Old Town Crier Full Issue - July 2023

PUBLISHER’S NOTES

We welcome all to the second half of 2023 and our July issue. After 35 years and 6 months of producing the Old Town Crier, this will be our 427th issue. Sometimes I wonder how we continue to do it. Clearly it is our wonderful writers who come up with a new story every month and also to the relentless drive and character of Lani Gering who pulls it all together each month. We are also blessed to have a good relationship with photographers Chester Simpson, Rick Latoff, David Sites and Lee Moody who share their beautiful art form with us and who have graced our covers over the years. This month the USA celebrates its 247th birthday. In holding with this celebratory mindset of Americana, we roll back time with this issue...Baseball, Hotdogs, Apple Pie and Chevrolet! I remember going with my dad and brother to see the Washington Senators play baseball at Griffith Stadium in Washington, D.C. Those were the days when the men wore shirts and ties and Fedoras. The dress is much different these days where team paraphernalia is the norm and a huge revenue source for franchises. This month we brought a little bit of the old magic back by attending a Bowie Baysox game (Road Trip article) and biting into a ball park hot dog. Being a local, I have a soft spot in my heart for the Orioles and it was good to see some of the talent they have coming up the ranks in the Baysox. I have to admit that I am a bigger fan of the Nationals these days and enjoy games at Nats Park but being at a small venue like Prince George’s Stadium in Bowie watching a game up close and personal without breaking the bank was refreshing. In keeping with the theme, we celebrate the Hot Dog in our Dining Out column. I never knew its origins were so historical until I read this. Julie Reardon mentions some great places to fi nd Apple Pie in her To the Blue Ridge column. We will also have our friend Barbara Sharp’s recipe for it on our site/blog this month! The Chevrolet is on the cover! Who knew that the slogan for Chevy that debuted in 1974 would become so iconic. I am pictured here with Jack Sharp - the owner of our cover girl “Miss Red”. She is a real beauty in person. While the nation is only 247 years old, Alexandria celebrates its 274th birthday this year. To help celebrate, come out to Oronoco Bay Park on July 8th for the festivities. Starting at 6 pm, there will be live music, local vendors and speeches followed with FREE cupcakes. The Grand Finale Fireworks accompanied with music by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra takes place at 9:30 pm. If the weather isn’t cooperating, rain date is the 9th. This is a great way to spend an evening with family and friends.

The 4th is a good time to take a few minutes to think about what our forefathers went through to gain our independence. Captain John Paul Jones comes to mind. His tall ship Providence is now in her permanent homeport at the Senator John Warner Maritime Heritage Center on Waterfront Park at the foot of King Street. You can read more about the Center and what it has to offer in the Business Profile.

Wishing you all a very Happy 4th and I hope you fi nd the time to experience a bit of “Baseball, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie and Chevrolet” yourselves.

Smokin’ and Jokin’ with my pal Jack Sharp in front of his Blue Ridge Grocery in Huntly, VA

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

Special Feature.......................................17

Special Food Feature...............................31

To the Blue Ridge....................................22

Urban Garden.........................................38

Where is the Mural?.................................6

ON THE ROAD WITH OTC

Everybody is a comedian/comedienne these days! Ric Ruller and his daughter Chelsea “cutting up” in her kitchen and checking out the “Let’s Eat!” column in the June OTC.

Ric and his wife, Annie, took a trip to San Diego from Denver to catch a Padres game with their daughter for Father’s Day with the idea in mind to take a photo at the game and they forgot to take the issue with them so…..

If you would like to see your photo in this space, grab a copy of the OTC and take it with you on your next adventure. Take a pic with your communication device and email it to office@ oldtowncrier.com with “On the Road” in the subject line. Be sure to include information for the caption and your mailing address if you would like a hard copy sent directly to your home.

Where Is This Mural?

Many thanks to all of you who submitted guesses last month. There were some pretty “impressive/creative” ones but only one person wins the prize! Congratulations to Clayton Bourassa on finding Marilyn and her bottle of wine on the wall at T.J. Stones on Montgomery Street in North Old Town.

Be the first person to respond with the correct location and receive a $50 gift certificate to a local dining establishment of our choice. In order to participate, you will have to Like and Follow us:

Facebook @oldtowncrier

Instagram @otcregionalmag

Send a PM with your guess and we will contact the winner each month via PM to arrange for prize delivery.

Mural Photo by Lee Moody.

The month of July has historically been the time of year we celebrate all things Americana! What better way to pay tribute to our great nation than featuring “Baseball, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie and….Chevrolet!” in this issue. On the cover is Old Town Crier favorite, Jack Sharp, and his beloved truck “Miss Red” – a 1950 3100 Chevrolet beauty! Jack and his wife Barbara – pictured here in her signature patriotic overalls – own and operate the very eclectic Blue Ridge Grocery Store located on Zachary Taylor highway between Front Royal and Flint Hill, VA. Photos by Bob Tagert.

USA & Alexandria Birthday Celebration

July 8th

6 to 9:45 p.m.

(Rain date: July 9, 2023)

Admission: Free Oronoco Bay Park 100 Madison Street

The City of Alexandria celebrates its 274th birthday and the USA’s 247th birthday on Saturday, July 8, with a performance by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra and a grand nale reworks display at 9:30 p.m. Enjoy the big birthday experience including cupcakes, local vendors and live music. For more information, please visit alexandriava.gov. Photo credit: Victor Wolansky.

10th Annual Old Town Pub Crawl

15th

1:30 to 6 p.m.

Admission: Free

Various locations throughout Old Town 703-797-2739

portcitybrewing.com

The Port City Brewing Company team will be at local restaurants and bars near the Alexandria waterfront, stamping pub crawl passes (available at participating locations) and handing out swag from 1:30 to 6 p.m. If you complete your Pub Crawl Pass, you will get a limited-edition pint glass. Participating restaurants include Blackwall Hitch, Bugsy's Pizza Restaurant & Sports Bar, Chadwicks, Daniel O'Connell's, The Fish Market, Union Street Public House, Virtue Feed and Grain and Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge.

Art Night in Old Town 20th

5 to 7:30 p.m.

Admission: Free

Various locations throughout Old Town Alexandria oldtownbusiness.org

LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS

OLD TOWN FARMERS MARKET

Market Square

301 King Street

Saturdays, 7 am – 12 Noon

Year Round

OLD TOWN NORTH FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Montgomery Park

901 North Royal Street

Thursdays, 3 pm – 7 pm

Year Round

On the third Thursday of each month, discover an art gallery and/ or cultural arts orga nization offering an evening of ne art and studio crafts. Come to Old Town for an evening of art and stay for dinner at a nearby restaurants More information on participating art galleries and restaurants can be found at oldtownbusiness.org.

Beats, Bites and Brews in Carlyle Square 29th

11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission: Free

John Carlyle Square

300 John Carlyle Street thecarlylecommunity.com

Head to John Carlyle Square for a full day of outdoor entertainment, featuring food, music, cold beverages, shopping and more. Local bands, food vendors, wineries and breweries, as well as other local small businesses will be on site. Tasting will be provided by the wineries and breweries, and you can purchase the tickets onsite from them directly. Admission is free, and this event is pet friendly and will occur rain or shine.

Not to be missed on the Waterfront:

Two Boxes of Oranges and Admonia Jackson

Admission: Free Waterfront Park

1A Prince Street visitalexandriava.com/public-art

Photo Credit: Lee Moody

Two Boxes of Oranges and Admonia Jackson is the fth temporary public art installation on Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront, part of the City of Alexandria’s Site See: New Views in Old Town series. Created by Jamaican-born, New York-based award-winning artist Nina Cooke John of Studio Cooke John, the installation is inspired by the ships uncovered on Alexandria’s waterfront in 2015 and 2018 and the many layers of history that are not readily seen. The installation forms an abstracted ship’s hull with steel vertical elements that rise and bend, referencing the curve of the hull’s frame. Visitors can stand within the space

The Old Town Market is thought to be the one of nation’s oldest continuing markets operating since 1753. It is said that George Washington sent his products from Mount Vernon to be sold here. Today the plaza is a mecca for farmers and artists to sell their wares. The Market is a primary source for meats, dairy, sh, fruits, vegetables and owers for all those who visit.

DEL RAY FARMERS MARKET

Corner of Mt. Vernon and Oxford Avenues

Saturdays, 8 am to Noon

Year Round

This market is strictly a producer grown market.  Lots of fresh vegetables, fruits, sh and salmon, fresh mushrooms, baked goods, hard cider.  Farmers are within a 150 mile radius of Alexandria.  A non-pro t is featured each weekend.

Alexandria’s favorite dog friendly market! The Old Town North Thursday Market is a growers only market with a focus on produce from small family farms and local artisans. Products sold at the market include fresh fruits and veggies from Virginia’s Northern Neck, Micro Greens from an urban farm, Empanadas, Fresh baked pastries with a European air and much more.

FOUR MILE RUN FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

4109 Mount Vernon Avenue

Sundays, 9 am – 1 pm

Year Round

This market offers fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels and strives to re ect the diversity of Alexandria’s community. Local artisans display their arts and crafts as well.

and imagine a time in Alexandria’s history when the ships carried not only cargo like tobacco, molasses, rum and limes, but also enslaved people who were traded as part of the transatlantic and domestic slave trades. The outer blue of the installation is contrasted with an orange inner surface depicting text pulled from ships’ manifests listing items like herring, coconuts and gin, alongside names and descriptions of enslaved people, such as “Jane Tailor, female, 5’ 2”.” Also listed are “two boxes of oranges” and “Admonia Jackson.”

For more summer events and activities in Alexandria, see the listings below and head to VisitAlexandria.com/Summer.

Connect with us!

Web: VisitAlexandriaVA.com

Blog: Blog.VisitAlexandriaVA.com

Facebook: Facebook.com/VisitAlexandriaVA

Twitter: Twitter.com/AlexandriaVA

Instagram: Instagram.com/VisitAlexVA

Tall Ship Providence is Home

It is good to have a tall ship back in our midst after so many years. She is following in some big foot steps as the Schooner Alexandria – a 125 foot cargo carrying three masted Baltic Trader built in Sweden in 1929 - graced our waterfront for several years in the 1980’s and 90’s. She was acquired by the Alexandria Seaport Foundation in 1984 and served as a museum and ambassador for the city until they were unable to garner enough support for her repairs. The Alexandria was sold to a lawyer from Iowa in 1996. She met an unfortunate demise in December of that year when she foundered and sank off of Cape Hatteras in North Carolina.

Tall Ship Providence is fi nally in her home port for good at the newly opened Senator John Warner Maritime Heritage Center at the foot of Waterfront Park in Old Town Alexandria after spending the bulk of her time in the last year at port at the Wharf in DC. The official opening of the center took place on June 22nd. It was a star studded affair with several members of the late Senators family, friends and dignitaries in attendance.

In August of 2017, the Tall Ship Providence Foundation (TSPF) purchased the ship with the mission to create a floating museum to educate visitors on the role Providence and the Continental Navy played in the American Revolution.

Providence was the fi rst ship authorized by the Continental Congress for the Continental Navy, the fi rst ship to bring Marines to foreign soil and the fi rst American command of legendary Captain John Paul Jones. In addition, the Providence appeared in two of the Pirates of the Caribbean fi lms.

Waterside construction and preparation kicked off in April of this year and included land side work ranging from installing utilities, demolition of existing pilings, and pier installation. It was quite an undertaking but came together timely as it opened for tours last month.

There is a lot going on the dock and in this rather compact Center - an Education Center, a Naval History Theater, an Observation Deck, Ticket Office and Gift Shop all share the space.

Tours start at 10:00 a.m. and run both on the hour and on the half hour, with the last tour taking place at 4:00 p.m. Not only do you get to meet Captain John Pau.l Jones, guests are asked to participate with the reenactors in various capacities ranging from tending the cannon to being a deck hand.

In addition to dockside tours, Tall Ship Providence offers sunset sails, specialty sails and private charters. The Maritime Heritage Center will also be available as a venue rental.

LANI GERING

Photo by Lee Moody

What is behavioral nance … and why should you care?

Investors may like to think they’re completely rational in their decisionmaking, but that’s highly unlikely. We don’t stop being human beings when it comes to investing, so psychology and emotions are apt to play roles — sometimes large ones — in the choices we make.

Behavioral finance studies investors’ real-life behavior and common biases. It considers the roles emotions and psychology play in making financial decisions and aims to identify factors that cause investors to sometimes act irrationally.

A key concept in behavioral finance is “prospect theory,” which describes how investors make decisions involving risk and gain. Studies have shown people frequently consider losses far more undesirable than they find comparable gains desireable. For example, take the following scenarios:

If you ever wonder why markets sometimes act in ways that defy logic, behavioral finance helps explain it.

For example, bubbles can form when prices rise based on investors’ emotional reactions rather than the fundamentals. Once their sentiment eventually changes, a precipitous sell-off can follow.

Take what’s come to be known as the dot-com bubble of the late 1990s. Soon after the internet’s introduction, investors realized its potential to transform our everyday lives (which it clearly has). What they were over-optimistic about were internet-based companies’ abilities to quickly create profitable businesses.

In response to investors’ enthusiasm, the NASDAQ Index, where many of these companies’ stocks were listed, rose 189% during the two years leading up to its peak in March 2000. Perhaps more significantly, the price/earnings (P/E) ratio — a measure commonly used to determine how expensive stocks are (the higher the ratio, the more expensive stocks are considered to be) — was 175. By comparison, it was only approximately 27 at the end of 2022.

That suggests many investors were caught up in the furor over the New Economy and ignored the fundamentals. When investors realized it would be a long time before many of these companies became profitable, the bubble burst and stock prices plummeted.

The lesson for investors is the importance of being diversified and investing primarily based on fundamentals — not on emotion and the fear of missing out on the next “big thing.” Of course, diversification strategies do not guarantee investment returns or eliminate the risk of loss.

Given the first scenario, most people will avoid the risk and take option one (the sure $3,000 gain). On the other hand, when presented the second scenario, most favor option two (the 75% chance of losing $4,000) because it offers the possibility of avoiding the pain of a loss.

Keep in mind — and this is important — all four choices are mathematically equivalent. This means individuals’ responses were based primarily on their emotional reactions to fear of loss vs. enjoyment of gain, not rational decision-making.

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 President- Investments in Alexandria, VA at 800-247-8602.

Wells Fargo Investment Institute, Inc. is a registered investment adviser and wholly owned subsidiary of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., a bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2023 Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC.

Government is a Game at Leap Frog" a

- John Adams

On February 9, 1775, the British Parliament “declared the colony of Massachusetts to be in rebellion.”

