Old Town Crier- May 2019 Full Issue

Since 1988 • Priceless

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

May 2019

Lest we forget...

oldtowncrier.com

Setting the Standard In Old Town Since 1979

may’19 A Division of Crier Media Group OTC Media LLC PO Box 320386 Alexandria, VA 22320 703. 836. 0132

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office@oldtowncrier.com oldtowncrier.com Published the first week of every month.

Worth waiting for!

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

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

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

Publisher’s Notes.............................................................. 2

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

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

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

Road Trip...........................................................................25

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

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

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

Grapevine.........................................................................36

CONTRIBUTORS Ron Powers Kim Putens Julie Reardon Amy Roberts Ashley Schultz Jackie Shannon Bob Tagert Carl Trevisan Ryan Unverzagt Lori Welch Brown Molly Winans

Behind the Bar................................................................30

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

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

Jazz Fest Preview...........................................................11

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

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

Spiritual Renaissance...................................................44

Dining Guide...................................................................32

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

Sunny Days at Virginia Wineries..............................38

Dining Out.......................................................................29

National Harbor Events..............................................48

Exploring Virginia Wines............................................37

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

Financial Focus.................................................................. 8

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

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

Pets of the Month.........................................................19

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

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

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

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

Points on Pets.................................................................18

Walsh Family Wine........................................................40

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

Special Feature: Memorial Day...............................28 Special Feature: Mother's Day.................................40 Social Media Message................................................... 2

Tall Ship Providence Update....................................15 The Last Word.................................................................... 9 To the Blue Ridge..........................................................26

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

May 2019

Lest we forget...

oldtowncrier.com

about the cover Poppies 22 x 30 oil on canvas by Joan Fullerton. Joan is a longtime friend of our co-publisher, Lani Gering, who grew up with her on the vast plains of Eastern Wyoming.

Fullerton’s work has been in galleries, juried shows and museums since the early 70’s and she has shown internationally in Canada, Italy and Japan. Her work has been published in several books, magazines and texts and can be viewed on her website: JoanFullerton.com

Old Town Crier

on the road with OTC The Old Town Crier seems to be very popular with our kids from Colorado. Last month Bob's great nieces and nephews who reside in Erie submitted their pics and this month Lani's great niece - who lives in Eaton with our From the Trainer author, Ryan Unverzagt - decided she wasn't going to be upstaged. Pictured here with her mom Tracy, Tremson Adlee checks out the Points on Pets section all about bunnies and chicks.

If you would like to see your picture here, take the OTC on your next adventure, snap a high resolution photo and send it along with information for the caption to office@oldtowncrier.com. Happy Trails!

May 2019 | 1

PUBLISHER’S NOTES

BOB TAGERT

Spring is finally upon us and everything is turning green. It’s also sailing season and I am getting ready! It has been awhile since I’ve been on the water. Even the tiny shoots are appearing on the vines in Virginia wine country. The weekends have been dry and it is a perfect time to cure cabin fever with a drive to wine country. I have written about some of our favorites that are only an hour away. Nancy Bauer has written about some of the wineries that offer lunches and other food offerings. A great idea for a Mother’s Day getaway lunch! In Exploring Virginia Wines Doug Fabbioli lets us know what goes on in the mind of the vine grower this time of year. Lani Gering gives us a look at Goldfish Swim School for kids in the Business Profile. Find out the advantages of an SUP in From the Bay. Learn about the three extraordinary Buck Islands of the Virgin Islands in Caribbean Connection. In From the Blue Ridge read about the Middleburg Training Center – it has hosted some pretty famous thoroughbreds.

When we started the Old Town Crier in January 1988, one of our goals was to always have a great front cover. When we received this note it made us very proud...

Mr. Tagert, I was fortunate to encounter your magazine on a bench in the Crilley Warehouse this past week, drawn by the cover photo of Oscar on the cover of the March issue. It is a great little magazine full of articles, features, ads and listings that offer a tour book for Alexandria and environs.

The picture of Oscar is soon to be framed as the look of an apex predator never goes out of style.

Thank you for a great magazine.

Rick Eulo Alexandria, VA – March 16, 2019 I also want to thank all of those people who correctly identified the blooms on the April cover.

We had a surprising number of replies! We actually thought the flower was just a “weed” and it turns out that it is a preferred ground cover of many called Perian Speedwell (Veronica perica).

You can even buy seeds for it!

May is a month for celebrating Mom and Memorial Day and we hope you enjoy the features that follow!

Until next month……

Happy Easter from Lani and Bob!

H

ave you ever been in a really toxic relationship? If not, we all know someone who can’t seem to break it off with a partner who is obviously and completely a bad fit. What is the appeal of these overbearing, controlling and morally bankrupt types that would spy, stalk, lie, cheat, steal and profit from the misery they cause and then laugh all the way to the bank? Why would any sane person put up with such treatment? Worse, why do we put up with it from companies we do business with?

I’m stepping outside my comfortable little hollow in the Blue Ridge foothills to examine the growth of censorship and bias from social media. The biggest offenders are Google, Twitter and Facebook; these three and their offshoots have a virtual monopoly on social media today. And these Silicon Valley giants, have effortlessly stolen, sorted and categorized our personal data for corporate sales, while quietly undermining or simply buying competing entities. They’re now flexing their muscles with censorship to exert control over what we say and think.

Stealing and selling personal 2 | May 2019

Facebook Jail information is scary enough but control over what you can say and think could be even worse.

These corporate predators are using these tactics to throttle, shut down and/or damage any possible competition or indeed, any ideas, opinions or topics they do not agree with.

The censorship and restrictions on free speech to promote their own ideology was largely dormant in the infancy of social media. Being in “Facebook jail” used to be a joke and a clear indication you annoyed somebody enough to report you. But the censorship is turning into a cancer spreading into full blown control over what you read, write and think.

Facebook wants you to use its Messenger app as your main means of electronic communication, so new features such as direct calling, electronic payment and video chat are regularly trotted out. As it gained a foothold, Facebook quietly made Messenger incompatible with non-user messaging; thus users now act as an unpaid sales force for this Facebook product.

But Messenger now needs a large hazard warning like the ones on other cancer-causing

products. “Warning: You are being monitored to ensure you meet OUR standards. We can and will censor, suspend your use privileges, have your information removed capriciously at any time and for any reason and you shall have no way to defend yourself, because we aren’t content just to spy on you and sell your data.”

The censoring, page removal and banning is damaging many small businesses that have come to rely on Facebook and Messenger to operate. Facebook defends its censoring by saying it makes the product safer and more enjoyable. But by whose standards? Who makes the determination of what is hate speech or bullying? New censorship guidelines put out last year amounted to 1400 pages. And it has not helped Facebook’s soiled reputation: it’s the most hated company in America, according to the 2018 annual 24/7 Wall Street review.

Rankings are based on several categories including American Customer Satisfaction Index survey results, major news events from last year, employee reviews from Glassdoor and more, including stock prices.

From a record high in July, it recorded the biggest decline in

SOCIAL MEDIA MESSAGE JULIE REARDON history in August and by the end of the year was trading at 20 percent less.

Reprimands and censoring from Facebook and Twitter are not new, but formerly resulted mainly from other users reporting posts they felt were bullying or containing hate speech. Snitches are no longer necessary as automated scrutiny and censorship has been ramped up. Censoring posts, banning pages and restricting certain users for opinions, even those politely and respectfully written, began a few years ago.

In the past several months I have seen an exponential increase in censoring, removing posts and restricting or banning users, including deployment of more and newer algorithms and web crawlers to search for content Facebook considers “hate speech” or “bullying”, capricious definitions that can change at whim.

Twitter users have also seen censorship and bans become widespread; and Google routinely promotes businesses it aligns with over those it does not. According to one high school user: “YouTube [owned

by Google] now de-monetarizes popular videos,” she explained.

People that post videos that

go viral, normally receive ad revenue. But apparently, not if the subject is one Google does not approve of. “They are keeping the revenue the owner of viral video would normally get if the owner shows hunting videos or things like pet snakes being fed mice.”

A Christian ministry’s page was pruned by Facebook, but death threats against the pastor who ran the page, even after being reported, were ignored.

Posts were removed and page administrators were banned with a clear double standard applied against the ministry, as well as a number of other Christian sites. Even though the page followed Facebook’s own directions, it was still targeted, while threatening posts against page owners and moderators were permitted by the social media giant.

Even in supposedly closed or “secret” Facebook groups with restricted audiences, posts are being censored and pruned for words and photos that might possibly be offensive to someone, somewhere outside of the group. If the overzealous Facebook police SOCIAL MEDIA> PAGE 5

Old Town Crier

Alexandria MAY TOURS, EXHIBITS, EVENTS

THROUGH THE 18TH

MAY 5TH AND 26TH

“The Savannah Disputation”

Geek Tour: Behind the Scenes

Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sundays at 3 p.m.

Admission: tickets from $21 The Little Theatre of Alexandria 600 Wolfe St. 703-683-5778 www.thelittletheatre.com The subject is damnation, but “The Savannah Disputation” is as light and sweet as the iced tea served by the odd-couple sisters in their proper southern home. But the sisters quickly lose their southern charm when a young door-to-door evangelist comes knocking to save their souls.

This theological comedy with a twist blends the sharpness of wit with the depth of character while telling a story of a crisis of faith

11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Admission: $15 Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum 105-107 S. Fairfax St. 703-746-3852 www.alexandriava.gov/apothecary

MAY 3RD Art on the Rocks 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Admission: $45 for the early-bird price; must be 21+ The Art League Gallery 105 N. Union St. 703-683-2323 www.theartleague.org Art on the Rocks ticket holders will get to sample all of the delicious pairings and vote for their favorite drink during the event. A panel of experts will crown the winners of the most creative cocktail, appetizer and artwork pairing.

MAY 4TH Factory Flow: A Healthy Arts Series 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Admission: $20 Torpedo Factory Art Center 105 N. Union St. 703-746-4590 www.torpedofactory.org

MAY 5TH Spring Pop-Up Market May 5, 2019, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Admission: Free Various locations throughout Del Ray www.visitdelray.com Just in time for Mother’s Day, the Spring Pop-Up Market provides the chance to discover unique gifts made by local entrepreneurs and artisans.

The market will occupy Pat Miller Neighborhood Square, the site of the weekly farmers’ market. For more information, visit www.visitdelray.com.

Alexandria’s Renowned Neighborhood Restaurant & Bar Open daily for lunch and dinner and dinner on Sundays

3804 Mt. Vernon Avenue • Alexandria 703-684-6010 • rtsrestaurant.net

Late Shift at the Torpedo Factory: Alexandria Creates 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Admission: Free Torpedo Factory Art Center 105 N. Union St. 703-746-4590 www.torpedofactory.org

MAY 4TH, 11TH, 18TH, 25TH

MAY 12TH

Peeling Back the Layers: Architecture and Preservation

Mothers’ Day Tea

Old Town Crier

SPECTACULAR SEAFOOD • CREOLE & CAJUN SPECIALTIES

MAY 10TH

Find inner peace and creativity with this early-morning series focused on art, health and imagination. Sessions feature sound artists, yoga teachers, dance instructors and more. Visit www. torpedofactory.org for tickets and to pre-register.

Explore the 18th century buildings of Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, including spaces rarely opened to the public, and understand how the buildings have changed over time. Wear comfortable shoes, be prepared for stairs and bring your camera.

Southern Restaurants in America!

Spend more time touring the StablerLeadbeater Apothecary Museum with an expert guide. You’ll enjoy special access to the rarely-open basement and third floor of the historic pharmacy.

Wear comfortable shoes, be prepared for stairs and bring your camera.

Enjoy gallery talks, artist receptions, music, live performances, hands-on artmaking and three floors of open artists’ studios at the Torpedo Factory Art Center’s monthly Late Shift event.

Alexandria is a vibrant and creative collection of neighborhoods and cultures. It’s one of the top 25 most diverse cities in the country and is located in the nation’s most vibrant arts region. Celebrate our home town and take part in its next renaissance.

10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Admission: $15 Gadsby’s Tavern Museum 134 N. Royal St. 703-746-4242 www.alexandriava.gov/GadsbysTavern

Virginia’s Only Restaurant chosen by Open Table as one of the

May 12, 2019, at 2:30 p.m.

Admission: $45 for adults; $25 for children ages 6-12; children under 5 are free Carlyle House Historic Park 121 N. Fairfax St. 703-549-2997 www.novaparks.com/parks/carlylehouse-historic-park Treat your mother, grandmother or special woman in your life to an elegant afternoon tea. Relax in the beautiful CALENDAR > PAGE 15

May 2019 | 3

PERSONALITY PROFILE

LORI WELCH BROWN

Laz and Szilvia in Iceland's Blue Lagoon

Laz and Szilvia in the Fango bath

Laz & Szilvia Bazals From Hungary to Fort Hunt

T

Interior

Agua Cocoon - Rhydro spa

Laz 4 | May 2019

ypically this column is about the personality of a single person, but it’s hard to choose between the personalities of Laz or Szilvia when you have the unique and special personality of the spa they own and operate itself to consider. It’s a lovefest!

First—it’s is overwhelmingly clear that Laz and Szilvia truly clearly care about the wellness of their clients—there are no shortage of hugs and/or special offers for those who enter. Second—their mission of wellness translates over into the space they have worked so hard to renovate and put their own signature on. Chip and Johanna Gaines of Fixer Upper fame have nothing on them!

Laz has a passion for doing physical work—not only using his hands for massage, but for building and renovating. It has paid off because he has done a fantastic job in the spa’s make over. Szilvia’s talent for decorating proves that they are a terrific complement to each other’s skills. What little spare time they have is spent renovating their home in the Shenandoah Mountains—they are turning it into a log cabin.

Don’t ya’ just love a good spa day? All that girly-girl pampering and blissing out feels like just what the doctor ordered. Paint my nails passion

pink, please! Other days, you actually feel like you need doctor’s orders to cure those little aches and pains that often come with a maturing body (who, me?), fatigue, strained muscles, illness, injury and plain ol’ everyday stress, wear and tear. I need a massage stat! Code blue! That’s where my pals at Ft. Hunt Massage and Spa come in. I can get all blissed out and get the kinks worked out at the same time thanks to Laz and Szilvia.

The husband and wife team originate from Hungary and bring their knowledge of European spas to the Ft. Hunt/ Mt. Vernon area. They grew up in a culture of hot springs and hydra therapy. Szilvia lived next to Hungary’s biggest thermal hot spring and grew up visiting it often as a family. It was not only therapeutic, but a place for socializing—often gathering for a game of chess while relaxing in the medicinal waters.

Szilvia and Laz each made their journey to the U.S. and met while pursuing different endeavors. Laz was a personal trainer for many years while also participating in body building competitions. His interest in muscle performance led him to study anatomy (“just for fun,” he adds). The more he studied, the more his interest

grew which led him to apply to a registered nursing program to which he got accepted. While he was waiting for the term to start, a course in medical massage caught his attention so he enrolled. He was initially drawn to the medical piece of the training vs. the massage— he had no intention of being a massage therapist. After he completed the course, he started working with clients to help pay for his nursing tuition, and soon had a loyal following.

Two years into his nursing training, he decided to devote himself full-time to his medical massage work as he realized he could help people without the use of pharmaceutical drugs and/or surgery which greatly appealed to him.

I started booking massages with Laz at the spa (then under different management/ ownership) when I was suffering from severe arthritis in my hips about three years ago. Those sessions not only provided me with relief, but Laz also educated me on what was going on with my muscles, tendons and the surrounding tissue. The opportunity presented itself for him to purchase the business located at 1300 Lafayette Drive in PERSONALITY PROFILE > PAGE 5

Old Town Crier

PERSONALITY PROFILE | FROM PG 4

Alexandria in June of 2017 (Laz originally had another business partner who has since left).

While I was visiting for this article, I had the good fortune to test out a couple of their unique offerings. First, I went into the Red Light Therapy bed for 15 minutes. (It is UVA-free, by the way). I’m told NASA used a version of it in space to grow plants and then the astronauts started using it to help their wounds heal faster.

SOCIAL MEDIA | FROM PAGE 2

names what you posted “hate speech” or you’ve gotten more than one reprimand, your user privileges get suspended for anywhere from two to 30 days, sometimes even an outright ban. And a single warning, even if mistakenly applied, puts you forever in the Facebook censorship crosshairs: every subsequent post will now be scrutinized by automatons that may or may not be checked by contract workers abroad, most of whom are not native English speakers. I received a stern warning about hate speech and a 30 day ban for using the word cotton picker. I used it in reference to the farm machine that harvests cotton and it was even under a photo of the machine in a cotton field.

One user’s photo of a puppy was removed because it “contained nudity” according to Facebook; that person received a 30-day ban. Yet actual photos with nudity frequently appear and are not even removed when reported. Photos of the U.S. flag have been removed as “spam” including a video of the Star-Spangled Banner.

The company claims that posts with critical opinions of a New Mexico terrorist under indictment for the death of a child while running a terrorist training camp constitute “hate speech” as are those critical of the illegal criminal previously deported who returned and is alleged to have shot and killed California police officer Cpl. Ron Singh.

Even a posted section of the Declaration of Independence was flagged as “hate speech” and removed. These examples and more are a tiny sample of ways the social media thought police are using to control what you read, write and think.

In December, the New York Times reported on a 1,400+ page document outlining Facebook’s rules for governing global speech. According to the Times, “numerous gaps, biases and outright errors” were Old Town Crier

It is said to strengthen your immune system and reduce inflammation while boosting the production of collagen.

Sounds like a win/win to me.

Next I spent 20 minutes in the Aqua Cocoon which is from Estonia. There are only four in the U.S.—one in Miami, another in New York, and we are lucky enough to have one right here in our back yard.

