cocktails They will help you get through the cold....or the holiday madness! Happy Holidays!
Southern Hospitality
·3 oz. Mary Hite Bowman Caramel
Jack Frost Nipping at Your Nose? SpiritS Winter cocktails
Bourbon Cream Liquer (Chilled)
·3 0z. Root Beer
·Whipped Cream (Optional)
·Chocolate Syrup (Optional)
·Pour cream liquer into a glass of your choice.
·Top with root beer.
·Garnish with whipped cream and a light drizzle of chocolate syrup if desired. Enjoy!
Maple Cinnamon Bourbon
·1.5 oz. Bowman Brothers Bourbon
·1 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
·.5 oz. Maple Syrup
·Pinch Ground Cinnamon (optional)
·Fill a cocktail shake two-thirds full with ice.
·Pour in bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup and pinch of ground cinnamon.
·Shake well and strain into oldfashioned glass with ice. Enjoy!
Winter Bourbon Smash
·1.5 oz. Bowman Brothers Bourbon
·2 tbsp. Jam/Preserves of choice
·.5 oz. Triple Sec
·1 oz. Orange Juice
·Orange Segments
·Add all ingredients to a shaker half full with ice.
·Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
·Strain into a chilled glass with ice.
·Top with a splash of club soda.
·Garnish with orange segment. Enjoy!
CominginJanuary
Christmas Cookies & Wine Pairings
by Rita Allen
It is obvious the milk. is the perfect pairing for cookies, but what about wine?
Some other pairing ideas we came up with include:
"A Symphony of Fruity Bliss" when a sugar cookies are paired with Riesling, Gewürztraminer, or Moscato. The fruitiness in these wines perfectly complements the sweet notes of sugar cookies, creating a harmonious balance on the palate. For a more decadent touch, try pairing shortbread cookies with a buttery Chardonnay or a crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc
"A Frozen Elixer of Sweetness" is created when a pineapple upside down cake is paired with an ice wine. For a truly unique experience, explore the world of ice wine. Produced from frozen grapes, this nectar-like wine-particularly when enjoyed with shortbread cookies creates a delightful combination. The honeyed sweetness of ice wine complements the crystalized sugary notes of the pineapple and Mari chino cherry, making it a match
made in dessert heaven.
"A Fruity Fusion" when Apricot Regelach is paired with Champagne for a delectable combination. The fruity side of desserts comes alive, as the ripe fruit notes in Champagne perfectly accentuate the apricot filling. The buttery pastry, a hallmark of Regelach, pairs seamlessly with the rich pastry and brioche bread notes found in Champagne.
of Sauternes complements the bold mint flavors, creating a balanced and delightful pairing.
"A Ginger Snap" happens when gingerbread and Snickerdoodles are paired with a 10-Year-Old Tawny. The warmth of gingerbread and Snickerdoodles finds a companion with tawny's flavors of roasted nuts, caramel. And brown sugar in these wines brings out the molasses undertones in the cookies, creating a delightful dance of flavors.
"Chocolates and Berries Marry" when a Chocolate Crinkle and Grenache are paired The rich cocoa notes of the cookies harmonize seamlessly with Grenache's luscious red berry and spice undertones, creating a symphony of flavors on the palate. Opt for a quality Grenache with a balanced profile for the ultimate pairing experience. Sip, savor, and revel in the exquisite dance of tastes, as this match made in dessert heaven elevates your indulgence to new heights.
"A Festive Fusion" occurs when Rainbow Cookies and a White Port are paired The almond, apricot, and raspberry flavors in the cookies find harmony with the dried apricots, ginger, cooked white plum, and warm nutmeg of this port.
"A Nutty Affair" is born when a Rugelach and Rutherglen Muscat are paired From the Jewish kitchen, Rugelach finds its match in Rutherglen Muscat. The spiced, nutty, and sweet notes of Rugelach are beautifully complemented by the caramelized sugar aromas of this Australian dessert wine.
"A Minty Delight" gets you hooked when Peppermint Meltaways and Sauternes are paired The peppermint meltaways can be challenging, but Sauternes, a French dessert wine, rises to the occasion. The sweet and acidic nature
"A Playful Duo" of a Jam Thumbprint and Brachetto d'Acqui are the full spumante. Light, fizzy, and fuchsia, Brachetto d'Acqui, from Northern Italy, adds a playful touch to jam thumbprint cookies. The fresh berry notes in the wine harmonize with the strawberry and raspberry flavors in the cookies, creating a joyful and exuberant pairing.
"A Classic Combination" of Chocolate Chip and Cabernet If you think classic is boring, you could not be more wrong. Savor your chocolate chip cookies with a glass of Cabernet. The full-bodied and moderately dry red wine cuts through the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a perfect balance. Serve your cookies warm with a side of ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
"A Wholesome Harmony" will sing warmly with this Oatmeal Raisin and Shiraz pairing For the health-conscious cookie enthusiast, pair oatmeal raisin cookies with a glass of Shiraz. The dark, spicy, and peppery notes of Shiraz create a harmonious contrast to the wholesome goodness of oatmeal, making it a delightful "opposites attract" pairing.
Cheers, here is hoping your wait for Santa is filled with charming Crooked & Weedy cookies, wine and Creamy Dreams!
City Vino, 100 Hanover St (use Sophia St entrance) is were you will find owner Rita Allan to provide answers to all your wine questions
CALEND
Sunday December 1
Window Wonderland, entry form at Visitor Center, Answer riddles in the windows of the participating businesses Win prizes entry due Decc 31
Sunday Hike with Rescue Dogs at Old Dominion Humane Society! Meet at 8:40AM, 3602 Lafayette Boulevard..(every Sunday)
Sunday Brunch Sunken Well Tavern, 9a-2 , & bluegrass music from 6-8, 720 Littlepage,
Sunday Brunch at the Colonial Tavern 11a-3p
A Wee Christmas Dollhouse & Miniatures Show, Historic Kenmore highlydetailed replica dollhouses - including Kenmore itself & miniatures
Crowninshield Museum 10a-4p 1201 Washington Ave. Thru Dec 30
Winter Wine Festival some amazing Virginia Wine. Gates open 11a come early stay late FXBG Fairgrounds, 11-4
Gingerbread House Exhibit Ferry Farms, Enjoy whimsical sights & delicious smells of festive gingerbread creations 10a-4p, thru Dec 30
Monday December 2
Open Mic @Colonial Tavern sign-up:6:45; Music begins &p, 406 Lafayettee Blvd
Tuesday December 3
Indigenous Perspectives, Exibit begins at Howell Branch CRRL, Explore VA Tribal communities from the past. Thru Dec20,
Tap into Trivia Night , Red Dragon Brewery , 1419 Princess Anne ST, 7p
Wednesday December 4
Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm 720 Littlepage
Join Trapper Young @ 6 Bears& Goat Trivia Night 7 pm.
