Summer is here in full force - I am writing this two days after the Summer Solstice and the temperature is 99 and feels like 108. For the next two weeks the coolest it is predicted is 91. It is going to be a hot one! Time to slow down and stay hydrated.
I don’t usually talk about things that “bug me” in these notes but I just want to put this Public Service Announcement out there. I am a dog lover and there are two things that I have been observing as I smoke my cigar and sip my beverage on the front stoop of my place on South Washington Street here in Old Town. First off, be aware that if you can’t walk on the pavement with bare feet, your dog shouldn’t either! The pavement is going to be too hot for your dog’s paws. Take Fido/Fifi to a dog park or grassy area. Secondly, when you do walk them on the sidewalks, please don't let them relieve themselves on flower containers or planters of small foliage. In this town there is always a tree nearby. Some of these planters are semi-porous and urine leaches into the soil and the plant dies. The pots in front of our place are living, sorta, proof. End of rant and on to what is inside this issue…
This month we dedicated the space where our Business and Personality profiles normally appear to a special feature celebrating our fair city’s 275th Birthday - "We've come a long way baby". It is hard to believe that I have lived here for 47 of those years! Read a brief history of Alexandria in this space. In sticking with the historical vent, Sarah Becker highlights the many historical events that have happened in the USA starting with the 4th of July in A Bit of History
Lenny Campello introduces us to artist Shiri Achu in Gallery Beat. Shiri started painting when she was 9 years old. Lenny describes her work as a “Powerful African Art in a marriage of contemporary skills”. Staying with the arts and entertainment, Ron Powers brings back one of Johnny Cash’s big hits - Big River – in High Notes. Those of us who are of a certain age can probably remember the lyrics. Rounding out this section, Miriam Kramer reviews Jeff Lindsey’s Darkly Dreaming Dexter in Last Word
The heat is not just limited to humans. In From the Bay, Lauren Hines-Acosta writes about the underwater heat waves which affect our crab population. Jumping into the bay on a very hot day, we have all felt the water getting colder as we descend further down. These thermoclines affect the sea creatures as well.
Julie Reardon gives you an alternative to spending the 4th in the city among other things to do in the mountains this month in her To Blue Ridge column.
For this month’s Road Trip we checked out a couple of beaches…the Chesapeake Bay beaches. They might not be Atlantic Ocean caliber but if you need a beach fi x in the middle of the week these are just an hour away - Breezy Point and the Twin Beaches of North Beach and Chesapeake Beach.
I had to laugh at fi rst when I saw what Alex Brittel wrote in Caribbean Connection but changed my tune after I got to thinking about what a major hit the move Barbie is. It seems that the Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas has temporarily transformed in to a “Barbie World” and it isn’t just for kids!
In Dining Out, we visited the new Frankie's Kitchen & Cocktail Bar. Located in the former Faccia Luna space in the 800 block of South Washington, this place is a breath of fresh air.
Tim Long pontificates the age-old question “Are shots of whiskey on a golf course a good idea?” in Let’s Get Crafty. I’m guessing we all know that answer right out of the box.
In Exploring Virginia Wines Doug Fabbioli discusses "Terroir" in relation to Virginia Wines and Matt Fitzsimmons hits up on “Shakespeare in the Ruins” at Barboursville Vineyards in Grapevine. July is a great time to visit Virginia Wineries so check out the Pearmund Winery ad on our inside back cover.
Nicole Flanagan discusses the state of obesity in this country in Fitness as Ryan Unverzagt highlights the Weight Plate Horseshoe exercise in From the Trainer. Genevieve LeFranc has some tips on what to pack in your beach bag to ensure you have everything you need before you hit the sand in First Blush
Go Fish’s Steve Chaconas talks about the effect the heat has on summer time fishing tournaments and Lori Welch reminds us that “Freedom Isn’t Free” in this month’s Open Space. This, all of the above and more await you in the following pages. Enjoy the read!
Wishing you a very Happy 4th of July and don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Birthday Party on the 13th! There will be FREE cupcakes, food vendors, live music, beer and fi reworks. What else could you ask for?
Stay cool my friends.
ON THE ROAD WITH OTC
It seems like our longtime friend and Old Town Crier reader from the very beginning, Nancy D’Agostino, isn’t letting any grass grow under her feet this summer. Last month she was trapsing around San Antonio, Texas with former co-workers/pals and taking in a winery or two (see On the Road in the June issue). This month she headed north to much cooler temps in Rhode Island with other alumni of Frostburg State University - located in northern Maryland – with the June issue hand. They took the time out from their many “mini” reunion festivities to snap a shot in the historic White Horse Tavern in Newport.
Pictured here are: Terry Killen - Darnstown, MD, Nancy - Fort Washington, MD, Heidi Smigocki - Ocean City, MD and Roz Rubin - Punta Gorda, FL.
If you would like to see your photo in this space, take the OTC with you on your next adventure and take a high resolution photo or photos of you and yours checking us out and send it with information for the caption to office@oldtowncrier.com and put “On the Road” in the subject line.
WHERE IS IT?
We had a winner last month so we are on to a new adventure.
This month is probably too easy but it goes along with the summertime theme we are carrying through the next few months!
Remember, if you are the fi rst person to respond with the correct location, you will receive a $50 gift certificate to one of our amazing restaurant advertiser’s eateries.
In order to participate, you will have to Like and Follow us: Facebook @oldtowncrier and Instagram @otcregionalmag
Send a PM with your guess and we will contact the winner each month via PM to arrange for prize delivery.
Congratulations to Myla Korchevska on identifying the mural on the side wall in the courtyard of Josephine, a French brasserie and Bar located at 109 South St. Asaph Street in Old Town.
Mural Photo by Lee Moody.
This photo by Lee Moody of one of the light posts surrounding City Hall and the Fountain on King Street in the Heart of Old Town is a great way of saying Happy 248th Birthday to our Nation and Happy 275th Birthday to our fair city of Alexandria. We think it is a perfect image to grace the cover of this issue.
Local Alexandrian and amazing amateur photographer, Lee Moody, has provided several cover images for us in the last few years. She is diligent about roaming the streets of Old Town in the early hours of the morning capturing amazing sunrise images just about every day of the week.
Lee doesn’t roam alone…her 9 year-old English Lab, Taylor, accompanies her faithfully in the hopes of securing a “treat” here and there along the way. Taylor is a good sport and is always decked out on holidays. Looks like she is getting ready for some 4th of July fun and maybe one of the free cupcakes at the Alexandria Birthday party on the 13th.
ELWOOD
Sunrise on the Potomac June 25, 2024
EVENTS AROUND TOWN
Summer Events in Alexandria
This summer, enjoy an abundance of festivals, outdoor music, pub crawls and more in Alexandria - located minutes from Washington, D.C., on the scenic Potomac River and recognized by Travel + Leisure among the Best Places to Travel in 2023 and voted a Condé Nast Traveler Top 3 Best Small City in the U.S. 2023. As part of the City of Alexandria’s 275th anniversary celebrations, visitors can kick off the summer season at special events including a special 275th iteration of the Alexandria and USA Birthday Celebration in July and come August, enjoy the sights, sounds and avors of dozens of nations at the Around the World Cultural Food Festival. Plus, don’t miss summer celebrations in the Carlyle, West End and Del Ray neighborhoods. Find details on the top summer events and happenings in Alexandria below, and head to VisitAlexandria.com/Summer for more summer experiences.
13th
Alexandria and USA Birthday Celebration
6 to 9:45 p.m. (Rain date: July 14, 2024)
Admission: Free
Viewing locations throughout Old Town and central location at: Oronoco Bay Park 100 Madison Street Old Town Alexandria alexandriava.gov
The City of Alexandria celebrates its milestone 275th birthday and the USA’s 248th birthday on Saturday, July 13, with live music and a grand nale reworks display at 9:30 p.m. Experience special programming and activities at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, Canal Center plaza and Waterfront Park among ten vantage points for reworks viewing. Enjoy the big birthday experience including cupcakes, local vendors and live music. Plus, try Port City Brewing Company’s special edition ALX275 brew at Oronoco Bay Park. Photo by Visit Alexandria.
20 th
Second Annual Best of the West from 1 to 5 p.m.
Admission: Free (pre-registration recommended)
Patrick Henry Recreation Center 4653 Taney Avenue alxweba.org
Best of the West is a community event featuring West End Business Association (WEBA) members and restaurant tastings. Get to know local business owners, enjoy live music and entertainment and try some of the best food that the West End has to offer.
27th
Beats, Bites and Brews in Old Town Alexandria 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. Groove to the sounds of summer with live music performances and try a variety of summer-inspired bites from local food vendors. Enjoy craft beers and refreshing summer cocktails in our Beer Garden and explore local artisans and vendors offering a curated selection of summer goodies, from fashion nds to unique crafts.
About Alexandria, VA
Alexandria is a welcoming weekend escape on the Potomac River, minutes from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1749 and boasting the nation’s third oldest historic district, Alexandria hums with a cosmopolitan feel. Stroll Old Town Alexandria’s King Street mile to nd more than 200 independent restaurants and boutiques plus intimate historic museums and new happenings at the waterfront. Explore vibrant neighborhoods beyond Old Town, trace George Washington and the Founding Fathers’ footsteps and follow the stories of Black Americans who shaped the history of Alexandria and the United States.
Connect with us!
Web: VisitAlexandriaVA.com
Blog: Blog.VisitAlexandriaVA.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/VisitAlexandriaVA
Twitter: Twitter.com/AlexandriaVA
Instagram: Instagram.com/VisitAlexVA
What’s Happening On the 4th?
THE NATIONAL INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE
Starting at 11:45 a.m., witness the many oats, marching bands, drill teams and more on Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Street. The parade is co-hosted by the National Parks Service.
NATIONAL MALL FIREWORKS SHOW
The National Park Service will be hosting a reworks viewing and celebration at the National Mall. Observe the show from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Re ecting Pool.
FOURTH AT THE WHARF 2024
The Wharf is hosting its annual free celebration from 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm, along with a great view for reworks viewing. Make sure to arrive early, as the pier may become extremely busy.
44TH ANNUAL ‘A CAPITOL FOURTH’ CONCERT
Actor and comedian Alfonso Ribiero returns to host "A Capitol Fourth", a concert lled with famous acts in pop, hip hop, R&B and country music. The event is hosted from the West Lawn of the United States Capitol and is free and open to the public, but if you can’t make it in person, the concert will be available to watch on PBS at 8 p.m.
CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY 4TH OF JULY PARADE
The parade starts at 10:00 a.m. on Capitol Hill’s Barracks Row. This year will mark the 21st anniversary of the parade’s occurrence.
RED WHITE AND BREW ROOFTOP PARTY
See an unobstructed view of the reworks in DC while at a rooftop bar, all while supporting a good cause. All proceeds from the event will go to programs supporting the United Soldiers and Sailors of America. Join the party at 700 Pennsylvania Ave, SE Washington.
INDEPENDENCE DAY TOUR OF THOMAS JEFFERSON’S WILDLIFE TIMES
Learn fun facts about the nation’s rst two-term president while taking a walking tour of famous areas he is associated with, including Lafayette Square, the National Mall, the Tidal Basin, and more. The tour starts at 11:00 am at the George Mason Memorial.
AFROCODE DC DENIM & KICKS DAY PARTY
Enjoy a fusion of hip hop and afro beats music at Zebbie’s Garden to celebrate United States independence. The party starts at 4:00 p.m. and ends at 10:00 p.m.
SYLVAN THEATER FAMILY ACTIVITY CENTER
It's fun for the whole family: From 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., you can visit the Sylvan Theater Family Activity Area on the southeast grounds of the Washington Monument for activities and a scavenger hunt about the monuments and memorials on the National Mall. You can also complete your Independence Day Junior Ranger booklet full of familyfriendly, fun activities to earn a special Junior Ranger badge!
AN AMERICAN CELEBRATION
Enjoy the annual Independence Day celebration at George Washington's Mount Vernon home. Visitors are welcomed to visit the estate's museums, enjoy views from the mansion's piazza, and stroll through the estates four separate gardens.
This listing courtesy of Fox 5 DC.
LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS
OLD TOWN FARMERS MARKET
Market Square
301 King Street
Saturdays, 7 am – 12 Noon Year Round
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.
OLD TOWN NORTH FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
Montgomery Park
901 North Royal Street
Thursdays, 3 pm – 7 pm Year Round
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.
Interstellar In uencer (Make an Impact) On Display Through November
Admission: Free Waterfront Park 1A Prince Street visitalexandriava.com/public-art
Interstellar In uencer (Make an Impact) was unveiled late last month. It is the sixth annual temporary public art installation at Waterfront Park and will be on display until as part of the City of Alexandria’s Site See: New Views in Old Town series.
eCreated by Brooklyn-based, artist/architect duo Jason Klimoski (left) and Lesley Chang (right) of STUDIOKCA, the installation explores the impact of an asteroid that hit the earth 35 million years ago near what is now Alexandria. Interstellar In uencer uses metal, water and light to create a 1:1000 scale representation of the asteroid and the 85-kilometer wide, 1.5-kilometer-deep crater it left behind, that shaped the entire Chesapeake Bay watershed and the ow of water through its rivers and tributaries.
Happy 275th Birthday Alexandria!
It is kind of hard to believe that I have lived here for 30 of these 275 years and a lot has changed since my arrival in Old Town in 1992.
While time has taken a toll on some areas of this fair city, it has grown into one of the Nation’s top destinations for tourists while still remaining a great place to live.
While I’m not a huge history-buff, I have a great appreciation for what it took to get where we are today. In looking for some condensed information about Alexandria to pass on to you all, I sourced the following from the City of Alexandria’s website. This is just a “snippit” of the information available on their site:
“Alexandria, founded in 1749, has a fascinating history, and many of its historic buildings are still preserved today.
During its long history, Alexandria was a tobacco trading post, one of the ten busiest ports in America, a part of the District of Columbia, home to both the largest slave-trading fi rm in the country and a large free-black community, a Civil War supply center for Union troops, and a street-car suburb for Federal workers.
Alexandria was also the hometown of George Washington, Robert E. Lee, Jim Morrison and Mama Cass.
