Old Town Crier- June 2017 Full Issue

Since 1988 • Priceless

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

June 2018

Road Trip

“THE JEWEL OF THE CHESAPEAKE” North Beach, Maryland Personality Profile

OUR “FOUR” FATHERS An insight to local Dads!

Business Profile

“EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE” Lulu Sage Salon & Spa Dining Out

AL FRESCO DINING Our Favorites In and Around Old Town!

Across the River

THE HARBOR IS HEATING UP!

june’18 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 SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE Ashley Schultz DESIGN & PRODUCTION Electronic Ink 9 Royal Street, SE Leesburg, VA 20175 703. 669. 5502

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

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

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

A Father Figure.............................................................. 28

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

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

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

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

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

CONTRIBUTORS Melinda Myers Ron Powers Kim Putens Julie Reardon Caroline Simpson Ashley Schultz Bob Tagert Carl Trevisan Ryan Unverzagt Lori Welch Brown Molly Winans

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Road Trip...........................................................................24

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

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

Social Media Message....................................................2

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

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

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

Dining Out.......................................................................30

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

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

© 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Since 1988 • Priceless

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

June 2018

Road Trip

“THE JEWEL OF THE CHESAPEAKE” North Beach, Maryland Personality Profile

OUR “FOUR” FATHERS An insight to local Dads!

Business Profile

“EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE” Lulu Sage Salon & Spa Dining Out

AL FRESCO DINING Our Favorites In and Around Old Town!

Across the River

THE HARBOR IS HEATING UP!

about the cover The sun rises on the Chesapeake Bay on a lazy summer morning. This is the view from the pier on the boardwalk in North Beach, MD. Photo by CM Photography

on the road with OTC The Old Town Crier was spotted at The Ramgarh Bungalows in India in March of this year. Abraham Borum III and his wife, with their extended family, are pictured here. They report that they had a wonderful time and enjoyed staying in the 160 year old structures that were built as a summer get-away.

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!

Old Town Crier

June 2018 | 1

PUBLISHER’S NOTES

BOB TAGERT

It looks like spring has finally decided to stay. Starting off the week with three days of rain was a little much but it did rid us of some of the pollen that has plagued many of you. I do, however, hope that the 80’s will hang around for a few months before the high 90’s of August arrive.

Speaking of nice weather, check out the Dining Out column for some of our favorite places for a good meal and al fresco dining. Miriam Kramer takes us on a ride “on the hurtling comet of Robin William’s life and career” as she reviews the new book, Robin in Last Word. Peggie Arvidson gives some advice to new Grads in Spiritual Renaissance. Our Road Trip this month takes us to the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay and the Town of North Beach. They have a lot going on in June, so the time is right for a road trip to one of the closest sandy beaches to Old Town. Lori Welch Brown is doing double duty this month as she celebrates our “Four Fathers”…a look inside the life of 4 local dads…in the Personality Profile.

Ron Powers revisits Mick Jagger, the legendary front man of The Rolling Stones in High Notes. Lori Welch Brown addresses social media in a social world in her popular column, Open Space. In A Bit of History, Sarah Becker looks at hemp over the generations and how Mount Vernon has planted an industrial cultivar of hemp on their 4 acre farm. This and much more awaits in the following pages.

We can’t forget about all those dads out there – here’s wishing you all a great Father’s Day. You might want to take a look at the “manly” recipe in the Let’s Eat column and put that pork roast on the menu for the big day.

Take some time out for yourselves and get out there and enjoy the weather while it lasts!

SOCIAL MEDIA MESSAGE

ASHLEY SCHULTZ

Social Media and the Gaming World

C

andy Crush? Words with Friends?

Farmville? Mafia Wars?

Sound Familiar? There is no doubt that we are suffering from significantly diminished attention spans at this point in history, and social media and gaming has contributed in no small part to this. According to Statista, an online statistics portal, gaming is a $99.6 billion dollar industry and social media has been playing an increasing role in shaping it. The social

2 | June 2018

media gaming industry in the U.S is worth around $2.15 billion, competing with Asia, which is $2.5 billion.

How is social media driving the gaming industry? Facebook launched its “Instant Games” feature in 2016. “Instant Games,” is an HTML5, which is a markup language used for structuring and presenting

content on the Internet, it allows people to play a host of games without installing new applications. This became popular because of our everdecreasing attention spans and impatience!

Social Media has also allowed gaming to focus more on peer involvement. There is that stereotype that the average gamer is an isolated geek with no social life who spends most of his time playing games in his mother’s basement eating Cheetos. This is no longer true.

I have been a gamer for most of my life and, most of the time, I play my games in the living room of my boyfriend’s parent’s house, and it is Red Hot Chips…..not Cheetos! Just a little humor there.

Alexander Carin, a former gamer who is now a lawyer specializing in divorce litigation, has seen files where a spouse or child is so deeply enmeshed in the mutually addicting aspects of gaming and social media

that it supplants their job or family. He stated, “ Contrary to the average gamer, who used to be an anonymous teenager without a social life, many gamers today are actively engaged on social media-often sharing game hints with friends, uploading walkthroughs and progress videos and even discussing directions of their favorite games.”

With the explosion that the gaming industry has experienced thanks to social media, it is only expected that businesses will try to capitalize on this as a means to increase exposure for their services— and indeed, they have. Social gaming ads are on the rise, and research shows that ads in social games significantly outperform other forms of social media marketing.

One study found that the average engagement rate of social gaming ads is 20 percent, compared with just 0.5 percent for Facebook brand pages.

With the use of games, social media executives were able to find a way to keep users logged in and engaged. Competitive streaks come to the forefront, bragging rights with high scores are posted, and friendships are either kindled or broken. Social Media has proven that it is going to continue to be an ever-driving force in all aspects of our lives.

Like us on Facebook! @oldtowncrier Old Town Crier

Alexandria JUNE TOURS, EXHIBITS, EVENTS

JUNE 2ND THROUGH 23RD

JUNE 8TH

“The Nance”

Alexandria After-Work Concert Series: The Cigar Box String Band

The Little Theatre of Alexandria 600 Wolfe St. 703-683-0496 www.thelittletheatre.com It’s 1930s New York, a time when it was easy to “play gay,” but dangerous to be gay. A headliner called “The Nance” was usually played by a straight man who would portray a campy homosexual in musical vaudeville parodies. However, in this drama, Chauncey Miles not only plays a gay man but is a homosexual himself. “The Nance” will take you into the wild world of burlesque and tell the backstage story of Chauncey and his fellow performers. Come see the winner of three Tony Awards.

SATURDAYS JUNE 2ND THROUGH LABOR DAY WEEKEND Telling Their Story: Hamilton BFF & Frenemies 10:00 a.m Gadsby’s Tavern Museum 134 North Royal Street Admission: $12 per person; $10 for Society members and volunteers 703-746-4242 Shop.AlexandriaVA.gov/Events Hamilton’s world emerges through the rooms of Gadsby’s Tavern Museum. Hear about Hamilton’s “BFF’s and Frenemies” who all came to the tavern—Washington, Lafayette, Jefferson, Madison and Burr— alongside stories from enslaved men and women working at the tavern, like Candas and Moses. Grapple with the realities of early America and how these stories intertwined to start a new nation.

JUNE 2ND 10th Annual Taste of Del Ray Food Festival 1-3 p.m.

Admission: $15 adults; $5 children Up & Down Mount Vernon Ave www.visitdelray.com Mark your calendars, clean your palates and prepare to sample menu favorites from award-winning restaurants at the 10th Annual Taste of Del Ray. Top neighborhood restaurants will participate in this delicious competition taking place at the Pat Miller Neighborhood Square and the adjacent United Bank parking lot, located at the intersection of Mount Vernon Avenue and Oxford Avenue. For ticket information, visit www.visitdelray. com.

Old Town Crier

6-8 p.m.

Admission: $15 suggested donation to musicians Murray-Dick-Fawcett House 517 Prince Street www.alexandriava.gov/historic Co-sponsored by the Office of Historic Alexandria and the Folklore Society of Greater Washington, join us for monthly Friday-night concerts on the second Friday of the month. The June 8 concert features The Cigar Box String Band from Williamsburg, Virginia. In years past, Americans enjoyed music in ways that are forgotten today. Even without radio, television, boom boxes or iPods, music was everywhere. Wherever people gathered, they would play and sing the popular songs of the day, a practice that seems to have disappeared except at Christmas when we sing carols together.

The Cigar Box String Band has made it a mission to bring music alive again at public gatherings, playing Old-Time music on combinations of banjo, fiddle, guitar, harmonica, bass, washboard and bones for any happy occasion! Great music with a $15 suggested donation for the musicians. No ticket required— show up and enjoy the music! Beer and wine for sale; light refreshments available as well.

LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS OLD TOWN FARMERS MARKET MARKET SQUARE • 301 KING ST SATURDAY 7 A.M. – NOON, YEAR ROUND

isn’t enough, this is the tour for you! This one-hour tour spends more time in the historic retail shop and laboratory of the old apothecary and is led by an expert guide.

Free parking in Market Square garage during market hours People who come to Alexandria on Saturday mornings find themselves in a busy plaza where local farmers and artists have been selling their products since 1753. Old Town Alexandria’s Market Square is thought to be one of the nation’s oldest continually operating farmers markets, serving as a primary source of meat, dairy, fish, fruits and vegetables for Alexandrians.

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

JUNE 14TH

DEL RAY FARMERS MARKET

Second Thursday at the Torpedo Factory

CORNER OF E. OXFORD & MOUNT VERNON AVES SATURDAY 8 A.M. – NOON, YEAR ROUND

Art Center 6:00-9:00 p.m.

Admission: Free Torpedo Factory Art Center 105 N. Union Street www.torpedofactory.org

The Del Ray Market is producer grown, with fresh vegetables and fruits in season. All year round, this market offers meats, eggs, fresh pasta and sauces, Amish cheese, yogurt, bakery goods, eggs, jams and jellies, fancy nuts and bakery goods.

Every second Thursday visit until 9 p.m. and browse open studios and galleries, get to know the artists, and enjoy special programming throughout the building. Don’t miss the monthly lecture series, Torpedo Talks, at 8 p.m. in the Main Hall. This series features

NORTH MONTGOMERY PARK • 901 N. ROYAL ST THURSDAY 3 – 7 P.M., YEAR ROUND, WEATHER PERMITTING

CALENDAR > PAGE 7

NORTH MONTGOMERY PARK FARMERS MARKET

The market will feature local growers, bakers, and other area providers of wholesome foods including Twin Springs, Grace's Pastries, Bread & Water, and Relay Foods.

ALEXANDRIA CALENDAR> PAGE 3

JUNE 9TH 7th Annual D-Day Commemoration 2:30-5 p.m.

Admission: Free Market Square 301 King St. 703-746-4242 www.alexandriava.gov/gadsbystavern Join us for a celebration of the 74th anniversary of D-Day with the AlexandriaCaen Sister Cities Committee. The program will include WWII reenactors, vehicles and static displays, period music from “Blue Jazz” along with swing dancing on Market Square, and an official remembrance ceremony with Alexandria elected officials. Children are encouraged to attend and all activities are free!

10th Apothecary Museum Geek Tours: Behind the Scenes 11 a.m.-noon Admission: $15 Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum 105 S. Fairfax Sreet 703-746-3852 www.alexandriava.gov/Apothecary If the regular 30-minute tour of the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum

June 2018 | 3

PERSONALITY PROFILE

LORI WELCH BROWN

C E L E B R AT I N G O U R

“Four Fathers” ~ A Look Inside Local Dads ~

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hrough the ages, we’ve extolled the virtues of many famous fathers. We were taught about our founding fathers in history, recently celebrated the birth of the father of our nation, dance to the beat of the father of rock & roll, and wail to the sounds of the godfather of soul. And, of course, depending upon your beliefs, there’s the heavenly father who trumps them all. This month, however, we pay homage to all of the dads who aren’t in the limelight or history books—the men who humbly serve the needs of others sans the fanfare and paparazzi. They are real action heroes—their days filled with the actions of supporting, teaching, lifting, nurturing, mentoring, protecting, feeding, leading, and loving. Here are four dads we think are extraordinary!

I didn’t have to travel far to find my first awesome dad. As a matter of fact, I happen to live in a quiet, suburban cul-de-sac with quite a few of them, but David Earle stands out in the crowd as the dad of two fair-haired beauties, Delainey and Nora. I say ‘quiet’ cul-de-sac, but it’s actually anything but since Delainey (4 yo) and Nora (3 yo) hit the scene.

David always wanted to be a dad, but had no idea what he was in store for raising girls. He tells me, “I guess what surprised me is how loud they can be. I thought girls would be prim and proper, but their fights rival the ones I had with my twin brother.”

David and his wife, Kristen, tried for a while to get pregnant so David said at the point it happened, he was just so happy that gender didn’t matter.

“Everyone wants a boy to carry on the name, but I was just thrilled that I was going to finally be a dad.” Delainey’s birth wasn’t without incident, however.

She came out with the cord wrapped around her neck and wasn’t breathing.

Their precious bundle spent the next seven days in the NICU. Talk about stress. David is one of four children himself (twin + 2 older sisters) so he had an inkling of what he wanted his own family unit to resemble. “I see 4 | June 2018

Delainey, David & Nora Earle

Jason Desjardins & son Max

John and Kerry McCaslin

Bill Moran with Gio

Photo courtesy of D. Earle

Photo courtesy of John McCaslin

my role as teaching my girls how to be independent and self-sufficient,” says David. “The big difference for me in raising girls is that I’m probably more aware of the ‘creepy’ people factor. I have to be vigilant because they seem so vulnerable right now.” David credits his own dad (and mom) for providing a strong foundation for the dad he has become. “I always understood I was loved no matter what,” says David.

“My job is to love my girls and point them in the right direction, but I’m not gonna lie—I’m a little freaked out about the female issues I’ll have to deal with at some point.” Future boyfriends beware!

Like David, Jason Desjardins put

Photo courtesy of J. Desjardins

Photo courtesy of B. Moran

fatherhood as a top priority in his life so imagine the disappointment that he and his wife Lisa felt after ten years of trying with no success. While his path to fatherhood was challenging, it has been no less rewarding. Jason and Lisa welcomed baby Max into their lives through adoption in 2016.

Jason’s own childhood was far from perfect so his goal was to provide a child with a loving atmosphere that he never knew existed. “We adopted Max when I was 45. When you’re that age, you’ve seen and done a lot of things so nothing really amazed me anymore. Through Max’s eyes, I now have a new appreciation for life. I look forward to every single day, to

discovering the new word, the new song. The world is magical again,” he says. While Jason had imagined that he would be a dad by the age of 30, the longer wait didn’t prepare him for that first year with baby Max. “The first year was rough,” admitted Jason. “He wasn’t sleeping much and there wasn’t much in the way of reciprocating love.

It was pretty much feeding, changing diapers, and managing fevers which seemed to occur every other day or so. Thanks to the internet, anything that happens you see as worst case scenario. When Max had a fever and was coughing through the night, one search would lead me to a rabbit’s hole of potential diseases. After that first year, however, things changed.

He started communicating and it was a game changer for me.” For Jason, fatherhood has meant a new lifestyle.

“You start taking care of someone else first. Then yourself. I totally forget that Max is adopted. He is my son,” says Jason proudly. “Adoption is an extreme challenge in this country. The fact that he is adopted just makes it that much more precious.” And, precious doesn’t even begin to describe Max. Jason and Lisa are looking to adopt a second child in the near future. To learn more about them/their story, go to 3adopt. com.

Of course, not every parenting situation is the same. Alexandria native John McCaslin’s daughter Kerry was just four years old when he and his wife divorced. Fortunately, John’s then career as a syndicated political columnist enabled him to work from home a great deal of the time. When he needed to broadcast ‘on air,’ Kerry joined him in studio where there was no shortage of willing babysitters.

John’s side gig as a travel writer took he and Kerry to many exotic locales which often required pulling her out of school. John reminded her teachers “the world is a book, and she who does not travel only reads one page.”