Thursday December 5
Tinsel Town Holiday Craft Market, Sunken Well Tavern, Littlepage, 5-9p
Speaker series Dr, Kelly Fanto Deetz, "Bound to the Fire: How Virginia;s enslaved Cooks Helped Invent American Cuisine", CRRL Aud, Fxbg Branch, 10a
Walk with a Doc, Fxbg Food CoOp, 4-5p walk Heritage & Canal Path TRail
Live Music Acoustic Onion, featuring music of the Beatles, Colonial Tavern, 406 Lafayette Blvd
First Friday December 6
Holiday Craft Shsow, FXBG Convention Center, 9a-5p, Show thru Dec 8
Pictures with Santa @FXBG Visitors Center, 601 Caroline ST, 3-7:30p Grassroots Artisan Collective Holiday Market, unique handmade gifts, 59p, Hurkamp Park
Stage Door Holiday Concert, Come Sing with us , night filled with holiday carols & magical performances, 7:30p Caroline St
Photographs by Priscilla Harper PONSHOP, 712 Caroline St 5-9p
Celebrate Winter, Christina Dixon & Brenda J. Brokaw, FCCA Gallery; Holiday Show GIVE THE gift Of Art, Members Gallery, 813 Sophia St
“Wonder of Winter” All Member Show Opening reception 6pm to 9pm.
Art First, 824 Caroline St
"Ornamental Magic" Holiday Works by Members Artful Dimensions, 922
Caroline St Opening Reception, 6-9pm
Feature Artist, Mathew Garman, Glassblowin, Canal Quarters, 1517
Princess Anne St Opening Reception,5-8:30p
"Scenes & Sights", Brush Stroke Gallery, Opening reception, 5-9p, 824
Caroline St
Live Music Rocky Guttman @6B&G, 7-9:30p 1140 Internal Pkwy
Live Music Bailey Hayes @Adventure Brewing North,7-9p, 33 Perchwood
Live Music Rick Hollowell @Log Home Brewing, 6p, 5727 Courthouse
Free Music Friday , Red Dragon Brewery , 1419 Princess Anne ST, 6:30p
Pours & Pasties Burlesque & Variety Show @Strangeways Brewing FXBG, 8;30p, 350 Lansdowwne
Saturday December 7
Stroll with Rescue Dogs ODHS 8:40AM, 3602 Lafayette Blvd. (everySat)
Walking Group, Fxbg Food CoOp, 9-10 (every Sat)
Sunken Well Saturday: Brunch from 9-2, 720 Littlepage
Richmond Makers Market, 212 W.6th St, 12-6p. Meet local artists & makers while shopping for unique handmade goods
Santa at Braehead waiting for you to visit him from 9:30am-12:30pm and 1:30pm - 4:30pm Dec 7,8,14,15
Nutcracker Ballet, Academey of Ballet (see pg 11 for details)
"A Christmas Carol: The Closk Tolls for All", Stage Door Productions, Caroline St, see website for dates & times thru Dec 22
Christmas Parade Fredericksburg Toyland, Downtown Fxbg, 5:30p
Live Music, Made in USA @ 6B&G, 7-9:30p, 1140 International Pkwy
Live Music Homemade Sin @Log Home Brewing, 6p, 5727 Courhouse
Live Music Walking Napster @Strangeways Brewing FXBG, 7-10p, 350 Lansdowne Rd
Sunday December 8
Nutcracker Ballet, Academey of Ballet (see pg 11 for details)
Sunday Brunch Sunken Well Tavern, 9a-2 , & bluegrass music from 6-8, Sunday Brunch at the Colonial Tavern 11a-3p Nutcracker Tea at Richard Johnston Inn, 711 Caroline ST, 2-4p
King George Christmas Tree Lighting, King George Courthouse, 4-6p
Monday December 9
Open Mic @Colonial Tavern 7p, 406
Tuesday December 10
Open Mic w/Green Bean @Adventur Tap into Trivia Night , Red Dragon B
Wednesday December 11 Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm
Join Trapper Young at 6 B&G for Tr
Thursday December 12
Walk with a Doc, Fxbg Food CoOp, 4-
Friday, December 13
Happy "Pawe"lidays, Dorothy Hart Co Santa! Pups get a paw-fect holiday o
All Member Holiday Show Artists' Opening Reception 6-9p 100 Taylor
Ferry Farm Baptist Church Christm Westmoreland Dr
Live Music Brisk Duo @6B&G, 7-9:3
Live Music Harlan Simple @Log Hom
Free Music Friday , Red Dragon Brew
Saturday December 14
Sunken Well Saturday: Brunch from
54th Annual Candlelight Tour,tour tkts at Lewis Store, 1200 Caroline St FAMfaire, historic Market Square shopping experience holiday ma traditional crafts and foods. Local m
Rappahannock Model Railroaders An Fraternal Order of Eagles Lodge #41
Live Music Peter Mealy & Laurie Ros Winter Kids Market, Dorothy Hart C can find baked goods and handmade Chamber Chorale of FXBG, Sounds 1019 Princess Anne St, 3p & 7p; Su
Annual Downtown Cookie Crawl tkts
Second Saturdays @Hanover Place, b with local artisinas, 205 Hanover St
Spotsylvanians "A Hometown Holid Spotswood Furnance Rd, 7-9p
Ferry Farm Baptist Church Christma 1 Westmoreland Dr
DAR of events
Lafayettee Blvd
e Brewing Eagle Village, 7-9:30p
Brewery , 1419 Princess Anne ST, 7p
m 720 Littlepage
rivia Night 7 p. International Pkwy
-5p walk Heritage & Canal Path Trail
ommunity Center picture taken with ornament & treat from Santa. 5-7p
Alliance at Jarrett Thor Fine Arts
r St, Ste 101 Colonial Beach
mas Pageant Living Nativity 7-9p, 1
30p 1140 International Pkwy,
me Brewing, 6p, 5727 Courthouse
wery , 1419 Princess Anne ST, 6:30p
9-2, 720 Littlepage
homes decorated for the holidays, t, or at 400 block Fauquier 10a-5p
, features a spectacular outdoor arket will include vendors selling musicians , 10a-4p
nnual Christmas Train Show 9a-5p, 123, 21 Cool Springs Rd
se Griffith @Wild Hare Cider, 4-7p
Community Center, 9a-2p Shoppers
e items, made by kids
of the Season, Fxbg Baptist Church, nday 2 &7
s at Visitos Center, 4-8p beer, wine cider & hokiday shopping , 12-7p
day Concert", Riverbend HS, 12301
as Pageant and Living Nativity 7-9p,
Live MusicAcoustic Onion @6B&G, 7-9:30p, 1140 International Pkwy
Live Music Darcy Dawn @Log Home Brewing, 6p, 5727 Courthouse
Sunday December 15
Sunday Brunch Sunken Well Tavern, 9a-2 , & bluegrass music from 6-8,
Sunday Brunch at the Colonial Tavern 11a-3p
Candlelight Tour Home Tours, Historic Fredericksburg Foundation, tour nine homes decorated for the holidays, 10a-5p
Pictures with Santa @FXBG Visitors Center, 601 Caroline ST, 10a-3p
FAMfaire, historic Market Square, 10a-4p
Rappahannock Model Railroaders Annual Christmas Train 10a-4p, Fraternal Order of Eagles Lodge #4123, 21 Cool Springs Rd
Spotsylvanians "A Hometown Holiday Concert", Riverbend HS, 12301 Spotswood Furnance Rd, 3p
Richmond Makers Market, Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, 2880 Mountai Rd, Glen Allen, 12-6p. Meet local artists & makers while shopping for unique handmade goods
Monday December 16
Open Mic @Colonial Tavern sign-up:6:45; Music begins &p, 406 Lafayettee Blvd
Tuesday December 17
Tap into Trivia Night , Red Dragon Brewery , 1419 Princess Anne ST, 7p
Wednesday December 18
Trivia Night, Sunken Well at 6:30pm 720 Littlepage
Trapper Young at 6 B&G Trivia Night 7 pm. 1140 International Pkwy
Thursday December 19
Live Music Bruce Middle Group, 7:30-10:30p, Colonial Tavern,
Friday December 20
Live Music 3 Exits to Memphis @6B&G, 7-9:30p, 1140 International
Live Music Hokie Joe @Log Home Brewing, 6p 5727 Courthouse
Free Music Friday , Red Dragon Brewery , 1419 Princess Anne ST, 6:30p
Saturday December 21
Winter Solstice, 4 am
Fxbg Ballet Centre Nutcraker Ballet (see pg 11 for dates & times)
Ugly Christmas Sweater Party @6B&G all day, 1140 International Pkwy
Standup Comedy @Strangeways Brewing FXBG, 7:30, 350 Landsdowne
Live Music Mark Volten @Wild Hare Cider, 205 William St