13,200 years ago to ca. 1675 CE
The shoreline of the Potomac River where Alexandria is located today has been a useful and popular spot for centuries, long before the modern community was founded. Exploring the Chesapeake Bay in 1608, John Smith sailed up the Potomac River and contacted many different people along both banks. When Smith neared this point, he met at least two groups that we now refer to as the Tauxenents and the Nacotchtanks, both part of a larger affiliation known as the Conoy chiefdom. These people made up just a small percentage of the thousands of Native Americans who inhabited the region and enjoyed its rich resources of fish and game. Familiar place names today persist as reminders of Native Americans in the area include Dogue, Pohick, Accotink and Occoquan. After Smith's visit, it would be many years before white settlement would expand into this part of tidewater Virginia. The types of artifacts discovered in Alexandria indicate that Native Americans visited the area beginning about 13,000 years ago, and historical documents suggest that they remained in the vicinity until about 1675.
area, but they desperately needed a trading place where they could gather their crops for export and could buy manufactured merchandise from abroad. To facilitate shipping, Scottish and English merchants who owned real estate at Cameron, a small hamlet four miles west of the Potomac, petitioned the Virginia General Assembly in the fall of 1748 to establish a town at West's Hunting Creek Warehouse. In the spring of 1749, this site was selected and the new town was named Alexandria in honor of the early owner of much of the land, Scotsman John Alexander. John West, Fairfax County surveyor, laid-out 60 acres (by tradition, assisted by 17-year-old George Washington), and lots were auctioned off in July 1749.
1749-1860
1669-1749
Much of present-day Alexandria was included in a 6,000-acre land grant from Sir William Berkeley, Governor of Virginia, which was awarded to Robert Howson, an English ship captain, on October 21, 1669. This land overlapped a 700-acre patent that had previously been issued to Dame Margaret Brent in 1654. The Howson tract extended along the Potomac River, from Hunting Creek on the south to the Little Falls on the north. The grant was made by authority of King Charles II in recognition of Captain Howson's bringing 120 people to live in Virginia. Less than a month later, Howson sold the land to John Alexander for 6,000 pounds of tobacco.
During the late 17th and early 18th centuries, plantations were established along both sides of the Potomac River and settlement began to spread further into northern Virginia. When Fredericksburg was founded in 1728, it was the northernmost town in Virginia but was still located in the tidewater, where tobacco production was profitable.
By 1732, Hugh West had established a tobacco warehouse on high bluffs overlooking a small but deep bay, at what is today the foot of Oronoco Street in Alexandria. Philip and John Alexander farmed much of the surrounding land and Hugh West oversaw the warehouse along with a ferry and tavern. When Fairfax County was established in 1742, many of the county's residents already lived several miles inland, away from the river and from commercial ties to the outside world. Many of them found that grains like wheat and corn could be raised more profitably than tobacco in this upland
Alexandria thrived for the next few decades. During the mid-1750s, the town was a staging area for British troops involved in the French and Indian War. English General Braddock made his headquarters in Alexandria and occupied the Carlyle House while planning his campaign against the French in 1755. In 1763, another land sale was held greatly increasing the size of the community. Twenty years later, more new land was created by filling in part of the Potomac shoreline, allowing merchants to build wharves which reached oceangoing vessels in the river’s deep water channel. Lots all over town were subdivided repeatedly by their owners who rented space to dozens of different types of skilled artisans, grocers and small merchants, tavern keepers and other tradesmen. The population included many slaves as well as free blacks who lived primarily in neighborhoods called "the Bottoms" and "Hayti."
Incorporated in 1779, Alexandria became a port of entry for foreign vessels and a major export center for flour and hemp. By the end of the 18th century, Alexandria was among the ten busiest ports in America and had been designated an official port of entry, allowing foreign shipping to land and unload without registering somewhere else fi rst. Its bustling harbor teemed with brigs, schooners, and ships of the line, which traversed the high seas and engaged in international and coastal trade. The streets were lined with substantial brick houses and the "sound of the hammer and trowel were at work everywhere." Alexandria's political, social, and commercial interests were of great importance to many local residents, especially to neighboring George Washington in Mount Vernon. Washington maintained a town house here and served as a
Trustee of Alexandria. Washington also purchased a pew in Christ Church, served as Worshipful Master of Alexandria Masonic Lodge No. 22, and shipped his wheat and fish through Alexandria merchants.
In 1789, Alexandria and a portion of Fairfax County were ceded by the State of Virginia to become a part of the new 10-mile square District of Columbia. Formally accepted by Congress in 1801, Alexandria remained under the aegis of the new federal government until it was retroceded to Virginia in 1847. In 1796, a visitor, the Duc de La Rochfoucauld Liancourt, commented that, "Alexandria is beyond all comparison the handsomest town in Virginia--indeed is among the fi nest in the United States."
"Light Horse Harry" Lee, a Revolutionary War general, and the father of Robert E. Lee, brought his family to Alexandria in 1810. Robert lived here until his departure for West Point in June. 1825.
Despite increasing competition from Baltimore, which gradually replaced Alexandria as the main shipping point for the upper Chesapeake region, the town remained a bustling center for the export of grain and bread products, fish, a variety of small manufactures and rail transportation.
Alexandria also was a center of the slave trade during the early nineteenth century, from which thousands of blacks were transported to Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and other areas in the deepSouth where cotton production demanded more and more labor. New gas and water works and many new homes were constructed in town during this
period and Alexandria's population almost doubled in the decade before 1860.
1861-1865
Within days of Virginia's secession from the Union in the spring of 1861, Federal troops arrived in Alexandria to take possession of the city. Union military forces arrived on May 24, 1861, and Alexandria became a logistical supply center for the federal army. Troops and supplies were transported to Alexandria via the port and the railroad and then dispersed where needed at the front. Wounded soldiers, brought back on the trains, crowded the available hospitals and temporary medical facilities in and around the town. Many of the largest buildings in town, including The Lyceum, were confiscated for use as hospitals and for other official purposes and many new warehouses were constructed along the waterfront. It was during this era that several forts were constructed in Alexandria as a part of the defenses of the City of Washington. Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site contains one of these restored forts. From 1863 to 1865, the City was the capital of the Restored Government of Virginia, which represented the seven Virginia counties remaining under federal control during the Civil War. By the end of the Civil War, Alexandria's economy was in shambles but the city itself had been spared the destruction witnessed by many other places in Virginia such as Richmond and Fredericksburg.
Although Alexandria was a major slave-trading center prior to the Civil War, it also had a history of several free black communities. African-American
life flourished with the establishment of churches, social and fraternal organizations, and businesses. Many early Alexandria African-Americans were skilled artisans. During the Civil War, African American refugees flooded into Union-controlled areas, including Alexandria and Washington. Although many of the freedmen found work and some served in the Union army, others arrived destitute, malnourished, and in poor health. After hundreds of freed people perished in the area, a parcel of undeveloped land was seized from a proConfederate owner for use as a cemetery. This cemetery is now the Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial, open to the public.
The 20th and 21st Centuries
The 20th century saw the creation of new neighborhoods as Alexandria expanded to the west, the advent of historic preservation and urban renewal, two World Wars, the Civil Rights movement and designation of the ParkerGray District, and the arrival of new immigrant communities.” - Source: City of Alexandria, Virginia – alexandriava.gov/history-alexandria Whew! A lot has gone down to get to where we are today and there is certainly much to celebrate! It also is a little mind boggling to me that the USA is much younger than Alexandria at a mere 248 years! Mark your calendars to celebrate both milestone birthdays on the waterfront on the 13th. See the details in the calendar in this issue.
Historical photo courtesy of the City of Alexandria. Photo of Alexandria skyline by Daniel Horowitz. Skyline prints availabile at www.dclensman.com.
FINANCIAL FOCUS
Smart Summer Spending Tips for Families
Summer is a time for fun, relaxation, and making memories with your loved ones. However, it can also be a season of increased spending if you're not careful. From vacations and outings to everyday expenses, it's easy to see your budget take a hit during these warmer months. To help you enjoy a fantastic summer without breaking the bank, here are some smart summer spending tips for families.
1. Plan and Set a Budget
Before the summer kicks off, sit down with your family, and discuss your plans. Create a list of activities, trips, and events you’d like to experience, and estimate the costs for each. Set a realistic budget that accounts for these expenses and stick to it. Planning ahead allows you to allocate funds appropriately and avoid lastminute, costly decisions.
2. Take Advantage of Free and Low-Cost Activities
Our community offers free or lowcost summer activities, such as outdoor concerts, movie nights, and festivals. Check the Event & Activities calendar for a list of current happenings. Public parks, beaches, and hiking trails are excellent places
for affordable family fun. Many museums and the National Zoo are free in Washington, DC so be sure to take advantage of these opportunities.
3. Have a Staycation
A staycation can be just as enjoyable as a vacation if you plan it right. Explore your city as if you were a tourist: visit local attractions, try new restaurants, or spend a day at a nearby park or beach. A staycation saves on travel and accommodation costs, allowing you to enjoy the comforts of home while still creating memorable experiences.
4. Plan Picnics and BBQs
Eating out can quickly add up, so why not plan a few picnics or BBQs
instead? Pack a lunch and head to a local park or beach or invite friends & family over for a backyard BBQ. Not only are these options budgetfriendly, but they also provide a relaxed atmosphere to spend quality time with your loved ones.
5. Teach Your Kids About Money Summer is an excellent opportunity to teach your children about budgeting and saving. Give them a small budget for summer activities and help them plan how to use it. This not only teaches valuable fi nancial skills but also helps them understand the importance of smart spending. With a little planning and creativity, you can enjoy a fun-filled summer
without overspending. By taking advantage of free activities, planning cost-effective outings, and making smart fi nancial decisions, your family can create lasting memories without the stress of fi nancial strain.
Remember, the best summer experiences don’t have to come with a high price tag—they come from the moments you share and the memories you make together.
For more fi nancial tips and resources, visit our Financial Education Center at www.TransFCU.org. Enjoy your summer wisely!
From the CEO: We’re proud to serve your financial needs at any of our branches. We’re also part of the COOP Network of ATMs and Shared Branch locations. This means you can access your money at over 30,000 ATMs nationwide, including those at Walgreens, Costco® and 7-Eleven® stores. Plus, you can walk into any participating credit union and take care of most of your financial needs at 5,000 shared branches and 2,000 self-serve locations across the U.S., Puerto Rico, Guam, and military bases around the world.
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July - A Month of Celebrations!
Let's start with the 4th of July.
The nation’s fi rst “organized” July 4th celebration occurred in 1777: 247 years ago, in Philadelphia and Boston. Founded in July 1749, Alexandria now celebrates its 275th birthday. The town sold the fi rst of its available lots beginning July 13th
In 1749 George Mason IV, a selftaught lawyer, was a member of the Fairfax County Court, a Truro parish vestryman, and a partner in the speculative Ohio Company. He was appointed to Alexandria’s Board of Trustees in 1754; then became Fairfax County’s representative to the Virginia House of Burgesses [17581751]. Also the House of Delegates [1776-1780].
Many describe Mason [1725-1792] as America’s forgotten founder. “The fact is unquestionable that the Bill of Rights and the [June 29, 1776] Constitution of Virginia were drawn originally by George Mason,” Thomas Jefferson said in 1825.
George Mason IV authored several important documents, perhaps none more famous than his June 12, 1776, Virginia Declaration of Rights. Section 1: “All men are by nature equally free and independent and have certain inherent rights, of which, when they enter into a state of society, they cannot, by any compact, deprive or divest their posterity; namely, the enjoyment of life and liberty, with the means of acquiring and possessing property, and pursuing and obtaining happiness and safety.”
Mason’s opening inspired Jefferson to add similar language to his July 4, 1776, Declaration of Independence: “We hold these truths to be selfevident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”
Like many post-Colonial Americans George Mason IV contemplated revision of the revolutionary government’s 1777 Articles of Confederation. Yet ten years later, when opportunity knocked, Mason declined to sign the Constitution as written.
Mason believed passionately in human liberty. It was George Mason IV, the Ohio Company’s treasurer [1749-1792] who sent Virginia surveyor George Rogers Clark west. Mason protested not only Britain’s handling of the Ohio Company, but
also the Stamp Act [1765] and the Boston Port Bill [1774].
“Let our fellow-Subjects in Great Britain reflect that we are descended from the same Stock with themselves, nurtured in the same Principles of Freedom; which we have both suck’d in with our Mother’s Milk,” George Mason IV wrote the Committee of London Merchants in 1766. “In crossing the Atlantic Ocean, we have only changed our Climate, not our Minds.”
In 1774 Mason teamed with neighbor George Washington to protest, among other things, Parliament’s passage of the Coercive Acts. The three onerous Acts were the Administration of Justice Act, the Massachusetts Regulating Act, and the Quebec Act. The Justice Act protected royal officials serving in the Massachusetts colony from law suits filed in the colonial courts. The second Act radically altered the Massachusetts colony’s political structure, the third Quebec’s.
On July 18, 1774—250 years ago—a 25-member committee including George Washington, John Carlyle, and George Mason met in Alexandria to adopt the Fairfax County Resolves.
“The resolutions, authored by Mason, warned that a conspiracy existed in British halls of power bent on making the colonists second class citizens,” Mount Vernon said.
1. “Resolved that this Colony and Dominion of Virginia cannot be considered as a conquered Country; and if it was, that the present Inhabitants are the Descendants not of the Conquered, but of the Conquerors. That the same was not settled at the National Expence of England, but at the private Expence of the Adventurers.”
“The Resolves contained the implied threat of further action to enforce American rights and independence,” the Library of Congress explained.
In September 1787 Virginia delegate George Mason IV attended Philadelphia’s Constitutional Convention. He made 136 speeches; offered to write a Bill of Rights, and encouraged the direct election of members of Congress. Mason’s 16 Objections are noteworthy, especially today
Objection 1: “There is no Declaration of Rights, and the laws of the general government being paramount to the laws and constitution of the several
States, the Declarations of Rights in the separate States are no security….”
Objection 2: “In the House of Representatives there is not the substance but the shadow only of representation….”
Objections 3&4: U.S. Constitution, Article 1 Section 3.1. “The Senate of the United States shall be composed of two senators from each State, “chosen by the legislatures thereof….” The U.S. Senate was not “elected by the people thereof” until the beginning of the 20th century. [Amendment XVII, as ratified in 1913]
Objection 6: “The President of the United States has no Constitutional Council, a thing unknown in any safe and regular government. He will therefore be unsupported by proper information and advice, and will generally be directed by minions and favorites.”
Objection 8: “The President of the United States has the unrestrained power of granting pardons for treason, which may be sometimes exercised to screen from punishment those whom he had secretly instigated to commit the crime, and thereby prevent a discovery of his own guilt.”
[As per the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol?]
Objection 12: “There is no declaration of any kind, for preserving the liberty of the press….” According to Pew Research, “half of Americans at least sometimes get news from social media [and] the changes have caused huge disruptions.”