It simulates the benefits of a natural hot spring by infusing your body with vitamins and minerals. I came out feeling found in the way moderators determine what speech is considered appropriate for the platform.

“Facebook, the digital police state… Everyone who hoped the internet era would lead to a utopia of openness and freedom must now face the reality of a colossal digital police state in Facebook.” Although I replaced China with Facebook, this was taken verbatim from a Jan. 12 op ed in the Washington Post about the censorships and restrictions that totalitarian regime places on its estimated 800 million internet users.

It described the Chinese as subject to the world’s largest censorship operation, including a so-called “Great Wall” that blocks access to millions of foreign websites and programs, including Twitter. But perhaps the world’s largest censorship operation is really Facebook, not the Chinese government.

About those secret groups: it’s a safe assumption to make that nothing you post online is truly private. But closed, and especially secret groups, are formed for the express purpose of private chat so that likeminded people can discuss what they want without fear of offending those who might think differently. This was why I was somewhat surprised that a post of mine describing a notoriously sleazy public figure as white trash earned me the hate speech warning along with a 48 hour censorship.

The remark was in response to someone else’s post about the person, who is well known in the pornography industry.

Publishers Note: Ashley is taking a well-deserved month off from her column. Julie has been the OTC’s Blue Ridge contributor for many years so we gave her some space to explore another subject.

relaxed and rejuvenated—it felt like every cell in my body was treated to a really healthy meal.

Other offerings include the Steamy Wonder spa—a personal steam pod infused with essential oils and herbs which is terrific for people suffering from upper respiratory issues and/or headaches. They have a master esthetician on board, a nail

technician (who is trained in medical pedicures), five massage therapists, as well as energy healing sound bath immersion. Last, but far from least, they have a terrific acupuncturist, Dr. Chung Park, who is trained in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Japanese acupuncture, five elements acupuncture and Korean four needle

acupuncture.

Oh—and they’ve installed tablets in every treatment room so clients can choose their own soothing sounds as well as being able to adjust the volume. Genius! You’ll find upgrades and special touches at every turn and table at Ft. Hunt Massage and Spa. (Hint: The Mom in your life might love the special treatment!).

609 KING STREET, ALEXANDRIA, VA 703.549.0011 Advertising copyright © 2019 ALOR International LTD. All designs copyright © ALOR International LTD.

$1

,50

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FF*

* Offer is applicable for the projects cost over 25K. Offer cannot be combined with any other offer, promotion or discount.

Valid until 6/30/19. New customers only.

May 2019 | 5

BUSINESS PROFILE

LANI GERING

GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL 3155-B DUKE STREET ALEXANDRIA 703-844-2818 GOLDFISHSWIMSCHOOL.COM/ALEXANDRIA

Goldfish Swim School

join the wave

W Regional Manager Tommy Hamilton

the perpetual lessons model includes: • One lifeguard certified instructor for every four children • Year-round swim lessons for children 4 months to 12 years and for swimmers of all abilities • The proprietary The Science of SwimPlay® Curriculum focuses on teaching swim and safety skills while building character through guided play • Flexible scheduling to accommodate even the busiest family’s schedule • And much, much more!

6 | May 2019

hile the Old Town Crier doesn’t typically write about franchised businesses in this space, I couldn’t help but want to tell you about Goldfish Swim School. I think it goes hand-in-hand with Mother’s Day as well as being a pretty cool addition to Alexandria.

I met with Tommy Hamilton, the Regional Manager, for a few minutes to get a bit of local information and to check out the facility. Located in Alexandria Commons (formerly Hechinger’s Commons) mall in the 3100 Block of Duke Street – yes, they did indeed install a swimming pool inside the space that also houses the ABC Store and Glory Days Grill. I was amazed when I walked in. It is a total transformation from what is outside. I will let the accompanying photos tell the story. It truly is an amazing space. If I had kids, I would definitely consider enrolling them here just so I could go hang out in the space while they were getting lessons.

As with most businesses these days, the website for Goldfish has a wealth of information and rather than recreate what they have already so eloquently penned, I want to reference some of it here: Goldfish Swim School was created by parents, for

parents, with this goal in mind — to give kids the platform to build essential life skills that will help them make waves in life. We have created an inviting and safe place where kids overcome their fears, learn to swim, respect the water and have lots of fun while doing it. Our awardwinning tropical environment and shiver-free pools are simply the fun backdrop for where kids do some serious growing and learning. So while they are focused on the serious stuff, your family will be focused on the fun. It’s what we call The Science of SwimPlay®.

It’s about momentum.

Forward movement, growth.

It’s about showing kids that they are something, will be something and, whether that’s the next president or a role in the school play, that something will be undeniably them. As parents, we know there’s no greater feeling than the pride that comes with witnessing your child accomplish new skills — that’s why we are always celebrating at Goldfish. Because every little dose of achievement adds up to big self-esteem.

And after all, life is one big pool. At Goldfish Swim School, we are there to give kids the courage to dive in.

At our premier swim school, your child will learn everything they need to develop their swimming

abilities and boost their cognitive development.

Our amazing and patient instructors will teach your child how to swim in the shiver-free pool, and with our wide range of programs and classes, you’ll be able to find the perfect program for your family. We offer swimming lessons for infants, toddlers, and children between the ages of 4 months and 12 years old.

The Programs Family Swim Enjoy Tropical Family Fun All Year Whether you want to help your children practice their swimming skills or your family needs some bonding time, a Family Swim is a great way to spend an afternoon.

Enjoy your day or evening in our shiver-free pool that’s heated to a pleasant 90°.

Parties Creating Lifelong Memories From birthday parties to summer kickoffs, nothing says “party” like a warm pool that’s exclusively decorated for a boy or girl’s special day. Goldfish Swim School can put together the party of your child’s dreams and take care of all of the details, setup and cleanup for you.

Parties that include 24 guests or less are coordinated BUSINESS PROFILE > PAGE 7

Old Town Crier

Old TOwn Shoe & luggage Repair

BUSINESS PROFILE | FROM PAGE 6

by two certified lifeguards that will also help with the event.

We’ll plan to have additional lifeguards if you’d like to invite more than 24 guests.

Swim Force The “Golden Experience”

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

Competition and teamwork build character. Students who progress through our Pro Level swim classes will receive a unique opportunity to join Swim Force. This fun and friendly competition experience provides children with the motivation they need to continually improve their skills. This swim team environment also allows for character-building at the heart of our “Golden Experience.”

Jump Start Clinics The Fastest Way to Achieve Your Goals Goldfish Swim School’s unique Jump Start Clinics are specially designed for families looking to get their kids water-ready in a hurry. They’re a great way to introduce kids to the fundamentals of water safety, take full advantage of school vacations, get peace-ofmind before a water-centric vacation or even start the journey to an Olympic gold medal. These clinics are so effective, they guarantee you’ll

824 King Street Old Town Alexandria, Virginia 703.299.0655 Mon-Fri 7:30 am-7 pm • Sat 9 am-5 pm see significant improvement in your child’s swimming skills in just four or five short days!

may is water safety month!

Recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) announced that it has published updated recommendations on water safety to prevent drowning in children. As parents and founders of Goldfish Swim School we too are committed to education on water safety. We commend the AAP for making these very important changes. We appreciate the attention put on the value of swim lessons being beneficial for children at a young age, in addition to the importance of vetting experienced swim lesson programs and well-trained instructors.

As drowning remains the number one cause of injury-related death among children ages 1-4, we must all work together to provide education, resources, and lessons for prevention.

As Goldfish Swim School continues to expand its footprint across North America, our number one focus and main priority will remain the same – education children on water safety while teaching them how to swim and respect the water.

“Swim”cerely, Chris and Jenny McCuiston Founders

Old Town Crier

May 2019 | 7

FINANCIAL FOCUS

W

hen financial markets fluctuate, even the calmest investors can start to question their financial strategies. But volatile markets can present opportunities, says Tracie McMillion, head of global asset allocation strategy for Wells Fargo Investment Institute (WFII).

“Financial markets are frequently volatile—that’s their nature,” she says. “Over longer periods of time, that volatility can add up to attractive portfolio growth.”

McMillion shares an analogy that compares this worry to seasickness: “If you stare at the waves directly ahead of you (the current financial market), the water may look bumpy and turbulent, and you might feel ill at ease. However, if you look outward at the horizon (your long-term investment goals), the ocean as a whole appears to be on a fairly even keel.”

In addition to focusing 8 | May 2019

CARL TREVISAN, CFP© & STEPHEN BEARCE

on your financial horizon, here are some strategies you can use to help weather economically turbulent times.

Match your investments to your time horizon.

The simplest way to feel more comfortable about your investments is to align them with your financial calendar, no matter what happens in the financial world this month or year. For example, do you need some of your money fairly soon, or want it close at hand in case of an emergency?

If so, McMillion says you should consider investments such as cash holdings and short-term bonds that shouldn’t lose much, if any, value over the short term.

On the other hand, if you won’t need some of your investment money until you retire multiple years in the future, equities or longer-term bonds are worth a closer look.

Those investments carry more risks but also offer potentially better returns.

Know what to expect from your assets.

Some investors lose confidence because they don’t fully understand how their investments work. In that case, McMillion says, some knowledge of typical asset behavior is a good thing.

Consider reading up on different types of investments and asking questions of your financial advisor. Once you know how your investments are more likely to perform in certain financial markets, you can help ensure that your investment strategy is in line with your tolerance for risk.

Tune out the noise.

By “noise” McMillion means the constant barrage of financial reports from the 24/7 news media. “It’s common for the financial markets to temporarily get a little bit messy as they sort through the current news cycle,” she says.

However, investors usually don’t need to react to the

everyday financial news, no matter how topsy-turvy things may seem. “Remember: The U.S. news tends to report on a very small slice of available investments, particularly U.S. large company stocks,” she says. “Your portfolio, if it’s diversified as it should be, probably isn’t going up and down to the same degree as these stocks. Your portfolio changes are probably much more moderate.”

Regularly revisit your plan.

There’s no such thing as a completely set-it-andforget-it investment strategy, McMillion says. It’s always smart to check in regularly with your investment advisor.

“Your life circumstances may change, or your financial goals could shift,” she says. “You’ll feel much more confident that your investments are doing their job if you review them regularly with your advisor.”

Wells Fargo Investment Institute, Inc. is a registered investment adviser and wholly owned subsidiary of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., a 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 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. © 2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

Old Town Crier

THE LAST WORD

MIRIAM R. KRAMER

The Flowers of Yesteryear

I

n her debut novel, Lilac Girls, and its recently released prequel, Lost Roses, author Martha Hall Kelly tells the story of resilient women torn apart by the conflicts and revolutions in twentieth-century Europe, and how they unite to flower together in an unexpected fashion. When the winds of war screech across the land, tossing dead leaves and tearing the twigs that skitter across flowerbeds, these dormant blooms wait for a sun yet to come.

In Lilac Girls, released in 2016, Kelly introduces us to three women who must choose roles within the terrible play of the Second World War. Caroline Ferriday, a New York society woman, philanthropist, and former Broadway actress, has chosen to volunteer at the French Consulate in New York.

When Hitler invades Poland in September of 1939, she scrambles to continue sending care packages to orphanages in France while helping dazed refugees arriving in a United States that is granting fewer and fewer visas.

Old Town Crier

In Lublin, Poland, Kasia Kuzmerick, a Catholic teenager, decides after the German invasion to work for the Polish underground and resist the Nazis. Doctor Herta Oberheuser, a cold, driven German doctor who wants to be a surgeon, battles sexism in a world where women are supposed to remain domestic and procreate to populate Nazi Germany. When offered a government position as a camp physician at a Nazi reeducation camp, she takes the challenge to prove herself as a medical professional.

When Caroline meets a famous Parisian actor, Paul Rodierre, she falls in love. Despite returning her affections, he decides to return home to aid his estranged part-Jewish wife, who is in danger from Nazi collaborators. In the meantime, Kasia and Herta’s actions put them on a collision course that will leave them both collateral damage from the war in markedly different ways, survivors who will inadvertently cross paths with Caroline after the war.

In Kelly’s prequel, Lost

Roses, released last month, the author brings us into the Ferriday family’s struggles during the First World War. Here Caroline’s mother, Eliza Woolsey Mitchell Ferriday, takes center stage, while Caroline is only a child.

Eliza has become close with Sofya Streshnayva, a Russian noblewoman and cousin to the Romanovs. On a trip to visit Sofya in St. Petersburg, Eliza sees the bubbling unrest in the streets that foreshadows the Russian Revolution, and returns home with a growing sense of concern for her Russian friend and her family.

As Austria declares war on Serbia, the two are torn apart by the onset of war. Aristocrat Sofya and her family escape St. Petersburg with her newborn, Max. They leave for their country estate to find safety outside the city. There she hires a local peasant, a fortuneteller’s daughter named Varinka, who becomes dangerously obsessed with her son. As the Streshnayva family takes Varinka into their home, Varinka’s halfbrother, Taras, a newly minted Bolshevik, becomes equally

obsessed with overthrowing the nobility he envies and despises.

While Eliza Ferriday organizes work and lodging for refugee White Russians in New York, Sofya embarks on a harrowing quest across Europe to find her son, whom Varinka has snatched away.

While appearing a hothouse rose, she vows to prove tougher than she looks.

Martha Hall Kelly has joined a trendy crowd of writers penning popular historical novels about World War II in particular.

In basing her stories on a real family of strong women and their descendants, however, she sets herself apart and makes a unique contribution to the genre. Her stories will suit those who love historical fiction, New Yorkers, and cosmopolitan European travelers, along with characters who manage to survive against all expectations.

Eliza and Caroline Ferriday were cultured and active humanitarians descended from Caroline Carson Woolsey Mitchell, a famous abolitionist and philanthropist in her own right. Eliza’s

husband, Henry, from Louisiana, owned a successful dry goods store. He imparted his love of France to his family.

With apartments in Paris and New York, the women stayed in the fray of high society politics and held fundraisers for their causes. Their Connecticut country home, The Hay, and their Southampton estate sometimes housed refugees from across Europe, to the dismay of many elitist neighbors.

As Kelly writes in her author’s note, the Ferriday family cherished and cultivated flowers wherever they were. Henry Ferriday particularly loved the lilacs that were hardy enough to survive and bloom after a hard winter, even though he died too early to see them appear at The Hay, which he had bought shortly before his death.

In using the true history of this family of New Yorkers as the springboard for her novels, Kelly celebrates real bonds that developed and persisted between such individuals across the Atlantic and among the horrors of war, deprivation, and revolution.

She finds great beauty in these war-time friendships and romances, many of which survived and even flourished despite numerous obstacles thrown in their way.

May 2019 | 9

HIGH NOTES

RON POWERS

Photo: Stacie Huckeba

O

n Cash Cabin Sessions, Vol. 3 Todd Snider employs the great forms of Folk, Blues, and Country to frame his views on life, love, and politics.

Using bare-bone arrangements, Snider continues in the centuriesold tradition of American Roots music and brings us a collection of picture-perfect songs.

The first thing that struck me about Cash Cabin was its parallels to Bob Dylan’s second studio album The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan. At times, Snider’s vocal is strikingly similar to Dylan’s. Snider also has a wit and charm which bears a resemblance. These similarities feel much less like mimicry though. It’s more a case of being cut from the same cloth.

Cash Cabin begins with a tune called “Working on a Song”. Here, Snider poetically expresses the often heartbreaking experience of chasing a dream. This song’s emotional impact is largely expressed through the way Snider sings it. There’s a touching vulnerability to his delivery. You almost hear tears welling up as he sings the lines.

Next, we hear a more playful song called “Talking Reality Television Blues”.

This is one of my favorites off the LP. Here, Snider takes us on an abbreviated journey through the history of Television and makes a thought-provoking connection between it and the current state of American politics. It’s songs like these that put Todd Snider in the rare class of musicians who actually have something to say.

understands to be the corrupt corporations running the planet.

Snider is no people pleaser. He makes it crystal clear what he thinks about certain power structures. Yet he always maintains a lightness and humility which distinguishes him from just another angry protester railing against the greedy fat cats.

Snider uses the blues to do what the blues does best. Namely taking a bad situation and making something true and beautiful out of it. He also understands how to employ the power of story through song. This is most evident on the endearing introduction tracks to “Cowboy Jack Clement’s Waltz” and “Watering Flowers in the Rain”. Here, we listen to Snider deliver brief narratives introducing each song. This sparks new interest in the album and creates anticipation for the songs that follow.

There’s a playful honesty to Cash Cabin and an intimacy which draws a listener in. You feel like you’re just hanging out with the songwriter while he shows you these new tunes he’s drummed up.

Snider’s influences include some of the greatest musicians of our time. Cash Cabin Sessions, Vol. 3 is convincing evidence that some of that greatness has rubbed off.

If you would like to listen to Cash Cabin Sessions, Vol 3 you can find it on Apple Music, Google Music, Spotify etc. Snider has appeared locally at the Birchmere in Alexandria so watch their schedule for an upcoming gig. To learn more about the artist, visit his website at ToddSnider.net

Cash Cabin Sessions, Vol. 3

10 | May 2019

BY TODD SNIDER

Cash Cabin isn’t just a quaint collection of well written tunes. At times it’s as if nature herself is possessing Snider, breathing a message to the world. This is most evident on songs like “A Timeless Response to Current Events”. Here we get a glimpse into the historic knowledge, and social/political insight Snider has.

Whether you agree with him or not, you have to hand it to him for having an opinion.