Live Mujsic Chris Hanks @Log Home Brewing, 6p 5727 Courthouse
Sunday December 22
Sunday Brunch Sunken Well Tavern, 9a-2 , & bluegrass music from 6-8, Sunday Brunch at the Colonial Tavern 11a-3p
Monday December 23
Open Mic @Colonial Tavern 7p, 406 Lafayette Blvd
Tuesday December 24
Tap into Trivia Night , Red Dragon Brewery , 1419 Princess Anne ST, 7p
Wednesday Christmas Day December 25
Hanukkah Begins
Thursday December 26
Kawanzaa begins
Live Music FXBG Blues Society Electric Blues Jam, Colonial Tavern, 7-10p
Friday December 27
Live Music Brian Frankle @6B&G, 7-9:30p, 1140 International Pkwy
Live Music Nick & Steve Pollock Duo @Log Home Brewiing, 6p, Courthuse Free Music Friday , Red Dragon Brewery , 1419 Princess Anne ST, 6:30p
Saturday December 28
Nature Walk, Downtown Greens Belman Road Campus, 11a
Sunken Well Saturday: Brunch from 9-2, 720 Littlepage
Holiday Lights Night Walk, Enjoy the lights and sights of Fredericksburg with the Fredericksburg Walking Club's 5k/10k Holiday walk! 3-8p
Live Music Sixty Miles South, 7-9:30p, 1140 International Pkwy
Live Music Cheap Whiskey @Log Home Brewing, 6p, 5727 Courthouse
Sunday December 29
Sunday Brunch Sunken Well Tavern, 9a-2 , & bluegrass music from 6-8, 720 Littlepage,
Sunday Brunch at the Colonial Tavern 11a-3p
Woodland Hike at Gerri Melchers Home & Studio 2-3pm.
Monday December 30
Open Mic @Colonial Tavern sign-up:6:45; Music begins &p, 406 Lafayettee Blvd
Tuesday News Year's EveDecember 31
New Years Eve Party @6B&G, all day 1140 International Pkwy
Family Fun Night New Year's Eve Celebration live music, entertainment, kids' games, bounce castle, food vendors, raffles & prizes. PLUS, 9pm Countdown and Ping Pong Ball Drop. 6-9p FXBG Fairgrounds
NYE Party @Brock's Riverside Grill, Dance the night away with live music from G Frequency and Chris Ryan's Acoustic Trio 9PM-1AM
If you are reading this 329th issue of FPF, thank an advertiser now in our 28th year of continuous publication!
List your events email frntprch@aol.com: subject Calendar/Events Deadline for January 2025 issue is December 19th
donatelifevirginia.org dmv.virginia.gov/drivers/#organs.asp
Helping homeless children and families in City of Fredericksburg, Counties of Caroline, Stafford & Spotsylvania 540 371 0831
As I celebrate my eighty-first Christmas season I feel blessed as this has always been my favorite time of the year since my childhood.
Christmas in Virginia 2024
By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks
Historic Virginia with the elegant Colonial mansions, there is something each of us will adore. Mother always would say "Jesus is the reason for the season." The local church's in Fredericksburg always look so beautiful decorated and have the largest attendance during the Christmas season.
I was recently asked what is there to do in Virginia during the Christmas season? I have decided to tell you just a few events locally and state wide that you may attend during holiday season. My friend Emmett Snead farm is always worth a visit for that special tree on route 2 & 17.
Front Porch has a Calendar of Events for the local area each month. The Fredericksburg Christmas Parade is one of the largest events in the area usually on the first Saturday of December. The adjacent counties, have parades and events scheduled also. The VRE Santa Train is popular with the children as Santa and Mrs. Claus are along for the ride. The city will always have a Christmas tree lighting and many of the stores will be decorated and open with specials for the season.
Bush Gardens has Christmas Town with over ten million lights with lots of delicious food and holiday shopping. It
The 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
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
is always crowded, however, it is something the entire family will enjoy. Close to Bush Gardens is Colonial Williamsburg, that is said to be one of the most beautiful places to visit during the holiday season. Unique gifts galore in the many shops and boutiques await the Christmas shoppers. The historic area is all candle lights and greenery with very few holiday lights.
Stratford Hall that is famous for its candlelight tours, with its great hall and the Christmas tree. The beautiful mansion that was the home of the Lee family where General Robert E. Lee was born.
Manassas Christmas parade this parade is smaller than the Fredericksburg parade but is enjoyable as it goes thru the historic downtown Manassas area past the newly opened Civil War museum that features the collection of Daniel P (DP) Newton of White Oak. Mount Vernon by Candlelight, visitors can enjoy the same beautiful settings that George Washington and his family enjoyed with caroling and the traditions of the Founding Fathers. The Mount Vernon mansion is decorated as it was in the 1700"s, tickets for the event can be purchased online. Just a few miles north of Mount Vernon is Historic Alexandria, with the George Washington Masonic National Memorial where the tree lighting ceremony is one of the most beautiful in the state.
Richmond Makers Market, December 7th & 8th just a drive down to Richmond on 212 West 6th Street is the Makers Market. (On December 15 at the Cultural Center at Glen Allen, 2880 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen) The market features local craftsman and artist that sell their handmake crafts, from clothing
to toys, jewelry and Christmas wreaths. While in Richmond you may visit the lights at James River Park, the wonderful park has festive lights along with many food items. You can enjoy a free boat ride on the historic James river with some hot chocolate.
Virginia Beach Santa Slumber Party, for those who like the beach in the winter with the kids. The Founders Inn has a night and a morning with breakfast with Santa. This event is very popular and is usually sold out quickly as tickets must be purchased in advance.
H F F I 54th Candlelight Tour, December 14-115 this Fredericksburg event began in 1970. This year Historic Fredericksburg will have nine homes on the tour it is always a popular event that is attended by people from many areas.
I wish each of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy 2025, remember "Jesus is the reason for the season." Merry Christmas to my wife Anne and family.
Dedicated To: Gerry Snellings, Bonnie Simms, and Doris Torrice
Tuffy is Front Porch’s Resident Hstorian
Photo Tuffy’s Grandchildren 2023 Christmas Card: Emily, Hannah, Harrison, & Connor
OUR HERITAGE
Around the turn of the 18th century, an English clergyman named Thomas Bray, serving as Commissary of Maryland-the colony's chief representative of the Anglican church-established two missionary groups dedicated to promoting Christian knowledge throughout England, Wales, and the colonies. Chartered in 1701, the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts (SPG) was primarily concerned with ministering abroad to convert and educate the native and enslaved populations throughout the English colonies.