The colony’s, colonial America’s Continental Army was created soon after the April 19th Battle of Lexington and Concord. The same month John Adams, the “Atlas of Independence,” nominated George Washington to serve as the Army’s Commander-in-Chief.

Delegate John Adams, a member of the colonies First and Second Continental Congresses [1774-1781], voted in favor of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. A member of the drafting committee, he was one of 56 signatories.

“Yesterday, the greatest question was decided, which ever was debated in America, and a greater, perhaps, never was nor will be decided among men,” Adams wrote wife Abigail on July 3, 1776. “A resolution was passed without one dissenting colony, ‘that these [13] United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, and as such they have, and of right ought to have, full power to make war [and] conclude peace.’”

“The Second Day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha in the History of America,” Adams continued. “I am apt to believe that it

will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations as a great anniversary Festival.”

“I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration,” Adams concluded. “Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means.”

Although President John Adams [MA-F, 17971801] was the fi rst U.S. President to occupy the White House [November 1800], Thomas Jefferson [VA-DR, 1801-1809] was the fi rst President to celebrate July 4th while living in the White House. The White House Festival included diplomats, civil and military officers; citizens, Cherokee chiefs and the Marine Band.

In 1813 James Madison was President [VA-DR, 1809-1817] and the War of 1812 was ongoing. Wrote former President Adams to Jefferson: “The same political parties which now agitate the U.S. have existed through all time. And this is precisely the complaint in the preface to the fi rst volume of my defence [A Defence of the Constitutions of Government of the United States of America, 1787].”

“While all other Sciences have advanced,” Adams continued, “that of Government is at

a Stand; little better understood; little better practiced now than 3 or 4 thousand years ago. What is the Reason?”

“I say Parties and Factions will not Suffer, or permit Improvements to be made,” Adams declared. “As Soon as one man hints at an improvement his Rival opposes it. No sooner has one Party discovered or invented an Amelioration of the condition of Man or the Order of Society, than the opposite Party belies it, misconstrues it, misrepresents it, ridicules it, insults it, and persecutes it.”

“Records are destroyed,” Adams explained. “Histories are annihilated or interpolated or prohibited Sometimes by Popes, Sometimes by Emperors, Sometimes by Aristocratical and Sometimes by democratical Assemblies and Sometimes by Mobs.

Was it not a violent mob—of seditious Oath Keepers like Stewart Rhodes and Kelly Meggs; Proud Boys; the Texas Freedom Force and other white extremists who fomented the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. capitol building?

“If you ask my Opinion who has created all this havoc, I will answer you candidly,” Adams concluded. “Ecclesiastical and Imperial Despotism has done it to conceal their Frauds.”

“Truth must be more respected than it ever has been before any great Improvement can be expected in the Condition of Mankind,” Adams replied to Jefferson in 1816. Truth, as defi ned by the American Heritage Dictionary: 1. Conformity to fact or actuality. 2. A statement proven to be true.

“Power always thinks it has a great Soul, and Vast Views, beyond the Comprehension of the Weak,” Adams continued, “and that it is doing God’s Service, when it is violating all his laws… Power must never be trusted without a Check.”

“I Still pray that a Century of civil wars may not desolate Europe, and America, too,—South and North,” Adams foreshadowed. The Massachusetts State Constitution, which John Adams drafted in 1779 outlawed slavery in 1780.

Administration, running down their Characters and opposing all their Measures right or wrong, We ought to Support every Administration as far as We can in Justice,” Adams explained.

Justice, as defi ned by the American Heritage Dictionary: 1. The principle of moral righteousness. 2. Fair treatment and due reward in accordance with honor, standards, or law.

“For my Part I always thought and am Still determined to Support every Administration whenever I think them in the right,” Adams continued. “Our obligations to our Country never cease but with our Lives.”

“Instead of being Frenchmen or Englishmen; Federalists or Republicans, We ought to be Americans and exert every Nerve to convince and persuade our Country to conquer its Sordid

America requires more than words,” Biden continued. “It requires…Unity.

“Disagreement must not lead to disunion,” Biden explained. “Politics need not be a raging fi re destroying everything in its path.” According to Pew Research—as of 2014, 92% of Republicans are to the right of the median Democrat, and 94% of Democrats are to the left of the median Republican.”

“There is truth and there are lies,” Biden concluded. “And each of us has a responsibility— to defend the truth and to defeat the lies…We must end this uncivil war that pits red against blue....”

“[I]f we mean to support the Liberty and Independence which it has cost us so much blood

celebrating your July 4th Festival, think of the Founding Fathers and their understanding of Unity.

“A house divided against itself cannot stand,” Republican Abraham Lincoln reminded the Illinois electorate in 1858.

“In the midst of a civil war [1861-1865] of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign states to invite and provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved,” President Lincoln said in 1863. “[H] armony has prevailed except in the theater of military confl ict.”

"Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defense have not arrested the plow, the shuttle, or the ship,” Lincoln continued. “Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege, and the battlefield, and the country.”

“No human counsel hath devised, nor hath any mortal hand worked out those great things,” Lincoln concluded. “They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God.”

“Virtue is not always amiable,” Delegate John Adams said in 1779. “Integrity is sometimes ruined by Prejudices and by Passions…and party disputes.”

“Our Government is a Game at Leap frog,” former President John Adams wrote fellow Declaration signatory Benjamin Rush in 1808. “Once in a dozen years there will be a Revolution in Administration. The Democrats will reign for about that Period, and make the President their Slave then the Aristocrats will leap over their backs and Shoulders, and reign in their turn making the President their Machine.”

“I think instead of opposing Systematically any

Stinginess,” Adams concluded. “The miserable struggle for place and power must be laid aside!”

[Italics Added]

The nation’s politics are indeed Sordid. Congress is horribly divided, as are many State legislatures. If colonial lawyer Margaret Brent [1601-1671] has any say women’s rights, the Equal Rights Amendment are centuries overdue! Then there is the economy; the recent debt ceiling dilemma; global warming; immigration and campaign fi nance reform; the internet, technology, and AI.” Gun statistics speak for themselves.

When celebrating your July 4th Festival, think of the Founding Fathers their understanding of Unity.

Ask yourself! For what reason is a politician’s age now a front page factor? Pennsylvania’s Benjamin Franklin was 70 years old when he signed the Declaration of Independence.

Or why London School of Economics comparative politics Fellow Brian Klaas titled his book The Despot’s Apprentice: Donald Trump’s Attack on Democracy?

Last month the U.S. Department of Justice charged Trump-45 [NY, FL-R] with 37 federal counts including conspiracy to obstruct justice. The initial criminal trial is scheduled for August 14, Trump appointed U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon presiding. DOJ special counsel Jack Smith’s second criminal case remains under investigation.

“The American story depends…On ‘We the People,’” incoming President Joe Biden [DE-D] said in 2021. “Few periods in our nation’s history have been more challenging...”

“To restore the soul and to secure the future of

& treasure to establish, we must drive far away the demon of party spirit and local reproach,” President George Washington [VA-I, 1789-1797] wrote in 1790.

Reproach, as defi ned by the American Heritage Dictionary: 1. Blame; rebuke. 2. Disgrace; shame. “Posterity!” John Adams reckoned in 1777. “You will never know how much it cost the present Generation to preserve your Freedom! I hope you will make good Use of it. If you do not, I shall repent in heaven that I ever took half the Pains to preserve it.”

“The man who has come to regard the ballot box as a juggler’s hat has renounced his allegiance,” retired Union General and 23rd President Benjamin Harrison [IN-R] concluded in 1889. “Let us exalt patriotism and moderate our party contentions.”

Founded in 2010 the No Labels organization now pursues political power: “In between today’s extremist Far Right and Far Left political tribes resides the ‘exhausted majority.’”

About the Author: 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 Duff s & Up the Assets, as “a blueprint for thousands of nonprofi t managers.” A former museum director, SLAM’s saving grace Sarah received Alexandria’s Salute to Women Award in 2007. Email: a bitofhistory53@gmail.com

When

The Jewel of the DMV - Part Deux

Last month I was pretty harsh in examining the City of Alexandria’s Torpedo Factory “new” artist/studio selection process, which as the many, many comments both here and in various social media platforms gave evidence to, has been and remains a contentious point at the Factory. My focus was on the process, but some commenters felt that my critical approach to the process problem also reached to the new artists’ themselves – that was not my intention and for that I apologize, and must note that as recent as December of last year I lauded several of the new artists.

The comments also testified to the individual parts of the process which artists think are good for the Factory’s future, as well some key ones that the artists dislike immensely, most common amongst these being the three-year re-jurying requirement.

Back to the process.

In my own experience as a juror, I have been part of hundreds of art jurying processes over the last few decades (including multiple times at the Torpedo Factory itself), and thus I am very familiar how most art jurying/judging processes are run.

ART & ANTIQUES ANTIQUES

The article stemmed from the debate (from Torpedo Factory artists who communicated with me) as to the issue of the jurying process for the Torpedo Factory being a full "blind" process"blind" defined as a process where the jurors do not know anything about the artists and only view the artwork and often an art resume/CV.

The opposite of a full blind jurying process is where more detailed information about the

The City’s new application guidelines for Torpedo factory studios note that 65% of an application’s score was based on artwork. The remaining 35% of the application was scored on professional artist presentation skills including “artist statements, process statements, and artist talks, as well as the artists’ interest in engaging with the public and working within a community.”

There are three phases:

Phase I considered artistic merit and was judged blind, with jurors only viewing the art. Jurors looked for deliberately crafted artwork with an authentic and original point of view that reflects an awareness of current trends and aesthetics in the larger art world. It was worth a maximum 50 points. Applicants needed 33 points to advance.

applicant artist is offered to the jurors and specific guidelines given to them as to how to pick them, including media/genre/size allotments, etc.

GALLERIES

Phase II was non-blind and considered applicants’ backgrounds. Jurors looked for artists who could explain their art and who wanted to engage and interact with the public through their work. They reviewed applicants’ career highlights and how they have marketed

Wall of a Million Colors Oaxaca Mexico - photo by Jenny Nordstrom

themselves or their work. It was worth a maximum of 25 points. Applicants needed a combined 50 points from Phases I and II to advance.

Phase III gave the jurors an opportunity to meet and interact with the applicants. This was the first-time jurors saw their artwork in-person to review it for quality. Jurors consider the applicants’ ability to communicate about their artwork, with an eye toward their desire to positively engage with the public. It was worth a maximum of 25 points.

Bottom line: Not a full blind process, as is it more common in my own wide and diverse experience as a juror, or a mixed process, where jurors get to see a resume with names, etc., but an amplified, phased-in system where the jurors get to actually meet the artists. That answers the “blind” part of the issue, in a rather creative and new process which I actually think may be good in the long run for the Factory. Part of me understands why in 2023 the “meet the artists” part of the selection process could have an impact –as whenever possible, the ideal artist is not only a good artist, but can also engage in a meet-the-public-facing venture such as having a public studio is.

Next issue.

Jaqueline Tucker, the City’s Race and Social Equity Officer was consulted while developing the process, and I noted in the application process that "the application asked for applicants’ gender identity, disability status, language, ethnicity and/ or race, and age. This information was not shared with the Jurors and held no bearing on scores."

Diane Ruggiero, the Deputy Director, Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities Department for the City of Alexandria Office of the Arts, was also kind enough to amplify and she emailed me that “… about demographics - yes, we ask about who is applying since we don’t want to make any assumptions about how people identify. For Phase 3, although the artist is presenting

to the jurors, the criteria that the jurors are evaluating is very clear and does not include any information about race, gender, age, etc.”

She also added that “the only time the demographic information was shared with the jurors was in the final report at the conclusion of the process.”

That seems to answer one of the more contentious points among Factory artists – clearly triggered by the fact that the application asked for these details in the first place.

In 2022, 78 artists applied and 26 were offered a studio: 11 of 24 incumbent artists and 15 of 54 new artists were accepted.

Now for the part of the process that needs a fine tune – especially for the new artistsas “new accepted applicants will be offered a three (3) year lease and be re-juried every three (3) years.”

In my opinion, three years is not enough time for an artist to establish a footprint in such a dynamic place as the Factory. It also gives the appearance that the City is more interested in constant renewal as opposed to long-standing artistic presence. To get both, I would change that to a five year lease with a two-lease (10 year maximum) stint commencing with the next set of applicants.

Lastly, one commenter in social media went Alensky on me because of my June article, noting (among many other things) that I was “privileged.” My seamstress mom and longshoreman father must have chuckled in heaven at that characterization.

About the Author: F. Lennox Campello's art news, information, gallery openings, commentary, criticism, happenings, opportunities, and everything associated with the global visual arts scene with a special focus on the Greater Washington, DC area has been a premier source for the art community for over 20 years. Since 2003, his blog has been the 11th highest ranked art blog on the planet with over SIX million visitors. Photo credit: Lee Moody.

“A woman in love with abstraction” - 2021

Exclusively representing the works of F. Lennox Campello

Price and additional images upon request.

“ONE OF THE MOST INTERESTING PEOPLE OF WASHINGTON, DC”

16x20 watercolor on paper with embedded electronic images that rotate every 5 seconds.

– Washington City Paper

Exclusively representing the works of F. Lennox Campello

Syreni Caledonii (Northern Atlantic Mermaid). Watercolor, charcoal and Conte. 2019, 12x36 inches.

Price and additional images upon request. Alida Anderson Art Projects, LLC, Washington, DC www.alidaanderson.com / info@alidaanderson.com

We Love Dots

... and you just have to see our current fab selection of polka dot separates by Christopher Calvin! Blue with white dots, white with grey dots and lilac with white dots. In the shop and online!

Monday –Saturday 11 am – 5 pm Sunday Noon – 5 pm Carol in Christopher Calvin Polka Dots

Untitled Encaustic on Baltic Birch by Natalie Abrams

A-m-e-r-i-c-a-n G-i-r-l

In honor of Independence Day, I’d like to discuss a song with some US flavor. “American Girl” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Is one of the best rock-n-roll songs this land of liberty has ever produced. Year after year this song has managed to exude a freshness that seems impervious to time. From its jangling guitars and snappy beat to its melodic and catchy top line, “American Girl” fills the listener with a feeling unlike any other. So, if you’re in the mood for some timeless classic American rock this 4th of July, this number by the Heartbreakers is a perfect fit for your playlist.

“American Girl” begins with the sound of vintage guitars played through slightly overdriven amplifiers. In the background, subtle Hi-hat pedal pumps are layered in just before the beat drops and the infectious hooks of this song start sinking in. As the intro music progresses, we hear a nostalgic bass guitar melody played on the high frets further expanding the musical palette. Finally, the iconic sound of the Heartbreaker’s backing vocals swoops in and out just before Tom Petty delivers the fi rst verse.