Objection 15: “This government will set out a moderate aristocracy: it is at present impossible to foresee whether it will…produce a monarchy, or a tyrannical aristocracy.”
Mason’s objections changed his relationship with Washington. “I believe there are few men in whom George Washington has placed greater confidence,” Mason wrote son John in 1789. “But it is possible my opposition to the new government… may have altered the case.”
In the end Mason’s Virginia Declaration of Rights served as a model not only for Thomas Jefferson: James Madison and the U.S. Bill of Rights [1791], but also France’s Declaration of the Rights of Man [1789], and the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights [1948].
“I sincerely hope that George Mason’s Gunston Hall, will in time, become a symbol of the rights of man and a mecca for all libertyloving Americans,” President Harry S. Truman reminded in 1949. His plantation home was built in 1755 and housed a large slave population.
William Buckland—an indentured servant, carpenter & joiner— designed the home’s elaborately carved interior woodwork. For more information including lectures, visit https://www.gunstonhall.org
George Mason IV was of an era, the era of declarations of rights. Those who “are by nature equally free and independent and have certain inherent rights” appreciate his stewardship. Columnist’s Reply: Thanks to the many who responded to April’s Earth Day column. NOAA and the Mauna Loa Observatory recently reaffirmed that “the amount of carbon dioxide [CO2] produced today is pushing the atmosphere further into territory not seen for millions of years…that CO2 is at levels our species has never experienced before.”
“[W]e need to do more to become a Climate Ready Nation,” NOAA Administrator Nick W. Spinrad said. As for May’s Artificial Intelligence column, thanks to all for your comments. As was suggested, I have secured a copy of Francis Wayland’s 1851 book, The Elements of Moral Science. Q4: Technology ethics are essential why, left many asking new questions. For example, property rights: the choice of material used and ownership of; how the software is applied and trained; the moral essence, bias, and reliability thereof. 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 Duffs & Up the Assets, as “a blueprint for thousands of nonprofit managers.” A former museum director, SLAM’s saving grace Sarah received Alexandria’s Salute to Women Award in 2007. Email: abitofhistory53@gmail.com
ONSTAGE IN OLD TOWN: JULY
July offers audiences a wonderful smorgasbord of Broadway musicals, along with some top drawer dramas and a comedy. Enjoy the summertime in airconditioned comfort:
Through July 7th
HAIR
Signature Theatre
Matthew Gardiner hits the nail on the head once again with this spot-on revival of America’s tribal love-rock musical. As he did to open the season with a fi ne production of Ragtime, the adroit Signature Theatre artistic director delivers a cast that acts, sings and dances the hell out of the show. More important, Gardiner tells us a touching, ultimately tragic story we can follow—not a mean feat for this often disjointed piece.
This is your last chance to see Matthew Gardiner’s spot-on revival of everyone’s favorite hippie musical. Even if you can fry an egg on the sidewalk, “let the sunshine in” still makes for a fun-filled fi nale. Tickets at www. sigtheatre.org
WHERE THE MOUNTAIN MEETS THE SEA Signature Theatre
While the Age of Aquarius dawns downstairs, Signature’s intimate Ark space plays host to the DC premier of this poignant musical about a son coming togrips with his estranged father’s passing. Recreating the same cross-country trip his Haitian immigrant parents took before his birth, the music proves to the thing that bonds them as time blurs and the distance between them diminishes. Lyrical storytelling and an evocative folk score drive father and son to rediscover love, each other and their everlasting bond. Tickets at www. sigtheatre.org
Through July 14th
IS GOD IS
Constellation Theatre
In this fierce and funny drama, twin sisters embark on a journey across America to exact righteous revenge on the man who betrayed their family. Constellation concludes its winning 17th season with this epic Afropunk adventure. Tickets at www.constellationtheatre.org
KNUFFLE BUNNY: A CAUTIONARY MUSICAL
Glen Echo Park
DC’s award-winning Adventure Theatre MTC presents a new musical based on the Caldecott winning book by Mo Willems. When Trixie and her father bustle through the streets of New York City, everything is hunky dory. But, returning home, Trixie discovers that her Knuffle Bunny is gone—and she can’t tell her Dad what’s wrong. Tickets at www.adventureintheatre-mtc.org
FUNNY GIRL
Kennedy Center
The bittersweet story of the indomitable Fanny Brice, a plain-looking Jewish girl from the Lower East Side who became of the funniest and most beloved performers in Broadway history. Her love life didn’t go quite as well as her routines for the legendary Florenz Ziegfeld: therein lies the pathos in this Broadway hit, featuring the Streisand chestnut “People” and a load of great Jule Styne- Bob Merrill showstoppers. Tickets at www.kennedy-center.org
Now thru September 1
JERSEY BOYS
Toby’s Dinner Theatre
The story of four blue-collar juvenile delinquents who became one of the greatest successes in pop music history, this show takes you behind the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Discover the secret of a 40 year friendship as they work their way from the streets of Jersey to the heights of stardom. All the Four Seasons hits, all the time. Tickets at www. tobysdinnertheatre.com
July 3- August 11
THE COLORED MUSEUM
Studio Theatre
Broadway wunderkind George Wolfe got his start writing this provocative tour of eleven “exhibits”— satiric sketches targeting America’s most pernicious stereotypes of Black culture. Directed by Psalmayene 24, who staged an
enchanting Metamorphoses at the Folger Library Theatre, you can bet this production won’t hold back on Wolfe’s toxic narratives about the Black American experience. Tickets at www. studiotheatre.org
July 3- August 25
BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL Olney Theatre Center
Before she became the legendary singer-songwriter who helped defi ne an era, Carole King was a 16-year-old Brooklyn kid trying to sell her songs to Tin Pan Alley publishers. Then she met Gerry Goffin; together they churned out hits like “Take Good Care of My Baby,” “Up On The Roof,” and “Will You (Still) Love Me Tomorrow” for pop acts like the Shirelles and The Drifters. Did their partnership and romance survive the ups and downs of the music biz? Tickets at www.olneytheatre.org
July 20- August 10
MEMPHIS
Alexandria Little Theatre
This Tony® Award winning Best Musical by Bon Jovi sideman David Bryan tales the sobering tale of a 50s era disc jockey who falls in love with the new-fangled rock and roll songs he hears on the backstreets of this Tennessee town, along with the beautiful girl who sings them. The problem? He’s white and she’s black. Problems ensue—can love conquer all? Tickets at www.thelittletheatre.com
July 23- August 11
BACK TO THE FUTURE… THE MUSICAL Kennedy Center
Adapted for the stage by Bob Gale and Robert Zemeckis, the film’s creators, this happy new stage show won London’s Best Musical Award. Once again, Marty McFly fi nds himself transported back to 1955 in a time machine built by the eccentric scientist Doc Brown. Now Marty’s in a race against time to fi x the present, escape the past, and send himself... back to the future. Will he get that DeLorean up to 88mph when lightning strikes? Head to the Ken Center and fi nd out. Tickets at www.kennedy-center.org
July 27- September 1
NOISES OFF
Keegan Theatre
Michael Frayn’s door-slamming farce could be the funniest play ever written. The Keegan brings back their acclaimed 2010 production that played to sold-out houses. Why be a Scrooge and stay away this time? Tickets at www.keegantheatre.com
About the Author: Mark Edelman is a playwright who loves writing about theater. He is a lifetime member of the Broadway League and a Tony voter.
Photo credits: Casey Likes and the Broadway cast of Back to the Future photo by Matthew Murphy. Robert Morrison, Awa Sal Secka and Robert Cornelius in Signature Theatre’s Where the Mountain Meets the Sea photo by Christopher Mueller. Funny Girl national tour photo by Matthew Murphy. Hair photo also by Christopher Mueller.
This hit musical is loosely based on the story of Memphis disc jockey Dewey Phillips, one of the first white DJs to play black music in the 1950s. A mixture of soul, blues, jazz, and rock ‘n roll, surrounded by racial tension and rivalries.
Set in 19th Century London, this delightful farce depicts the chaos that ensues when a woman tries to gain entry to a fictional club of explorers. Lots of silly gags, tricks, and physical comedy.
The Broadway musical based on the Gothic novella by Robert Louis Stevenson, follows a London-based legal practitioner who investigates a series of strange events involving his friend, Dr. Henry Jekyll and a murderous criminal named Edward Hyde.
DEC. 7 – 21,
The delightful musical tale of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a sharp mind and a vivid imagination, dares to take a stand to change her story with miraculous results.
Shakespeare’s
Much Ado AboUT NOTHING
A comedy by William Shakespeare, this play revolves around two romantic pairings that emerge when a group of soldiers arrives in town. The play relies on tensions created by a paradoxical use of deception by its characters.
During the performance of a play-within-a-play, a plethora of disasters befall the cast and crew, including doors sticking, props falling, and floors collapsing. Cast members misplace props, forget lines, break character, and experience hilarious situations.
Afew years ago, when I was fi rst exposed to Shiri Achu’s artwork, I described it as “Powerful African Art in a marriage of contemporary skills with strong African imagery”, and she was also one of my Top 10 artists at the 2016 ARTOMATIC.
From a recent news release about her latest venture, we learn that Achu was born in Cameroon, and together with her family “immigrated to London when she was a child and where she found her passion for art and started painting at a tender age of 9 years old. Today she actively paints and exhibits around the world and has studios in the UK, Cameroon, and in the USA, where she currently resides.”
At the recently concluded ARTOMATIC, I ran into this exuberant and enviably talented artist, and learned about her 10th Anniversary InPrint exhibition.
From there we learn that Shiri believes “Art comes from, unsurprising, yet unexpectedly vivid
Now Introducing the Work of Shiri Achu
moments, times, places and objects. I aim to capture the spirit of my subjects and make them come alive through form, color, texture and tone.”
One of the aims of Shiri Achu’s art is to “showcase and promote Cameroon and African cultures worldwide. Shiri fi nds beauty in the woman carrying her child on her back and going her way. She fi nds beauty in the old lady who makes her ‘achu’ in her dark, smoky outdoor kitchen for her grandchildren. She fi nds beauty in African fabrics. She fi nds beauty, envy even, in the young girl climbing the tree, so, she paints these images. Shiri’s paintings reflect the beautiful simplicity of Africa and she offers this to the World to promote, and increase understanding of the cultures and the people.”
Are you ready to be astounded about what a hard-working and dedicated artist can do?
Her upcoming show 45InPrint marks her 10th ‘InPrint’ Exhibition, with
‘InPrint’ being an annual series of exhibitions for the past 9 years.
For each, Shiri chose a focal destination city to exhibit her art and to showcase and expose the African culture to its citizens. The fi rst of the InPrint series, 35InPrint:LONDON took place in April 2014 at The Strand Gallery in Central London.
36InPrint:DC took place in May 2016 at Gallery A in Washington, DC. 37InPrint:AUSTRALIA took place in July at Mama Jambo in Australia. 38InPrint:JAMAICA took place in August 2017 at The Regional Headquarters of the University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica. 39InPrint:TORONTO, took place in November at Ariilon, Toronto, Canada.
After that, three exhibitions titled The 40th Act – took place in London August 2019 at St Augustine’s Tower – Hackney, London, the second 40th Act – Washington DC took place at The Cameroon Embassy in Nov 2019. The third and fi nal The 40th
Act – Douala was programmed for Dec 2019 but faced the Covidian pandemic.
This also meant that 41InPirint:WORLDWIDE was a virtual exhibition which took place in April 2021. The online exhibition featured a host of special guests daily including American soul singer Angie Stone, renowned Jamaican Dub Poet Mutabaruka, Nigerian movie industry pioneer, actor Zack Orji, and revolutionary Cameroonian musician Witty Minstrel among many others. SYNCED exhibition synchronized The 40th Act – Douala with ‘42InPrint:DOUALA’ at gallery MAM in Douala in 2021.
Are you beginning to see what a resourceful and adaptive artist this tornado of a woman is?
There’s more, 43InPrint:YAOUNDE took place at The National Museum in Yaounde, the capital city of Cameroon in November 2022, and more recently 44InPrint:DOHA Private view took place on The
"It's black, its white"; Acrylic on canvas, 2023
“Colours of the Musical Sounds 1”; Acrylic on canvas, 2013
"1.1.11 Baforchu Big Men Celebrates"; Acrylic and Fabric on canvas, 2011
‘Signature’ Yacht. Following that, it was opened to the public on 19th – 20th of April 2024 at Manha Avant Garde Art Gallery at The Pearl Island, Qanat Quartier, in Qatar. Amazed yet?
45InPrint:DMV will consist of 45 framed and unframed signed limited editions of Shiri‘s art prints. Throughout the 10 weeks long period, Shiri aims to host some special events such as a workshop, books launch, a taste of Cameroon dinner party, an auction, and closing it all with a fashion show.
There’s more! Shiri also launched a campaign (titled GROUNDED) on the 30th of June to raise money toward completing a school floor in Santa, Cameroon. 45% of every entry fee or 10th Anniversary gift will be put towards this GROUNDED campaign. Also, 10% of every art sale, merchandise sale, etc. throughout the 10 weeks long exhibition will be put towards this campaign.
The exhibition will be at the Ven Hotel at Embassy Row, Washington, D.C., located at 2015 Massachusetts Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20036. There will be a Friday 12th July Registered Guests Opening Reception before the exhibition is open to the public on Saturday 13th, 12pm-10pm. The Exhibition will be open daily from Sat. 13th July - Sun. 8th Sept. 2024. Please call the hotel before you visit, in case there is a private event. There will be a closing party on Saturday 7th Sept., 4pm-10pm. Please visit her website at www.shiriachuart.com for details.
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.
Exclusively representing the works of F. Lennox Campello
“A woman in love with abstraction” - 2021
Price and additional images upon request.
“ONE OF THE MOST INTERESTING PEOPLE OF
16x20 watercolor on paper with embedded electronic images that rotate every 5 seconds.
WASHINGTON, DC”
– Washington City Paper
Exclusively representing the works of F. Lennox Campello
Price and additional images upon request.
Alida Anderson Art Projects, LLC, Washington, DC www.alidaanderson.com / info@alidaanderson.com
Devil with the Blue Dress
“She’s
a real
humdinger and I like it like that.”
There is lots of new inventory in the shop and you can order online. Choose your style, your size and color, including the tie dye blue (but no brushstroke). From Christopher Calvin. Jane Seymour Hat by Walleroo. Jewelry by Sarah Cavender Metalworks. Handmade in Oxford, Alabama.