Snider continues with this socially conscious theme with “The Blues on Banjo”. On this song, Snider delivers scathing indictments against who he

Old Town Crier

The

History

of Wine is Here Mark Your Calendars for the

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May 2019 | 11

GALLERY BEAT

F. LENNOX CAMPELLO

The Fountain by Michal Hunter

The Adventurer by Judy Jashinsky

I

f you’ve read this column in the twenty years or so that I’ve been writing it, then chances are that you have read me telling artists a couple of decades ago how important it was for them to establish an Internet presence – a “digital footprint” was what I called it back then.

The importance of that dawned on me for a few reasons.

I bought my first personal computer in 1986 when I was a graduate student in Monterey.

It was an “Amiga.” By 1992 the Internet was making its seminal presence important enough to be noticed that I created my first website on a platform long gone called GeoCities. Right around that time I created another website, which is still around and still gets a lot of visits, focused on my interest on the original people of Scotland: the Picts.

Just like now, back then I used to write a lot about art, and began to notice that many “well-known” local artists in the mid-1990s did not have an Internet presence. That’s when warning bells began to go off in my head about the ever-growing importance of Internet presence as both a research tool and also as an

12 | May 2019

artistic historical repository for artists.

In 1996 I created a website (also initially on GeoCities) for the Fraser Gallery, then a 400 square feet space in Canal Square in Georgetown. By 2002, which is when we had opened a second Fraser Gallery in Bethesda, the website was getting over two million visits a year and Sotheby’s was exploring the possibility of auctioning art via the Internet, while the Washington Post had just finished its internal debate about having the newspaper go online. Back then I used to write art reviews for the Post, which were only published online – almost like a “baby steps” approach that the Post took before embarking on a “full” online presence.

In the three decades since, my predictions about digital footprints have not only proven quite right on target, but also have become even more important to the business of art and the business of existing as an artist.

And yet I give you the same advice: If you are an artist, then grow and expand your digital footprint – the “how” and more “whys” can be acquired easily if you put a tiny bit of effort into it.

Waters of Remembrance by Michael Janis

DC Art Collection Did you know that Washington, DC has an “official” art collection? And did you know that it contains artwork not only by DC-based artists, but also by a lot of DMV artists. I bring this up because most years I sit on the DC Commission of the Arts and Humanities panel which selects the artworks that the city buys for its collection – I am always astounded by the relative low number of artists who apply and submit artwork for consideration.

The submission process is all online and free – so there are no excuses other than apathy.

Most of the city’s collection is housed in the Wilson Building, and most of you have probably walked or driven by this gorgeous building a dozen times in the past without being aware that this is the place where the District’s business as a city take place. The building is very beautiful, and the insides incorporate and marry the building original neo-

classical appeal with a modern sense of stainless steel and minimalist design in places.

Entry to the building is free.

When you walk around, work which will require some good detailed attention are the photographs by Prescott Moore Lassman, which when associated with the story behind them (the subjects were the people in one of the first integrated churches in the nation), seems to merit some extra time studying them. Prescott’s skills with the camera to capture the essence and depth of a moment, while making the image burst with attention-grabbing intrigue, is what makes his work special.

Also note “In Red,” a beautiful canvas full of Tom Green’s invented symbols, which also appealed to me based on my interest in “text” in art. As such I had to take the opportunity to also visit to Mark Cameron Boyd’s “No Way to Convey,” and try to understand Mark’s fascinating GALLERY BEAT > PAGE 13

Old Town Crier

Michael Clark, Robin Rose, James Huckenpahler and others are also augmented by very good works by Pat Goslee, Jiha Moon, Lisa Montag Brotman, Anil Revri, Michele Banks, Judith Peck, and Andrew Wodzianski.

There are still a lot of empty walls in this building… know what I mean?

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process to create art out of textual references.

Somewhere along the walk in the building, you will discover Judy Jashinsky’s 1980s vintage portrait of former Corcoran photography curator Philip Brookman. The portrait survives the closing of the museum and school.

Tucked away in the furthest corner of a hall is Michal Hunter’s “The Fountain,” an overtly sensual 1981 painting by one of Washington’s top realists. There is no nudity in this work of two women enjoying the sun and refreshing themselves in a public fountain. But there’s

plenty of implied sensuality and Eros in this work, which may be the sexiest public art piece in the nation’s capital.

The DC glass gods are also well represented in this collection (although so far ignored by most DC area museums and curators, while at the same time being picked up by other American museums), with two mixed media pieces by Tim Tate and Michael Janis.

The city collection is also well stocked with some of the District’s top names from the “old school”, such as Gene Davis, Jacob Kainen and Felrath Hines, while still active well-known names such as John Winslow, Sam Gilliam,

HE A

GALLERY BEAT | FROM PAGE 12

Email info@alidaanderson.com to order – once this edition is sold out, it is gone forever!

May 2019 | 13

URBAN GARDEN

How to Grow Corn Poppies

C

orn poppies, (Papaver rhoeas), also known as Flanders poppies, field poppies or Shirley poppies, are hardy annuals with vividly colored, papery red, pink or white blooms that rise above lacy foliage. The fuzzy stems reach heights of 2 feet and more at maturity. Easily grown by seed, corn poppies are often planted by state highway departments for spectacular displays of color along roadsides across the nation. Corn poppies are beautiful as cut flowers and the dried seed pops add interest to dry floral arrangements.

Step 1 Plant corn poppy seeds directly on top of cultivated soil. In mild climates, plant the seeds in late fall or early spring when soil temperatures are between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Corn poppies thrive in full sunlight and rich, well-drained soil. If the soil is poor, incorporate 2 to 14 | May 2019

Six Easy Steps 3 inches of compost or manure prior to planting.

Step 2 Water corn poppies when the top of the soil feels dry. Saturate the root zone thoroughly, as shallow waterings promote a shallow root system. For best results, water by hand with a hose or use a drip system to keep the foliage as dry as possible. If you use a sprinkler, water early in the day so the foliage has time to dry before evening. Soggy soil and damp foliage place the plant at risk of rot and fungal diseases.

Step 3 Spread 1 to 2 inches of mulch around the plants in the spring. An organic mulch such as shredded leaves or dry grass clippings keeps the roots cool, conserves moisture and prevents the growth of weeds.

As a general rule, poppies require no supplemental fertilization if granular fertilizer or compost are incorporated into the soil at planting time.

Step 5 Pinch off flowers as soon as they begin to fade. This process, called deadheading, prevents the plants from setting seed too early. Remove the bloom, along with the stem, down to the next leaf.

Step 6 Remove all seedpods at the end of the season if you don’t want the poppy to self-seed. If you want poppies next spring, allow a few pods to remain on the plants.

Things You Will Need: • Compost or manure • Garden hose or drip irrigation system • Mulch

Step 4

• Balanced liquid or granular fertilizer

Apply a balanced liquid or granular fertilizer if newly emerging foliage has a yellowish appearance. Use the fertilizer in accordance with label recommendations.

Publishers Note: This feature compliments of SFGate.com.

Old Town Crier

CALENDAR | FROM PAGE 3

setting of our Magnolia Terrace and enjoy personalized tableside service and scrumptious food catered by Calling Card Events for an unforgettable day. Registration required; no refunds.

All participants, including children under 5, must be registered. Ticket sales end May 5, 2019.

MAY 17TH – 19TH

Spring Wine Festival & Sunset Tour 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Admission: $48 for May 17; $52 for May 18; $42 for May 19 George Washington’s Mount Vernon 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy. 703-780-2000 www.mountvernon.org/springwine Join Mount Vernon for its most popular event of the year. Sample wines from Virginia’s finest wineries while enjoying spectacular views at the estate.

Celebrate the history of wine in Virginia with exclusive evening tours of the mansion and cellar and appearances

by George and Martha Washington.

Bring a blanket, relax on the east lawn

overlooking the scenic Potomac River and sample wines made in Virginia.

During tours of the mansion, visit the cellar where Washington stored his wine and learn about the successes and failures of our Founding Father’s endeavors with wine. All proceeds benefit the ongoing preservation and restoration of Mount Vernon and its educational programs. The event takes place rain or shine and all sales are final.

The

Experience

of Wine is Here

Find more spring events at www.

VisitAlexandriaVA.com/Spring.

ABOUT ALEXANDRIA, VA Named the #1 Best Value U.S. Travel Destination 2018 by Money magazine, a Top 5 Best Small City in the U.S. 2018 by the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards and one of the South’s Prettiest Cities 2018 by Southern Living, Alexandria hums with a cosmopolitan feel and a walkable lifestyle—a welcoming weekend escape next to our nation’s capital. A nationally designated historic district founded in 1749, Old Town Alexandria is home to more than 200 independent restaurants and boutiques alongside intimate historic museums and new happenings at the waterfront. At the heart of it all is bustling King Street, a walkable mile recognized as one of the “Great Streets” of America. New restaurants tucked in to 18thand 19th-century architecture still intact from the city’s days as George Washington’s hometown ignite historic and off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods as the waterfront district evolves with new energy. Learn more at www.

VisitAlexandriaVA.com.

6190 Georgetown Road, Broad Run, VA, 20137 www.PearmundCellars.com |540.347.3475

he restoration of the Tall Ship Providence is proceeding as scheduled. Two apprentices from the Alexandria Seaport Foundation and Marine Operations Manager, John Papenhausen, flew up last p Comi Shi ng week to assist with the l l Ta finishing work. The top Pr gallant and course spars o vid e nce will be fitted to the mast and all of the standing and running rigging will be laid and tuned. The new deck has been laid and the interior upgrades will be finished. It has been over a year of hard work and planning but the end is in sight.

Plymouth, Massachusetts, where on the 29th and will arrive at their According to Diana West, they will arrive on Saturday the second port stop, Newport, Rhode Director of Programs & 25th and be open to the public on Island, on the 31st, where they will Communications, they expect the Sunday the 26th and Monday the be open to the public at Bowen's ship to be finished by May 14th.

27th (Memorial Day). On Tuesday Wharf on Saturday and Sunday, Sea trials and crew training will evening they will be hosting a the 1st and 2nd of June. start on the 15th and on the 22nd small concert fundraiser before On the 3rd they will sail to there will be a small ceremony in departing the morning of the New London, Connecticut, where Wiscasset before the ship departs 29th. she will open in the evenings on on the First Voyage.

The Providence will be sailing Tuesday the 4th and Wednesday Their first stop will be in through the Cape Cod Channel the 5th. Thursday will be a day of

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to Alexandria

~ SHE WILL BE HERE SOON! ~

Old Town Crier

rest for the crew before they sail to Greenport, Long Island, where they will be open for the weekend of the 8th and 9th.

The ship will then head into blue water for a three-day sail to Norfolk, Virginia.

Assuming no weather delays, they will head over to Hampton for the weekend of the 15th and 16th.

The morning of the 17th they will sail to Annapolis, where they hope to arrive on the 19th. After a day or two of ship maintenance, they plan to be open to the public the weekend of the 22nd and 23rd.

The Providence will then head straight for Alexandria, where they plan to arrive on Thursday, June 27th (wind and weather permitting).

Sailing is not an exact science considering the effects of the wind. Check out this column in June for an update as to the adventure and the details leading up to her arrival.

May 2019 | 15

A BIT OF HISTORY

©2019 SARAH BECKER

Wounded soldiers being tended in the field after the Battle of Chancellorsville near Fredericksburg, Va., May 2, 1863. (111-B-349. National Archives Identifier: 524768)

Amputation being performed in a hospital tent, Gettysburg, July 1863. (79-T-2265. National Archives Identifier: 520203)

“I

n midnight sleep of many a face of anguish, Of the look at first of the mortally wounded, (of that indescribable look),” poet Walt Whitman wrote in 1867 in Old War Dreams. “Of the dead on their backs, with arms extended wide, I dream, I dream, I dream….Long have they pass’d, faces and trenches and fields, Where through the carnage I moved with a callous composure, or away from the fallen, Onward I sped at the time—but now of their forms at night, I dream, I dream, I dream.”

In 1861 the United States offered approximately 40 medical schools and six schools of pharmacy. Despite the seeming sophistication, Civil War hospitals were mostly makeshift. “The [Prince Street] house is commodious, and, for a confiscated dwelling, is very fine,” the Alexandria Gazette noted in 1864.

Alexandria’s Civil War hospitals included Prince Street Hospital, Lyceum Hall, Carlyle House, LeeFendall House and Episcopal Seminary. Also Prince Street’s L’Ouverture Hospital for colored troops. Medical and 16 | May 2019

other supplies were secured, in part, from Fairfax Street’s Leadbeater & Co. including Lamp Oil, Charcoal, Castile Soap, Laudanum and Morphine Sulph.

Virginia seceded from the Union on May 24, 1861, only to find the Federal Army ready to stake an Alexandria claim. Occupied Alexandria, a budding hospital town, served as an Army logistical supply center. It operated alongside the city of Washington, Georgetown and Aquia Creek.

“Still sweeping the eye around down the river toward Alexandria, we see, to the right, the locality where the Convalescent Camp stands, with its five, eight, or sometimes ten thousand inmates,” Walt Whitman penned. Whitman, a New Yorker, traveled to

Washington in 1862 to search for his brother George, missing in the Battle of Fredericksburg. He called infirmaries the “marrow of tragedy.”

Civil War hospitals were not equipped to deal with battlefield casualties. Nor the nation’s deteriorating health. “‘Camp Misery was the title at first bestowed on the Alexandria, Va. [convalescent] camp,” Holland Thompson wrote. “The buildings were poorly ventilated and poorly drained and in wet weather stood in a sea of mud. The death rate in the convalescent camp was higher than at most hospitals or prisons. This was partly due to the fact that unoccupied soldiers are far

more liable to disease than the soldier at work.”

About 620,000 soldiers died during the Civil War. Two-thirds of the soldiers died from disease. Diarrhea, the Tennessee quickstep was a common malady. It is associated with dysentery (intestinal worms), typhoid (enteric fever), and other infectious diseases. Union outbreaks were usually related to poor sanitation practices including fecal-contaminated water supplies.

“This city of Alexandria as you know has not a single sewer,” a Union Captain noted. “All filth is allowed to drain itself into the gutters and thence to the [Potomac] river. It is quite sickly here.”

Whitman recalled a wounded New York soldier “low with chronic diarrhea.”

“Spent a good part of the

day in a large brick mansion [Lacy House now Chatham Manor], on the banks of the Rappahannock, used as a hospital,” Walt Whitman wrote in 1862. “Outdoors, at the foot of a tree, within ten yards of the front of the house, I notice a heap of amputated feet, legs, arms, hands, &c., a full load from a one-horse cart. Several dead bodies lie near….”

In 1862 amputation was a popular surgery; the ambulance system was underdeveloped and triage was an untested concept.

There were no antibiotics and surgical procedures were performed only to save a life.

Whitman characterized a gangrenous New Hampshire soldier as a man “sure to lose three toes.”

Dental surgeon William T. Morton first demonstrated the anesthetic power of ether in 1846. “When the rebellion broke out Morton made an arrangement with the Government that, when he was telegraphed to ‘bring that truck,’ he was to understand that his own body was meant, that an engagement was A BIT OF HISTORY > PAGE 17

Old Town Crier

The Wine is Here

T R I FEC TA TA S T I N G E X P Let’s get social

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COLUMNIST’S NOTES Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) tells me that the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R.7 the Paycheck Fairness Act on March 27, 2019. (Equal Pay Day/OTC/ April 2019). The Act amends “the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide more effective remedies to victims of discrimination in the payment of wages on the basis of sex, and for other purposes.” The Act was given to the U.S. Senate and awaits a final vote. To track the Act’s progress visit https://www.congress.gov/bill/116thcongress/house-bill/7/text.

My thanks to those readers who continue to inquire regarding the benefits of CBD. (Hemp’s Hectic History/OTC/Oct. 2018). I refer you to the May 2019 issue of Consumer Reports: From the President (p. 6) and CBD Goes Mainstream (p.

44). “We are…taking a close look at…CBD, the widely used cannabis compound that is turning up in more and more products,” President and CEO Marta L. Tellado wrote. “CBD may have the potential to deliver many benefits , but only if we have confidence in the products we buy…CR would like to undertake the most ambitious safety testing of CBD-infused products ever….” For more information visit CRTestsCBD.com.

Old Town Crier

GEORGETOWN

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impending,” Harpers New Monthly magazine wrote in 1865. “During the ten days fighting at the battle of the Wilderness and Spotsylvania Court House, there were, according to official reports, twenty thousand wounded men.”

“After a battle the ambulance wagons were rushed to the front and loaded with the wounded, who were brought to the rear and spread upon the ground,” Harpers continued. “The experienced surgeons then passed among them, probing the wounds, and pinning upon each man, who required an operation, a ticket, designating the nature of the operation.

The wounded that needed immediate operations were removed to a secluded spot and laid in a row. Then Dr. Morton passed from one to the other, administered ether or chloroform, at the rate of three minutes to the man, and without a single failure prepared them for the knife. He was followed by the surgeon who performed the operation, leaving the dressing of the wound to the less experienced….”

Walt Whitman worked as a hospital volunteer in both Alexandria and Washington.

Cherry syrup, horehound candy and money were among his favorite bedside offerings.

In time Whitman, born May 31, 1819 learned how to treat bad throats, empty blood pails, and feed patients salt pork and hard tack.

“Where in Washington is the house in which Walt Whitman—printer’s devil, compositor, carpenter, country school teacher, editorial writer, publisher,

Whitman of his “desire for tramp, hospital orderly, good, strong green tea.” A Federal employee, and remedy still suggested today. immortal poet—resided?”