For the verse we hear picked chords from the rhythm guitar mixed with single strummed triplets and double stops from the lead guitar. Meanwhile, the drums and bass work together to create a snappy rhythm that bops and swings giving the song its upbeat backbone. On top of the music, we hear Tom Petty’s distinct voice deliver the lines, “Well, she was an American girl / Raised on promises / She couldn't help thinkin' that there / Was a little more to life Somewhere else”. As the verse progresses, the band gradually increases the energy with more intense guitars, rhythmic elements, and backing vocals. These elements mix together to create a satisfying transition into the chorus.

The chorus for “American Girl” doesn’t follow the typical pattern of a rock-n-roll chorus. Where most songs feature a high contrast between the verse and chorus, “American Girl” offers what feels like an evolution of the verse. Here the band introduces a new chord progression creating an additional dimension of emotion under the storytelling of the lyrics. The winding music of the chorus culminates with Petty delivering the melodious lyrics “She was an American Girl”: a line that has been hooking ears for nearly fifty years.

The instrumental for “American Girl” departs from the vibe of the verse and chorus hitting the ears in a totally unexpected way. One of my favorite things about Tom Petty’s music is his ability to present ultra simple ideas with an amazing level of style and freshness. The instrumental for “American Girl” is a perfect example of this. Its sparse palm muted guitar chords and bass notes fit like puzzle pieces with its well-spaced guitar licks, percussion, and Fats Domino style piano. For me, it’s the fi nishing touch that makes “American Girl” the perfect song that it is.

Through his music, Tom Petty gave the world a gift that will last forever. He left us too soon, but his presence is still felt in the body of the work he left behind. If you're eager to experience the magic of "American Girl," you can fi nd it on popular streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and most other places music is streamed or sold. To delve deeper into the world of Tom Petty, you can explore his legacy on Wikipedia, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

About the Author: Ron Powers is an independent A&R specialist and music industry consultant and is constantly searching for, discovering and writing about new talent.

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.

The Fish Market 703.836.5676 105 King St. shmarketoldtown.com

La Portas 703.683.6313

1600 Duke St.

The Light Horse 703.549.0533

715 King St. lighthorserestaurant.com

Michael’s Little Italy 703-548-9338

305 S. Washington St.

Murphys Irish Pub 703.548.1717

713 King St. murphyspub.com

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.

z

Although Uncle Sam (initials U.S.) is the most popular personification of the United States, many Americans have little or no concept of his origins. If pressed, the average American might point to the early 20th century and Sam’s frequent appearance on army recruitment posters. In reality, however, the figure of Uncle Sam dates back much further. Portraying the tradition of representative male icons in America, which can be traced well back into colonial times, the actual figure of Uncle Sam, dates from the War of 1812.

At that point, most American icons had been geographically specific, centering most often on the New England area. However, the War of 1812 sparked a renewed interest in national identity which had faded since the American Revolution.

The term Uncle Sam is said to have been derived from a man named Samuel Wilson, a meat packer from Troy, New York, who supplied rations for the soldiers during the War of 1812. Samuel Wilson, who served in the American Revolution at the age of 15, was born in Massachusetts. After the war, he settled in the town of Troy, New

Wilson’s packages were labeled “E.A. –U.S., which stood for Elbert Anderson, the contractor, and the United States. When an individual in the meat packing facility asked what it stood for, a coworker joked and said it referred to Sam Wilson — “Uncle Sam.”

A number of soldiers who were originally from Troy, also saw the designation on the barrels, and being acquainted with Sam Wilson and his nickname “Uncle Sam”, and the knowledge that Wilson was feeding the army, led them to the same conclusion. The local newspaper soon picked up on the story and Uncle Sam eventually gained widespread acceptance as the nickname for the U.S. federal government.

Uncle Sam Wants You!

York, where he and his brother, Ebenezer, began the fi rm of E. & S. Wilson, a meat packing facility. Samuel was a man of great fairness, reliability, and honesty, who was devoted to his country. Well liked, local residents began to refer to him as “Uncle Sam.”

During the War of 1812, the demand for meat supply for the troops was badly needed. Secretary of War, William Eustis, made a contract with Elbert Anderson, Jr. of New York City to supply and issue all rations necessary for the United States forces in New York and New Jersey for one year. Anderson ran an advertisement on October 6, 1813 looking to fi ll the contract. The Wilson brothers bid for the contract and won. The contract was to fi ll 2,000 barrels of pork and 3,000 barrels of beef for one year. Situated on the Hudson River, their location made it ideal to receive the animals and to ship the product.

At the time, contractors were required to stamp their name and where the rations came from onto the food they were sending.

Though this is an endearing local story, there is doubt as to whether it is the actual source of the term. Uncle Sam is mentioned previous to the War of 1812 in the popular song “Yankee Doodle”, which appeared in 1775. However, it is not clear whether this reference is to Uncle Sam as a metaphor for the United States, or to an actual person named Sam. Another early reference to the term appeared in 1819, predating Wilson’s contract with the government.

The connection between this local saying and the national legend is not easily traced. As early as 1830, there were inquiries into the origin of the term “Uncle Sam”. The connection between the popular cartoon figure and Samuel Wilson was reported in the New York Gazette on May 12, 1830.

Regardless of the actual source, Uncle Sam immediately became popular as a symbol of an everchanging nation. His “likeness” appeared in drawings in various forms including resemblances to Brother Jonathan, a national

personification and emblem of New England, and Abraham Lincoln, and others. In the late 1860s and 1870s, political cartoonist Thomas Nast began popularizing the image of Uncle Sam. Nast continued to evolve the image, eventually giving Sam the white beard and stars-andstripes suit that are associated with

the character today. He is also credited with creating the modern image of Santa Claus as well as coming up with the donkey as a symbol for the Democratic Party and the elephant as a symbol for the Republicans.

However, when a military recruiting poster was created in about 1917, the image of Uncle Sam was fi rmly set into American consciousness. The famous “I Want You” recruiting poster was created by James Montgomery Flagg and four million posters were printed between 1917 and 1918. Indeed, the image was a powerful one: Uncle Sam’s striking features, expressive eyebrows, pointed fi nger, and direct address to the viewer made this drawing into an American icon.

Throughout the years, Uncle Sam has appeared in advertising and on products ranging from cereal to coffee to car insurance. His likeness also continued to appear on military recruiting posters and in numerous political cartoons in newspapers

In September 1961, the U.S. Congress recognized Samuel Wilson as “the progenitor of America’s national symbol of Uncle Sam.” Wilson died at age 88 in 1854, and was buried next to his wife Betsey Mann in the Oakwood Cemetery in Troy, New York, the town that calls itself “The Home of Uncle Sam.”

Uncle Sam represents a manifestation of patriotic emotion.

About the Author: Kathy started LegendsOfAmerica.com in 2003 as a way to share her passion for American history and travel destinations across our great nation. She is a published author and has had several appearances on television talking about different old west characters. Kathy and her husband Dave run the website from their home on the Lake of the Ozarks just outside Warsaw, Missouri. © Kathy Weiser-Alexander / Owner-Editor of Legends of America.

A Beach Bag of Books

Who decides what makes for a beach book? Perhaps some save time for serious reads during their yearly holidays, but many think that beach novels could accidentally be left in the sand covered with lotion and no harm done. These days, though, the beach book might be on an e-reader, so it’s simply left to be crowded to the back of your content list and forgotten when new works take its place. In any case, here are some new publications from which to pick, some of which may resonate long after July and August are memories.

First up is actress Jennette McCurdy’s unsparing memoir

I’m Glad My Mom Died. Her fastmoving, compelling work looks at her relationship with her stage mom and dysfunctional family. Her anxious, unfulfi lled mother focuses on her goal of making Jennette a star, taking her to her fi rst audition at six years old. In trying to please Mom, Jennette does everything she can to perform to standard, eventually ending up on a Nickelodeon series called iCarly, followed by the spinoff Sam & Cat alongside Ariana Grande. Her mother, who has no boundaries, goes as far as bathing her and her brother until they are teenagers.

As she grows up, Jennette develops addictions and a serious eating disorder to relieve the pressure, rejecting therapy until she has no choice when she feels herself slipping away.

Although I have not seen her TV series, I was drawn in by the outrageous title, which represents her pitch black humor. McCurdy’s look back is far more nuanced than the title in sorting her feelings about a mother she loved

and feared. It is also funny enough to make her palatable and admirable as the survivor of a bizarre, pressured childhood.

Then comes Ruth Ware’s novel The It Girl. I speed read naturally and automatically slow down some for the works that matter to me. I read it fairly recently and very quickly. In this case, I vaguely remember that it’s a whodunit about a murder of a sparkling young woman who has everything, as told by a roommate at Oxford who may have contributed to the wrong person being convicted. It is the perfect book to glance at in between looking at the waves or leave at the beach house, fi nished or unfi nished.

Curtis Sittenfeld’s recent book Romantic Comedy may be optioned for a rom-com movie, but I will not be there to see it. Her book follows a female writer, Sally Milz, who pens sketches for The Night Owls, a comedy show that is obviously based on Saturday Night Live. The book aims to turn on its head the truth that disheveled, shlubby male performers or writers (read Pete Davidson) form relationships with beautiful, polished female hosts (read Ariana Grande). According to this rule, when Sally meets the kind, attractive musical guest, Noah Brewster, to go over sketch ideas, she resists the notion that he could ever be interested in her, an ordinary looking, anonymous writer.

As you might expect, this novel fl ips the script, and Sally fi nally succumbs to the idea that her humor and personality could be exactly what Noah needs. After an initial attraction that goes nowhere, they start to get to

know one another online during the pandemic, and Sally begins to shine as she opens up to this surprisingly human rock star.

This book annoyed me. A lot. I wanted to like it. I love good romantic comedies. They are so hard to get right. I enjoyed the wish fulfi lment idea for this book and wanted to suspend my disbelief. Sittenfeld’s concept of a relationship developing despite and perhaps even because of the pandemic is charming. I wanted to read this book and enjoy myself.

Sittenfeld herself is not naturally a comedy writer, though, if this book is indicative. Sally’s witticisms are not funny enough or even endearing. Noah seemed too good to be true. The conversations Sally has with her beau-to-be have some depth, but overall I found her an irritating, fl at character. That being said, many reviewers disagree with my impression of the book—it has been a hit—so you may want to see if you number among them.

I recently picked up Ann Napolitano’s new novel Hello Beautiful, a story about the Padavanos, four working class Italian-American sisters, their parents, and William Waters, the WASP they come to know when the oldest, Julia, marries him after meeting him at Northwestern University.

A family saga set in Chicago and New York, it would not have automatically attracted me, but I gave it a chance. I recommend it for its stories about the bonds among the sisters—their natural closeness and the estrangements that almost sever their ties—along with the story of William, the reticent young man who becomes a de facto Padavano.

William may be my favorite character. In his lifelong relationship with basketball, a close-knit team is a family that saves him, along with his relationship with the sisters. They each help him learn who he is and what he wants to be.

For a tale that is a twist on Little Women , Ann Napolitano writes plot here in a way that is atypical and modern enough to be completely believable. For all the tumultuous family drama, Hello Beautiful is lovely and hopeful, a story in which endings are almost always beginnings. Family, however odd or occasionally dysfunctional, envelops the Padavanos everywhere they go, yet in a way that grounds them and lets them grow.

Hello Beautiful will engage and absorb you if you sit on the sand or by the lake, even with distractions, and you may even think about it afterwards. To my mind, that is the best kind of beach book—one that doesn’t waste your time and is sufficiently well-written not to put you to work.

If you would like to send comments, feel free to send them to the author at krameroldtowncrier@yahoo.com.

" Who decides what makes for a beach book? Perhaps some save time for serious reads during their yearly holidays, but many think that beach novels could accidentally be left in the sand covered with lotion and no harm done."

Chesapeake Earns Another “C” in Latest Bay Health Assessment

As the deadline looms for the Chesapeake Bay’s 2025 cleanup goals, the annual progress report from the University of Maryland shows that the estuary’s overall health is neither declining nor improving by significant margins.

That can be interpreted as a win of sorts, given the challenges that the Bay faces from a growing population, intensifying farming practices and climate change. But it certainly falls short of the progress that multi-state and federal partnership had in mind when it launched the current iteration of the cleanup a decade ago.

In its 2022 report card, released June 6, the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science issued a score of 51 points out of 100 for the overall health of the Bay and its tributaries — good for a “C” on the center’s scale. That was a one-point gain from 2021, but it marked the third consecutive year of improvement.

This year’s progress was driven by better water clarity, an increase in underwater grasses, and a decrease in pollution from the nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus, according to the report. The region as a whole also saw lower levels of chlorophyll, a measure of harmful algae blooms. However, dissolved oxygen and benthic communities (the bottom-dwelling creatures) were down.

“While the trajectory of improvements, particularly concerning nutrients in the Bay, is in the right direction, we need to pick up the pace of restoration so that we can hit our nutrient reduction targets in the future and ensure our resilience to climate change,” said UMCES President Peter Goodwin.

Around the Bay, nine of the 17 regions saw increases in their scores. The biggest decline – from a 50 to a 36 – was seen in the Choptank River on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The Upper Bay experienced the greatest improvement, jumping from a 49 to a 58.

For the fi rst time, researchers wove into the grade a measure of environmental justice, which included indicators for social vulnerability, environmental burden and health vulnerability. The scale suggests that the greatest disparities can be found in urban and rural regions while the lower impacts are in suburban areas.

Overall, the report card showed that the Chesapeake’s health has changed little since its debut in 1986. Then, the Bay scored a 48, three points lower than in 2022. Last year’s score, though, was tied for sixth-best in the record.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Chesapeake Bay restoration effort. The program — a collaboration among federal agencies, the Bay’s watershed states and the District of Columbia — faces a self-imposed 2025 deadline for a range of Bay cleanup goals. Restoration leaders, though, have already acknowledged that the region will fall short on many of them, including the core goal to reduce nutrient pollution. Talks are already in the works about how to shape the effort beyond 2025.

The UMCES report card mirrored other recent Bay assessments. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation, a nonprofit environmental group, rated the Bay’s health at a D-plus in its 2022 analysis. That was unchanged from 2020.

Following the release of the UMCES report, the Bay Foundation called on officials to increase funding to address pollution and climate change in the region. Much of those reductions will need to come from the agricultural sector, said foundation President Hilary Harp Falk.

