Old Town Crier- May 2018 Full Issue

Since 1988 • Priceless

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

May 2018

Road Trip

THE BOARDWALK PLAZA HOTEL A Victorian Adventure On the Beach Rehoboth, DE Business Profile

THE BITTERSWEET GARDEN Fine Statuary, Antiques & Accessories for the Garden The Plains, VA Dining Out

LA TRATTORIA La Dolce Vita on Washington Street Old Town Alexandria Urban Garden

THE MEMORIAL DAY POPPY Special Feature

A TRIBUTE TO MOM Happy Mother’s Day!

april’18 A Division of Crier Media Group OTC Media LLC PO Box 320386 Alexandria, VA 22320 703. 836. 0132 office@oldtowncrier.com oldtowncrier.com Published the first week of every month.

Worth waiting for!

PUBLISHER Bob Tagert MARKETING & ADVERTISING Lani Gering Bob Tagert SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE Ashley Schultz

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38

A Bit of History............................................................. 16

From the Bay….............................................................22

On the Road with OTC................................................... 1

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Electronic Ink 9 Royal Street, SE Leesburg, VA 20175 703. 669. 5502

After Hours.......................................................................11

From the Trainer............................................................42

Open Space.....................................................................46

Alexandria Events............................................................ 3

Gallery Beat.....................................................................12

Personality Profile.............................................................4

Arts & Antiques..............................................................13

Go Fish...............................................................................45

CONTRIBUTORS Ron Powers Kim Putens Julie Reardon Dave Reynolds Susan Seifried Caroline Simpson Ashley Schultz Bob Tagert Carl Trevisan Ryan Unverzagt Lori Welch Brown Molly Winans

Behind the Bar................................................................32

Grapevine.........................................................................38

Business Profile................................................................. 6

High Notes.......................................................................10

Caribbean Connection...............................................20

In Flanders Fields...........................................................29

Dining Guide...................................................................36

Let's Eat ............................................................................34

Dining Out.......................................................................31

Local Farmers Markets.................................................. 3

Exploring Virginia Wines............................................39

Mother's Day Feature.................................................. 30

Financial Focus.................................................................. 5

Music Festivals '18........................................................11

The Last Word.................................................................... 9

First Blush.........................................................................43

National Harbor.............................................................47

To the Blue Ridge..........................................................26

Fitness................................................................................41

National Poppy Day: May 25th...............................28

Urban Garden.................................................................14

Peggie Arvidson Nancy Bauer Sarah Becker F. Lennox Campello Steve Chaconas Doug Fabbioli Nicole Flanagan Lani Gering Miriam Kramer Genevieve LeFranc Sarah Liu Jeff McCord Melinda Myers

© 2018 Crier Media Group, Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The Old Town Crier is published monthly and distributed to select Alexandria residents, hotels, restaurants and retail shops. Also distributed in the Annapolis, Fredericksburg, Blue Ridge and Washington, DC areas and St. John, USVI.

Since 1988 • Priceless

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Pets of the Month.........................................................19 Points on Pets.................................................................18 Publisher’s Notes.............................................................. 2 Road Trip...........................................................................24 Social Media Message....................................................2 Spiritual Renaissance...................................................44

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

May 2018

Road Trip

THE BOARDWALK PLAZA HOTEL A Victorian Adventure On the Beach Rehoboth, DE Business Profile

THE BITTERSWEET GARDEN Fine Statuary, Antiques & Accessories for the Garden The Plains, VA Dining Out

LA TRATTORIA La Dolce Vita on Washington Street Old Town Alexandria Urban Garden

THE MEMORIAL DAY POPPY Special Feature

A TRIBUTE TO MOM Happy Mother’s Day!

about the cover Emro Sr. - The Boardwalk Plaza Hotel's celebrity Sun Conure Parrot. Read more about Emro and his successor in the Personality Profile column. Photo by Lani Gering

on the road with OTC The Old Town Crier made it to the island of Jost Van Dyke in the BVI’s and to the island of Barbados! There seems to be a common theme with these Old Towners – rum and more rum!

Top: Lynne Rhoades, Brad & Cathy Bradford, Jack Rhoades, Michele Cumberland & Marty Yeager with the Old Town Crier at the Mount Gay Rum distillery. Taking it on the tour of the distillery in Bridgetown, Barbados, during their winter week vacation with friends.

Left: Cheers from Jost Van Dyke and the Soggy Dollar Bar post Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Standing left to right with the Soggy Dollar’s famous “Painkillers” in hand – Charlie, Joe and Chuck Collum were visiting the BVI on a 44’ power catamaran.

Old Town Crier

May 2018 | 1

PUBLISHER’S NOTES

As I write these notes on April 25th, it is 56 degrees and has been raining and overcast for three days. It seems like spring will never get here and stay. It brought a full frontal assault a week or so ago but was beaten back by winter the next day. Read about it in Road Trip. In Personality Profile you will meet Emro from the Boardwalk Plaza in Rehoboth and learn about his predecessor. In Last Word you can get Miriam Kramer’s take on James Comey’s new book A Higher Loyality. It is with deep regret that Jeff McCord will no longer be writing the Caribbean Connection. He and his wife Martha have already moved back to their native Virginia. Read about his last thoughts of the island and people he had grown to love. Love City…St. John Strong! We hope to find another writer in St. John to continue a tenyear tradition. In Gallery Beat read about the involvement of American University’s Katzen Art Museum with the city’s art scene and artists. In A Bit of History read about entrepreneurial

BOB TAGERT

women beginning with Margaret Brent of Alexandria. Check out our annual features honoring our mothers and our military.

Last month we lost a good friend in Alexandrian Tim Geary. President of Clarke and Sampson Insurance, Tim has been a presence and a force in Alexandria for years. He was also a soul of Rehoboth Beach where he owned a beach house. His love of Alexandria and Rehoboth was undeniable. His favorite picture of his beach hung in his Rehoboth home with the caption, “Is this a great beach, or what?!”

“Was Tim a great man, or what?!”

Rest in Peace friend.

Here is hoping that by the time you are reading this that spring really has arrived! Remember your mom on Mother’s Day and remember our military on Memorial Day!

SOCIAL MEDIA MESSAGE

S

o many of us are guilty of having our faces glued to our phones, tablets, or computers constantly checking one or all of our social media sites on a daily basis. Yet, has it ever crossed your mind that this constant exposure to social media can be affecting your health? As a social media “guru” I don’t want to convince you that social media can be a health concern to you mentally and physically, I would be putting myself out of a job, but I want to let you know that it is ok to take a break and bring yourself back to the “real world” 2 | May 2018

ASHLEY SCHULTZ

every once in awhile!

Recently there have been studies that have linked social media use to depression, anxiety, and isolation. Users, both young and old, are viewing profiles and pages of certain people and breaking under the pressure of unattainable standards of beauty and success that they see on others pages. Although sites such as Facebook and Twitter are supposed to enhance our sense of connectedness with other people, research has found that they actually have the opposite effect; they render dedicated users lonelier

and more isolated. Only using social media to connect to people lacks major elements of communication, such as eye contact, body language, the changes in voice, and physical touch. All these elements are key in human mental stability.

Social Media can also have an effect on relationships with family, friends, and our significant others. Things that we post on our personal pages can have unintended consequences. Comments or jokes can all be taken out of context, especially in a medium that encourages quick sharing and rushed reading. Nels Oscar, who conducted a study on how social networking websites perpetuate stereotypes stated, “ A point many people don’t understand when using social media is that their intent is often irrelevant. All people eventually see is the comment, without and other context, and have to deal with the pain it can cause.”

Social Media can also affect our sleeping habits. A 2014 study of U.S. adults ages 1932 found that the participants checked their preferred social media accounts for over an hour per day, on average, and

about 30 times per week. 57% of these users reported sleep disturbances. Researchers suggested that the reason why social media users experience poor sleep include, that they feel compelled to be active on the site at all hours, including late night and the fact that exposure to bright screens before bedtime has been linked to disturbed sleep.

Social Media can also affect productivity. Reports suggest that even when we are at work, we still succumb to the need to check out the newest “likes” and comments, although we know we are not supposed to.

Employees spend an average of 2.35 hours per day, accessing their social media accounts in the workplace. This leads to multi-tasking between work and keeping up with comments and the newest posts. When one multitasks, you lose the ability to focus on any one task at a time.

This causes tasks that would usually take 10 minutes to take much longer. Maybe, this is why it is sometimes difficult to meet deadlines.

If you were not able to make it through reading this column without checking your social

media sites, maybe it is time to take a detox. Give your self a few days or a week a month simply just to disconnect, you might be surprised with the result!

Ashley Schultz has her Master’s in Public Relations from Full Sail University. She also has her Bachelor’s in Entertainment Business, and Associate’s in Show Production and Touring. She is a self proclaimed “geek” and “cat lover” and wouldn’t have it any other way!

Like us on Facebook! @oldtowncrier Old Town Crier

Alexandria MAY TOURS, EXHIBITS, EVENTS

HISTORIC ALEXANDRIA ATTICS AND ALLEYS TOURS SATURDAYS IN MAY 2018 FROM 9 A.M.-NOON Admission: $35; advanced reservations required Departs from: Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden 614 Oronoco St. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum 134 N. Royal St. 703-746-4242 www.alexandriava.gov/gadsbystavern The curious are invited to visit rarely seen spaces at four of Alexandria’s historic sites on this special three-hour walking tour of Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden and Carlyle House Historic Park.

Tickets can be reserved online at shop. alexandriava.gov.

THE 17TH BIENNIAL IKEBANA EXHIBIT May 1st-6th Admission: Free The Art League Gallery Torpedo Factory Art Center 105 N. Union St. 703-683-2323 www.theartleague.org Art and nature come together as The Art League welcomes back the Washington, D.C. branch of The Sogetsu School for our 17th Biennial Ikebana Show. Join us at Art on the Rocks on May 4 and sip cocktails inspired by the Ikebana installations! Recognized as a sculptural form of art, Ikebana, the art of Japanese flower arranging, has over 300 schools of thought.

ART ON THE ROCKS May 4th - 7:30-10 p.m.

Admission: $55 each The Art League Gallery Torpedo Factory Art Center 105 N. Union St. 703-683-2323 www.theartleague.org The Art League is challenging local mixologists to each select an installation from their Biennial Ikebana Show as inspiration to create the most artistic cocktail and appetizer pairing and then compete for the title of “Art on the Rocks” champion. Art on the Rocks ticket holders will get to sample all of the delicious pairings and vote for their favorite during the event. A panel of experts will crown the winners of the most creative cocktail, appetizer, and artwork pairing.

Old Town Crier

CARLYLE’S PERFECTLY PAIRED CHOCOLATE & WINE TASTING May 5th - 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Admission: $40 Carlyle House Historic Park 121 N. Fairfax St. 703-549-2997 www.carlylehouse.org What goes better with wine than chocolate? Join Potomac Chocolate on the Magnolia Terrace for an evening of locally made chocolates paired with delicious wines. There will also be small snacks that guests can enjoy between their wine and chocolate. Tours of the house will run from 6:30-7p.m. with the tasting being promptly at 7 p.m.

Tickets are available online. Ages 21 and over only. Registration required, no refunds.

APOTHECARY MUSEUM GEEK TOURS: OUTLANDISH TOUR May 6th - 11 a.m.-noon Admission: $15 Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum 105 S. Fairfax St. 703-746-3852 www.alexandriava.gov

enjoy personalized tableside service and scrumptious food catered by Calling Card Events for an unforgettable day.

Registration required no refunds.

FREE MOTHER’S DAY TOURS May 13th various times Admission: free for mothers; $5 for all other adults; $3 children ages 5-12 Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum 105 S. Fairfax St. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum 134 N. Royal St. Friendship Firehouse Museum 107 S. Alfred St. www.alexandriava.gov The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum (1-4:45 p.m.), Gadsby’s Tavern Museum (1-5 p.m.) and the Friendship Firehouse Museum (1-4 p.m.) are pleased to offer free tours on Mother’s Day for all visiting mothers!

CALENDAR > PAGE 7

LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS OLD TOWN FARMERS MARKET MARKET SQUARE • 301 KING ST SATURDAY 7 A.M. – NOON, YEAR ROUND Free parking in Market Square garage during market hours People who come to Alexandria on Saturday mornings find themselves in a busy plaza where local farmers and artists have been selling their products since 1753. Old Town Alexandria’s Market Square is thought to be one of the nation’s oldest continually operating farmers markets, serving as a primary source of meat, dairy, fish, fruits and vegetables for Alexandrians.

George Washington sent his produce from Mount Vernon to be sold here. Today, the market offers folks a way to reconnect to the past, while participating in an ongoing local and national tradition.

DEL RAY FARMERS MARKET CORNER OF E. OXFORD & MOUNT VERNON AVES SATURDAY 8 A.M. – NOON, YEAR ROUND The Del Ray Market is producer grown, with fresh vegetables and fruits in season. All year round, this market offers meats, eggs, fresh pasta and sauces, Amish cheese, yogurt, bakery goods, eggs, jams and jellies, fancy nuts and bakery goods.

NORTH MONTGOMERY PARK FARMERS MARKET NORTH MONTGOMERY PARK • 901 N. ROYAL ST THURSDAY 3 – 7 P.M., YEAR ROUND, WEATHER PERMITTING The market will feature local growers, bakers, and other area providers of wholesome foods including Twin Springs, Grace's Pastries, Bread & Water, and Relay Foods.

ALEXANDRIA CALENDAR> PAGE 7

Learn about the role of 18th century female healers on this tour that focuses on the herbal medicines featured in Diana Gabaldon’s celebrated Outlander series of novels. Find everything from cascara to dauco seeds. Tour is from 11 a.m. to noon and costs $15 per person; tour is recommended for adults only.

HISTORY BY THE GLASS: GIN May 11 - 7-9 p.m.

Admission: $50 per person Gadsby’s Tavern Museum 134 N. Royal St. 703-746-4242 www.alexandriava.gov/gadsbystavern Want to know more about the intersection of history and drinks? Then look no further than History by the Glass. Enjoy drinks at the tavern, which historically served a wide variety of beverages, and learn about the history behind them.

MOTHER’S DAY TEA AT CARLYLE HOUSE May 13th at 2:30 p.m.

Admission: $45 per adult; $25 per child ages 6-12; free for children under 5 Carlyle House Historic Park 121 N. Fairfax St. 703-549-2997 www.carlylehouse.org Treat your mother, grandmother, or special woman in your life to an elegant afternoon tea. Relax in the beautiful setting of our Magnolia Terrace and

May 2018 | 3

PERSONALITY PROFILE

LANI GERING

Emro Sr

W

e decided that since we got such a fun reaction to our interview with “Aladdin the Christmas Camel” in the December issue we would feature our feathered friend “Emro the Sun Conure of the Boardwalk” in the May issue.

I was lucky enough to tag along with Bob when he was doing the R&D for his Road Trip column for this month’s issue. The trek to Rehoboth, Delaware and the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel is always a fun one and that’s how I met Emro Jr. We met the original Emro three years ago when we were staying at the Boardwalk conducting much of the same business of gathering information for a feature on Southern Delaware. Sadly, Emro Sr. passed away two years ago at the age of 24, however, happily, Emro Jr. was rescued shortly after.

With a little help from the staff at the Boardwalk Hotel, I was able to garner some important information about my new BFFF (Best Feathered Friend Forever). Jennifer Zerby, Proprietor of the Boardwalk, told me that the original Emro belonged to her husband Jeff ’s grandfather, Orme Meade.

That is how Emro got his name – “Emro” is “Orme” spelled backwards! Very clever, don’t you think? I might have to

Mothers Day with Emro

Emro is handsome 4 | May 2018

Peanut the African Grey Parrot

think about that with the next pet I get that will need a name.

Ummm, wait, maybe not so much...Inal?? Nope.

Jennifer told me, “Emro Sr. lived with Jeff ’s grandparents for a time, but he needed more attention than they could provide, so the family decided he would get plenty of attention from our guests here at the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel.

We installed him in the lobby and he was an instant hit with guests and our staff alike. After he passed away, all of us wanted to continue the tradition we had begun of having a friendly Sun Conure to welcome our guests and to remember and honor Jeff ’s grandfather by keeping the same name as well. And thus, Emro the II aka Emro Jr. was procured.”

“Emro Jr. is actually a handraised avian. He came from a local bird farm (M&D Bird Farm) where they hand-raise babies. Being hand-raised makes them more likely to be easily socialized once here at the Boardwalk Plaza,” said Zerby. She also informed me that, “Caged birds are quite Victorian, you know.” This also fits in with the theme of the hotel.

All I can say is, I am so happy to say that I knew Emro Sr. and now am wild about Emro Jr. He is a crazy, spoiled little bird.

I asked if she had any funny stories to tell me about him and

she replied, “I don’t really have many stories, sorry...except what you experienced, which is that he is a spoiled little birdy who demands attention and will make a lot of noise to get it! It’s interesting how birds “choose” people they prefer. Emro (both of them!) loved(s) my husband, but me, not so much. I think it’s because he is in love with Jeff and sees me as the mate, the competition!” On a side note, I think Emro Sr. liked Bob better than he did me but I know Emro Jr. likes me best! (You can see a video of us on the OTC Facebook page).

I would be really remiss if I didn’t mention Emro’s lobby mate, Peanut. He is an African Grey parrot who is also a Jr. Both he and his predecessor were previously-owned rescue birds. We, regrettably, didn’t spend much time with him and that wasn’t a smart move. When I asked Jennifer for a little more information about him she told me that, “He talks a lot! He is apt to pick up what the front desk says on a regular basis. For example, ‘thank you for calling the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel’, ‘checking in?’, and has also been known to say things he picked up at his original home, such as, ‘Gentlemen, start your engines’.

He is also quite the charmer, wolf-whistling at guests!” Now that I know that, I am definitely not waiting three more years to go back.

Emro has Tea

Old Town Crier

FINANCIAL FOCUS

CARL TREVISAN, CFP© & STEPHEN BEARCE

How to Plan a Retirement Timeline

R

etirement planning can be challenging, but creating a timeline can help ensure your savings stay on track.

Here are some expert tips for helping to ensure your retirement plans are on schedule at every stage.

Set an income goal—and know that it could change.