Finding the SPG's efforts unsatisfactory, Bray launched a campaign to construct schools and educate Black children in 1724. Initially centered in Georgia, Bray's movement, the Associates of Dr. Bray, gained a foothold in the midAtlantic region through the advocacy of Benjamin Franklin During a visit to Williamsburg in 1756, Franklin learned about Bray's efforts and helped start such a school in Philadelphia. Its success prompted Franklin to become an Associate and promote new Bray schools in New York; Newport, Rhode Island; and Williamsburg, Virginia.
The Bray School for Enslaved Children
By Malanna Marie Henderson
The Williamsburg Bray school opened in 1760 and continued for 13 years Colonial Williamsburg has recently discovered the original building, which will be open to the public next year after restoration is complete
Church leaders in Fredericksburg were also influenced by Bray's work, and a comparable school opened here in April 1765 after the Reverend James Marye, Jr , appealed to John Waring, secretary for the Associates of Dr. Bray, for support. Marye's request was granted, and he, along with his father, James Marye, Sr., and Fielding Lewis, established a school in Fredericksburg.
Lewis to the Associates survive to describe it. Lewis was administrator of what he called the School for the Education of Negro Children that operated out of a rented property-the exact location of which remains unknown. Lewis seems to have used the Williamsburg school as a model for rules and curriculum.
Difficulties in establishing the school were apparent from the outset given prevailing patriarchal and racial discrimination. The children ranged from 5 to 8 years old and attended at the convenience of their masters. By the time the first books arrived from England in September, Lewis reported 14 enrolled students. Reverend Marye attempted to boost enrollment by preaching its value from the pulpit and through direct appeal, but the height of the school's influence reached just 16 students.
Relatively little information is available; however, three letters from
In a letter recorded in the minutes of the Association on April 2, 1767, Lewis complained that no enslaver would allow children to attend for all 5 years required to receive a "proper degree of instruction," although some
recognized the benefit of teaching English to new arrivals from Africa to better obey commands. The Associates encouraged Lewis to keep the school open for the benefit of those who did attend; however, low enrollment persisted and by 1768, only nine children attended regularly with enrollment falling to four in the summer.
The money provided by the Associates for the teacher's salary and rent became insufficient, and Lewis closed the school in 1770 after 5 years. Lewis's last letter to the Associates explained that white owners saw educating the enslaved as a detriment to their own self-interest.
Malanna Henderson is a novelist, playwright, singer, songwriter, and Zumba enthusiast. She serves as vice president of the Riverside Writers Club, and occasionally writes articles for local
This building in Williamsburg was used as a Bray school from 1760 until 1774 It is the oldest known structure in which Black children were formally educated in America It was recently relocated and restored Photo credit: Brenda Sostak, Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
907 Princess Anne Street, Downtown Fredericksburg
Drawing of Thomas Bray, University of Virginia, Special Collections
Circa 1750s painting of Fielding Lewis by John Wollaston , Credit: George Washington Foundation
Mental Health Handling Holidays, A Reality check
By karen kallay
As a young parent, I felt responsible for ensuring that everyone around me had magical holidays. That meant lots of planning, decorating, cooking, consulting with relatives, hiring a Santa Claus, shopping for presents, hiding them. Oh, and sending holiday cards. And group exchanges of knick-knacks or cookies. It became nerve-racking! Sound familiar?
Reality check: I was trying to reproduce childhood magic with an overlay of Hallmark imagery! I gradually adopted suggestions and ideas from mental health experts and members of support groups I've attended and now share below. Examples are rhetorical but real.
For starters, shorten my lists and commitments! I can say No, possibly with a short comment. "I'll have to think about it." "It's really not my thing." "I just have too much going on!"
What if I am not looking forward to extended family time? Conversations
might get tiring or boring or even mean. I might agree to a more limited time when a agree to go. Once there, I might take an occasional breather in another room or even go for a walk. I might get myself a job in the kitchen. If I am asked about something I don't want to talk about, I can say so…in a quiet and firm way. I might focus on the individual I most enjoy and swap stories. I might have my own transportation so I can leave early if I need to.
Maybe I've become isolated and want to find some company during the holidays. Again, planning ahead can help as I identify a colleague or neighbor to maybe do something with. On social media I might learn of an activity to attend. Faith communities often have open events. Papers like Front Porch have a whole calendar section! The library, our local governments, for example fxbg.com/events/ and MeetUp offer activities where you can meet like-minded people.
The holidays can get expensive, especially if travel is involved. It's one thing to go into debt for an investment in the future-like education or property-but quite another to have a holiday hangover of higher credit card payments for novelties that are already wearing off. Psychologists suggest that the more we accumulate, the more stuff we feel burdened with--while our closets, garages and storage units continue to fill with forgotten must-haves. Families with very limited income can usually get help providing gifts for young children by checking with nonprofits and schools. Older children can learn to plan early what they can and want to give and how they will go about it.
Hate crowds? Shop at off-hours or online at trusted websites. If you're creative, you may enjoy the creative process as much as the giving. Check out the free IdeaSpace equipment workshop provided by our fabulous regional library www.librarypoint.org/ideaspace/.
Missing a loved one who has passed? Rather than mourning their passing, family time might be an opportunity to share pleasant or funny or happy stories about them, perhaps looking
at photos, noting ways that they taught or inspired.
What about all that bad-ffor-mme fantastic food and drink? Most of us can slip a little during the holidays, and benefit from that kindness to ourselves with the honest understanding with our "inner parent" that it's temporary. I think we all know that addictions to drugs like alcohol tolerate NO exceptions to abstention and a friend will support that! People who are "in recovery" may arrive with their own chosen drink.
A word of caution for people on medications. Make sure your supply will take you through the holiday season. Doctors take holidays, too, and refills may not be easy to arrange.
And it's amazing how calming a few slooow deeeep breaths can be. Relax your face, neck, shoulders, stomach. Yes, you got the idea. Enjoy!
Karen Kallay. lives in Fredericksburg and volunteers as Community Liaison for National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Rappahannock affiliate. She welcomes comments, questions, and column suggestions at kkallay@namirapp.org.
The December edition of Front Porch. The perfect opportunity to provide a Dr. Gagg* style warning about holiday health hazards for you to worry about.
ACCIDENTS
Not a few overzealous dads fall off roofs hanging Christmas lights. Others create conflagrations from home engineered electrics - which, if you're not Chevvy Chase in a goofy movie, may not be so hilarious.
Christmas tree fires are reported to cost $10 million a year in property damage.
Then be careful what you buy the grandkids - there were 206,400 visits to emergency rooms in 2021 over the
holidays - mostly for choking on small components.
Another category of accident is the roads. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warns about many people on the move and the marked increase in car accidents over the holidays.
EATING AND DRINKING
The holidays are associated with over-eating of course. There are warnings about food poisoning - mostly from leftovers not properly stored.
But, probably a far bigger danger is the "well . . . . . it's the holidays" attitude.
Restraints are set aside, and every celebration seems to be a hideous surfeit of high fat, refined carbohydrates, sugary indulgence - and that fat man that comes by and consumes all that milk and
By Patrick Neustatter, MD
cookies isn't a good role model of course.