“While it is critical that the U.S. Department of Agriculture increase conservation funding and technical assistance, a recent study from the Bay Program’s Scientific and Technical Advisory Committee has reinforced that more funding alone will not be enough,” she said in a statement.

“We can still leave clean water and a healthy environment to the next generation, but only if Bay leaders listen to the science, target efforts more strategically, and begin paying for the outcomes that matter most to local communities and the Bay downstream.”

About the Author

Photo by David Sites

APPLE PIE AND FOURTH OF JULY

There’s nothing quite like the July 4th fireworks on the Mall in Washington D.C. But braving the crowds once every few years (or every few decades) is plenty for some, who might wish for smaller crowds and a more small town atmosphere. You don’t have to go far, most of these are within an hour’s drive of the Beltway and can be as simple as some fireworks at dusk, or a full day celebration with parades, picnics, and more. As the actual date is on a Tuesday this year, some celebrations will be held on weekend dates.

Outside of Washington DC, the fireworks at Great Meadow in The Plains - 45 minutes southwest in Virginia's Blue Ridge foothills - is probably the biggest display in the area, and the festivities include a full day of family fun. This year marks the return of its famous fireworks show and activities for the 34th year on Sunday, July 2. Gates open at 5 p.m., afternoon activities include family games—cornhole toss, sack races, face painting, tug-of war, additional games and entertainment. The Flying Circus will provide an exciting air show and there will be polo exhibitions and hat and tailgate competitions with prizes for the most creative. Bring a picnic or purchase food on site. There will be food trucks and a beer garden. The extraordinary fireworks display gets underway at dusk.

Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs (no umbrellas or tents, unless in reserved tailgate spaces.) Great Meadow, a beautiful 374acre park is also known as the home of the Virginia Gold Cup races. General admission tickets are $50 per car (up to five passengers) in advance or $60 at the gate. Special tailgate packages, VIP passes and bus passes are also available. Go to www.gmjuly4th. com for information on tailgate packages and to purchase tickets in advance. Event is rain or shine, no refunds. Please leave pets at home.

On the actual July 4th date, several towns in the Blue Ridge have Independence Day parades and fireworks at dusk, including Leesburg. After its daytime parade in town, the night sky will light up in red white and blue at Ida Lee Park including live music from Kevin Mac and the Homies. Gates open

at 6 pm allowing time to lay out A blanket on the expansive lawn and enjoy the music, a picnic, hot dogs, burgers, funnel cake and ice cream before the fireworks show at 9:30. Choreographed to patriotic music, this display is one of the larger and most spectactular in the region.

Twilight polo at Great Meadow continues Saturday evenings in July at the Greenhill Arena with themed evenings held each week. Bring your family, friends and coworkers for an evening of fun and excitement in a wonderful outdoor setting on Saturday nights through July. Stunning sunsets, three polo matches, picnicking, wine, food trucks, giant tug o’war games for the kids at halftime, then dance the night away! One ticket admits an entire car load of family and friends.

Admission tickets are available online for $25 per vehicle (5 people), or you can pay $30 cash per vehicle at the gate. Limited VIP tailgate and box seat options available, providing you and your party a private space to enjoy the night. Perfect for groups, bridal parties, birthdays, corporate entertaining and more! Visit their Twilight Polo Facebook page or check out the website at www. twilightpolo.com for a schedule.

Now, about those apple pies: we have several suggestions. July kicks off county fair season in Virginia, and there’s no place like the bake sales at county fairs to sample some of this perennial favorite. Fauquier County Fair finally returns after a several year pandemic and scheduling hiatus; it will be held this year July 12-15 at the fairgrounds just outside Warrenton. And there are a number of farmers markets in the area with usually plentiful pie offerings. A personal favorite of mine are the apple pies and, in fact, anything apple from the bakery at the Apple House in Linden. Their apple fritters are melt in your mouth good, especially hot off the griddle. The Apple House is a restaurant located in Linden, a small village on the border of Fauquier and Warren counties off Exit 13 on I-66. www.TheAppleHouse.net

Pie caught your eye? Be sure to check out our favorite apple pie recipe on page 31!

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

As we pondered where to take a Road Trip in June that would be fitting for the July issue, our fi rst inclination was to either head up to the Blue Ridge where temps will be cooler or to the Bay to be near the water. However, we went full circle right back home to concentrate on a bit of Americana that is in keeping with this month’s theme – Baseball, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie and Chevrolet – in our own backyard!

Baseball has always been my sport of choice due to my late father’s influence. He loved it and introduced me to names the likes of Willie Mays, Don Drysdale and Sandy Koufax in my early years. I also ended up married to a big sports fan who put together a 3 week honeymoon trek that encompassed seeing the Rangers, the Red Sox, the Phillies, the Cardinals and the Royals! My friends thought I was crazy. While the marriage ended, my love of the sport has never waned. Bob is a dedicated rugby guy but baseball ranks right up there with his favorites as well.

While we are big fans of the Nationals, we decided that catching a minor league game would be more affordable and convenient for our readers who are looking for something to do with the whole family. We picked the Bowie Baysox since their ballpark is an easy 20 mile drive from Alexandria and has a ton of FREE parking. The ticket prices range from $10 - $20 and there really isn’t a bad seat in the house. They also have several *promo nights that include some nice perks. Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling 301-464-4865 or on the website at baysox.com as well as purchased at the stadium. DO NOT order them from a secondary site! I inadvertently did and ended up getting charged $49 per seat (should have been $18) in addition to a $15 fee for each ticket.

Prince George’s Stadium is a very nice venue and

as mentioned above, easily accessible from the Beltway. We were both very impressed with the layout but had a bit of a hard time fi nding our seats. The numbering system for the seats in the 100 section (close to the field) on the concourse isn’t marked. We had to ask one of the ushers to point us in the right direction. We had great seats next to the Baysox dugout and three rows up from the backstop netting. We were also impressed with the concessions. The hot dogs are $4.25 and the peanuts $5 and the 16 ounce brews are $9. We are pretty much purists when it comes to ballpark eats so neither of us paid any attention to what the nachos and burgers and fries cost. The dogs were good, the peanuts fresh and the beer cold!

Another option for game day/night fare is The Baysox Diamond View Restaurant located on the suite level. This is a full service restaurant is open to any Box (100 level ) & Reserved Seat (200 level ) ticket holders, Fielder's Choice or Flex Pack ticket holders. The restaurant opens one hour before the start of games and is open through the end of the game. Fans are invited to watch the game in the climate-controlled suite where a-la-carte food and drink service is available for purchase. Seating in the Diamond View Restaurant is on a fi rst-come, fi rst-seated basis for all fans with appropriate tickets who are interested in watching the game from the climate controlled suite-level. Reservations cannot be made. It is also a popular venue for private parties as was the case when we were there so we didn’t get to check it out.

The Baysox have been the Double-A Affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles since 1993 and they remain the longest standing Orioles affiliate. Another interesting factoid is that the outfield dimensions at Prince George’s Stadium are the same as the original home of the Orioles – Memorial Stadium –where they played from 1954 to 1991.

I was curious as to what a “Baysox” mascot would be and then came “Louie from Bowie” and…I’m still not sure what he is other than a furry/hairy green thing that dances around the park. Guess it’s not any odder than the “Philly Phanatic”. The Baysox also have an on field emcee named Evan. He keeps the crowd involved and announces all of the contests and winners that take place during the game – and there are several. The guy has a boatload of energy for sure.

The night we were at the game they were playing the Richmond Flying Squirrels. They are the Double-A Affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. It was a good game and the Baysox were victorious by one run after going into an extra inning! While the Richmond mascot wasn’t in the house, the logo on their hats is a very scary looking squirrel with a superman-like cape on. The other teams in the league have intriguing mascots as well – Rubber Ducks, Rumble Ponies, Yard Goats, Fisher Cats. Just to see what these guys uniforms look like would be worth the trip to a game.

The Stadium is very family oriented in general and in addition to the game itself there is a special area called the “Kids Zone” to keep little ones occupied. The vintage carousel caught my eye and there is a HUGE inflated slide and a moon bounce along with a speed of pitch game in the Zone. Entrance to these is $1.00.

If you are looking for a fun afternoon/evening with the family this summer, consider heading out to a Baysox game. As a matter of fact, they are hosting an *“Alexandria Community Night” on July 23rd when the Baysox play the Nationals Double-A Affiliate, Harrisburg Senators!

For information on upcoming Baysox promotions and events check them out on Facebook or pull up their website at baysox.com.

“Minor League Baseball throughout our country brings families together for an affordable family fun night out and we are so proud to be a piece of that puzzle in Bowie. You get to see the future of the game of baseball on the field while enjoying a night that has something for everyone in the family from the stands.”

– Adam Pohl, Baysox Director of Marketing.

Photo left and photo above by Joseph Noyes

Photo by Joseph Noyes

Old Town Crier

NAPLES FL TOPS THE LIST FOR BEST BEACHES IN USA

BEACHFRONT SEASONAL RENTAL AVAILABLE

Naples has again claimed the top spot by Travel and Leisure and several other groups for best beach town in the US. The jewel of SW Florida’s Paradise Coast has sugar sand beaches, turquoise clear waters and every amenity worthy of a world class resort town. Seasonal lease of well furnished 2BR 2BA condo in the very best beachfront location is available this winter (90 day minimum lease term). No ner view from inside and better beach access at any price and most rentals in area start at twice the price. Includes carport parking, heated pool, elevators and privacy; uncrowded beach and, onsite management. Photo is the view from inside!

Call (no texts), email or visit our Facebook page @NaplesOceanfrontCondo. 540-364-9480 • hopespringsfarm@gmail.com

Ten-Plus Years of Feeling “At Home In The Tropics”

Flashback to the fall of 1991 when, as a young professional, I was informed during an interview the position I was soon to be hired for had the perk of an annual trip in January to St. Thomas in the USVI because the fi rm had a client located there. When I left the fi rm three years later, I hadn’t been once on those annual boondoggles. Somehow, the fi rm’s partners determined it more important to take their wives along than a young staff member. With this in mind, I lobbied hard for St. Thomas when Michele and I began planning our fi rst Caribbean trip in mid-2011. Still a little bitter, I wondered what I had missed all those years ago. The lobbying, along with some TripAdvisor research, worked. Soon, we had a February 2012 reservation for a multinight stay at At Home In The Tropics, a four room bed & breakfast (B&B), located on Blackbeard’s Hill.

Soon after the B&B’s founders, Pam and Matt Eckstein, checked us in for our fi rst stay, we discovered the panoramic view of the Charlotte Amalie harbor from the B&B’s pool deck. That fi rst afternoon and evening we soaked in the sights of the harborseaplanes departing and landing, catamarans slowly

coming and going, cruise ships departing for their next port of call, and the sun lighting up a bank of clouds as it set to the west.

had my doubts. Pam insisted new co-owner Jessica Geller’s culinary skills alone would improve the experience at the B&B. We already had a reservation for January 2017, so we would soon see for ourselves.

The Eckstein’s purchased the property that would become the B&B in 1993. Over the next thirteen years, they made improvements as Pam’s job with the Virgin Islands government and Matt’s job operating his contracting business would allow. In 2006, Pam resigned from her job and outfitted four upperlevel rooms of the house for guests. A few months later, concluding what Pam described as “the project of a lifetime”, At Home In The Tropics opened. Matt retired from his contracting business in 2011 to assist Pam with the B&B, which by then was garnering nearly unanimous five-star ratings on TripAdvisor.

In mid-2016, and after four relaxing stays at the B&B, Pam emailed to say she and Matt were selling the B&B. Despite Pam’s assurances the B&B would only get better, I

It was clear the fi rst morning of that 2017 stay Pam had not led us astray. Jessica had already added her personal touch to the breakfast menu that you enjoy on the pool deck (that now features banana pancakes made with homegrown fruit, coconut muffins, and Caribbean Benedict - a dish using plantains instead of an English muffin and featuring a spicy hollandaise sauce).

Jessica’s husband and B&B co-owner, Mark Wiechnik, was already knowledgeable enough to give St. Thomas beach and restaurant tips to guests who requested them.

Over the past seven years, Jessica and Mark have continued to make a good thing better. All while

overcoming two severe obstacles faced by every tourism-centric business on

Now that we're all working remotely Wouldn't you REALLY rather work from the beach?

Pam and Matt Eckstein

St. Thomas, the 2017 hurricanes and the Covid pandemic. The B&B now features a re-tiled pool, a new deck, new room furniture, new artwork, new in room AC units, and a Tesla battery-based backup power system for when the island’s power grid has a hiccup.

The building housing the B&B was built in 1803 as a barracks for the Danish governor’s personal guardsmen. Then governor, Peter von Scholten, built his personal residence on the parcel of land above the guardsmen barracks in 1822. Von Scholten, an architect, also designed Government House - the governor’s office - that is still located just down the steps from the B&B, and several other buildings on St. Thomas and St. Croix. He was forced to return to Denmark in 1848, after issuing an unauthorized proclamation of emancipation for “all those born unfree” in the Danish West Indies.

At Home In The Tropics’ central location allows for drives or cab rides out to several beaches. Two are Magan’s Bay and

Lindquist Beach. Magan’s Bay, one the closet beaches to the B&B, is located within a park that has a nominal entrance fee. The park’s amenities include a snack bar, showers and restrooms. Lindquist Beach, twenty minutes or so east of the B&B. The beach features a beautiful view of St. John and the British Virgin Islands and has restrooms onsite. The park also has a nominal entrance fee.

Honeymoon Beach on Water Island offers a little more uptempo action. A ride or drive to the Crown Bay marina, a ferry ride to Water Island, and a free safari cab ride over the hill will deliver you to Dinghy’s Beach Bar & Grill on Honeymoon Beach. Dinghy’s features good bar food and a variety of beers and beachy cocktails. Yes, getting there can be a bit of work, but is well worth the effort, especially for those looking to mix things up during longer stays on St. Thomas.

A drive or ride to Red Hook, on the east end of St. Thomas, will take you to the St. John ferry. The ferry runs regularly throughout the day and evening to Cruz Bay. From Cruz Bay, safari cabs can be taken to several beaches on St. John. (At the time of this writing, the ferry from downtown Charlotte Amalie to St. John was not operating.)

St. Thomas features a wide variety of restaurants across the island to fit all tastes and budgets. The Yacht Haven area hosts several eateries, in various price ranges, including the Smoking Rooster BBQ, the Tap and Still for burgers, and the 13 Restaurant that features a more rounded menu. Lanai Restaurant at Limetree Beach offers more upscale dining. Nearer the B&B, in Charlotte Amalie, are the Amalia Café for Spanish cuisine, Virgilio’s for Italian, and Gladys Café for a taste of the Caribbean.