For younger workers, it can be difficult to determine how much income will be needed in retirement and how much their income will increase over their lifetime. Many people start out looking at an income replacement ratio of around 80%. That said, when you’re younger, 80% of your income is not going to be close to 80% of your income at retirement. That will change over time.

It’s important to set goals early in your retirement planning process. But be prepared to revisit them frequently as you get closer to retirement—and work with your financial advisor to Old Town Crier

make your goals as realistic as possible.

Plan to increase your savings rate. If you’re 20 years old, a savings goal of 10% of your current salary per year is a good start. By age 30 you should be putting away at least 15% per year.

If you have access to a qualified employer-sponsored retirement plan (QRP), such as a 401(k) or 403(b), start there. If your employer offers matching contributions, consider contributing at least as much as the match. This is free money you don’t want to pass up, and it can help you get to the right percentage.

At the same time, consider a Roth IRA or, if available, the designated Roth account option in your 401(k) for their potential tax-free distributions.

Your savings rate should increase as you age; at the same time, you should explore additional investment options so you’re getting the most benefit now and when you’re

in retirement.

Sketch out how long you could be in retirement.

When creating a retirement timeline, one of the most difficult factors is estimating how long you can expect to be in retirement. We suggest planning for 20 to 30 years but strongly recommend a contingency plan in case something forces you into an unexpected early retirement, such as health problems, perhaps, or an unforeseen layoff.

One way of thinking that can help you get there: Plan to retire at age 55. This will allow you to be prepared for unanticipated events, and any money you make by working past that age will be a bonus.

Set the steps to reach your goals. If you’ve gotten a late start on retirement planning, or if you’re rethinking your timeline around a plan to retire at age 55, there are effective actions you can take

now to help pursue your goals.

Keeping a budget is essential. As part of that budgeting, be sure to look at your discretionary spending.

If you’ve been supporting children through college, once they become independent, it might be tempting to reallocate that money to exotic travel or home renovations—but it’s your retirement fund that should get the first deposit.

No matter when you start, planning a retirement timeline is effective only if you budget for saving—and stick with that budget. Your financial advisor can help guide this conversation.

bracket. At age 70½, retired minimum distributions (RMDs) kick in, so if you’re retired at age 62, for example, take some money out then— this will lessen the impact of larger distributions later on.

A final tip for those in their 60s: You may want to withdraw money earlier than you think. If the bulk of your money is in qualified retirement plans or IRAs, most of the money you’ll receive in retirement is taxable—you can even bump yourself into a higher tax

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

This article was written by/ for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Carl M. Trevisan, Managing DirectorInvestments and Stephen M. Bearce, First Vice PresidentInvestments in Alexandria, VA at 800-247-8602.

Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOT BANKGUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE

© 2017 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

May 2018 | 5

BUSINESS PROFILE

BOB TAGERT

The Bittersweet Garden ~ The Plains ~

W

ith the coming of spring and everyone’s thoughts turning to the outdoors, we thought it proper to write about a store that has inventory that has your garden in mind. After 30 years of delivering Old Town Criers to The Plains, Virginia, I thought it time to write about the Bittersweet Garden shop. I met with store manager Mark Alvarez on a cool spring morning and took a tour.

This is not a garden center like you may find in the urban areas or a mini-Merrifield Gardens but rather a small specialty store offering a variety of garden antiques, fine statuary and accessories for the home and garden. They also stock seasonal plants and floral design supplies. Intimate is a good word to describe this store.

Bittersweet began in The Plains in 1996 as a compliment to Mark and Nicole Seiss’s landscaping business. Mark and Nicole, who is Mark’s sister, convinced her architect brother to run the store for them. Bittersweet has been an integral part of the small town of The Plains ever since.

“We are pretty busy from spring to Christmas,” Alvarez tells me. “As spring turns into summer, the action out here picks up,” he says. “With the farmers market, polo, and steeple chase races, the people begin to arrive.” Although the majority of their clients are locals, with the influx of folks driving through this quaint little burg, business has a way of increasing during the high seasons.

Mere words cannot describe the eclectic

BUSINESS PROFILE > PAGE 7

6 | May 2018

Old Town Crier

BUSINESS PROFILE | FROM PAGE 6

inventory in and around this this fun store. I am hoping that the photos accompanying this column are literally worth a “thousand” of them. You can find everything from high end scented candles and note cards to regal statuary fit to adorn the entrance to an estate. If you are a collector of frog, bunny, fox or pig paraphernalia – or know someone who is – this is the place for you.

“I like helping our clients pick out what they might need,” he says.” With my architectural background I can help by using my sense of scale.” If you come and shop bring a proper vehicle as they do not deliver heavy pieces.

“We have never had a problem loading people up,” Alvarez says.

The land scape business, called Land Designs LLC, places an emphasis on local work with a goal of understated elegance.

Their pieces in the store

mostly come from Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania with the bronze and lead pieces coming from England.

Bittersweet is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm and by appointment on Monday and Tuesday. Make an afternoon of it and take a trip to The Plains. Besides Bittersweet there are a few other shops, some nice restaurants and a fun coffee shop not to mention it is on the way to several great wineries.

FACETIME WITH HISTORY: DOLLEY MADISON May 13th - 4 p.m.

Admission: free for mothers; $5 for all other adults; $3 children ages 5-12 Gadsby’s Tavern Museum 134 N. Royal St. 703-746-4242 www.alexandriava.gov/gadsbystavern Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is pleased to offer free tours on Mother’s Day for all visiting mothers! Treat Mom to a tour of the historic tavern and City Hotel made famous by John Gadsby. Notable visitors (other than your beloved Mother) include George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. As part of the second Sunday Facetime series, guests will meet Dolley Madison as they journey through the tavern, included with admission. Selfguided tours available anytime. Guided tours at 2 and 4 p.m.

SOLDIER-LED TOURS OF FORT WARD FOR ARMED FORCES DAY May 19th - 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Admission: Free; donations welcome Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site 4301 W. Braddock Rd. 703-746-4848 www.alexandriava.gov/fortward An interpreter portraying a Union soldier will discuss the construction and history of Fort Ward and army life in the Defenses of Washington. Tours are 90

Old Town Crier

minutes each and begin in the museum.

CIVIL WAR FIREFIGHTING WALKING TOUR May 19th - 1-3 p.m.

Admission: $6 for adults; $4 ages 10-17 Friendship Firehouse Museum 107 S. Alfred St. 703-746-4994 www.alexandriava.gov When Virginia joined the Confederacy, Union troops occupied Alexandria and most municipal functions were assumed by the U.S. Army. The “We’ve Been Burned: Alexandria Firefighters during the Civil War” walking tour explores firefighting during the occupation. How were volunteer fire companies treated

by Federal authorities? Were firefighters allowed out after curfew? What happened to the firehouses? These questions will be answered as participants visit sites of four of the five fire houses, and learn what happened if there was a fire. For age 10 and older.

restoring them in honor of World War I veterans. As part of the World War I Centennial Commemoration, see how the museum looked under the care of the American Legion and hear about the contributions Post #24 still makes to the City of Alexandria. Whether its 1929 or 2018, home or abroad, these men and women embody the idea of service.

LECTURE: RIGHT HAND MAN? ALEXANDER HAMILTON’S RELATIONSHIP WITH GEORGE WASHINGTON: THE MUSICAL VS. THE REALITY May 31st at 7:30 p.m.

Admission: $12 per person; $10 for Society members and volunteers Gadsby’s Tavern Museum 134 N. Royal St. 703-746-4242 www.alexandriava.gov/gadsbystavern

Admission: $5 per adult Gadsby’s Tavern Museum 134 N. Royal St. 703-746-4242 www.alexandriava.gov/gadsbystavern

Professor Peter Henriques contends the collaboration between George Washington and Alexander Hamilton was the most important in the founding of our nation. His lecture will address the nature of their relationship, what caused Hamilton to resign from Washington’s staff during the War and how did Washington respond? He will also answer this burning question: How accurate is the portrayal of their relationship in the musical, Hamilton?

In 1929, the newly formed American Legion Post #24 purchased the buildings now known as Gadsby’s Tavern Museum,

Find more spring events at www. visitalexandriava.com/spring.

EXHIBIT OPENING: A LIVING MEMORIAL: HONORING OUR VETERANS May 26th-28th

• Serving Alexandria for over 17 years • Shoe & Luggage Repair • New Luggage

824 King Street Old Town Alexandria, Virginia 703.299.0655 Mon-Fri 7:30 am-7 pm • Sat 9 am-5 pm

THE BITTERSWEET GARDEN 6472 MAIN STREET THE PLAINS, VA 540-253-5700 THEBITTERSWEETGARDEN.COM

BUSINESS PROFILE | FROM PAGE 3

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May 2018 | 7

Brandywine residents since 2014

BRANDYWINE LIVING...

because we still do what we wanna do

OPENING SOON! Call Samantha or Susan at 703.940.3300 5550 Cardinal Place (next to Cameron Station) Alexandria, VA 22304 | www.Brandycare.com

8 | May 2018

Old Town Crier

THE LAST WORD

MIRIAM R. KRAMER

A Higher Loyalty

I

n his fascinating memoir and treatise on leadership, A Higher Loyalty, former FBI Director James Comey discusses his trajectory in government service up until he unwillingly became a political lightning rod during and after the most bitterly contested and partisan presidential election in modern American politics.

This work is provocative, substantial, and well worth a reader’s time. She/He gets to know him personally on a philosophical level.

Comey became one of the best-known names in America before the 2016 elections, when he announced in late October that the FBI was re-opening an investigation into Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s use of a private e-mail server for classified documents. Incurring the wrath of Democrats for potentially swinging the election towards President Donald Trump, Comey then appeared before Congress in June 2017 after Trump sacked him to repudiate Trump’s leadership and call many of his statements false.

He testified that the President lied in saying that he was fired because of low morale at the FBI. Comey responded that Trump most likely sacked him because he refused to profess his loyalty to Trump and exert his influence to change the way the FBI was investigating Trump campaign officials’ potential collusion with Russia. Comey also stated that he hoped his testimony would help lead to an independent prosecutor who could investigate those possible ties, understanding that it would be highly difficult for the current Department of Justice to conduct a nonpartisan investigation under the warping influence of any leaders President Trump has endeavored to make loyal only to himself.

As a long-time DCarea resident reading A Higher Loyalty, I agreed

Old Town Crier

wholeheartedly with many of Comey’s observations.

His difficulties have been intrinsically interwoven with the very nature of our partisan political culture, which is now concentrated to a toxic intensity inside the Beltway. As a leader, how does one maintain the necessary nonpartisan distance to gather intelligence in an environment that inherently assumes that you should and will pick sides?

After endeavoring to keep one’s institution independent with difficulty under a normal presidential administration, how can one maintain that stance under an ethically challenged president whose only goal is for intelligence institutions to carry out his will? Any official navigating such treacherous currents has a formidable task at hand.

Comey effectively makes the case that he had terrible options in deciding whether to inform the public that the FBI was investigating Clinton’s e-mails, particularly when a separate investigation of former Representative Anthony Weiner uncovered a cache of hundreds of thousands of e-mails at the last minute.

He believes that he had two impossible choices that were both actions: to reveal that the FBI was investigating the e-mails as a matter of public interest and inadvertently sway the election towards Trump; or potentially delegitimize Clinton’s possible presidency while leaving the FBI open to the accusation that it had taken her side.

As an ardent institutionalist, Comey professes that his chief aim was to make the least terrible choice and do so to best preserve the FBI’s non-partisan “reservoir of public trust and credibility.” He could be best described as passionately repeating throughout the book, although not verbatim, “All I did, I did to protect the higher truths that motivate and inspire the FBI, and by extension, the

American people.”

Comey trusts that inspirational leaders have the confidence to show vulnerability by asking questions, thus displaying emotional intelligence. By extension, he believes that they seek truth from multiple angles before making decisions, however hard those truths may be to realize and absorb. The points he makes may seem selfevident, but obviously they are not.

Throughout the book, Comey cites examples of those who inspired him, from a manager at a grocery store that employed him as a teenager to lawyers and public officials he worked for on his way up the career ladder. While stating his model of ideal leadership as tough, decisive, independent but also open to suggestions, he discusses figures who helped create those ideals, along with others whom he found to display mediocre or few such abilities.

When describing his dealings with President Trump after the election, Comey judges him ethically challenged, untruthful, and unable to hear advice from any viewpoint other than his own.

He also notes the President’s multiple factual lies and verbal contradictions within the space of the monologues he heard while meeting him one on one.

After carefully taking notes on every unwanted encounter he had with President Trump both before and after his inauguration, he finds him sorely lacking in all aspects of leadership. If one believes Comey’s account, it seems evident that there was no way for President Trump to accept him as an independent entity when one of the president’s goals was to bend the FBI to his will and attempt to make his potential PR and legal problems go away.

As a writer Comey carefully points out details, slowly builds his case, and repeatedly restates

his ideas to hammer them home. His attention to precise note-taking after his meetings with President Trump testifies to his legal background and understanding of the unstable environment in which he was operating. He also constantly invites the reader into his point of view, saying that “reasonable people” or “fairminded people” or “thoughtful people” can disagree or look at his decisions from other angles, doing his best to establish his own integrity.

Comey fiercely declares that he has endeavored to achieve an ideal of the FBI antithetical to that of former Director J. Edgar Hoover, who meddled illegally in politics and played kingmaker under eight presidents. In helping to re-create the FBI’s mission statement to match his employees’ purpose, Comey put into place his goals for the FBI to “protect the American people and uphold the Constitution of the United States” with no regard to party loyalties. He proclaims here that the FBI must hold to the higher purpose of protecting and enriching the United States and its citizens while hewing only to the truths to be found in the intelligence it gathers, rather than their political implications.

After a concentrated period thinking about the

author’s arguments, the reader may have to take a break from Comey’s intense Boy Scout barrage of principles, standards, and morals. They can feel overwhelming. Yet he seems very credible, and as a reader, I exit this work inspired.

His earnestness, probity and good intentions ring true. What he has to offer is what many of us desperately need right now: optimism and inspiration that ordinary citizens who are becoming more engaged with positively shaping their world will proclaim their truths in the face of top-down and socialmedia promoted lies, thus upholding more positive values and inclusive voices.

In the end, my favorite part of Comey’s book is his chapter on “The Washington Listen” and how it relates to leadership.

Many of us involved in the Washington, DC political arena have sat through mind-numbing conferences, luncheon meetings, and board meetings in which everyone speaks at each other with little real communication. While tuning out exists everywhere, I noticed “The Washington Listen” immediately when I began work in DC after college.

Comey describes listening in DC as a period of static silence in which someone else speaks before you say what you were THE LAST WORK > PAGE 13

May 2018 | 9

HIGH NOTES

RON POWERS

W

ith ‘Sukiyaki’, his latest release, G.H Hat taps into the melodic beauty of the only Japanese song to ever make it to the #1 Chart position in the US (1963). Modernized, for a new generation, this epic melody becomes a pop/dance classic that from the 2000’s perspective is even better than the original.

And some of you baby boomers might like it better too.

G.H. Hat seems to be doing everything right as an artist right now. His last single release “I Got a Problem (I Wonder...)” [feat. Mickey Shiloh] made its way to Billboard’s Dance Club Songs (Top 50) chart for ten weeks, peaking at #16. The release also doubled charted on Billboard’s Hot Singles Song Sales for a whopping 7 weeks, reaching #5 at its greatest moment. Adding to an already impressive journey, all of this comes after Hat originally put out an immense 290 releases under the classical genre, before deciding to venture over into the world of EDM. As it turns out, this was a strong decision – we see him going from strength to strength with his new approach to creativity.

Things look set to keep getting better.

This release is a concise EP showcasing the same song under three different spotlights

10 | May 2018

G.H. Hat – Sukiyaki EP Review

– though this is part of a larger, 10 track album of remixes that further explore the true essence of the 2000s with tracks by Grammy nominated Ralphi Rosario and the very popular Dinaire+Bissen.

The first recording on this shorter project features the stunning vocals of Alina Renae.

The track builds up from a simple piano part, a gathering of synths, and an underlying vibrant energy on the verge of bursting its banks, to something that is infectiously uplifting and set to take the summer months by storm.

G.H. Hat brings together a number of skills or traits that really showcase an artist with an unquestionable awareness of what works in music, as well as an unquenchable thirst to craft effective sources of escapism for all who witness his work.

‘Sukiyaki’ is a beautiful song, the beat presents the nostalgic energy and pace of a classic dance-pop single. The setup, the progression, the detail – everything works hard to leave its mark, supporting and complimenting the leading voice and the lyrical concept beautifully, giving this a totally addictive quality.

The second track on the

project is the aptly titled the ‘Not So Chill Version’ of the same song. This sees an immediate transformation as a slightly more intense and manic energy comes through from the offset. A flicker of distorted guitar and a notably more tribal beat take the reins and craft around you something that feels completely fresh, even when heard directly after the opener. The mood of the music leans in a different direction, perhaps reaching out to a more alternative audience, though at its core you still have the now familiar vocal feature and melody leading the way through this creative arena of music. Creative is the key word; the set-up of this piece is incomparable – it follows its own rules and that gives it a refreshing touch of character and individuality. The final few moments are beautiful.

Bringing the EP to a close is a purely instrumental version of the same song. Again, this reaches out from a different angle, perhaps connecting more intensely with fans of rock or with guitarists who find themselves drawn to the seductive sound of an electric guitar melody. This simple

change really gives the track a whole new appearance, something of a Santana edge emerges to drive the song’s sentiment and energy in a beautifully captivating way.

The tone is lower than that of the vocalist, the melody meanders a little more freely, so it feels like an entirely different version. In addition to this, the electric guitar sound intertwined with the thickness and colour of the EDM soundscape makes for something totally fresh and surprisingly entrancing.

After the two-minute mark, things really start to evolve in a stunning way. The sound gathers momentum and brings with it a level of intensity that most will find completely energizing. It’s easy to listen more than a few times over.

“Sukiyaki”, coming on the heels of “I Got a Problem (I Wonder…)”, solidifies that G.H. Hat is no “one-hit-wonder”.

Things look set to simply soar higher and higher for G.H. Hat. It’s exciting to think what the future may hold.

You can hear his music on Spotify, Google, Tidal and any of the major stores. Visit his website at www.GHHAT.com.