Monday – Sunday, 11am – 5pm 1124 King Street l Alexandria, Virginia 22314 703-548-1461 l www.imagineartwear.com csimagine@aol.com
Photo by Bev Dietz Curated vintage decor, art, unique gifts, and more! FLINTANDBAILEY.COM
Big River by Johnny Cash
In 1958 the man in black, Johnny Cash, released a foot stomping hit song called “Big River”. The song peaked at number 4 on Billboard's country charts and stayed on the charts for 14 weeks. With its bopping rhythm and melodic attitude, “Big River” has been welcomed through speakers, headphones, and radio airwaves for more than half a century. But enough preamble: Let's delve into a country classic that helped defi ne country music in the 1950s and continues to inspire artists from multiple genres to this day.
“Big River” begins with the twang of Luther Perkins plucking out a catchy little guitar lick on his Fender Telecaster. Johnny Cash answers Perkins' lead guitar picking with shuffling acoustic guitar strumming. These two elements combined to create the unique and head bobbing rhythm of the song. Additionally, Marshall Grant’s stand-up bass playing provides both a smooth low end to the mix as well as percussion created by striking the bass strings in a style that makes a clicking sound on the fretboard. The musical textures created by the twang of the electric guitar, jangle of the acoustic guitar, and low end of the bass also play a key role in the charm of “Big River”. But, as is the case with so many country songs, the large portion of appeal is found in the story the lyrics tell.
Johnny Cash begins the story of “Big River” with the lines: “I taught the weeping willow how to cry / And I showed the clouds how to cover up a clear blue sky”. With a melody that projects an upbeat feeling and lyrics that express the pain of heartbreak, “Big River” quickly found, and continues to fi nd, a place in the hearts of millions. The song’s combination of rhythm, melody, and lyrics puts a spring in your step while simultaneously extending commiseration to anyone going through tough times. A fi nal shine and sparkle is added to the sound of “Big River” through a 1950s tape echo applied to Cashes vocals.
Composed of just three verse sections and a few musical turnarounds, “Big River” comes in at just a hair over two minutes and thirty seconds. Without a chorus the main hook of the song is provided by its repetitive music and melody lines that wind up and round off like perfect circles. The simplicity of three instruments, a single vocal, and a great song come together on “Big River” to give the world an experience of immeasurable value. A value that continues to expand with every passing year.
Johnny Cash entered through the pearly gates in 2003 and left behind one of the most beloved musical legacies of all time. Although his presence is missed here on earth, we still have the songs he left behind: over 1,500 of them. If you’d like to listen to “Big River” or any of the many great songs by Johnny Cash, you can fi nd them on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and most other places music is streamed or sold. If you'd like to learn more about Johnny Cash, you can fi nd information on Wikipedia, johnnycash.com., or the books that have been written about him.
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.
AFTER HOURS
Birchmere
703.549.7500
3701 Mt. Vernon Ave. birchmere.com
The Blackwall Hitch
571-982-3577
5 Cameron St. theblackwallhitch.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
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.
TJ Stones
703.548.1004
608 Montgomery St. tjstones.com
The Study
703-838-8000
116 South Alfred Two Nineteen
703.549.1141
219 King St.
Alexandria Bier Garden
710 King St. 703-888-1951
Augie's Mussel House
703.721.3970
1106 King St. eataugies.com
Mason Social
703.548.8800
728 N. Henry St.
DEXTER: From Page to Screen
The TV show Dexter, adapted from Jeff Lindsay’s novel, Darkly Dreaming Dexter, is a story about a serial killer who kills serial killers.
The series hit Showtime in 2006 and lasted seven years, breaking Showtime viewing records in the process. The show fi nale attracted 2.8 million viewers. This past week it was released on Netflix, exposing it to a huge audience that has already started to enjoy its blood, guts, and edgy humor.
Writer James Manos Jr. adapted most of the fi rst season from Lindsay’s fi rst book in his series about blood spatter analyst Dexter Morgan, who works for the Miami Metro Police Department with his sister, Debra, a police officer. The subsequent seven seasons veer away from the books.
Dexter was adopted as a toddler by Harry Morgan, a police officer. Realizing Dexter’s violent, sociopathic tendencies early while loving him, Harry attempts to fi nd a way for him to maintain a prosocial, compartmentalized life without going to prison. This method also helps Dexter indulge his proclivities. The two avoid telling his sister anything about the system they devise.
As a veteran police officer, he teaches Dexter a method that he calls “the code.” The fi rst rule is “Don’t get caught.” Next is verifying the guilt of serial murderers and others who slip through cracks in the justice system. He can never kill anyone who does not fit these criteria. Last comes tracking and killing the murderers while leaving no evidence. As a scientist, he takes his own trophies in the form of a drop of a victim’s blood on glass slides that he keeps in a box. In the fi rst season, Dexter and his sister become involved in the case of the Ice Truck Killer, someone who leaves his prostitute victims in pieces with no fi ngerprints or blood evidence. Dexter has found his serial-killing soul mate. Viewers enjoyed this series in part because of its inside jokes and their knowledge of this everyman’s true nature. He calls his method of killing “taking out the trash.” By eliminating the scum that avoid punishment and continue their crimes, he justifies his vigilante murders. Dexter brings in donuts for his colleagues, a mild-mannered blood spatter analyst and a killer hiding in plain sight. Without knowing it, the department often works in tandem with him as he verifies murderers and tries to “take out the trash” before the police can arrest them.
Michael C. Hall delivers a subtle performance as the somehow sympathetic murderer who ponders his inability to share his inner self. His girlfriend, Rita, played by Julie Benz, is a woman with two kids who divorced an abusive husband. Benz delivers a superior performance as Rita, a sweet, tremulous woman who only wants a happy domestic life.
Like Bryan Cranston in Breaking Bad or Bob Odenkirk in Better Call Saul, Hall makes an irresistible impression on viewers. Carrying a show and showing character development through eight seasons of action and
introspection is no easy matter, and Hall’s deadpan, agreeable, but distant demeanor supports the perfect performance. While he must maintain less of a range of emotions for his specific character than the actors listed above, in many ways his portrayal is just as difficult.
That being said, sometimes I was bewildered by the uneven quality of other significant characters, and in particular the female ones. Jennifer Carpenter plays his sister, Debra, as an enthusiastic, foulmouthed police officer trying to advance in the department. Per the plotline she becomes a canny and instinctive leader. Carpenter’s character seems too grating, insecure, and emotionally incontinent, though, to be convincing in that role.
The police lieutenant Maria LaGuerta, a Cuban American played by Luna Lauren Velez, is a calculating political actor who wavers between supporting her department and making the moves that publicize her victories in Miami. Like Dexter, her ends often justify the means. I would like to see Velez in another production. She has little chance to show emotional complexity in this two-dimensional and unsympathetic harpy.
I begin to wonder if the show’s writers or showrunner were unable to portray women well. Most compelling shows are more consistent than this one. While these depictions do not spoil the series, they lessen its quality.
Other characters in the series, however, add personality and fun. Vince Masuka, played by C.S. Lee, is the chief forensics expert, a politically incorrect nerd who annoys his colleagues with offcolor jokes. David Zayas plays Angel Batista, who along with Lieutenant LaGuerta adds Miami flavor to the proceedings as a Latinx actor. A good-natured detective, he helps keep the department together.
James Remar plays the dead Harry Morgan, with whom Dexter discusses his murders. He queries Dexter constantly about what he does and why he does it, adding a necessary dramatic construct for the show. As the series progresses, Dexter starts to question him back, rebelling against someone who taught him not to connect with other people.
Dexter often asks you to suspend your disbelief, and I often did. While there are holes in the plot, Dexter toys with society’s fascination with serial killers in an interesting fashion. It explores the notion of vigilante justice and how it compares with the justice system. The show also focuses on the strength of close sibling relationships in a moving way.
While Michael C. Hall makes Dexter convincing, most psychiatrists do not believe sociopaths can change or develop, which was a stumbling block for me. The show also jumped the shark in its later seasons.
That being said, Dexter as a character is realistic in a symbolic sense. His inscrutable, pleasant demeanor and vague answers to repeated questions about what he does and where he goes allow his family and friends to project their own insecurities and beliefs onto him. Many people can be strangers to those who spend the most time with them.
Even the Crabs Are Hot!
Unlike humans, who usually experience heat waves only in the summer, marine life can fi nd itself in hot water, or marine heat waves, throughout the year. While the topic is well-researched in the world’s oceans, little is known at a smaller scale.
The Virginia Institute of Marine Science wrangled 35 years of data to release the fi rst study that analyzes marine heat waves below the fi rst meter of water in an estuary, especially in the Chesapeake Bay. The study found that marine heat waves have seasonal patterns, which could lead to a habitat squeeze for fish and disrupt blue crab migration patterns.
“The only reason that we are able to do [that kind of study] is because of all of the monitoring programs in the Chesapeake Bay,” said Nathan Shunk, who is the lead author of the study. “Everybody really cares about the health of the Bay.”
Marine heat waves occur when water temperatures are warmer than 90% of previous observations for a particular location and time of year. They last 11 days on average in the Bay and can happen throughout the year. Wind, warm water from rivers, ocean currents and a warming atmosphere are all factors that cause this phenomenon.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, the world’s oceans absorb 90% of the excess heat associated with global warming. In turn, marine heat waves are becoming warmer.
However, scientists in the field emphasize that marine heat waves
are not so frequent and intense that oceans will be caught in a perpetual heat wave. Instead, a warming planet calls for a new defi nition of “normal conditions” and new thresholds that defi ne heat waves.
“In reality, the impacts associated with global warming, which is a slowly evolving warming of the ocean, are going to be different than the impacts associated with short duration, high-intensity episodic events like marine heat waves,” said Dillon Amaya, research scientist at the NOAA Physical Sciences Laboratory.
Certain studies, like the VIMS research, use a shifting baseline that accounts for ocean warming. That way, marine heat waves remain defi ned as exceptional and brief events.
The study found that the heat waves in the Bay show seasonal patterns. During the fall and winter, the phenomenon occurs throughout the water’s layers. Increased temperature means there’s less oxygen in the water. The study showed that the biggest decrease in dissolved oxygen took place in the winter and early spring.
“It would probably be more like going to a higher elevation,” Shunk said. “There’s less oxygen in the water, but it’s nowhere near lethal levels.”
During spring and summer, the water density was different throughout the Bay’s layers, meaning heat waves only occurred near the surface at a depth of 5–10 meters. Flows from freshwater in rivers that merge into the Bay reach their peak in spring. Heavier
saltwater falls to the bottom as lighter freshwater sits on top, trapping the heat because it can’t sink to deeper levels.
The change in dissolved oxygen from the heat waves wasn’t as large in spring and summer as it was in fall and winter. But dissolved oxygen levels are already low in the summer because of hypoxic areas or “dead zones,” where the oxygen is depleted by decaying algae blooms.
“That’s because, on the edges of the border of the hypoxic region, the dissolved oxygen is so low that just small changes kind of push it into levels that are potentially lethal for fishes and whatnot,” Shunk said.
With the heat trapped at the top water layer, fish must swim lower. But hypoxic zones near the bottom limit where fish can escape.
Aquatic species are affected by marine heat waves differently. Some can easily recover from short periods of intense heat but die from constant heat exposure. Others can adapt to slowly increasing temperatures but die from heat shock. Some organisms move to a different area, while others can’t.
The study suggests that marine heat waves could change the migration patterns of blue crabs. Rom Lipcius, professor of marine science at VIMS, said blue crabs have naturally evolved to thrive in warm temperatures as a tropical marine species. But he also said that timing is everything. He has seen blue crabs’ reproduction season start earlier when the water gets warmer, and marine heat waves could be a mechanism pushing that.
Female blue crabs in the Bay molt
and mate starting in spring. Then, in late summer and fall, they migrate south to hatch their eggs near the mouth of the Bay. Lipcius pointed out that factors associated with heat waves, like hypoxic zones, could push blue crabs to the shallows or delay females from returning south to hatch their eggs. This could mean fewer crabs to harvest.
Heat waves can also be fatal to crabs that get caught in crab pots and can't escape to cooler water. If crabbers knew when a marine heat wave was coming, they could put traps in the shallows or temporarily stop operations to avoid harvesting dead crabs.
“If you want to predict what’s going to happen, you have to have a very good understanding of the mechanisms in which [marine heat waves] are generated and their behavior in the ocean, or estuary in our case,” said Assistant Professor Piero Mazzini, who supervised the study.
Shunk and Mazzini hope future studies look at what specifically triggers marine heat waves in the Bay and compare marine heat waves in different estuaries.
About the Author: Lauren HinesAcosta is a Bay Journal staff writer based in Virginia. You can reach Lauren at lhinesacosta@ bayjournal.com . The Bay Journal is published by Bay Journal Media, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit news organization. We provide independent reporting on environmental news and issues in the Chesapeake Bay watershed and reach more than 250,000 people each month.
35 Years of Big Boom Fireworks, Outdoor Concerts...
... Air Acrobatics & the County Fair
The Concerts
If your idea of fi reworks fun is to head away from Washington D.C. toward the country, Great Meadow in The Plains offers some big booms as spectacular as those fi reworks, but in a rural setting. There is an admissions fee of $50 per car, but it covers all occupants so if your idea is to save money, pack the car with friends and a picnic. Food trucks will be available onsite with a variety of offerings and gates open at 5 pm July 4th. Pre-fi reworks activities include Fair Games, Face Painting, Mini Golf, Concessions & Vendors, Music, Various Demonstrations and Exhibitions, music in the Beer Garden; Color Guard, Flyovers, National Anthem and other family activities that may include a polo exhibition, Tug-O-War games and pony stick races. Don't forget your party lid: at about 8:30 judges will award prizes for best hat and best tailgate. Photo by Great Meadow.
Enjoying live music concerts outdoors during the lazy, hazy midsummer days close to home needn’t cost a king’s ransom. Since the demise of the beloved Bluemont Concert series, that brought quality music to rural locations for 40 years, Tally Ho Theater in Leesburg has stepped up to the plate to offer a variety of live music weekends in Loudoun County. You can check out the acts for July and August at on their website at www.TallyHoTheater. com for the complete list. Our pick is the Toots and the Maytals celebration on July 14th. Go immerse yourself in some island reggae sounds for the ultimate summer experience. The Tally Ho Theater is a depression era movie hall renovated into an Art Deco style and lends itself beautifully to music and theater. It's located at 19 W. Market St. in Leesburg.