Kerry—now 30—remains an avid traveler to this day. Both parents were PERSONALITY PROFILE > PAGE 29

Old Town Crier

FINANCIAL FOCUS

I

CARL TREVISAN, CFP© & STEPHEN BEARCE

Is a Will or Trust Right for You?

f you have a will, there’s a question you should be asking yourself: “Do I also need a trust?” You might be surprised. A revocable living trust can be a useful estate-planning tool for people at all income levels, not just the very rich, says Lisa Montano, an Estate Planning Strategist for Wells Fargo Advisors.

else or an institution. If you are serving as trustee, you’ll need to name a successor trustee to distribute your assets at your death.

A properly created living trust may be more expensive to set up than a simple will, but it gives you greater control over when and how your assets will be distributed after your death, Montano says.

Knowing the basics

Other benefits

“It depends on your individual circumstances, but most people should at least consider a revocable living trust,” Montano says. You set up the trust and then transfer your property and other assets into it. Most people name themselves as trustee— the person who manages the assets within the trust—but you can also choose someone

Here are three other advantages of trusts: • Avoid probate. Probate is the process the court system uses to distribute your assets according to the terms of your will. If you have a trust, you avoid the fees and delays associated with probate.

Old Town Crier

• Privacy protection.

Because probate is a public process, anyone can go to the courthouse and see the details of your will, Montano says. A living trust will keep the terms of your estate secret.

• Built-in incapacity planning. If you have a financial durable power of attorney (POA), you have already named someone to take over your affairs in case you become incapacitated, but Montano says it can be difficult for an agent named under a POA to step in and handle your financial matters. In contrast, with a revocable living trust, successor trustees seem to have an easier time having their powers recognized by financial institutions.

However, if you have a revocable living trust, it

is still advisable to have a POA. A successor trustee has power to manage only trust assets.

legal advice.

Trust services available through banking and trust affiliates in addition to non-affiliated companies of Wells Fargo Advisors. Any estate plan should

The importance of a will

be reviewed by an attorney who

If you have a simple estate, don’t have a lot of assets, and live in a state that doesn’t have a lengthy or complicated probate process, a simple will may be all you need, Montano says, but consult with a qualified estate planning attorney first.

One final note: If you decide to create a revocable living trust, make sure you discuss with your attorney how to put assets into the trust, otherwise those assets may still be subjected to the probate process.

licensed to practice law in your state.

Our firm does not provide tax or

specializes in estate planning and is This article was written by/for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Carl M. Trevisan, Managing Director-Investments and Stephen M. Bearce, First Vice PresidentInvestments in Alexandria, VA at 800247-8602.

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.

© 2018 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

June 2018 | 5

BUSINESS PROFILE

LANI GERING

Lulu Sage

Experience the Difference!

LULU SAGE SALON & SPA 610 MADISON STREET OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA 703-894-0709 LULUSAGESALONANDSPA.COM

T

ime really flies when you are having fun. I can’t believe that it has been over six years since we first met Cindy Sage and introduced Lulu Sage Salon and Spa to the salon and spa scene here in Old Town Alexandria.

Located a bit off the beaten path on Madison Street in the north end of town, Lulu Sage is still bringing a little different salon atmosphere to the area.

When I conducted my first interview, I asked what prompted Sage to open her own salon after being in the business for 22 years. She told me that after spending that many years working for someone else, it was her time to “shine”. Well, six plus years later she has indeed done that. With 7 full time stylists on board - and room for one more – and one of Old Town’s most popular nail technicians, Nila, in house, she has made a name for herself in Old Town.

When asked what she thought set Lulu Sage apart, Cindy said, “When I decided to open a salon of my own, I wanted an upscale salon but I also wanted it to be designed in a way that made it a comfortable and approachable environment for clients to relax and be 6 | June 2018

pampered. The concept here at Lulu is to make your beauty regimen something to look forward to rather than another thing on your “to do” list.” I can confirm the fact that she got what she wanted. The salon is indeed both upscale and inviting.

Cindy has a fabulous reputation when it comes to color – I know this via comments from several close friends of mine who are very picky – and she assures me that the other members of her team are just as talented. While I was conducting this interview I saw some fabulous haircuts taking place as well.

While the “hair is the thing”, the salon and spa offers a full line of services for your nails as well as waxing for both men and women. Cindy told me that one would probably be surprised at the number of guys that come in for both manicures and waxing. Father’s Day is coming up – see their special in their ad in this issue.

Lulu Sage prides themselves on using only quality products including the likes of Coldwell, Surface, Biodroga, iBiza, the the popular Kerastase in addition to several other lines. Most of these products are available for purchase so you can continue your hair regime at home.

Since I personally don’t frequent a salon of any sort on a regular basis (I might have to revisit that in the near future), I am not sure if other salons offer a “loyalty” program. Lulu Sage does. The Lulu Sage Rewards Program allows you to earn Loyalty Points for services rendered. Once you earn 2,500 Points you can cash them in for a $25 Lulu Sage Gift Certificate. For example: • Pre-Book a Service = 250 pts • Refer a New Client = 250 pts • Make a Retail Purchase of $80+ = 250 pts • Purchase one or more gift cards (min purchase $50) = 250 pts It is that simple.

BUSINESS PROFILE > PAGE 7

Old Town Crier

BUSINESS PROFILE | FROM PAGE 6

If you are new to the area or are looking for a very comfortable yet upscale salon, treat yourself to this one. I know there are many of you who are very loyal to your current hair guru but you will inevitably be in the market for someone new in the future.

Keep Lulu Sage in mind.

Lulu Sage is open 7 days a week with Sunday being by appointment only. They also take walk-ins but there are no guarantees. If you have something you need last minute, it would be a good idea to call ahead to see if there is a chair open or if there has been a cancellation.

CALENDAR | FROM PAGE 3

some of the contemporary art world’s best-known artists, art curators and art professionals.

JUNE 17TH Father’s Day Open Houses in Historic Alexandria Various times Admission: Free for visiting fathers; prices vary by location Friendship Firehouse Museum, 107 S. Alfred Street Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 S. Fairfax Street www.visitalexandriava.com/summer In honor of Father’s Day, dads will receive free admission to some of Alexandria’s premier historic sites and have the opportunity to peruse the grounds once frequented by America’s founding fathers.

JUNE 21ST Til the World Turned Upside Down – Uniforms of the American Revolutionary War 7:00 p.m.

Admission:$20 per person The Lyceum: Alexandria’s History Museum 201 S. Washington Street 703-746-4994 Shop.AlexandriaVA.gov/Events In honor of “Hamilton” premiering in Washington, D.C., join us at The Lyceum: Alexandria’s History Museum on Thursday, June 21 for an evening exploring the uniforms from the different nationalities that converged on Yorktown in 1781. Chris Daley, historical clothing manager for the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation will give you the opportunity to try on and compare uniform coats of the French, German and American armies, and coats worn by African Americans serving with the British army.

Each coat has been carefully researched and painstakingly reproduced in several sizes to help bring the Siege of Yorktown to life. Bring a camera and take photos of yourself and family members in the

Old Town Crier

Any Stylists Out There Looking for a New Location?

The Lulu Sage team is dedicated to keeping up with new technology and the latest innovative styling techniques. Lulu Sage offers competitive pay in an exciting, upscale environment. If Lulu Sage sounds like a place you would like to introduce your clients to and show your talents, please contact Cindy at 703-894-0709 or feel free to stop in and request an application.

uniforms of the Revolutionary War. On October 14, 1781, Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, commander of a light infantry division under General Marquis de Lafayette, led a successful assault of Redoubt 10 at the flank of the British defensive line. Five days later, the British surrendered in what was to be the last major battle of the American Revolution. Hamilton fought with and against soldiers from America, France, England, and Germany and the siege provided a snapshot of the great scope of what was in many ways a world war.

This event includes a reception with beer, wine, and light refreshments. The reception begins at 7 p.m. with the program beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 and may be purchased at Shop.

AlexandriaVA.gov/Events or by calling 703-746-4994.

p.m. Greet General and Mrs. Washington in the historic area before trying your hand at bocce ball. Dust off your dancing shoes for 18th-century dancing demonstrations. Mount Vernon’s colonial artisans will reveal how 18th-century ice cream was made in the days before freezers. Visit Washington’s Tomb at night—this event is one of the few times this area is open in the evening—and watch sparks fly at blacksmith shop.

Concessions from the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant will also be available.

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

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

JUNE 23RD 5th Annual “Well Ray” Festival 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.

Admission: Free Along Mount Vernon Ave. between Custis and Uhler Avenues www.wellraydelray.com Well Ray is a community-wide effort to highlight resources for living healthily and happily. Browse health and lifestyle inspired tents, take free exercise classes and more. Check out wellness-inspired fashion from local fitness clothing designers, jewelers and boutiques.

Presented by the Del Ray Business Association.

WASHINGTONIAN’S TOP 100

JUNE 29TH & 30TH Independence Fireworks at Mount Vernon 6:00-9:45 p.m.

Admission: Fireworks with mansion tour: $35 for adults; $25 for youth; no mansion tour: $30 for adults; $20 for youth George Washington’s Mount Vernon 3200 Mount Vernon Highway 703-780-2000 www.mountvernon.org/fireworks Enjoy a patriotic evening filled with dazzling fireworks, mansion tours, musical performances and games on George Washington’s beloved estate!

Fireworks begin at approximately 9:30

SPECTACULAR SEAFOOD • CREOLE & CAJUN SPECIALTIES 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 June 2018 | 7

8 | June 2018

Old Town Crier

THE LAST WORD

MIRIAM R. KRAMER

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his past month entertainment writer Dave Itzkoff released Robin, an intriguing, detailed biography that tracks the hurtling comet of Robin Williams’ life and career, solving some mysteries, presenting others, and laying him to rest for his many fans.

Many of us receive breaking news on our smartphones.

On August 11, 2014 I was sitting at a coffee shop when a news alert said that Robin Williams had died by committing suicide. While I generally filter entertainment obituaries at a distance, this time I was floored. Hearing this news felt like losing a friend. It was especially bizarre and sorrowful to hear it so impersonally, in a tiny flashing line of text, about someone who seemed so gentle, kind, and joyful: someone who brought so many people happiness with his comedy. It was terrible to think that he hurt so badly that he would take this way out. When I heard that this book was going to be released it immediately went to the top of my to-read list because I wanted to learn more about him and to understand why he ended his life on his own terms.

Itzkoff ’s extensive work traces Robin’s childhood as the son of a wealthy Ford Motor company executive and his socialite wife who moved frequently and traveled often, leaving Robin at home with their hired help. He grew up in a conservative Midwestern area outside Detroit, where he went to private schools, earned A’s, and wore a suit and tie. Playing with his collection of toy soldiers as a youngster, Robin staved off his loneliness through enacting Old Town Crier

elaborate, dramatic battle scenes that may have mirrored some of his own natural internal contradictions.

In 1968, when his parents moved to Marin County outside of San Francisco, CA, Robin attended a school almost diametrically opposite in tone and type to the one he had left in Michigan.

Adopting liberal California values that better paralleled his own highly imaginative personality, he went to Claremont Men’s College (now Claremont McKenna College) outside of Los

Angeles with the intention of eventually becoming a Foreign Service officer.

There he first started acting and doing improv, charming many women with his charisma. By spending all his time acting, he flunked out.

Afterwards he moved back home, attending the College of Marin, where he focused his energies on theater. After auditioning, he obtained a scholarship to attend Juilliard’s acting conservatory, meeting one of his good friends, Christopher Reeve, there. He befuddled some of his acting

instructors, who found him to be so individual that it was almost impossible to break down his idiosyncrasies.

When Robin left Juilliard early to return to the San Francisco area, he began doing improv and standup comedy at clubs in the area.

After meeting his girlfriend and eventual first wife, Valerie Velardi, at a club, they decided to move to Los Angeles so that he could measure himself against the competition in a city that celebrated standups.

Exploding on the scene in a way that no one had

previously seen at the Improv and the famed Comedy Store, he easily secured representation with the highly prestigious Rollins, Joffe, Morra & Brezner agency.

Robin skyrocketed into the television stratosphere by acting the part of the alien Mork from Ork on the Mork & Mindy show, where he could expand on all the crazy, manic personalities that his improv and standup presented. As a kind, funny individual, he had many friends in comedy and improv, but was so unique that he sometimes had trouble working seamlessly in an improv troupe. While he stood out and intimidated others with his lightningstrike mind, his individuality also increased his feelings of being an “other,” someone whose zany impressions and high-wattage persona hid a shy and often quiet man who rarely let others see beyond his many personae.

Through Itzkoff ’s thorough research and multiple interviews with Robin’s friends, colleagues, and family, Robin appears as a comedic and dramatic actor so original that he found it hard even to locate the right movies or programs in which to star. He was nominated for four Academy awards and eventually won Best Supporting Actor for Good Will Hunting. For every critical or commercial success such as Dead Poets’ Society, Good Morning Vietnam, The Birdcage, or Mrs. Doubtfire, he picked multiple bombs that fed his need to keep working frenetically at any cost. In total he featured or starred in over seventy movies, many of which few could name without research.

Afflicted with self-doubt, THE LAST WORD > PAGE 29

June 2018 | 9

HIGH NOTES

M

ick Jagger, the legendary front man of The Rolling Stones, is an artist who needs no introduction. Though his sex appeal and charismatic attitude have helped shape the image of rock and roll and super-stardom as we know it, today, Mick Jagger is still going strong, making music that transcends genre definitions and ideas. His newest single “Gotta Get A Grip” is a solo effort performed without “The Rolling Stones”. It features rock and blues influences, which echo the sound and feel of Jagger’s “Stones” however, as a solo artist he introduces a strong electronic production element, which adds a modern and unique feel to these tracks, making it very dance-floor friendly.

Many songs have a versechorus-verse sort of approach to the lyrics. However, this track has a vocal arrangement that feels particularly freeform, almost as if Mick Jagger 10 | June 2018

RON POWERS

Mick Jagger Gotta Get A Grip + Remixes was throwing out lyrics in a stream-of-consciousness fashion, like the eminent beat poets (Think Jack Kerouac or Allen Ginsberg).

But we must say, Jagger still holds his own, even when he is slightly out of his comfort zone. Positioning for a new era and new generation of music lovers, the song has been re-worked by a few current remix artists big (Seeb and Alok) and small (Kevin Parker and Matt Clifford).

There are 4 unique takes on “Gotta Get A Grip”, starting with a melody-vocal-driven remix by Seeb.

The remix by Kevin Parker has a different feel to it, and it

definitely has a raw, energetic edge that highlights Jagger’s unique performance, and puts the guitar under the spotlight, with an arrangement that echoes 70s rock icons such as Led Zeppelin.

Alok is the third artist to remix the song, and my favorite of all the mixes going for a really unique feel that captures more of the essence of “The Rolling Stones” as we know them. It is textural and haunting, with tons of atmospheric segmentations, and in the end, it is probably the “heaviest” or “hardest” rock of the set. Going by the Play count on Spotify, this seems to be the favorite of

most people, getting almost twice as many plays as Mick’s own original track.

Last, but not least, Matt Clifford is perhaps the artist who really took greater chances, completely reinventing the tone of the song, with eastern folk instruments that echo the Middle East and India, especially cool sitar sounds and unique melodic phrasings.

“Gotta Get A Grip” is certainly a very edgy song, that still retains Jagger’s seemly endless charisma.

The British singer belongs to that rare category of artists and performers who seemingly seem to never

lose their appeal and vitality.

Mick Jagger still sounds like a performer at his prime, and his voice is more animated than that of singers half his age or younger.

It’s absolutely remarkable to see that someone who has accomplished so much throughout the span of a really great music career can still keep at it with undying enthusiasm, passion and commitment. At this point in his career, it is clear that Jagger does not need to prove anything, and he knows it.

This is why he does what he wants, and creates music with a uniquely in-your-face vibe, that still stands the test of time!

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

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

Old Town Crier

music festivals 1' 8 If you like music and the outdoors, these festivals are the best for you, your family and friends to attend. Come for the day or camp the weekend.

Support local and international artists performing around our area.