Ron Powers, is a freelance, multigenre A&R executive for Indie Labels and is constantly searching for and writing about his new hot music discoveries.

Old Town Crier

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Annapolis, MD bayblues.org May 24 – 27 Delfest Allegany County Fairgrounds Cumberland, MD delfest.com May 24-27 Rooster Walk Pop’s Farm Axton, Virginia, VA roosterwalk.com May 31 - June 2 Graves Mountain Festival of Music Graves Mountain Lodge Syria, VA

gravesmountain.com/ events-calendar/ festival-of-music/ May 31 - June 2 Mountain Music Festival ACE ADVENTURE RESORT New River Gorge, WV aceraft.com/event/ annual-mountainmusic-festival/ June 14 – 17 Firefly Music Festival Dover International Speedway Dover, DE fireflyfestival.com

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May 2018 | 11

GALLERY BEAT

F. LENNOX CAMPELLO

Where is the DC Museum of Art?

AU Museum Katzen

T

Hirschorn Museum 12 | May 2018

hose of you who are regular readers of this column know that one of my constant concerns is the poor relationship between most capital area museum area curators and VA/ DC/MD area artists, and the rarity of interest by most DC area museum professionals in their own city’s art scene and artists.

Like anything, there are notable, but rare, exceptions, and Jack Rasmussen at American University’s Katzen Art Museum is an important and critical exception and through the Alper Initiative, the Katzen is ensuring that area artists get the exposure that sometimes only a museum show can deliver.

The generous funding that Ms. Carol Trawick delivers through the Trawick and the Bethesda Painting Awards have also highlighted multiple area artists. And one of the unexpected benefits of the Trawick Prize and the Bethesda Painting Awards has been that they have “forced” the hired DC, VA and MD museum professionals and curators to look at the work of artists from the region; some amazing success stories have spawned from that exposure. Area artists should be very grateful to Ms. Trawick for all that she has done and continues to do for the fine arts around the capital region.

But getting back on subject and generally speaking, most of the DC area museum curators and directors still find it easier to catch a flight to another city to look at an emerging artist’s work from that city, than to take a cab to a DC area artist’s studio or visit a local gallery.

Seriously, when was the last time that a curator from the Hirshhorn visited a local artist’s studio – I cannot recall a single time, but I could be wrong. I’ve been wrong before… once in 1981.

I think part of this is because, again with an exception here and GALLERY BEAT > PAGE 13

Old Town Crier

GALLERY BEAT | FROM PAGE 12

there, most of these curators came from other parts of the nation and overseas, and they tend to bring their regional familiarities with them, rather than discover new ones (it takes a lot of work). They are also part of a curatorial scene where little risk is taken, and the herd mentality reigns supreme.

As a result, one can count in one hand the number of artists (local or otherwise) who have had their first ever museum show (or any museum show) in a DC area museum. And yet, even major museums (such as the Whitney in New York) have given artists their first museum solos, although this is becoming rarer and rarer.

Example: I know that I wasn’t the only one amazed to find out that the Corcoran’s Sam Gilliam retro over a decade ago was the first solo museum show (at the tail end of his career) by arguably DC’s best-known painter. And Gilliam’s career received a nuclear boost unlike anyone had seen in these neck

THE LAST WORD | FROM PAGE 9

planning to say all along. Real listening is also, as he sees it, more than sitting as someone talks and simply hearing what they say. “You signal to someone, ‘I want what you have, I need to know what you know, and I want you to keep telling me the things you’re telling me’….Two good friends [listen] to each other in a way

of the swamp! A decade later, his prices and visibility have skyrocketed!

And I am sure that the fact that then Corcoran curator Jonathan Binstock’s PhD work was on Gilliam had a lot to do with the Corcoran’s decision to focus a solo on a DC area legend.

The rarity of local focus is also caused partially because of the fact that DC area museums generally tend to think of themselves as “national museums,” rather than as “city museums,” like all other major cities in the world have.

We have no Washington Museum of Art. Furthermore, because of the sad lack of coverage by the DC local media of the DC local art scene and events, museum professionals would have to spend more personal time (which they often lack) to “learn” about DC area artists and galleries, rather than learning from reading, as they do about what’s going on in NYC and LA and Miami and Seattle from the national magazines, or perhaps the coverage that those cities’ news

where each is both pushing information to the other and pulling information out of the other.”

As I think about A Higher Loyalty, real listening jumps out at me as one of the foremost ways to break down partisanship. We need to find ways to encourage it and heal the ruptures that currently prevent us from operating effectively as a country. One of my favorite quotations

media gives to their local arts.

And thus it takes an “extra” effort on the part of a DC museum curator to get his or her interest aroused on any event in the local scene. Some of it is networking (a big name museum donor requests a visit to a gallery or a studio), some of it is financial (they are paid to jury a show), and some of it is accidental (such as a curator admiring the work of a “new” artist in a LA gallery only to be told that the artist is a DC artist); this actually happened.

In fact, all of these have happened in my experience.

The next time that any of you are at a panel involving a local museum curator and they ask for audience questions, I’d like someone to ask the curator the following question: “Mr./Ms. Curator, can you quickly name for us about five contemporary artists from anywhere or five contemporary DC area artists whose work you admire and why?”

If anyone does ask, please email me the response.

Not holding my breath.

from Carl Jung comes to mind: “The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances: if there is any reaction, both are transformed.” If we take this imperative to not only argue but to also listen to one another from the grassroots up, our American ideal of E pluribus unum would become not just an ever-shining ideal, but also a real-world twenty-first-century possibility.

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Old Town Crier

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May 2018 | 13

MELINDA MYERS

URBAN GARDEN

The Art of

GARDENING

M

aking a few changes in your garden care can yield great benefits. Less time and water wasted means more time

for you to relax or entertain friends and family in your beautiful landscape. Water is critical throughout the life of a plant, but deciding when and how much water to provide each plant can be a bit overwhelming. Make this task easier and conserve moisture with these simple strategies.

Start by matching plants to your growing conditions.

Selecting plants suited to your climate, soil moisture and average rainfall means healthier, better-looking plants and productive gardens with less supplemental water.

Incorporate organic matter such as compost into the soil prior to planting.

This helps the soil more efficiently absorb rainfall and irrigation water.

Less runoff means less water wasted.

Adding organic matter also increases the ability of fast-draining soil to hold moisture, extending the time between watering.

Mulch the soil with organic materials such as shredded leaves, evergreen needles or woodchips.

Mulching helps conserve moisture while suppressing

14 | May 2018

weeds and improving the soil as it decomposes.

Plus, you’ll be recycling landscape trimmings back into the landscape and the environment. It’s green gardening!

There will still be times you need to lend nature a hand. Sprouting seeds, young seedlings and new transplants need consistent moisture to grow and establish a root system. Most annual flowers and vegetables also need consistent moisture throughout the season.

Newly planted perennials, trees and shrubs also need more attention and water than established plants with deeper roots able to absorb more moisture. During extended dry periods, even established plants will need supplemental water.

Providing the right amount of water at the right time can be a challenge. Doing it efficiently to avoid wasting time or water can help ensure your gardening success.

Take the guess work out of watering with a drip irrigation system like the DIY WaterWell Irrigation System Drip Line Kit (gardeners.com). Drip irrigation systems allow you to apply water to the soil right above the plant roots, exactly where it’s needed.

Run a line next to each row of plants - or every 18” in planting beds. The water slowly seeps through the holes and into the soil below. The slow, steady flow moistens the root zone, encouraging the development of deep, drought-tolerant roots.

Just turn on the faucet, set the timer and let the irrigation system do the work. This reduces the risk of frequent, ineffective watering which leads to shallow roots growing just below the soil surface where they dry out quickly.

High temperatures or missed irrigation can stress shallow rooted plants, reducing their beauty and productivity.

The use of appropriate irrigation, mulching and organic matter can make a huge difference in the quality of your landscape – and your enjoyment of your garden!

Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio segments. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Gardener’s Supply for her expertise to write this article.

Myers’s web site is www. melindamyers.com.

Old Town Crier

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Old Town Crier

May 2018 | 15

A BIT OF HISTORY

SARAH BECKER ©2018

Woman The Entrepreneurial

A

lexandria’s good ‘ole boys rarely admit it, but much of the property upon which Alexandria was established—property north of Hunting Creek to a line approximating present-day Queen Street—was first owned by a female. Margaret Brent, an attorney and femme sole, took ownership of the land in 1654. “She was the prototype of what the nineteenth century calls the new woman,” Harper’s magazine said in 1898. Mistress Brent first asked to vote in 1648.

Women have come a long way, especially since the 1970s. “I did not set out consciously to start a revolution when I wrote The Feminine Mystique,” Betty Friedan said, “but it changed my life, as a woman and as a writer, and other women tell me it changed theirs.”

“The essence of the denigration of women is our definition as sex object,” Friedan exclaimed in 1969. “To confront our inequality, therefore, we must confront both society’s denigration of us in these terms and own self-denigration as people. Am I saying

that women must be liberated from sex? No. I am saying that sex will only be liberated to be a human dialogue, sex will only cease to be a sniggering, dirty joke, and an obsession in this society, when women become active determining people….”

In this the era of #MeToo and #TimesUp, I ask. Who is Mrs. Lydia E. Pinkham, the sloganeer who said “The Health of Women is the Hope of the Race?” She was a wife, mother and entrepreneur, a 19th century woman with a 21st century success story.

Lydia’s business was born of husband, Isaac’s 1873 financial ruin.

Mrs. Lydia E. Pinkham, of Lynn, Massassachusetts, was among the first to market over-the-counter medicines to menstruating and menopausal women.

Born in 1819 her home based, family owned firm —The Lydia E. Pinkham Medicine Co.—was only recently sold.

Pinkham’s patented products were vended door to door; then later wholesaled to druggists like Alexandria’s E.S. Leadbeater & Bro. “Am I saying that women have to be liberated from men?” Friedan continued, “That men are the enemy?

No. I am saying the men will only be truly liberated to love women and to be fully themselves when women are liberated to have a full say in

the decisions of their lives and their society.”

Pinkham embraced the sisterhood, established a market niche, and became a material symbol of womanhood. Like Martha Stewart and Oprah Winfrey, her persona was synonymous with brand. “Oh we’ll sing of Lydia Pinkham/And her love for the human race/How she sells her vegetable compound/ And the papers publish her face.” Pinkham’s Vegetable Compound was promoted as “a Positive Cure For all those painful Complaints and Weaknesses so common to our best female population.”

How does a woman develop such a business plan? For Washington Post publisher Katharine Graham the answer was “my too-great passion for order and routine.” Said Graham in her autobiography Personal History, “When I look back over my long life, if there is one thing that leaps out at me it is the role of luck and chance in our lives.

From that particular string of accidental happenings all the rest followed.”

Oprah Winfrey defines luck as the moment when preparedness and opportunity meet. If true, then today’s woman is lucky to be entitled.

Mary Katherine Goddard, respected Revolutionary War printer and postmistress published the first printed copies of the July 4, 1776

Declaration of Independence.

In 1859 Martha Coston developed a superior system of pyrotechnic night-signals.

The Union Navy, at war from 1861 to 1865 was forever grateful she had flares.

“I regret the trifling narrow contracted Education of the Females of my own country,” Abigail Adams wrote husband John in 1778. “You need not be told how much female education is neglected, nor how fashionable it has been to ridicule Female learning.”

Twenty-first century professional women can diagnose disease, design a car, and or manage a Fortune 500 company. The modern woman is no longer at home, always preparing for the family meal. She is, at the very least, intellectually selfsufficient. Today’s woman now surpasses man in educational attainment.

“Am I saying that women must be liberated from motherhood?” Friedan asked. “No. I am saying that motherhood will only be a joyous and responsible human act when women are free to make, with full conscious choice and full human responsibility, the decisions to become mothers. Then and only then will they be able to embrace motherhood without conflict…not just as breeding receptacles, but as people for whom motherhood is a freely A BIT OF HISTORY > PAGE 17

From Top: Betty Friedan; Lydia Pinkham; Elizabeth Keckley; Maggie Lena Walker 16 | May 2018

Old Town Crier

A BIT OF HISTORY | FROM PAGE 16

chosen part of life, freely celebrated while it lasts….”

Happy Mother’s Day to all!

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines feminism, 2017’s most researched word, as the “belief in the social, political and economic equality of the sexes. The movement organized around this belief.”

“The real sexual revolution is the emergence of women from passivity, from the point where they are the easiest victims for all the seductions, the waste, the worshipping of false gods in our affluent society, to full self-determination and full dignity,” Friedan explained.

“And it is the emergence of men from the stage where they are inadvertent brutes and masters to sensitive and complete humanity.” Harvey Weinstein has yet to emerge from therapy.

It is surprising how few of today’s women have broken, or want to break the glass ceiling. Have there been too few corporate role models, too few CEOs or CFOs to guide them? Or is it because women now can

achieve greater professional success—more visibility and flexibility—as entrepreneurs?

New economy leader Meg Whitman was the first woman to head an e-commerce site, the online auction company eBay, Inc. In 2012, there were 9.9 million women owned businesses in the United States. These businesses employed 8.4 million individuals; generated $453 billion in payroll and $1.4 trillion in sales. More than three-quarters of women business owners are in the service and trade industry: restaurants, physicians’ offices, and management, scientific and technical consulting.

Businesses, equally coowned by women and men, accounted for another $1.1 trillion in sales.

Nineteenth century dressmaker Elizabeth Keckley was a former slave who became an expert designer, bought her freedom and later sewed for First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln. Today Old Town Alexandria touts its female driven Boutique District, a mix of more than 30 retail stores including Stitch and Fibre Space. Carol

Supplee’s well-considered, nationally ranked Imagine Artwear opened its door in 1988.

“Women’s voices are finally being heard aloud,” Friedan concluded, “saying it the way it is…in its new political sense as part of the unfinished revolution….”

Financier Hetty Green (1834-1916) an enterprising Wall Street investor earned a reputation as the “richest woman in the world.”

Richmond, Virginia’s Maggie Lena Walker (1867-1934) turned a small African American benevolent society into a thriving bank and became America’s first black bank president. Actress and movie producer Mary Pickford (1892-1972) cofounded United Artists with Douglas Fairbanks, Charlie Chaplin, and D.W. Griffith.

Worthy women all!

A liberated woman is one who has the ability, the willingness and the courage to make informed life choices, to confidently control her destiny. Women still earn less than men and as presently calculated the gender pay gap will not close until 2039.

Those who work full time,

year round earn 80 cents for every dollar paid to men.

Women of color even less.

Aircraft manufacturer Olive Ann Beech (1903-1993) never learned to fly an airplane yet she successfully led Beech Aircraft into the space age.

Sarah Becker started writing for The Economist while a graduate student in England. Similar publications followed. She joined the Crier in 1996 while serving on the Alexandria Convention Haircuts $15 Shampoo, Cut & Blow Dry $18 (extra charge for long hair) Scissors Cut $17+up

and Visitors Association Board.

Her interest in antiquities began as a World Bank hire, with Indonesia’s need to generate hard currency. Balinese history, i.e. tourism provided the means.

The New York Times describes Becker’s book, Off Your Duffs & Up the Assets, as “a blueprint for thousands of nonprofit managers.” A former museum director, SLAM’s saving grace Sarah received Alexandria’s Salute to Women Award in 2007. Email: abitofhistory53@ gmail.com

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POINTS ON PETS

DAVE REYNOLDS

BORED POOCH?

Consider Doggy Daycare

I

f you occasionally come home after work and find your dog has chewed on some clothing or furniture, has pulled up some carpeting, or pulled the drapes down, your dog-child might just be bored. For dogs, as with humans, boredom can sometimes breed destructive tendencies.

But dogs don’t really mean to cause any level of destruction. They aren’t retaliating for your having left them alone. They’re just seeking stimulation. To a dog stuck indoors with little to do, rooting through garbage, running around the house, or chewing anything available are attempts at selfstimulation. For those fenced or chained outside, digging, eating grass, and incessant barking also work to relieve boredom. Dogs, like humans, also combat boredom by eating. Indeed, boredom is a main culprit of obesity in both our species.

Some dogs destroy things

not because they’re bored, but because they fear being separated from the rest of the pack – meaning you, their owner. A dog who begins to destroy things mere minutes after they are left alone is most likely exhibiting separation anxiety, not boredom.

Boredom can take hours to develop. Whereas boredom is a state of under-stimulation, anxiety is a matter of overstimulation. It’s as if your dog is overwhelmed with the thought you’re never coming back.

In general, spayed and neutered dogs are less prone to boredom than those that aren’t. And low energy dogs such as basset hounds and bulldogs are less easily bored than high energy huskies, collies, and terriers.

Aside from breed temperament, boredom is less likely to develop in dogs exposed to social and/or mentally engaging experiences that entail a degree of control (from the

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18 | May 2018

dog’s perspective) and/or regularity. For example, a dog that is walked when it barks once or twice at the front door, or who is regularly walked three times a day at around the same time, is less likely to become bored than one who isn’t.

One option growing in popularity and availability are doggy daycare centers. Similar to daycare for children, there appear to be two options. The first franchise facilities such as VCA’s CampBowWow, Dogtopia, and Central Barks.

You can drop off your dog (or have them picked up), and they spend the day with other dogs. Some facilities will ensure your dog is grouped with those of a similar size and temperament to avoid the likelihood of injury or stress.

At Dogtopia in Alexandria, one day’s care costs $38. But if you buy a monthly unlimited pass you can get that down to about $18 a day.

The second daycare option is to select one from among a

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large association of individual sitters and walkers (Rover).

These sitters will either keep your dog in their home while you are at work or on vacation, or come to yours.

In the Alexandria area, prices for a small, adult dog up to 15 lbs. started at: $20 for a day’s care; $15 for a walk; $14 for an in-home visit; and $30 for in-your-home overnight care; and $30 for boarding in the sitter’s home.

One apparent advantage of using an established company or franchise to care for your pooch is they are more likely to provide reimbursement for any vet bills that might come up because of an accident involving your dog while under their care. But it’s important to read the fine print in any contract you sign.

Also, when booking with Rover, their sitters have had a background check (conducted by a different company) consisting of at least verifying that their name, address, and social security number match.

It also includes checking the sex offender registry and terrorist watch list.