Recently, we discovered the photography of Ama Dennis at her downtown gallery, The Creative Native. Her photos, taken throughout the Virgin Islands, capture the feel of the area. Especially impressive are her twilight, night, and grandscape photos. Our visit to The Creative Native was the perfect fi nish to our most recent stay at At Home In The Tropics.

About the Author: Greg Cottrell is a Northern Virginia native who has too many hobbies and not enough time to pursue them all. Among his favorites are travel, photography, and history. And wine, cooking, music……

DINING GUIDE

AMERICAN

1799 PRIME STEAK & SEAFOOD

110 S. Pitt Street

571-404-6001

ADA'S ON THE RIVER

3 Pioneer Mill Way

703-638-1400

AUGIE’S MUSSEL HOUSE

1106 King Street

703.721.3970

BLACKWALL HITCH

5 Cameron St.

703-739-6090

BOB & EDITHS DINER

1743 King Street

703-664-0043

CAFE 44

44 Canal Center

571-800-6644

CHADWICKS

203 Strand St.

703-836-4442

CHART HOUSE

One Cameron St.

703-684-5080

CITY KITCHEN

330 South Pickett St.

703-685-9172

fatcitykitchen.com

EDDIE'S LITTLE SHOP & DELI

1406 King Street

571-312-8615

EVENING STAR CAFÉ

2000 Mt. Vernon Ave.

703-549-5051

EXECUTIVE DINER & CAFE

1400 Duke Street

703-299-0894

FIVE GUYS

725 King St.

703-549-7991

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

HOPS 'N SHINE

3410 Mount Vernon Ave.

703-566-1509

HUMMINGBIRD

220 South Union Street

703-566-1355

JACKS PLACE

222 North Lee St.

703-684-0372

JOE THEISMANNS

1800 Diagonal Rd.

703-739-0777

JUNCTION BAKERY & BISTRO

1508 Mount Vernon Avenue

703-436-0025

KINGS RANSOM

728 King Street

571-319-0794

LAPORTAS 1600 Duke St.

703-683-6313

THE LIGHT HORSE

715 King Street

703-549-0533

LORI'S TABLE 1028 King Street

703-549-5545

LOST DOG CAFE 808 North Henry St.

571-970-6511

MAJESTIC CAFÉ

911 King St. 703-837-9117

MASON SOCIAL 728 Henry Street

703-548-8800 mason-social.com

MURPHYS IRISH PUB

713 King St. 703-548-1717 murphyspub.com

NORTHSIDE 1O 10 East Glebe Rd. 703-888-0032

OAK STEAKHOUSE 901 N. St. Asaph St. 703-840-3395

OCONNELLS RESTAURANT & BAR 112 King St. 703-739-1124 DanielOconnells.com

PORK BARREL BBQ 2312 Mount Vernon Ave. 703-822-5699

THE PEOPLES DRUG 103 N. Alfred Street 571-257-8851

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

RIVER BEND BISTRO 7966 Fort Hunt Rd. 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

SHOOTER MCGEES 5239 Duke St. 703-751-9266

SLATERS MARKET 1552 Potomac Greens Dr. 703-548-3807

SMOKING KOW BBQ 3250 Duke Sttreet 703-888-2649

SONOMA CELLAR 207 King St. 703-966-3550

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

SOUTHSIDE 815

815 S. Washington St. 703-836-6222

SWEET FIRE DONNA'S BBQ & HOPS 510 John Carlyle Street

571-312-7960

THE STUDY 116 South Alfred Street 703-838-8000

T.J. STONES

GRILL HOUSE & TAP ROOM 608 Montgomery St. 703-548-1004 tjstones.com

TOASTIQUE GOURMET TOAST & JUICE BAR

1605 King Street 571-312-1909

UNION STREET PUBLIC HOUSE

121 South Union St. 703-548-1785 unionstreetpublichouse.com

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 warehouseoldtown.com

ASIAN

ASIAN BISTRO

809 King St. 703-836-1515

INDOCHEN

1625 King Street (571) 404-6050

KISSO ASIAN BISTRO 300 King Street 703-888-1513

MALAYA

1019 King St. 703-519-3710

MAI THAI

9 King St.

703-548-0600

NASIME

1209 King St. 703-548-1848

SIGNATURE THAI

722 King Street

707-888-2458

SUNDAY IN SAIGON

682 N. St. Asaph St. 703 549-7777

TOKYO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

66 Canal Center Plaza 703-683-8878

CAPHE BANH MI VIETNAMESE

407 Cameron St. 703-549-0800

KAI ZEN TAVERN

1901 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-836-1212

SISTERS THAI

503 Montgomery St. 571-777-8154

RAILBIRD KITCHEN 804 North Henry St. 703-577-9023

CONTINENTAL

CEDAR KNOLL

GW Parkway at Lucia Ln. 703-780-3665

OLD HOUSE COSMOPOLITAN

1024 Cameron Street 703-717-9361

VILLAGE BRAUHAUS 710 King Street 703-888-1951 villagebrauhaus.com

FRENCH

BASTILLE

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

BRABO

1600 King St. 703-894-3440

LE REFUGE

127 N. Washington St. 703-548-4661

FONTAINES CAFFE & CREPERIE

119 S. Royal St. 703-535-8151

LA MADELEINE

500 King St.

703-729-2854

JOSEPHINE

109 South St. Asaph St. 703-683-1776

TWO NINETEEN RESTAURANT

219 King St. 703-549-1141

ITALIAN

ALDO'S ITALIAN KITCHEN

2850 Eisenhower Avenue (behind the building) 703-888-2243

ANDY’S PIZZA

107 N Fayette St 571-319-0497

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

FACCIA LUNA

823 S. Washington St. 703-838-5998

FRANK PEPE NAPOLETANA PIZZERIA 3231 Duke Street

Alexandria Commons 703-719-2035

HANDOVER BY THE SLICE

728 King Street 571-319-0794

IL PORTO RESTAURANT

121 King St. 703-836-8833

LANDINI BROTHERS

115 King St. 703-836-8404 landinibrothers.com

LENA’S WOOD-FIRED PIZZA & TAP 401 East Braddock Rd. 703-960-1086

MIA'S ITALIAN KITCHEN 100 King Street 703-997-5300

MICHAEL’S ON KING 703 King Street 703-838-9090 Michaelsonking.com

PIECE OUT 2419 Mount Vernon Avenue 703-398-1287

RED ROCKS FIREBRICK PIZZA 904 King St. 703-717-9873

THOMPSON'S ITALIAN 1026 King Street alexandria@thompsonitalian.com

MEDITERRANEAN

BARCA PIER & WINE BAR 2 Pioneer Mill Way 703-638-1100

ELAINE'S 208 Queen Street 571-970-0517

NANDO'S PERI PERI 2462 Mandeville Lane 571-473-5500

TAVERNA CRETEKOU

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

PITA HOUSE 719 King St. 703-684-9194

DELIAS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 209 Swamp Fox Rd. 703-329-0006

VASO'S MEDITERRANEAN BISTRO

1118 King Street 703-566-2720

VASO'S KITCHEN 1225 Powhatan Street 703-548-2747

SEAFOOD

HANKS OYSTER BAR 818 N St. Asaph 703-739-HANK

FISH MARKET-OLD TOWN 105 King St. 703-836-5676 fishmarketoldva.com

THE WHARF 119 King St. 703-836-2834

WHISKEY & OYSTER 301 John Carlyle 703-567-1533

INDIAN

DISHES OF INDIA 1510A Bellview Blvd. 703-660-6085

DIYA 218 North Lee, 2nd Floor 703-706-5338

KISMET MODERN INDIAN 111 North Pitt Street 703-567-4507

NAMASTE 1504 King St. 703-970-0615

MEXICAN LATIN SOUTHWESTERN

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

CHOP SHOP TACO 1008 Madison Street 571-970-6438

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

LOS CUATES RESTAURANT 1116 King Street 703-548-2918

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

LOS TOLTECOS 4111 Duke St. 703-823-1167

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

TEQUILA & TACO 540 John Carlyle Street 703-721-3203

URBANO 116 116 King Street 571-970-5148

The Ubiquitous Hot Dog!

With July 4th celebrations happening this month and baseball in full swing, we thought it a good time to revisit our childhood friend...the Hot Dog. A hot dog is a food consisting of a grilled or steamed sausage served in the slit of a partially sliced bun. The term hot dog can refer to the “sausage” itself. The most popular sausage used is a wiener (Vienna sausage) or a frankfurter, also called frank. The names of these sausages commonly refer to their assembled dish. These types of sausages were culturally imported from Germany and became popular in the United States. It became a working-class street food in the U.S. that was sold at stands and carts. The hot dog became closely associated with baseball and American culture.

Some consider a hot dog to technically be a sandwich. Indeed, you can fi nd the hot dog on the sandwich section of a restaurant menu. Hot dog preparation and condiments vary worldwide. Typical condiments include mustard, ketchup, relish, onions, and cheese sauce. Other toppings include sauerkraut, diced onions, jalapenos, chili, grated cheese, coleslaw, bacon and others.

It is not exactly known who started the practice of serving the sausage in the bun. One of the strongest claims comes from Harry M. Stevens who was a food concessionaire. The claim is that, while working at the New York Polo Grounds in 1901, he came upon the idea of using small French rolls to hold the sausages when the waxed paper they were using ran out.

A German immigrant named Feuchtwanger, from Frankfort, in Hesse, allegedly pioneered the practice in the American Midwest, there are several versions of the story with varying details. According to one account, Feuchtwanger's wife proposed the use of a bun in 1880. Feuchtwanger sold hot dogs on the streets of St. Louis, Missouri, and provided gloves to his customers so that they could handle the sausages without burning their hands. Losing money when customers did not return the gloves, Feuchtwanger's wife suggested serving the sausages in a roll instead.

Another possible origin for serving the sausages in a roll is the pieman, Charles Feltman, at Coney Island in New York City. In 1867 he had a cart made with a stove on

which to boil sausages and a compartment to keep buns in that they served fresh. In 1871 he leased land to build a permanent restaurant and the business grew, selling far more than just the famous "Coney Island Red Hots" as they were known. Whether it was one of these reasons or a combination of them all, the American hot dog is here to stay and has been a staple for children and adults alike and we love them. Today hot dogs come in all shapes and sizes. You can fi nd foot-long hot dogs, Chicago hot dogs, Texas Tommy and many more. Our memory favorites like the hot dogs at the baseball game can be found in your local grocery. Being a fan of the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile (now known as the Frankmobile) and the popular TV jingle, I buy their brand – they “plump when ya’ cook ‘em! However, it appears that I am in the minority if you believe a Facebook survey conducted by my partner last month. She asked her 555 “friends” what their preference was and it resulted in a dead heat between Nathan’s and Hebrew Nationals! In conducting research for this write up, I ordered the Harbor Hot Dog at the Hidden Harbor Restaurant in Solomons, Maryland. I would have to qualify this as a “super” dog. It was stuffed with Pepper Jack Cheese, wrapped in bacon and deep fried. It was served on a toasted bun and topped with coleslaw, onion straw and their secret sauce. To be totally up front…it was a lot and I was thinking that a few Tums were in order later. Totally on the other end of the scale, we went to a baseball game to watch the Bowie Baysox play the Richmond Flying Squirrels and had your basic hot dog with just mustard. This was a real treat. I am a purist for the most part but my partner is a fan of mustard, chopped onion, relish and wait for it….ketchup on hers. When she is in public, however, she leaves the ketchup in the container.

We featured Old Town’s only eating establishment dedicated to this delicacy, Haute Dogs and Fries, in this section a few years ago. It is located at 610 Montgomery Street in North Old Town. They really do the “haute” dog justice in this little place! The choices run the gamut, so if you are a purist and just want mustard you are as good to go as the aficionado that would love the likes of the Harbor Dog I tried last month.

The Perfect Apple Pie

In keeping with the theme of this issue, Barbara Sharp, Covergirl Miss Red’s competition (see About the Cover on page 6), shares her go-to recipe for the Great American Apple Pie, which she’s been using for the last 45 years and has yet to disappoint!

For this recipe, Barbara recommends using either Granny Smith, Honey Crisp or Braeburn apples.

Ingredients:

• 6-8 tart apples, pared, cored and thinly sliced (6 cups)

• ¾ to 1 cup sugar

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• ½ to 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Dash ground nutmeg

• 2 tablespoons butter

• Directions:

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees

Combine sugar, flour, spices, and dash of salt; mix with apples. Line 9-inch pie plate with pastry. Fill with apple mixture; dot with butter. Place top pastry over apples, seal, and cut slits to allow steam to escape. Sprinkle with sugar. Bake at 400 degrees for 50 minutes or until done. If edges begin to brown too quickly, cover with strips of aluminum foil.

Double Crust:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2/3 cup shortening

• 5-7 tablespoons cold water

Sift flour and salt together. Cut in the shortening with pastry blender till pieces look like small peas/coarse cornmeal. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon cold water over flour mixture and gently toss with fork. Continue with this until pastry comes together. Form into two balls. Flatten these on lightly floured surface with your hands. Roll from center out to edge till 1/8 thick.

Line pie plate with pastry. Trim this off to the edge of the pie plate. Place top pastry loosely over well-filled pie. Trim ½ inch beyond edge. Tuck top crust under edge of lower crust and flute the edge.

-Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book 1976

Charred Fish on Grilled Watermelon An Odd but Tasty Combo

Summer is here, and it's time to fi re up the grill! If you're looking for a new and exciting recipe to impress your friends and family, look no further than Charred Fish on Grilled Watermelon.

Ingredients:

• Firm white fish

• Watermelon

• Blackening seasoning (I prefer salt free)

• Butter

• Outdoor heat source

• Belgian endive to hold scoops of salsa

• Allspice

• Salt and pepper

Directions:

This recipe combines two unlikely ingredients - fish and watermelon - to create a delicious and unique flavor combination. The smoky, spicy fish pairs perfectly with the sweet, juicy watermelon, creating a dish that is sure to be a hit at your next summer barbecue.

To start, you'll need to cut your watermelon into even strips, about 1/2 inch thick. Brush them with olive oil and dust them with allspice, then grill them (I've used a George Foreman and a Panini grill) for about 2-3 minutes per side. The goal here is to get some grill marks on the watermelon and soften it slightly.

While the watermelon is grilling, coat your fish (I recommend halibut) in melted butter and blackening seasoning. Be sure to use a salt-free seasoning, as the fish will already be plenty flavorful from the seasoning and the grill.