May 4-6 Sleepy Creek “Springdig” Sleepy Creek on the Potomac Joshua Lane Berkeley Springs WV sleepycreekpresents. com/springdig May 4-5 24th Annual Cheat River Festival Albright, WV cheatfest.org May 19 – 20 Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival Sandy Point State Park,

gravesmountain.com/ events-calendar/ festival-of-music/

Annapolis, MD bayblues.org May 24 – 27 Delfest Allegany County Fairgrounds Cumberland, MD delfest.com

May 31 - June 2 Mountain Music Festival ACE ADVENTURE RESORT New River Gorge, WV aceraft.com/event/ annual-mountainmusic-festival/

May 24-27 Rooster Walk Pop’s Farm Axton, Virginia, VA roosterwalk.com May 31 - June 2 Graves Mountain Festival of Music Graves Mountain Lodge Syria, VA

June 14 – 17 Firefly Music Festival Dover International Speedway Dover, DE fireflyfestival.com

AFTER HOURS Birchmere 703.549.7500 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave. birchmere.com The Blackwall Hitch 571-982-3577 5 Cameron St. theblackwallhitch.com Carlyle Club 411 John Carlyle Dr. 703-549-8957 thecarlyleclub.com Chadwicks 203 S. Strand St. 703.836.4442 Evening Star Cafe 703.549.5051 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave.

Old Town Crier

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O’Connell’s 703.739.1124 112 King St. Rock It Grill 703.739.2274 1319 King St. Shooter McGees 703.751.9266 5239 Duke St. shootermcgees.com Southside 815 703.836.6222 815 S. Washington St. St. Elmos 703.739.9268 2300 Mt. Vernon Ave. Taverna Cretekou 703.548.8688 818 King St.

TJ Stones 703.548.1004 608 Montgomery St. tjstones.com Trattoria da Franco 703-548-9338 305 S. Washington St. Two Nineteen 703.549.1141 219 King St. These establishments offer live entertainment.

Call to confirm show times, dates and cover charges. Check our advertisers’ websites

June 2018 | 11

GALLERY BEAT

F. LENNOX CAMPELLO

VS

T

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

Like anything, there are notable, but rare, exceptions; off the top of my head, the only one which I can think up is the dynamic duo of Jack Rasmussen and KristiAnne Shaer at American University’s Katzen Art Museum, coupled with the wonderful Alper Initiative.

Add to that the fact that one of the unexpected benefits of the Trawick Prize and the Bethesda Painting Awards has been that they have “forced” the hired DC, VA and MD area museum professionals and curators to look at the work of artists from the region; some amazing success stories have spawned from that exposure. Area artists should be very grateful to Ms. Trawick and Ms. Alper for all

Please be happy by Amy Lin 12 | June 2018

that that they have done and continue to do for the fine arts around the capital region.

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

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

As a result, one can count in one hand the number of area artists (local or otherwise) who have had their first ever museum show in a DC

area museum. And yet, even major museums (such as the Whitney in New York) have given our regional artists their first museum solos, although this is becoming rarer and rarer.

Example: I know that I wasn’t the only one amazed to find out that the now gone Corcoran’s Sam Gilliam retrospective about two decades ago was the first solo museum show by arguably DC’s best-known painter. The Corcoran is gone, but Sam is at the zenith of his career!

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

have.

Furthermore, because of the sad lack of coverage by the DC local media of the DC local art scene and events, our museum professionals have to spend more personal time (which they often lack) to “learn” about DC area artists and galleries, rather than learning from reading, as they do about what’s going on in NYC and LA and Miami and Seattle from the national art magazines, or perhaps the coverage that those cities’ news media gives to their local arts.

And so it takes an “extra” effort on the part of a DC museum curator to get his or her interest aroused on any event in the local scene. Some of it is networking (a big name museum donor demands a visit to a gallery or a studio), some of it is financial (they are paid to jury a show), some of it is media-driven (such as the rare positive review in the even rarer

Please be perfect so Daddy will want another by Amy Lin

news media coverage), and some of it is accidental (such as a curator admiring the work of a “new” artist in a LA gallery only to be told that the artist is a DC artist).

All of these have happened in my experience.

Here’s a little test that I suspect 8 out of 10 local museum professionals would fail: “Mr./Ms. _____, can you quickly name for us about five contemporary artists from anywhere and five contemporary DC area artists whose work you admire and why?”

If anyone does ask, please email me his/her response.

I’ll end with a happy story on one success, and the hope that more stories like this will continue to happen.

Anne Collins Goodyear and Amy Lin Many summers ago, Dr. Anne Collins Goodyear (who was at the time the Assistant Curator of Prints & Drawings at the National Portrait Gallery) juried a show GALLERY BEAT > PAGE 13

Please be beautiful by Amy Lin Old Town Crier

GALLERY BEAT | FROM PAGE 12

at Touchstone Gallery and selected one of then DC area artist Amy Lin’s pieces for the show. Then later that same year, she juried the All-Media Membership Show at the Art League Gallery in Old Town Alexandria, and gave one of Lin’s drawings an Honorable Mention.

Lin and Dr. Collins Goodyear met at the gallery reception for that show and Lin invited Anne to a group show that Lin was part of at the Pierce School that same month. Lin told me that “not only did she want to come,

[but also] she wanted to make an appointment so that she could see the work and talk to me about it at the same time!”

The two subsequently met at the Pierce School and Dr. Collins Goodyear looked at Lin’s art and discussed it with the artist. In May of that year, Lin was offered a solo show at DCAC. Since Lin needed a curator for the DCAC show, and since she knew that Anne was interested and familiar with her work, she asked Dr. Collins Goodyear to curate Lin’s solo at DCAC and Dr. Collins Goodyear agreed to do it.

Several studio visits (as well as an essay about the

show) later, the show was curated and was a resounding success, which then led to Lin being picked up and subsequently represented by Addison-Ripley Fine Art, easily one of the top fine arts galleries in the region.

Lin’s career skyrocketed, and the artist (who now lives in South Africa), now shows worldwide.

That was a curator who was willing to spend part of her precious time working and looking in her own backyard and who exemplified (above and beyond) the sort of interest that we would expect, once in a while, from our area curators as part of their job.

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Old Town Crier

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June 2018 | 13

MELINDA MYERS

URBAN GARDEN

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ummer means time spent gardening and relaxing with friends.

And just like the kitchen in winter, the patio or deck tends to be the gathering spot when the weather turns warm.

Get the most from this space with a bit of preseason planning and decorating.

Select functional and beautiful furnishings to create a special spot for you, family and friends to enjoy whenever the weather allows.

First, sketch out the space and measure the dimensions of all furnishings you are considering, making sure they will fit. Allow extra space for people to pull chairs in and out from the table and navigate around furnishings, preferably 3 to 4 feet.

Next, select a table that fits the space and provides ample serving space. An extension table allows you to expand your surface if a few more folks drop by. A round folding table provides space for guests, and it can be stashed against the wall when

14 | June 2018

Adding Appeal to your Patio or Deck

workspace is needed.

Small and large-space gardeners will enjoy the benefits of elevated gardens with built-in trellises. These maximize growing space even on a small deck or patio and bring the garden to the party. Look for self-watering planters and especially those with wheels so you can easily move them out of the way of a family gathering or closer to the kitchen for easy harvesting.

Include a multifunctional piece like a potting bench.

Look for a versatile and well-built, furniture-quality piece like that complements other furnishings and can be used as a serving surface when entertaining. Consider features like a faucet for washing and watering that drains into a bucket or the ground, as well as hooks for hanging tools and baskets and space for storage.

Bring nature to your door and mask unwanted background noise with the soothing sound of water.

Wall-mounted and container

fountains add the sound and motion of water to even the smallest patios and decks.

Watch for colorful winged visitors stopping by for a sip.

Extend your enjoyment into the evening with pleasing outdoor lighting. Make sure the light is deflected and not shining directly into visitors’ eyes. Downward facing overhead lights brighten large areas. Use them to illuminate key spaces such as those used for cooking. Strands of lights on structures, ribs of an umbrella or the underside of a bar provide a festive touch.

Use tabletop lighting to create a more intimate mood. Outdoor flameless candles add warmth to your space while a Columbine Solar Lantern adds charm.

Look for a style that complements your outdoor décor.

Add pathway lighting to direct guests to the patio or on a stroll through the garden. Solar lighting allows flexibility and eliminates the need for trenching wires to a power source. Think beyond

traditional pathway and railing lighting. Strategically placed upward lighting of structures and plants or downward lighting hung from above can also provide needed illumination.

Whatever the size of your patio or deck you can create an inviting outdoor space for gardening and entertaining.

Just invest a bit of time planning and shopping for attractive and functional furnishings. Then sit back and relax in your newly decorated space.

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

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

Old Town Crier

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Submit your best images to be featured on the cover of the Old Town Crier each month in 2018!  Dimensions: 10.75 x 15.25in @ 300dpi  Photographer must be Local to the DMV  Subject Matter must be relative to the season (holidays included)  Info for Photo Credit with any copyright info must accompany submission  Please include a short blurb (1-2 sentences) about your image & contact info. for the ToC page  Compensation: Photo credit and front cover exposure  Submit images to office@oldtowncrier.com Photo: Lauren Fleming lfbphoto.smugmug.com

Old Town Crier

June 2018 | 15

A BIT OF HISTORY

SARAH BECKER ©2018

HEMP'S HECTIC HISTORY

“H

istory doesn’t drive economies anymore…,” George Mason University economist Stephen Fuller told the Washingtonian in May. He may be right. The Alexandria Convention and Visitors Bureau’s slogan, Still Making History gave way to the ACVA’s Funside of the Potomac years ago. How does Alexandria describe today’s customer groups, its external publics; then develop a marketing plan?

Management guru Peter Drucker defines marketing as the “whole firm taken from the customer’s point of view.”

How do you see through the customer’s eyes? It involves “massive surveys.” Marketing is needed “to reach customers and compel them to purchase, use and repurchase your product [or service].”

A marketing strategy is the selection of a target market, the choice of a competitive position, and the development of an effective marketing mix to reach and serve the chosen customers. The market pick is preceded by market segmentation. Segmentation variables include age, sex, income, occupation, attitude preference and more.

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum may be the only Alexandria museum able to develop offerings with broad appeal: to historic and business travelers, women and minorities, the religious and scientifically inclined. I 16 | June 2018

know because I inherited the Apothecary Museum with only 8,000 visitors and six months financial life remaining. Yet within a few years I increased the annual visitor count to 34,500; established the Mortar & Pestle Society; raised general operating and capital improvement funds, and an endowment. Buildings restoration over, the Museum,

then owned by the Landmarks Society was ribbon wrapped and given to the city.

By comparison…“2016 marks ten years of ownership and operation by the city of Alexandria,” the Office of Historic Alexandria reported on November 29, 2016.

“The Apothecary Museum welcomes more than 15,000 visitors annually.”

Clockwise, from top: Stabler Leadbeater Apothecary Museum Cannabis John Leadbeater

“The city doesn’t offer the attributes the new economy is looking for,” Fuller concluded.

“They need a plan and I don’t think they have one.”

How might the Apothecary Museum attract today’s allegedly uninterested millennial? In 1619 the Virginia Assembly passed legislation requiring every colonial farmer to grow hemp.

Hemp, used in the production of rope, sails and clothing also traded as legal tender. Mount Vernon’s George Washington grew hemp, as part of the sailing industry.

In 1792, young Quaker and apothecary Edward Stabler borrowed 100 pounds to buy stock for his Alexandria shop.

“Records do not tell us what feelings of uncertainty he may have harbored in relation to his venture,” Eleanor Leadbeater wrote in 1934, “but they do show that his business prospered to such an extent that he was able to return the loan and double his stock of goods during the first year.

The original bill, dated June 1792, came from Townsend Speakman of Philadelphia and contained about one hundred and fifty items, amounting to 120 pounds, 10 shillings and 6 pence, or, as was written underneath 96 pounds, 2 shillings and 3 pence in Virginia currency.” The shop’s corporate history dates from 1792 to 1933.

Medicinal preparations of hemp became available in the 1850s, on in-law John Leadbeater’s watch.

Cannabis is the mixture of dried flowers and leaves that comes from the hemp plant. It was a “fashionable narcotic,” The New York Daily Times said in 1854.

“Two recent articles in Blackwood’s Magazine, on the ‘Narcotics we indulge in,’ have attracted more than ordinary A BIT OF HISTORY > PAGE 17

Old Town Crier

A BIT OF HISTORY | FROM PAGE 16

attention: tobacco, hops, opium, hemp, &c.,” The New York Daily Times continued.

“Smokers, the intellectual class of them, especially, think, speak, and write better under its influence; and the mere fact, that they are inferior to themselves without it, is a good reason for supposing that it creates an abnormal condition….”

The 1854 United States Dispensary describes cannabis as an extract of hemp. It “acts as a decided aphrodisiac, increases the appetite, and occasionally induces the cataleptic state. In morbid states it has been found to produce sleep, to allay spasm, to compose nervous inquietude, and to relieve pain.

In these respects it resembles opium in its operation; but it differs from that narcotic in not diminishing the appetite, checking the secretions, or constipating the bowels. It is much less certain in its effects; but may sometimes be preferably employed, when opium is contraindicated by its nauseating or constipating effects. The complaints to which it has been specially recommended are neuralgia, gout, tetanus, hydrophobia, epidemic cholera, convulsions, chorea, hysteria, mental depression, insanity, and uterine hemorrhage….”

“Fifty years ago a knowledge of the curative properties of ‘roots an’ yerbs’ cut no small figure in the list of a good farm-wife’s accomplishments,” The New York Times reported in 1902. “Today, except in remote places, the quaint old remedies are without honor.

Perhaps the most honored of all the tonics was that concocted from hemp…When needed about a teaspoon of the chips was placed in a bottle, with a pint of whisky, and a half teaspoonful of the resulting fluid was given the patient each morning before breakfast. This medicine… ranked high as an appetizer.”

“The reading of the Pure Food bill…was completed,” The New York Times recounted in 1906. “[The bill] compels the labels of patent medicines to bear a statement of the amount of alcohol or poisons contained in the preparations…For every case of ptomaine poisoning from meat there are a hundred cases of poisoning from hurtful drugs masquerading as helpful medicines.” Cannabis was labeled as a poison beginning Old Town Crier

in 1906.

“In its effort to protect the public against the insidious effects of preparations containing drugs injurious to health, the Department of Agriculture has issued a warning to mothers, invalids, and users of medicated soft drinks,” The New York Times wrote in 1910. “It is almost unbelievable that any one for the sake of a few dollars would concoct a pernicious mixture, but such mixtures have been found, and their names published, containing morphine, codeine, opium, cannabis Indica, or heroin.

Some of the harmful nostrums are advertised as cures for asthma, catarrh, cold, coughs, consumption, epilepsy, and the tobacco habit.”

The Harrison Drug Act passed in 1914. The Uniform State Narcotic Act was drafted beginning in 1925. The Federal Bureau of Narcotics (FBN) was established in 1930 as part of the government’s broader push to outlaw recreational drugs.

“Since changes in the postal regulations went into effect, we have not been able to get any poisons by mail from a single manufacturer,” E.S. Leadbeater & Sons noted on July 29, 1914.

By 1933, the year of the Leadbeater Drug Corporation’s closing, 29 states had criminalized cannabis. “As a stimulant to crime cannabis is probably as important as cocaine, certainly far more so than opium or any of its derivatives, and narcotic control agencies will be put in a severe test in rooting out the traffic,” Dr. Irving S. Cutting noted in 1936.

In 1970 the federal government forbade, still forbids the use of cannabis for any reason. Yet as of 2016 medical cannabis was again legal in the majority of states, Virginia excluded. A dilemma Haircuts $15 Shampoo, Cut & Blow Dry $18 (extra charge for long hair) Scissors Cut $17+up

how? The external message what?

Marketing is a factual measure of message appeal.

In Alexandria’s museum world, a world of places and events, locals depend disproportionately on pull power. The marketing mix includes four p’s: place, product, price and promotion.

Columnist’s Note: On May 10, Chef Patrick O’Connell, in celebration of the Inn at Little Washington’s 40th anniversary joined Mount Vernon President Douglas Bradburn and Director of Horticulture Dean Norton to plant garden seeds. Director Norton’s talent is unmatched. As is Chef O’Connell’s cuisine. Food festivities resume on June 16, a gala dinner event.

On May 3 Parker A. Poodle, Crier scribe and faithful companion was invited to read with 75 second grade students at Lyles Crouch Traditional Academy. His March column Dog Gone It America, Read! caught librarian Celeste Knoll and teachers’ attention. Parker shared three of his favorite books: Rocket Writes a Story, portions of What Do You Do With An Idea? and Go, Dog, Go! Thanks to all who participated.