Depending on your comfort level with having a stranger care for your dog, it’s important to consider any verifiable training or certification of the individual or facility. Unlike childcare, there are few regulations governing the certification of facilities or the training of individuals. So imagine the worst case scenario: What if my dog gets bit or cut? And then work with whomever you are considering to walk you through how they would respond and note where that’s stated in your contract.

For those who may not be able to afford walkers, sitters, or all-day care, some alternatives include adopting another dog. While this communal aspect may decrease the likelihood of boredom, two dogs can also get bored together.

POINTS ON PETS > PAGE 19

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Old Town Crier

PETS OF THE MONTH

POINTS ON PETS FROM PAGE 18

STANLEY

Boxer, Neutered male, 6 years old

ANNIE

Domestic Shorthair, Orange/ White Tabby, Spayed Female, 3 years old

Whether you have one or more dogs, it’s important to enrich their environment if you cannot afford day or shorter term care. Toys are one way to enrich the home.

It’s recommended to have various toys with different levels of chew-ability. Those that squeak or interact

appear more enticing. It’s also important to regularly swap out the toy so your dog doesn’t get bored with it. Some toys are capable of housing the dog’s food, which they then have to work out in order to eat. This is an option in lieu of open bowl feeding.

Whatever toys are purchased, it’s important to observe your dog using it to ensure it is

safe; not too hard so as to cause tooth damage, and not too soft as to come apart in a few hours or days.

Dave Reynolds, PhD, is a military psychologist. He has adopted two cats with medical needs from KSC, Tutu, who suffered from panleukopenia, and Ms. Sissy, who is diabetic.

Resources Brown, R. G. (1989). Dealing with canine obesity. Canadian Veterinary Journal, 30(12): 973-975.

McMillan, F. D. (2002). Development of a mental wellness program for animals. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 220(7): 965-972.

Turner, D. C. (1997). Treating canine and feline behaviour problems and advising clients.

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 52(3-4): 199-204.

CRASH AND SQUIRT

Weiss, E., Mohan-Gibbons, H., & Zawistowski (YEAR). Animal Behavior for Shelter Veterinarians and Staff. Ames, IA: John Wiley & Sons.

Green Turtles, Females, 7 years old

Stanley has the cutest little tail and a goofy grin that makes him stand out in the crowd. Although not a fan of other dogs, this country boy LOVES people! He adores pets and affection from his people. And… his favorite people give him treats of course, especially pup-accinos (whipped cream)! Stanley recently went on a field trip with some of his favorite volunteers, they stopped at The Dog Park for treats, had lunch at District Taco, and went for a stroll in Belle Haven Park. It was a fun day for Stanley to make new friends, share some tacos, and practice his many new tricks. Stanley’s favorite part was riding in the car and sticking his head out the window with his floppy ears dancing in the wind! If you are looking for a boxer boy to melt your heart and keep you laughing, Stanley is the handsome boy for you! **Thanks to a generous donor, my adoption fees have been paid!** Annie is currently staying in our VIP suite! This Very Important Purr has all of the makings of an amazing feline! Annie loves affection from her people and absolutely adores chin scratches. Ear scratches are great too! When

she isn’t soaking up the love, Annie can be found exploring and rolling around in catnip like it’s a pile of dollar bills. She is the silliest little lady! As light-hearted and giggle inducing as Annie can be, she would prefer a calm, adults only home where she can “zen” out and recharge. Annie has lived with children and other animals before, but this time around she would like to be your one and only love bug. Her bubbly, adorable self really shines through when she can relax and soak up all of the affection a person can give. Annie has won the hearts of all of the AWLA staff and volunteers, she cannot wait to steal your heart as well!

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May 2018 | 19

CARIBBEAN CONNECTION JEFF MCCORD

McCords Abode

Among the Privileged Few No Longer

F

or eight-and-a-half years my family has been among the relatively few “Continentals” to live on St. John. With more than 60 percent of the land a national park and much of the remaining terrain too steep or inaccessible to develop, the island can only accommodate a handful of full-time residents: about 4,500 at last count.

During our time on-island, we were privileged to be part of both the Coral Bay sailing and Virgin Islands National Park communities. We were fortunate to have sold our sailboat well before Hurricane Irma decimated the fleet.

And, after a bitter sweet and hectic three months of stormdamage repair and offering our Gifft Hill home on the real estate market, we found the perfect buyer in a long-time St. Johnian who values our lush tropical plants and trees and the bird habitat they afford.

To islanders, the progress made in the seven plus months since the apocalyptic visit by two category five hurricanes (Irma and

20 | May 2018

Maria) is encouraging.

Long-time residents are accustomed to making do in a world characterized by local government dysfunction and frequent outages of power produced by a utility that was managerially challenged even before the storms. Bald tired automobiles held together with wire and duct tape are taken for granted by hearty Virgin Islanders now accustomed to shortages of parts and tires.

People mostly accept the high prices of essential items caused in-part by inexplicable customs duties levied upon products “imported” from other parts of the United States.

Overcoming hardship breeds a special camaraderie and esprit d’ corps among locals that most visitors who come for the spectacularly beautiful scenery and beaches cannot comprehend. Tourists are often unaware of property managers’ herculean efforts to maintain, prepare, provision, service private generators and fill depleted water cisterns of accommodations. The same can be said for owners of car rental

McCords Wheels businesses who somehow keep fleets of jeeps running despite pot holed, post-storm roads on which broken glass and nails are not uncommon.

I salute Virgin Island property and business owners with the grit and determination to “tough out” these hard times to prepare for better days ahead.

There are many examples. In a past column, I wrote about the owner-operator of Cruz Bay based St. John Ice and Water Co. who continues to produce clean, pure desperately needed products, even as demolition of the heavily damaged “Lumber Yard” buildings housing his plant proceeds. He was open every day throughout the storms and is determined to remain open every hour until the structure is pulled down around him.

A similar determination can be seen in Coral Bay where it’s hard to reconcile the ghastly heaps of debris and untouched, storm ravaged buildings with undiminished community spirit and optimism.

Consider the example of Colin Hanson who recently got married, bought two power boats to charter and is restoring the locally famous S/V Breath on which he resides

in Coral Harbor. My family and I first met Colin when he was the young captain of the Breath - built and then still owned by legendary sailor Peter Muilenberg. A classic 42 foot gaff-rigged ketch, the boat was hand crafted on a Coral Bay beach by Peter and friends more than 30 years ago. It remains the largest boat built on St. John in modern times.

Sadly, ill-health led Peter and his family to sell the Breath to another person and move to the mainland. Captain Colin Hanson focused his energies on his own boat, a wooden schooner named Buxom. In the intervening years, the Breath was mostly idle at her mooring until Irma threw her ashore on the rocks. Buxom sank and was beyond salvage.

In the weeks following the storms, Colin and his girl friend moved to the mainland and got married. In a burst of faith and vision, they moved back to Coral Bay, acquired the wreck of the Breath, patched an eight foot long gash in her hull and have been working to restore her ever since. In the spirit of the islands, he plans to replace her shattered mizzen mast with a discarded, wooden electric pole that he will mill to fit by hand.

We last saw Colin and his wife Leah when they visited our house to pick over household goods we couldn’t move back with us to Virginia. I was pleased he could use a solar panel on Breath’s deck and my CARIBBEAN CONNECTION > PAGE 21

Old Town Crier

CARRIBEAN CONNECTION FROM PAGE 20

wife Martha was delighted Leah could use a variety of dishes, fabrics and other supplies. They loaded them into a suitably battered SUV with missing side windows and a variety of dents and gashes.

Before Irma, Colin had parked the car for safety on top of Bordeaux Mountain. After the storm, he found it had been blown on top of a nearby destroyed restaurant. They were able to get it down and running and back to Coral Bay where it was stolen, but later recovered.

There are hundreds of other stories of Virgin Islanders’ quiet courage and faith. Tragically, though, many families have had to move in search of functioning schools and health care services. Seven months following the storms, it is shocking to see still shattered schools and inadequate health facilities. Even before the storms, the V.I. hospitals had lost accreditation.

Returning from islands of diminished resources and expectations to a land of cheap electricity available on demand and abundant clean, fresh water was a bit jarring.

k

The well maintained roads, efficient government service, overstocked supermarkets and tidy towns Virginians take for granted are scarce in America’s Caribbean island territories.

Jeffrey R. McCord is a free-lance journalist whose work has appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Gannett newspapers and Truthout.org, among other publications. For more than 20 years he’s called Northern Virginia home. Jeff is the author of two fact-based Caribbean novels available on Amazon.com: “Undocumented Visitors in a Pirate Sea,” a quarter-finalist in the 2014

Amazon Breakthrough Novel contest; and, “Santa Anna’s Gold in a Pirate Sea,” a finalist in the 2016 Next Generation Indie Book contest.

He now divides his time between Virginia and St. John, USVI. Publishers Note: We regret that this will be Jeff ’s last contribution to the Caribbean Connection since he has moved back to the Commonwealth.

We are hoping to use his writing talents in other areas. We are in search of an “on-island” contributor and look forward to introducing you all next month.

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MYSTERY READING AT ITS BEST

by Virginia author Jeffrey Roswell McCord

CARIBBEAN MYSTERY AND INTRIGUE A dead Marine washed ashore on a Caribbean island leads investigators to otherworldly perpetrators in historic pirate waters and high level abuses in Washington. An intrepid maritime historian working the case for U.S. Naval Intelligence discovers a 60-year record of extraterrestrial activity in the Caribbean basin. History and national security politics meet science fiction in this mystery based on exhaustive factual research and informed conjecture.

CARIBBEAN hISToRY AND ADvENTURE Where did the villain General Santa Anna of Alamo infamy retire? Is time travel possible?

What was it like on the ground in the worst hurricane of the 19th century? Can a band of rogue sailors from Coral Bay, St. John, defeat ruthless corporate mercenaries? These questions and more are answered in Jeffrey Roswell McCord’s new fact-based novel “Santa Anna’s Gold in a Pirate Sea.”

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May 2018 | 21

FROM THE BAY …

SUSAN SEIFRIED

More Than a Pretty Picture Public Art in Annapolis

S

treet art, murals, art installations and photography do more than beautify downtown Annapolis.

In many instances, they add meaning and purpose to young lives. Individuals who scratch below the surface of the City’s vibrant public art’s scene soon discover that what goes on behind the scenes in the planning and execution stages is often as impressive as the finished product. Closer inspection reveals a host of individuals who are sharing their talents, vision and enthusiasm to help unlock doors for underserved populations and build cultural bridges around the world.

What follows is a brief introduction to some of the many Annapolis artists and art

enthusiasts who are giving back to the community – not only by creating beautiful works of art and inspiration, but by enlisting the help of others and showing them how they can do the same.

Kirsten Elstner Photographer Kirsten Elstner launched VisionWork shops in Annapolis in 2001.

After working primarily for the New York Times, the International Red Cross and as a photography assistant for National Geographic, she decided to put cameras into the hands of the individuals whose lives she was trying to document and let them tell their own stories. With offices 22 | May 2018

at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts in Annapolis’s Arts and Entertainment District, VisionWorkshops is the creative force behind a series of photography workshops for youth from underserved communities around the world.

Alison Harbaugh Annapolis photographer Alison Harbaugh taught photography to youth from underserved areas with VisionWorkshops for about ten years before she launched her own photography workshops, “Fearless Girls Photography” in 2015.

Harbaugh owns Sugar Farm Productions, a photography and video production company that she operates out of her Art Farm storefront at 45 West Street in downtown Annapolis.

done with youth from other underserved neighborhoods, Huntington brings them into his Jahru Studio, using it as a satellite incubator for the arts projects.

Roberta Pardo Annapolis resident Roberta Pardo founded Urban Walls Brazil in 2014. Initially, she brought artists from her native country of Brazil to Annapolis to create public murals. Today’s expanded program includes artists from all over the world in an international cultural exchange. To date, Urban Walls Brazil artists have painted 12 murals in Annapolis’s Design District, and Pardo is plans to have two additional murals painted in summer 2018.

initiative, Annapolis Artwalk, to bring grand scale art to the exterior walls of buildings – using the City of Annapolis as an open-air gallery. In 2008, the nonprofit organization received a grant to install public art around the City for Annapolis’s Charter 300 celebration.

Comport calls her work community engagement art. “It’s a marriage of the architecture, where it’s located, the community, the people – their art or their input about what they envision – and my design. It’s all these things working in concert. Visual communication is about digesting the input and conveying the heart of what the communication is, without having to say a word.

One of the biggest

Sally Comport Jeff Huntington In summer 2016, Annapolis artist Jeff Huntington and his wife, Julia Gibb, created the nonprofit organization, “Future History Now,” that works with underserved youth to create street art in their communities. Former VisionWorkshops student, Newtowne 20 resident, and local community leader Deonte Ward has introduced Huntington to his neighbors so the artist can work with them to turn empty boarded up buildings into beautiful works of art. As he’s

Art at Large owner, Sally Wern Comport, has been an illustrator all her life. She began working in her father’s advertising agency at the age of 15. After working for thirty years as an illustrator, Comport created Art at Large in 2003. As the name implies, she was thinking big. She was no longer content with designing her work to fit in magazines and books and on billboards. Instead, she began creating custom illustrations for walls. “I love materials, surfaces, architecture – all of the stuff that fuels material, tangible art. I started thinking in terms of murals.”

In 2007, Comport and others launched a public arts

challenges – and the most fun – is marrying all the pieces to convey one clear message. It builds bridges between groups. People ‘get’ each other through visual communication. Much like music, it’s barrier free. It’s a visual voice. It’s the one thing I can do to help make the world a better place.”

The citywide Second Annual Annapolis Arts Week, June 1-10, will provide an introduction to the work and lives of some of the many individuals who contribute to Annapolis’s thriving arts and entertainment scene

Old Town Crier

Spring

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ROAD TRIP

Sitting Room

BOB TAGERT

Hallway

Bedroom

Indoor outdoor spa pool

The Boardwalk Plaza Hotel REHOBOTH BEACH ◊ DELAWARE

W

hile spring has been trying to push winter into a distant memory, we decided it was time to head to one of our favorite road trip destinations… the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel in Rehoboth, Delaware. Our last visit was over three years ago so we were due.

In the early 60’s the Delmarva beaches were just becoming discovered because the new Chesapeake Bay Bridge had been opened in 1952. For the first time you could drive from D.C. to the Atlantic Ocean. This is where the story of the Boardwalk Plaza begins.

The hotel and Victoria’s Restaurant are privately owned and operated and managed by the Zerby family and located on a piece of property that was once occupied by the Shirl Ann Motel, which had been in the Zerby family since the late 1950’s. The Zerby-Meade family had a dream to build a Victorianstyle property that provided its guests with the service and atmosphere of a bygone era 24 | May 2018

coupled with modern-day amenities. After years of planning, they closed the Shirl Ann Motel and built the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel. The property was completed and opened its doors to the public for the first time in late May, 1991.

When the hotel opened, the owners concerned themselves with providing a level of service that matched the award-winning design and décor. In 1992, the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel received the prestigious Four Diamonds Award from the American Automobile Association, which signifies to the traveling public that the staff of the hotel and restaurant provides a level of service that exceeds a guest’s expectations.

The hotel has won this award consecutively each year through 2018. The hotel and restaurant celebrated 25 years of business in 2016. And they haven’t missed a beat since!

This is an exceptional hotel. Think of the Grand Hotel in the movie Somewhere in Time and you will get a glimpse of the grandeur.

Although located right on the beach, great

care is taken to ensure the proper experience.

The hotel is decorated throughout in period furniture, furnishings and feel. The hallways have plush carpets appointed with button and tufted chairs and beautiful antiques. For a certain amount of serenity, the fourth floor is reserved for adults only and is accessible only for those with key cards for rooms on that level. We recommend spending the extra dollars.

When you arrive in the elegant lobby you will are greeted by the hotels two mascots…

Emro, the Sun Conure and Peanut, the African Grey Parrot. Emro is quite the social bird and is also the subject of this month’s Personality Profile.

As one would expect, the rooms are exceptional with large comfortable beds and a sitting room with a balcony. The rooms that face the boardwalk have balconies facing the ocean while the rooms on the side have a smaller balcony with a partial view of the Old Town Crier

ROAD TRIP FROM PAGE 24

ocean. The hotel recently decided to remove the minibars in each room and now leave it up to the guest to provide their own refreshment, so remember to bring what you might desire for that evening cocktail. If you forget, no worries, there is a beautiful bar adjacent to the plush Victoria Restaurant.

All along the boardwalk the hotel provides their guests with outdoor dining to evening cocktails. At the north end there is a small hot tub which is actually a part of the huge grotto spa pool located in the atrium of the hotel. The grotto is open 24/7 and off limits to minors after 8pm. Service from the bar is also available poolside and you are welcome to bring beverages from your room.

Speaking of grotto, we made the obligatory stop for the famous Grotto Pizza on the main drag of Rehoboth and about a block away from the hotel. Like a lot of the businesses today, Grotto got its start in the early 60’s and has grown to serve four states. Even though we were there way before the season opens, many of the staples at the beach were up and running – Thrashers, Dolley’s, Blue Moon, Purple Parrot, Summer House and

the list goes on.

As I mentioned at the start of this piece, spring has made a valiant attempt to push winter out. This day was 85 degrees and the town was packed with people on the board walk and some of them working very hard on their first sunburn of the year. The parking meters had not yet been uncovered so this contributed to the size of the crowd.

Many people were on the beach but none in the water and not a cloud in the sky. Winter did not go lightly!

The next morning the wind was blowing directly off the ocean at 25 knots and the air temperature had dropped to 40 degrees. It was time to go home. Those covered parking meters did make a difference however. Although only a few hearty souls ventured on to the boardwalk, the parking was filled as were the restaurants, bars and shops on the dreary day.

We chose to take a scenic route home via Dewey, Bethany and Ocean City and just couldn’t pass up the Bloody Mary bar at Starboard in Dewey. A good place for breakfast and to get a jump start on your day.

Do yourselves a favor and beat the rush that comes after Memorial Day and plan a road trip to Rehoboth and the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel. The time is right!