“I never before so realized The Washington Post asked. the majesty and reality of the “In 1863 he disclosed he American common people was paying $7 a month for a proper,” Whitman said in ‘bright little third-story front 1875. “Over the whole land room’ at 1407 L Street NW.” [there has been] an unending, “The hospital service, universal mourning wail of the lint, bandages and women, parents, orphans. medicines,” Whitman wrote Future years will never know in Drum Taps. “The women the seething hell and black volunteering for nurses, the infernal background…of the work begun for in earnest, no Secession War; and it is best mere parade now; War! an they should not.” arm’d race is advancing! the “That the hands of the welcome for battle, no turning sisters of Death and Night away….” incessantly softly wash again, Clara Barton began and ever again, this soil’d her nursing career during world,” Whitman wrote in the Civil War. Whitman Reconciliation, “my enemy is and Barton first met in dead, a man divine as myself Fredericksburg’s Lacy House is dead. I look where he lies [Chatham Manor]. He found white-faced and still in the so many human fragments coffin—I draw near, Bend there, “cut, bloody, black and down and touch lightly with blue, swelled and sickening.” my lips the white face in the Soldiers often arrived at coffin.” the hospitals “at the rate of We celebrate Walt 1000 a day.” They came in Whitman—“The poet of the volume by modified rail car body, And the poet of the and government steamer. soul”—in this his 200th year.

Whitman did not need to be present to hear “the clank of crutches on the pavements.”

Sarah Becker started writing for Consistently voted the Best Award winning wines and a NOW OPEN!while a graduate “Most of them are Winery in Virginia, unique experience await you The Economist Start your day of tastings at Pearmund Cellars is the at Vint Hill Craft Winery. entirely without friends or Effingham & Winery. Similar cornerstone of the trio.

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Trotters Ridge Place, 6190 Georgetown Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187 acquaintances here,” Whitman 14325 publications followed. She joined Nokesville, VA, 20181 Broad Run, VA, 20137 540.351.0000 703.594.2300 540.347.3475 www.VintHillCraftWinery.com noted, “hardly a judicious the Crier in 1996 while serving www.EffinghamManor.com www.PearmundCellars.com Open Friday to Sunday word of sympathy or cheer, Open Daily, 11am-7pm Convention Open Daily, 10am-6pm 11am-6pm on the Alexandria through their sometimes long and Visitors Association Board. and tedious sickness, or the Her interest in antiquities began pangs of aggravated wounds.” as a World Bank hire, with “All, all know grief, and, Indonesia’s need to generate at the close, All lie earth’s hard currency. Balinese history, spreading arms within…For i.e. tourism provided the means. there’s a calm to throbbing The New York Times describes hearts, And rest down in the ‘ Best White Wine Becker’s book, Off Your Duffs & Best in tomb,” Whitman reckoned in Up‘the Assets, Hybrid as “a blueprint in the Country ’ We All Shall Rest At Last. for thousands of nonprofit ’ the Country Pearmund Cellars Few medicines cured what managers. ” A formerManor museum Effingham Petit Manseng ailed. Most were alleviative. director, SLAM’s saving grace Traminette -San Francisco Some were administered in Sarah received Alexandria’s International Wine -American Wine Society the form of brewed teas. A Salute to Women Award in Competition New Jersey soldier, stricken 2007. Email: abitofhistory53@ gmail.com with pneumonia, told

HE A

A BIT OF HISTORY | FROM PAGE 16

May 2019 | 17

POINTS ON PETS

CHARISSA PALLAS

W

hat does it mean to adopt a pet with special needs?

Adopting and caring for a pet with special needs can be quite a rewarding experience and often not as harrowing as imagined. Pets with special needs come in all shapes and sizes with varying needs. Some experience mental challenges, like anxiety or depression, while others experience physical challenges like missing limbs and sight or hearing loss.

Others experience internal challenges, like heart or kidney disease. Aging pets also fit into this category because many will experience changes to their sight, hearing or organ functions during their later years.

What is it like to care for a pet with special needs?

It can be difficult until you understand the pet’s situation and what is needed. Once you understand what’s going on, routine sets in and whatever seemed abnormal in the beginning rapidly becomes the new norm.

OJ relaxing on his Penthouse Condo

Adopting a Pet with Special Needs Bean and Jazzy Two of our three cats have special needs, and I’m happy and blessed to tell you I’ve had them since they were kittens and they are now 14 and 15 years old. Mya, or Bean as we like to call her, is experiencing hearing loss, a common ailment in senior cats. Jasper, aka Jazzy or Buster McKittyface, suffers occasional seizures, has lost sight in one eye and recently developed kidney disease, a possible side effect from years of taking phenobarbital to reduce the frequency and

ADOPTION CALENDAR

severity of the seizures.

Bean is basically the same cat she always was with the addition of more frequent and louder meowing (often in the dead of the night) and new acts of bravery involving the vacuum monster, which no longer frightens her because she can’t hear it. We haven’t had to change our routine other than making an effort not to sneak up on her. Jazzy requires meds twice a day (hooray for pill pockets!) and though his seizures are mostly controlled now, he still has them occasionally so we try to limit the amount of

www.kingstreetcats.org emai: contact@kingstreetcats.org

KING STREET CATS 25 Dove Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 Every Saturday and Sunday from 1.30pm-4.30pm

Are you or someone you know free during weekday mornings? King Street Cats is looking for weekday morning caregivers and vet taxis to transport our cats to the vet. Please email: contact@kingstreetcats.org for details.

PETVALU Bradlee Shopping Center, 3652 King St, Alexandria, VA 22302 Every Sat/Sun from 1pm-4pm

FOR DETAILS AND MORE INFO

King Street Cats is looking for foster homes! You provide the spare room and TLC and we can provide food, litter and all vetting. Please email: contact@kingstreetcats.org for details.

18 | May 2019

hard surfaces he could slide into during an episode. He enjoys eating, sleeping, lazing around, stealing our popcorn and bothering us for breakfast at 4am. On most days, you’d never know he has anything wrong with him at all.

They both need semiannual vet visits and extra blood work because they are seniors and Jazzy, especially, needs to be monitored for organ functionality. We also feed him a diet low in phosphorus to help keep his kidney disease under control.

Jaime, a contributor to this section and a King Street Cats

volunteer, recently shared the most beautiful story of human kindness and animal resilience with me. She and her husband recently became the proud parents of a little tripod kitten they named OJ (for orange joker because his mouth looks like “The Joker”).

Jaime’s husband, John, feeds a small colony of feral cats in the District and on a frigid night in January, noticed OJ was separated from the other kittens and hanging by one front paw onto a parking grate. He managed to free OJ and rushed him to the VCA Alexandria Emergency Vet on Duke Street. The entire time John was driving the car he wasn’t sure if OJ was dead or alive.

Soon after, they brought OJ home, less one left leg and several inches of his tail. When they amputate a cat’s leg, unlike with dogs, they remove the entire leg, including the shoulder. He was diagnosed with hypothermia and frostbite and they weren’t even sure he’d survive. The vets (it took a village) also thought that, due POINTS ON PETS > PAGE 19

PETCO UNLEASHED 1101 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202 Every first Sat & third Sat from 1pm-4pm PETCO UNLEASHED 1855 Wisconsin Avenue, Washington, DC 20007 Every fourth Sat/Sun from 12pm-3pm THE DOG PARK 705 King Street, Alexandria, VA22314 Every second Saturday from 1pm-4pm

Old Town Crier

POINTS ON PETS | FROM PAGE 18

to the size of one of his pupils, he could have brain damage.

After a couple of weeks of confinement, antibiotics and painkillers, he was let out into the general population with their other pets. Then, one day, almost overnight, he was running, leaping, climbing on top of the five-foot plus tall cat condo and terrifying Jaime and John. He doesn’t seem to know he has fewer legs than he is supposed to. He climbs with one front leg, scratches the scratching post, with one leg - there’s really nothing he can’t do. If you had asked Jaime and John if they knew how to care for a tripod cat, they would have said no, but everyday they feel more and more comfortable with it as it becomes the new norm for their family.

If you are interested in adopting a pet with special needs, what do you need to do first? Though the actions and type of care will vary depending on the specific need, the following steps apply to all situations and should be taken before adopting a pet with special needs: Research the potential pet’s condition and consult with a licensed veterinarian regarding any extra care steps that need to be taken.

Don’t be shy – ask about how frequently you should bring your new furry friend in for a check-up, estimated costs, whether a special

diet is needed, if changes to your home environment are recommended, and freely discuss any reservations you have.

Do some soul searching and discuss with anyone living with you – are you all ready and able to commit to a routine that could be challenging when schedules change or you’re going out of town? Can you handle this for the entire life of the pet?

Examine your financial situation to ensure you’ll have enough to provide for any specific needs. Your discussion with the vet should shed some light on estimated costs.

If you’re planning to adopt, I hope reading this has encouraged you to give a pet with special needs a chance.

No matter what their physical or mental challenges are, their most pressing special need is your love.

I hope you come away from reading this with an increased understanding of what it feels like to care for a pet with special needs and an enhanced appreciation for the remarkable resilience of our furry friends.

Best. Gift. Ever!

Adopt-A-Manatee

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for Friends and Family 1-800-432-JOIN (5646) savethemanatee.org Photo © David Schrichte

Charissa Pallas volunteers as an adoption counselor for King Street Cats. She lives in Alexandria and is not the least bit worried about cats outnumbering the humans living in her home.

PETS OF THE MONTH

ROCKY

4101 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 703-746-4774 alexandriaanimals.org Mon-Fri, 1-8 pm Closed Wed Sat & Sun, 12-5 pm

AIMEE

SASSY

Young, Male, Black Mouse

Adult, Spayed Female, Grey Tabby Domestic Shorthair

Adult, Spayed Female, Brown and Black Boxer

ROCKY might not be a flying squirrel but he’s still quite the jokester! He’s working on his standup comedy routine, starting with comments on the weather - “I’m not going outside! It’s raining cats and dogs!” - and riff at his friends - “Mickey sounds like he could use some oil. Have you heard the way he squeaks?” This comedic little mouse is always ready to show off for the audience, and he’d love to show off for you!

Hello! I’m AIMEE and I’m a one of a kind gal because I love every cat I meet! I have lots of feline friends in my staff office and would love to have a kitty sibling in my future family. I can be a little unsure about meeting new people but with another whiskered friend by my side, I’ll show you just want a cuddly lady I can be!

SASSY is a Boxer who loves life! While her shelter-given name may be Sassy; her true identity is Wiggle Bum! She’s the happiest girl in the world, and you’ll never find her without a smile and a tail waggle... well maybe when she’s sleeping! This sweet, sassy lady is looking for a home where she can go on all the adventures and have a cozy couch to crash on (what can we say, we think she deserves the best of both worlds!).

One glance at this charming lady, and you’ll want to take her home in a heartbeat... don’t believe us? Stop by the AWLA and give it a try!

Adop https://alexandriaanimals.org/animalprofile/?id=35715 https://alexandriaanimals.org/adoptioninformation/ Photo courtesy of Alison Lane Photography

https://alexandriaanimals.org/animalprofile/?id=32762 https://alexandriaanimals.org/adoptioninformation/ Photo courtesy of Shelley Castle Photography

https://alexandriaanimals.org/animalprofile/?id=35712 https://alexandriaanimals.org/adoptioninformation/ Photo courtesy of Dirty Paw Photography

Old Town Crier

May 2019 | 19

CARIBBEAN CONNECTION JEFF MCCORD

The Three Extraordinary Bucks of The Virgin Islands

I

t’s a curious fact that there is a small “Buck Island” located in the waters off each of the Virgin Islands’ three principal isles: St. Croix; St. Thomas; and Tortola. Visitors might easily assume these “bucks” were named after male deer since white tail deer can be found there. Europeans reportedly introduced them to the islands in the 1700s for game.

Actually, though, each Buck Island was named

by European settlers for a remarkable local tree called buck wood, according to many sources including a St. John Historical Society paper. Known formally as lignum vitae, this native tree is stronger and more durable than mahogany, another local arboreal wonder.

Also known as ironwood, lignum vitae is so dense it sinks in salt water and has been used to make cricket balls, belaying pins on sailing vessels and propeller shaft bearings in World War II submarines. It’s so valuable that most trees were cut down long ago.

The biggest of the Virgin’s three Buck Islands is a couple miles off St. Croix, which was once Danish and now part of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

20 | April 2019

An early Danish map labels that Buck Island as “Bocken Eyland.”

English speakers later corrupted Bock into Buck.

Regardless, today the 176 acre island is an uninhabited gem of tropical dry forest surrounded mostly by crystalline white beaches and easily accessed coral reefs.

Because President John F. Kennedy took action to preserve the island in 1961, the Buck Island National Reef Monument off St. Croix is a major Caribbean eco-tourist attraction. The National Park Service explains its’ importance and allure: “Endangered and threatened species live and nest here: four species of sea turtles -- hawksbill, green, leatherback, and loggerhead -- and the St. Croix ground lizard. Elkhorn coral, the first listed marine invertebrate, surrounds two-thirds of the island. Elkhorn coral patch

reefs rise to the surface from the seabed as much as 40 feet below.”

To better enjoy the coral, Buck Island’s waters has one of only two underwater snorkeling trails in the United States. The other is right off Trunk Bay on St. John within the Virgin Islands National Park.

Beyond the coral, on Buck Island’s west end may be found Turtle Beach, one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean.

Buck Island can be visited with several charter boat operators based in nearby

Christiansted, St. Croix. Much of Christiansted, St. Croix’s capital, is a national historic site preserving fine Danish colonial buildings and a classic fort.

The Virgins’ second largest Buck Island is located about 4 miles south of St. Thomas’ main harbor at Charlotte Amalie and best known for its Turtle Cove and Danish lighthouse built in 1916. The tattered red lighthouse and island is now Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for migratory birds.

For most visitors, however, the island’s main attraction is Turtle Cove where snorkelers are almost guaranteed to see and, if quiet and gentle, follow sea turtles as they move slowly grazing sea grasses on the bottom and occasionally coming up to breathe. Each year, the Friends of the Virgin Islands National Park sponsors a snorkeling event for the public guided by a Fish

and Wildlife Service expert.

A boat from St. John takes guests to the Cove “to swim with green and hawksbill turtles that live there year round.”

For scuba divers, St. Thomas’ Buck Island waters also offer a historically significant ship wreck -- the Royal Mail Packet Steamer Wye. Now embedded in Wye Reef (named after her) on the southwestern side of the island, the RMS Wye went down during the infamous San Narciso hurricane on October 29, 1867. The storm struck St. Thomas with little warning in those pre-radar days. The Wye and her more famous sister ship, the RMS Rhone (sunk off Salt Island in the British Virgin Islands) were among the more than 60 major vessels lost in the Virgin Islands during what today NOAA estimates to have been a category three hurricane.

The officers of a British naval vessel, the HMS Doris, were among the early expert witnesses to the devastation in the days immediately following that storm. In his report to superiors, Captain Charles Vesey described CARIBBEAN CONNECTION > PAGE 21

CARIBBEAN CONNECTION FROM PAGE 20

the Wye’s attempt to escape Charlotte Amalie’s harbor as the hurricane struck: “The Wye [hastily] left St. Thomas in the charge of her Chief Officer -- the Captain being on shore -- and she steamed about [4] miles to the Westward when her compasses became useless from the amount of electricity in the atmosphere.

About 65 were drowned and about 11 saved, including the Chief Officer who had his arm badly broken. I have since heard that nearly 50 bodies are in a small Bay on Buck Island – but cannot be approached for sanitary reasons.”

In addition to making a good story, some hope the wreck of the Wye will become a tourist attraction.

St. Thomas Source reported in 2006 that maritime archaeologists from the University of Bristol explored “what’s left of the 210 foot Wye.” In and surrounding the coral, they found some hull structure, part of the keel and steam engine parts.

The waters of St. Thomas’ Buck Island may be visited

with several charter operators.

The Virgins’ third Buck Island is a short distance off Tortola (the principal British Virgin Island) within Sir Francis Drake Channel.

Because it’s privately owned, very little information is available about this 43 acre rocky island located only about a thousand feet from Tortola’s shoreline.

Presumably, it was once a ready source of buck wood for early European settlers.

One modern owner of Buck Island reportedly started building a bridge to Tortola.

Construction was halted, though, when it became clear the Island’s beach would be open for public use if connected to Tortola’s shoreline.

All three buck islands are beautiful and well worth preserving for future generations.

This column first appeared in this space in May of 2016.

Hurricanes Irma and Maria may have changed the landscape a bit but the islands have bounced back and are ready for your visit.

Escape to paradise Hillcrest Guest House is located within a residential area, rising two stories above Cruz Bay, on the crest of a hill and minutes from the beach and the US National Park, Virgin Islands.

Six suites available, $185-$235/day Call 340-776-6774 or 340-998-8388 hillcreststjohn.com

HH

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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April 2019 | 21

FROM THE BAY …

MOLLY WINANS

The Gents SUP Challenge 2018 Photos: Ben Cushwa/SpinSheet

The LadiesSUP Challenge 2018

Try SUP in Annapolis East of Maui offers SUP rentals, lessons, and group paddles on Tuesday evenings. eastofmauiboardshop.com Annapolis Canoe and Kayak offers SUP rentals, lessons, and group paddles on Tuesday evenings. annapoliscanoeandkayak.com Capital SUP offers rentals, lessons, SUP fitness, and race training. capitalsup.com Quiet Waters Park offers SUP basic and advanced courses, tours, and yoga. paddleorpedal.com/standupandyoga.html

22 | April 2019

What SUP? A

nyone who has lazy bones in their bodies, as I do, may not rush out to try a sport often touted as a “good core workout.” In fact, we may hear “blah, blah, work, blah” and avoid it. This, I fear, may be keeping some prospective stand-up paddleboarders from trying it.

They hear that old core workout bit and don’t bother.