Sarah Becker started writing for The Economist while a graduate student in England. Similar publications followed. She joined the Crier in 1996 while serving on the Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association Board.

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

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

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703-836-1916

Monday-Friday 9 am-7 pm • Saturday 9 am-6 pm We care and will give you only the best!

Biolage • Vital Nutrient • Socolor • Matrix Perm • Paul Mitchell • Nexxus June 2018 | 17

POINTS ON PETS

CINDY MCGOVERN

Understanding the Most Common Tests Performed by Veterinarians

I

recently took my 11-year old, outwardly healthy cat in for her annual checkup and vaccinations. In addition to the normal physical exam, this visit included blood work and urinalysis. I’ve had the same vet for almost 20 years and I trust his judgment. But after seeing the $400 bill, I decided to learn more about the detailed laboratory tests that were done.

One reason these tests are done is because your pet can’t tell you how they feel and they can help identify conditions the physical exam can’t. The tests also establish a benchmark of health for the animal, which is particularly helpful as your pet ages. You can think about these tests as similar to the blood pressure measurements that are taken each time you visit the doctor.

Blood Tests By definition, a screening blood test is a test done to detect disease before its symptoms manifest. They are also important for

animals of all ages who are undergoing surgery. A complete blood count, or CBC, is the most common blood test performed on pets and people, as it provides a window into your pet’s overall health. It gives information on hydration status, anemia, infection, the blood’s clotting ability, and the ability of the immune system to respond to infection. This test is essential for pets with fevers, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, pale gums, or loss of appetite. If your pet needs surgery, a CBC can also detect some bleeding disorders or other unseen abnormalities that might impact their recovery.

The blood work may also include blood chemistries.

These common blood serum tests evaluate organ function, electrolyte status, hormone levels and more. They are important in evaluating older pets; pets with vomiting, diarrhea or toxin exposure; pets receiving long-term medications; and pet health before anesthesia.

ADOPTION CALENDAR FOR DETAILS & MORE INFO website: www.kingstreetcats.org email: contact@kingstreetcats.org 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.

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 | June 2018

The following are the most common blood chemistry tests: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine help indicate kidney health. While BUN can also be affected by hydration level and certain liver conditions, creatinine is a fairly specific indication of kidney function. Creatinine levels that fall outside the normal range can be an indication of kidney disease, infection, or failure.

ALT and bilirubin indicate liver health. When a liver is not functioning properly, these levels might increase.

Noting changes in the levels of these chemicals in the blood over time will identify a liver problem.

Amylase and lipase are sometimes measured to indicate pancreatitis.

However, these are not the most sensitive way to diagnose that condition, and animals with pancreatitis could have normal amylase and lipase levels.

Blood glucose levels are measured to diagnose diabetes

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mellitus, during which glucose is high. Your vet may measure blood glucose levels if you’ve noticed your pet drinking water, urinating or eating excessively. Low blood glucose levels can indicate liver failure from other causes.

Electrolyte, such as potassium, sodium, and chloride levels can be affected by a wide variety of illnesses and conditions, including dehydration, kidney failure, and Addison’s disease.

Thyroxine (T4) levels provide general information about thyroid condition.

Thyroid disease is common in

dogs and cats, especially older ones. Dogs usually have low thyroid issues while cats have increased thyroid hormone disease. Because thyroid disease can resemble other conditions, a separate thyroid test may be called for.

Thyroid disease can usually be managed, but the sooner it’s caught and treated, the better.

A heartworm test identifies whether or not a dog is infected by heartworms.

Heartworm disease is serious and can eventually cause death, so most veterinarians POINTS ON PETS > PAGE 19

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Old Town Crier

POINTS ON PETS | FROM PAGE 18

recommend testing yearly, even if the dog is on heartworm medication. The majority of the time, this test is done quickly in the veterinarian’s office by means of a SNAP test which looks for proteins from the parasite in the blood. Early detection of the disease is critical to the success of treatment.

Feline Leukemia (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) are common tests for kittens and cats, especially those whose history isn’t well known. FIV is sometimes called feline “AIDS” because like HIV, it attacks the immune system and makes the cat vulnerable to infections. FeLV weakens the immune system, but also increases their risk of lymphosarcoma, a highly malignant cancer. FIV and FeLV are serious diseases, but they are not death sentences and cats can still live a good life with them.

Stool Samples Stool samples are used to screen for various parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium. Giardia lives in your dog’s intestines and infects older dogs, but more frequently puppies. Dogs become infected when they swallow Giardia in water or other substances that’s been soiled with feces. Diarrhea is the most common symptom and long-term infection can cause weight loss, poor health and in severe cases, death.

Cryptosporidiosis causes gastroenteritis and diarrhea,

but is less common in dogs and cats than farm animals.

It usually presents as diarrhea and can be severe in young or weak animals or those with a compromised immune system.

The eggs of other parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms, can be found in stool samples, as well as adult worms or tapeworm segments.

Excellent Care When Your Dog or Cat Has an Emergency

Urine Samples

We provide exceptional emergency care when your dogs and cats need it.

Pet emergencies are stressful and often frightening for both pets and their owners. We’re here for you.

Open 24 hours a day/365 days a year, including holidays, our Emergency Clinic is staffed with a highly qualified team including two critical care specialists. With a state-of-the-art hospital design and all new equipment, it includes: Intensive Care Unit ▪ Oxygen Cage ▪ Isolation Unit ▪ Treatment Room Radiology & On-Site Lab ▪ Surgery Unit ▪ Four Exam Rooms Walk-ins are welcome. If possible, please call 703.361.8287 and let us know you are coming.

Testing a urine sample can help uncover infections, bladder stones and diabetes.

These tests are important if your pet shows increased urine volume, increased drinking of water or frequent short urinations. Normal urine is typically yellow or amber in color and is usually transparent or clear.

The presence of diseases or infections may change the color or clarity. A large number of red blood cells in urine usually indicates bleeding somewhere in the urinary tract, while large numbers of white blood cells can indicate infection. A large amount of bacteria may also indicate infection.

If you have questions or don’t understand the test being done, be sure to ask your vet. While no one wants to conduct unnecessary tests, they do help show the pet’s health and can detect diseases in the early stages. In my case, the patient is in excellent metabolic health.

Emergency ■ Internal Medicine ■ Surgery Behavior Medicine ■ Ophthalmology 8614 Centreville Road ■ Manassas, VA 20110 703.361.8287 ■ www.vrc-nova.com

About the Author: Cindy McGovern is a King Street Cats volunteer and supports two Siberian cats.

PETS OF THE MONTH

ANDY

Tree Walking Hound, Tan/White, Neutered Male, 1 year old

BELLA

Domestic Shorthair, Tabby/ White, Spayed Female, 10 years old

OLD SCHOOL

Fancy Guinea Pig, Black/White

Please call 703-746-4774 or email adoptions@alexandriaanimals.org for more information and come visit me at the shelter today!

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

Andy - I’m a year old pup and I’m in need of a home who will be able to teach me all about how to be a well-mannered dog! I have a ton of energy and my I love, love, love playing with other dogs, but please no cats. I am a big strong boy and I would do best in a home with no small children - as I’m still just a kid myself! If you are looking for an active new playmate and willing to teach me all sorts of manners and tricks please stop by and see me - I’m ready for my next adventure!

Sweet, sweet Bella. This older brown tabby is looking for a quiet home where she rules the roost. Bella is perfect for you if you’re a single

adult or living with other adults. She’s nervous around children and should not live in a home with dogs. With other cats, take it slowly and introduce them over time so they both get comfortable with each other. In that environment, Bella will bloom with her true personality shining out. Bella responds well to attention and loves her treats. Have both in plenteous supply and Bella will warm your heart and your home.

Old School is just as cute as he can be! He’s just a little ball of black and white fur. He’s a bit timid and hand-shy but once he gets to know you, we’re convinced he’ll be a great companion.

June 2018 | 19

CARIBBEAN CONNECTION

land. Laurence Rockefeller deeded approximately 9,500 acres of rolling green hills and underwater preserve to the federal government more than 40 years ago. There are 22 selfguided hiking trails within the Virgin Islands National Park, where visitors can discover ancient petroglyphs and beautiful foliage along the way.

Sensational St. John

S

t. John, the smallest of the three U.S. Virgin Islands, retains a tranquil, unspoiled beauty uncommon in the Caribbean or anywhere else in the world. Settled in the early 1700’s by Danish immigrants attracted to the island’s potential as a sugar cane producing colony, St. John soon blossomed into a thriving economy. The island’s unspoiled forests and stunning beaches attracted the attention of wealthy families who sought privacy and tranquility on the island. In 1956, Laurence Rockefeller was so moved by the island

20 | June 2018

that he bought and donated broad expanses of land to the National Park Service to keep St. John “a thing of joy forever.” St. John was recently voted “Best Island in the Caribbean/Atlantic” by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s prestigious annual Readers’ Choice Awards poll.

The following are some of the island’s highlights and attractions:

Virgin Islands National Park Two-thirds of St. John’s 19 square miles is designated as protected national park

Ecotourism Sustainable tourism programs and environmentally safe practices keep the island pristine and clean. Even more so since the destruction caused by hurricanes Irma and Marie last fall. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate the previous resources of the natural environment while enjoying the island’s beauty. Numerous ecotourism activities and attractions ensure the preservation of natural resources and ecosystems.

Unique Accommodations St. John offers a variety of accommodation styles to suit all tastes and preferences. The island has two major luxury

resorts – Caneel Bay Resort, and The Westin St. John. In addition, there are a plethora of villas, condominiums, and bed and breakfast inns from which to choose. St. John is also home to several ecotourism resorts and campgrounds for a closer-tonature experience.

Two towns/two personalities – Cruz Bay and Coral Bay In downtown Cruz Bay, visitors can enjoy the shops and restaurants at Mongoose Junction or Wharfside Village.

Coral Bay is an especially scenic town, boasting the highest point of elevation in the U.S. Virgin Islands. These two Bays definitely have two distinct personalities – Coral Bay is very laid back and rustic with a very cool “hippy” vibe while Cruz Bay is alive with nightlife and shopping and home to the more upscale villas.

Annaberg Ruins This former sugar plantation maintains a wealth of history and cultural folklore. Travelers can revisit CARIBBEAN CONNECTION > PAGE 21

Old Town Crier

CARRIBEAN CONNECTION FROM PAGE 20

the remnants of plantation life and the occupation of slaves during the 18th century. Park rangers conduct demonstrations of cultural traditions, including basket weaving, music and dance, each week.

the surface. Divers enjoy venturing into the deep waters off St. John, particularly near Carvelle Rock and other points near the Pillsbury Sound where the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean come together.

Beautiful Beaches

Getting Around the Island

St. John offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, including Trunk Bay and Hawkesnest Bay.

Water-based Activities Snorkeling, “snuba” and scuba diving are ways to explore St. John’s underwater paradise. Visitors interact with extraordinary flora and fauna at Trunk Bay, where underwater placards placed on the snorkeling trail describe the surrounding ecology. Colorful fish and coral are abundant in the waters off this island. Snuba, an activity that combines the skills of snorkeling and introductory diving skills, is an option for visitors not quite ready for scuba diving, but interested in exploring the island up to 20 feet beneath

k

To explore St. John’s unique terrain, visitors can rent a jeep or a 4 x 4 vehicle for getting around the island. St. John has many steep hills and “hook backs” that lead to the most

breathtaking landscapes and overlooks in the Caribbean.

Only a 20-minute ferry ride away is the island of St. Thomas – perfect for a day trip.

For more information about St. John and the other islands call 800-372-USVI or log on to www. usvitourism.vi – you can always contact us here at the Old Town Crier for inside information garnered from our trips and our contacts on island. office@ oldtowncrier.com

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

Ann Street Gardens

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MYSTERY READING AT ITS BEST

by Virginia author Jeffrey Roswell McCord

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

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

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

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June 2018 | 21

FROM THE BAY …

MOLLY WINANS

Summer Sailstice Free and Open to the Whole World

I OUR FRANTIC, OVER-SCHEDULED, SMART-PHONEBUZZY LIVES GET IN THE WAY OF SAILING.

22 | June 2018

have written about my beau’s serious sailing addiction before. The man has a problem. It’s not even summer yet, and he went sailing four times last week. Yes, in case you’re wondering, he does have a job. He commutes from Annapolis to Arlington, VA, three days per week and still managed to go sailing four times last week, two evenings and two afternoons. Given his addiction, my editing the sailing magazine SpinSheet, our proximity to the water, and the ease with which he throws off his lines, friends assume that sailing just happens for us.

What envious friends do not see are the unromantic hours we spend rearranging the puzzle pieces of our lives and plotting out sailing days on a shared Google calendar. Two professionals with the usual sailing barriers—commuting, family complications, work that flows into the weekend—couldn’t possibly go cruising for 10

weekends in a season without serious advanced planning.

Many cruisers, racers, and daysailors, who love sailing with all their hearts, are lucky to make it out on the water one entire weekend this season. The many masts you see at port on the sunniest, breeziest weekends prove it.

Our frantic, over-scheduled, smart-phone-buzzy lives get in the way of sailing.

Frustrated with this phenomenon, John Arndt of the mother of all regional sailing rags, Latitude 38, in San Francisco, CA, decided to do something about it and unite all types of sailors— from the reservoir sailors of Nebraska, to the offshore racers of New England, to the windsurfers of Oregon, to the gunkholing cruisers of the Chesapeake Bay. “It takes an event on the calendar to remind people to make the time for sailing,” he says. He created the Summer Sailstice, a global event, set for the Saturday and Sunday nearest to the summer

solstice, June 21. The whole world is invited. It’s free.

If you sign up on summersailstice.com and go sailing June 23 and/or 24, you also qualify for prizes: a free charter week in the British Virgin Islands, a Hobie inflatable kayak, an adventure catamaran sail, winches, sailing shoes, a lifejacket, and a bunch of neat swag. Sailors may also enter contests, such as the best sunset photo or story, largest number of boats at a Sailstice event, largest crew, longest distance sailed, and largest fish caught.

The Sailstice should appeal to loners, racers, and flotilla lovers alike; it doesn’t matter if you sail in a group, by yourself on a Sunfish, or with your best friend in a quiet creek. Maybe you don’t sail and don’t know anyone who does, so you choose to find a fully captained boat, such as Annapolis’s Schooner Woodwind or DC Sail’s American Spirit. All you have to do is block off one day, June 23 or 24, and go sailing.

A few years ago, we attempted to participate in Shearwater Sailing Club’s Twilight Race off Annapolis.

The wind had other plans for us and died at the start. All but one participating crew rolled up its sails and motored for shore. We heard the chatter on the radio: “Catalina 27 fleet meet at Davis’ Pub… See you J/105 sailors at the Boatyard Bar & Grill.” My sailing addict had to chime in and announce, “We’re going to drink and drift.” And we did.

We swam, told stories, killed some rum and ginger beer, caught the slightest of breezes for a short while, and savored a stunning sunset.

Arndt appreciated my happy drifter story. He says, “We’re all so digitized these days, we don’t know how to be in the moment. This event gives us a chance to reconnect and be in the moment… and feel like sailors together.” Click to summersailstice.com to sign up for one day only. June 23 or 24. I’m in. Are you?

Old Town Crier

Spring

has Arrived in

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June 2018 | 23

ROAD TRIP

BOB TAGERT

Photo: CM Photography

North Beach, Mary land W

The Jewel of the Chesapeake Bay!

ith warm weather finally moving in we thought it a good time to head to the beach…North Beach that is! The iconic Chesapeake Bay Bridge was first opened in 1952 allowing access to the beaches of the Atlantic Ocean. Before that bridge, folks from Washington, D.C. and Virginia would take their weekend retreats to the western coast of the Chesapeake Bay and one of the most popular venues was North Beach in Calvert County.

Located on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, the town of North Beach epitomizes the expression “land of pleasant living.” The seven-block waterfront has a fishing pier and a half-mile-long boardwalk.

The boardwalk forms the bulkhead to the bay at the southern end and flares out into a sandy beach at the north end. This past winter the town initiated a reclamation project to replenish the sand. On nice and not so nice days you will find locals and visitors enjoying a walk, sunbathing and enjoying the refreshing Chesapeake Bay. The boardwalk has numerous benches for casual strollers to rest and watch the boats sail on the bay. The town encompasses a wildlife refuge in its tidal marshland where native species make their home and seasonal migrants find a welcome place to rest.