The Airshow
The Flying Circus Airshow near Bealeton has delighted young and old alike with daring expert pilots performing stunts in vintage biplanes, vintage plane rides and hot air balloon rides for many years. A parachute jumper opens the show, a wing-walker hangs upside down from the biplane's wing, and more. Bring the family and a picnic and enjoy the show; gates open every Sunday in July at 11 and the show starts at 2:30 p.m. The Flying Circus Airshow has been a major Southern Fauquier attraction for both locals and visitors. It’s located at 5114 Ritchie Road (off Routes 17 & 644), Bealeton, and admission is $10 per adult (plane and hot air balloon rides extra). For more information, call (540) 439-8661 or visit: www.flyingcircusairshow. com Photo courtesy of Flying Circus Aerodome and Airshow
The County Fair
July also opens the country fair season, and the Fauquier County Fair will be held July 17 through July 20. In addition to the farm animal, poultry, horse and crafts exhibits, there are rides, contests, rodeos, camel and pony rides, and for the adult kids, a mechanical bull, plus live entertainment each night. Contests include hot dog, pizza and watermelon eating competitions, barnyard beauty pageants, lawn mower rodeos and races, frozen T shirt contests, and more—anyone can enter most of them. The fairgrounds are located at 6209 Old Auburn Road in Warrenton and this “Old Fashioned” fair is great entertainment, food and fun for the family. Admission varies by day but generally $10 per adult days; $15 nights; children are less. For a complete schedule of events, and additional information, visit www. fauquierfair.org
Breezy Point & the
Growing up in this area, our beach getaways usually meant an hour drive to the Chesapeake Bay. Back in the 60's there was only one Bay Bridge and you also had to stop and pay tolls. This made for huge back-ups on weekends. At less than an hour away, back then the Chesapeake beaches made for a reasonable option on weekends and during the week. It remains the same today.
On this month’s Road Trip we decided to visit three of the Chesapeake Beach communities in Calvert County, Maryland. Maybe it isn't the Atlantic Ocean, but the Chesapeake Bay is beautiful and offers its' own attractions...sailing, power boats zooming up and down the Bay and the ever-present container ship now that Baltimore Harbor is again open. There are a lot more folks living in this region since 1965 so beware that it gets pretty crowded on weekends. However, when we were there on a Thursday afternoon there were only a few groups of folks enjoying the day under the shade trees.
We ventured to Breezy Point fi rst. Leaving Alexandria, it is a straight shot by picking up Route 4 in Maryland and heading south, to Bayside Road and turning left toward the Bay. Look for the turnoff for Breezy Point & Campground.
This half mile of sandy beach has a 200-foot fishing and crabbing pier. Stepping into the beautiful blue Chesapeake Bay you are protected by a netted swimming area. At one end of the beach there is a playground for children, as well as restrooms, outdoor showers and charcoal grills. Unlike like most beaches, Breezy Point has a few large trees on the beach for shade. These areas are popular and there are a number of picnic tables in this area. Even if you’ve packed your coolers and picnic baskets you will want to make sure to stop in at the Breezy Point Market. It is a very cool place that has just about everything you need for the day!
Leaving Breezy Point we turned right on Bayside Road for the 20 minute drive north to Chesapeake Beach and her twin, North Beach. Chesapeake Beach really doesn’t have much of an established public “beach” but is worth the visit. It was established as a resort community at the end of the Chesapeake Beach Railway, a short line railroad from
Washington, D.C. Coming to, or leaving the Twin Beaches, you will probably use Route 260 to connect to Route 4. This road was built along the old rail line, which accounts for the straight line of the road. Today at Chesapeake Beach you can visit the Railway Museum, which is a historic railway station. It is composed of two one-story hip-roofed sections, one part was once an open passenger boarding area that was later enclosed for storage. The station was built in 1898 for the Chesapeake Beach Railway. It is now the Railway Museum.
The famous Rod n' Reel Restaurant has been demolished and is currently being rebuilt. There has been massive renovation to the Rod n' Reel Resort property over the last few years. The resort complex boarders Fishing Creek where you can get on a head boat or charter one for a day’s fishing on the Chesapeake Bay. South of the complex the land rises forming the Randle Cliffs. Rising about 110 feet from the Bay, the cliffs are in a constant state of eroding revealing fossils as well as shark teeth.
There are several eateries in Chesapeake Beach as well as overnight accommodations.
A little further north (one mile) you will discover North Beach. Between the two, North Beach is our favorite. This little town was incorporated in 1910 and established as strictly a residential town with ads running in local newspapers proclaiming North Beach as "Washington’s most popular salt water resort." Revitalization began in 1980's. Tropical Storm Isabel destroyed many of the waterfront homes and boardwalk in 2003. Since then, the waterfront has been rebuilt with multi-story homes and a very “Floridaesque” flamingo pink condominium complex.
The hurricane of 1933 as well as Isabel caused damage to the beach and boardwalk. Each time repairs were made or rebuilt has resulted into today’s
There are a number of local shops and restaurants near the boardwalk and throughout North Beach making for some fun shopping and a varied dining experience. We treated ourselves to a cold beverage and the amazing crab dip at Neptune’s Seafood Pub & Restaurant located on Chesapeake Avenue. This establishment has been a part of North Beach for almost 40 years! Getting a hand dipped ice cream cone at the Cold Penguin on the boardwalk is also a must! Overnight accommodations are available within a short driving distance.
For beach access and fishing at any of these places, there is a fee. It is recommended that you secure your spot in the sand at both Breezy Point and North Beach especially on the weekends. Information on how to make this happen is available online. Like I said earlier, the Chesapeake Bay may not be the Atlantic Ocean, but come on a windy day out of the east or north east and you will see some wave action.
The beaches on the Bay are a perfect day trip!
Breezy Point – www.calvertcountymd.gov
Chesapeake Beach – www.chesapeakebeachmd.gov
North Beach – www.northbeachmd.org
Twin Beaches
half mile long boardwalk that rises above the beach for beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay. The boardwalk opens up to another amazing fishing pier and an adjacent bike path. Both serve as a meeting place for many local residents as well as visitors. The landscaping along the waterfront drive and boardwalk is worth mentioning. The Town has made sure that everything about it is very inviting.
Photo Credit: Angel Beil for the Town of North Beach
Barbie Beach Vacation in the Bahamas
It’s right on the beach, with sparkling views of the sea, copious aquatic creatures, infi nite bathing suits and even its own special shade of pink.
Atlantis Paradise Island isn’t a Malibu dream house, but the legendary Bahamian resort has temporarily transformed into its own version of Barbie World.
Atlantis kicked off its partnership with Mattel with the fi rst-ever “Barbie Boardwalk Adventure,” an interactive event that’s part of a resort-wide Barbie takeover.
Atlantis Paradise Island is already one of the world’s top family resorts. The Barbie program ups the ante.
The experience, set in the lobby of The Royal resort next the famous “Dig” aquarium, is an immediate crowd-pleaser, with everything from a huge ball pit to Barbie-themed temporary tattoos, water bottle designs, bubble mazes, slides and, naturally, a wellstocked Barbie doll shop.
transformation of the popular Sun & Ice eatery into a pink-accented Barbiethemed ice cream parlor. In all, 11 different Atlantis eateries are offering some form of Barbie-inspired dish.
The resort has turned a collection of rooms into Barbie suites.
My two daughters were among the fi rst kids to try the Experience when it opened in June, and it was an instant hit, particularly the ball pit —easily the largest one I’ve ever seen.
And as an added amenity for an already fantastic family-friendly resort, the Barbie takeover, which runs through the summer, is a welcome addition.
Life-size doll boxes for the perfect Barbie photo.
Beyond the Boardwalk Experience, which lasts about an hour and lets kids temporarily travel to Malibu (replete with life-size doll boxes for the perfect Instagram shot), Atlantis has added a host of Barbie touches across the Nassau Paradise Island resort.
That includes special Barbie-themed suites and rooms, Barbie-designed Cabanas at the Coral pool; and a
“It feels like I was in Barbie’s dream house,” my four-year-old said, highlighting the Barbie cruise-ship slide as a particularly strong inclusion. For my older daughter, the ball pit was the star. “It really felt like you were in the Barbie world.”
“Kenough” said. To learn more, visit Atlantis Paradise Island
Publishers Note: We are happy to partner with Alexander Britell, Founder and Editor in Chief of the Miami, Florida based Caribbean Journal and his staff contributing to the OTC and our Caribbean Connection photos and articles. Check out the popular online magazine/website at caribjournal. com for valuable information on all fabulous travel options and things of interest in the Caribbean.
Now that we're all working remotely Wouldn't you REALLY rather work from the beach?
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
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Name
Address
City/State/Zip
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
JULA'S ON THE POTOMAC
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
FRANKIE'S KITCHEN & COCKTAIL BAR
823 S. Washington St. 703-512-2118
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
MYSTIC BBQ & GRILL 220 N. Lee St. 703-565-9808 mysticbbqandgrill.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
ROYAL RESTAURANT 730 N. St. Asaph St. 703-548-1616
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
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
TOKYO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 66 Canal Center Plaza 703-683-8878
CAPHE BANH MI VIETNAMESE 407 Cameron St. 703-549-0800
ZUKI MOON 1909 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
ALEXANDRIA BIER GARDEN 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
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
Frankie’s Kitchen & Cocktail Bar Meet the New Kids on the Block:
Keeping up with all of the new eatery openings in the area has been a challenge these last couple of months but we are up to it!
Frankie’s Kitchen & Cocktail Bar is one of those new additions to the culinary scene in Old Town Alexandria. Located at 823 South Washington Street in the space formerly occupied by Faccia Luna, Tara Hopkins and her side kick Kevin Peck have transformed 823 into a very cool spot. Both Hopkins and Peck are veterans of the service industry with well over 20 years each in the business. Needless to say, their experience shows.
When we asked Tara what her vision was when she decided to delve into restaurant ownership, she confessed that “pizza” wasn’t exactly in the mix
but in doing her research (both economical and potential customer base), she decided that keeping the very expensive wood fi red pizza oven from the
former tenant was the thing to do since the majority of her potential client base asked “will you still have pizza?” and…removing the oven was costly. Turns out it was the thing to do.
After transforming the old space in to what we think is one of the best build outs around, Frankie’s is a very welcoming place. As you walk in, there are high tops in the window and along the north wall and a big horseshoe shaped bar and a large dining area with both booths and tables further back. The bar is where the action is since they have 13 craft cocktails on the menu, 6 beers on tap, 23 beer and cider offerings in cans/bottles and a fully stocked bar. While my favorite drink isn’t on the craft cocktail list, ask Tara to make you one of her
spicy margaritas! However, we did try the Artwork on Royal – Sazerac Rye, sweet vermouth & orange bitters. Had to order it just to see the labor intensive ice cube! Tara makes these herself and they consist of a square ice cube with a sweet vermouth gummy bear, fancy orange rind and a maraschino cherry frozen inside! The wine list covers all of the bases with 2 sparklers, 5 whites and 7 reds.
Even though pizza makes up a good portion of the menu, Frankie’s has an extensive (10) appetizer menu, a well-rounded choice of (7) salads, the Frankie’s Fontina Burger and two chicken based sandwiches and (7) pasta dishes including Granny’s Bolognese. They offer two “Kids’ pasta dishes and Tiramisu and chocolate mousse for dessert. In addition to the regular menu, there are specials offered each day.
Let’s start with the pizza. We aren’t going to describe all 17 of them in this space but let’s suffice to say that in addition to the 17 combos, you have the opportunity to “build your own”. They come in both 10” and 14” and there is a gluten free crust option. Speaking of crust, this place does it right as far as we are concerned. It isn’t paper thin and crisp nor is it thick and squishy, it is “just right” and the wood burning oven makes it taste extra special.
There is a combination for every personality including those vegans among us. Our go to pizza pretty much everywhere we order it is the “Hawaiian” – no judging from you anti-pineapple people! Frankie’s version is a combination of ham, pineapple and diced white onion. I often ask for fresh jalapeno with this combo and we normally wouldn’t order the onion but it adds a nice flavor profile so we order it just like it is. We have seen many of the pizzas that come out of this kitchen on our visits and they all look fantastic. Our appetizers of choice during our visits have included my very favorite, the Ahi Tuna Wontons – fresh ahi, marinated cucumbers, sesame seeds, pickled onions and wasabi sauce served on wonton crisps – and my partner’s favorite, the Pineapple Braised Sticky Ribs – slow cooked spare ribs in
a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze infused with aromatic spices and a hint of smokiness topped with zesty pickled jalapenos-amazing. On our latest visit, he ordered the Honey Garlic Shrimp and it is now running neck in neck with the ribs. In other visits with friends, we have had the opportunity to
taste the steak crostini, whipped feta dip, grilled wings and the meatballs with whipped ricotta. This leaves us with the bruschetta, Shisito peppers and eggplant parm left to try. Not a bad choice in the bunch.
We like to have a salad with our pizza and have had both the house and Caesar and neither disappoint. Fresh ingredients are important as well as a good dressing and these fit the bill. My favorite “full meal” salad is the Pan Asian Tuna with Sesame Ginger dressing. I am anxious to try the Grilled Chicken Cobb as well. Other salad offerings include Steak with Balsamic Vinaigrette, Arugula and Prosciutto with Champagne Vinaigrette and a Spinach with Balsamic Vinaigrette.
Neither of us has tried the burger or either of the chicken sandwich offerings. We have seen the burger come out of the kitchen and it is quite impressive – double burger patty, onion bacon jam, fontina cheese and a mayo based secret sauce
served on a Brioche bun with chips. Gluten free buns and hoagie rolls are available.
On our last visit we both ordered pasta as our main course – Crispy Chicken Parmesan and the pasta special of the day, Spinach & Ricotta Agnolotti. The Parm consists of panko-crusted chicken breast fried until nice and crispy then topped with fontina cheese and the house marinara accompanied by spaghetti. Order this if you are really hungry – it will hit the spot.
The Agnolotti is much lighter and just as flavorful with spinach, ricotta and pine nuts stuffed in the house made pasta served with pomodoro sauce topped with fresh arugula. The other pasta dishes sound equally as good as what we had and there is something for all of you pasta lovers.
We didn’t have room for dessert so…you are on your own with it! On top of it all, our service was spot on. The people who work here are happy.
Other amenities include, the pizza can be made to go, they have happy hour Mon-Sat from 3-7, are open for Brunch Sundays from 11:30 am2:30 pm, there is patio dining and the restrooms are really nice – BONUS. Not to mention lots of FREE covered parking in the building behind the restaurant.