Then there's that cheery poisonalcohol. A poison to that attacks your stomach, nerves, brain and liver turning you in to a demented, dyspeptic, cirrhotic with peripheral neuropathy if you keep at it.
In the short term it is primarily its role in promoting those traffic accidents, which some agencies say are increased as much as five fold.
Or one less well-known medical issue attributable to holiday partying specifically is when the booze tips you into atrial fibrillation - the "Holiday Heart Syndrome".
YOUR MENTAL STATE
Most commonly complained about seems the mental/emotional toll.
The cards, presents, cooking, travel plans, family get-togethers, office parties - all those things that add to the to-do list can push anyone into a panic attack.
I have commented before about people getting depressed over the holidays - because they feel bad that they are not extatically joyous and ebullient as Hallmark and apparently the whole of society expects us to be. They need that alcohol.
The expense is burdensomeLending Tree reports 47 percent of adults are "dreading the holidays this year due to the associated cost."
Buying presents is especially stressful - fretting about if the recipient is going to spend a whole lot more on my present than what I spend on them.
Similarly Lending Tree reports "half of parents . . . say they're worried about disappointing their children if they don't spend enough on holiday gifts."
THE LITTLE DEARS
Two other of my Christmas curmudgeon complaints are:
All those turgid Christmas music ear worms - I'm writing this still two weeks shy of Thanks Giving but 'Santa Baby,' 'Jingle Bell Rock' 'It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year' are topping the Spotify charts already.
And, my wife Paula, never seeming to tire of the same sucky Christmas movies - I am gibbering on the couch beside her as she watches 'A Christmas Carol,' 'Christmas Vacation,' 'It's a Wonderful Life' - all for the 300th time.
HAVE A GOOD ONE
This is my somewhat tongue-incheek litany of potential woes that the holidays may bring you. A desperate attempt to be seasonally lighthearted, but a touch medical.
I would not want to diminish your holiday cheer and hope you all stay well for whatever holiday you celebrate and however you do it.
*Dr. Gagg is my alter-ego/ nom-de-plume that I used to write 'Dr. Gagg's Diary' under for Front Porch in the old days.
Deaneal Kennedy & Kelly Griffis end of life doula: companions to the dying
By Mary Beth Geil
What is an end of life doula? An End of Life Doula is a Companion to the Dying and much more. It takes a compassionate person to become a doula and it's reassuring to know that we have such persons in our local area. Deaneal Kennedy (above) and Kelly Griffis (above right) are local ladies that have answered the call and serve as End of Life (EOL) doulas (also referred to as death doula).
Deneal Kennedy has been an EOL doula for over ten years and has assisted dozens of clients in a graceful, honoring process that includes deeply listening, creating space for reflection by the dying and their family, discussing available resources. Her clients often want to find meaning in their lives. Sometimes, they just need a neutral party to help them address areas where they may have anxiety or need closure, like with a familial relationship that has been difficult. Other times, the family is in denial of the death, serving as an obstacle to closure for the dying. Her services are also available to
families grieving the loss of pets.
Deneal received her training and is working towards her advanced certification through the International End of Life Doula Association. In Deneal's words "My own experience with death and as a caregiver drove me to learn and serve more deeply, helping not only clients but also family, friends and myself. I think it goes without saying that most of us prefer to delay our own death and the death of those we care about. We seem to avoid the topic altogether instead of honoring death as a part of living and being fully present as end of life approaches."
Kelly Griffis is a newer doula. She had a calling to become a doula for many years. She followed it through and received her certification from the International Association of Professional Death Doulas in January 2024. In this short time, she has assisted three clients. Her doula services include:vigil work that includes standing vigil with the dying before, during, & after, home-funeral preparations & support, grief counseling, housekeeping & organization for the family, and conducting a "Living Funeral" for the dying, their family & friends to ensure they all have an appropriate time that they can share together.
In Kelly's words "On a more personal level, it's nice to give the dying and their families comfort in the time leading up to passing & of course the inevitable. Making sure the dying have an actual say in preparation & their needs are met on a more intimate level. I hope to reach as many people in need as possible to just be able to speak to them to at least let them know that they're heard through their grief. No one
should go through this heavy facet of life alone. There is care for all, no matter what circumstance." Kelly as well will work with families grieving the loss of pets.
Often a family does not know where to start, Deneal suggests contacting a Doula even if you do not know exactly what you need, want, or what's available. Some doulas charge a fee for their services, however most will offer the first conversation at no charge. The doula can talk it through with you. A client may ultimately decide that what a doula offers is not what they need right now. The doulas are still willing to refer families to resources to help their journey. Deneal shared, "Ultimately, we want families to find the best fit for them, don't be afraid to ask a doula to help connect you with another doula option."
A big thanks to Deneal and Kelly and all the others that are answering the call to serve as an EOL Doula. If you feel
drawn to this service, Deneal can be reached by email at denealmariekennedy@gmail.com and Kelly can be reached through her web page: www.thedawningfox.com/end-of-life-doula.
Mary Beth Geil is a resident of Spotsylvania enjoying retirement and writing articles.
Who invented Santa Claus?
Santa Claus can be traced back to Turkey when a monk name St. Nicholas was born in 280 AD. He gave away all his inherited wealth. He traveled helping the sick and poor. In America during the latter part of the 1800's in New York where Dutch families gathered to honor the death of Saint Nicholas, or "Sinter Klaas" which is short for Santa Claus. In 1822 Clement Mor wrote a poem know today "T'was The Night Before Christmas", which depicted Santa as a jolly man who flies from house to house in a sled powered by reindeer to deliver toys to children.
Christmas Trees? Each year there are over 20 million real Christmas trees sold in the United States that are between four and fifteen years old. Today the trees
are recycled into mulch instead of being burned or going to the landfill.
Christmas as a Federal Holiday? It was not until 1870 on June 26 that Christmas became a federal holiday.
Eggnog? The popular drink that many folks drink with and without alcohol during the holiday season has been around since the beginning of America. It is recorded that Captain John Smith enjoyed the drink at Jamestown in 1607.
Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center? The tradition of having a
Did You Know? christmas facts
Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center was started by a group of construction workers in 1931. The tradition continues today with televised celebration each year.
Rudolph red nosed reindeer? Known as the most famous reindeer of all, actually was the idea of Robert May's. He wrote a poem to help Montgomery Ward department store increase sales. Montgomery Ward gave away copies of
by tuffy hicks
the book to customers. Today the book is a collectors item, and Rudolph is still the most famous reindeer.
Poinsettia plants? The red and green plant from Mexico came to America in 1828 when Joel Poinsett, an American minister to Mexico brought some back to America during the Christmas season.
Tuffy “Ralph” Hicks is a history buff & resident of the ‘Burg
Art in the Burg
Art Galleries in december
Treasured Memories and Special Places
All Member Exhibit
Opening Reception First Fri, Dec 6, 5--99p
Brush Strokes Gallery
In their creations for their December exhibit, Brush Strokes Gallery artists celebrate scenes and sites that convey moods and memories that have a special place in their creators' hearts as well as in the hearts of many viewers and visitors. The emotive impact of the artwork is accentuated by their display during the winter months, a time of nostalgia and reverie.