Before I get to the part about racing, I want to emphasize the versatility of the standup paddleboard (SUP). Just as some wear their running shoes to run marathons and others don them to wander around eating ice cream cones, you don’t have to race or work hard with a paddleboard. Any paddleboard can be a great platform for quietly, slowly meandering in the shallows, bird-watching, sunset gawking, paddling on your knees, doing yoga poses (I prefer the corpse), sunbathing, napping, taking a little time out from your cruising partner, goofing off with kids, and delivering beer to fellow sailors in an anchorage. That you may be working your abdomen muscles a bit is a bonus.

I don’t share this because I get a commission if you buy a SUP; I explain it because there have only been a few sports I have tried in life that had me at hello, and one of them was paddleboarding. If you think of SUP as yet another toy in your water fun collection, just another way to enjoy the water, rather than the key to great abs, you may try it, too.

Those who do crave competition have more opportunities than ever. On July 13, East of Maui Boardshop of Annapolis will host its

Chesapeake Stand Up Challenge at Eastport YC (EYC). At this event, about 75 competitors in a wide age range show up to paddle a three-and-a-half-mile short course or a six-and-a-half-mile long course. SUP racers start at 9:30 a.m., some finishing around 11 a.m., and enjoy a party with awards, live music, and a keg at EYC. East of Maui also hosts mini-clinics and demos in the early afternoon. You have from May to July to hone your skills.

Annapolis racing sailor Shannon Hibberd has competed in the event. She writes, “The SUP Challenge was a blast! Very challenging for me as a first-timer (I’m still trying to learn proper paddling technique). I learned a ton at the race, which is part of the reason I wanted to do it.

I had a few more experienced paddleboarders giving me tips while I was out there (as they passed), which helped a lot.”

Like mine, Hibberd’s SUP is not meant for racing. For her, the top benefit of the race was meeting more SUP enthusiasts.

“The party was fun (loved the music and veggie burgers) and a great opportunity to meet up with other paddlers. I made a few connections with other beginners and compared notes about the race. I hope there will be more SUP racing events in the area, so I can keep challenging myself and hopefully improve my time.”

The managing editor of SpinSheet and PropTalk Magazines, Molly Winans explores the creeks on her paddleboard all summer long.

Old Town Crier

IT’S

Springtime IN CALVERT COUNTY! WE SHIP OUR AWARD WINNING CRABCAKES ANYWHERE IN THE USA! VOTED BEST CRAB CAKES IN SOUTHERN MARYLAND 2012 Maryland Life

After 2 long years...

HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS LIVE ACOUSTIC MUSIC • CRAB CAKE SHIPPING DOG FRIENDLY OUTDOOR PATIO • HALF PRICE WINE WEDNESDAY OUTDOOR DECK SEATING • TAKE OUT & CATERING • TRANSIENT SLIPS

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Target opening on Memorial Day weekend!

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WELCOME

Farmers’ Market

May 3 thru Oct 4 Every Friday 6 to 9 pm

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All Things North Beach Open for the Season

Spring is upon us!

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2019 SPECIAL EVENTS

JULY 20 at DUSK

Hound of the Town

MAY 18 / 4 to 10 PM

JUNE 21-23 North Beach American Film Festival

Movie on the Beach: Ralph Breaks the Internet

OCT 26 at 3 PM

Calvert County Relay for Life Relay by the Bay

JUNE 29 at 12 PM

AUGUST 17 at DUSK

9th Annual DrinkMaryland

Movie on the Beach: The Incredibles 2

JULY 3 at DUSK

SEPT 21 at DUSK

View Fireworks from the Boardwalk

Drive-In Movie: Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom

JUNE 8 / 9 AM to 4 PM 7th Annual End Hunger Dragon Boat Festival

JUNE 15 at DUSK Movie on the Beach: Bumblebee

OCT 26 at 12 PM

Boo Bash

NOV 29 at 7 PM Tree Lighting

DEC 7 at 10 AM Christmas Market on 5th Street

DEC 7 at 12 PM Holiday Parade / Santa & Christmas on the Beach

24 | May 2019

Old Town Crier

ROAD TRIP

T

his month we decided it would be a great opportunity to revisit the war memorials and military memorials in our Nations Capitol area. We try to make the trek at least once a year and the month of May is the perfect time - just after all of the Cherry Blossom traffic and just before the onslaught of summer tourists.

We will begin our journey on the National Mall adjacent to Constitution Gardens. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a 2-acre national memorial that pays tribute to the brave members of the United States Armed Forces who fought in the Vietnam War and were killed or missing in action (MIA). The Memorial consists of three separate parts: The Three Soldiers statue, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall…or simply, the “Wall”, which is the most popular feature. The memorial is free and open to the public 24 hours a day, with rangers on duty to answer questions from 9:30 am to 10 pm daily.

Perhaps the Memorial Wall’s most defining characteristic is a visitor’s ability to see his or her reflection at the same time as the engraved names, connecting the past and the present like few other monuments can. Of all my years in this area the only other places that demand this level of respect is Arlington Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial.

Just south of the wall is the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, which serves to commemorate the 265,000 women that served in the Vietnam War, many of whom worked as nurses. The 2,000 pound bronze structure stands 15 feet tall and depicts three women attending to a wounded soldier, reflecting the unity required during the struggle of the war.

The Three Soldiers (also known as the Three Servicemen) make up the third part of the Memorial.

The bronze statue that is another moving reminder of the disparate groups that had to come together during the Vietnam War. Each of the soldiers stands seven feet tall, situated on top of a one-foot granite base. One is European American, one is African American and the other is Hispanic American, with the statute arranged as if to show the three soldiers gazing upon the Memorial Wall at the names of their fellow comrades.

At the other end of the reflecting pool you will find the Old Town Crier

BOB TAGERT

Celebrate Memorial Day at the Memorials

Iwo Jima Memorial

WWII Memorial

Korean War Memorial

Vietnam War Memorial

Navy-Merchant Marine Memorial

World War II Memorial, which honors the 16 million who served in the armed forces of the United States, the more than 400,000 who died, and all who supported the war effort from home. Symbolic of the defining event of the 20th Century, the memorial is a monument to the spirit, sacrifice, and commitment of the American people. The Second World War is the only 20th Century event commemorated on the National Mall’s central axis.

The memorial opened to the public on April 29, 2004 and was dedicated one month later on May 29. The memorial is open to the public 4 hrs a day, seven days a week.

The memorial consists of 56 granite pillars, each 17 feet tall, arranged in a semicircle around a plaza with two 43-foot triumphal arches on opposite sides. “Two-thirds of the 7.4acre site is landscaping and water. Each pillar is inscribed with the name of one of the 48 U.S. states of 1945, as well as the District of Columbia, the Alaska Territory and Territory of Hawaii, the Commonwealth of the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The northern arch is inscribed with “Atlantic”; the southern one, “Pacific.”

The memorial includes two inconspicuously located “Kilroy was here” engravings. Their inclusion in the memorial acknowledges the significance of the symbol to the American soldiers during World War II and how it represented their presence and protection wherever it was inscribed.

The Freedom Wall is on the west side of the memorial, with a view of the Reflecting Pool and the Lincoln Memorial in the distance. The wall has 4,048 gold stars, each representing 100 Americans who died in the war. In front of the wall lies the message…”Here We Mark the Price of Freedom”.

On the other side of the Reflection Pool you will find the Korean War Veterans Memorial. All of its components, including its walls, stainless steel statues and Pool of Remembrance, are dedicated to the armed forces that served and sacrificed during the Korean War. The memorial is free and open 24/7.

The Korean War Veterans Memorial consists of multiple structures that honor those who sacrificed during the three-year struggle. The memorial’s Mural Wall measures 164 feet long and eight inches thick, and from a bird’s eye view, the Wall appears as an isosceles triangle, with the tip intersecting a circle over the Pool of Remembrance.

Images of troops moving by sea, land and air are sandblasted onto the surface of the wall, while a squadron of 19 stainless steel figures, including members from each branch of the armed forces, is situated in the center of the memorial space. When the 1,000-pound statues are reflected on the granite wall, there appears to be 38 soldiers, which, represents the 38th parallel, the dividing line of North and South Korea during the conflict. The popular TV show MASH, although a comedy, depicted the harsh realities of war.

A visit to the memorial is not complete without a look at the Pool of Remembrance, which has inscriptions that list the number of soldiers killed, wounded, missing in action and held as prisoners during the Korean War. Trees positioned so that the sun beautifully reflects off of the water surround the shallow pool, which is only 30 feet in diameter.

The Navy Memorial and Naval Heritage Center in Washington honor and commemorate the sailors of the United States Navy. The memorial is an outdoor public plaza and the Heritage Center serves as a place to learn about the history and heritage of the sea services.

The circular outdoor plaza, located in the heart of D.C., features a “Granite Sea” map of the world, surrounded by fountains, pools, flagpole masts, and sculpted panels depicting historic achievements of the United States Navy. A statue of the Lone Sailor represents all people who ever served in the sea services. The memorial is located at 701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, between 7th and 9th streets.

The final three memorials that I will lightly touch on are on the Virginia side of the Potomac River. The Navy-Merchant Marine Memorial is located in Lady Bird Johnson on Columbia Island and is a monument honoring sailors of the United States Navy and the United States Merchant Marine who died at sea during World War I. It was designed in 1922 and dedicated on October 18, 1934.

Nicknamed “Waves and Gulls,” the memorial depicts seven seagulls above the crest of a wave. It is cast from aluminum and the base is made of green granite. It stands 35 feet tall and 30 feet deep. The monument can be seen between the G.W. Parkway and the Potomac River just north of 395.

The United States Air Force Memorial honors the service of the personnel of the United States Air Force and its predecessors. The memorial is located right off of I-395 in Arlington, Virginia, on the grounds of Fort Myer near the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery.

The memorial is an iconic image on the Washington skyline. The three memorial spires range from 201 feet to 270 feet high and appear to be soaring; its array of stainless steel arcs against the sky evoke the image of “contrails of the Air Force Thunderbirds as the peel back in a precision “bomb burst” maneuver.” Only three of the four contrails are depicted, at 120 degrees from each other, as the absent fourth suggests the missing man formation traditionally used at an Air Force funeral fly-over.

The final memorial is probably the best known. The Marine Corps War Memorial, or the Iwo Jima Statue, is located in Arlington, VA. Just off of the G.W. Parkway. The United States Marine Corps War memorial represents this nation’s gratitude to marines and those who have fought beside them. While the statue depicts one of the most famous incidents of World War II, the memorial is dedicated to all Marines who have given their lives in defense of the United States since 1775.

To get a real feel for the Marine Corps, take a drive south on I-95 or Route 1, Jeff Davis Highway to Triangle, Virginia and visit the Marine Corps Museum. Plan to spend a lot of time here; it is a very impressive museum.

This month’s road trip is close to home, however, these sites will transport you all over the world.

Note: With the closing of several metro stations this month and with construction going on everywhere, be sure to check your GPS, MapQuest or ask our girlfriend at Waze what the best route and mode of transportation is best to take.

May 2019 | 25

TO THE BLUE RIDGE

MEG MULLERY

Did You Know?

The American Horse Council Economic Impact Study estimated that as of 2017, the latest data available, there were 7.2 million horses in the U.S., of which 1.1 million were Thoroughbreds. Of that 1.1 million, 34,000 Thoroughbreds reside in Virginia. The horse industry contributes approximately $2 billion to the GDP with a total employment impact of 39,000 jobs. Nationally, 30% of American households have horses or are horse enthusiasts.

(Data provided by the American Horse Council Foundation located in Washington, D.C.)

Middleburg Training Center

COURAGE IS BEING SCARED TO DEATH AND SADDLING UP ANYWAY. Hollywood Actor John Wayne (1907-1979)

E

arly each morning, a parade of horse-athletes leave their respective barns, exercise riders mounted, destined for the adjacent racetrack. The track is just one component of the 149-acre Middleburg Training Center, a crown jewel of equestrian centers, located in Western Loudoun County.

Magic can happen on a dewy spring morning when horses and mounts gallop and disappear into the fog only to reappear out of the mist on the other side of the track.

The mystical and mythological qualities of the Middleburg Training Center

are genuine; embracing the legacy of generations of horses and the people who serve them.

The 1993 Kentucky Derby winner Sea Hero, the 1979 Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Spectacular Bid, and Hoist the Flag, an outstanding two-year-old colt preparing for the Kentucky Derby who suffered a career-ending leg injury, have been associated with the center.

Spectacular Bid’s attempt at winning the Triple Crown is part of track lore. It failed after sustaining a controversial injury. The morning of the Belmont Stakes Spectacular Bid stepped on a safety pin that fell

off a leg wrap. The pin lodged in his hoof creating a wound and minor infection that was frantically treated. He finished third.

Over the years, the center experienced difficult times and desperately needed renovations and repair.

Locals, both horse industry people and non-horsey types, breathed a sigh of relief when in 2017 local businessman and philanthropist Charles “Chuck” Kuhn purchased the center with ambitious and welcome plans to return it to its once elite status.

Chuck is the founder of JK Moving, North America’s

Tack Room

largest independently owned and operated moving and storage company. Visionary is an apt description. His beginnings as a small local moving company expanded into what is now a multifaceted organization offering long-distance and international moves and a suite of complementary services.

The Middleburg Training Center now will be the beneficiary of Chuck’s visionary gift. He follows in the footsteps of owners who read like a “Who’s Who” in the horse industry.

The late philanthropist Paul Mellon built the track in

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Old Town Crier

BLUE RIDGE | FROM PAGE 26

1956. He sold it in 1975 to a group of 11 local trainers and owners. In 2006, Randy Rouse, developer of the Seven Corners Shopping Center and others in Northern Virginia, purchased the training track. Rouse donated the training center to the non-profit Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation who sold it to Chuck two years ago.

Chuck’s son, Steve, a partner in the training center, oversees the day-to-day management of the track. He explained that many major renovations and improvements have been accomplished. A short-term goal is to complete the work on the 7/8 mile track, 11 barns, 220 stalls, and 22 paddocks.

Currently 130 horses are at the facility. Most, according to Steve, are Thoroughbred racing and steeplechase horses.

The plan for the center moving forward is to expand beyond racing into other horse disciplines. Under active consideration is turning some of the acreage into a venue for competitions involving dressage, show-jumping and cross-country.

Another sigh of relief could be heard when Chuck placed the entire parcel of land

into conservation easement, thus excluding commercial development or residential subdivision. No one was surprised. He has done the same with more than 4000 acres in Loudoun, Frederick and Fauquier counties over the past five years, preserving them for future generations.

This includes land he bought to start the JK Community Farm, a nonprofit that grows and donates healthy food to local food banks. That “vision” thing again.

Visitors can tour the Middleburg Training Center by appointment only. More information can be found at middleburgtrack.com.

Or visit Saturday morning, May 25, when it will be one of 11 horse properties that are part of the 60th Annual Hunt Country Stable Tour.

For more information, visit trinityupperville.org/huntcountry-stable-tour.

Meg Mullery is a real estate agent, licensed in Virginia, with the Middleburg office of Washington Fine Properties.

She can be reached at meg. mullery@wfp.com or 540.878.3307 (mobile).

If Roadster, a Kentucky Derby favorite this year, were to sit across from Henry Louis Gates, Jr., on the popular PBS series, Finding Your Roots, Gates would be looking at very straight-forward ancestry research. All Thoroughbreds trace their lineage back to three stallions.

Elizabeth Letts, in her fascinating book The Perfect Horse about a daring U.S. mission to rescue priceless stallions kidnapped by the Nazis, provides a succinct and informative description: “The Thoroughbred was originally an English breed, and to this day, all so-named horses trace their lineage back to three stallions imported from the Middle East in the late seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.

When bred to the heavier English draft horse, the result was a lighter, faster more hot-blooded horse that proved adept at racing.”

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May 2019 | 27

SPECIAL FEATURE

In Flanders Fields

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.

Memorial Day

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 selfsufficient. 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.

28 | May 2019

A brief history of the artificial poppy In the World War I 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 Franco-American 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

THE GASTRONOMES

DINING OUT

Soup

W

ith the beautiful weather upon us, we thought that we would take the 45 minute drive to the Chesapeake Bay and the town of North Beach. North Beach is a walking town with a beautiful boardwalk and beach along the Bay. The town has shopping, antique stores and just about anything else beyond the boardwalk. Dining options here range from burgers and fries to casual to fine dining. We visited the Westlawn Inn located one block from the Chesapeake Bay. The owner of The Westlawn is Lee Travers. Like myself, Lee grew up in Prince Georges County and I can remember his band, Nobody’s Children.

After a career in rock-n-roll and custom home building, he decided to get back in the hospitality business, an inspiration that came from his youth and his family business “Popey’s Tavern” in District Heights.

In 2004, Lee and his wife, Jan, opened this “casually upscale” restaurant in the beachfront town. They have been successful as the restaurant has a great reputation in Calvert County as a “place to be”. As you enter a small bar with about 15 Old Town Crier

Tuna

Tenderloin

Crème Brûlée

The Westlawn Inn seats stands off to the left. It is very comfortable and well stocked. Off to the right is the dining room in a casual period decor with white table cloths.

It is a very warm and relaxing room. Next to the dining area is the bandstand where local groups perform and Lee even brings the old guys together about once a month for a trip down memory lane. I haven’t attended that yet, but I will.

The menu is not extensive but has something for everyone. There are six starters including spinach and artichoke dip, fried calamari, fried red tomato with spiced crabmeat, and grilled artichoke hearts. Soups and salads consist of cream of crab soup, Westlawn Salad, classic Caesar, spinach and bib salad.

The entrees get a little adventuresome in addition to the standard grilled filet mignon, Atlantic salmon, and grilled sea Scallops, they have lime stuffed Branzini, chicken saltimbocca, pan Seared tuna

and grilled pork chops. The Westlawn also offers Chef Specials every evening.