Clockwise, from top: Beautiful beach view from the room; Dreary beach day on day two; Grotto Pizza; Starboard Bloody Mary; Thrashers; and Covered meter and Dolleys

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PHOTO CREDIT: ANGEL BEIL

North Beach American Film Festival

Old Town Crier

May 2018 | 25

TO THE BLUE RIDGE

JULIE REARDON

Virginia

Photo: Nancy Milburn Kleck

is for Horse Lovers

T

he first Saturday in May is home to what may be the most popular horse race over fences in the country: the Virginia Gold Cup. Kentucky may have the Kentucky Derby on the same day, but here in our area, that first Saturday is Gold Cup day. Virginia’s love affair with horses runs longer and deeper than Kentucky’s; we’re even starting to produce some decent whiskey locally and young girls still hope to find a pony under the Christmas tree. So the cowboy ballad by the legendary Tom T. Hall about older whiskey, younger women and faster horses could have been written about our state.

While the Kentucky Derby, first run in 1875, is the oldest continuously run annual sporting event and likely the best known horse event in America, George Washington was hunting hounds here in Virginia and colonials were racing horses before Kentucky was even settled. Here in the Hunt Country, the Derby is held on Gold Cup day, not the reverse. On May 5th, the Derby will have to share top billing with the Virginia Gold Cup steeplechase race meet, held at Great Meadow, The Plains,VA.

26 | May April2018 2018

With regular crowds in excess of 40,000 attending, the best Gold Cup arrangements and tailgating parties are planned months, even years, in advance; prime tailgating and rail side boxes are often passed down in wills and contested in divorces. Good ones are usually sold out long before race day. You can, however, still get general admission tickets up until race day starting at $85 for a car pass that admits 6 by contacting www.VAGOLDCUP.com or calling 540-347-2612.

The country’s top steeplechasers aren’t the only fast horses you can see this month. Lighting fast, responsive and keen, able to turn on a dime and anticipate the action, polo horses, called ponies, are just as fun to watch. Polo season in the hunt country gets underway this month also, with the return of Friday and Sunday polo at Banbury Cross in Middleburg and twilight polo at Great Meadow, as well as field polo at several locations. Beginning May 19th, the Great Meadow arena Saturday evening arena series opens in the newly renamed Greenhill Arena, recognizing sponsor Greenhill Winery and Vineyard. The games are a popular and kid

friendly social outing for an evening or a season. On selected Friday nights, Great Meadow also has a Twilight Jumpers program, where tailgaters can watch high jumping show horses compete for prize money. Both events run through mid-September, gates open at 6:30 pm, and admission is $40 per carload, $35 for tickets purchased in advance. Some of the events feature music and dancing by moonlight afterwards.

For a complete schedule, and ticket information, call the Great Meadow event line at (540) 253-5001, or visit: www. greatmeadow.org Young and old, whether you grew up with horses or only wish you had, everyone loves seeing the new spring foals and the blue blooded elite athletes of the hunt country at the Memorial Day weekend 59th annual Hunt Country Stable Tour. For most people, this is the best way to visit some of the most magnificent privatelyowned farms and grand estates in and around Middleburg and Upperville. Begun as a church fundraiser by Trinity Episcopal Church nearly 60 years ago, selected farms open their doors (well, their barn doors) to the public on Saturday and Sunday of Memorial Day weekend.

Featured are breeding, training,

and foxhunting stables, and demonstrations and exhibitions of a wide variety of horse sports, from racing, show jumpers and hunters, fox hunting, side saddle riding, carriage driving and more. The hounds, so important to the sporting life with horses in the area, will also be on parade: the Piedmont Foxhounds at 9 am Saturday and the Ashland Bassets, a pack of rabbit hunting Bassett hounds, will be at Salamander Resort.

This is a self-directed driving tour; you can visit some or all of the farms over one or two days (all are located around Middleburg and Upperville) or choose a few. You can pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the farms, or buy a ticket package that includes one to be picked up at the church in Upperville. To get a map and a ticket that will get you in all the farms ($30 per person; $25 if purchased before May 21) visit the website; it also lists all the farms and a schedule of activities and times. Tickets can also be purchase onsite at the church; or at the farms themselves. May 26 & 27, Hunt Country Stable Tour, Upperville/Middleburg area, www.TrinityUpperville.org/ hunt-country-stable-tour or call 540/592-3711.

A family favorite on

Memorial Day weekend, the Delaplane Strawberry Festival celebrates the sweet fruit at Sky Meadows State Park, Delaplane from 10am - 5pm May 26-27.

Sky Meadows is in the heart of Virginia’s beautiful hunt country, only an hour’s drive from Washington DC. This family-oriented fair features local crafters, children’s games, hayrides, live entertainment, a raffle, an old-fashioned bake sale, antique cars, petting zoo, of course, fresh strawberries, and more. Events include 5K Run/Walk, Strawberry Pie and Jam Contest, and a strawberry eating contest. Proceeds from the festival are used to fund the ministries and outreach programs of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Delaplane.

Admission $25/vehicle; more information or to purchase tickets call (540) 592-3556 or visit the delaplanestrawberryfestival. com .

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E

ach year around Memorial Day, Veterans of Foreign Wars members and American Legion Auxiliary volunteers distribute millions of bright red poppies in exchange for contributions to assist disabled and hospitalized veterans. The program provides multiple benefits to the veterans and to the community. The hospitalized veterans who make the flowers are able to earn a small wage, which helps to supplement their incomes and makes them feel more self-sufficient. The physical and mental activity provides many therapeutic benefits as well. Donations are used exclusively to assist and support veterans and their families. The poppy also reminds the community of the past sacrifices and continuing needs of our veterans.

The poppy has become a nationally known and recognized symbol of sacrifice and is worn to honor the men and women who served and died for their country in all wars.

The poppy movement was inspired by the poem “In Flanders Fields” written

by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae of the Canadian forces in 1915 before the United States entered World War I. By 1918 the poem was well known throughout the allied world. Moina Michael, an American woman, wrote these lines in reply: We cherish too, the Poppy red That grows on fields where valor led, It seems to signal to the skies That blood of heroes never dies

Selling replicas of the original Flanders’ poppy originated in some of the allied countries immediately after the Armistice.

A brief history of the artificial poppy In the World War I 28 | May 2018

NATIONAL POPPY DAY

MAY 25TH

battlefields of Belgium, poppies grew wild amid the ravaged landscape. How could such a pretty little flower grow wild while surrounded by death and destruction?

The overturned soils of battle enabled the poppy seeds to be covered, thus allowing them to grow and to forever serve as a reminder of the bloodshed during that and future wars.

Madam Guerin, who was recognized as “the poppy lady from France”, sought and received the cooperation

of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. early in 1922, after the FrancoAmerican Children’s League was dissolved. The VFW conducted a poppy sale prior to Memorial Day, 1922, using only poppies that were made in France. In the 1923 poppy sale, due to the difficulty and delay in getting poppies from France, the VFW made use of a surplus of French poppies that were on hand and the balance was provided by a firm in New York City

manufacturing artificial flowers.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States was the first veteran organization to promote a nationally organized campaign for the annual distribution of poppies assembled by American disabled and needy veterans.

In 1924, the VFW patented the name “Buddy Poppy” for their version of the artificial flower. Buddy Poppy proceeds represents no profit to any

VFW unit. All the money contributed by the public for Buddy Poppies is used in the cause of veteran’s welfare, or for the well-being of their needy dependents and the orphans of veterans.

Following the 1924 sale, the VFW believed it would stimulate local sales if the poppies they used were assembled by disabled veterans in hospitals within their own jurisdiction. The 1924 encampment of the VFW at Atlantic City granted this privilege, under the provision that all poppies would be produced according to specifications set forth by the National Buddy Poppy Committee, and that all poppies would be assembled by disabled veterans in government hospitals and by needy veterans in workshops supervised by the VFW. Around the same year, the American Legion Auxiliary adopted the poppy as the organization’s memorial flower and pledged its use to benefit our servicemen and their families. Today, the poppy continues to provide a financial and therapeutic benefit to those hospitalized and disabled veterans who construct them, as well as benefiting thousands of other veterans and their families.

Each nine-piece poppy is made by veterans for veterans in Auxiliary sponsored Poppy Shops that supplement physical and psychological therapy needed by hospitalized and disabled veterans. The Auxiliary provides the materials and the volunteers. The veteran makes the poppy and is paid a small amount for each painstakingly made flower. For some it is their only income.

No matter what the cost of maintaining and supplying the Poppy Shops, the memorial poppy is never sold, but given in exchange for a contribution.

Old Town Crier

By Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918) Canadian Army In Flanders Fields the poppies blow Between the crosses row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

Old Town Crier

May 2018 | 29

CAROLINE SIMPSON

MOTHER'S DAY FEATURE

: D E T N A W

M O M in h t i W y l App

H

appy Mother’s Day, Mom! If I was in charge, I would recommend you for a promotion and a raise, your service over the years has been remarkable. However, since I do not play the CEO role in this family, I will take this opportunity to honor you by giving you an inside look at my new plans for this holiday.

In all seriousness, Mother’s Day is an important holiday.

Allow me to provide a bit of the history for you. The tradition dates back as far as the Greek Empire and their Annual Spring Festival; various religions and spiritual groups dedicated a specific

day in May to celebrate the Mother Mary, Mother Earth, the Mother of All Deities, etc.

England expanded this honor to not just religious mother figures, but to all mothers, and the United States made it the celebration it is today about 150 years ago, when Anna Jarvis, mother and homemaker, decided that there were days for men and days for children, but there just was not a single day devoted to mothers alone.

Anna would be proud.

Today, Mother’s Day results in the highest volume of telephone traffic over any other day of the year, restaurants are more crowded

on this second Sunday in May than any other holiday, and, of course, Hallmark card sales increase dramatically.

Well, this Mother’s Day, I want to do more than just buy a card. I know that nothing says thank you like a folded piece of card stock with a poem and some pastel colored flowers on it, but you deserve more than that. This year, I am going to make a revolutionary recommendation to extend Mother’s Day to not just the second Sunday in May but for it to replace several other holidays so as to extend the focus on the value of mothers.

Before you question my

So Glad You’re My Mom Share How Much You Care

Job Title

: Mother .

Require work ovements: must be compen r time for no ad willing to sation. ditional Necessa for titude ry Skills: patie nce, ability to , and super-hum multitas an k.

Salary: to providnone but must b paymen e monthly (at le e able ts to clie ast) nts.

Travel: y es – lots .

Benefits day a ye : bedtime and the ar that it is all ab one out you! logic, take a look at the following list of holidays that I feel no one would really miss: (they all really are considered holidays according to the Earth Calendar’s website – www.earthcaledar.net.)

• Trivia Day (because moms know everything.)

• Maintenance Day (because moms fix everything.)

• Groundhog Day (because Punxsutawney Phil won’t last forever!)

• Random Acts of Kindness Day (no explanation needed.)

• Pi Day (as in 3.14… think about all that help we had with our math homework.)

• Father’s Day (come on dad, take one for the team!)

• Cross Atlantic Communication Day (because there are times when a mother’s voice can travel that far…like when dinner is ready or your bed is not made.)

Adopt-A-Manatee

®

This Mother’s Day

savethemanatee.org Photo © Cora Berchem

• National Hot Dog Day (hmmm – why do we have a National Hot Dog Day in the first place?)

• Talk like a Pirate Day (too funny to leave this one off the list!)

• Poinsettia Day (because

30 | May 2018

moms can keep them alive for months!)

It is clear that these are holidays that may be better served if they became the ten new additional Mother’s Days.

Why should you settle for just one day? There are 365 days and if you do the math, eleven total holidays increase the average to…I’m not sure; you always helped me with the math. Anyway, they are kind of like vacation days; think of it as a perk or as part of your benefit package. It is worth some consideration, and you are worth it!

Comments and suggestions are welcome, just not to whoever plays the role of HR. I would not want to hear from any offended Pirates or Groundhogs.

Happy Mother’s Day(s!)

Although it is one of her favorite things to do, Caroline doesn’t have much time for writing these days.

Her hobbies include changing diapers, cutting up food into chokefree bits, trying to outwit her 5 year old, and keeping her 1 year old free from severe injuries. This article was written prior to motherhood for her; as a mom of two little ones now, she fully supports the idea of increasing the number of motherfocused holidays. She’d also like to talk to HR about updating the job description and adding some mental health days to the benefit package.

Old Town Crier

DINING OUT

THE GASTRONOMES

LA TRATTORIA 305 SOUTH WASHINGTON STREET OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA 703-548-9338 LATRATTORIAOLDTOWN.COM

La Trattoria Old Town Le Dolce Vita on Washington Street

T

his month we decided to give the new La Trattoria Old Town a try. As most of you know, the restaurant is not new, but the ownership, management and style is certainly new. Let me start off by sharing one of the new principals, Michael Strutton’s thoughts with you: …PASSION FOR OUR CULTURE… My grandparents came to New York City from Sicily at a time when Fiorella La Guardia held mayoral office, Lucky Luciano was beginning a prison term, and the world was just starting to hear the music of Frank Sinatra. While many Italians were reaching great heights, the average Southern Italian immigrants lived modestly, kept to their own neighborhoods and raised families built upon whichever traditions from the old country could be maintained in the U.S. Most family settings revolved around food…and while not all of the same ingredients were available to them, my family and so many others proudly built a new culture: The ItalianAmerica culture. Somewhere in between European and

Old Town Crier

American personalities we found this new definition of who we are…a charm that erupts in every Dean Martin song and on every makeshift bocce ball court on the east coast. An identity that is at times as quaint as sharing a pizza around a vinyl kitchen table, and other times, as grandiose as “Connie’s Wedding.” But now, almost three generations later, we still cling to what makes us ItalianAmerican. My hope is that I’ve created a menu, a setting, and a mood that allows you to experience this culture, even if just for one night. If you want to savor a plate of freshly-made pasta, a glass of fine wine and a few moments of “The Sweet Life”, then we have a place for you at the table. Michael Let me add to this thought with one of my own, he has lived up to his message. The first thing he did was change the culture of the restaurant.

Customers now came first. He cleaned up the patio, painted the exterior and installed new outdoor furniture to create an inviting al fresco gathering spot.

Next he totally revamped the interior and most importantly, the bar area…not in a garish

way but with the simplicity of crates to form a back bar and installed a large TV that is only on for important sporting events or news events. The entire bar/lounge area was cleaned, painted and decorated with caricatures of stars of the entertainment field. Likewise, the adjoining dining room was completely redone in dark red tones. At the time of this writing, they were in the last throes of remodeling the second floor in order to expand dining space as well as the addition of a second bar area.

The menu at La Trattoria is extensive but not over the top. The Antipasti (appetizer) selections are typical Italian as are the Zuppe e Insalata (soup and salad) choices. No need to go into detail with menu items since they are readily available online. They are very proud of their Specialties of the House consisting of lasagna, eggplant parmigiana and house made cavatelli with veal ragu. A selection of 12 pasta dishes and Manzo, Vitello, Pollo and Pesce (beef, veal, chicken and fish) offerings that should please any palate. PIzze and Calzone (pizza and folded pizza – we couldn’t

think of a better translation) followed by Dolce (sweets) round out the menu.

The wine selection at LaTrattoria is simple and to the point. There is something that should please the wine snob and well as people like us who look for a good deal on a nice Pinot Grigio. There is full bar service as well and entertainment on selected evenings (check out the website).

With all that to choose from, I ordered the Stracciatella Rustic from the Zuppa menu.

This is a homemade soup of chicken broth spinach, egg and cheese. The broth, spinach and cheese was delicious but I got half way through the egg and had to back away.

Nothing wrong with the egg drop, just my somewhat “misunderstanding” of boiled egg. I never could eat a hardboiled egg as a kid. My partner opted for the Prosciutto e Melon (fresh cantaloupe wrapped in prosciutto ham) from the Antipasti menu. The only thing that can go wrong with this choice is if the melon isn’t good – no worries on the night we were there, it was perfect.

Being the veal fan that I am, I selected the Saltimbucca Alla Romano. This dish of tender veal sautéed in Marsala wine and crowned

with imported prosciutto ham was perfectly done. A dish that is easy to become overly salty if not properly prepared was right on the mark. The Marsala sauce was creamy and buttery that also blended well with the fresh pasta. The Lasagna from the House Specialty menu was the other choice at the table.

She has had this dish here more than once and it has lived up to her very picky expectations each time. Also a favorite among pasta selections are the stuffed shells and the ravioli.

Keep in mind that the portions are very ample and you will most likely walk out with some left overs.

We ended our repast by sharing one of our favorites from the Dolce menu, Spumoni. This is a fun dessert of cherry, chocolate and pistachio ice cream in a hard chocolate mold. We were a little surprised to find that they have cut the “mold” in half instead of serving the whole thing but it served the purpose and made for a nice presentation.

If you haven’t already stopped in, put La Trattoria on your list of places to check out as you plan your dining adventures.

Be sure to say that the Old Town Crier sent you!

May 2018 | 31

BEHIND THE BAR

BOB TAGERT

Casey Chapman How did you get started in the bartending business?

I’ve been in restaurants for 30 years, in all positions, and after working in an open kitchen as an executive chef, I realized how much I loved interacting with guests, and so I made the move.

What is your biggest bartender pet peeve?

Being called a “mixologist.” That’s only part of what we do back there.

Mixology is just making drinks correctly.

Real bartenders do that, but we are also welcoming committees, mood elevators, therapists, argument-solvers, and community information resources.

Calling me just a mixologist is like calling a chef a cook.

Tell us about an interesting encounter you have had with a customer(s).

Wow. There are a lot. I think the most interesting thing that keeps happening, because of our location, is that I’ll have someone come to the bar regularly, get to know them, and then suddenly see them on TV, whether as an expert in some form of policy or as a politician.

I never think of my bar customers that way, and anyone sitting at the bar is forbidden from talking politics, so I never know their full stories. The most uncomfortable was when someone whose privacy I will respect by not naming was sitting at the bar watching a Caps game. After the game, there was a teaser for the news to follow, and it was about that person being fired from their government role. AWKWARD!!

What is the cleverest line anyone If you could sit down and have a has ever used to get you to give drink with anyone in the world, them a free drink? past or present, who would that Guy walks up to the bar and says, “Do be? you have Freebird Rye?” “No,” I say, “never heard of it.”

“Okay, I guess I’ll have a free Old Overholt then.”

Yes, yes you will.

What is the best/worst pickup line you have overheard at the bar?