Once your fish is coated, place it on the grill (or hot iron skillet) cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until charred and cooked through. The key here is to get a nice char on the fish without overcooking it, so keep an eye on it as it cooks.

To serve, place a piece of charred fish on top of a grilled watermelon strip and serve it with a Belgian endive leaf filled with cold salsa. The crispness of the endive and the freshness of the salsa will provide a great contrast to the smoky, spicy fish and sweet watermelon.

Overall, Charred Fish on Grilled Watermelon is a creative and delicious way to enjoy grilled fish this summer. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress your guests, and the recipe is easy enough to make for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. So fi re up the grill or iron skillet and give this recipe a try - your taste buds will thank you!

About the Author: Glenn Morel is a producer turned chef. His website is www. ifihadachef.com. With experience in restaurants from Florida to Manhattan, he specializes in bringing his clients their very own personal chef for any special event. In addition to private parties of 12 (or more-or-less), he also offers catering for small and large groups. Chef Glenn works with you to create a customized menu and first-class event. He brings culinary professionals with him that dress appropriately and are experienced in handling food. They are also often trained mixologists and fi ne dining servers.

Meet NOVA’s Newest Wineries: 2023 Edition

With over 300 wineries in the state, one might think the Virginia wine scene has become oversaturated. Yet year after year the industry welcomes new members, continuing what seems to be a never-ending expansion.Northern Virginia has been especially lucky in this regard, as nearly a dozen wineries have opened here since 2022. Here are a few that stand out.

October One Wine Tasting Room (Leesburg)

Capstone Vineyards (Linden)

Crimson Lane Vineyards (Linden)

Good Spirit Farm (Round Hill)

Droumavalla Farm (Leesburg)

For years October One Vineyard has been pouring at the Leesburg and Cascade farmer’s markets. But shoppers looking for their ‘painted stripe’ logo can now find October One wines at their new Leesburg tasting room, which opened in July 2022. For years October One expanded its clientele without a physical space, calling themselves a ‘winery without walls’. The lack of a physical space wasn’t a detriment to quality wine, as twice in the past four years they won the top prize in the Loudoun Wine Awards.

But the new tasting room allows them to host events, such as their albariño and oyster pairing. This combo is famously delicious, as the wine’s salinity pairs well with the oyster’s umami flavors.

October One also prides itself as being an ambassador for the Virginia wine industry. Visitors can sample vertical flights consisting of an October One wine alongside bottles from elsewhere in the state, especially wineries from the farther reaches of the state.

If there was a contest for great neighborhoods to open a winery, Capstone Vineyards would be in the finalist round. With Crimson Lane Vineyards literally next door and Linden Vineyards down the road, this town has become something of a wine lovers mecca.

These wineries all recognized a crucial fact; this area is great for winegrowing. New owner Theo Smith put it this way; “With dirt like this, making wine is easy. All I have to do is not screw it up.”

Capstone technically opened in February 2019, but the original owners downplayed the tasting room experience to better focus on running the vineyard. In late 2022 Theo took the reins, opening the tasting room in April the following year.

Capstone currently serves 4 wines; two 2016-vintage red blends, a sparkling he made from Monticello fruit, and a CheninChardonnay blend. Look for Theo to expand his sparking program in the future.

Few Virginia wineries were as hotly anticipated as Crimson Lane, which opened in March 2023. Owners Tom and Deanna Horrify purchased the property in 2014 and started planting the following year. While many wineries are in a rush to open, Crimson chose to wait for not only the tasting room to be ready but their vines to mature. For years their social media followers tracked (perhaps impatiently) the construction of the tasting room on the upper reaches of its 1400-foot slope. While the building provides great views of the surrounding hills, the site’s main purpose is to provide frost protection for their 24-acres of vines. The largest of their three vineyards is appropriately nicknamed “Higher Power”, not only for its elevation but also proximity to St. Dominic’s Monastery.

Visitors can enjoy the tasting bar, an indoor or outdoor table, or a private room with a view.

Owners Mike and Luanne Gutermuth ‘how I started a winery’ story has a familiar ring to it. Both visited local wineries as patrons before deciding, ‘we can do this too’. As retirement neared, those discussions became more serious.

The Gutermuths looked at several wineries on the market before deciding to start from scratch, turning a former residential home off Snickersville Turnpike into a tasting room. Most of the 7.5-acre vineyard was planted in 2021, so it will be a while before they have their own estate wine. Instead, they are serving a combination of wines from both Virginia and around the world. All of them emulate styles the Gutermuths plan on producing from their (still baby) vineyard.

Fortunately, the future looks bright. Not only is their Airbnb now open for business, Nate Walsh of nearby Walsh Family Wine is their winemaker.

Droumvalla Farm lives up to its billing as a ‘multivenue estate’, hosting a winery, distillery, and event center on the same 160-acre property. While the winery uses the former Winery 32 tasting room, return visitors would be surprised by all the changes that have taken place. Not only has the building received a facelift, elsewhere on the property a barn was extensively renovated so it could host large events. Starting July, Droumavalla will also produce small batch whisky.

Winemaker Dawn Stein helps care for the farm’s 7.5 acres of vines. While she’s not opposed to making Bordeaux-style blends, she prefers to make 100% varietal wines. “I’m a varietal girl, so long as the fruit is coming in the way I want them’ she explained. “Maybe it’s a purist view, but I want the fruit to shine through”.

Author: Matthew Fitzsimmons is a blogger who has visited nearly every winery in Virginia – most of them twice. Track his progress at https://winetrailsandwanderlust.com/.

Thoughts from the Tractor Seat

The weather this season here in the Mid Atlantic region has been a bit of an anomaly. Low humidity, low rainfall, slightly lower high temperatures and cooler evenings have all added up to a very comfortable and relatively easy growing season so far. The lack of rain eases the disease pressure on our vines even though it slows the growth of the vines. Our plants are deep rooted, but are accustomed to summer rains. They have some feeder roots that will absorb water and nutrients from the top soil, but they can survive with those deep roots if the season continues like this. Any new plantings will need watering this season, but a dry spring is not the worst thing for a grape grower.

This has been a year of aging equipment and substantial repairs for me. Brakes on the forklift, the water pump on one tractor and the AC compressor on the other, welding on the one sprayer, and seals on the other, all add up to added cost and down time for critical equipment. Fortunately, between Arturo and me, we have the skills to diagnose and take on some of these repairs right here on the farm. Some of my neighbor farmers have had issues with their tractors as well so you may have seen me driving my Kubota down Route 15 a few times this spring. I know this is part of our game and every repair adds to our confidence and skill sets, but I could do without always having something in need of repair.

We have some land here that we share with other small scale farmers—‘farmettes’ if you will. This is land that is not suitable for grape growing but works well for annuals and garden plots. We started this during the pandemic and it has grown a bit since then. One of our farming teams is Marlene and Arturo, my leads here on the farm. They are growing flowers and veggies with a Latino angle and are doing well as they know their customer base. Sprouting Roots farm is here as well. They grow East Indian veggies and have developed quite a following. Legacy Farms was our fi rst tenant for this program, and their efforts in building job skills with their neuro-diverse clients are growing in more ways than one. Having all of these folks here keeps the land in production and adds to the positive spirit here on the farm.

We had our summer camp program last week for the New Ag School. Twelve students from 7th to 12th grade came to the farm each day to learn a bit about agriculture, processing, culinary skills, hospitality, leadership, entrepreneurship, and a whole lot more. We visited a few local farms to review different scales and styles of farm operations and land stewardship. They got their hands dirty with

planting, weeding, construction, vine tending, food preparation, and cleaning. We know the skills, knowledge, and work ethic these young folks gained will help them in whatever career path they eventually choose. I emphasize to them that land is the ultimate wealth to have, and knowing how to care for that land is critical. They clearly had a great time.

farmers who put their blood, sweat, and tears into making the life we all live so tasty, nourishing, and enjoyable. Cheers!

If you are interested in learning more about The New Ag School and what we offer, check out our website at newagschool.org.

About the Author: Farmer, winemaker, entrepreneur, educator, and leader, Doug Fabbioli has been accelerating the growth and quality of Virginia’s wine industry since 1997. With his wife Colleen, Doug is the owner/operator of Fabbioli Cellars in Leesburg, VA. He is the founder and director of The New Ag School, which focuses on teaching the next generation of farmers and agriculture-related leaders. No wonder they call Doug Fabbioli the Godfather of DC's Wine Country.

As I do my many jobs on the farm, I think about which of these jobs the students would gain from the most. I think the idea message I want to push home for them is that, as farmers, we need multiple skills and need to use them simultaneously. I can have the mechanic repair my tractor, but if it is in my skill set, I can save the cost of that mechanic. Besides, timing is so critical on farming projects that having equipment down can mess up more than just your timing. So always being willing to learn, pushing the limit on skills, and having a back-up plan are all great lessons that are taught through experience and commitment to being better.

The most important lessons I’ve learned and try to pass on are these: Tend to the land so it stays productive and maintained for generations to come. Take care of your equipment so you can tend to the land. Tend to the quality of your crop, whether it is wine, veggies, fruits, or other food. Tend to your guests because they are the ones that can keep you going. Sales of your crop are critical to the success of the farm. Enjoy doing what you do.

This life is not for everybody. I get so proud when I see folks farming after learning from us. We need to keep this going—for us and for others! Raise a glass of great Virginia wine to all of the

When Old Guys Go on Golf Trips...

I do enjoy writing destination pieces. I love experiencing someone else’s culture and exploring the different beers that they enjoy. The destination does not have to be exotic. Trust me, this one isn’t. And it doesn’t have to be outside of the country either. This place may sometimes feel like it is, but it isn’t. The world of craft beer can be explored without traveling very far. So where am I writing about? Wild, wonderful West Virginia.

I received an email a couple of months ago. A gathering of a bunch of 1980s relics, such as myself, who graduated from West Virginia University was being planned. My Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity brothers were having an alumni golf outing in Morgantown, WV, the home of WVU. A handful of guys from my era had been hosting this event for 40 years, rotating it to different locations around the country. I started playing golf, or at least started trying to play golf, about nine years ago. And this was the first time my schedule allowed me to attend. Plus, it was going to be in the town of our college shenanigans. We have a lot of history there.

I got there on Friday around 2 pm. My buddy Dave had texted me that he was already there. We met at the hotel and headed to a nearby local sports bar called Keglers. The nostalgia of being back at WVU was upon us. A sort of college fever if you will. We sit at the upstairs bar and are greeted by Lindsey, a very sweet bartender.

Dave orders a Guinness. I look at him.

“What?” He says.

“Nothing” I reply.

“I like Guinness.” He retorts.

“So do I.” I state. Dave then says that he feels like I am judging him. I laugh. “That’s only because I am”.

“So, what are you getting, Mr. Fancy Beer Writer?” The smack talking has already started. And we don’t even tee off until the next morning. It would last throughout the weekend and is all part of being old friends.

“I’m going to find out what local beers they have.” I asked Lindsey. She

tells me that she likes the Halleck Pale Ale. I ordered it.

It’s an American Pale Ale brewed in Morgantown by Chestnut Brew Works. It’s smooth with hints of citrus, typical of American Pale Ales. You get a nutty maltiness and a delightful hit of hops that’s not overly bitter. It’s a very good beer.

After a couple of beers, I figured it was time for a bourbon. I perused their selection and spotted Woodford Reserve. I ordered it on the rocks. Lindsey informs me that it is now happy hour. I ask if Woodford is on happy hour.

“It is.” She replied. “It’s $4.00.”

“$4.00?” I am in shock. “It’s only $4.00?”

“Yep.” She says with a smile.

I handed it back to her and asked her to make it a double. I then texted my wife to inform her that we are moving here. She texted back to inform me that we are not. She doesn’t care how cheap the good whiskey is.

Dave and I headed back to the hotel lobby bar for happy hour. A few of the guys are already there. The greeting is huge. Some of us had not seen each other in decades. I saw another craft beer on tap at the lobby bar, Hoos Your Daddy. This beer is brewed by Screech Owl Brewing in Bruceton Mills, WV. It’s an American Indian Pale Ale. It’s hazy in color and fruity on the nose with a bit of a lemon aroma. The first taste is a blast of hoppy lemony flavor. But it’s a good blast. The hops are present, but not overpowering. It is malty as well. It’s a well-balanced beer. Something not always found in an American IPA.

That evening we headed back to Keglers for the first official gathering of the weekend. Another huge greeting. It turns into a great night. The joy of seeing each other is palpable. A bunch of guys in their 60s acting like they’re in their 20s. It was like we were back in college again.

The next morning, we headed out to the country club. Our group is set to tee off third, which means that most of the other groups will be there to heckle us when we do. It’s like we are all back in the fraternity house

“Tonight, we’re going to party like it’s almost our bedtime.”

Tim’s Whiskey and Cigar Recommendations

again. The harassing is endless and ruthless. I decided to not let it bother me. I walk up to the tee while these men, who are supposedly my good friends, cheer and jeer. I pick a target. Line up my shot. And send the ball flying at a 90 degrees right angle and into the parking lot. It just misses Dave’s car. I turn around and bow to thunderous applause. The only way to get through the day is to own any terrible shots.

That evening, we gathered at a sports bar known as Mountain Mama’s. A few of the guys came up and asked me what I’m getting. Word has spread that I write this column. I ordered another American IPA, Bewildered Hippie from Stumpton Ales Micro Brewery in Davis, WV. I got pineapple from this one, with citrus. It’s smooth and a little piney as well. It’s delightful.

I realized that I hadn’t seen any craft lagers on tap at either bar. I asked the bartender if they had one. She says they do not and hands me the beer list. I immediately smiled. Sitting right in the middle of their craft beer list, 16 Shots In Munich, a German Pilsner. A pilsner is a lager. I decided not to broach the subject and just ordered the beer. It’s made by Weathered Ground Brewery in Cool Ridge, WV. It’s a true pilsner with a clean taste and that lightly spiced crisp bite of hops at the end. I enjoyed every drop.

One thing you realize as you get older is that the greatest measure of a friendship is time apart. If you don’t see someone for years, or even decades, and you immediately pick up right where you left off, that is true friendship. This is what all of us experienced. The golf was fun. The beer was fun. The whiskey at an amazing price was fun. But the rekindling of old friendships was the greatest experience. It was like we had all seen each other last week. When that happens, you know that you are truly amongst brothers.