We started our experience with a stop at the bar for a couple of vodka gimlets before we were seated. This bar is a local’s favorite and we like sitting in and participating in the conversations. It is fully stocked and they are in tune with some of the latest “must have” cocktails if that’s what you are interested in. We tend to stick to the classics.

After being seated, we chose a nice New Zealand sauvignon blanc to accompany our meals. The wine list isn’t overwhelming but it isn’t sparse either. There is something for every price point and pallet. I started out with the cream of crab soup since the Chesapeake Bay is just a stone’s throw away.

It was very good with a hint of sherry. The crab meat was tasty although a little thin.

For my entree I ordered the pan seared tuna. The tuna was sushi grade and seared just

enough to add a slight crispness to the outer edges while leaving the rest very tender and enjoyable. The tuna was served over a saute of cherry tomatoes, squash and zucchini which paired very well with the tuna.

This is a favorite veggie combo of mine and it was delicious.

My dining partner is a huge fan of the “other white meat” and ordered the pork tenderloin special. It was cooked perfectly and served on a bed of a savory rice composition and topped with a very tasty apple chutney.

There is also an “After Dinner” menu that highlights the desserts, specialty coffees (both with and with alcohol) and the ports and cognacs. I love creme brulee and it was on the menu. Unfortunately, I missed the notation “Flavor of the Day”. It turned out to be a very good chocolate pudding type filling with the caramelized sugar on top.

It was very good but also a surprise. My fault. My partner, however, isn’t a big fan of crème

Table Setting brulee but does love chocolate pudding so she was fine with my error. It was a win in any case.

Our overall experience at The Westlawn Inn was very favorable...a classic restaurant in a beautiful setting run by real people. It is well worth the drive. As an aside, Travers has recently opened a long anticipated Guest Quarters next door. Even though they haven’t had a grand opening they are renting the rooms for a night or extended stay. Like the restaurant, this is a first class building with a lot of the work done by or supervised by Travers. Check with them for availability.

WESTLAWN INN 9200 CHESAPEAKE AVE NORTH BEACH, MD 410-257-0001 WESTLAWNINN.COM HOURS: TUE. - THUR.: 5PM – 9PM FRI. & SAT.: 5PM TO 10PM SUN BRUNCH: 11AM – 3PM DINNER: 3:30PM-8PM CLOSED MONDAYS

May 2019 | 29

BEHIND THE BAR

CHARLES HAWKINS How did you get started in the bartending business?

I was a stereotypical idiot right out of college, trying to figure life out. I was running some errands, when I bumped into an old high school friend. While we were catching up, I mentioned that I was also looking for work, which he replied that he was working at a local restaurant. Then he said something to me that stuck with me. He told me that they were always hiring. I found that odd, but it all makes sense now and…the rest was history.

What is your bartender pet peeve?

As far as pet peeves, I really don’t have any. I have found that over the years of bar tending you become more and more desensitized and grow really thick skin. So, in general, I just ask you to be kind and treat others like you would like to be treated. However, if I had to pick one, it would be when a complete stranger asks me to “make them something good”. Remember, we don’t know each other, how am I to know what you like or what you’re into. A little guidance goes a long way.

MACKIE’S BAR & GRILL 907 KING STREET OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA 703-684-3288 MACKIESBARANDGRILL.COM

What is the best/worst pick up line you have heard at the bar?

Sadly you hear so many they tend not to stand out over time. I have been flashed more times than I can count, been told I have beautiful eyes

(they are contacts by the way) and the list goes on. So I guess I’m still waiting on something memorable.

Tell us an interesting story?

Wow there are so many things I could tell you, but I will just tell you about the last time I leveled up as a bartender. While I was working a local bar, I had to remake a drink for a guest. This wasn’t a big deal, it happens all the time. However, this time was different. Three tall, attractive ladies with “big hair” walked in (needless to say they stood out) and they were drinking Old Fashions One of the girls walks up to the bar and asked me to remake one of the drinks, she explained to me that they prefer the way I made them. As she leaned in to tell me this, her hair fell down into a lit candle. Instantly her hair catches fire.

Instantly I am panicking, but I don’t let it show. I start analyzing my surroundings. I was not near a sink or even a soda gun. I jumped into action. I swung my hand toward her face and hair. At this moment I realize that I could potentially hit someone even though I’m trying to help. I now can see that the flames grow as I’m moving closer to the fire. Somehow I was able to stop and put out the fire with my hands. If that wasn’t crazy enough, the young lady acknowledged this with a simple thank you for putting out her hair, as if this was a regular occurrence.

BEHIND THE BAR > PAGE 31

Charles conjures up a Cranberry Old Fashion.

30 | May 2019

Old Town Crier

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She calmly finished her request. I immediately prepare her drink and quickly took a few minutes to calm down and process what just happened.

If you could have a drink with anyone past or present, who would that be?

Honestly, I would love to have a drink with any major influential person in history.

Someone like Ghandi, Martin Luther king, Malcom X,

and the list could go on and on. But, in the long run, I would have to say it would be my family. I have missed countless birthdays and other important family moments.

With that being said, I would love to have some casual drinks with my family.

You can find Charles behind the bar on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

If you would like to see your favorite mixologist featured in this space, send contact information to office@ oldtowncrier.com.

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Old Town Crier

Join us at Union Street Public House on May 2

608 Montgomery St Alexandria 703.548.1004

HELP US BRING HIM HOME The National Press Club and its #FreeAustinTice coalition partners are teaming up with leading restaurants across the country to raise awareness about the case of Austin Tice, an American journalist who has been held captive in Syria since August 2012. Austin filed award-winning work for The Washington Post, McClatchy and CBS before his capture. He is a Houston native, an Eagle Scout, a Hoya, and a Marine - he devoted his life to the service of others, and right now he needs our help.

ON MAY 2, grab your friends and go to dinner at one of the many participating restaurants listed at NightOutForAustin.com. These restaurants have pledged to contribute a portion of their proceeds from NIGHT OUT FOR AUSTIN TICE to the reward fund established by the FBI for information leading to Austin's safe return. Now is the time to act and everyone can help - make your reservation today.

NIGHTOUTFORAUSTIN.COM May 2019 | 31

AMERICAN AUGIE’S MUSSEL HOUSE 1106 King Street 703.721.3970 MOHO KITCHEN & COCTAILS 116 South Alfred St. 703-739-6090 BILBO BAGGINS 208 Queen St. 703-683-0300 BLACKWALL HITCH 5 Cameron St. 703-739-6090 CAFE 44 44 Canal Center 571-800-6644 CARLYLE CLUB 411 John Carlyle St. 703-549-8957

HUMMINGBIRD 220 South Union Street 703-566-1355

THE PEOPLES DRUG 103 N. Alfred Street

JACKS PLACE 222 North Lee St. 703-684-0372

RAMPARTS 1700 Fern St. 703-998-6616 rampartstavern.com

JACKSON 20 480 King St. 703-842-2790

RESERVE 2216 2216 Mount Vernon Avenue 703-549-2889

JAVA GRILL 611 King Street 571-431-7631

REYNOLDS STREET CAFÉ 34 S. Reynolds St. 703-751-0830

JOE THEISMANNS 1800 Diagonal Rd. 703-739-0777

RIVER BEND BISTRO 7966 Fort Hunt Rd. Hollin Hall Shopping Center 703-347-7545 riverbendbistro.com

JUNCTION BAKERY & BISTRO 1508 Mount Vernon Avenue Alexandria 703-436-0025

ROCK IT GRILL 1319 King St. 703-739-2274

CHADWICKS 203 Strand St. 703-836-4442 chadwicksrestaurants.com An Old Town tradition since 1979 and an original Georgetown pub and restaurant since 1967.

LAPORTAS 1600 Duke St. 703-683-6313

CHARLIE'S ON THE AVENUE Mount Vernon Avenue 703-851-3270

LIVE OAK 1603 Commonwealth Ave. 571-312-0402

CHART HOUSE One Cameron St. 703-684-5080

LORI'S TABLE 1028 King Street 703-549-5545

CITY KITCHEN 330 South Pickett St. 703-685-9172 fatcitykitchen.com USA City inspired menu choices that bring together traditional American and global cuisine with their own personal touch. Casual dress. $30 and under. Lots of free parking.

Open 7 days a week with brunch on Sat & Sun 11-3. AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

LOST DOG CAFE 808 North Henry St. 571-970-6511

THE LIGHT HORSE 715 King Street 703-549-0533

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 SOCIETY FAIR 277 S. Washington St. 703-683-3247

MACKIE’S BAR AND GRILL 907 King St. 703-684-3288

SONOMA CELLAR 207 King St. 703-966-3550

MAGNOLIA’S ON KING 703 King St. 703-838-9090

SOUTH BLOCK 106 N. Lee Street 703-465-8423

MAJESTIC CAFÉ 911 King St. 703-837-9117

SOUTHSIDE 815 815 S. Washington St. 703-836-6222

EVENING STAR CAFÉ 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-549-5051

MASON SOCIAL 728 Henry Street Old Town Alexandria 703-548-8800 mason-social.com

SWEETGREEN 823 King St. 571-319-0192

EXECUTIVE DINER & CAFE 1400 Duke Street 703-299-0894

MOUNT VERNON INN Mount Vernon, Va 703-780-0011

FIN & HOOF 801 N. Saint Asaph St. 703-836-4700

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.

COLUMBIA FIREHOUSE 109 S. St. Asaph St. 703-683-1776

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 GLORY DAYS GRILL 3141 Duke Street 703-567-157 GRATEFUL KITCHEN 727 N. Henry Street HARD TIMES CAFE 1404 King St. 703-837-0050 HEN QUARTER 1404 King St. 703-684-6969

32 | May 2019

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

SWEET FIRE DONNA'S BB@ & HOPS 510 John Carlyle Street 571-312-7960 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 MonFri, 4-7 pm. Brunch served Sat & Sun.

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 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 GW Parkway at Lucia Ln. 703-780-3665 OLD HOUSE COSMOPOLITAN 1024 Cameron Street 703-717-9361 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

TRADEMARK 2800 Jamieson Ave. 703-253-8640

BISTRO SANCERRE FRENCH 1755 Duke Street

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.

LE REFUGE 127 N. Washington St. 703-548-4661

VERMILLION 1120 King St. 703-684-9669 VIRTUE GRAIN & FEED 106 South Union St. 571-970-3669

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

VOLA’S DOCKSIDE GRILL & THE HI-TIDE LOUNGE 101 North Union St. 703-935-8890

ITALIAN

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

THE WAREHOUSE BAR & GRILL 214 King St. 703-683-6868

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 MIA'S ITALIAN KITCHEN 100 King Street 703-997-5300 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 VASO'S MEDITERRANEAN BISTRO 1118 King Street 703-566-2720 VASO'S KITCHEN 1225 Powhatan Street 703-548-2747 SEAFOOD CATCH ON THE AVENUE 2419 MOUNT VERNON AVE 703-566-1283 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 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 FISH MARKET-CLINTON 7611Old Branch Ave. Clinton, MD 301-599-7900

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MAY

Chimichurri Steak!

Inspired by foods found in cities across America with a toast to their craft brews, wines, and spirits MAY EVENTS May 2, 2019- A Night Out For Austin Tice May 12, 2019- Mother’s Day Brunch May 22, 2019-for Rat BRUNCH Pack Dinner Now open Saturdays & Sundays at 10AM

In honor of the greatest singers and entertainers of all time, the Union Street Public House is proud to host a four course dinner and whiskey tasting

121 South Union Street, Old Town Alexandria 703.548.1785  unionstreetpublichouse.com

FatCityKitchen.com 330 S. Pickett Street | (703) 685-9172

Meet Old Friends or Find New Ones at Murphy’s!

HOME OF IRISH MUSIC & HOSPITALITY SINCE 1978 Featuring Traditional Irish and American Fare Nightly Irish Entertainment – No Cover Catch Your Favorite National & International Sporting Events Irish Luau Summer Kick-Off Party June 2, 3 -7pm WEEKLY SPECIALS

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

703-660-6085 DIYA 218 North Lee, 2nd Floor 703-706-5338 NAMASTE 1504 King St. 703-970-0615

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MEXICAN LATIN SOUTHWESTERN CASA TEQUILA (next to Crate & Barrel) 1701 Duke 703-518-5312

LOS TIOS GRILL 2615 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-299-9290

DON TACO TEQUILA BAR 808 King St. 703-988-3144

TAQUERIA POBLANO 2400-B Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-548-TACO (8226)

LOS CUATES RESTAURANT 1116 King Street 703-548-2918

LOS TOLTECOS 4111 Duke St. 703-823-1167

TEQUILA & TACO 540 John Carlyle Street 703-721-3203 Urbano 116 116 King Street 571-970-5148

Sunday Brunch Starting at $9.95

Wednesday: 40¢ Wings 4 pm to Close

Monday: Margaritas All You Can Eat Ribs $14.95

Thursday: Steak Night Starting at $15.95 • 5 - 9 pm

Tuesday: Half Price Burgers 4 - 9 pm • Trivia 8:15 pm

Saturday: Seafood Saturday PRIVATE PART Y ROOM

® 713 King Street • Old Town Alexandria 703.548.1717 • murphyspub.com May 2019 | 33

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 34 | May 2019

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.

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.

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: Parmigiano-Reggiano shavings

Preparation 1. Blanch green beans in boiling, salted water for 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 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.

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.

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

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GRAPEVINE

NANCY BAUER

VIRGINIA WINERIES THAT LAY OUT A FEAST

I

t’s May, so we’re talking moms. Now my mom, she loved a good lunch. She lived in Annapolis after my dad passed away, and I’d drive out every Sunday to take her to whichever restaurant had recently struck her fancy. She’d always look at the menu and say, “Chicken” with a big sigh. “I’m so tired of chicken.”

Then, with great enthusiasm: “I think I’ll have a burger!” I’d look down and stifle a laugh because this was the same thing she said every time she had lunch with me, or one of her other four kids. We never saw her eat much chicken, but that woman sure did enjoy her cheeseburgers.

If she were still here, I’d steal her away and spend all of Mother’s Day visiting wineries, talking, and tasting.

Not the wine – she didn’t drink much – but the food. Because, lucky, lucky us, beautiful food – fresh, local, artisanal – is finding its way more often onto Virginia winery menus, everything from wood-fired pizza to fancy-schmancy little nibbles.

A couple of wineries even do cheeseburgers.

This month, scoop up your mom, point the car toward one of these wineries, and enjoy your time together.

For more information about these wineries, including addresses, websites and operating hours, see VirginiaWineInMyPocket.com.

SHENANDOAH VALLEY CrossKeys Vineyards, Mt Crawford: Excellent full Bistro menu for lunch/early dinner (depending on season) and Sunday brunch.

Muse Vineyards, Woodstock: Seafood and Mediterranean fare, soups, seasonal salads, and panini.

COASTAL VIRGINIA New Kent Winery, New Kent: Extensive selection of plated and served cheeses, hummus, and meats.

GRAPEVINE > PAGE 39

Muse Vineyards room and on a deck with fabulous garden views.

Bogati Winery, Round Hill: Empanadas, gourmet pizzas, provoleta, charcuterie.

Chateau O’Brien, Markham: Light fare including sandwiches, flatbreads, and cheese boards.

Creeks Edge Winery, Lovettsville: Fun menu of snacks, sandwiches, pizzas and soups.

Crushed Cellars, Purcellville: New Zealand meat pies, bruschetta and cheese.

Hillsborough Vineyards, Hillsboro: Light weekend menu in-season with appetizers, cheese boards, panini and interesting sides.

NORTHERN VIRGINIA REGION

Narmada Winery, Amissville: Small plates of Indian specialties are the favorite here.

868 Vineyards, Purcellville: Grandale Vintner’s Table serves farm-to-table lunches and dinners in a rustic dining

Philip Carter Winery, Hume: Homemade soups, stews, and chilis every weekend January - March.

36 | May 2019

Potomac Point Vineyard, Stafford: Full service Le Grand Cru Bistro open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch (check days and hours).

Quattro Goombas Winery, Aldie: On-site Pizza Shop featuring Sicilian-style.

Rappahannock Cellars, Huntly: Light fare menu of flatbreads and cheese boards.

Winery 32, Leesburg: Bistro menu of 10 savory housemade small plates.

CHARLOTTESVILLE & CENTRAL VIRGINIA REGION Barboursville Vineyards, Barboursville: The renowned Palladio Restaurant is a destination unto itself. Lunch Wednesday through Sunday.

Dinner Friday & Saturday.

Reservations a must.

Courthouse Creek Cider, Maidens: Gourmet bite plates, biscuits and other baked goods.

Early Mountain Vineyards, Madison: Full farm-to-table menu from small plates to sweets.

Mermaid Winery, Norfolk: Full lunch, dinner and brunch menus.

Pippin Hill Farm Winery, North Garden: Locallysourced creative menu and private four-course wine and food pairing for small or large groups.

Prince Michel Winery, Leon: Soups, sandwiches, and creative panini on Saturdays.

Upper Shirley Vineyards, Charles City: Small plates, full lunch and sweets menu, plus occasional prix-fixe dinners by reservation.

Veritas Vineyards, Afton: Al fresco sandwiches, snacks and salads for lunch daily. At The Farmhouse at Veritas, elegant four-course, wine paired dinners, by reservation.

FOOD TRUCKS ON TAP Coyote Hole CiderWorks Mineral Every weekend Keswick Vineyards Keswick Every Saturday (except winter)

Rappahannock Cellars Huntly Every weekend Sans Soucy Vineyards Brookneal When winery is open Sly Clyde CiderWorks Hampton Every weekend.

The Winery at Bull Run Centreville Every weekend.