A woman was sitting, eating a steak at the bar. Guy walks up to her and says, “You know, if you just wanted meat, I’ve been sitting right over there.” Her response was the winner, though: “I was looking for a bigger cut.”

32 | May 2018

Harlan Ellison. Easily my favorite author (in fact, I named my son after him), and a fascinating person who may be the only human on the planet whose arrogance exceeds mine.

You can find Casey behind the bar on weekdays and then on Thursday and Friday night. He asks that you join him one Wednesday a month during their wine dinners for peak sarcasm and condescension!

If you would like to see your favorite “mixologist” (see above) featured here, send contact information to office@oldtowncrier.com.

BASTILLE 606 NORTH FAYETTE ST OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA 703-519-3776 BASTILLERESTAURANT.COM

Casey conjures up the “Ruins of Abington”.

Old Town Crier

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LET'S EAT

CHARLES OPPMAN

A Rite of Spring – Pasta Primavera

N

ow that spring is in full swing we’re likely to see the seasonal springtime dish pasta primavera on Italian restaurant menus across America. It just makes sense—the word primavera means “spring” in Italian.

But what is pasta primavera exactly, and what’s its culinary history? Let’s begin with the heart of the dish, the pasta.

Long before they invented the mechanical clock, gunpowder and paper, the Chinese invented noodles, which would come to be called pasta, “dough” in Italian.

Although the origin of pasta evokes much speculation, many historians credit the 13th century explorer, Marco Polo, with bringing pasta to Italy from China. During his 17 years in China the Venetian merchant probably dined with the likes of Kublai Khan, Polo must have sampled a variety of Asian pastas, which were generally made with rice flour or millet.

The Chinese began using wheat for noodles about 3000 BC. The medieval Chinese didn’t eat dry strands of pasta like we do today. Instead they cooked fresh pasta.

Pasta primavera is an Italian-American dish— created in New York City in the 1970s—consisting of pasta and fresh vegetables. There is no one recipe for this dish. It may contain almost any kind of vegetable, but cooks tend to stick to firm, crisp vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, peas, onions and green, red or yellow bell peppers, with tomatoes. Pasta primavera is usually highlighted by light flavors, aromatic herbs and bright colors. A seasonal addition would be fresh asparagus, which is inexpensive and plentiful during the spring season.

34 | May 2018

Chicken, sausage or seafood may be added, but the star of the dish is always the vegetables. A Classic primavera sauce is based on a soffritto (the Italian version of a French mirepoix) of garlic and olive oil, and finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Rich Alfredo-style cream sauces may used to enrich the dish. The choices of pastas with this dish are typically smaller shapes, such as penne, farfel, rigatoni and fusilli. If using longer like spaghetti or fettuccine, the vegetables are cut in julienne style, or thin strips, to match the shape of the noodles.

Pasta Primavera Ingredients 1 1/2 cups warm water 1/2 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces 1/4 lb green beans (preferably French haricots verts), trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces 3/4 cup frozen baby peas, thawed 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1/2 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 pint grape tomatoes 1 lb farfel pasta 1/4 cup unsalted butter 2/3 cup heavy cream 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh lemon zest 1 cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil Garnish: ParmigianoReggiano shavings

remaining 2 tablespoons oil in skillet over moderately low heat, stirring, just until garlic is wilted, about 1 minute. Add halved tomatoes with salt and pepper to taste and simmer, stirring occasionally. Add cream and simmer until sauce is thickened and halved tomatoes are softened, 3 to 4 minutes.

3 minutes. Cook beans first since they take the longest. Add peas and asparagus and cook until just tender, about 1 to 2 minutes more.

Immediately strain vegetables and transfer to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process, reserving hot water in pot for cooking pasta.

Drain chilled vegetables in a colander.

2. Cook 1 teaspoon garlic and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes in

2 tablespoons oil in a large, heavy skillet over moderately low heat, stirring just until garlic is wilted, about 1 minute. Stir garlic and add drained vegetables and salt and pepper to taste and cook, stirring, 2 minutes, then transfer to a bowl. Reserve skillet.

3. Cut tomatoes lengthwise. Cook remaining teaspoon garlic and remaining red pepper flakes in

4. Boil water and cook farfel until al dente.

Drain in a colander.

Immediately add butter and zest to skillet with tomatoes and simmer gently, uncovered, 2 minutes. Stir in cheese and add pasta, tossing to ensure pasta well coated.

Add green vegetables, parsley, basil, and salt and pepper to taste and toss gently to combine.

5. Serve dish topped with Parmigiano-Reggiano shavings. Serves 6 guests.

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AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa COLUMBIA FIREHOUSE 109 S. St. Asaph St. 703-683-1776 EVENING STAR CAFÉ 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-549-5051 FIN & HOOF 801 N. Saint Asaph St. 703-836-4700 FIVE GUYS 725 King St. 703-549-7991 FLAT TOP BURGER 529 East Howell Ave. 571-970-1006 FOSTERS GRILLE 2004 Eisenhower Ave. 703-725-1342 GADSBYS TAVERN 138 N. Royal St. 703-548-1288 HARD TIMES CAFE 1404 King St. 703-837-0050 HEN QUARTER 1404 King St. 703-684-6969 HUMMINGBIRD 220 South Union Street 703-566-1355 JACKS PLACE 222 North Lee St. 703-684-0372 JACKSON 20 480 King St. 703-842-2790

36 | May 2018

JOE THEISMANNS 1800 Diagonal Rd. 703-739-0777 KING STREET BLUES 112 N. St. Asaph St. 703-836-8800 LAPORTAS 1600 Duke St. 703-683-6313 LIVE OAK 1603 Commonwealth Ave. 571-312-0402 LORI'S TABLE 1028 King Street 703-549-5545 LOST DOG CAFE 808 North Henry St. 571-970-6511 MACKIE’S BAR AND GRILL 907 King St. 703-684-3288 MAGNOLIA’S ON KING 703 King St. 703-838-9090 MAJESTIC CAFÉ 911 King St. 703-837-9117 MASON SOCIAL 728 Henry Street Old Town Alexandria 703-548-8800 mason-social.com MOUNT VERNON INN Mount Vernon, Va 703-780-0011 MURPHYS IRISH PUB 713 King St. 703-548-1717 murphyspub.com Old-world Irish pub featuring a roaring fireplace, serving a variety of imported, domestic and non-alcoholic beers in a friendly atmosphere. Serving robust American-Irish meals at fair prices. Favorites include fish and chips and Irish stew. Irish-style entertainment nightly.

MYRON MIXON PITMASTER BBQ 220 North Lee St. 703-535-3340 NECTAR COFFEE & WINE BISTRO 106 Hume Avenue 571-431-6150 NORTHSIDE 1O 10 East Glebe Rd. 703-888-0032 OCONNELLS RESTAURANT & BAR 112 King St. 703-739-1124 danieloconnellsrestaurant.com PORK BARREL BBQ 2312 Mount Vernon Ave. 703-822-5699 RAMPARTS 1700 Fern St. 703-998-6616 rampartstavern.com RESERVE 2216 2216 Mount Vernon Avenue 703-549-2889 REYNOLDS STREET CAFÉ 34 S. Reynolds St. 703-751-0830

RIVER BEND BISTRO 7966 Fort Hunt Rd. Hollin Hall Shopping Center 703-347-7545 riverbendbistro.com ROCK IT GRILL 1319 King St. 703-739-2274 RT's RESTAURANT 3804 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-684-6010 rtsrestaurant.com SAMUEL BECKETTS IRISH GASTRO PUB 2800 S. Randolph St. Villages of Shirlington 703-379-0122 SHOOTER MCGEES 5239 Duke St. 703-751-9266 SMOKING KOW BBQ 3250 Duke Sttreet 703-888-2649 SNACK BAR 2419 Mt. Vernon Avenue 703-566-1283 SOCIETY FAIR 277 S. Washington St. 703-683-3247 SONOMA CELLAR 207 King St. 703-966-3550 SOUTHSIDE 815 815 S. Washington St. 703-836-6222 SWEETGREEN 823 King St. 571-319-0192 T.J. STONES GRILL HOUSE & TAP ROOM 608 Montgomery St. 703-548-1004 tjstones.com American cuisine with libations from around the world. Bar specials Mon-Fri, 4-7 pm. Brunch served Sat & Sun. TRADEMARK 2800 Jamieson Ave. 703-253-8640 UNION STREET PUBLIC HOUSE 121 South Union St. 703-548-1785 unionstreetpublichouse.com Old Town’s favorite neighborhood tap and grill. Southern style menu, fine steaks, fresh seafood. Sunday brunch, private parties, happy hour.

VERMILLION 1120 King St. 703-684-9669 VIRTUE GRAIN & FEED 106 South Union St. 571-970-3669 VOLA’S DOCKSIDE GRILL & THE HI-TIDE LOUNGE 101 North Union St. 703-935-8890 THE WAREHOUSE BAR & GRILL 214 King St. 703-683-6868 ASIAN

ASIAN BISTRO 809 King St. 703-836-1515

MALAYA 1019 King St. 703-519-3710 MAI THAI 9 King St. 703-548-0600 NASIME 1209 King St. 703-548-1848 STREETS MARKET AND CAFE 3108 Mt. Vernon Ave. 571-431-6810 THAILAND ROYAL 801 N. Fairfax St. 703 535-6622 TOKYO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 66 Canal Center Plaza 703-683-8878 CAPHE BANH MI VIETNAMESE 407 Cameron St. 703-549-0800 SANG JUN THAI 300 King Street 571-312-3377 KAI ZEN TAVERN 1901 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-836-1212 THE SUSHI BAR 2312 Mount Vernon Avenue 571-257-3232 CONTINENTAL

BRABO

by Robert Weidmaier 1600 King St. 703-894-3440 BRABO TASTING ROOM 1600 King St. 703-894-5252 CEDAR KNOLL INN GW Parkway at Lucia Ln. 703-799-1501 RESTAURANT EVE 110 S. Pitt St. 703-706-0450 TEMPO 4231 Duke St. 703-370-7900 temporestaurant.com Northern Italian, French provincial & American cuisine featuring fresh seafood, meats and pasta served in a contemporary, romantic atmosphere.

FRENCH

BASTILLE 606 N. Fayette St. 703-519-3776 bastillerestaurant.com LE REFUGE 127 N. Washington St. 703-548-4661 FONTAINES CAFFE & CREPERIE 119 S. Royal St. 703-535-8151 LA MADELEINE 500 King St. 703-729-2854 TWO NINETEEN RESTAURANT 219 King St. 703-549-1141 YVES BISTRO 235 Swamp Fox Rd. (in Hoffman Ctr.) 703-329-1010

LA BERGERIE 218 N. Lee St. 703-683-1007 labergerie.com ITALIAN

BUGSYS PIZZA RESTAURANT 111 King St. 703-683-0313 bugsyspizza.com

FACCIA LUNA 823 S. Washington St. 703-838-5998 THE ITALIAN PLACE 621Wythe St. 571-777-8981 HANKS PASTA BAR 600 Montgomery Ave. 571-312-4117 IL PORTO RESTAURANT 121 King St. 703-836-8833 LA TRATTORIA 305 S. Washington St. 703-548-9338 LANDINI BROTHERS 115 King St. 703-836-8404 landinibrothers.com Elegant, classical Italian cuisine served in a lovely historical setting.

Fresh veal, homemade pastas, and fresh fish are some of the daily choices. An extensive list of wines and champagnes served in a sophisticated and friendly atmosphere.

LENA’S WOOD-FIRED PIZZA & TAP 401 East Braddock Rd. 703-960-1086 PARADISO 124 King St. 703-683-5330 PINES OF FLORENCE 1300 King St. 703-549-1796 RED ROCKS FIREBRICK PIZZA 904 King St. 703-717-9873 MEDITERRANEAN

LA TASCA 607 King St. 703-299-9810 TAVERNA CRETEKOU 818 King St. 703-548-8688 tavernacretekou.com PITA HOUSE 719 King St. 703-684-9194 thepitahouse.com DELIAS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 209 Swamp Fox Rd. Alexandria, VA 703-329-0006 SEAFOOD

HANKS OYSTER BAR 1026 King St. 703-739-HANK FISH MARKET-OLD TOWN 105 King St. 703-836-5676 fishmarketoldva.com Internationally known and locally owned! We serve shrimps, a few Old Town Crier

crabs, tall people and lots of nice people, too! Live music and lively food!

ERNIES ORGINIAL CRABHOUSE 1743 King St. 703-836-0046 THE WHARF 119 King St. 703-836-2834 wharfrestaurant.com "Its All About the Seafood," traditional and creative coastal cuisine.

INDIAN

BOMBAY CURRY COMPANY 2607 Mount Vernon Ave. 703-836-6363 DISHES OF INDIA 1510A Bellview Blvd.

703-660-6085 NAMASTE 1504 King St. 703-970-0615 MEXICAN LATIN SOUTHWESTERN

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May 2018 | 37

GRAPEVINE

NANCY BAUER

THE FAUQUIER FIVE-A-DAY TOUR Five wineries, 20 miles end-toend, 40 minutes total driving.

L

ast month’s “Fauquier Wine Finds” itinerary was moderately ambitious, covering two to four Fauquier County wineries a day over a long weekend. This month, I’m sticking with Fauquier County, because it’s just that awesome, but amping up the pace.

When I and my husband, Rick, did the original winery research for our travel app, Virginia Wine in My Pocket

(available in iTunes and Google Play), we didn’t have the luxury of leisure. We mapped out a five-month plan to visit 150 Virginia wineries, while working full time jobs: The 150 Wineries in 150 Days Tour.

It was equal parts wonderful and miserable. Educational and overwhelming.

Energizing and exhausting. It was epic.

So think of this Fauquier Five-a-Day as a training run toward your own epic winery tour, if you’re a goal-oriented type. But – and this is a big

IT’S HIP TO SPIT If you’re visiting one or two wineries in a day, it’s probably safe to fully enjoy the tasting pours. But a fivewinery itinerary is completely different.

At six to eight wines per winery, figuring even a scant one ounce per pour, you’re looking at 35 ounces – or about 7 glasses of wine - over the course of your day.

So yeah, no. It’s time to learn to spit, if you haven’t already.

I am chagrined to say that I never once spit in the five months Rick and I spent touring 150 wineries to research our Virginia Wine in My Pocket travel app. I paid the price in dehydration, embarrassed slurring, honking headaches, and lots of extra poundage. Now I make it a point to grab a big plastic cup on my way out (a red Solo is fine). You get almost all the flavor with way fewer side effects.

Practice at home if it makes you feel more confident, but once you have glass in hand, the routine is simple: swirl, sip, swish, spit. Because you aren’t swallowing, you want to pay particular attention to the swish; make sure the wine makes it around the sides and the back of your mouth, touching all the taste buds. Take your time; let it sit there awhile as you notice how the flavors evolve, the acid makes you pucker and the tannins creep in. And when you’re ready, bring the cup to your mouth and let ‘er rip. If your cup gets too full for a splash-free spit, it’s perfectly acceptable to dump it into the bucket on the bar.

Still feeling self-conscious? Here’s an incentive: Since almost no-one spits, one of the unanticipated benefits is that the staff will assume you’re a wine aficionado.

That may get you more attention and, ironically, even more wine.

38 | May 2018

but - if you’re going to attempt five wineries in one day, be smart about it: bring plenty of water and drink it constantly, have a designated driver, bring along protein snacks, and use a spit cup. Yes, a spit cup.

(More on that below.)

When you don’t have a whole weekend to commit to wine, but want to pack in as many wineries as you can, try this. Each of these wineries is worthy of way more than the 45-60 minutes you’ll have on this tour, but you’ll find that out for yourself.

Start here: Miracle Valley Vineyards, 3661 Double J Lane, Delaplane. Closed Tuesday/ Wednesday. Tastings $12.00 per person. No pets.

On the side of Little Cobbler Mountain, you’ll feel the peace as soon as you turn into Miracle Valley: horses grazing under golden trees; butterflies and rose gardens bordering a flagstone patio; flags flying, and an 8-foot Angel sculpture gracing the vineyards (donated by sculptor Lei Hennessey-

Owen, who’s received national recognition for the angels she created for the 9/11 crash sites).

Miracle Valley grows all its own grapes, including vidal blanc, chardonnay, viognier, merlot, cab franc, cabernet sauvignon, and petit verdot.

Owner Joe Cunningham is the winemaker, and crafts classic dry whites and reds, including a 100% Petit Verdot (sold out when I visited, which isn’t unusual for PV, the latest Virginia wine to make waves).

Try their white sangria, made from white (yes, white) cabernet franc.

Three Fox Vineyards, 10100 Three Fox Ln., Delaplane. Closed Tuesday/ Wednesday. Tastings $11 per person (waived with purchase of 3 bottles).

The owners of Three Fox Vineyards have a love of all things Italian, and it shows up both in the landscaping, and in the wine. Owner John Todhunter is the winemaker, using estate-grown grapes that include pinot grigio, viognier, nebbiolo, merlot,

cabernet franc, and the first sangiovese planted in Northern Virginia. It’s that sangiovese that produces the highlight of the wine lineup; a rose’ made using the saignée method of bleeding off some of the sangiovese juice at the beginning of the production process.

Open since 2005, Three Fox has witnessed tremendous winey growth in the county.

As wineries work to develop their “brands” and their niche, Three Fox has, in addition to their Italian-styled wines, the advantage of acres of green lawn that attract picnickers to spread out beside a burbling creek, along with quiet tables for two up a steep hill, with dynamite views of the vineyard.

Aspen Dale Winery at the Barn, GPS Address: 11083 John Marshall Hwy, Delaplane. Open daily. Tasting fee $10 per person.

One of the loveliest settings in a county known for its over-the-top beauty, views GRAPEVINE > PAGE 40

OPEN YEAR ROUND THURSDAY-SATURDAY & MONDAY from 11-5 SUNDAY from 12-5

offering ITALIAN VARIETALS 10100 Three Fox Lane, Delaplane, VA (540) 364-6073 • www.threefoxvineyards.com

tuscany EXPERIENCE

IN VIRGINIA

Old Town Crier

EXPLORING VA WINES

DOUG FABBIOLI

Trading Cards Aren't Just for Baseball!