Three Dazzling Ways to Prepare Oysters
Oysters Rockefeller: Elegance on a Half Shell
Oysters Rockefeller is a timeless classic that exudes sophistication and flavor in every bite. Named after the wealthy Rockefeller family for its richness, this dish is a culinary masterpiece that combines the delicate oyster with a sumptuous blend of herbs and sauces. Here's how you can recreate this opulent delight:
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh oysters, shucked (Whole Foods sells them for a dollar apiece on Fridays.)
- 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup Pernod (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 450°F
2. In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
3. Add the spinach and parsley, cooking until wilted.
4. Stir in the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Pernod, if using. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the shucked oysters on a baking sheet or grill.
6. Top each oyster with the spinach mixture.
7. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
8. Serve hot and enjoy dining like a Rockefeller.
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. 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 fine dining servers.
Ah, the luxurious oyster - a gem of the sea that captivates seafood enthusiasts with its briny essence and buttery texture. If you're looking to elevate your culinary experience and impress your guests, look no further. Here are three sensational ways to prepare oysters that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Let's dive into the sea world of oyster gastronomy!
Enjoy these crunchy delights as an appetizer or main dish, and revel in the joy of savoring the ocean's bounty in a crispy, flavorful coating. Dip them in your favorite sauce or enjoy them as they are – either way, fried oysters are sure to tantalize your taste buds with each delightful bite.
Fried Oysters: Crispy Goodness in Every Bite
Fried oysters are a delightful indulgence that combines the briny essence of the oysters with a crispy coating that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these golden nuggets of delight are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Here's how you can achieve fried oyster perfection:
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh oysters, shucked
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shucked oysters under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a heavybottomed pan to 350°F
4. Dredge each oyster in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and fi nally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
5. Carefully place the breaded oysters in the hot oil, in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
6. Fry the oysters for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning them once halfway through cooking.
7. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried oysters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. Serve the fried oysters hot with lemon wedges for a zesty touch.
Roasted Oysters: A Smoky Delight Straight from the Fire
Roasted oysters bring a rustic charm to the table, infusing the briny oysters with a kiss of smoke and a burst of savory goodness. This preparation method enhances the natural flavors of the oysters, making it a must-try for seafood aficionados. Here's how you can whip up this savory sensation:
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh oysters, in the shell
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Place the oysters directly on the grill grates, flat side up.
3. In a bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
4. Spoon the butter mixture over each oyster.
5. Close the grill lid and cook for about 5-8 minutes or until the oysters are cooked through.
6. Serve the roasted oysters hot off the grill with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Note: Try to get the larger, meatier oysters as the smaller tend to dry up small when cooked. And, slurp down a few raw oysters because you can.
CELEBRATE CELEBRATE
To Terroir or Not To Terroir?
The French word “Terroir” literally means soil or land. But, in the wine world it means so much more. We describe it as a “sense of place,” the uniqueness and individuality that a wine shows about where it was grown, the soil, topography and climate. As a winemaker over the past few decades, I have learned a bit about terroir. There are certainly plenty of people that know more, and there are education programs built around teaching others about the many wine regions, soils, grape types and history of the industry. The Master Sommelier rank is extremely rare and highly regarded. Jim Law, from Linden Vineyards, teaches that terroir is the ground, the grower and the grape.
This defi nition gives the winemaker a little more chance for expression and personality in the fi nished wine. Because if it was only about the soil or land, then why don’t wines grown in similar conditions taste the same?
others fit our monthly themes in flavor, color and back story. These drinks utilize our wines as a base and are jazzed up from there. Traditional winemakers might feel this is sacrilegious, but this is the business part of offering a product your customer will appreciate.
As a more traditional winemaker, I will always make wines that are from the land, respecting the grower, the vintage and the variety in a way that expresses each in the glass. This is the traditional artistry of the winemaker. But in the interest of making wines that sell a bit more, and feeding the customer the wines they want regularly, I make sure to have Tuesday wines as well. These wines are blended so they taste the same year after year. For example, our Paco Rojo is a lighter styled red wine that is perfect for a picnic, served chilled or room temp. It is important as a business and as an industry to keep flexible and make products the customers want. Our grapevines are in the ground for decades but the traditional wine from them may not always be what our guests want.
As the heat of the summer sets in, come out and visit or revisit a couple of your local wineries. See what they are offering, whether traditional or unconventional. We want our grapes to fi nd a home with you in any form. This keeps our local farmers working and our local businesses open. As Loudoun County, DCs Wine Country celebrates 40 years of winegrowing, we all appreciate your support and patronage over the decades. We are here for you and the next generation of artisan winemakers continues to improve on the quality that we started. We are well rooted in the culture!
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.
The survival of our young local wine industry is built around customers buying our wines and taking them home on a regular basis. That being said, are terroir driven wines the type of wines that our customer base will take home and consume consistently? In 2024 with products like White Claw, numerous local craft breweries, bourbon sitting strong in the market and all the other choices out there, what is the demand for our best, most artistic and expressive wines?
Visitors of many wineries are enjoying wine slushies, sweet, cold and refreshing on a hot day. Although I am not sure if these are as fashionable as they were a few years back. Many of the wineries have begun to carry beer or sparkling wines to give more options for folks. Here at Fabbioli Cellars, our wine cocktails have become popular. Some of our cocktails are more classic sangria style while
OPEN THURSDAY THROUGH MONDAY 11-5
PLEASE CALL FOR RESERVATIONS FOR GROUPS OF SIX OR MORE
15669 Limestone School Rd Leesburg, VA 20176 703.771.1197 • fabbioliwines.com info@fabbioliwines.com
Barboursville's Shakespeare at the Ruins
“Shakespeare at the Ruins” returns to Barboursville Vineyards this July with a month-long showing of “The Comedy of Errors”. The play will be held at the ruins of the home of James Barbour, located a short walk from Barboursville’s tasting room.
One of William Shakespeare’s earliest works, The Comedy of Errors tells the story of two sets of identical twins who were accidentally separated at birth but later reunited. The name of the play has since entered the English lexicon to describe “an event or series of events made ridiculous by the number of errors that were made throughout”.
The theater behind this show is Four Country Players, Central Virginia’s longest continuously operating community theater company. Founded in 1973, Four Country Players has performed everything from contemporary musical satires to Dickens classics.
Four Country Players came up with the idea of staging Shakespeare plays outdoors in 1990. Seeing the ruins’ potential as a unique backdrop, they approached Barboursville Vineyards to pitch the idea of a partnership. Barboursville accepted, and the troupe staged A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the winery later that year.
The Barboursville Ruins
The Barbour mansion is perhaps the perfect venue for outdoor events. Located in the heart of the breathtaking Barboursville Vineyards, the stately ruins with its nearby vineyards and high boxwood shrubs hosts everything from opera to weddings.
The mansion’s history adds to its allure. James Barbour served in a number of major offices, including Governor of Virginia, Secretary of War, and Minister to the United Kingdom. His red brick Flemish-bond home was constructed
between 1814 and 1822, designed by his neighbor and good friend Thomas Jefferson.
The building’s distinctive eight-sided design was inspired by 16th century Italian architect Andrea Palladio, whose book I quattro libri dell’architettura (The Four Books of Architecture) Jefferson referred to as his ‘bible’. Jefferson used Palladio’s octagon motif in many of his buildings, including his home at Monticello and “The Rotunda” at the University of Virginia.
When Barboursville winemaker Luca Paschina was researching the history of the estate, he came upon the story of how Jefferson believed the octagon shape was a symbol of “perfection and balance”. This description was exactly what Luca strives for, which led his flagship wine to be named “Octagon”.
For decades the mansion was one of the largest in the region, even having its own racetrack. The building was destroyed by fi re on Christmas Day, 1884.
Shakespeare Returns to Barboursville
Four Country Players ended its 16-year run in 2006 due to the need to renovate the deteriorating ruins. Fittingly, the fi nal production was All’s Well That Ends Well, directed by Clinton Johnston. Not wanting the tradition of Shakespeare to die, the annual production was moved back to its theater building in 2007.
Looking for a place to host outdoor events during the summer of 2019, Four County's Production Manager, Gary Warwick White, investigated the possibility of reviving Shakespeare at the Ruins. Gary approached former volunteers who had instrumental roles in the previous iteration and
received their support. When asked if they were interested in resuming their collaboration, the winery excitedly agreed.
Later that year, Four Country returned to the ruins with a showing of A Midsummer Night's Dream directed by Lydia Underwood Horan. COVID-19 forced a brief halt, but the summer tradition returned in 2022 with a showing of As You Like It directed by John Holdren.
Troupe member Edward Warwick explained in an email how he is excited to showcase Shakespeare’s more humorous side.
"I wasn’t around during the original run of Shakespeare at the Ruins, so having the opportunity to be a part of the return to the Ruins has been so special.
The Comedy of Errors is one of Shakespeare's funniest works, and I think audiences are really in for a treat and a wild ride!
It is such a unique experience; a wonderful show, a spectacular setting, Virginia wine, fi reflies, a symphony of crickets, spectacular sunset…you have to pause and take it all in. It's a wow moment."
Ticketing and Showtimes
The Comedy of Errors runs from July 12th - 27th at the historic Barboursville ruins. Shows will be held Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Tickets can be purchased at https://fourcp.org for $25.
Gates open at 6 PM. Shows start at 7:30 PM.
Guests use a separate entrance on Mansion Road that is only open for this event, not the one used for the vineyard/tasting room. The venue holds 400 seats.
The Palladio Restaurant at Barboursville Vineyards will have picnic baskets for sale, and Barboursville wine will be offered by the glass and bottle. The venue will also host both a savory and sweet food truck at each performance.
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/
Are Shots of Whiskey on a Golf Course a Good Idea?
The most recent research says no.
It’s 11:40 AM. I am at Lakeview Country Club in Morgantown, WV. It’s my fraternity’s annual golf outing.
Our group is the last group to tee off. This was a blessing. The peanut gallery was not in the background jeering at us. They had all already teed off and were playing on the holes ahead of us. I set up my tee, addressed the ball, and am about to swing.
“I’m glad my truck isn’t here this year!” My buddy Dave yelled behind me. Laughing ensued. So much for not being jeered.
Last year on my initial tee off, I hit the ball to the right at a 45-degree angle, which I normally couldn’t do if I tried. I almost took out the windshield of Dave’s truck. “Almost” being the key word in that sentence.
I flipped him off. Addressed the ball again, teed off, and sent the ball sailing right down the center of the fairway. A great drive. The jeering stopped, temporarily.
The active members of the fraternity were in the group in front of us. Like other fraternities, we refer to our current students as “actives”. We figured that, being young, they would soon be well ahead of us and passing the other alumni groups. We found out later that this was not their plan.
It was a beautiful day, perfect for golf. We played the fi rst nine holes at a good pace. Our beer of choice for this fun day of golf is a local craft beer called Country Roads Trust Lager from Big Timber Brewing Company in Elkins, WV. It’s a light, crisp, and refreshing lager. A great beer for golf. To make our experience almost honorable, 15% of the proceeds from sales go to The Country Roads Trust to support WVU’s athletes.
As we played, I got the usual verbal abuse about my “fancy” golf watch and the fact that I had new clubs. I stupidly mentioned that my wife and I had recently joined a country club. The comparisons to Judge Smails from the movie Caddyshack came flying.
“Hey Tim, did that hat come with the soup of the day? Oh, but it looks good on you though.”
“I bet you a thousand bucks that you slice into the woods!” And of course, I did.
“Bu-bu-bye! Bu-bu-bu-Bushwood!”
We fi nished the ninth hole and headed toward the tenth. The club has a snack shack at the tenth hole tee box. The fellows in the three groups who should have been golfi ng ahead of us are all partying. It seems that Jeff, one of the distinguished brothers from our era, brought a bottle of Whistle Pig 10 Year Rye to the snack shack. The entire golf course was about to back up because
no one was golfi ng. The actives were in the middle of it all, adding fuel to the fi re.
We jumped from our golf carts and headed right to the counter to order beers and pepperoni rolls. We were in West Virginia, so having a pepperoni roll is mandatory. I then joined the boisterous crowd to confer with my brothers. And also, to have a mandatory shot of Whistle Pig.
The actives were really enjoying having us old guys there. They had a blast drinking whiskey and beer with us. And of course, they were dying to hear stories from the days of old. Which we were obliged to share with them.
After a few minutes, wisdom and courtesy prevailed, and we continued to play golf. The groups began teeing off from the tenth, to the eternal delight of the golfers stuck behind us.
The actives had country music blaring from their golf cart. We didn’t tend to listen to country music back in our day. But times have changed, and it’s popular right now. And even though they were two strokes ahead of us on the course, we could hear them quite clearly.
They started to wait for us at each tee box. This was no longer golfi ng to them; it was a party. Michael, the son of my fraternity brother Paul, ran up to me with two cans of beer.
“Come on Timmy! Let’s shotgun beers!”
I had no intention of doing so. Again, wisdom and courtesy.
“Come on! Dad said that you were a legend!”
I relished the compliment. But this legend had to drive and did not need to shotgun beers.
Smitty from our group joined Michael and shot-gunned a beer with him. The actives were delighted.
We caught up to them again on the sixteenth hole. They were partying and dancing on the green with the golf cart girls. I totally got it. The golf cart girls were cute. At their age, I would be doing the same thing.
But I’m not their age. And at this point I’m really trying not to turn into my dad.
I yelled up to them “Guys! Come on!”
My buddy Devo yelled beside me “While we’re still young!” Another Caddyshack quote.
They putted and moved on to the seventeenth tee box. They were still there with the golf cart girls when we got there. We informed them that we were
playing through. They happily allowed us.
Tim’s Whiskey and Cigar Recommendations
We stopped further down the fairway, and all looked back at them from our golf carts.
“Were we like that?” I said laughing as I took a puff from my Romeo and Julieta 1875. It’s one of my favorite cigars for golfi ng. We were all having cigars at this point.
“Probably worse.” Dave said with a smile.
“We weren’t like that.” Smitty chimed in, “These guys are actually cool.”
We all cracked up.
After our round, we all headed to the club house. Michael’s father, Paul, was sitting outside.
“Where are the actives? Where’s Michael? Weren’t they ahead of you guys?”
“You may be waiting for a while.” I said with a snicker.
He rolled his eyes.
So, are shots of whiskey on a golf course a good idea? I’m going to go out on a limb here and say “no”. Although, I do have to admit, we all had a great time and the whiskey did add to the experience. Beer, cigars, and whiskey do go great with golf. But I suggest saving the whiskey for after your round.
There was a cookout for us at the fraternity house after the golf outing. I’m happy to report that all the actives showed up safe and sound. The party continued there for quite a while.