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EXPLORING VA WINES

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Old Town Crier

S

o the season has begun again! The green leaves that contain the chlorophyll are growing bigger every day, staging themselves to collect another seasons worth of the sun’s energy. That energy will be turned into the sweetness and flavors in the fruit that will make our wines something for many to talk about. That energy will also keep the farmers and gardeners working hard trying to keep their plants healthy and abundant with nutrients, flavor and style.

Even though the growing season last year was a bit depressing through much of the year, every farmer that I speak to is excited about what is ahead of us. The pear blossoms have already set their fruit and that fruit is growing bigger every day. For us at Fabbioli Cellars, we will soon be putting the bottles on the fruit so the pears will grow inside. The grapes will be going through its blossom and pollination stage in a few weeks, setting the stage for a fruitful vintage.

The farmer is an entrepreneur, an investor of time and money whose hard work and commitment to the land and crops can pay off

in spades if all things come together. The commitment is great and we have been doing this for thousands of years. Our society has been built upon the idea that if we stay in one place and plant the land, there will be more food for the people than if they just hunted and gathered the foods of the forest. In many ways, the farmer was an inspiration to budding communities because much of the commerce was based on the food that fed the people.

To me, the farmer has always been an inspiration. Now it’s those younger folks that are making that commitment to the land and the crops and the flocks that will feed their families and others, those are the ones that inspire me most.

There are plenty of easier ways to make a living, especially in this part of the country.

I hope that we can continue to see growth among our youth to be farmers and stewards of the land. We need to push for programs in our schools and communities that inspire young folks to learn the skills and connect with the land. The growing season starts every spring, and one of the most important crops we can grow, is new farmers.

May 2019 | 37

Sunny Days at Virginia Wineries

BY BOB TAGERT

A

s most of you remember, last year the rains came early and came often...usually on weekends. In fact, it was the wettest year on record.

This year is shaping up to be more of a normal year, meaning sunny weekends. As I write this on April 20th the sun is out and temps will reach into the low 70’s. Even though it rained last night, the weekend looks perfect for a visit to our favorite Virginia wineries.

The wineries we like to visit are located in northern Fauquier County and into Rappahannock County. These two counties border each other and each have interesting small towns that make the trip even more pleasant.

Located just off of route 55 (parallel to I-66) you can reach most of these wineries near

this road. Route 55 passes to the town of Marshall. You may have read about this place in our March issue. Great place for lunch and some shopping.

The first winery you will come to is Barrel Oak Winery located right off 55. Owner Brian Roeder has made this a kid and dog friendly winery. If it happens to be a cold evening there are numerous fire pits outside. If you visit, make sure you check out their cat...Dawg!

A short ride down 55 will bring you to Blue Valley which is one of Virginia’s newest wineries.

About a mile down route 15 is Three Fox Vineyards. Owners John and Holli Todhunter have a beautiful winery across Crooked Run Creek, I believe the only winery where you have to cross a small creek. It is a beautiful entrance...until last year when the rains caused the creek to flood and closed

the winery for five weekends and other days during the year.

As of this writing the bridge is being rebuilt and may be open by May, however their neighbor has allowed guests to the winery to enter through his fields which is behind the winery. Look for directions and signs. They also have fire pits for the occasional cool evening.

Continuing down route 15 to Leeds Manor Road will lead you to Valley View Farm Winery.

This winery has a market and pick your own berries, apples and peaches among other farm related produce. The views, like most all of these wineries are spectacular.

Continuing the beautiful drive on Leeds Manor Road will bring you to Naked Mountain Winery. Nesteled between two mountains it is a beautiful spot and has been long recognized for its award winning Chardonnay.

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

Leaving Naked Mountain you cross under I-66 and make a right on Route 55 again.

Proceed about 4 miles to Fox Meadow Winery at the very top of Freezeland Road. A former orchard, Fox Meadow sits at the top of the mountain and has a view of at least 7 other mountain tops. It is beautiful.

Fox Meadow is a former winner of the coveted Virginia Cup Gold Medal. Check out their ad in this issue and take it for a free crystal logo glass with a paid tasting.

Doubling back on route 55 and turning right where you came down from Naked Mountain you will cross the railroad tracks and proceed to Philip Carter Winery. Known as the Founding Family of Virginia Wines, Philip Carter Winery brings out the history of Virginia wines.

Turning left on Leeds Manor Road go about two miles to the stop sign and turn right on Hume Road. This will take you past the 4,200-acre Marriot Ranch to Desert Rose Winery.

Desert Rose offers a little taste of Bob’s cowboy days in Oregon and his wife Linda makes everyone feel right at home at

the million dollar tasting bar.

A little down the road from Desert Rose you will cross into Rappahannock County and come to Rappahannock Cellars and their new Dida’s Distillery where they make a pressed gin and vodka as well as brandy. Rapp Cellars also won a Governor’s Cup Award for their Viognier wine.

From here you can pick up Route 522 and making a left come to the small town of Flint Hill where you can grab a bite to eat.

The last winery to mention is Pearmund Cellars in Warrenton.

This is a winery you can visit first or last but you need to get off of Route 55. Use your GPS and find this award winning winemaker and winery. You may be lucky enough to arrive on a day that Chris Pearmund is giving one of his talks in their beautiful barrel room.

These are all wineries who want the northern Virginia visitors to become friends. It is a relatively short drive through beautiful backroads and small towns. Pack a picnic basket and grab a few friends for a memorable day in the wine country of Virginia.

Valley View Farm Wine, Hard Cider, Mead Craft Beverages Locavore Farm Market and Pick-your-Own Orchards Farm Tours & Honey Tastings

Where the Locavores roam Open Friday through Sunday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

1550 Leeds Manor Road, Delaplane, VA 20144 www.valleyviewva.com | (540) 592-1021

38 | May 2019

Old Town Crier

GRAPEVINE FROM PAGE 36

BLUE RIDGE REGION

Saude Creek Vineyards, Lanexa: The Scottish Pig BBQ every weekend.

Beliveau Estate Winery, Blacksburg: Gourmet pizza, hot dogs, nachos, ice-cream, cheese plates.

Williamsburg Winery, Williamsburg: Gabriel Archer Tavern for casual lunch, brunch and the Wine & Brine Lounge for local oysters on weekends; Café Provencal for elegant dinners.

Chateau Morrisette, Floyd: Full service dinner yearround, and light lunch June through October.

Whitebarrel Winery, Christiansburg: Tapas menu

with foods from the winery’s farm and farms around the region.

SOUTHERN REGION Hamlet Vineyards, Bassett: Breads & Spreads, weekly lunch special, complimentary Virginia peanuts.

Hunting Creek Vineyards, Clover: Small plates and wood-fired pizza.

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MOTHER’S DAY FEATURE

EILEEN WACKER

Living in 15-minute Increments

I

am the mother of four kids, aged 8 to 14 years old, and trying to launch a business.

I live life in 15-minute increments.

Our house wakes up at 6:00 a,m. during the week. Getting everyone to eat something is a challenge so I let them eat whatever they want – leftover pasta, soup, mac and cheese, cereal, bagels, whatever. Then I either drive them to school, leaving at 6:45 or go to my office and start to work.

I usually have appointments racked and stacked as I work with a team located across Korea, India, Vancouver, San Francisco, Mexico City and Honolulu. Today, I’m also trying to keep fish from dying.

My son went to a birthday party and the party favor was a beta fish. I groaned when I saw it and secretly vowed to get even with the mom. Then my son named the fish Medallion because it was like gold to him. So, yesterday I went to the pet store to get some accommodations for Medallion and we left with six mollies and an aquarium. Anyway, the six mollies are named – Blaze, Spike, Buster (girl), Anna, Crusoe, and Razor.

This morning, I came upon our dog, Buster Brown, with the fish food container in his mouth. He had eaten nearly

W

the whole can and I had to wrestle the container from him.

Apparently, he had climbed up on the chair and snatched the food. He was utterly remorseless standing there with fish flakes sticking all around his mouth. And he apparently scared a fish to death. Poor Spike met his demise.

Buster Brown is also going to the vet today as his ears are infected and he has been chewing his paws. So now I add allergy medicine and pet hospital to the bills! Lately we have been cracking down on him running away to visit our neighbor’s chihuahua as our other neighbor feels menaced by small dogs and calls security.

My assistant arrives and we crank through as much as humanly possible as we are on an impending deadline.

Then school pick-ups start at 2:45. Someone helps with the driving but we are both in our respective cars from 2:30 until 6:00 every day.

Each child has school, a sport and an instrument. But we also have doctor and dental appointments, birthdays, school orientations, parent conferences, school fairs, major sports events, dances, and play dates in all different venues.

And, they keep growing and needing new clothes and shoes.

I arrive home at 6:00 from

the vet, picking up my 13 yearold son from tennis along the way. My 8 year-old daughter runs to the door to remind me the bake sale is tomorrow and we promised to send in cheesecake brownies, cut into pieces, bagged and labeled.

Luckily, I have brownie mix and cheesecake filling. We preheat the oven and start to make them. I am making dinner at the same time, boiling water for pasta. So it appears to be working out. Then I discover we have no canola oil. I rush to the store to get the oil. I am almost home and my oldest texts me – “just ran out of milk.” I text her back “drain the pasta and I’ll get milk.”

As I walk in the door, one of my kids calls me to report an “infestation“ in the kitchen.

Sure enough there are a thousand little ants just by the door. We run and douse them with enough “raid” to fill a bathtub.

I have three kids to help with homework; however, one is independent or I should say refuses to let me see his work.

I listen to how everyone’s day went, then showers, piano practice and a little free time.

If I don’t tell them to go to bed, they forget (but if I attempt to send them to bed early, it is treated as a crime committed against children everywhere.)

hat makes good mothers? It is a pertinent question whose answer cannot be contained within a few words. Mothers comprise of a bundle of emotions that sometimes defy reason. So this goes out to all the mothers who have kept awake all night with their sick toddlers in their arms, constantly uttering those compassionate words, “It’s OK honey, Mommy’s here.”

• For all the mothers who run carpools and make cookies and sew Halloween costumes. And all the mothers who don’t.

• For those who show up at work with milk stains on their dress And diapers in their handbags.

• For those mothers who cannot restrain tears from trickling down their cheeks when they hold their babies for the first time in their arms; and for the mothers who give birth to babies they’ll never see.

• For the mothers who gave homes to babies and gifted them a family.

• For the mothers who yell at their kids who clamour for ice cream before dinner.

• For the mothers who defy all odds just to watch her kid perform and repeat to themselves “That’s my child!!”

• For all the mothers who read “Goodnight, Moon” twice a night for a year, and then read it again. “Just one more time.”

• For the mothers who taught their children to tie the shoelaces even before they started going to school.

• For the mothers who incontinently turn their heads when they hear the word “Mom”, even though they know that their kids are nowhere around.

• For the mothers who silently shed tears for their children who have gone astray.

• For all those mothers whose heart aches to watch her son or daughter disappear down the street, walking to school alone for the very first time.

• For all the mothers of the victims of all these school shootings, and the mothers of those who were involved in the shooting.

• For the mothers of the Survivors, and the mothers who sat in front of their televisions in horror, clinging to their child who just arrived from school safely.

So, this is meant for all the young and aged mothers, working mothers and housewives, married mothers and the single mothers, those with money and without and for those without whom life would have been insufferable. We wish you a Happy Mothers Day!

-Author unknown

40 | May 2019

I still lay down for five minutes with my youngest when she goes to bed. She goes down at 8:15 and that 15-minute increment is critical to her.

Then, I cut and bag the brownies, make lunches, make sure all laptops are chargedup, and check for correct shoes for in-school and after-school sports. Last, I confiscate all cell phones until morning as they text their friends incessantly.

Just when I feel like my “sportsmomship” might give out, my kids give me a hug and tell me I’m the best mom ever.

I get re-energized and work a little longer as India and Korea are up and working. I have a glass of wine with my husband and ask him about his day. I usually don’t remember his response, as I am so exhausted.

At ten, I go to sleep dreaming about ski vacations and sleeping in.

Every Sunday, we look at the calendar and figure out what items we have in addition to the

regular routine. I slot them all into the schedule in 15-minute increments. My youngest son likes to play flag football and says he is great at “juking.” This is modern-day parent “juking.”

And tomorrow I start booking the summer camps, trips and schedule. But at least I’ve made enough pasta tonight to eat for breakfast tomorrow.

Eileen Wacker, a Harvard Business School graduate, lived and worked in seven different countries, including the United States. She commuted to Asia for nearly three years as part of a business development team, which sparked her interest in Asian culture. Wacker spent a good portion of her youth in the Washington, DC area and now resides in Honolulu, Hawaii, with her husband and four children, one of whom is a daughter adopted from China.

For more information please visit her website: http://www. oncekids.com.

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Old Town Crier

FITNESS

NICOLE FLANAGAN

FIT MOM

A

s a personal trainer and mother, I can appreciate being able to have an hour to myself to get in a good workout. This event rarely happens. It seems that by the time I actually have some time to spend on myself there is still a million things to get done. Exercise is always on my list of things to do for the day and I have found that the best way to fit it in is by doing a 15-20 minute workout

at least twice a day. Fitting in a workout can be easier if you make it a part of your daily routine. I know this is easier said than done, but it is possible. Make your workout fun for you and for your kids.

Try doing a workout video in the living room while your kids play. If they are old enough to move around have fun with them, you get your workout in and the kids get worn out too! When babies are too young to move on

their own, it’s the best time to strap them in a stroller and go for a walk. If you are a runner, I highly recommend investing in a jogging stroller - it will make exercising fun and the jogging strollers fold up so you can take them just about everywhere.

Exercising increases your metabolism, increases energy and will help you sleep better - even if you are only getting a few hours at a time. You can complete an entire strength

training routine in just under 20minutes using only your body weight. The best part about body weight training is that you can do it anywhere!

Total Body Strength Workout: Warm-up: jumping jacks, walk in place for 1 minute

Squat Jump Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.

Squat down, bending your knees to 90 degrees.

Now jump up and land softly again in the squat position. Use the strength in your legs and butt to jump up explosively.

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Remember to land as softly as you can with your knees bent; keep your weight back, over your heels.

Do 3 sets of 8 reps

Single Leg Circles 1. Lie back on the mat with your arms by your sides and your palms facing down.

2. Begin by pointing with your left foot, as if reaching out with your toes toward the ceiling, and rotate your leg slightly outward.

3. Inhale, and trace a circle on the ceiling with your left leg, moving your whole leg, but keeping your hips still. Don’t lift your left hip off the floor.

4. Trace the circle on the ceiling 5 times in a clockwise direction.

Repeat in a counterclockwise direction.

5. Switch legs; repeat 5 times.

Single Leg Opposite Arm and Leg Reach 1. Stand with feet hipwidth apart, knees slightly bent, abs engaged, left hand on hip.

2. Lift left knee up to 90 degrees in front of you.

Lean forward slightly as you reach right arm in front of you and push left foot behind you.

3. Hold for 1 count. Pull both back in. Do 12 reps.

4. Switch sides; repeat 3 times.

Eccentric Push-ups 1. Start in a plank position. Shoulders over wrists, back straight, core engaged.

You can be on your knees or toes.

2. slowly lower your body to the ground while keeping your core tight and legs straight.

3. Return to start position. The goal is to lower your body slowly; you are only doing the down part of the pushup.

Do 3 sets of 5-8 reps

No Weight Shoulder Press Extend arms out to sides at shoulder height, elbows bent 90 degrees, palms forward. Raise arms over head, then lower to start.

(30 reps) May 2019 | 41

FROM THE TRAINER

RYAN UNVERZAGT

❶

❷

THE DEAD-LIFT

T

his month’s featured exercise is the Dead-lift.

Now don’t let the name frighten you away. In the sport of power-lifting, the dead-lift is one of three exercises along with the squat and bench press. It is one of the most functional exercises to learn because its technique can be applied to everyday life.

You’ve all heard the saying, “Use your legs and not your back.” Well nothing rings more true than with the dead-lift.

To start, place your feet hipwidth apart, toes underneath the bar. Bend at your knees and hips (Not your back!) to lower down to establish your grip. As you can see in Figure 1, my grip is outside my legs, my shoulders are over the bar as well with my butt down, back straight, torso upright, chest forward and looking ahead too!

Whew, that’s a lot of cues to remember, but all are equally important to help protect your low back from potential injury.

When you begin to actually lift the bar from the floor, USE YOUR LEGS! Keep your low back “locked in” by not letting it round. The key to doing this is to push your feet through the ground and activate the butt muscles, leaning back slightly to keep the bar close to your body. Your hips should rise at the same rate as the bar. It is very common for the hips to come up first as the bar lags behind. This technique will certainly contribute to any back 42 | May 2019

pain that you may have.

Once the bar is above your knees, continue to keep the bar close to your thighs. Finish the lift by bringing your hips forward, squeezing the gluteal (butt) muscles. You have just completed the concentric or upward phase of the deadlift! Now you must carefully lower the bar back down to the floor. Drop your butt down as you lower the bar to maintain low back posture. This is the eccentric or downward phase.

Perform this exercise in front of a mirror with an empty barbell and a partner to watch your technique. Add some weights once you master the technique. If your hips rise faster than the bar, you probably have too much weight on the bar. The dead-lift will strengthen all the major muscle groups in your body which include the soleus, quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteus maximus, abdominals, low back, latissimus dorsi, erector spinae, upper trapezius, forearms and shoulders.