North Beach experienced a renovation at the hands of Mother Nature when Hurricane Isabel hit in 2003. Many homes and other buildings were destroyed and some never rebuilt. The older homes lost were replaced with brightly colored new homes and a condominium complex. Walking through the town gives one the feeling that they might be in Key West. There are a number

24 | June 2018

of shops where you can spend the afternoon and dining accommodations ranging from a casual Neptune’s and Mama Lucia to the elegant Westlawn Inn. In the early1900’s the town provided an ideal site for the vacation cottages of parttime residents from the city as well as the homes for working watermen. You can still see the classic bay-built boats out on the water either hauling up crab pots, oystering or taking out anglers to try their luck with bottom fishing or trolling for the popular striped bass or “Rockfish”. When the Bay Bridge opened, the summer crowds at the western shore getaways began going to the Atlantic beaches. The end of legalized gambling was the final blow that ended the heyday of North Beach as well as other waterfront towns.

Recent years have produced a rebirth of civic pride and a sense of community. Flower gardens blossom and the popular Friday Night Farmers Market is jammed with locals. The sense of community is strong, and the people are very friendly. Visitors flock to North Beach each June for the House and Garden Tour and the End Hunger Dragon Boat Festival. On June 23rd is the Art Festival/Sculpture Competition as well as the popular DrinkMaryland.

This year the town will be sponsoring the 2nd Annual North Beach Film Festival featuring 20-plus nationally produced independent films over the June 22nd weekend. The festival offers a mixture of films spanning all genres including feature length comedies, jazz documentaries, student films and animated biopics. The festival is produced in partnership with the Town of North Beach, Surge Collective

Old Town Crier

Neptunes ROAD TRIP FROM PAGE 24

Group and sponsored by Bay Wine and Spirits, North Beach Business Loop, Bonnie Augostino and Vetflix.org This year the films will include Mike Kravinsky’s “Nothing to Do”. The WWI animated film Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero presented by Vetflix.org (admission is free for veterans and children) and the short film directorial debut of Huntingtown High School student, Grady Armaost’s “Cube”. The festival features post screening O&A’s, VIP opening night party, an awards brunch as well as a VIP scavenger hunt. For schedule, tickets and info please visit www.nbff.net.

Also located in North Beach is the Bayside History Museum. The mission of the museum

Westlawn is to provide all citizens with an understanding of the role of the Chesapeake Bay environment had in shaping the cultures of the bayside communities from Galesville to Plum Point, from prehistoric times to the present. Through research and interpretation of collections, historical education and preservation of historical resources, the Bayside History Museum promotes stewardship of this heritage and ensures the continuation of the relationship for future generations.

The direct route to reach North Beach is to take the Beltway to Route 4 south and take the exit for North Beach.

The better way is to grab your GPS and plot a course on the back roads. That will make this a real Road Trip!

Beach Views

Boardwalk & Pier

Funky old house NBAFF

North Beach Town Hall Old Town Crier

North Beach from water June 2018 | 25

TO THE BLUE RIDGE

JULIE REARDON

Photos: Nancy Milburn Kleck

History, Tradition Modern Horse

S

how horses are arriving from all over the country for the granddaddy of all horse shows, the Upperville Colt & Horse Show. Started by a local farmer whose descendants still live in the area, Upperville is the country’s oldest horse show and will be holding its 165nd edition June 4 – 10 at the same location, the venerable old show grounds at Grafton and Salem Farms on Rt. 50 west of Middleburg.

This show, one of the country’s most prestigious, has been held annually since 1853. Prior to the first edition, horses, especially stallions, were shown at county and state fairs, but there were no separate shows just for horses. Upperville was started by a group of locals to improve horse breeding and these days hosts the top hunters and jumpers from all over the country but still holds classes for colts and fillies too young to be ridden.

Still an important part of the social fabric of rural Virginia, horse shows FROM THE BLUE RIDGE > PAGE 28

26 | June 2018

Twilight Polo Old Town Crier

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Background photo by John McCaslin

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Congratulations Liz Johnson and Mountain View Marketing

The Old Town Crier is proud to announce that Mountain View Marketing has been chosen as the “Best of the Best” Advertising Agency in Culpeper 2018 for the 4th consecutive year.

Contact Liz for your advertising and marketing needs.

Mountain View Marketing 540.675.1201 • liz@mountainviewmarketingllc.com www.mountainviewmarketingllc.com

29 Main On the River

• A quaint cottage on the Thornton River in the heart of the Village of Sperryville • Originally an old blacksmith shop • Spacious one room suite • Private deck that overlooks the Thornton River • Private bathroom with shower • Outdoor shower • Within walking distance to local bars, wineries, restaurants and the Shenandoah National Park • Available via Airbnb or VRBO • Within 1 hr of Washington DC Available for nightly or weekly stays Contact patricia@cheriwoodard.com for availability

Old Town Crier

June 2018 | 27

FROM THE BLUE RIDGE FROM PAGE 26

are held all over the state every weekend, small and large, English and Western, casual and formal. For every horse and rider, there is a class somewhere at a show somewhere—children too young to ride on their own have “leadline” classes where a parent or adult leads the pony; there are “short stirrup” classes for beginner riders, children’s and adult classes and open classes where anyone, including professionals, can compete. There are classes “in hand” for miniature horses too small to be ridden, young horses and horses being judged on conformation or grooming and presentation; there are trail classes with obstacles the horse and/or rider must navigate; there are equitation classes where the rider is judged, pleasure and hunter classes where the horse is judged on its movement and smoothness, and jumper classes where the horse is penalized for knocking down rails and clear rounds are called back to do a timed jump off. There are also shows for specific breeds and colors of horses, like Tennessee walking

horses, Quarter Horses, paints and palominos.

Of all these shows, the hunter and jumper show is probably the most common in the Blue Ridge. These shows can be informal “schooling shows” where many top riders get their start, or rated shows that are run in accordance with the rules of the U.S. Hunter Jumper Foundation.

Upperville’s show is an AA

Heather Heider and son Clayton

Photo: Nancy Milburn Kleck

rated show, as befits the country’s oldest and one of its most prestigious. Many of the country’s top show hunters and jumpers, and top junior and amateur riders come to compete under the oaks at Upperville, a show that’s long been a favorite of both competitors and spectators.

On the grounds there’ll be pony rides, arts and craft exhibits, boutiques, children’s games, a wide variety of food offerings, and a hound demonstration preceding the Sunday, June 10th premier event, the Upperville Jumper Classic.

Offering over $200,000 in prize money this year, it is expected to field the best jumpers in the world, who crisscross the globe to compete for big money and international rankings.

The show is open June 4 through the 10th at 8 a.m., admission is $10 per person with children under 12 accompanied by an adult admitted free. For information or a complete schedule, visit the website www.Upperville. com Another hunt country tradition, polo, also gets underway at this time of year, (weather permitting—many fields are waterlogged at press time). Games are open to the public at Banbury Cross in Middleburg and at Great Meadow in The Plains every week through September.

Although arena polo doesn’t have the long history of the Upperville Colt & Horse Show,

its popularity with city and country folks alike has been enduring as it enters its third decade in this area. Great Meadow, host to the Virginia Gold Cup steeplechase races, hosts mostly arena games; Banbury Cross hosts arena and field polo. These two clubs, plus a few others, have over 100 playing members, making it one of the largest concentration of players and games on the East Coast in summer. Young professionals as well as families gather at Banbury Cross and Great Meadow with tailgates and picnics to watch the games; both offer general admission plus reserved tailgating spaces. Usually two matches are held plus tournaments and special charity fundraiser games; most games offer after parties and socializing with the players. Ticket prices vary by venue, for information and/or directions call or visit BanburyCrossPoloClub.com or call their hotline at 833 BBX POLO; for Great Meadow’s schedule and reserved rail side party spots, call the event line at (540) 253-5001, or visit: www.greatmeadow.org

TriangulateDC.com

28 | June 2018

Old Town Crier

A Father Figure

By Caroline Simpson

T

here is a myriad of females in my family.

Starting with my Mom; she has three sisters.

Out of my ten cousins, there are only two boys, and I am one of two daughters.

I love being from a femalefull family. The girl power factor is unbeatable. There was always an opportunity for late night girl talks on the phone, not to mention the never-ending understanding associated with female companionship, and, of course, the ability to cathartically cry for absolutely no reason. I am one very lucky girl, and during this time of year, I am forced to think…my poor father!

I frequently wondered if the fathers of all these females: my dad, my uncles, and my grandfather, ever truly wished for sons. Even if they never outright said it, isn’t it is

PERSONALITY PROFILE FROM PAGE 4

active in Kerry’s life—and, although Kerry might label her dad as ‘overprotective,’ John made it a point to be there for her every day regardless of where he was or what he was doing. ”Loving your child is the most important thing any parent can do, and that takes no effort whatsoever,” says John. “And, it was Kerry who guided me through many challenging times.

Seriously.” Doesn’t matter the age, parenting never ends. “To this day, Kerry doesn’t end a visit, phone call, email or text THE LAST WORD FROM PAGE 9

he often questioned his own abilities, never acting as if he felt that he was better than friends and colleagues, whether they were famous or not.

Suffering from drug addiction, he stopped only to fall off the wagon years later, eventually following a twelve-step program successfully to the end of his life despite his health problems.

Robin’s sensitivity made him compassionate when it came to humanitarian issues, which led him to join Billy Crystal and Whoopi Goldberg to host Comic Relief on HBO, a recurring special that raised money over many years for the Old Town Crier

helmet head of ponytails.

Growing up, I didn’t go to dad with typical female needs….When is it time for me to wear a bra? Can I wear lipstick? My boyfriend dumped me. I dumped my boyfriend, etc…thank goodness I have Mom for the ins and outs of being a girl! Although, I may have spared Dad from some of the minutiae, I was always able to turn to him for the big stuff.

He taught me to be strong and independent. He showed me how to stand up for myself and give everything I do my all. He showed me the value of working hard and the necessity of playing hard. Our time is not spent playing catch or talking stats; instead, we have deep conversations about applying for a promotion or buying a house.

The male point of view is an interesting and essential one.

For example, I remember the time I complained about PMS; Dad shared that he didn’t want to hear me complain, because between myself, my sister, and my mom, he experienced PMS three times a month.

That put it in perspective for

me. My dad is clever, too. Although I don’t like to admit it, there was a time when I was not perfect.

For example, I got in trouble and lost phone privileges. The element of gab is required when you are a teenager, and I was sure I stumped my parents when I told them that the phone in my room was a gift from my grandparents and they couldn’t take it! Ha! Well, Dad countered with the point that the phone jack in my room is his, and he could take it. Needless to say, I didn’t chat on the phone for the next two weeks.

Bottom line up front (a true Dad-ism,) my dad is the reason that I am who I am today. He may not have had sons to raise, but he has two daughters who look to him as their role model for the male species, in general. He may have wished we could have

without telling me that she loves me, and for me, there’s no better feeling in the world.”

There is no script for fatherhood—or parenthood, for that matter. It comes in many different forms and shows up in many different ways. For those of us who don’t have children of the human variety, our love is channeled to our fur babies. Gio—a very handsome and well cared for Boston Terrier—thinks his dad, Bill Moran, is the greatest ever, and I’d have to agree.

As a single dad, Bill does a tremendous job of ensuring all Gio’s needs are met on a

daily basis! “Unlike human children, our pets can’t tell us what’s wrong. When Gio isn’t feeling well, I have to be able to recognize what’s wrong and figure it out,” says Bill. Like any adoptive parent, Bill had to undergo extensive scrutiny before he could take baby Gio home, but it was worth it.

“Doesn’t matter if it’s been a crappy day, he’s happy to see me. Dogs don’t care if it’s rainy, sunny or the current economic status. The biggest reward is in the companionship and the unconditional love.” Agreed!

For the love of dogs!

So many dads, so much love.

A special shout out to the foster dads who selflessly shelter and nurture children (fur baby & human) for an interim period.

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Lin Peacock whom, with his wife Claudia, fostered over 200 children before retiring in 2012. Claudia recently wrote and released a book chronicling their experiences called One Big Family (available on Amazon).

Sometimes we are blessed with them at birth, but often our biological fathers are unable to rise to the challenge so we search for and find positive male influences in

uncles, pastors, neighbors, coaches, teachers, etc.

Sometimes we have them for a lifetime, and sometimes only a fleeting moment. We have been known to challenge them, disrespect them, disobey them, disregard them, and maybe, disappoint them.

They, however, continue to enrich our lives and love us unconditionally for which we are forever grateful.

Let’s hear it for the dads— and the moms who may be playing both roles. You are loved today and in our hearts always.

homeless. He also visited the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan on USO tours, giving respite to and gaining a special connection with the men and women risking their lives overseas.

Even after reading this work, it seems hard to pin down Robin Williams, a comedic genius who kept parts of himself so private that even family and friends who loved him didn’t know them. He was publicly loud and privately quiet, a once-in-a-lifetime talent who never felt good enough. As someone who easily tapped into the veins of humor and tragedy that flow through human experience, he often did so to the detriment of his own

equilibrium.

In the wake of his suicide, the public assumed that he had become so depressed that he saw no way to continue.

Months earlier he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which doctors told him would allow him ten good years with the proper medical treatment. After his death, his autopsy found that he suffered from an uncommon, easy-to-misdiagnose disorder called Lewy body disease.

Very similar to Parkinson’s, this disease built up abnormal levels of proteins in his brain.

It slowly attacked his mental acuity and physical movements, causing a decreased range of motion, depression, insomnia,

and an increased risk of suicide.

Robin started losing his photographic memory, often becoming paranoid or going into temporary fugue states.

His close friend Billy Crystal stated “Think of it this way: the speed at which the comedy came is the speed at which the terrors came. And all that they described that can happen… the hallucinations, the images, the terror—coming at the speed his comedy came at….I can’t imagine living like that.” While depression played some part, it is probably that he was not in his right mind for these other reasons when he decided to end his life.

In taking the reader through

Robin Williams’ life, marriages, relationships with his children, friendships, and career, Itzkoff ’s meticulous biography depicts a firefly on steroids, a bawdy, hilarious performer whose intelligence and warmth attracted a loving public around the world. His generosity of spirit drew people to him, and his self-doubts caused him to keep himself hidden from most. Google “Robin Williams Inside the Actor’s Studio full episode” to watch him at his improvisational best, delighting an audience of training thespians with an electric cavalcade of impressions. Read this book to better understand the wonderful, flawed human being behind the masks.

common knowledge that a father wants a son? Playing ball, burping, and getting dirty are all elements of that fatherson relationship that my dad never experienced. Does he regret it? Is a prerequisite to feeling like a successful father the ability to share a love of bugs?

I think not! Sure, daughters are different, more challenging, even. Playing ball was not my thing, but my dad made it a point to figure out what my thing was. One of my favorite memories is our visit to the Museum of Natural History. I loved rocks, and Dad spent a small fortune on a pre-organized rock collection from the gift shop that I still have. Then there was the time when Mom had a morning meeting and Dad helped me get ready for school. He was not prepared for the drama that was my hair, but he gave it his all. Five barrettes and a can of hairspray later, I walked to the bus stop with a bumpy

bonded over bugs, but instead, we bonded over life.

A father, if he does it right, is a figure for sons and daughters, alike. My dad did it right, and I am proud to say to him – Happy Father’s Day! Publishers Note: Caroline agreed to let us reprint this piece she wrote for our June 2007 issue. Since she wrote this, she has given her father another female to watch out for. Caroline and her husband Jeremy have a beautiful 5 year old daughter, Evelyn and her one year old brother James with number 3 on the way!

June 2018 | 29

THE GASTRONOMES

DINING OUT

AL FRESCO DINING

With nice weather finally here, we thought it a good time to check out some of our favorite outdoor dining venues in and around Old Town Alexandria. The phrase “al fresco” is borrowed from Italian for “in the cool air”. Warm days and cool evenings make for a unique experience when it comes to outdoor dining.