Bulleit Bourbon
I mentioned the Whistle Pig 10 Year Rye in the article. It’s a good golf whiskey and I recommended it back in the February issue. But I also need to recommend Bulleit Bourbon for an after-golf drink. The nose has vanilla and caramel. You get vanilla again on the palate, along with a peppery oak flavor and some cinnamon. This bourbon is smooth, delightful, and very affordable. At 90 Proof and bout $40 a bottle, it’s a great deal.
Romeo & Julieta 1875
The Romeo y Julieta 1875 is a great golfi ng cigar. I have heard it referred to as a real “walking the dog” smoke. It maintains a consistent 92 rating. The review from Cigars International describes it perfectly as having “strong, toasty flavors (that) smack of wood and leather. There’s a sweetness to the long fi nish.” This cigar is another go-to of mine. 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.
It was great to be back at our old fraternity house. We have great memories from our time there. The whole weekend was cathartic. Just as a great weekend with old brothers, and some new brothers, should be. The two days to recover when I got back home were totally worth it. Cheers!!
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 fl y doing in my soup? http:// whatfl yinmysoup.com
Indoor vs. Outdoor Pets and Community
Animals: The Debate Continues
The current consensus about American dogs focuses on their healthy lives as largely indoor pets who enjoy the outdoors while leashed or closely supervised by their humans. Some of the now-approved outdoor spaces for them include designated dog parks and public venues in cities and suburbs, and hunting with their humans in designated rural areas.
Whose Cats Are They Anyway?
But arguments about indoor versus outdoor cats rage on. In January 2024, Jonathan Franzen’s New Yorker article “The Cats of L.A.” ignited an Internet fi restorm about how America’s outdoor cat populations should be treated. Animal rights and rescue organizations weighed in on trapneuter-return (TNR) policies, indoor/outdoor cats, pet adoption, population management, wildlife predation, and animal control laws.
Franzen’s article and many media reactions to it raised various issues about outdoor cats that many believe should concern us all.
• What are our responsibilities toward socalled community cats who live outdoors exclusively? How can we manage their health and safety, and their populations?
• Should cats who are indoor pets be allowed outdoors? When and how can we safely share the outdoors with them?
• What do veterinarians, conservationists, birders, and animal control officers have to say about cats going outdoors, or living outside in our communities?
Community Cats and Their Lives Outdoors
Outdoor kitties used to be called strays or alley cats and were once thought to “belong” to no one. Yet American attitudes toward community cats
have changed significantly over the last 40 years. Animal rescue groups encourage feeding of cat colonies and promote trap-neuter-return (TNR) policies to control and care for these creatures, beloved by many in their neighborhoods.
But as Franzen and others note, even with the efforts of thousands of dedicated TNR and other volunteers nationwide, unfi xed outdoor cats still produce litters of kittens at regular intervals, often more than once a year. And community cats do hunt wildlife (particularly birds and small rodents) efficiently, even when they’re fed by humans.
What should communities do to effectively control their outdoor cat populations while allowing these cats to live full lives? Arguments abound over what life means to a cat without a human’s home.
Franzen writes that “A neighborhood overrun with cats is a spectacle of contradictions. . . . At the root . . . are difficult choices that haven’t been made.”
Cat lovers would respond that the incredible gains made in caring for community cats is hardwon progress that should be acknowledged and supported by lawmakers and the public. But many communities will face evolving challenges with them , including how to promote, fund, and perpetuate their care.
Indoor Cats and the Allure of “Outside”
Though cats were once all assumed to be indooroutdoor creatures, most American felines now live indoors. Veterinarians consider this safer and healthier for them, and their wildlife neighbors. Of course, cats remain carnivores with innate hunting instincts, which can be partially redirected with a little help.
Many articles and books published recently focus on how we can help cats enjoy the indoors and
outdoors safely while respecting the lives of wild (and other) creatures. Colleen Grablick wrote an overview in April for The Washington Post about her cat’s experience and her own research on what cats want or need when going outside. She highlights the main issues concisely:
• What do your cats want? Present your kitties with choices about the outdoors, acknowledging their age, experience, and temperament.
• Go slowly, at each cat’s pace and respecting his/her wishes and readiness.
• If you do bring your cats outside, supervise them at all times.
Grablick also addresses how to manage outdoor time with your cat if he or she already goes outside. Humans can help their cats accept a more indoor lifestyle by gradually introducing a leash and harness for walks. They can also use a catio, glassed-in spaces, or other outdoor enclosures to seemingly bring the outdoors inside. In any case, experts only recommend what Grablick calls “supervised hangs” outdoors.
Other animal behaviorists such as Mikel Maria Delgado, Ph.D., recommend playing with your pet to make indoor life healthier and more fulfilling. Delgado’s book Play with Your Cat! includes chapters on why cats play (because they hunt!), how to fi nd what works best for your cat, and which of many techniques could encourage your cat to hunt and play safely in your home.
Because We Love Them . . .
Dogs and cats remain the most popular indoor (and outdoor) animals in America , so what fosters their health and happiness will always concern those of us who love them. And we will, no doubt, continue to argue about what’s best for them all.
About the author: Steph Selice volunteered as an adoption counselor at King Street Cats in Alexandria for seven years.
Resources
Mikel Maria Delgado, Ph.D. Play with Your Cat! The Essential Guide to Interactive Play for a Happier, Healthier Feline. New York: TarcherPerigee, 2024.
Jonathan Franzen. “The Control of Nature: The Cats of L.A.” The New Yorker, January 1 & 8, 2024. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2024/01/01/how-the-no-kill-movement-betraysits-name
Colleen Grablick. “The Home You Own: How to (responsibly) let your cat outside.” The Washington Post, April 9, 2024. https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/04/09/how-tolet-cat-outside-outdoors/
CDC Information About Pets
“Healthy Pets, Healthy People,” CDC, November 8, 2023 https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/index.html
“What You Should Know about COVID-19 and Pets,” CDC, January 11, 2023 What You Should Know about COVID-19 and Pets | Healthy Pets, Healthy People | CDC
PETS OF THE MONTH
Mooney & Juney
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
4101 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 22304
703-838-4774
www.alexandriaanimals.org
Animal Welfare League of Arlington 2650 S. Arlington Mill Drive Arlington, VA 22206 703-931-9241 www.awla.org
Fairfax County Animal Shelter 4500 West Ox Road Fairfax, VA 22030 703-830-1100
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter
King Street Cats 25 S. Dove Street Alexandria, VA 22314 703-231-7199
www.kingstreetcats.org
Operation Paws for Homes, Inc. (Dog rescue for VA, MD, DC, and south central PA) P.O. Box 90813 Alexandria, VA 22309 703-344-7320 ophrescue.org
Friends of Rabbits www.friendsofrabbits.org
Rikki’s Refuge Animal Sanctuary (1300 animals and 22 species on 450 acres) P.O. Box 1357 Orange, VA 22960 540-854-0870 By appointment: tours@rikkisrefuge.org events@rikkisrefuge.org www.rikkisrefuge.org
Faye & Harmony
Mimi
Mimi is a 58-pound 2-year old female pup who is as happy-go-lucky as she is adorable. Mimi has never met a stranger and is extremely social. She greets everyone with an enthusiastic wagging tail, irresistible charm and her signature big "smiles." Mimi loves to explore the play yards and go on walks. She is currently undergoing (and doing very well with) her clicker training and is learning lots of new tricks and cues. If you're looking for an energetic, affectionate dog to enjoy life's adventures with, Mimi is your gal! To meet Mimi, email adoptions@AlexandriaAnimals. org or call 703-746-4774, option 2 alexandriaanimals.org Alexandria, VA 703-746-4774
Mooney and Juney are a pair of adorable male guinea pigs. They're both just over 1 year old. They are both friendly, easygoing and love hanging out together in their “pigloo”. They are always excited to see a new visitor and will quickly bound over to accept tasty treats like greens, carrots, celery and apples. This piggie pair are entertaining with their outgoing personalities and happy chirps. This dynamic duo needs to nd a home where they can stick together. They are both in a foster home. To meet them, email adoptions@AlexandriaAnimals.org or call 703-746-4774, option 2
Faye and Harmony are bonded bunny buds searching for a home together. They are both estimated at 1.5 years old and are female Rex bunnies. Rex rabbits are known for being calm, affectionate, playful and intelligent -- and those are perfect words to describe this duo. Throughout the day, you can nd them hanging out together, enjoying enrichment activities like hay tubes and bunny boxes. They both seem to love romaine lettuce and carrots the best, but they'll also settle for timothy biscuits and apple sticks. They will both greet you when you arrive beside their habitat and will gladly take snacks right from your hand.
Beach Bag Swag
With unbearable temperatures and stifling humidity, looking glam on the go isn’t always easy. Looking fly in Summer is especially difficult when we take our much-needed getaways and can’t rely on drawers full of products. That’s why smart beauty girls know the key to always looking your best is being prepared with a cleverly stocked arsenal. This month First Blush offers a handy guide to the essential beach bag must haves with this cheat sheet of everything you need to feel beautiful and have fun in the sun on vacation.
Silicone wallet
These adorable candy-colored silicone wallets by Wucci Wide are an absolute must have for any beach bag. Not only are they affordable and durable, they are water resistant. Both fun and functional, use it to store everything from your hotel key and credit cards to your Chapstick and sunscreen. They even have a cute kiss lock closure so it can double as your poolside clutch!
Sunforgettable Mineral Sunscreen Brush
Easily the coolest new innovation in sunscreen, Sunforgettable SPF 30 is perfect for those of us who hate the greasy, just-waiting-for-a-breakout feel of slathering on lotion formula sunscreen. This self-dispensing brush provides your sun protection in a sheer, lightweight, water-resistant mineral powder with a barely-there feel that’s easy to apply and reapply throughout the day. The best part? Choose from six shades to also achieve light foundation coverage to even out your complexion, and enjoy the skin-fi rming benefits of red seaweed extract. Gone are the days of fumbling with your sunglasses and magazine while leaving greasy fi ngerprints everywhere.
Beach towel
A trip to the beach just isn’t complete without the cutest, brightest beach towel you can fi nd. Instead of grabbing just any old dingy towel in your bathroom, why not consider a unique beach towel full of colorful personality? Plus, you can mark your spot in the sand and you’ll never get lost after one too many coronas again. Check out some of your go-to sites to fi nd a great towel that suits your style. Try Anthropologie's dreamy batik watercolor towels--currently on sale! Another great option is L.L. Bean's bright, generously sized towel--they dry quickly and don't fade!
Wipes
Not a lot of people think to include wipes in their beach tote, but I am a fi rm believer that they are the ultimate life saver. After a long, sweaty day of applying and reapplying greasy sunscreen and trying to rinse off every last remnant of sand, beat the heat with some refreshing and handy wet wipes. But who wants to use plain old baby wipes? If you enjoy the little things in life, you'll love Blue Q's adorable, hilarious, and refreshing citrus wet wipes. With quirky, inspiring sayings like "You're not Obsessive, You're Compulsively Awesome," these are as cute to look at as they are convenient.
Beach Sounds Portable Speaker
A day at the beach just isn't complete without the right musical soundtrack. With screeching seagulls and boisterous children surrounding you, sometimes you need some good vibrations to get you in a relaxed mood. Beach Sounds Portable Speakers allow you to rock out at the beach or poolside without worrying about sandy grit or water destroying your electronics. I love the bright, sunny colors and retro look, and the fact that it plays MP3s, smartphones, and the radio! Rock on.
Cooling Spray
Sometimes a dip in the water just isn't enough to stave off the brutal summer temperatures, and saltwater and chlorine can prove harmful and drying on your skin. I like to stash a cooling spray like Evian's Mineral Water Spray in my beach bag to spritz myself between dips. This delightfully cool cleansing mist rehydrates dry, sun-scorched skin, removes sticky perspiration, relieves a painful sunburn, and even revives your makeup!
Leave-in conditioner
Everyone loves achieving that sexy, voluminous beach hair look, but drying salt water and damaging sunshine can leave your strands looking dull, damaged, and dry. After a day of playing in the waves your mane can become an unmanageable, tangled mess. To keep your locks hydrated, healthy,
and nourished, I make sure to use a leave-in conditioner prior to my fun in the sun. I love Sachajuan's weightless and oil-free leave-in conditioner. The silky formula not only provides excellent body and super shine, but it keeps your hair and scalp healthy and hydrated. It even doubles as a styling primer! Take a shower in the morning or thoroughly dampen hair and comb in the product from root to tip. Fasten your hair into a cute side braid or sleek chignon, and let the searing rays of the sun act as a heat treatment. The product will seep into the hair shaft, and when you've had enough sun and you're ready for happy hour, you'll be looking smooth and sexy, not frizzy and fried.
Bikini Bump
If you're anything like me, routinely maintaining your bikini line is probably the thing you hate the most about the summer season. Not only can it be irritating or downright painful, but you always end up with unsightly redness and ingrown hairs. It can make you more self conscious than the skimpiest bikini, so save yourself some grief by investing in a product to prevent and eliminate ingrown hairs. My go-to is Completely Bare's Bikini Bump Blaster. These handy pads contain both glycolic and salicylic acids that clear away the dead skin cells which clog pores and hair follicles, as well as blocking bacteria buildup. Nude beach, anyone?
Obesity in America is a big problem. We as a society are getting fatter each year. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one-third of U.S. adults are obese. Some of the leading causes of death in this country include obesity related conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. With that being said, I believe it may be time to take a closer look at how food and fitness play such an important role in the longevity and quality of this modern life.
Today the term “you are what you eat” can have a very bad outlook if you consider what we are putting into our bodies. So much of what we eat is processed and manufactured to the point that when we consume this “food” our bodies don’t know what to do with it. The human body is meant to break down foods that come from natural sources such as whole grains, fresh produce, and natural sources of protein. Food should be seen as a source of energy for the body. When we eat clean natural food, our bodies can use
every molecule. Each molecule goes to someplace in the body where it can be used and does something positive for your health.
Protein molecules go to building and repairing tissue. Healthy fats are used to lubricate cells and keep things like hair, skin and other organs healthy. Molecules from complex carbohydrates are broken down and used as energy for the body to carry out its daily processes. Fiber is used to clean out our system and water carries important nutrients where they need to go. When every little bit of food is used up there is nothing left to store as excess fat. However, when our digestive system encounters something that’s not found in nature, like a lot of the processed, chemically charged, sugar-fortified food that we see everywhere today, it simply sticks it in a fat cell and leaves it, since there is nothing else it can do. This is where the problem of excess body weight begins. The meals we eat should consist of lean protein, fresh fruit and vegetables and complex carbohydrates. Not sugar, caffeine
Fit or Fat???
and partially hydrogenated foods that seem to be more abundant and cheaper than what is really good for you.