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

KIM PUTENS

FIRST BLUSH

THE FOOL SECRETS PROOF TO A 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 Haircuts $15

“Every year at about this time, those of us who like that bronzed skin look start thinking about the long Memorial Day Weekend as the beginning of tanning season. We know that too much sun exposure isn’t good for you and that an SPF 30 is recommended from head to toe, however, a tan masks a multitude of sins – cellulite doesn’t look quite as bad, freckles sort of run together, etc. That being said, there is the alternative – self tanners. We try to publish these tips from Kim Putens each year as a refresher. I can tell you from experience DO NOT SKIP STEP 1!” - Lani

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 oilfree. Oil prevents tanner from properly penetrating.

Step 2 – Prep Yourself To avoid turning green,

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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.

Step 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 best to be safe than sorry.

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 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.

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 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 as well 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 2019 | 43

SPIRITUAL RENAISSANCE PEGGIE ARVIDSON

I

’ve spent my life around busy people. In my 20s I thought that meant that to be worthy and successful, I too, should be busy. I took this constant busy-ness to mean that I was doing important things.

My to-do list never ended. I joked – heck – I bragged that crossing the last thing off my to-do list would mean that I was ready to die and that at the rate I was going I would live forever.

In a state of constant motion, you can buy into the illusion that you’re in control, right? Going from work to the gym to pick up the kids to making dinner to following up on emails and calls and getting the kids ready for bed before crawling into bed with your partner to watch the Late Show gives you a sense that you’re doing something.

That what you’re doing is important and worthwhile and that if you didn’t do it things would fall out of control.

Eventually there’s a breaking point.

For me the breaking point started as a nearly imperceptible fissure that grew over the years to a fullblown disease. By the time I was hospitalized I was mostly in a state of berating myself for not being able to get things done because my body was cursing me and not participating in my 24/7 march for control.

The good news is that I had already started studying and learning about the mindbody connection. It was, of course, just another way of DOING SOMETHING but I convinced myself that it was for a higher cause and therefore it was somehow more worthy than my old way of constantly doing active stuff.

I convinced myself that by studying the mind-body-spirit connection I was shaking off the veil of numbness and distraction that came from all my consumerism and mindless tending of to-do lists. I apologize profusely 44 | May 2019

for all of you who came into my orbit during that time, sanctimony really doesn’t look good on me.

Hospitalized the second time in 3 months and I finally gave up. I wrote in my journal that I was done fighting and trying to fix myself and my illness. I was tired of trying to figure out what to eat, what to change in my mindset and how to move through the world so I didn’t have to suffer painful and often embarrassing symptoms anymore.

That’s when I got the clear message that I was to stop doing all the things and start listening.

During that hospital stay I didn’t bring 20 books and a laptop. I was fed up with research and conflicting findings and trying one eating plan after another only to end up back in the hospital bed receiving another 5 pints of blood.

My body was showing me that I had no choice but to be still.

This wasn’t about being still – on a yoga mat – in a particular meditation – or with any specific intention.

This was all about being empty so that I could be present in the moment.

After I was done with my inner tantrum, I realized that this was the true meaning of BEING. Being empty doesn’t mean that I’m void of meaning, rather it means that I’m open to all meaning. What happens in that stillness is that all the things I thought I could outrun by doing come rushing in. (What? You thought I was going to tell you that being

still and empty ascended me to perfect enlightenment? Oh Girl, No.) Everything that I was trying to outrun – my fears of not being enough for anyone to love deeply, my deep-seated sadness about being abandoned, the crappy things I’d done and said to other people throughout my life – came crashing over me. As I stood there

feeling those waves come in, I learned that they wash out nearly as quickly as they come in. At first, I was very uncomfortable, like my first foray into the ocean, but then, as time passed in stillness, I recognized the rhythm of the waves and the repetition moved into a steady lullaby and I started to heal.

I was released from the hospital and made a commitment to myself to pay attention to what was happening in the “background.” Before getting sick, the emotional waves of my life had been pushed to the background, running non-stop, while I did my best to ignore it all by doing, doing, doing.

I spend my life surrounded by busy people. Often, I feel lazy in comparison. I get caught up in the busy sometimes. Before long I hear that small voice inside that reminds me to be still. Now I know that being still is not something to run from and bury under tasks, instead it is the thing that lets the lies I’ve told myself about myself come to light. In the light they have the power to help me heal myself.

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STEVE CHACONAS

GO FISH

Boat Rage

W

e’ve seen it on the highway, and now on waterways… road rage has a companion, BOAT RAGE. We just need to share the water and treat others as we would like to be treated.

Tournament anglers are targeted as the biggest offenders. Tournaments provide a venue and showcase for everything from boats to tackle. Without tournaments, some guys wouldn’t even get out of bed on a Saturday morning for fear that their wife would have them work around the house.

Are bass boat offenders aware of what they are doing, or do they just not care?

Whatever the case, exercise caution, as we live in dangerous times. You never know what someone will do when confronted.

Being out on the water is supposed to be relaxing, but we aren’t alone. Waterways are even more crowded since the war on terrorism. Families have opted for close-tohome activities. Boating has become the choice for many.

But boating experience is in short supply. Many states now require a safe boating course. But these lessons do not include actual boating instruction. It’s a learn as you go proposition. In fact, a bass boater like other boaters can purchase a boat, take the keys and hit the water without any training! This inexperience is

adding fuel to the boat rage fire.

Bass boaters are not the only ones falling prey to their behavior, however they are the most visible because they are in glittery boats that only slow down to fish every once in a while. With enormous outboards and sleek design, many on the water suffer from horsepower envy. Being passed gets the water boiling and tempers flaring. Perhaps the boats are an extension of ego.

In addition, the number of tournaments has reached the out of control stage.

This “industry” has taken over the Potomac and many other waterways.There are tournaments on just about every weekend from March into December, sometimes more than one on Saturday and Sunday! This means hundreds of bass boaters are flying up and down the river at speeds of 50-75 MPH. For some bass boaters, the rage doesn’t begin on the road, but at the ramp. Fishermen on their way to their favorite hole don’t have the patience to wait for other boaters to launch.

Rather than offering assistance, they demonstrate their impatience with comments or even gestures.This activity is repeated when returning to the ramp as well. Some say inexperienced boat launchers should practice elsewhere rather than impeding launches.

Impatience increases as outboards race to and through crowded waterways. Most boaters haven’t a clue how to approach or overtake another vessel and use speed to compensate and dominate.

Taking the shortest distance between two points, bass boaters cross channels, and flats alike to their destinations. No craft is too large or too small to outrun for the bass boater. They have the need for speed and the horses to prove it.

Boats don’t have rear view mirrors. The boater you are about to pass can’t see you. You don’t know what he will do… he doesn’t even know you are there. A close call is too close!

Too many bass boaters drive aggressively with little regard for your safety or theirs.

No wake zones, courteous boating, rules of the road are for the other guys. We are bass fishermen. Fishing too close to another boater or even to someone fishing from the bank.

Hey, we are in a tournament!

Can’t you see my livewell check ribbon?!

Like reckless drivers on the highway, reckless boaters, who place others in danger because of self-imposed demands or deadlines is just plain unacceptable. It’s also illegal.

Mariners who are caught operating their vessels in a reckless manner are subject to both state and federal law.

The State of Virginia is very specific in their “Boat Virginia” booklet: “Reckless operation of a boat or Personal Watercraft (PWC) is illegal in Virginia.

Reckless operation is defined as the failure to exercise care necessary to prevent the endangerment of life, limb, or property of any other person.”

Not to mention not wearing personal floatation devices.

Some angler boaters are have opted for the auto inflatable devices. These light weight life savers are supposed, key word, supposed to inflate when contacting the water. Some inflate in the rain or in storage boxes. Whether or not they

open is irrelevant if not worn.

However, will these will work when they are supposed to?

Better and more comfortable life jackets properly are replacing the auto inflatables.

These too are only effective when worn.

Bottom line, it’s behavior of a few leaving a bad taste.

Perception is reality and the perception of bass boaters is that they are reckless and discourteous. It’s up to all of us to change this.

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.

Potomac River Bassing in May May flowers bring bass in pre-spawn, spawn and post spawn in shallow water.

The best moving bait is Mann’s Baby 1-Minus crankbait. Tie to 12 pound test Gamma Edge fluorocarbon line spooled on a Quantum Smoke HD reel. Cast to wood cover and shallow grass. The key is to be close to cover.

Mann’s Classic spinnerbait on the same line and reel are best when water is a bit stained, skies are overcast, and there’s a bit of chop on the water. Slowly work the bait bouncing off wood and snapping free from grass.

Time for chatter jigs and swim jigs on 14 pound test Edge. Several good colors: black/blue, crawfish patterns and shad. With chatterjigs, swim over cover making contact. For swim jigs, crawl through grass and pop free, allowing baits to fall. Using Jack’s Juice Bait Spray will encourage fish to hold on longer.

Texas rigged Mizmo tubes on Mustad 3/0 Mega Bite hooks are good to pitch to grass clumps and wood targets. Dropshot with 1/0 Mustad Mega Bite hooks with 3/16 BullShot weights.

Old Town Crier

May 2019 | 45

OPEN SPACE

I

pride myself on being a girl’s girl. The friendships I’ve built with other females have sustained me my entire life. I grew up with three brothers so I wasn’t born into a sisterhood, but I learned early on that a girl tribe was important to not only my personal well-being, but also my development and overall sanity. My first childhood bestie had an older sister, and I was jealous of that dynamic except on the days they were fighting like two alley cats. Over the years, I’ve cultivated a veritable garden of friends and they all nourish my soul in different ways.

They feed my need for inner calm, peace and harmony. A few recognize and join me in my need to occasionally howl at the moon. Some join me on the yoga mat; others saddle up next to me for happy hour and venting. A couple others pull up an easel beside me as we encourage each others’ creative muse. Others offer sage professional advice; others relationship wisdom.

They range in age from ten years my junior to a couple decades on the journey ahead of me. A couple of my besties recently joined me at the beach and my sides still hurt from all the raucous laughter.

Lucky for me, my head stopped hurting after only one day from the hangover. Ouch.

46 | May 2019

LORI WELCH BROWN

As we celebrate Mother’s Day this month, I’ve been thinking a lot about ALL the great women in my life— my Mother being the first one on the scene. Mom has been gone from this planet 13 years—long enough that I have to stop and think of the year, but not so long that I’ve forgotten that she loved Dr. Phil, Peppermint Patties, a good pair of worn Levis, flip

voice was the only message instead of some random guy I was hoping would call (they never did when you wanted them to, by the way). Nope.

Only mom. The only constant in my life. I’d step over a million guys to hear her voice again.

I am blessed with a phenomenal girl tribe which I attribute to the unconditional love of that very first member.

to the children, they were all equal. (For the record, Molly may have been 4; kids 5, but I can’t be sure). While I wasn’t blessed with birth sisters, these women are my soul sisters. They are friends, cousins, mentors, colleagues, etc., but they are my sisters nonetheless. I have cried with them, laughed with them, drank with them until the cows came home, and shared

flops and her dog, Molly— not necessarily in that order.

Some days it seems like just yesterday when I would come home to the blinking light on my answering machine and hear her voice calling out,“Looorrrriiii—it’s Mom. Where are you?!,” as if I were merely in the next room.

Regrettably, there were many times in my life when I was sad and annoyed that her

She taught me what it was like to be a woman. She taught me to be kind and turn the other cheek when necessary.

She taught me that the high road was the only road. She wasn’t perfect, but she didn’t let her flaws get in the way of her family. Family first.

Actually—that’s not true.

Her pecking order was: 1) Self; 2) God; 3) Spouse; and 4) Children. Once you got

countless stories and secrets.

They have been my oxygen and my H2O. And, that’s why I’ve been a little unsettled this past month. I hurt another woman. I won’t go into the nitty-gritty details because they don’t matter. What matters is that I am okay and she is not. She wasn’t in my tribe, but we shared a common bond. After ten plus years of knowing each

other, we still didn’t really ‘get’ each other. Some will say we never got along—we didn’t like each other. I don’t think that is a fair assessment. I have crossed paths with a few women I didn’t necessarily ‘like’, but we were able to get along just fine. Not everyone can be in your tribe! We don’t have to all hold hands and sing camp songs to get along in this world. It’s what we refer to as ‘adulting.’ We didn’t communicate well with each other—that was our downfall. Conversations were uncomfortable so I mostly avoided them. She never trusted me, but I knew that was her baggage. I didn’t adequately show my gratitude for the good things and held up a microscope to the bad things. She blames me for things that were out of my control, and I stopped communicating altogether when I felt I could no longer maintain control. I should have and could have done better and for that I am truly sorry. I made a lot of mistakes, but hopefully I’ll learn from them and will be a better woman in the end because of it. In the meantime, I wish her peace, love and light and a tribe of her own as there is no greater gift.

Happy Mother’s Day!!! Hug ‘em if you got ‘em!!!

Old Town Crier

NATIONAL HARBOR

W

e couldn’t think of a more fitting way to celebrate Memorial Day during the month of May than dedicating this space to the U.S. armed forces statues that stand at the foot of American Way here in National Harbor. Representing the five branches of the U.S. military— the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard – these figures are quite impressive as they face the Potomac River with the National Harbor and American Flag sculpture serving as a backdrop.

This is one of several art installments that grace American Way. Aptly called “America’s Dream: Protecting Your Freedom”, this installment was fittingly unveiled last November on Veteran’s Day with several local and national dignitaries in attendance including

Old Town Crier

LANI GERING

former Virginia Senator John Warner. In fact, Warner, who served during World War II and in Korea, was the driving force behind getting the statues created according to a statement by Milt Peterson, principal and chairmen of the Peterson Companies and National Harbor. In fact, the statue of the Marine officer is in Warners image.

The detail in each of these statues is impressive.

According to Peterson, the statues were two years in the making from the time they came up with the idea to the time they were unveiled.

Weather wasn’t exactly their friend during the final stages, if I remember correctly. It is evident that every effort was made to make these figures as authentic as possible. If you look closely you can see that everything about the uniforms - including the hat sizes and name tapes - is in

direct correlation to an actual uniform from each branch.

Warner says the reasons the statues are depicted as lifelike as possible are simple: “We made them life size and very realistic so that people could take a photograph with them and hang it up on the wall and—particularly the young people— aspire someday to wear that uniform.”

These sculptures were created by Ivan Schwartz of StudioEIS in Brooklyn, NY. Schwartz is a world-renown artist working as a sculpture, painter and inventor. He has produced works for public commissions, presidential libraries, museums and sports stadiums. His other works at National Harbor include eight sculptures along American Way—Louis Armstrong, George Washington, Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass and Rosie the Riveter. Like Rosie,

these sculptures have several coats (14 according to Milt Peterson) of airplane paint in order to be able to weather the elements over the long haul.

If you haven’t had a chance to see this fairly new installment, treat yourself to a trip to the Harbor during the Merry Month of May and take in the new sites.

Also of note, the Movies on the Potomac and the Salute to Sunset concerts start up this month as well as the free fitness events during the week.

Check out the calendar of events for specifics. Also, the Flight Deck at the base of the Capital Wheel has two new high definition televisions and a very nice restroom facility as well as a new line of snack foods on the menu. They will be hosting some musical talent throughout the season as well. More on this next month

I FEEL VERY STRONGLY THAT AMERICA MUST, EACH DAY, THINK HOW MUCH THEY OWE TO THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO ARE IN UNIFORM—TODAY, TOMORROW, AND THE FUTURE. WHILE WE SLEEP, THEY’RE PROTECTING US. AND THIS IS A TROUBLED WORLD. – Former U.S. Senator John Warner, Virginia.

May 2019 | 47

MASSAGE • FACIAL • PEDICURE AVAILABLE MAY 1 - 31

RELÂCHE SPA at GAYLORD NATIONAL RESORT LOCATED ACROSS THE RIVER IN NATIONAL HARBOR, MD

call 301.965.4400 or visit RELACHESPA.COM GN19SP014[ad] Mothers Day Relache-Old Town Crier Ad.indd 2

4/25/19 12:18 PM

National Harbor Calendar of Events - May 2019 ONGOING THROUGH SEPTEMBER

ONGOING THROUGH OCTOBER

MAY 18TH THROUGH SEPT. 21ST

Movies on the Potomac On the Big Screen At the Plaza

Fitness on the Potomac On the Plaza

Salute the Sunset Concert Series Plaza Stage 7 pm

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 2nd – Jurassic World, Fallen – The Fate of the Furious 9th – First Man 16th – Robin Hood 23rd – Ant-Man and The Wasp 30th – Crazy Rich Asians

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 – Teaser Fitness Wednesdays – Zumba Saturdays – Yoga

World-class performances by bands from the nation’s Armed Forces at National Harbor stir the hearts and souls of civilians and military 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.

MAY 4TH & 5TH

18th - Sea Chanters Vocal Ensemble - The United States Navy’s official chorus.

11th Annual National Wine & Food Festival On The Waterfront

Family Night Movies – 6 pm 5th – The Little Rascals 12th – Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse 19th – The Incredibles 2 26th – The Lego Batman Movie

Saturday VIP Admission Noon-6pm General Admission Saturday 1pm-6pm Sunday Gospel Brunch 11am-5pm Sunday VIP Admission Noon-5pm General Admission Sunday Noon-5pm Ticket information - www.drinkeatrelax.com

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

A World-Class, Waterfront, Culinary Event. Join in the excitement of the 11th Annual National Wine and Food Festival at National Harbor; bringing together worldrenowned chefs, artisanal craftsmen, and culinary pioneers with thousands of Metro DC’s foodies.

48 48 || May April2019 May 2019 2019

24th – Pershing’s Own - “Pershing’s Own” is home to 15 world-class percussionists performing a vast spectrum of instruments showcasing a wide variety of musical styles.

25th & 27th - Airmen Of Note - The Airmen of Note is the premier jazz ensemble of the United States Air Force.

@oldtowncrier

Old Town Crier

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