Porch Light

Stories that shine a light on life sharing a smile...

By Collette Caprara

and a Conversation with a Five-YYear-00ld

May is not only the month of a plethora of delightful blooms but blooming conversations as well, with the many opportunities that Fredericksburg presents to meet with friends in outdoor settings.

The Fredericksburg Area Museum (FAM) is excited to announce the Fredericksburg Area Black Arts FestivalRevisited on June 10, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Presented in conjunction with Seen: Viewing the Work of African American Artists of Fredericksburg (currently on display at the Fredericksburg Area Museum), this festival gives recognition to the rich history of the Harambee 360 Degrees Interpretive Theater, which was established in Fredericksburg in the 1970's, and became the podium for Black artists to find support and exposure. The founder of Harambee 360, Clarence Todd, established the first Fredericksburg Black Arts Festival in the mid -1970s.

Artists that participate in this festival will be shown at Libertytown Arts Workshop and the Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts during the month of October 2023. These exhibits are generously sponsored by Libertytown Arts Workshop.

The museum is currently looking for artists and performers to participate in this festival. Black artists and performers working in Spotsylvania County, Stafford County, Caroline County, King George County and the city of Fredericksburg are encouraged to apply.

Black Arts Festival Revisited June 10 10a-55p

Fredericksburg Area Museum

907 Princess Anne St famva org

Hours: Sun, Mon, Tues: 10a-55p Wed :Closed Thurs, Fri, Sat: 10a-55p

I took the opportunity to do so a while ago when I spotted a friend on the patio of a longstanding favorite deli and bakery. As I joined her, she introduced me to another friend she was chatting with her and her young son. That gathering still brings a smile that I'd like to share with all.

When the son was introduced, he proudly announced that his name was Sam and that he was five years old, and proceeded to talk about an experience that he had "long, long ago." That was an intriguing introduction to his story (which he repeated twice). I suppose it was meant to pique our curiosity about his story but it also sparked a bit of humor because, given Sam's age, his "long, long ago" was likely no more than about three years in the past.

Our table was under a blossoming cherry tree, and as we ladies chatted away, I noticed a look of delight on Sam's face from time to time when winds bounced the branches and released little cascades of petals from the tree. I looked to see if Sam had something to say about that and noticed his right arm was ramrod-straight up. Our conversation continued and I looked again and saw that Sam's arm had not gone down. Then it occurred to me: Could he be raising his hand to join the conversation and add his bit? His mom confirmed that he was, indeed, raising his hand to be recognized and she added it was a bit of pre-school etiquette that he took to heart.

As we packed up our things to leave, the breeze became a gust that created a blizzard of swirling petals and it was a delight to see the glee in Sam's skip as he and his mom departed through the pink petal-fall. That brief encounter still brings a smile.

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