DINING OUT > PAGE 32

Fish Market Restaurant Located at 105 King Street, the Fish Market will be the first of several al fresco dining options on Old Town’s most famous promenade. The Fish Market is a modern eatery serving Chesapeakestyle seafood in a renovated warehouse that is over 200 years old. The fish Market has two patios…one right on King Street and the other on the second floor looking over King Street providing a great view of all the action.

Chadwicks Located at 203 Strand Street, Chadwicks is a true D.C. style restaurant offering the best in casual dining and arguably offers one of the best brunches in town. Chadwicks features a neighborhood bar with English pub décor, happy hour, burgers & American fare. Their patio is directly out front and looks out on the newly built Old Dominion Boat Club.

Bastille

Cedar Knoll Restaurant Located down the George Washington Memorial Parkway you will find Cedar Knoll Restaurant housed in a historic building built in the 1800’s. The restaurant is situated on a small knoll allowing for panoramic views of the Potomac River. Cedar Knoll offers a great selection of wines and seasonal fare including their smoked duck crepes which pair nicely with a rose wine in a beautifully appointed period restaurant. The full- length patio offers beautiful views and excellent dining. Brunch is offered every Sunday.

30 | June 2018

This chic brasserie with patio, bar and all-day café serves modern French fare and international wines. Bastille creations are sparked using seasonal, locally sourced and farm fresh ingredients. Not only does the restaurant offer a patio tucked against the building rounding the front corner, but there is also a dedicated patio out back where many of the locals spend their time. Bastille is located at 606 North Fayette Street.

Union Street Public House

O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant & Bar

In Old Town you will find Union Street Public House located at 121 South Union Street. Offering great food in a stylish setting, Union Street provides al fresco dining on their intimate second floor patio overlooking Union Street. Enjoy seafood and grilled meats at this upscale American eatery which also offers a dark wood tap room on the lower level as well as a newly renovated Whiskey Bar which is open Wednesday through Sunday evenings.

Located at 112 King Street, O’Connell’s is an elegant Irish pub offering TV sports, including rugby, live music and an antique décor. Indeed, when the lads started the build out of O’Connell’s they brought all the antiques they had collected from monasteries, castles, and estates in Ireland.

Like the other restaurants on King street, their al fresco dining occupies part of the city sidewalk offering a ring side seat of all the action. There is also a patio located on the second floor that offers a nice view of King Street.

Old Town Crier

The Wharf

Landini Brothers Restaurant

Located next to Landini Brothers is the iconic Wharf Restaurant. The Wharf also reveals its’ warehouse heritage and offers contemporary seafood dishes in a nautically themed restaurant. With its 1790’s style architecture featuring original wood columns and beams that are charred from Civil War fire, history has indeed been written on the walls of this building. Their al fresco dining is also along the sidewalk.

With a hearty Italian menu, a dimly lit space with exposed brick and stone, this classic has been drawing local notables for years. All the buildings along King Street were once warehouses along the docks of the seaport community and the interior of Landini’s reveals that heritage better than any other. Their al fresco dining is up against the building and sharing the sidewalk with locals and tourists.

Landini’s is located at 115 King Street.

The Warehouse Bar & Grill Located at 214 King Street, the Warehouse offers steak, seafood and other American dishes served in a casual yet elegant historical space that features caricatures of the local gentry on the interior walls of the historic building. Brunch is served on both Saturday and Sunday. In addition to their steaks and seafood, The Warehouse also offers Cajun and low country cuisine. Their patio is also located on the sidewalk.

T.J.Stones Grill House and Tap Room Leaving King Street and heading north you will find T.J. Stones at 608 Montgomery Street in North Old Town. T.J’s is a relatively new restaurant to Old Town with classic fare and a global wine and beer list. House smoked specialties, satisfying comfort foods, and over 300 different wines and beers, this is the spot to spend the afternoon al frescoing the day away.

La Trattoria Located at 305 South Washington Street, La Trattoria offers rustic, yet elegant Italian cuisine. La Trattoria has been recently renovated inside and out. The bar area has been made more user friendly and the dining area has received an uptick. The clear winner however, was the patio. Cleaned up and with new shrubbery as well as new high-top tables, this is the perfect spot to sit for a drink and a cigar and watch the world speed by. The food is darn good too!

Think out of the box in June and try one of these fine restaurants for your al fresco fix. Wave, smile and enjoy now before the summer heat arrives.

Old Town Crier

Fine Seafood, Historic Setting Outdoor Seating • Happy Hour • Private Events 119 King Street • Old Town Alexandria 703.836.2836 • wharfrestaurant.com

June 2018 | 31

BEHIND THE BAR

Kyle McNeely How did you get started in the bartending business?

My fraternity in college would frequent the local bars and it always seemed like it would be something fun to do, and still yet make money.

What is your biggest bartender pet peeve?

Snapping fingers and yelling. Bartenders definitely see everyone and we keep mental notes of who is next. So…I appreciate those who are more patient.

What is the most “clever” line anyone has used on you to get a FREE drink?

There really hasn’t been a most “clever” line, however, there is the most used line - “it’s my birthday, I get a free shot right?” To which I respond “what did you get me for my birthday?”

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

Best: Excuse me, you owe me a drink.....Because when I looked at you, I dropped mine.

Worst: I don’t have a library card, but do you mind if I check you out?

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

A few years ago while working at a club downtown, a guest - who I hadn’t seen all night - came up to the bar and asked for two wine glasses. While I was looking around for the glasses, I asked my fellow bartenders if they had sold a bottle of wine. They all responded no! I went back and asked the guest why she needed the glasses since no bartender had sold any bottles tonight. Without hesitation she pulled out a full bottle of wine from her purse!!! “No worries, I brought my own!”

If you could sit down and have a drink with anyone in the world, past or present, who would it be?

MILA KUNIS! Because before she made it into fame, she was just a regular bartender! I’m sure we have a lot in common and it doesn’t hurt that she’s easy on the eyes!

Kyle is behind Blossom bar from 1 – 9 pm most days of the week. Be sure to treat yourself to a couple hands of video poker while you are at the bar!

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

32 | June 2018

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Kyle conjures up the Nellie Blossom – Grey Goose Vodka, Cherry Blossom Tea, Pomegranate, Lemon, Rose Syrup shaken and topped with Champagne and a Fresh Orchid Garnish

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June 2018 | 33

LET'S EAT

CHARLES OPPMAN

Porcine Perfection

W

ith Fathers’ Day just around the corner many families are wondering what they can do for dad to make his special day a memorable one. No, you can’t just give him a card and be done with it. And cutting the lawn for him isn’t good enough either. Doing a household chore for dad isn’t exactly a gesture of unconditional love. As a devoted family who appreciates dad you’re obligated to come up with something he won’t soon forget. What better way is there to say “Pops we love you.” than to feed that special guy an unforgettable meal? Here are easy BBQ pork and black bean salsa and corn recipes for Fathers’ Day. This is also a good way to kick off the BBQ season.

The Pork Roast First you need to select the correct cut of pork. You could use pork loin, but this is not the best choice. The loin cut is devoid of collagen and only has a scant amount of surface fat. (One of the cruelest rules of nature I know is that animal fat equals flavor.) I would select pork shoulder or butt for this particular cooking method, dry radiant heat. A 5 to 7 pound roast should do nicely. It’s better to cook a roast that is more than necessary because approximately onethird will be lost to shrinkage and there is that pesky bone.

Preheat the coals as you would for any other BBQ procedure.

If you have a gas grill, heat the chamber to 300ºF. 34 | June 2018

The Dry Rub 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon brown sugar 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon chili powder Combine all dry ingredients and hand-rub mixture over pork roast. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to marinate refrigerated for 2 to 4 hours. If there is any dry rub remaining, rub it on before cooking. Place a drip pan under the grill or, if this isn’t possible, place roast in baking pan, with ½ cup of water, on the grill itself. A low constant cooking temperature is critical. The temperature must remain around 300ºF during the entire cooking process. Replenish coals as needed to maintain heat level.

The roast should remain uncovered at all times. Slowroasting allows the interior fat and collagen to literally melt giving the roast that unctuous texture and flavor that makes these particular cuts of pork ideal for roasting. Cook until the interior temperature reaches at least 145ºF. Check the temperature with a meat thermometer (a tipsensitive, instant-read digital thermometer is best). Cooking time will vary, but should be between 2 to 3 hours. Remove from heat and allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

The roast will exude natural juice as the muscle fibers relax.

Save the juice for later use. The rest time is also important for food-safety reasons. According to the USDA, after meat is removed from a heat source,

its temperature remains constant or continues to rise, which helps to destroy harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli.

The Salsa 3 ears of fresh corn (drained canned corn is okay) 2 cans of black beans, strained to remove liquid (to get rid of preservatives and sodium) 1 teaspoon hot sauce 1 can diced tomatoes, including juice ½ cup yellow onion, diced ½ cup cilantro, chopped ½ teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon chili powder ¼ teaspoon chipotle powder (optional) ½ teaspoon salt With a paring knife, cut kernels off each corn cob. To do this, hold the cob vertically and shear off the kernels by slicing downward toward the cutting board. You might want to do this on a dinner plate as the kernels tend to fly everywhere.

The plate will contain them.

Cover raw kernels with water and simmer until tender, approximately 15 minutes.

Strain cooked kernels and place them in a large mixing bowl. Combine all remaining ingredients with cooked kernels and mix thoroughly.

Adjust for seasoning. Salsa does not have to be served warm.

Corn tortilla chips would go well with this dish.

wonderful. Dad gets first dibs on these. Sorry! Warm four tortillas over the grill or gas burner and keep warm with a cloth towel. Serve with sliced onion and avocado, chopped cilantro and tomato, shredded iceberg lettuce and sour cream.

Dad can dress his taco the way he likes or he can even

have it au naturale, without condiments. If dad chooses to go with just meat, he can drizzle some of the delicious warm pork juice on his taco.

Sure it’s messy, but who cares with eats this good? Dad can do whatever he desires, this is the only day of the year the man gets things his way. Dads rule!

What you see . . . . . . and what you get

The Eating Slice pork and display on a platter for service. The slices of the crispy exterior are

Reservations 703.780.3665 reservations@cedarknollva.com 9030 Lucia Lane Alexandria, VA 22308 cedarknollva.com Old Town Crier

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Old Town Crier

June 2018 | 35

AMERICAN

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

CHART HOUSE One Cameron St. 703-684-5080 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 COLUMBIA FIREHOUSE 109 S. St. Asaph St. 703-683-1776 EVENING STAR CAFÉ 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-549-5051 FIN & HOOF 801 N. Saint Asaph St. 703-836-4700 FIVE GUYS 725 King St. 703-549-7991 FLAT TOP BURGER 529 East Howell Ave. 571-970-1006 FOSTERS GRILLE 2004 Eisenhower Ave. 703-725-1342 GADSBYS TAVERN 138 N. Royal St. 703-548-1288 HARD TIMES CAFE 1404 King St. 703-837-0050 HEN QUARTER 1404 King St. 703-684-6969 HUMMINGBIRD 220 South Union Street 703-566-1355 JACKS PLACE 222 North Lee St. 703-684-0372 JACKSON 20 480 King St. 703-842-2790

36 | June 2018

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

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

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

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

ASIAN BISTRO 809 King St. 703-836-1515

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

BRABO

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

FRENCH

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

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

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

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

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

LA TASCA 607 King St. 703-299-9810 MEZEH MEDITERRANEAN 144 National Plaza 301-753-7961

BASTILLE 606 N. Fayette St. 703-519-3776 bastillerestaurant.com

TAVERNA CRETEKOU 818 King St. 703-548-8688 tavernacretekou.com

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

PITA HOUSE 719 King St. 703-684-9194 thepitahouse.com

FONTAINES CAFFE & CREPERIE 119 S. Royal St. 703-535-8151 LA MADELEINE 500 King St. 703-729-2854 TWO NINETEEN RESTAURANT 219 King St. 703-549-1141 YVES BISTRO 235 Swamp Fox Rd. (in Hoffman Ctr.) 703-329-1010

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GRAPEVINE

NANCY BAUER

Three Days in Madison County: Five Wineries and A Taste of Old Country

I

f you’ve spent any time exploring Virginia Wine Country, it’s likely you’ve met Madison County, maybe without even realizing it: her farmlands fall on either side of Route 29, the road between Charlottesville and Northern Virginia and her western flank edges up the slopes of Shenandoah National Park.

The county’s five wineries are as different as the wines they craft, and each tells a unique story, from the quest of a billionaire owner committed to shining a light on the state’s vinicultural stars to the earnest eco-practices of one of Virginia’s tiniest wineries.

This casual, three-day retreat is built around Madison’s wineries, though any traveler with a taste for backroad exploration will find plenty here to like. Wear your sneakers, but toss the stilettos in the back, just in case.

DAY ONE Arrive mid-day and check in at the Madison County Visitor’s Center (110 N. Main Street, Madison) for maps and breaking news, then make a beeline for a made-fromscratch lunch at the Café at Yoder’s Country Market, which is owned by a very 38 | June 2018

industrious family from the local Mennonite community.

Pick up some baked goods – maybe a few hand-held fry pies, shoofly pie, or German chocolate cupcakes - to snack on later or to stash for breakfast tomorrow morning.

Picnic outside at the tables hewn by Amish and Mennonite craftsmen (available for purchase), then take a stroll through the petting zoo, which gives you peeks at everything from alpaca to exotic fowl to potbellied pigs.

Take Rt. 29 North to “downtown” Madison and stroll the shops on Main Street like SheShe, an upscale consignment shop, and Market on Main in the old Post Office building. Under one roof you’ll find a bakery, crafts, consignments and even a spa for facials and more.

Just outside of town, be sure to stop in at E.A. Clore Sons, Inc. The showroom features handcrafted early American furniture that is prized up and down the east coast.

Head back to Rt. 29 North to reach Prince Michel Vineyards and Winery. One of Virginia’s oldest and largest wineries, with a production of around 50,000 cases annually, Prince Michel was founded by a French couple in 1982 and the wines have been made by Brad

Hanson for 19 years. Brad’s longstanding relationships with vineyard owners throughout the state guarantee that Prince Michel has access to some of the best fruit around. In fact, Brad’s wines have been awarded 400+ medals in competition.

Prince Michel sells three lines of wines: Prince Michel, with high-end craft wines like Viognier, Cabernet Franc, and meritage blends; Rapidan River, for more casual drinking; and Carter Mountain, from the esteemed area of the same name in the Monticello AVA. The big oval bar in the tasting room can handle dozens of visitors – fun for peoplewatching – and a huge array of wine merchandise ranging from kitschy to clever helps fill those waiting-for-the-nextpour moments. After your tasting, take a self-guided tour along the catwalk overlooking the wine production area below, where all the magic happens. Or call ahead to arrange for a personal guided tour or private barrel tasting.

There are numerous B&Bs, cabins, and lodges scattered throughout Madison. But for this wine weekend, check in to one of Prince Michel’s luxurious Suites located amid vineyards behind the winery.

Decorated in French Provincial style, each has its own fireplace,

kitchen, and private patio with mountain views.

For dinner, a 15-minute drive brings you to Elim at the Inn at Meander Plantation for a truly special meal. The prix-fixe 4-course menu can contain such delicious offerings as quail, duck, trout, venison, pork or seafood, complemented by a flight of four Virginia wines. Seating is at 7:00, sharp.

DAY TWO Today you’ll discover Madison County’s great outdoors. Take your pick: Fishing or horseback riding will fill your morning. At Douglas Dear’s Rose River Farm, Dear has recreated an experience similar to what he found enticing about Colorado and Montana – trophy trout fly fishing in quiet, pristine surroundings. Tip: For full immersion, book a yurt-style cabin on the property next time you visit.

If you opt for horseback riding, head to the stables at Graves Mountain Lodge, where you can ride for as little as an hour or as long as six.

The gentle horses wind their way through fields, orchards and woodlands. Cross streams enjoy the flora and fauna and notice the quiet.

For a traditional down-home

lunch at an old-fashioned price, Graves Mountain Lodge serves family-style all-you-can-eat country ham, catfish, prime rib, fried chicken or rainbow trout, depending on the day. ($12.95/person; half price for kids under 17.) A full buffet is served for Saturday dinner or lunch and dinner on Sundays.

After dinner, $5 buys you a hay ride and marshmallow roast on Fridays and Saturdays.

After all the physical activity, relax at DuCard Vineyards.