Lois Baird's "January Twilight" whisks viewers to the fleeting moments of sunset, conveying the precious, rapidly evolving atmosphere of the close of day. In his painting of snow-laden winter scene in the woods, "Winter Beauty, " Mark Parmelee creates an aura that is both comforting and thought-provoking, while Stacy Gerise's "Still Hanging On" connotes the transformation of the cusp of the seasons. In her photograph "Vining," Norma Woodward signals gratitude for the brilliant colors of autumn while Penny A Parrish conveys the joy of spending an afternoon in an ancient winery in "Winery Hat." Taylor Cullar elicits reflections on elements of seasonal change throughout the years in his photograph of the Historic “Kenmore Plantation” and Laura O'Leary offers a moment of light-heartedness in her photograph of a "Tentative Tortuga" who may be reluctant to venture out.
..~-Collette Caprara
Photographs by Priscilla Harper PONSHOP, 712 Caroline St Reception, 5-99p
PONSHOP is excited to exhibit the photography work of Priscilla Harper December. Priscilla will be offering a 16"x24" framed photographic print titled "Woodland Waterfall on Arran Isle, Scotland" to be raffled with proceeds to be used towards recovery efforts of artists affected by Hurricane Helene in Asheville, NC
Gabe Pons
“Wonder of Winter” All Member Show
Opening reception Dec 6, 6pm to 9pm
Art First, 824 Caroline St
The Art First cadre of artists will curate a collection of works that celebrates the magic and nostalgia of winter for the December er show.
Opening Reception will be during First Friday, December 6, 6-9pm. Light refreshments are available. The collection will otherwise be on display during normal gallery hours. As is the tradition at Art First, the other gallery artists have curated some of their best new works to display. Catch the new vibe at Art First.
~Gary Close
"Ornamental Magic" Holiday Works by Members
Artful Dimensions, 922 Caroline St
Opening Reception, First Friday December 6 , 6-99pm
~ Sally Cooney Anderson
All Member Holiday Show
Artists' Alliance at Jarrett Thor Fine Arts
Opening Reception December 13, 6-99p
100 Taylor St, Ste 101 Colonial Beach Show features a varitey of painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry & wood furniture
Rob Rudick
Feature Artist, Mathew Garman Glassblowing Canal Quarters, 1517 Princess Anne St Opening Reception, Dec 6, 5-88:30p
~Jeannie Ellis
Print Jazz Pete Morelewicz Murals @FXBG Visitor Center
“A Winery Hat”, Penny a Parrish @ BSG
Artist
“Incoming ll”,Robyn Ryan “Me & Mrs Snow ”,Beverley Coates “Rappahannock Winter”Lynn Abbott
All Member @Artful Dimensions
Pricilla Harper@PONSHOP
Whimsical Winter, Judy Green @ Art First
Karen Julihn @Art Alliance
Matthew Garman@ Canal Quarters
Elena McLaughlin is a self-taught jewelry artist, who works in the techniques of wire-wrapping and wire-weaving. Originally from Ukraine, Elena moved to the U.S. in 2012 to pursue a graduate career. A former Fulbright scholarship recipient, Elena received an MA in Native American Studies from Montana State University and a PhD in English from Oklahoma State University. While she enjoys working as an editor, jewelry has always been her passion. She likes to quote Iris Apfel who said that "jewelry is the most transformative thing you can wear." She enjoys making unique, one-of-akind pieces that help people accentuate their personality.
While Elena enjoys classic wirewrap, her work tends to gravitate more toward wire-weaving which allows for
Artist Spotlight elena
more experimentation and focuses on creating peculiar patterns and elaborately designed settings for the stones and beads. Thin wire is handwrapped around thicker base wire to create distinct patterns and weaves which in turn form settings for the gemstones. Elena strives for precision and accuracy in her wraps and weaves. After completion, Elena applies patina to her jewelry and then polishes it. This provides for a more antique look of the jewelry and allows for the weave to stand out and be more distinct. Copper pieces are sealed to prevent further unwanted oxidation.
Elena works with genuine gemstones, including drilled stones, cabochons, and faceted gems. Jewelry is completed in sterling silver, copper, and 14k gold-filled wire. She uses a variety of wire gauges and works with square, round,
mclaughlin
By Jeannie Ellis
and half-round wire to create unique designs that highlight the beauty and individuality of the gemstone.
Elena's goal is to create different, but elegant jewelry of upscale quality that may suit a variety of clients. You can find both dainty pendants and impressive statement pieces in her collection. Her favorite pieces are the whimsical and the playful ones that take shapes of guitars, trees, horses, dragonflies, and other creatures. She loves the challenge of a custom piece that allows her to dip into creativity. Elena also enjoys sharing her skills in her workshops.
Elena travels to art festivals and has exhibited at such well-known events as Arts in the Part (Richmond, VA), Stockley Gardens Arts Festival (Norfolk, VA), an Occasion for the Arts (Williamsburg, VA), Virginia MOCA Annual Boardwalk Art Show (Virginia Beach, VA), and others. 1She is a member of the Canal Quarter Arts where her work is on display.
Jennie Ellis is the owner of Canal Quarter Arts, 1517 Princess Anne
Auto Known Better the traveling trio
By Rim Vining
What if the three wise men had seen this bright light in the eastern sky as was foretold and just stayed home? If there were no Frank and Scents and Murray to spread the word the history of man would be completely different. Yes, I know their real names were Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar aka the Magi! A very hip name for a traveling trio.
So when it was revealed to them that "a child was born" and it meant a twelve day trek through the desert they just put on their sandals and hit the Silk Road. They recognized it was their civic duty to get the word out. They did stop off at a bazaar along the way and picked up a few appropriate gifts for a newborn male once suckling no longer held his attention. Actually, the gifts were well thought out and became the standard for all gifts to newborns for thousands of years.
I doubt his parents ever told him about the gold. They just turned it into Savings Bonds for his "future" like the ones your great aunt bought you over the years that you never knew existed until her lawyer sent them to you after her passing. Original E-Series bonds keep earning interest… I know… thank you Aunt Josephine! The Frankincense might have been appreciated since they were living in a stable but the Myrrh? Not an everyday item, so I guess they might have just added it to those old Christmas tree air fresheners hanging from the mirror.
Fast forward a few thousand years and…
This may come as a shock but there is a reason Starbucks and Chick-fil-A have added multiple drive-through lanes to their restaurants. Americans have become so lazy and so addicted to their
touch screens and apps that their legs have started to atrophy to the point where they have extreme difficulty moving from the couch to the car and God forbid all the way to the checkout line under their own power. Dunkin Doughnuts doesn't even pretend to have restaurants anymore as their expansion program only builds drive-through locations!
It's no longer about miles per gallon. It is now focused on calories and sugar content. And as long as you never have to get out of the car why not stay in those pajama bottoms 24/7? But even that deserves some respect, like not mixing plaids and stripes for Christ's sake. And don't get me started on Crocks as dress shoes.
Note a hint of age creeping into my observations?
Normally at this time of year I become somewhat more pliant due to the constant intake of seasonal treats and holiday cheer. I start to reminisce about those good old days of 'yore when families decked the halls with all manner of flammable objects and used real lead for tinsel on their trees. You actually licked your fingers to grab the next strand. No issues there. And let's not forget the lights that burned so brightly they scorched your hands when you tried to hang the ornaments on those dried out tinder sticks.
As we enter this season of hope and inspiration, I struggle to tame the wilder emotions and thoughts of buyer's remorse. My dilemma? 245 Million Americans were eligible to vote last month but 40% stayed home and the winner didn't even get one-third of the possible votes!