T

he rural team of Loudoun County’s Economic Development Department started a unique program a couple of years back. On opening day of the Major League Baseball season, in conjunction with the Loudoun County Public School Nutrition Services, they release a series of Farmer Trading Cards. The cards are distributed throughout the elementary schools through the county.

The farmers featured, do a card signing and greet the students on their way from the cafeteria during lunch. Last year, one of our former staff members and students in The New Ag School was featured on a card.

Alex is now at Virginia Tech on a 2 year program for animal husbandry.

Many of the farmers featured over the years can be seen at the farmers markets, at their farm or involved with the

community. As this is a public school based program, the powers that be thought it was best to not include the farm wineries and farm breweries that focus on an alcoholic beverage as their end product.

I was fortunate enough to be recognized this year as the director and head farmer of The New Ag School. Our focus is to use mentoring and online modules to educate future farmers and agricultural

real people. earth friendly. fabulous wines.

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leaders, giving our region more farmers to use these great lands for production. I had the opportunity to sign some cards for the students at Frederick Douglass Elementary School in Leesburg. We talked about animals, pineapples, strawberries, the farming lifestyle and how they rely on farmers. Pizza was on the lunch menu so it was an easy transition to talk about making cheese from milk, sauce from tomatoes and pizza crust from grains. With the fifth graders, we were able to discuss entrepreneurism and sustainability and how that related to the farm and our program. Even though these kids were not old enough to participate in our programming, they could get involved with the 4H program.

Reminding them to “thank a farmer 3 times a day” was my closing line.

The ability to stir up some thought with these kids is important to me. Yes, my main focus for farming is growing grapes that will be turned into wine, an alcohol based product.

But understanding that crops from farms are processed into products of many types is very important. And the fact that those products are used

and sold as clothes, food, fuel, building materials, decoration or whatever, is very important as well. It’s not hard for these kids to look at the food on their lunch tray and take each product back to the farm. We just need to guide them there, and to educate them that someone has a job in growing that crop as well as processing that crop into the food they recognize.

I give a lot of credit to the Loudoun County Public School Nutrition Services for having the vision to reach this audience. Credit also goes to The Department of Economic Development for seizing this opportunity to connect the kids to the farmers. Our county leaders have recognized how important it is to keep our farms and farmland in the west.

This effort is fundamental to establish that importance in the minds and hearts of our next generation. It is an honor to be recognized by this program and I will continue to do my part in keeping agriculture and Ag education in the forefront of our efforts.

Learn more about the Ag School at Newagschool.org and like us on the Facebook!

May 2018 | 39

Your Guide to Virginia Wine Country Winery Maps Check-off lists Virginia’s top wines & wineries Dog-friendly wineries Family-friendly wineries + much more!

Available now at these select wineries: Pearmund Cellars, Barrel Oak and Philip Carter ONLINE ORDERS AVAILABLE NOW! virginia-wine-in-my-pocket.myshopify.com Use code OTC to save 25% before March 31!

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GRAPEVINE FROM PAGE 38

here are relaxing and pastoral, with stone outbuildings, an old silo, and gazebos for small groups.

At Aspen Dale, a 200-yearold barn serves as the center of the wine-making operation.

The tasting room manages to be elegant, cozy, funky and comfortable all at the same time, with a big fireplace anchoring all the bits and pieces.

Wine tastings come paired with a tidbit of food, to show off the wine’s qualities. Catered snacks, trays, and cakes can be preordered.

Naked Mountain Winery & Vineyards, 2747 Leeds Manor Road, Markham. Open daily.

Tastings $10 per person.

Folks in the DC area have been venturing out to Naked Mountain for t-shirts (Drink Naked!) and wine since 1982.

The winery is proud of its use of 100% Virginia grapes (and lucky/smart enough to have the vineyards to support it). The Chardonnay has received quite a bit of acclaim over the years, including two turns gracing the glasses of White House dinners. More than 6,000 cases of Naked Mountain wine are now sold each year.

In addition to Naked Mountain’s classic wines, including the 2016 Tannat, which won Gold at the 2018 Virginia Governor’s Cup, winemaker Joe Burgess produces a trio of light, easydrinking wines with fun names like Birthday Suit, Make Me Blush, and Skinny Dipper.

The recently-expanded tasting room has a woodsy feel and opens onto a large deck with views of the surrounding woods, while inside, a big stone and brick fireplace invites guests to linger in colder months.

Fox Meadow Winery, 3310 Freezeland Road, Linden.

Open daily. Tastings $10 per person.

The Blue Ridge Mountain views capture much of the attention at Fox Meadow, one of the higher-elevation wineries in the state, at 1700 feet up. The distant ridgelines appear almost onedimensional, like cut-outs painted varying shades of blue and gray, stacked one in front of the other to mesmerizing effect.

The relaxed wine tasting changes weekly and includes a few carefully-selected food pairings. The third weekend of each month features a carefully-selected pairing of wine and cheeses for $15.

Respected winemaker Tom Payette crafts the vino here, with impressive results, from the estate’s pinot grigio, vidal blanc, chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, petit verdot and, coming soon, chambourcin.

In a blind taste-off at the Virginia Wine Summit several years ago, a room full of wine experts mistook Fox Meadow’s Chardonnay for one from the iconic Chateau Montelena in California. (Don’t know that one? Check out the movie Bottle Shock for context).

The Syrah, made from grapes grown in central Virginia, is a stunner, with lovely layers of flavor. Fox Meadow’s Le Renard Rouge took top honors in the 2011 Governor’s Cup for reds - a very prestigious honor.

Nancy Bauer is the author of the new book, Virginia Wine Country Travel Journal, and the founder of the wine country travel app and website, Virginia Wine in My Pocket.com. The book is available on Amazon and at selected wineries, and the app is available on iTunes and Google Play. Contact Nancy at nancy@ vawineinmypocket.com

DISCOVER THE FOUNDING FAMILY OF AMERICAN WINE

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40 | May 2018

Old Town Crier

FITNESS

S

pring is in the air and so is the pitter pat of beginning runners hitting the roads and trails across the country.

Similar to the masses of new gym goers in January excited

by New Year’s resolutions to become fitter, beginning runners often hit the road at the first sign of warmer weather with similar aspirations. Many new runners head out with good intentions and admirable goals, but often find themselves overwhelmed or unenthused with the progress of their new activity. Why is that? Running is often the first choice of new fitness enthusiasts because of the low start-up costs, the fact that you can do it just about anywhere, and there are no long term dues or fees associated with running. Because of the low cost and ease of access, many new runners aren’t prepared mentally or physically for the new demands they’re about to put on their bodies and well as the time investment needed. All good things come in time and running is

NICOLE FLANAGAN

Spring Fitness Tips definitely one of those “good things.” Here are 10 tips to help ensure success with your new adventure into running.

1. Get Fitted: Pay a visit to your local independent running store. Often these smaller stores have more knowledgeable staff than the big box retails stores.

Many provide gait analysis which reveals your foot strike pattern. Knowing this will help in selecting the best shoe for your foot type. Don’t skimp on your shoes. Be prepared to pay $80 to $100 for a good pair of running shoes.

2. Get Technical: Invest a little in some technical fabric running shorts, tops, and socks. Technical fabric can be made of a variety of fibers including natural and synthetic materials.

Avoid 100 percent cotton.

It tends to retain sweat causing chaffing, irritation,

and even blisters. Technical fabrics allow the moisture to rise to the surface where it can evaporate. They still get damp, but not nearly as much as 100 percent cotton.

3. Get a Group: Motivation, inspiration, accountability, and commitment increase dramatically when you’re a part of a running group or at least have a running buddy. Everyone experiences times when they don’t want to run, but if you know you have buddies counting on you, it can make all the difference in the world when it comes to rolling over and getting out of bed. Check with your local running store.

Many provide beginning running groups or know of running coaches in the area that work with beginning runners.

4. Get a Plan: Just getting out the door and running

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often does not work for many people, especially if you’ve been sedentary or away from exercise for any period of time. Find a beginning running plan to follow. There are beginning running programs online or you can contact your local running store, running club, or running coaches in the area to inquire about beginning running plans.

One of the most effective ways to begin is with a run/ walk method 5. Get Acclimated: Whenever you begin new exercise your body’s fitness level will actually dip a little while you acclimate to the new demands you’re putting on your body. Understand before you take up running that it takes your body about four to six weeks to acclimate to the new demands. Anticipating that “wiped out feeling” can actually make it less of a shock. Just know that you’re going to feel the effects of your new activity. Hang in there and before you know it, you’ll pull out of that dip and begin to feel stronger than before you started.

Also, start slowly. Many new runners experience shin splints, pulled calf muscles, cramping quads, or sore hips from going out too fast or from doing too much too soon. Take it slow and ease into your new activity.

6. Get Fueled: Fueling your new activity is very important. Timing is key.

It’s a good rule of thumb to eat about 1.5 hours prior to your run. This will give your body time to digest the food and provide your body with the needed energy for your activity. Not eating or not eating enough before your run can make your run feel labored or cause your muscles to feel fatigued.

Eating too soon can sometimes cause stomach issues.

7. Get Hydrated: Being wellhydrated is just as important as being well fueled. Be sure to drink about 20 oz. of water about two hours prior to running. This will give it time to pass through your system and be voided

Old Town Crier

before your run. During your run, drinking water is fine. Once you’re running more than 45 to 60 minutes, you’ll need to switch to a sports drink to help replace vital electrolytes which are minerals (sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus) that play a major role in helping to maintain proper water balance in your body.

Electrolytes can be lost though your perspiration.

Sports drinks such as Gatorade contain these important minerals.

8. Get Warmed-Up: Before you head out on your run, be sure to warm-up your muscles with a dynamic stretch. A five-minute walk is a great way to do this.

This will help decrease the chance of your muscles feeling tight during your run. Save the traditional stretch-and-hold stretches for after your run.

9. Get In Tune With Your Body: Listen to your body.

If you’re feeling something other than regular workoutrelated muscle soreness, don’t run. Running through the pain is never a good idea. If you’re experiencing pain along your shin, hip, IT Band or any area of the body that’s beyond normal muscle soreness, ice it, elevate it, and use your normal choice of antiinflammatory medication and rest. When you no longer feel any pain, ease back into your running. If the pain persists, don’t let it linger. Go see your doctor.

10. Get Rest: Rest is just as important as your workout.

Rest allows your body time to rebuild and recover.

When you run or do any type of exercise, you actually create little micro tears in the muscle tissue. Your body then rushes in to rebuild and repair the tears. This is the normal muscle-building process that makes you stronger. However, if you don’t take the proper rest, your body may not have time to fully repair before your next run causing you to feel sore, tired, and sluggish. When you first start your beginning running program, it’s a good idea to have at least one day of rest in between runs.

May 2018 | 41

FROM THE TRAINER RYAN UNVERZAGT

❶

FITBALL CROSSOVER CRUNCH

M

ay is the perfect month to initiate an exercise program if you have slacked lately. The weather starts to cooperate better which favors more outdoor activities. Walking, bike riding, hiking, jogging, or even rollerblading are fun things to do this month. I encourage you to get outside but if not, I have a great exercise for your core.

This one’s called the FitBall Crossover Crunch. I find it helpful to use a ball that is a size smaller than the one you normally would use. A 65cm ball is my usual size, however, I’m using a 55cm for this exercise because a smaller ball will keep you closer to the ground for stability. You need your opposite hand and foot touching the floor while performing this exercise. If a bigger ball is used, you might not be able to reach the ground and there’s a good chance you’ll fall off!

To start, lay on top of the ball with it placed on your mid-to-low back. The ball should curve along the lumbar and lower thoracic vertebrae. Keep your opposite foot and hand in contact with the floor while the other leg is

straight and parallel to the ground (figure 1).

You should have your other elbow bent with the hand behind your head.

Bring your elbow toward the opposite knee (from the straight leg) to “crossover” to the middle. Focus on contracting your abdominals to help bring your shoulder toward the center for a slight rotation (figure 2). During this movement, the ball should not roll. To finish, slowly release tension on the abs to bring your elbow and leg back to the start position.

Finish 20 reps with the same side before you switch to the opposite arm/leg combo.

Don’t try to alternate sides, this can be unsafe.

To progress, you can add more reps or keep your opposite arm and leg straight during the exercise. Keep up the hard work and we’ll see you next month!

Unverzagt holds Bachelor of Science degree in Wellness Management from Black Hills State University. He is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength & Conditioning Association and a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

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Old Town Crier

FIRST BLUSH

KIM PUTENS

The Secrets to a Fool Proof Self Tan

L

earning to apply selftanner is as much about patience and perseverance as it is an art form. It does not have to be an uphill battle, like learning how to paint the Mona Lisa. It is achievable and a few tricks of the trade will have you looking as stunningly bronzed as ever.

Even if you seek out a professional for help, it is important to know what and what not to do. Remember,

regardless of your self-tanning fate, it is still better to get that fake bake than to bake in the sun or in a wretched tanning bed.

Step 1 – Exfoliate – You must get off all that dead skin before even attempting to point that bronzing bottle at your body. If you do not slough, the tanner will blotch.

Pay particular attention to rough spots like knees, elbows, heels, and hands.

When choosing an exfoliant,

be sure to choose one that is oil-free. Oil prevents tanner from properly penetrating.

Step 2 – Prep Yourself – To avoid turning green, orange or any other color of the rainbow, it is extremely important that you prep your skin. Remove deodorant – it can react to the self-tanner and turn your underarms green. Put moisturizer on your eye brows – the tanner can turn them orange. Finally, rub a thin layer of body lotion

onto chronically dry areas such as elbows, hands, heels and hands to keep them from turning darker shades of brown. All this will ensure that the tanner absorbs nicely without splotching or streaking.

lightly on your wrists and hands so you don’t end up looking like you are wearing dark brown gloves. Finally, face the music. Mist your face lightly. Instead of one fell swoop, mist your face in sections.

Steps 3 – Dress Accordingly – Opt for less is more.

Choose clothing that is not your Sunday best. Keep in mind these clothing items may or most likely will be slathered in self tanner. If at home, naked is best. If at a professional tanning salon, consider wearing a thong that could get ruined or use the paper ones provided. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Step 5 – Fix Mistakes – You have about 20 minutes before the tanner fully absorbs. So, check your work quickly so you can attend to mistakes.

If you find areas that are too dark or splotchy, fix your mistakes by blotting the dark areas with a make-up sponge.

Be sure not to wipe, as you can create streaks.

Step 4 – Get to Work – To avoid weird lines from bending over, it is best to work your way up starting with your lower half. Be sure to hold the spray tan can at least eight inches away from you and spray in an up and down motion. Spray from your thighs to calves to feet in slow, steady, even layers. Go easy on typical problem areas - feet, knees and ankles - so they don’t end up darker than the rest of your body.

Next, move to the middle.

Spray the front and back of your torso. Then do your arms, armpits, and wrists. Be careful not to overdo the area around your armpits. These should look a little lighter as they naturally would. Go Old Town Crier

Step 6 – Let it Set – It takes about 8 hours for self-tanner to fully set. Thus, for this period of time, be sure to wear loose, dark clothing, as it is possible for tanner to rub off on your clothes. Avoid any clingy clothing such as a bra.

Avoid showering during this time period either because it will impact the fate of your tan. If you find that an area looks too dark, rub a slice of lemon over the area. The acid will tone down the color.

Step 7 – Make it Last – Most self-tanning applications last about one to two weeks.

To get the maximum out of your self-tanning effort, avoid exfoliating and shave your legs infrequently, if possible.

Finally, moisturize your body from head to toe after every shower.

May 2018 | 43

SPIRITUAL RENAISSANCE PEGGIE ARVIDSON

Let’s Celebrate the

M

others. AmIright?!

I have a number of conversations about mothers and motherhood. I’m a step-mom who didn’t have children of my “own.” I’m an adoptee who really questions the definition of what having children of your “own” means.

I’m involved in a number of adoptee communities where the word “Mom” and the idea of Mother’s Day can send people into pits of despair as easily as it brings others to tears of euphoria. Like most things in life, it’s a mixed bag.

We can all agree that none of us would be here without a mother. And there’s the rub.

Until Artificial Intelligence makes a few more leaps in its development, we’re all in need of a mother to give us life.

This begs the question of whether or not giving birth alone defines you as a Mom. In my mind Mom is a word much like love. I know it when I feel it, but I don’t have a particularly good definition that works for everyone.

Some people who have mixed feelings about the word mother, seem to get a raw deal, by being taken from the only mother they had known for 9 months and being handed to another mother. That can take a toll on a small human. We forget that even at a day old a child has already bonded with their mother. They know her voice and recognize her smell and her rhythms. They get 9 months to build up that trust and connection. So, no matter the well-meaning reason, taking that baby and putting it into a strange environment 44 | May 2018

is traumatic. Just think about it – we don’t let people adopt puppies who are younger than 8 weeks.

As an adoptee, recently reunited with my birth people, I am keenly aware how different my life is than it may have been.

(Notice I didn’t say “better,” because that’s just not a realistic comparison. Am I better because I had more material stuff? Am I better off because I didn’t move around the country as a kid? Am I better off because I didn’t have a huge family? I don’t know. No one knows. We only know what we’ve experienced and anything else is just conjecture.)

I do know that a number of seemingly small machinations had to happen for me to be exactly where I am right now.

To me, that’s the miracle. I have the miracle of having two moms. I have a birth mother who carried me for 9 months and named me before signing papers to let me go.

Was she selfless? I’m not sure about that. I think she would have liked to have figured out how to keep me, but the times being what they were, that just wasn’t an option for her. Her family was tough and bringing a baby into it would have been tougher on her and likely me. I’m certain she thought that a Mom and a Dad would make my life easier and I’d agree. My life has been easy and I’ve felt guilty about that for a long time. I carried the sense that I somehow let my birth mother down by abandoning her to the easy life. However, it’s all I

Moms this Year!

know so who am I to say that I’d be here on earth doing the work I’m meant to do if my life had been different?

My Mom is the woman who raised me. She’s the one who, pardon the cliché, checked my forehead for fevers and listened when I cried about being left out at school. She’s also the one who washed my

mouth out with soap and taught me about right and wrong. My Mom showed me the ropes, sometimes by being nothing like me and letting me run to my room in tears because I was so distraught I didn’t have the words to describe what I was feeling.