About the Author: Timothy Long is an educator, writer, consultant, and experienced restaurant operator. Email: tlong@belmarinnovations.com. Instagram and Twitter: @wvutimmy. Blog: What is that fly doing in my soup? http://whatflyinmysoup.com

Woodford Reserve Bourbon

Later Saturday evening, many of us gather in the hotel lobby bar. My buddy Jeff had brought a 1.5-liter bottle of Woodford Reserve and placed it on a table in the lounge area. I’m amazed at how many of the guys run to the bar to get glasses. It seems that Woodford has become the fraternity drink. I, of course, join them. I don’t even want to think about the rot gut alcohol that would have been on that table in our college days.

One of my favorites, Woodford Reserve is comprised of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malt and matures for six years. The nose is creamy with notes of honey and spice. It’s thick and full on the palate with notes of espresso beans and vanilla. The finish brings cereal to mind. A prefect whiskey to end a perfect weekend.

Per Domo Reserve Champagne 10th Anniversary

A great summer cigar to go with a great summer pilsner, lager, or bourbon. Or all three if you are a slow smoker. This marvelous mild to medium cigar starts off with cocoa and citrus notes. Some earthy notes come through as you get halfway through the smoke. The body stays at about medium all the way to the end. The citrus and cocoa blend with some red pepper for a fine finish. This cigar blended perfectly with the Dawson’s Reserve Bourbon. Both are great summertime delights. Enjoy.

This cigar, and many other fine cigars, are available at John Crouch Tobacconist at 215 King St. in Old Town Alexandria. Mention this article and get 10% off the purchase of this month’s recommended cigar.

The Birds, the Bees, the Butterflies & the Bugs!

Agarden fi lled with flowers, birds, bees and butterfl ies is a sight to behold. These winged beauties add color, sound and motion to our gardens. Plus, they help maximize a garden’s productivity by pollinating plants and managing plant- damaging pests.

But what about those unwanted visitors to the garden? The aphids, mites and cabbage worms that feed upon our plants or the mosquitoes that feed upon us. There are ways to have a beautiful garden and at the same time enjoy the outdoors when we work with nature to manage our landscape.

Add a birdbath, a few birdhouses and plants for the birds. They’ll repay you by eating many of the insects that feed upon your plants. Include seed-bearing plants like coneflowers, rudbeckias and cosmos as well as berry plants like juneberry, dogwood and fi rethorn. Add an evergreen and a few trees for shelter and nesting, if space allows.

Include a hummingbird feeder and a few of their favorite flowers like columbine, salvia, penstemon, and phlox. Then watch as these fast flyers feed upon aphids, mites and mosquitoes in between sips of nectar.

While watching the birds, bees and butterfl ies, examine your plants for garden pests. Catching insects early may mean the difference between a successful harvest and disappointment. Before reaching for the pesticides and destroying their food source, attract the good guys and manage

unwanted pests with a few of these eco-friendly strategies.

Tolerate a bit of damage and wait for the birds, lady beetles, praying mantis and other beneficial insects to move in and eat the bad bugs in the garden. Use barriers like row covers to keep cabbage worms off your cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Sink shallow containers fi lled with beer into the soil around hostas and some of the other favorite plants of slugs and snails. These pests are attracted to the fermenting yeast, crawl inside and die.

If the bad guys persist, step up your eco-friendly control. Knock small populations of aphids and mites off plants with a strong blast of water. Apply insecticidal soap or Summit Year-Round Spray Oil if nature needs a helping hand. These organic insecticides are effective at managing pests, while gentle on the good guys when used properly.

Keep mosquito populations to a minimum. Drain water from toys, buckets or any object that can hold water and serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Change the water in birdbaths several times a week. Toss a “Mosquito Dunk” (SummitResponsibleSolutions.com) in rain barrels and water features. This organic insecticide only kills the larvae of mosquitoes, black fl ies and fungus gnats. It won’t harm bees, butterfl ies, birds, pets and people.

Evaluate your success and make needed adjustments. Write a note in next year’s calendar to watch for the return of these

pests. You’ll be ready to step in and lend nature a hand if needed.

As you begin to work in harmony with nature you will fi nd more birds, bees and butterfl ies visiting your garden. Together you can grow a beautiful and productive garden for all to enjoy.

Gardening expert Melinda Myers has written over 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening and the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook. She hosts The Great Courses

“How to Grow Anything: Food Gardening For Everyone” DVD set and the nationally syn dicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio segments. Myers is also a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Summit for her expertise to write this article. Myers’ website is www.melindamyers.com.

Feet in Five Easy Steps

Summer hits and we immediately toss off our boots and pull out our flip-flops. Undoubtedly we do this out of relief that warm air has arrived and because our feet need a break from winter’s confi ning shoes. But, most of the time, we really do not take note of the condition of our neglected winter feet. For many of us, it simply means a trip to the local spa for a pedicure followed by weekly or bi-weekly visits to keep them looking good. For me, the idea of a $60 pedicure makes me cringe. Multiply that by several trips a month … I have better things to spend my money on. It really is not that hard to take care of your feet and keep them looking fabulous - all at a fraction of the cost.

#1 Uncover and Observe.

Slip off your shoes and take note of the condition of your feet from the winter. I mean really take a look at them. I most notice my feet while doing yoga. For some reason, this is when I get up close and personal with my feet and take notice of their condition. I notice all the calluses that have built up, the rough skin on my heels, and the un-groomed toenails.

#2 Peel Back the Layers.

Now it is time to get rid of the rough build up from winter. Invest in a good foot file. Most foot files dull out over time; most notably pumice stones wear out very quickly. While you might have to spend a little more money for a really good one, it should last forever if taken care of properly. The best are those made of crushed diamonds. Sounds decadent, but if you think about it, diamonds do not wear out and they can be sharp enough to cut glass. Do not waste your money on foot sugar and/or salt scrubs. Unfortunately, they are not strong enough to cut through rough calluses that build up on the feet. They are better for maintaining healthy feet once they are in tip top shape.

#3 Soften and Peel Again

Once the feet are rid of the initial layer of winter build up, soak your feet in a warm Dead Sea salt bath. Dead Sea salts are known for their softening power because they lift away dead skin. Soak for at least 15 minutes to give your feet an opportunity to absorb the benefits of the Dead Sea salts. Immediately after the footbath, scrub your feet again with the foot file to peel away any additional dead skin and rough calluses. Your softened feet from the footbath will make this process easier and ensure the best results.

#4 Groom.

While your feet are tender from the soak, this is also a good time to groom your toenails. Push back your cuticles. Trim away hangnails. Cut your toenails to an acceptable length. Shorter nails are much nicer looking than long toenails and it eliminates opportunities for bacteria to hibernate under there.

#5 Make them Gorgeous.

With calluses eliminated, softer skin and groomed toenails, your feet are ready to get dressed up. Pick a nail polish that best flatters your personality and/or your wardrobe. On a recent beach trip with 10 women, I observed that reds, dark brown/black, and pinks appear to be popular. Dark colors such as chocolate, black or navy are great compliments to black shoes. If you tend to wear more black on your feet, these colors may help to make your toes blend in better. Pink and nudes blend in nicely with most skin tones and allow for the most diversity in wardrobes. Because they are so neutral, they tend to be the most versatile. And, they look light and airy for the summer months. Reds and other bright colors make more of a statement. If you have big feet like I do, you may want to avoid colors that draw more attention to your feet. That is my personal preference.ly pedicures.

the barbell lunge

Welcome to another edition of From the Trainer. July’s exercise of the month is the Barbell Lunge. This particular exercise challenges your balance, core, and leg strength. The starting position is shown in Figure 1.

The barbell will rest on the upper back as you take a long stride forward. Lower your body toward the floor by bending your front knee and hip to about 90 degrees. As this happens, shift your body weight to the front leg (Figure 2). Avoid leaning forward at the waist but make sure your knee stays over the toes and aligned with the front foot. Without pausing at the bottom, push forcefully up and backward. Body weight will then shift back to the “trail leg” to bring you back to start position. Try at least 10 reps on each leg.

Variations to this lunge include alternating legs on each repetition or stepping backward to perform a reverse lunge. If you choose to reverse the lunge,

make sure you shift your weight to the front leg first, and then step backward. Keep body weight on the front leg while the trail leg is used for balance. Another variation is the walking lunge in which you keep moving forward with each lunge. You could also hold a pair of dumbbells at your sides instead of using the barbell on the upper back.

Either way you choose to do the lunge, it will provide the challenge and intensity you’ve been looking for! Until next month…..enjoy the Barbell Lunge.

About the Author: Unverzagt holds a 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.

Keeping Up the Motivation

Now that summer is in full swing and the days are getting hotter and longer it’s easier to fi nd excuses not to exercise. For some people it’s an everyday battle just to get up and get to the gym, although I’m sure most of us fi nd that once we walk through the door of the club it’s not all that bad. By the time the workout is done, you feel like a different person than the one that rolled out of bed just over an hour ago. Weather it’s working out before the sun comes up or taking a 20 minute power walk to break up the busy work day, here a few easy ways to keep up the good work this summer.

Workout Early In the Morning - If you get up and go early you will increase your chances of getting in a good workout. At the beginning of the day, we have the least amount of excuses for skipping a workout. If getting up early enough is the problem, try limiting your snooze to five minutes. This way, you won’t fall back into a deep sleep. Once you get into a routine of getting up and out early it will get easier. Not to mention you will get to work feeling more focused and energized.

Lift Before You Run - Instead of sitting on a cardio machine and sweating your calories away try doing a quick toning routine pre-cardio. Strength training is something that demands a little bit more attention and skill than running on an elliptical so it works best to do these exercises fi rst.

Finish Strong and Increase Your Metabolism - After your toning routine, jump on the treadmill for a high intensity cardio workout to fi nish up. High intensity exercise causes your metabolism to stay elevated several hours post workout. So if you’ve burned 300 calories during your session, you will burn another 50 or so calories while you shower and get dressed.

Power Walk to Beat the Midday Slump - As little as 20 minutes of low intensity cardio such as walking, can give you a 20 percent increase in energy. Many people seem to think that exercise will make you tired. In fact, the opposite is true. Certain chemicals in the brain are activated during exercise that can give you that boost you need to get through the rest of the afternoon.

Take the Steps Double Time - Next time you opt to take the stairs (which should be every time) take them two at a time (unless you are wearing heels). This quick burst of power will activate muscles in your legs that usually remain inactive when you are sitting at your desk. Fast twitch muscles are used for quick burst of speed; these muscles burn more calories than slow twitch muscles.

Set Up Your Gear - You can have all the good intentions in the world to make it to the gym and workout but if you forget a vital piece of equipment, such as gym sneakers, you spoil your plans completely. Lay your gym clothes out the night before. If you are a morning exerciser, put everything out so it’s ready as soon as you roll out of bed. If you prefer to work out after work, pack your gym bag and leave it next to your workbag.

Embrace a Senior Pet, Bond for Life

“If you touch me, you'll understand what happiness is,” sings Grizabella, the aging feline in Andrew Lloyd Weber’s musical, Cats. I recall this lyric often when stroking an elderly cat at King Street Cats (KSC), the no-kill shelter where I volunteer weekly. Like Grizabella, the senior residents at KSC once had their days in the sun. Yet now, they are sometimes overlooked by prospective owners in favor of younger and “more adorable” adoptees.

Many shelters are filled with aging cats and dogs. Yet, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, senior dogs have a 25% adoption rate, compared to a 60% rate for younger dogs and puppies. “Older shelter cats are just as loving, loyal, and delightful as young ones, but typically the last to be adopted,” ASPCA President Matthew Bershadker explains, “and result in senior cats being among the fi rst shelter animals to be euthanized.”

So why the hesitation to

adopt older pets? While they may require special care because of their aging needs, the following are some misconceptions that prevent senior animals from being placed in a forever, loving home.

Myth #1

They are in a shelter because they are undesirable, and nobody wants them. FALSE. Often an animal has been brought to a shelter because of conditions that have nothing to do with health, personality, or appeal. A new baby in the family, change in marital status, a move to a place that won’t accept pets—these are only a few reasons. The most heartbreaking cause is when the owner passed away or had to give up the pet due to a transition to assisted living. Such cases occur at our shelter; the poor creatures are afraid, lonely, and unable to understand why they are no longer with their human companion(s). Pets are not immune to grief.

Myth #2

Their age means more special

needs and they require more care and attention. Not necessarily! Shelter animals are usually housetrained before being released to a new home. Many senior pets’ bladders are fully developed and require fewer trips to relieve themselves. Also, mature dogs and cats are calmer and content to sleep and enjoy a quiet life, unlike rambunctious puppies and kittens who require constant supervision and assume every item in your home to be a toy. Older dogs also are much less likely to engage in destructive chewing since they are no longer teething. Rarely is there a need to “petproof” a home for a senior who already learned the rules from a previous owner.

Myth #3

Older animals are not as charming or entertaining as cute baby pets. Hardly true! In fact, a calmer disposition is the remarkable charm of an older pet, who may be a perfect fit for not only an elderly person who prefers a less energetic routine but also for a family with young children and other pets. Adult animal personalities

are already developed so you know what you are getting. Since shelter care givers interact daily with their residents, they can carefully match you up with the right dog or cat for your lifestyle— active or laid back.

Myth #4

Old dogs can’t be taught new tricks. Oh, yeah? Many senior dogs already know how to walk on a leash, ride in a car, fetch, and understand basic commands such as “sit” or “stay”. Older dogs also have a much longer attention span than puppies and can be easier to teach. “An older dog is more receptive to learning new commands,” according to Kyle Johansen, a cofounder of How I Met My Dog™, a website that matches up potential adopters with shelter dogs. “Older dogs with prior training can be quicker to pick up on new command cues. With the solid bond you two share, there will be more concentration from your dog towards each one of your actions. This natural awareness will make your new dog much more

receptive to learning new commands.”

Myth # 5

They have more health issues. Not always. Shelter personnel already know the animal’s medical condition and requirements, if any, for medicines or prescribed nutrition. This information will help to avoid unnecessary or frequent trips to the vet. A guessing game is not necessary to discover what food, treats, or exercise they prefer.

Myth #6

They have a shorter life expectancy. Maybe, but. Advances in animal nutrition and medicines have made it possible for older pets to have longer, healthier lives. While a younger pet may have more years ahead than an older one, youth is no guarantee that a kitten or puppy will not have a genetic disorder (such as a weak heart) or develop a disease while still young. Many dogs live well into their early teens and cats even survive into their 20s. An eight-year-old adoptee, when provided with a healthy

POINTS ON PETS | FROM PAGE 42

diet and medical visits, may still have many years to share with a human friend. Even if an aging pet does not live long after adoption, its owner will be repaid with utmost loyalty and gratitude for providing a comfortable home environment at the end of life.

So, all assumptions aside, this is the truth. In a traditional shelter environment, the older the animal, the smaller the likelihood of leaving the shelter alive.