The Magi answered their call, put on their Crocs and got out of the car… all three of them! So let's have faith, strive to do better and reach out to your fellow man all year. We the King ain't a hip trio… it's a bad song.
~autoknownbetter@gmail.com
Rim Vining, humorist, friend and a devoted community volunteer.
The City of Fredericksburg is excited to announce a new project to replace 95 old streetlights in the Mayfield neighborhood with new, energy-saving LED lights. This initiative reflects City Council's commitment to being a climateforward city, with a goal to have 100% renewable energy power municipal operations by 2035. The new LED lights will save money, help the environment, and make our neighborhoods safer
This pilot project will replace the traditional high-pressure sodium and mercury vapor streetlights with energyefficient LED streetlights. Work is expected to begin on Monday, December 2, 2024 and take approximately one week to complete all of the installations. Dominion Energy and their contractor, River City Construction, will be working along the city streets with minimal disruption to the neighborhood. Work on each light pole will take approximately 20-30 minutes. Residents need not take any action.
City Launches Pilot Project new led streetlights in mayfield
The Mayfield neighborhood was selected for this important energy-ssaving initiative for several reasons This neighborhood has many streetlights within a city block layout, which is the ideal setting to evaluate the effectiveness and the impact of this new LED technology. Additionally, the Mayfield community has been actively requesting improvements for better street lighting for both visibility and neighborhood safety. This focused area is also an ideal setting for the City to gather data for future upgrades to streetlights across the city.
The LED conversion is expected to bring substantial energy savings , reducing the utility bill for Mayfield's street lighting by an estimated 18% annually. Along with cost savings, this project will help reduce the city's environmental impact by reducing approximately 30 metric tons of CO2 emissions associated with power generated for the old streetlights each year. The new LED fixtures come with a guaranteed
By Sonja P. Cantu
lifespan of 10 years, though they can last up to 20 years. This far exceeds the traditional streetlights which typically last only 2-5 years. These savings and environmental benefits are part of the City's larger goal to be more sustainable.
To ensure optimal lighting quality, the City collaborated with Dominion Energy's lighting specialists, who have developed a municipal LED lighting standard based on years of experience converting municipalities to LED technology. This standard includes carefully selected lighting patterns and color temperatures designed to provide efficient and comfortable illumination. The City currently contracts with Dominion Energy to maintain 1,553 streetlights within the city limits.
As older light fixtures failed, they were replaced with newer and more efficient LED street lights. Residents can expect a slightly cooler light from the new fixtures, similar to the LED fixtures already installed in the neighborhood on Howison Avenue, Tyler Street, Howard
M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm
Avenue, Frazier Street, and South Street. This cooler, whiter light provides improved visibility, and safety, while maintaining an appealing aesthetic.
The City will monitor performance of these new lights and gather community feedback throughout the pilot project. Contingent on good performance results (and funding), similar upgrades are being planned citywide in 2025 and 2026
Residents are encouraged to send questions and feedback about this initiative to the Department of Public Works at 540-372-1023 and online at FredericksburgVA.gov.
For more information on City Council's 100% Renewable Energy Resolution, please visit FredericksburgVA.gov/green.
is the Public Information Office Communications Officer for City of FXBG
810 Caroline Street (540) 371-5684
Sonja Cantu
C o m p a n i o n s
family's love of rescue dogs
by lenoraKruk-Mullanaphy
Twelve-yyear-oold Baily, mom Casi, and nine-yyear-oold Addy Ortega with Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS) foster dog, Dani, have been volunteering at the rescue for more than a year Dani, one year old and 14 pounds, is a recent arrival to ODHS and is looking for her forever family
When Casi Ortega and her daughters, Baily, 12, and Addy, nine, went to an event at Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS) in 2023, it was love at first sight for them. Before they became volunteers, the Ortegas attended the ODHS Cinco de Mayo event, where the rescues dogs waiting to be adopted were featured. After spending time with the dogs, they immediately filled out the application that would allow them to become full-fledged volunteers.
Baily and Addy have been around animals their entire lives, and volunteering was a natural step for them. Through their time at ODHS, they've learned to have patience with the rescue dogs and read their body language They'll sit and wait for the dogs to earn their trust-even if it takes a long time.
"The girls are big animal lovers, and they spend a lot of time with the dogs waiting for them to be comfortable with them," said mom Casi. "Sometimes it helps when they offer the dogs treats and peanut butter bones."
The family is part of the Welcome Wagon Group, which is comprised of volunteers who are responsible for "intake" for the new rescues. This includes checking their records and finding out if
they've been spayed/neutered, giving them dewormer, fastening a martingale collar on them and making kennel cards to identify the rescues and some of their personality traits. They're also part of the Puppy Team, which requires them to be at the facility twice a day. The team rotates shifts to ensure the puppies are fed and get their daily exercise, as well as keeping the kennels and facility clean.
Since there's always a rescue to fall in love with at ODHS, the family has taken many of them home to foster, including their current canine, Dani. Bailey and Addy help by watching the fosters when they play and go out for potty breaks in the yard. When Ortega feeds and bathes the dogs, the girls are always on hand to help out. Not kids to shy away from tasks, they clean up any messes the rescues make. Most of all, they provide the dogs with a secure home and lots of love and attention which they may not have ever experienced before arriving at ODHS. "We volunteer at least two times weekly, but sometimes we're at ODHS five times a week, especially in the summer when the kids are off from school," said Ortega. "They have no problem getting up early in the morning when they know we're going to volunteer and see the dogs."
The Ortega family has two dogs, Finn and Ozzy, who are also rescues.
Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy is a Public Relations Professional & a ODHS volunteer
Join ODHS for Take a Hike Day at 8:45 a m on Sunday, December 17
ODHS hosts Saturday Strolls and Sunday hikes every week, and the public is welcome
ODHS is located at 3602 Lafayette Boulevard in Fredericksburg Adoption events are Wednesdays from 5-7 7 p m , Fridays from 6-8 8 p m and Saturdays from 12-4 4 p m Applications in advance are preferred and take priority over walk-iins
For more information about the dogs available for adoption and adoption applications, as well as upcoming events, volunteering, fostering and donating items, visit www olddominionhumanesociety org
Old Dominion Humane Society is here to provide well-mmatched, permanent homes for animals in need through rescue, rehabilitation and education
THE THE POETRY MAN POETRY MAN
By Frank Fratoe
Walking Into Light Walking Into Light
A veneration is felt when I track ahead under expansive sky and look up to enjoy luminescence over me yet share the ridge which buoys my feet.
Or catch the sparkle of an eternal hour continuing beyond me or circuit a field wherever wildflowers are pushed from soil to renew themselves.
For in those minutes something comes that was there all along as I respect the awe within creation and discover immensity becoming one with it
Frank Fratoe writes poetry from the heart
Donate to a Cancer Organization Let’s Find a Cure!
Astrology & You Astrology in December
Though December is typically a busy month with holidays, this time around we will experience two significant retrogrades with the planets Mercury and Mars. Most folks know about Mercury retrogrades because they happen multiple times per year. Mars retrogrades are less frequent and occur about every 26 months. Both these planets are what we call personal planets because they correlate to archetypes that represent aspects of our personalities. Mercury is said to rule our cognitions, thinking, intellect, and how we communicate. Mars correlates to our survival instinct, the way we assert ourselves, aggression, and how we take initiative. From December 6 when Mars goes into retrograde until December 15 when Mercury stations direct, both planets will be slowing their orbits simultaneously, giving us a bit of a double whammy.