My Mom (pictured here) is the one who always supported me when I wanted to search for my biological family. My Mom is the one who does her best to keep track of all my half-siblings and aunts and uncles now that I’ve found them. My Mom celebrates and commiserates with me about my wins and losses in life. I never would have had these experiences with my Mom if it weren’t for the

woman who gave birth to me.

So, while Mother’s Day is a complicated day for me (and many thousands of people like me) it’s a day that reminds me to be grateful to all the women who do the work of mothering in all their many ways.

This month I’m celebrating Mother’s Day by celebrating families in all their forms, from families with 2 dads to 2 moms, to single parents doing the work of two. I’m celebrating my friends who mother each other with deep friendship. I’m celebrating my friends and family who have lost their mothers and I’m celebrating each of us for the potential of loving and mothering ourselves. I hope you do the same.

Are you at a crossroads and need to make some serious decisions?

If you’re feeling stuck at work, in love or in general, it can feel impossible to get out of your own way.

Peggie helps you assess your situation, using ancient and modern tools to help you move forward with a specific plan of action.

Private Sessions are available by phone or Skype.

PeggieArvidson.com Peggie@peggiearvidson.com Old Town Crier

STEVE CHACONAS

GO FISH

Culling Regulations On the Potomac

T

o pierce or not to pierce is confusing for Potomac River tournament anglers. Tournament fishermen can legally catch a limit, 5 fish over the minimum size, and then begin to cull out their smallest fish when replacing it with another larger fish. Possession of the 6th fish must accompany the release of one. To keep track of their fish, tournament anglers use some sort of culling organizer. Most if not all of them consist of a metal hook, similar to the old chain stringer hooks, and either colored or numbered floats. This allows anglers to quickly identify and retrieve the fish that needs to be put back. It also allows the fish to be attached to a scale or a balance beam to determine which is the smaller fish to be released.

The perceived problem is that the fish are harmed with the piercing of the lower jaw.

This is even truer when the hooks are incorrectly pierced, allowing the chain to rip a large hole in the mouth of the fish or even breaking the jaw.

Two things enable better use of these hooks. First, sharpen the point so they will penetrate easier. Then place the entry point close to the lower jaw of the fish. And then when removing the fish, use the chain to guide the fish to hand lip them to prevent putting too

much pressure on the hook in the mouth of the fish.

In August 2016, the BASSMASTER Elite Series was caught by surprise when Maryland DNR set forth a requirement for all anglers to use non-piercing culling devices. Pros scrambled to find non-piercing clips, which were few and far between at the time. While B.A.S.S. complied, their Conservation Director Gene Gilliland pointed to a few factors. First, the organization had been suggesting anglers should voluntarily use nonpenetrating culling clips or devices for culling as part of standard fish care practices. It was suggested this would help minimize possible fish injury and increase survival after release. In addition, Gilliland noticed that, on occasion, bass weighed in from heavily fished waters sometimes showed a higher percentage of culling injuries. However, Gilliland said they know these fish had been caught for a second (or greater) time and were feeding…and surviving.

He contended there was no scientific information that showed penetrating culling clips or tags are having longterm negative effects on bass populations. For this season B.A.S.S. has implemented a non-piercing cull policy to achieve the highest survival of released fish possible. MD biologist Dr. Love suggests fish

caught during the warmest months of the year with tears or rips from puncturing culling devices would be more susceptible to a greater risk of infection, and could cause further injury when used improperly.

Elite Series Ranger Mercury pro Dave Lefebre says some over-use culling devices anyway. In most fisheries, he knows certain fish will not likely be culled, like a Potomac 10 pounder. But, like the Potomac, some fisheries are won by ounces of cookie-cutter sized fish “I just don’t feel the need to use clips that much.

I know my fish. I get 5 in the livewell and I don’t put them on unless I have to…usually only for small ones.” For Lefebre clipping fish, unless he has to, is a waste of tournament time.

He usually clips only 3, rarely 4, and never 5. He shared the worry expressed by other pros that clips won’t stay on in the livewell, while retrieving fish or when using a balance beam.

Others are just concerned about the change, doing something out of their long time routine.

At the first Elite Series event of the year, TH Marine provided anglers with their new G-Force Conservation Cull System. Pros are reporting these non-piercing clips stay in place and the balance beam system works well. Lefebre points to Rapala’s system with

a digital scale that tracks total weight and weight of individual fish to assist in choosing the right fish to cull. Most pros are using this scale. After a keeper fish is caught, it is weighed and saved. All subsequent fish are also loaded into the scale with a corresponding number. When a limit is reached, culling is simple as the scale will indicate the smallest fish to release and replace.

But on the Potomac River, it is a bit confusing when it comes to the no-piercing culling device requirement.

To be clear, it is not a Maryland regulation. Rather it is a provision applied to MD

permitted events. Directors not required to obtain a permit aren’t required to adhere to its provisions. This only applies to events launched at Maryland ramps. The non-piercing cull device restriction is part of the permit that directors receive between June 16 and October 31. Exempted are tournaments with fewer than 10 boats or staged in a location outside of Maryland. Technically, events launched in Virginia or DC would be exempt from any stipulations, like reporting requirements or keeping fish in oxygenated water, which MD would otherwise apply to bass tournaments.

Potomac River Bassing in May Fish are shallow and preparing to spawn. Lure choice depends on water clarity. Lipless crankbaits on 12-pound test GAMMA Edge fluorocarbon line with a Quantum KVD cranking rod and a high speed Quantum Vapor reel is the most effective tool. Engage the grass, snap free, and hesitate. Darker colors in stained water and under cloudy skies. Shad patterns otherwise.

Mann’s Classic spinnerbaits on 12-pound Edge also probe the shallow grass. Again, engage and snap free. Mann’s Baby 1-Minus is best over wood cover or over grass during lower tides. Firetiger is a good color most of the time.

Pitch Mizmo tubes on 3/0 Mustad Mega Bite hooks with 12-pound Edge to target holes in the grass. A 3/16-ounce Water Gremlin Bullshot weight will get the bait into the strike zone.

Author Capt. Steve Chaconas is Potomac bass fishing guide & contributing writer for BoatUS.com. Potomac River reports: nationalbass.com. Book trips/ purchase gift certificates: info@NationalBass.com

Old Town Crier

May 2018 | 45

OPEN SPACE

A

LORI WELCH BROWN

A Colorful Life

friend of mine passed unexpectedly a couple of months ago. It was a shock, but he had endured many years of suffering and pain. I’m 51 so it wasn’t my first encounter with grief, but it reminded me that you can never really prepare yourself for death and the many different colors of grieving. His wife is one of my closest friends, and I won him in the deal. We were about as different as two people could be and still like each other. He was a math/ science guy. I’m an English/ arts girl. He was into cars and sophisticated engines. I’m into Uber and paint by numbers.

His jam was algorithms and analytics. My jam is the Style section and Sunday mornings.

He worshipped technology.

I curse it. Daily. He could remember details from an event 30 years ago (of course, I think he may have expanded upon a few details). I can’t remember what I had for lunch. I remember sitting outside a coffee shop with him waiting for my friend/his wife. He was explaining how telescopes work and was really digging into the minutia.

I’m not a minutia kinda girl.

About six minutes in (which felt, btw, like 82 hours), he looked at me and said, “Your eyes are glazing over.” We got each other. We were yin and yang, but what he was to me isn’t as important as what he meant to me, to the friends he left behind, and more importantly, to his wife.

She was one of the first ones of our group to get hitched 46 | May 2018

so he became the guy who would willingly tag along to our various hen parties (aka wine nights). I cannot begin to count the number of times he sat with us as one of us recanted the latest boyfriend dating debacle—of which there was no shortage. He would decode and demystify the male counterpoint and tell us mostly what we didn’t want to hear—which of course would be spot on.

“He isn’t that into you. He’s no good. Move on.” At one point, I think he even offered to create a program to chart someone’s dating patterns, analyze it, and create a critical path. True story. In his mind, the key to finding Mr. Right would be in a successful project management strategy.

He walked festivals with us, waited patiently as we shopped, and tried his best to get us to be interested in exhaust systems and megabytes. It didn’t work, but what I wouldn’t give to hear him explain aerospace engineering or molecular gnomes again. Is that even a thing?

A few days after his passing, I felt as if I had been hit by lightning—scorched and hollow. I thought if grief were a color, it would be red.

Not rose red, but fire engine red. Those initial days felt hot and visceral. Hurtful and searing. The heat of grief. My heart, throat and tear ducts were inflamed. If I stepped down into a tub of water surely steam would rise off my body. Days passed, the red cooled down and

morphed into grayness. Life was moving forward, but joy was hard to find. Days were filled with the busyness of errands and checklists. This is where routine and to do lists are a Godsend. Get up.

Drink coffee. Go to gym. Pay water bill. Call caterer. All I could think of was my friend and her routine. Everything would be different now. In the interim, she slid into a new normal of filling out paperwork, notifying friends and making arrangements.

My heart hurt for the loss of her routine and her old normal.

It has been 12 years since my mom passed. That grief is now blue. It is peaceful, solemn and around me like a blanket at all times. It is the serene blue of longing and remembrance. It is the aqua

blue of the most beautiful body of water. It is flowing, shifting, and reflecting. It runs deep and it carries me always.

I don’t recall when the shift from gray to blue happened, but I guess that’s different for everyone. Time passes and the gray slips into the abyss.

Flowers begin to bloom. Skies illuminate. Smiles brighten.

New routines spring forth.

When people talk about good, stand-up guys, my friend was one of the best. He adored his wife, and looked after her every need for the better of 20 years. They traveled the world together and had plans to do more. She is unsure of her tomorrow, but she is practicing living in the present. I said to her, “you’ll get through this one day at a time,” to which she replied “more like one moment at a

time.” A moment in time is good. We should all heed that advice. We have cried a lot together in the past weeks, but we have also shared stories and laughter. I’ve said a lot of meaningless, cliche things.

Hang in there. He would want you to be happy. Life isn’t fair.

Don’t make any big decisions.

Remember to eat. They are just words, but they are spoken with heart in the color that is love.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms—fur baby mommies too. And to the dads who are playing dual roles! And a special hug to those whose moms are in a special place in our hearts.

As always, hug the ones you’re with and resolve your issues with the others.

Tomorrow is a magical, mystical concept…

Old Town Crier

NATIONAL HARBOR

I

just couldn’t wrap my head around something special to write about this month.

The Harbor celebrated 10 years last month and that was pretty big news so I got to thinking about how to top that. I decided to take on the mindless task of sorting through the business cards in my purse in order to clear my head around 2 a.m. on the 26th and there it was. Derek Lovato’s card. He just happens to be the GM of the Capital Wheel operations as well as a very good guy. We have become fast Harbor friends over the last year or so. It donned on me that the Wheel celebrates its 4th Anniversary this month so I decided we needed to pump it up!

The Wheel is the result of another of National Harbor developer Milt Peterson’s inspirations. It followed on the heels of the installation of the much loved Carousel. Like many things in the Harbor, it was met with mixed emotions.

Residents thought it would be too noisy and too “bright” why move into a resort area and expect some music and lights?

(That’s a subject for another Old Town Crier

LANI GERING

column) Needless to say, I don’t believe the Wheel has caused anyone any consternation other than being a beautiful addition to the waterfront.

It did get off to a bit of a rough start. The initial cost of tickets (almost unaffordable for an average family of 4 if you wanted to do anything else in the Harbor) and the fact that the concession that was promised at the base was non-existent were probably the major issues. In the last 4 years, they have both been addressed.

Ticket prices have been lowered and there are several fun packages that can be purchased and the Flight Deck is back in operation.

In addition to having the best waterfront view at the Harbor, this outdoor lounge features beer, wine, champagne and soft drinks. You also have the option of taking said beverages for a ride and if you really want to impress, purchase the Capital Wheel commemorative cup for a mere $8 so you can “Sip While You Soar” in style!

The Flight Deck is only open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with Happy “Hours” on the weekend during May

but will be open every day from Memorial Day to Labor Day with extended hours.

The cost of the beer and wine is pretty much in line with the rest of the bars and restaurants in the Harbor but all of the “adult beverages” are deeply discounted for the first “four” hours after opening on Saturday and Sunday. Not a bad way to start out a sunny weekend afternoon!

At this point there isn’t any “real” food served on The Deck.

Available now are Virginia Peanut Company peanuts for the adults and assorted Dippin’Dots – I’m still unclear just exactly what these are - for the kids so I suggest that you grab a snack before you “Hit the Deck”!

The Capital Wheel and the Flight Deck are perfect for celebrations, group outings, special events as well as just drinks with friends. The Deck has a 145 person capacity so can accommodate a gathering of pretty much any mid-size event. They have bar packages starting at $17/per person, per hour that can be customized to your taste.

Flight Deck

Hours May Hours:

Friday: 4 to 10 pm Saturday & Sunday: 12 to 10 pm Happy Hours: 12 to 4 pm

Capital Wheel Hours:

Monday-Friday 4 pm to 10 pm Saturday & Sunday 12 to 10 pm

Memorial Day thru Labor Day Hours: Monday-Friday 4 pm to 11 pm Saturday & Sunday 12 to 11 pm Happy Hours: 12 to 4 pm

Capital Wheel Hours:

Daily 10 am to 12 Midnight

TheCapitalWheel.com May 2018 | 47

National Harbor Calendar of Events - May 2018 ONGOING THROUGH OCTOBER Fitness on the Potomac On the Plaza Participate in FREE fitness classes on the Plaza. All classes run from 7-8 pm with Saturday morning Yoga that runs from 10-11 am.

Mondays – Cardio Hit Tuesdays – Kickboxing Wednesdays – Zumba Saturdays – Yoga

ONGOING THROUGH SEPTEMBER Movies on the Potomac On the Big Screen At the Plaza Nothing says summer like an evening under the stars—and there’s no better way to enjoy the season than movie nights at National Harbor.

Pack your chairs, grab food to go from one of our delicious dining establishments, and meet us at the Plaza screen for a free evening of fun!

Date Night Movies – 7 pm 3rd - The Fate of the Furious

10th - Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull* 17th - Roman J. Israel, Esq 24th - The Mummy 31st - Wonder Woman Family Night Movies – 6 pm 6th - CoCo 13th - Despicable Me 3 20th - Cars 3 27th - The Lego Batman Movie * National Harbor 10 Year Anniversary Commemorative Giveaway for the first 75 people!

Please note that movie times/dates may be changed or cancelled due to weather. We will announce any updates via social media, so please make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates

MAY 12TH THROUGH SEPTEMBER

personnel alike, while their tuneful stylings in a variety of genres please music lovers of all ages.

Please refer to our social media pages for any weather-related cancellations.

12th – US Army Band - Downrange Downrange supports the men and women of the Armed Services through popular music while reaching all audiences, young and old, with their continuously up-to-date repertoire of rock, pop, country, R & B, and inspirational signature patriotic arrangements that are popular with all listeners.

MAY 5TH Cinco de Disco Capitol Wheel Pier Kids Session – 4 – 6 pm Adult Session – 8 – 11:55 pm

National Harbor is bringing the “Silent Disco” experience to the Harbor for one day only.

Rescheduled from April 7th, there will be two sessions – one for Kids and another for Adults. Silent disco is a unique way to experience music by wearing wireless headphones piped in to music played by dueling DJ’s.

Kids Session: Mocktails and 2 Dueling DJ’s Adult Session: Creative cocktails by Lash Bartenders with DJ Franky J spinning the hits. All this while you dance with yourself under the tent.

Salute the Sunset Concert Series Plaza Stage – 7 pm World-class performances by bands from the nation’s Armed Forces at National Harbor stir the hearts and souls of civilians and military

MAY 12TH New Orleans Seafood Festival The Plateau Two Sessions: 11 am – 3 pm 5 pm – 9 pm Join us at the first New Orleans Seafood Festival to grace the Nation’s Capital during Mother’s Day Weekend. Experience authentic New Orleans culture by indulging in Cajun and creole food, music, art, and drinks; make sure you stop by the pop-up Bourbon Street Bar and French Market! In true NOLA festival fashion, don’t forget to bring your chairs, blankets and umbrella in case it rains. The event is rain or shine. It’s a Cajun thang!

NATIONAL HARBOR DINING GUIDE AC LOUNGE 156 Waterfront Street 301-749-2299 BOND 45 149 Waterfront Street 301-839-1445 BRASS TAP 164 Fleet Street 301-965-9116 BROTHER JIMMY’S BBQ 177 Fleet Street 301-909-8860 CADILLAC RANCH 186 Fleet Street 301-839-1100 CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL 158 National Plaza 301-749-2016 CRAB CAKE CAFE 140 National Plaza 240-766-2063 ELEVATION BURGER 108 Waterfront Street 301-749-4014 48 | May 2018

FIORELLA PIZZERIA E CAFFE 152 National Plaza 301-839-1811 GRACES MANDARIN 188 Waterfront Street 301-839-3788 GRANITE CITY FOOD & BREWERY 200 American Way 240-493-3900 IRISH WHISPER 177 Fleet Street 301-909-8859 MASON'S FAMOUS LOBSTER ROLLS 156 National Plaza 410-298-7850 McCORMICK & SCHMICK 145 National Plaza 301-567-6224 McLOONES PIER HOUSE 141 National Harbor Plaza 301-839-0815

NANDO’S PERI-PERI 191 American Way 301-567-8900 NATIONAL PAST TIME SPORTS BAR & GRILLE Gaylord Resort 301-965-4000 gaylordnational.com OLD HICKORY STEAKHOUSE Gaylord Resort 301-965-4000 gaylordnational.com PIENZA ITALIAN MARKET Gaylord Resort 301-965-4000 gaylordnational.com POTBELLY SANDWICH WORKS 146 National Plaza 301-686-1160 PUBLIC HOUSE 199 Fleet Street 240-493-6120

REDSTONE AMERICAN GRILL 155 National Plaza 301-839-3330 ROSA MEXICANA 135 Waterfront Street 301-567-1005 SAUCIETY AMERICAN GRILL 171 Waterfront Street 240-766-3640 SUCCOTASH 168 Waterfront Street 301-567-8900 THAI PAVILLION 151 American Way 301-749-2022 WALRUS OYSTER & ALE HOUSE 152 Waterfront Street 301-567-6100

Old Town Crier

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