“They have had years to perfect the art of loving a human unconditionally, and most do not get a second chance to fi nd a new home,” states Young at Heart, a haven for senior pets. When you adopt an older dog or cat, you have saved a precious life, and the bond between the two of you will be profound and lasting. And then you will know what happiness is.

About the Author: Carolyn Cockroft has volunteered at King Street Cats for more than 11 years. Her two senior cats, Marigold and Butterbean, still have lots of energy and relish their superior status at their home in Woodbridge.

Selected Metro DC Animal Shelters and Rescues

Animal Welfare League of Alexandria alexandriaanimals.org/

Animal Welfare League of Arlington www.awla.org

Fairfax County Animal Shelter

www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter

Friends of Rabbits and House Rabbit Sanctuary www.friendsofrabbits.org/

King Street Cats www.kingstreetcats.org/

Operation Paws for Homes, Inc. ophrescue.org/

Rikki’s Refuge Animal Sanctuary www.rikkisrefuge.org

PETS OF THE MONTH

4101 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 703-746-4774

alexandriaanimals.org

Mon-Fri, 1-8 pm Closed Wed Sat & Sun, 12-5 pm

Odin

Odin is a 7-year-old male dog whose personality far outweighs his 9 pounds. We like to think of Odin as the old man in the movie “Up,” a little grumpy at rst, but deep down a really good guy. Odin’s initially unwelcoming attitude is due to being a little unsure and scared with new people and situations. Once he’s comfortable with you, he wants nothing more than to sit on your lap, get snuggles and kisses, and be showered with love. Odin would make someone a loyal and loving companion and protector.

Pepper

Not into social gatherings at all? Pepper is your girl! This senior-aged black kitty much prefers her quiet time. Sadly, she’s a little stressed and scared at the shelter. Her previous owner reports that she was active and social at her former home. We think when she gets back into a quiet and comfy home, she will blossom back into that lovely kitty once again. Pepper does perk up when she sees her favorite treats! If you’re looking for a companion to keep you company, Pepper would be a wonderful addition to your family.

Senorita, on the other hand, is a social butter y and hostess with the mostess! She’s not only the life of the party - she IS the paw-ty! Senorita is a 1-year-old dog who loves to play with toys and other friendly, active dogs. She would make an excellent partner for all of this season’s outdoor adventures - whether that’s hiking, running, or camping. Senorita loves to entertain and show off her tricks. She knows how to sit and will take treats gently. Senorita is ready to be your plus one to all of this summer’s pool parties!

Seniorita

Getting a Charge Out of Fishing

Bass boaters are opening their hatches and their wallets to lithium batteries, despite their high cost and potential for fi res. To be clear, lithium battery technology and safety have been improved and they don’t combust like they used to, however, if they are involved in a fi re, they are nearly impossible to extinguish. Proper charging and preventing lithium batteries from being bounced around are required to prevent lithium issues. Anglers are putting those risks aside because of the space and weight reduction they offer. One lithium can replace 3 standard batteries, reducing the weight by 2/3. Accessories like livewells and electronics can be powered with a long lasting lithium. Due to the nature of lithium, giving no notice that they are empty, many have opted for a redundant battery set ups. Two 36 volt lithiums for trolling motors and maybe two more for accessories. But a standard lead acid battery is required to start a bass boat outboard.

There are not many studies about boat handling or performance affected by the drop in weight from lithium. Anglers report differences in hole shot, turning, and top speeds. Hit and miss modifications to jack plates and propellers are needed to restore performance. Bass boat engineers plan for the weight of conventional batteries in their boat design and there’s no boating industry news about adaptations for lithium.

A big downside to lithium batteries is they can’t handle being bounced around, which is what boat batteries typically go through. Even regular lead acid batteries are subject to premature failure being bumped around. But lithium really loses year round anglers as they don’t charge or perform well in cold weather.

Adding to lithium concerns is lithium confusion, with many manufacturers making specification claims that most don’t quite understand. Special charging systems need to be purchased. Modifications are necessary to protect fishing and boating electronics. Power surges and lightning strikes could be extremely hazardous and impossible to prevent.

Many bass boaters have been relying on Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries for decades. In addition to providing deep-cycle power, AGM batteries are quick to charge and hold up to being bounced around in rough water.

Standard lead acid batteries don’t last as long due to leaking, but AGM technology can prevent leaks from developing, which can increase the lifespan. Absorbent glass mats wick battery acid to the plates, which means that there is no reservoir of acid that can be spilt if the casing gets cracked. AGM batteries are totally sealed.

Pennsylvania battery maker East Penn manufactures Marine Master AGM batteries. Reliable and maintenance free, East Penn’s DEKA brand is sealed to enhance performance and longevity. In fact, you could say DEKA AGM batteries last forever, well, they are virtually 100% recyclable. East Penn’s sophisticated recycling facility processes approximately 30,000 batteries per day. Everything is recycled at the East Penn plant. Lead, over 200 million pounds, is recycled into new batteries, battery clamps and cables. Eleven million pounds of plastic goes directly to the molding division. East Penn’s acid reclamation plant was the fi rst of its kind in the battery industry. Millions of gallons of battery acid are converted into a fertilizer that serves the local farming community. That’s as clean as it can get.

But lithium presents several issues, from collection to recycling. Lithium falls short of the number of recycling facilities that accept lead batteries. To further impact the environment, the level of virgin raw material mining needed for lithium manufacture presents significant environmental and social issues which is compounded by the types of materials used during manufacture.

Lithium batteries are not as easily recycled as more conventional lead-acid batteries. Most lithium batteries weren’t designed for safe and efficient disassembly and taking these batteries apart can generate toxic dust that can contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases and can pollute the soil. Damaged batteries or those that experienced

thermal runaway release extremely poisonous or flammable gasses such as hydrogen, sulfur dioxide, and hydrogen flouride.

But saving the lithium is not effective as it is lost as slag. Other metals in lithium batteries, such as aluminum, copper and iron must be removed. Coprecipitation of transition metal ions due to their similar properties, makes the metal extraction process complex and expensive.

Unlike lead battery recycling, there’s no single process for recycling lithium-ion batteries that combines low environmental impact and energy cost with high metal yields. It’s a series of processes with tradeoffs to reduce the environmental impact of lithium battery disposal, never reaching net-zero.

The recent surge in the use of some type of lithium bass boat batteries is generally based on weight and longevity and sounds good until all elements are weighed. But costing more than 4 times AGM batteries, emerging and uncertain recycling, along with the potential for uncontrolled fi res, gives many bass boaters reasons to stay with proven AGM technology.

Author Capt. Steve Chaconas is a Potomac bass fi shing guide & freelance writer. Potomac River reports: nationalbass.com. YouTube channel NationalBassGuide.

Potomac River Bassing in JULY

Time to hit the mats with heavy weights and frogs. Both require 60 pound test Gamma Torque braid. Look for thick grass beds close to deeper water.

For the frog, tie a double Palomar knot and work over thick grass. This bait is also effective over cover without grass. When the bass explodes on it, set the hook upward and horse them out of the thick cover. White frogs make it easier to see the strike.

Punching mats involves 1-1.5 ounce tungsten weights pegged with a stopper. A stout hook is needed to prevent bending. Put a small soft plastic on it. Pitch to thick mats and shake until it drops through. Fish will bite the bait and swim off, load the rod, and just pull.

In areas around grass, swim and bladed jigs in craw patterns can come through grass to produce bites. For this, spool with 14-16 pound test Gamma Edge fluorocarbon line. Snap free from grass.

The Gift of Freedom

How did we get to July so soon? Holy cow. Feels like just yesterday we were putting away the Christmas tree and making New Year’s resolutions. I’d like to say time flies when you’re having fun, but I haven’t been having a lot of fun recently. That, however, is about to change.

We have a crazy maker in our family. Maybe you have one too. My particular crazy maker doesn’t think he has a problem—everyone else has the problem. Even though his life is at ground zero all due to his own decisions (poor ones), everyone else is to blame. Recently he has been lashing out in horrendous, unacceptable ways.

When you’re on the outside looking in, crazy is easy to spot. When you’ve been embroiled in the dysfunction and spend your days just dodging bombs, it’s more difficult to see. You’re just busy trying to survive.

And, that is not freedom.

Freedom takes many forms, including the freedom to be happy— even if it means releasing toxic family members and/or friends.

Anyone above the age of 12 knows that life can be hard and isn’t always fair, but most of us do have some options. As we get older, our options increase. We get to make

decisions for ourselves. Regardless of our situation—rough childhood, divorced parents, absent parent, abusive parent, etc., we can do things to move forward instead of living in the past. We can get help, live in the present, and make our way in the world as best we can. With the proper help, we can free ourselves from past hurt and pain— even trauma.

We get this one precious life and get to choose how to live it.

So, this July, I’m giving my crazy maker a gift—the gift of freedom. I am freeing him to fly out into the world and hopefully carve out a life for himself. With that release, I’m granting myself freedom as well. Freedom from toxicity. Freedom from dysfunction.

Thanks to all those who serve, we have the right to choose, and I choose happiness, peace, and joy. I am beyond grateful to wake up in a world where others have sacrificed in order that I may enjoy freedoms that many don’t, and I hope I never take those for granted. Think about it for a minute—thanks to those who serve, we have liberties and freedoms that many in this world only dream of such as the ability to pursue an education, seek the vocation of our choosing, marry (or not marry) a partner for love vs a dowry, pray to the deity of our religious beliefs, vote for leaders who best reflect our principles. The

list goes on, and yet sometimes I do take these liberties for granted. While I can never repay the countless people who have given their lives and those who continue to serve so that I can live my life free of oppression, I can honor them by wrapping it around me like a warm blanket and not squandering it.

We have independence as a country, but also as individuals. With that freedom and independence comes a certain responsibility—a responsibility to understand that freedom is a privilege not to be taken for granted. Nothing in our lives should be taken for granted. Life is precious and it can go up in smoke in the blink of an eye.

Life—and summer—are far too short not to be enjoyed. The moments are fleeting, and it is up to us to find the joyful ones and cling to them. Make memories with the ones you love, and hold them close to your heart. Stop chasing after people and chase fireflies instead. Put your energy into people who value you as another human being walking the planet with them vs what you can do for them.

It is hard to let go sometimes, but you have to ask yourself if it’s harder to hold on. In my case, the answer is yes. A friend of mine recently told me, “Sunk costs are sunk costs.” It took a minute for that to sink in. Pun intended. I

think sometimes we get so mired down in the emotional investment we’ve made with people that it feels hard to walk away. You’ve spent time, possibly money, and given of yourself in the hopes of ‘fixing’ that person or healing the relationship. Sometimes the best thing you can do is cut your losses and move on. As the late, great Kenny Rogers said, “You got to know when to hold ‘em, know when to fold ‘em, know when to walk away, and know when to run.” Freedom holds different meanings for each of us.

Whatever freedom means to you, I hope you hold it close to your heart, safeguard it, and protect it because it hasn’t come without a price.

You are free to choose, so choose wisely. While you’re at it, grab a blanket, plop down for a fireworks show, and soak in the beauty of a summer night. That is a freedom I hope to enjoy sooner rather than later. Sometimes the best gift we can give someone is independence and the freedom to fly away.

About the Author: Lori is a local writer, painter and pet lover who loves to share her experiences and expertise with our readers. She has been penning a column for the OTC for over 20 years. Please follow Lori online on Medium for more missives like this.

Strolling Around the Harbor

Man oh man…did I ever struggle with deciding on what the subject matter of this month’s column was going to be. Not that there is a lack of things to highlight in the Harbor, especially this time of year as summer is getting into full swing – concerts, movies, etc. Thankfully, my pal Bob suggested that we take a Sunday drive over the bridge to see if I could garner some inspiration. Well…it worked!

It was a gorgeous sunny day and there was a bit of a breeze coming off of the water so we spent the afternoon just walking around and stopping into some old favorites along the way. After parking at the Fleet Street garage, we headed to Waterfront Street and landed at Bond 45 for a beverage and some nourishment to fuel up for the rest of the day. As always, the cocktails were great and the meatballs never disappoint. The best part of this visit is always the staff. John Alfy Edward is a great host. I always run into people that still live in my former condo building so it’s great to catch up with them.

Leaving Bond we took a leisurely stroll over to the Gaylord along the waterfront path to see how things were going with the newly remodeled Old Hickory Steakhouse in the hopes that our longtime friend, Joseph, would be behind the bar. Our wish came true. He has been with the Gaylord staff almost since the fi rst day they opened. Old Hickory has always been a special place for dinner but with the new model in place they are open for breakfast and lunch daily as well as brunch on Sundays. After seeing Joe, we stopped by the Belvedere Lobby

Bar to see Carlos. I love this space. It is a perfect location for a ton of people watching and the atrium is always beautiful.

The next leg of our trip took us from the Gaylord up Fleet Street to American Way and down to the newest addition to the Harbor dining scene on the waterfront, Fogo de Chao. Even though I’ve been down American Way hundreds of times, I am still in awe of the amazing sculptures on display between Fleet and Waterfront Streets. Arriving at Fogo (McLoone’s Pier House was in this space for several years) on National Plaza, we treated ourselves to a couple of Caipirinhas. This South American cocktail is very unique and very tasty – Silver Cachaca, limes and cane sugar.

A Sunday afternoon in the Harbor wouldn’t be complete without a walk out on the pier to the Capital Wheel and the Flight Deck.

This is an amazing place to watch the sunset since it sits right on the water. After taking in the view and doing some boat watching, we decided to call it a day and headed back to the garage with one last stop on the Plaza - Maw Maw Miller’s Kettle Corn.

My girl Sarah wasn’t there but her cool husband Nick was manning the popper. If you are a caramel corn fan, this is the place to get your fi x. Their signature Sweet and Salty is the best!

The Movies are Back!

The Sunday night movie was just getting underway and we thought about sticking around until we saw that is was Jurassic World Dominion – neither of us are fans. However, the plaza was filling up with families getting all settled in with blankets and beach chairs.

It really was a pleasant late afternoon/early evening and I am looking forward to doing this more often. I hope you all treat yourself to a day like we had as well.

Be sure to check out the summer movie schedule below and mark your calendar for at least one this season. You won't regret it!

Featuring date night movies on Thursdays and family night movies on Sundays through September.

Every Thursday (“date night”) at 7 p.m. and Sunday (“family night”) at 6 p.m. guests are invited to gather in front of the Plaza Screen on the waterfront to watch recent releases and classic films. Movie goers are encouraged to bring chairs and order take-out from one of the many restaurants right around the plaza. Free and subject to weather.

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