What can we expect? For some it will have negligible impact. It all really
By Dianne Bachman
depends on where these two planets are in your natal chart. On December 1, Mercury will be at 20 degrees Sagittarius and will travel back to 6 degrees Sagittarius. Those with prominent Sagittarius, Pisces, Gemini, or Virgo in their charts are more likely to feel the impact of this retrograde through things like miscommunications or disrupted travel plans My debit cards have been hacked several times over the years during a Mercury retrograde, so I'm always careful to check my accounts. Mars will be in retrograde until February 17, but for the month of December, those with prominent Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius, or Taurus may be more sensitive to these energies Mars retrograde can feel like lower energy and lack of drive For December both planets will be making a trine (120-degree angle) to each other and this is considered a beneficial aspect, though weakened by the retrograde. It would be wise to step back and look at your life trajectory. Do you have a plan (Mercury) to move forward (Mars)? Would it be helpful to review ideas (Mercury) before taking initiative (Mars) on something new? Mars' sluggishness is a good excuse for giving ourselves permission to slow the pace and to rest.
Now here is a look at the rest of the month:
December 1: New Moon in Sagittarius. Plant the seeds for travel, adventure, or new areas of learning. Nurture these throughout the month and watch them grow!
December 5: Mercury cazimi (conjunction) with the Sun in Sagittarius. This combo would bring enthusiasm and an urge for adventure, though the Mercury retrograde may weaken this energy.
December 7: Venus enters Aquarius and makes a conjunction with Pluto. Deepening needs for bonding with others around social interests. Find a cause and explore how participation might benefit the greater good. This also might be an opportune time to evaluate the aesthetics of your environment and heed the call to get rid of the things that no longer express your individuality.
December 7: Neptune stations direct at 27 degrees Pisces. You could feel a heightened sense of humanity, compassion, and empathy for others. Take time for solitude to reflect.
December 15: Full Moon in Gemini. Socialize, share ideas, ferret out any limiting beliefs about yourself and release them. Mercury stations direct today and since Mercury rules the sign of Gemini, this full Moon has a bit of extra zip to it!
December 21: Sun enters Capricorn. This period marks the return of light as the days grow longer. This is a fine time to bring to light the plans for spring, working on the details, estimating how much work will be needed to bring them forward in the spring. Though we may want to leap and jump headfirst, Capricorn holds us back a bit, helps us look at the realities, some stark.
December 29: Chiron stations direct at 19 degrees Aries. Dubbed 'the wounded healer,' Chiron signals a time when we can revisit our old hurts. In so doing, we may channel pain into constructive action and come from a place of deeper wisdom. Since Chiron's orbit through all twelve zodiac signs is approximately 50 years, this transit speaks to generations.
Note: The USA natal chart (set at July 4, 1776, at 5:10 pm, Philadelphia PA), Chiron was at 20 degrees Aries, so this transit makes almost an exact conjunction. This is significant and could signal the opportunity for our country to heal, especially since this conjunction occurs in the fourth house (the house of home and family). We do, however, have freewill. It is up to us to seize the occasion to heal greed with generosity, to heal the hatred with human kindness, and to heal the violence through peace.
December 30: New Moon in Capricorn. Since this is the second new moon in the month, it is also known as 'The Black Moon.' This occurs about every 33 months, so is on the rare side. This adds greater capacity to reprocess the past in order to come to a greater understanding. Taking responsibility is one theme that is possible. While the new moon period can be a time for setting intentions, this Black Moon intensifies the process.
Dianne Bachman is a psychotherapist & astrologer practicing in FXBG. She can be reached at dbachmanlcsw@gmail.com
Artwork is by Johfra Bosschart--title Sagittarius, circa 1974-1975
Fredericksburg Sketches
A visual Celebration of our community
By Paula Raudenbush
It's another December already, and as it gets colder, there will likely be some interior sketches to come. Meanwhile, here is one of the train station. This one was done from the northwest corner of the Lafayette Boulevard/Princess Anne Street intersection. It took roughly two hours to do and since I still struggle with vehicles, I chose not to color them.
This was a fun sketch to draw, not only because of the subject, but I was surrounded by other sketchers creating their own versions.
I hope you get some sketching materials in your stocking this year, and you'll join us as we continue to document our beautiful city.
Cheers and happy holidays
Dianne Bachman,LCSW
Psychotherapist/Astrologer
Now offering psychological astrology & astrological consultations
In addition to
Individual, family & marital therapy
Hypnosis
Expressive Arts
540.845.7622 diannebachman.com dbachmanlcsw@gmail.com
Fredericksburg Train Station Bridge
Paula Raudenbush is an administor for the Fredericksburg Chapter of the Urban Sketchers and maintains a studio in Libertytown Arts Workshop.
THE LEGEND OF THE POINSETTIA
There is an old Mexican legend about how Poinsettias and Christmas come together, it goes like this:There was once a poor Mexican girl called Pepita who had no present to give the baby Jesus at the Christmas Eve Services. As Pepita walked to the chapel, sadly, her cousin Pedro tried to cheer her up.
'Pepita', he said "I'm sure that even the smallest gift, given by someone who loves him will make Jesus Happy."
Pepita didn't know what she could give, so she picked a small handful of weeds from the roadside and made them into a small bouquet. She felt embarrassed because she could only give this small present to Jesus. As she walked through the chapel to the altar, she remembered what Pedro had said. She began to feel
better, knelt down and put the bouquet at the bottom of the nativity scene. Suddenly, the bouquet of weeds burst into bright red flowers, and everyone who saw them were sure they had seen a miracle. From that day on, the bright red flowers were known as the 'Flores de Noche Buena', or 'Flowers of the Holy Night'.
The shape of the poinsettia flower and leaves are sometimes thought as a symbol of the Star of Bethlehem which led the Wise Men to Jesus. The red colored leaves symbolize the blood of Christ. The white leaves represent his purity.
WHY DO WE KISS UNDER MISTLETOE?
Mistletoe has long been associated with love, fertility, and health. The burning of bonfires is still related to the midsummer collecting of mistletoe in various parts of Europe, a relic of sacrificial ceremonies performed by
Holiday Plants
History & Traditions
ancient priests. Mistletoe was previously thought to have both magical and therapeutic capabilities. Later, the custom of kissing beneath the mistletoe emerged in England and, later, in the United States, an action that was originally thought to surely lead to marriage.
The custom of kissing under Mistletoe seems to comes from England. The earliest recorded date mentioning kissing under the mistletoe is in 1784 in a song from a musical comedy called 'Two to One'. The custom appears to have started around the 1720s, so in the early Georgian period. Mistletoe was also hung on the old English decoration the Christmas Bough or Kissing Bough which were very popular during 1700s - hence the name!
original custom was that a berry was picked from the sprig of Mistletoe before the person could be kissed and when all the berries had gone, there could be no more kissing!
There were illustrations of kissing under the mistletoe in the first book version of 'A Christmas Carol' published in 1843, and this might have helped to popularised the custom. The
The name mistletoe comes from two Anglo Saxon words 'Mistel' (which means dung) and 'tan' (which means) twig or stick! So you could translate Mistletoe as 'poo on a stick'!!! Not exactly romantic is it!