Owner Scott Elliff built one of Virginia’s first solar powered wineries; ask about a vineyard tour to learn about his green initiatives and why DuCard was named Green Winery of the Year.

Settle down in the warm wood-toned tasting room or slate patio with a bottle of gold-medal Viognier, Cabernet Franc, Rose, or the more unusual Triskele. The name comes from the ancient Greek describing a blend of three elements, for instance earth, water and fire. DuCard’s version features petit verdot, cabernet franc, and merlot, fusing into rich flavors of blueberry and cherry with hints of violet and sweet spices.

On selected dates, DuCard also offers a seated tasting, GRAPEVINE > PAGE 40

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Old Town Crier

Failure

s you may know, I tend to enjoy watching movies. At the end of Apollo 13, the mission was described as a successful failure, in that the astronauts did not land on the moon but they did get back home safely. The work that was done to bring those space boys home not only inspired a blockbuster movie, but added to the improvements in safety, process and development of NASA and all their future programs. They were able to make the most of their broken space ship.

I am certainly not a rocket scientist. And my team of farmers have not gone through an aviation engineering school. But we want to keep getting better, learn from our mistakes and grow our farms and clients in a way that we continue to find success. We have had a couple of incidents lately that have not been good but could be used as great learning opportunities. I was alerted to a situation the other day when a car was found in one of our muddy hop yards.

Remember the old adage, “When you find yourself in a hole, stop digging”? This driver crossed over 5 rows of hops and stopped when the tangled irrigation lines and wires had the car tied up like calf at the rodeo. We have work ahead of us in order to get the yard repaired for the growing season. The driver has some work to do with the insurance company in order to get the repairs done and paid for. This incident is a great way for us to learn from others. “Don’t try this at home!” But as we know,

stuff happens and learning the decision making process is important so small stuff doesn’t turn into big stuff.

We use a lot of equipment.

Maintenance is a key part to things not breaking, but sometime equipment breaks. Sometimes workers actions inadvertently break equipment. Reporting these incidents right away is rather important. The equipment may be needed for a job the next day and with it broken, the job won’t get done. The powers that be want to hear from the one who made the mistake rather than finding out about the problem later and having to ask about it. Owning up to the mistake that was made dramatically moves the person down the learning curve.

Humility and responsibility go along with learning. And watching others go through the process helps one to understand accountability and how to survive the learning curve. Much of human instinct is to not admit when a mistake is made, but until the mistake is owned, the lesson is not learned. Keeping that ownership of great things and not so great things keep us moving forward as productive members of society. As a mentor of mine once said “Humility is truth.” Keep that truth close and honest.

So “Mea culpa,” “My bad,” or “Houston, we have a problem,” keep your humility, and teach your team that you make mistakes as well. Each is an opportunity to make things better and dodge some future challenges.

June 2018 | 39

GRAPEVINE FROM PAGE 38

featuring current releases, premium selections and rare library selections no longer available to the general public, with gourmet food platters to accompany the wines. No reservations are required but check their website for dates.

Or round up a group for the winery’s wonderful private Wine & Food Pairing event in the barrel room, led by the winery’s very personable chef; much of the food is grown in her own garden. By advance reservation only.

Tip: DuCard’s dedication to all things green is evidenced by their complimentary TESLA electric car charging station. No charge to charge! Great place to take your half-hour+ break.

New on the scene is Revalation Vineyard, fifteen minutes away heading back toward Route 29. No, not a mis-spelling, the winery is near the town of Reva, and had its grand opening in March of 2018, with their first vintage

harvested in 2014. Owners Julien and Francoise SeillierMoiseiwitsch have planted viognier and chardonnay and have a pinot gris, vidal blanc and cabernet sauvignon in bottle. Francoise started a viticulture training program at Madison County High School where students have the opportunity to sample Virginia grape juice and verjus. The tinroofed log cabin that serves as the winery’s tasting room has superb views of the nearby mountains.

For dinner, try a local institution. Many of Madison’s early settlers came from Germany, and while not an original settler, son Jerome Thalwitz continues in his parents’ footsteps at the Bavarian Chef. Open since 1974, this traditional German restaurant dishes up the best wiener schnitzel (that’s breaded veal in the style of Vienna, nothing to do with hot dogs), and sausages like bratwurst and weisswurst accompanied by the requisite side of sauerkraut,

along with pork, chicken, steak and fish dishes. Servers in traditional deutsche costumes add to the fun.

In case you haven’t had your fill of beer with dinner, a visit to Bald Top Brewery to sample an array of artisan beers is in order. Owners Dave and Julie, along with brewer Mike, source materials locally and grow ingredients on their own farm that are used to craft a full spectrum of delicious beers.

Open until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays, the brewery’s Tap Barn began life in the 1940’s as a hay barn, and now features 6-10 seasonal beers on tap.

DAY THREE Sleep in late after the satisfying meal last night. But make sure you’ve booked an appointment in advance to visit Brightwood Vineyard and Farm. With the last name Vidal, owners Dean and Susan were destined to get into the wine business. Sample their fun fruit wines - dry elderberry, blackberry, dry pear and

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40 | June 2018

peach - and tour the 100-acre organic farm (Brightwood is one of only two organic wineries in Virginia) where jams and jellies, fresh eggs, and vegetables are available to take home.

Travel south on Rt.29 and turn right to reach Early Mountain Vineyards. Steve and Jean Case of AOL fame acquired Sweely vineyards some eight years ago, then spent two years renovating, updating, and refining the property. The impressive tasting room boasts a comfortable, rustic sophistication with natural stone and wood detailing that recalls the grand lodges of old.

Early Mountain 2015 Eluvium achieved one of the highest honors that can be bestowed on a Virginia wine: it was named to the Governor’s Case in the Governor’s Cup Wine Competition 2018, a place awarded to the top twelve wines of the year. The winery earned a total of five gold medals in that competition: for the 2015 Eluvium and the previous vintage, 2014, as well as 2015 Novum, 2016 Chardonnay and 2015 Quaker Run Chardonnay.

When Jean Case made the decision to invest in Virginia wines, she vowed to broadcast the exceptional quality and diversity she believed possible in this emerging region. Early Mountain’s “rising tide floats all boats” commitment is most evident at the tasting bar, where a “Best of Virginia” line-up of pours lets visitors try out carefully vetted wines from excellent vineyards around the state. Make your selection and stay to enjoy live music on the weekend.

Early Mountain also does lunch, including a fresh, seasonal menu of small plates such as citrus-cured salmon,

charred carrot & beet salad, or marinated olives or heartier fare like sandwiches or pasta paired with a wedge or kale salad.

Time permitting, end your Madison County stay by stopping to shop at Plow & Hearth or Southern Grace, on opposite sides of the highway a two-minute drive down Route 29. Merchandise available through Plow & Hearth’s downhomey catalog is displayed at the retail shop at the rear of the property, including quilts, bird feeders, trellises and lawn furniture, garden clogs and much more. The outlet in front is devoted to discontinued and discounted items so you’ll find bargains galore.

Southern Grace is known for its display of outdoor water fountains - the largest in the state – and eclectic assortment of home décor and garden pieces.

Heading further south, check out MAD Arts (Madison Arts Exchange) with something artsy for everyone – over 200 local artisans show a variety of one of a kind items here.

Shopping for whimsical hand carved garden art? Shed Lady Janine, director of the MAD Arts complex, expanded to a second location, M.A. Outdoors and More, to show large size wooden sculptures and yes, garden and tool sheds too.

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

Old Town Crier

NICOLE FLANAGAN

FITNESS

Build Strength and Stability While Increasing Flexibility

I

ncorporating yoga positions into your workout can greatly improve your core strength, stability and flexibility. For those of you who have never taken a yoga class, I recommend giving it a try. A yoga class will challenge you in a way that is incomparable to a strengthtraining workout. Yoga increases flexibility through various positions that act on the joints. It gently stretches the muscles, tendons and ligaments that we usually don’t focus on in a workout.

For someone with limited

flexibility, yoga will help to improve the range of motion that the joints can handle.

Performing yoga moves will also increase blood circulation and help the body move vital fluids throughout. By gently stretching muscles and joints as well as massaging the body’s organs, yoga ensures that blood is reaching all parts of your body. This increase in circulation improves your body’s ability to flush out toxins. With so many benefits of yoga there is no reason not to give some of them a try.

Here are some moves to do on your own, or add to your existing workout that will help improve strength, stability and flexibility.

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Downward Dog Start on all fours with hands directly under shoulders and knees directly under hips Walk hands a few inches forward and spread fingers wide, pressing palms into mat.

Curl toes under and slowly press hips toward ceiling, bringing your body into an inverted V, pressing shoulders away from ears. Feet should be hip-width apart, knees slightly bent.

Hold for three full breaths Make this move more challenging- once you are in the V position bring one leg straight up toward the ceiling keeping your hips level. Hold each leg for three breaths. and legs pressed against arms.

Hold for 5 to 10 breaths Make this move more challenging- starting from beginner position, squeeze your inner thighs to lift heels off floor.

The Crow Starting from the downward dog position walk feet forward until knees touch your arms.

Bend your elbows, lift heels off floor, and rest knees against the outside of your upper arms.

Keep toes on floor, abs engaged

The Lunge

* With fingers spread wide, slowly move body forward until your weight is balanced over your hands. * Draw abs inward (as if pulling belly button to spine) to lift your hips up higher, keeping your face forward.

Hold for 5 to 10 breaths. straight, place hands on your knee. Hold for 10 breaths.

Return to downward dog; switch legs and repeat Make this move more challenging-From beginner pose, press into the ball of your back foot and lift into a standing lunge.

Start in downward dog position. Step your right leg forward to the inside of your right hand.

Drop your left knee to the floor and lift your chest up.

Keeping your right knee in line with your ankle and your back

* Straighten back leg, place heel down on floor, and turn foot out a few inches. Lift arms toward ceiling (Warrior I). Spread your fingers, turn palms in, and open up chest.

Hold for 10 breaths.

As we have said many times before, adding new things to a workout will make it more fun and help to prevent an injury due to overuse. Increasing flexibility will help improve posture by releasing some of the tension caused by stress.

If Yoga is not exactly your style, try taking a look at Body

Flow which incorporates concepts from Yoga and Pilates to create a class that helps to improve flexibility, posture and core strength.

Give some of these moves or a new class and try. You may just start incorporating a yoga or Body Flow class into your regular workout!

* Switch legs; repeat

June 2018 | 41

FROM THE TRAINER RYAN UNVERZAGT

FITBALL PUSHUP

❶

L

ast month we covered the FitBall Crossover Crunch so since you already have the fitball on hand, this month’s exercise is the FitBall Pushup. There are two ways to start.

The first way is to lie over top of the ball face down and walk out on your hands to the desired start position. The second way is to place the hands on the floor with one leg on top of the ball, and then bring the other leg up after establishing balance. Figure 1 shows the start position. I have the ball under the shins and my hands are slightly wider than shoulder width.

The next step is to perform pushups while maintaining balance and control. Key points of the FitBall pushup include: Do not let the hips drop toward the floor because this can cause unwanted stress to the low back.

A wide hand placement will provide more stability. Narrow placement will be harder.

Slow and controlled descent and ascent will be more challenging than a faster pace.

Ball placement will also alter difficulty level. Closer to the hips is easier and closer to the feet is harder, especially when the ball is under the toes (weight on the balls of the feet).

For an advanced move, you can also roll the ball toward the hands by tucking the knees to the chest and lifting the hips upward. Perform this move in between pushups when your arms are extended.

❷

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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KIM PUTENS

FIRST BLUSH

Skincare For Dad

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to wash their hair, shave, and take care of their skin, just like women. So, what do you get a man? Here are some tips on products men like to use and what to look for.

To start, let’s consider the face. Most men need to shave every day, unless they are choosing to grow out their beard. When choosing shaving products, there are a few things to consider. Most shaving products come in 3 different forms – shave oil, shaving cream or shaving gel. Shave oils are great for smoothing out a rough beard to give a very close shave.

Shaving creams are great for all skin types, except those with the oiliest of skin who aren’t keen about putting a cream on their face. The upside to a shave cream is that it’s easy to see where you are shaving. The downside is it can clog the razor. Shave gels offer the closest shave, don’t dry out the skin, and are great for sensitive skin types. Mint or menthol added to shaving products helps to ensure a close shave and help prevent ingrown hairs.

Like women, men need to care for their skin if they want to prolong or limit the signs of aging. Many wonder why men’s products are created separately from women’s products. First, and most obvious, is that men like products without fragrance

and that don’t appear to be fluffy. A main reason for male specific products is that most men have oily skin. This is further complicated by the hair follicles on their face that make for a unique situation.

When choosing skin care products for men, it’s best to look for products formulated specifically for them. There has been an explosion of men’s skincare lines in recent years that make for an abundant of choices.

In caring for the skin, the first place to start is with a good cleanser. It’s best to look for cleansers with salicylic acid to keep pores clean (because men tend to have more active pores that are ripe for bacteria to develop in) or ones that are non-oily, like foaming cleansers. For a moisturizer, try oil-free moisturizers with sunscreen.

Sunscreen is very important because of how damaging the sun is to the skin. And, the oil-free formula is nongreasy and won’t further clog pores. An eye cream is very important too. Even my husband, who looks 10 years younger than his true age, is showing signs of crowfeet.

The eyes are always the first place to show signs of aging – even on men! Keep in mind that not every man fits into the oily skin category.

Products have been created for drier skin types too.

As for the hair – unless your man is “follicly challenged” – he needs something to clean his hair. For many men, the feeling of very clean hair is of utmost importance.

Simple, everyday shampoos are perfect. Since most men don’t ‘color’ their hair like women, gentle, color safe shampoos are not a concern or necessary. If you have a guy that likes to use a lot of styling gels or waxes in their hair, it might be best to look for a clarifying shampoo to help break down the buildup that hair gels and waxes tend to leave behind. Conditioners are not usually a concern for men, but there are the rare occasions that they do need them. Again, conditioners created for men tend to be on the lighter side and simply act as a light conditioner to easily detangle the hair.

I’ve only touched on the bare bones of good products for men. Even if you think your man would NEVER touch a skin care product or consider a different shaving product, don’t underestimate the power of suggestion.

My husband was the least likely candidate for any of these products. But, as soon as I exposed him to some good and simple skin care products and different shaving products, he was hooked.

Now, he has become the epitome of a product junkie.

June 2018 | 43

SPIRITUAL RENAISSANCE PEGGIE ARVIDSON

Dear Grads: Y

ou’ve heard so many lofty speeches and congratulations this time of year, haven’t you? Your teachers and professors and parents and grandparents, siblings, friends and pretty much anyone you meet on the street is happy to give you advice and share their wisdom and wishes for you now that you’ve graduated.

I hope they’re reminding you that things aren’t ending but beginning. Lofty sentiments aside, whether you’re graduating from pre-K (and when exactly did that become a ‘thing’?) or Medical School, you’ve got the next big road ahead of you.

Not to rain on your parade. You’ve worked hard (presumably) and earned your way in more than one way. Maybe you learned to share without hitting the kid next to you over the head with the block he wanted.

Perhaps you’ve learned to make friends with people who are nothing like you and even figured out a way to share the bathroom with that neat freak who screamed every time you left toothpaste in the sink.

Your learning has been more than bookish, I hope, and you’ve spent time figuring out what you want to do next.

Here’s my advice. Don’t take the lofty proclamations about the world being your oyster or everything coming up roses now that you’ve got that certificate too seriously.

According to Bill Burnett and Dave Evans in their bestselling book Designing Your 44 | June 2018

Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life, “…in the United States, only 27 percent of college grads end up in a career related to their majors.”

Not only that the idea that now you’re in for a life of drudgery and boredom until you die is just not true.

So Grad, what do you want out of your life? What are the pillars that you’ve set up for yourself and your vision of success?

You see, getting a job or finding work is one piece of who you are and where you are going on this journey. We humans spend a great deal of time doing, far too many are doing things mindlessly.

Whether it’s falling into a job we don’t love or falling in front of the TV or computer at night at the end of a day – we’re falling, not creating the life we dreamed about.

I’m here to encourage you to start thinking about the next few months and years of your life in terms of setting yourself up for more joy. I’m hoping most of you haven’t yet suffered great losses in your life, but I presume some of you have. Life’s losses do in fact wake us up to the things we’ve deemed important.

However, you don’t need to wait until someone you love dies to find meaning and joy.

You can do it now.

You didn’t get the plush job you had your heart set on?

Instead of whining or finding ways to blame something outside of yourself for the situation, use the time you have as you continue your job

search to look inside and ask what you really want and need in a job. Then ask yourself if that job aligns with your overall goal for joy.

Joy can actually co-exist in your daily life.

For more than a decade I’ve been preaching the idea that joy and happiness are the keys to success. Not the other way around. Since you’re just out of the ivy halls of learning I implore you to start your next phase of life with this in mind. If you follow the joy the money and acclaim will follow. What does that look like for you? This is where you need to take some time and get all up in your own grill.

Ask yourself what truly makes you light up when it comes

to your work. Hint: It’s not a job title. Do you like helping people reach agreements?

Are you lit up when you find the solution to a tricky mechanical problem? Does it light you up to put things in order? What’s your preference when it comes to dealing with people? Are you into persuasion or letting others do their own thing?

All of these questions are just the beginning of finding clarity on what comes next.

Here’s an example, although I was an English and Political Science Major, I discovered through two decades of trial and error that I am great at business. In fact, I love business and all the moving parts. However, I truly light

up when I’m helping others find their sweet spot. I love the part of business that includes hiring, training and empowering others to excel.

I love spotting the diamond in the rough and showing them their strengths. My communications and logic skills – honed in college classrooms – comes in handy, but the joy in my work comes from interacting with people.

Although I spend a great deal of time writing, if I don’t also have the capacity to work in groups, engaging with others to meet goals I end up feeling flat and burnt-out.

Grads, I’m hoping you have the courage to follow your joy. Remember you are simply beginning again.

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

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

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

Private Sessions are available by phone or Skype.

PeggieArvidson.com Peggie@peggiearvidson.com Old Town Crier

STEVE CHACONAS

GO FISH

OH NO, NOT ANOTHER TIE!

D

ude, don’t get Dad another tie! He might wear it…only when you are in town or when you mention it. He really dreads having to tie one on for you! It’s Father’s Day, put a bit of thought into the gift for the guy who was always thinking of you! This year, tell Dad to take it outdoors!

Although Dad may not be a Special Ops warrior, he may work like it on weekends. A belt tough enough for our elite fighting forces can be his in a fashionable array of colors.

Designed by combat-veteran Navy Seals and made in the USA, this belt is functional, supporting his pants, tools or his body weight. The T3 Loop Riggers Belt is comfortable and rugged and is up to tough federal, state and city safety requirements. Guaranteed for a lifetime. When outdoors activities get rough, can be used as a tourniquet. T3Gear.com The last thing Dad wants while outdoors is to be bugged by bugs. Sprays and ointments aren’t good for him or the fish.

Since 1980, Simms Fishing Products sought to develop better waders and accessories.

Today the company has expanded, specializing in bass fishing clothing lines, including waterproofing gear for serious anglers to ignore the elements. Now Simms is introducing men’s BugStopper® Pants with Insect Shield® that provides long-lasting insect repellency throughout the lifetime of the product. Of

course it has features you’d expect from Simms like DriRelease® that creates a sweat-wicking, water-resistant, and UPF 50 sun blocking fabric. Take these pants on the street with side and thigh pockets, and even a cell phone pocket. But it’s the comfort Dad will appreciate through the year including expandable waist and pre-shaped knees enabling the pants to move with him.

Simmsfishing.com Legendary sandal-maker Teva takes Dad a step back to his foot roots. The iconic Hurricane XLT has been freshened up for comfort with a soft heel-strap padding and a new, modern sole featuring even better traction than before, taking what the terrain can dish out. An EVA-foam midsole provides lightweight cushioning and a nylon shank stabilizes and supports Dad’s arches on uneven terrain.

Water-ready, durable, and quick drying polyester/nylon/

recycled PET webbing stands up to abuse and enables a perfect fit, secured with hook and loop Universal Strapping System. Custom fit adjustments are quick and easy on and off with injection-molded strap ends. Perfect for water activities: fishing, canoeing, amphibious hiking. teva.com Keep Dad’s feet dry even when submerged with Hanz Extremity Wear calf length and over-the-calf height (15”) Submerge Waterproof Sock. Seamless waterproof technology creates a seal for deep water wading. The wicking and breathable liner keeps feet comfortable and dry.

Worn with shoes, boots, waders and sandals for any outdoor activity. hanzusa.com AFTCO’s original fishing short; re-invented. Since 1958, AFTCO has been the leader in fishing clothing, tackle, and high performance precision-built fishing gear.

Stealth fishing shorts are a

fisherman’s dream. Stealth is the new standard in men’s Performance fishing shorts, combining high-tech fabrics with a modern short style with a longer outseam than traditional men’s fishing shorts.

Stealth Fisherman Shorts are constructed from a nylon fabric coupled with AFGUARD stain resistance, AFLEX 2-way stretch and AFBLOCK sun protection. AFTCO’s best-seller is an easy pick for the fishing Dad. Not short on pockets either, 6 including a plier pocket. Contrast stitching gives a not too fishy stylish look for sporting Dads. aftco.com In Hawaii, barrier reefs protect the mainland. Full wrap frame Maui Jim Barrier Reef sunglasses provide ultimate protection against the sun’s powerful rays and glare for Dad’s eyes and the delicate skin around them. SuperThin Glass lenses enable crisp optics with lightweight comfort.

Maui Jims respond to the sun while allowing nature to shine through. PolarizedPlus2 lenses

not only protect eyes from harmful rays, they also enhance the view, making colors more vivid and contrast crisper. Help Dad see what he’s been missing.

Less eye fatigue and detailed views of what’s underwater will make him a better angler too!

Show Dad you have class with a gift certificate so he can choose his own Maui Jims. mauijim. com Another great gift idea is a gift certificate for a bass fishing trip on the Potomac River.

No phones, emails, texts or meetings, Dad can bring his buddy or favorite offspring.

But, remember, if you give it, Dad will use it, wear it or eat it…make a good choice so he won’t think of you when he’s in line returning it!

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

Potomac River Bassing in June Topwater time! Walkers and poppers are perfect for clear and calm water with overcast skies! Walk the dog, but don’t stop when fish strike! They’ll come back. For poppers, pop and stop, varying retrieves until a cadence produces. Prop baits are a great post spawn tease! Also try Mann’s Waker over cover.

Use follow-up Mann’s 5-inch HardNose Freefall weightless stickworms on 10-pound test GAMMA Edge Fluorocarbon line for missed bites!

A steady dose of shallow diving Mann’s Baby 1-Minus crankbaits, in craw and baitfish patterns, work over wood and grass. Mann’s Reel N’ Shad is deadly this time of year. For line, 12-14 pound test Edge on a KVD Quantum cranking rod.

Use faster Quantum Vapor reels.

Pitch Mizmo tubes on 3/0 Mustad Tube hooks with 14-pound Edge to docks and wood at higher tides, then grass during every tidal phase. Use garlic Jack’s Juice Bait Spray scent. Also try swimming jigs like Mann’s Stone Jigs with a HardNose Reel ‘N’ Shad around cover. Beef up tackle for this.

Mann’s Classic ¼ ounce spinnerbaits with white skirts are effective around shallow cover. Try these and chatterbaits close to grass, wood and rock, bumping cover or snapping free from grass. With high water, cloudy skies and some chop with clear water, try a 3/8-ounce double willow spinnerbait with a firetiger skirt.

Old Town Crier

June 2018 | 45

OPEN SPACE

Public Service Announcement (PSA) No. 1002-32-A7: To those of you who may be confused, granting someone a ‘like’— or, even better, a ‘heart’— does not constitute a real, honest-to-goodness social interaction. If you are friends (or even family), you must, at a minimum, pick up your smartphone and text said person to engage. See wikipedia ‘social engagement.’

S

ee—I’m so hip that I’m not even asking you to call me because I know that is soooo 1984. I’d totally ignore the call waiting, and then you’d be forced to call back 39 times until I finally switched over to your incoming call. That’s okay because I’m an introvert, and introverts would rather do your taxes than talk to you on the phone. (I have 13,874 new voicemails dating back to 1998 to prove it). I’m not a huge fan of hours of phone chatter, but you know what I am a fan of? Coffee! I’d be delighted to meet you for a coffee. My “phonevoidance” is something I am trying to overcome as I do enjoy hearing the sweet sound of your voice.

It’s just that I’m waiting for the ‘perfect’ moment to talk. For instance when I’m not rushed, in a good mood, not stressed about whom our president isn’t secretly paying, have extra time on my hands, all my laundry is folded, etc. so I can give you my 46 | June 2018

LORI WELCH BROWN

undivided (squirrel!) attention.

Probably explains why you haven’t heard from me in a few years. Sorry. I am trying to get past that long enough to pick up the phone and call because I want to nurture more meaningful relationships.

There is no excuse. You know when we find time to see each other? When someone dies.

What is wrong with us?! I have immediate family who live within 30 miles that I see less frequently than lunar eclipses. It’s not like I have to load up the covered wagon with supplies for a 17 day trek across the barren frontier to get to them risking life, limb and liberty. Worse—I have to get on 95 and battle Friday traffic.

Egads!

While I curse social media, I also am forever bequeathed to Zuckerberg (wasn’t he cute on that booster chair during his testimony?) because Facebook is how I inevitably learn about the big moments of your life— engagements, births, home purchases, etc. Boy, do I miss when you used to call me and tell me in person. Oh—wait.

You likely left me a voicemail which I never listened to and then I saw your post. Hmm. I take full responsibility for my part in our being destined to a life of “likes”.

Certainly there is a time and place for social media—like when you’re trying to avoid communicating with the person lying next to you or when you’re sitting across

from someone you haven’t seen in a really long time and you’re trying to post a picture to update your peeps. Or—you are sitting smack dab in front of a really beautifully plated gourmet meal! Snap. Post. Or, when you’re at a ball game or birthday party or lying on a beach. By all means, Instagram away!

It’s comical to think that we thought the worldwide web would eradicate the need for books and magazines. Not. It wasn’t until social media turned us into addicts that we pushed Jane Austen aside for the snarky, alcohol-fueled exchange between our former college roommate and her estranged daughter-in-law. I

mean. For real. Shonda Rhimes can’t come up with that kind of drama. And, I’m sorry Nigella, but I no longer require recipe books because my husband, XXL, tags me in everything that crosses his feed that has the word ‘cheese.’

I barely need doctors thanks to all your posts regarding the benefits of apple cider vinegar and coconut oil. I can wax the furniture, condition my hair and reduce inflammation while uploading pix of my folded laundry! And—special shout out to my former co-worker who ever so kindly shared that picture of his toenail fungus which led me to the decision

to promptly cut off all ten of mine. No more pedicures! #savingmoolah #problemsolved So, dear friends, instead of frantically trying to connect with the masses, let’s slow down and connect with those right in front of our faces—or better yet, those who are just a phone call away. Show someone the real love vs. the social media kind. Call a friend (or family member!) and treat them to coffee. Feels like a small price to pay for a day sans pictures of feet fungus. Now, that’s love.

Old Town Crier

NATIONAL HARBOR

LANI GERING

The Night

W

hen we were coming up with the call outs for the cover for this issue I thought I would be writing about how the Harbor is “heating up” for the summer, however, after I saw the new addition of the “overhead” lighting on Fleet Street, I changed my mind! Night time here in National Harbor is special, especially when the weather is beautiful, and is my favorite time to roam around and take in the sites.

The Capital Wheel and the Carousel are no doubt the largest “light” attractions here. I love the fact that Derek and his team at Icon Attractions program the wheel so that it lights up in colors that support local happenings. They are burgundy and gold when the Redskins play, purple and black when the Ravens play, have a curly W when the Nationals are on top of their game and right now it is “Rockin’ the Red” for the Capitals! I swear those red lights have been a good luck charm for our fickle hockey team.

The American flag that adorns the first

Lights

block of American Way is impressive in both daylight and night. The lights that adorn the trees in the first block of American Way, however, are in need of some tender loving care. When I first moved over here from the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria, the multicolored box shaped lights were spectacular.

They are now in need of replacement so hopefully that will take place soon.

Peterson Companies is pretty particular about this space on the Maryland side of the Potomac so I am positive the situation will be rectified soon.

Now for the piece de resistance – the new “overhead” lights in the one hundred block of Fleet Street! While walking to Irish Whisper one evening a few weeks ago I noticed a crew of guys in trucks with cranes hanging what appeared to be netting between the buildings on both sides of the street. I knew that there was a big block party sponsored by some huge corporation coming up – they reserve the whole first block and the restaurants that

Are On! occupy it – that takes place annually so I just thought it was some more “over the top” decorating taking place. These people have big money!! I was, however, pleasantly surprised to find out that it was a netting of lights that are a permanent fixture on the block.

I can’t explain how good those dumb lights make me feel!

They give the street a festive feel – sort of like parts of the downtown Vegas strip only on a much smaller scale.

Lots of stuff going on here in the Harbor now that summer is creeping up on us. After these last couple of weeks, I am hoping the dumb rain stays on hold so you can enjoy the free fitness classes on the plaza, the movies and Sunset Concert series as well as all of the antics that take place on Friday nights.

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

Mondays – Cardio Hit Tuesdays – Kickboxing Wednesdays – Zumba Saturdays – Yoga Farmers Market Returns American Way Saturdays and Sundays 10am-5pm Miller Farms Farmer’s Market returns to National Harbor with their wide array of fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, beautiful flowers and plants, and much more. Located on American Way by the fountain. Miller Farms is a 267-acre farm in Clinton, MD that has been family owned and operated since 1840.

Old Town Crier

ONGOING THROUGH SEPTEMBER

Plaza screen for a free evening of fun!

Salute the Sunset Concert Series Plaza Stage – 7 pm

Summer Fridays Are Back!

On the Plaza 4 pm- 8 pm

Date Night Movies – 7 pm 7th - Going in Style 14th - Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tells 21st - Forrest Gump 28th - Dream Girls

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.

Start your weekend right with Summer Fridays at National Harbor!

Play Corn hole, Connect Four, Giant Jenga, hula hoop, hopscotch, and more with family and friends. Enjoy performances by Bobby McKey’s, giveaways, and listen to the DJ spin your favorite summer jams. And of course, joining us means you get front row seats to the best sunset view in the DMV. Get your cameras ready and your flip flops on!

MOVIES ON THE POTOMAC On the Big Screen At the Plaza Nothing says summer like an evening under the stars—and there’s no better way to enjoy the season than movie nights at National Harbor.

Pack your chairs, grab food to go from one of our delicious dining establishments, and meet us at the

Family Night Movies – 6 pm 3rd - Matilda 10th - Bolt* 17th - Zookeeper 24th - Charlotte’s Web (2006)

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

2nd – Air Force Singing Sergeants 9th – Air Force Airmen Of Note 16th – Navy Commodores Jazz Ensemble

* National Harbor 10 Year Anniversary Commemorative Giveaway for the first 100 people!

23rd – Air Force Max Impact

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

15TH & 16TH

30th – Navy Band Sea Chanters Vocal Ensemble BEER, BOURBON & BBQ FESTIVAL On the Plateau Friday - 6:00 pm – 10 pm Saturday – 12 Noon- 6 pm THIS IS THE ORIGINAL, PREMIERE,

THE ONE THAT STARTED IT ALL! No other event in the country beats the best. Join us at the festival for a great day of beer sippin’, bourbon tastin’, music listenin’, cigar smokin’, and barbecue eatin’. Ticket info: beerandbourbon.com/national-harbor

21ST – JULY 22ND UniverSoul Circus Under the Big Top Celebrating 25 years of fun in global proportions. Extra 25th Anniversary edition of everybody’s favorite interactive circus. Ticketmaster.com/ UniverSoul/Circus

23RD Inaurgural MD Vintage Wine & Jazz Festival by AIDEN Waterfont Plaza 11 am – 8 pm Join us in the first ever MD Vintage Wine & Jazz Fest. Music, Wine, Artisens, vendors and delicious food.

Tickets range in price from $30 to $175. Aiden-investments.simpletix. com

June 2018 | 47

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48 | June 2018

Book your Fireworks & Fun Package Today!

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Old Town Crier

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