When it comes to the battle of losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight, I am sure that many people believe that if you work out hard enough you can essentially eat what you want. The idea that if you simply burn off more calories than you take in would lead one to the conclusion that this will cause weight loss. For the most part this is not incorrect. However, what if someone told you that 80% of weight management is diet? What if someone said that your weight could be controlled simply by monitoring what food goes into your system? It is almost crazy to think that 80% of weight management is diet, a mere 10% is exercise and the other 10% is genetics. But it’s true! Now, I am not saying that exercise should not be part of a healthy routine, but the fact is that you can change the way you look and feel just by changing what you eat. In fact, your workouts will feel much less like a chore and more
something that you look forward to. Think of what you eat more as a way to fuel your body and feed your muscles so that every working part can perform at optimum levels.
If what you eat is clean, healthy, and well-balanced meals then that’s what you will feel like. If you rely on fast food and artificial energizers all you will get is a quick buzz before you come crashing down again. Diet should be based on the best way to fuel a workout, and not base your workout on how to work off those extra empty calories.
When you put good healthy food into your system what you get in return is more energy, a healthier complexion, less health problems and more energy. Oh, did I say that twice? Yes, you will have more energy, and not the kind you get from drinking a cup of coffee with a snickers bar. I cannot mention enough how much better you feel when what you consume is actually used up by the body and not stored in some fat molecule. Eating a healthy diet is the fi rst step to maintaining a healthy weight.
This Summer's Ultimate Core and Balance Exercise: The Weight Plate Horseshoe
Welcome back to another edition of From the Trainer!
Hope everyone has enjoyed the summer so far with plenty of sunshine, heat, and humidity on the way. July has a couple of important dates to note. The fi rst is the celebration of our nation’s Independence from Great Britain on the 4th. The next day is my father’s birthday and Alexandria’s 275th Anniversary celebration on the 13th.
There are plenty of reasons to celebrate this month which generally involves burgers, brats, and beer. Keep your health & fitness goals in mind while enjoying the summer
BBQ’s. Eat and drink in moderation. Take advantage of all the local farmers’ markets by purchasing the fresh fruit and vegetables while supporting the area farmers as well as your health! My family farms in Wyoming and I know they appreciate when people support and recognize all the hard-working families that bring food to your table. With that said, I’ll move on to another exercise that can help you stay fit. I call it the Weight Plate Horseshoe. It targets the shoulders and upper trapezius muscles. I really enjoy this exercise because it challenges your
balance, abdominal strength, and provides resistance from multiple directions. Many variations of this exercise exist, but I’ll describe just one version.
Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart holding a weight plate at one side with your arms straight (Figure 1). I suggest using a 10lb plate for women and a 25lb plate for men. Using your shoulders to lift, bring the plate up and out to the side of your body while keeping the arms straight. Continue to rotate the weight above your head (Figure 2), and then slowly let it down on the opposite side in the
same fashion (Figure 3).
A few things to remember during the exercise: Control the weight at all times. Avoid twisting your spine. Contract the abdominals while lifting, this helps stabilize the torso and isolates the shoulders better.
At this point, you’re only halfway through the exercise. Rotate the weight plate in the opposite direction to complete the “horseshoe”. This counts as only one repetition. Try one set of 8-10 reps before progressing to more sets and reps. You can add this exercise to any workout for variation. If you like more of a challenge,
stand on top of a Bosu Balance Trainer to involve more of the legs. Enjoy the Weight Plate Horseshoe along with all the other fun summertime activities this month!
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.
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The Slug is Your Adversary
Slugs may be a very serious problem to you if you live in moisture-laden areas of the country. A single “lawn prawn” can successfully remove an entire row of seedlings from your garden in no time at all. He can turn a perfect plant into Swiss cheese over night and return to the safety of his hideaway, leaving you to wonder what happened. As slugs wander about, doing their evil little slug deeds, they leave behind them a trail of slime that amounts to nothing less than a road sign for themselves and every other slug to follow to the grand feast.
To make the situation even worse, slugs are hermaphrodites, they all have male and female reproductive systems. Yes, they can mate with themselves, and in the privacy of their own abode, each slug will produce two to three dozen eggs several times a year. The egg clusters look like little piles of whitish jelly BB sized balls. They will hatch in anywhere from 10 days to three weeks or longer, and these “sluglings” can mature to adulthood in as little as six weeks. Destroy the eggs... wherever you fi nd them. Slugs may live for several years, getting larger with proportionately larger appetites each year. Now, do you really want to go out to your garden some morning and fi nd an 18-inch Banana Slug waiting for you?
The Battles and the War
Although you may never win the war against snails and slugs entirely, you owe it to your plants to fight them with every weapon at your disposal. You can control slug populations with several different methods. With each battle that you win, you have prevented hundreds of new slugs from hatching.
The Battlefield
As with any battle plan, it is to your advantage to be able to set the field. Set your field by cleaning your garden, and eliminating the places where the slugs hide, sleep, and reproduce.
Pulling the weeds from your garden is something you need to do anyway. As you pull each weed, you remove a potential slug outpost.
Keep all decaying matter cleaned out of your beds. While leaves make good mulch, once they begin to compost they become food and shelter for slugs and snails. Prune the branches of any shrubs that are laying on the ground. Keep the old leaves and such cleaned out. By doing this you will have destroyed yet another slug haven!
Cultivate your soil regularly to keep the dirt clods broken up, and unearth any slugs that may have burrowed under the surface. The shaded areas beneath decks can be a slug arena: keep them weed and litter free. Just about anything can become a slug home. Boards, rocks, pots and other gizmos should be kept out of the garden. Keep the lawn edges trimmed. Slugs will congregate under the umbrella of unkept grass.
The Weapons – Hand to Hand Combat & Chemical Warfare
For the sake of the environment, it is better to make an effort to control slugs and snails without using chemicals and poisons before you resort to chemical warfare.
Hand to hand combat:
• Keep slug pokers stuck around the garden at random. Meet your enemy, one on one. Your weapon is at hand, impale them!
• Fill a small bowl with stale beer. Put it in the areas where the slugs are active. Stale beer attracts the slugs and they drown. You may also use grape juice or a tea made from yeast, honey and water.
• An early morning stroll around the garden, salt shaker in hand will often result in many casualties for the bad guys.
• Destroy any and ALL slug eggs you fi nd!
• Bait and destroy tactics work. Set a pile of slightly dampened dry dog food in an area frequented by slugs. In the morning and evening visit the feeding station a few times.... slug poker in hand!
• Battle lines made of Cedar bark or gravel chips spread around your plant will irritate and dehydrate slugs. The sharp edges of crushed eggshells around the plants will cut and kill slugs. The calcium in the eggshells is a good soil amendment anyway!
• Sprinkle a line of lime around your plants. (Obviously this won't work around plants requiring a more acidic soil)
• Certain herbs (Rosemary, lemon balm, wormwood, mints, tansy, oak leaves, needles from conifers and seaweed will repel slugs. However using a mulch of these plants will
only turn the slugs away, in search of other food sources.
• Oat bran will kill slugs when they eat it... sprinkle some around.
Chemical Warfare:
Probably the most popular, most effective, and easiest method of controlling slugs is by using commercial slug bait products. These may be purchased in the form of meal, pellets, powder, or liquid. The primary concern of using chemical baits and poisons is the possibility of poisoning small critters, creatures and even small children. Always follow the instructions to the letter, and go the extra steps necessary to insure that the poisons are inaccessible to anything but slugs and snails. Make traps to collect slugs out of plastic pop bottles. Cut the bottle in half and then invert the top part of the bottle into the bottom part to create a no escape entryway. The slug bait can be placed inside the bottle and will draw the slugs in where they will die and await disposal.
Commercial, disposable slug traps may be purchased at many garden centers. Quite a bit more expensive, but they work! At the very least, cover the bait with a weighted piece of wood or an old shingle to prevent access to the poison. The slugs will still fi nd it, consume it, and die.
Surprise Tactics:
Try as you might, the war against slugs will go on as long as there are gardens. You will never win, but you can keep them under control. Remember that for every slug you destroy, you are preventing countless generations of that slug's offspring. You may want to consider offering a bounty on slugs in your neighborhood. It might amaze you how many slugs an ambitious young person can gather up at a nickel a head.
Organize a 'Slug Derby' with some small prize for the biggest slug, the ugliest slug, person with the most captured slugs, etc. A grand event for any neighborhood, to be sure! As you wage your war on slugs and snails, you are almost certain to be 'slimed' at least once. YUK! Mix up a little warm water and vinegar, and use this formula to remove the slime from your hands like magic!
Publishers Note: Log on to TheGardenHelpers.com for a complete guide on July garden tips.
GO FISH STEVE CHACONAS
Fish Can’t Stand the Heat!
An integral element of bass tournaments is conservation.
Anglers bring 5 fish to weighin scales at the end of 8 hour days. It’s widely accepted by tournament anglers that keeping fish alive in livewells, through release, during hot summer months is challenging even though modern livewell systems provide aeration to keep fish alive. Replacing water several times a day keeps water fresh. Ice, additives, and replacing livewell water can get fish to scales, but by the time a fish in livewell captivity is released, survivability is challenged. Anglers watching their fish swim away assume they’ve done their jobs as conservationists.
Fish die during tournaments (initial mortality) before being weighed and released, albeit in small numbers. But after further review, fisheries managers have determined there’s delayed mortality, where some fish released after tournaments die. MD DNR Statewide Operations Manager biologist Dr. Joe Love says they generally see floating dead fish that succumbed to delayed mortality within 48 hours after a tournament. For at least 2 decades tournaments across the country have seen and documented delayed mortality.
Public perspective concerns should concern anglers.
The sight of dead fish, combined with the odor as they decompose in boat launch and dock areas, does nothing to support the sport of tournament fishing. Dr. Love
says MD DNR and anglers should work together to avoid negative public perception of tournament fishing. As delayed mortality becomes more visible, the outcry to ban these events will only increase.
Early bass tournaments didn’t emphasize fish care. Tournament fish were released to the grease, none were to swim again. Eventually a gradual process of enhanced care, with catch and release in the name of conservation, evolved and has been improved upon with technology and changing angler attitudes. Fish survival is further encouraged with dead fish penalties.
From a fishery management perspective, Dr. Love says, “Delayed mortality adds to total mortality and as we remove more and more large fish from the fishery, then the fishery could be compromised.” Eventually anglers won’t be catching the lunkers they prefer and may catch fewer fish. Fish caught early in the season might be missing from that spawn or removed from nests, thus reducing overall fish population growth.
In addition, anglers catching their limits during the day release smaller fish as they catch larger replacements. While there’s no data on this procedure, fish caught and released during the day could succumb to delayed mortality. Delayed mortality data of fish released during the day is uncertain as death isn’t always immediate or obvious
as injured or gut hooked fish might swim away.
MD DNR and The Black Bass Advisory Committee have put tournament mortality on the top of many discussions. Better fish care is researched and presented to tournament anglers and available to the public. The easiest way to prevent overall mortality is fishing with barbless hooks to cut down on lethal gut hooks. For widely accepted fish care practices, MD DNR partnered with BassCat Mercury pro Mike Iaconelli to demonstrate fish care in an online video. A series of MD DNR fish care videos are on the Department site. Keeping Bass Alive, the complete guidebook for tournament anglers and organizers, is here: https://dnr. maryland.gov/fisheries/pages/ bass/ta.aspx
and the MD DNR Bass Class with conservation tips: https:// dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/ pages/conserve-bass.aspx.
Tournament anglers can do their part on tournament day by ensuring batteries are charged. Keeping livewells fully operational, frequently exchanging water throughout the day, and high aeration is essential as oxygen rapidly depletes in closed containers, particularly during summer.
As reported by tournament directors, mortality at the scales is decreasing. However, this varies with water and air temperatures. Dr. Love adds the presence of largemouth bass virus can also have a higher impact on fish survival after release. As the impact of bass mortality on the Potomac River remains to be seen, the overall population remains robust, according to Dr. Love.
“I've seen some nice fish come across the scales; also, reports from our staff and those from Virginia suggest the fishery is doing really well.”
Getting the true measure of delayed mortality is difficult and requires monitoring fish following a tournament for up to 3 or 4 days to observe mortality. Containing fish from tournaments in net pens, tagging studies, and in the hatchery for long-term monitoring is difficult and comes with complications. It’s not routinely done.
There’s no dispute that delayed mortality is greater during summer with up to 40% of caught fish during a tournament experiencing
delayed mortality, which is why the DNR and the BBAC stress the importance of implementing best management practices during summer (lowering creel limits, using catch-photo-& release, or catch-weigh & release). Shorter events and starting earlier in the day can also improve summer bass survival. Reducing the number of summer tournaments is likely the best plan to reduce delayed mortality.
Ultimately, it’s up to tournament anglers to maximize livewell efficiency no matter the season. Tournament directors need to have a smooth weigh in process to avoid further stressing the fish. As more anglers take to the waters, all anglers other than tournament competitors need to take better care of their fish as delayed mortality can occur from any type of fishing activity.
Author Capt. Steve Chaconas is Potomac bass fi shing guide & freelance writer. Potomac River reports: nationalbass. com. YouTube video channel NationalBassGuide.
It’s time to frog fish! 50 pound test Gamma Torque Braid and cast to the thick grass! The strikes are explosive. Other grass techniques include using swim jigs and bladed jigs
in craw, black/blue, or white patterns. Tie to 30 pound test Gamma Torque braid.
For pitching docks and holes in the grass, use Mizmo tubes Texas rigged on 16 pound test Gamma Edge fluorocarbon.
Drop shot and shaky head on deeper drops. Use 15 pound Gamma Torque main line with 12 pound Edge leader. Green pumpkin colors are good.
Potomac River Bassing in JULY
Freedom Isn’t Free
When I was a teenager, I chomped at the bit for freedom and independence. I wanted to break free of my parents’ rules and wanted to be independent to live by MY rules—which would be nonexistent because—hey—how can you have fun with rules?
I was tired of living my life without any agency over it. Between dad enforcing his militant commands to teachers burdening me with their ridiculous rules such as no pencil fighting or gum chewing. Obviously, phones were not a thing and pagers didn’t happen until high school. And General Welch put his foot square down on that technology for which I am forever grateful. At the time, the only freedom within my reach was a driver’s license and a car. I would no longer be tied to my parents’ apron strings and could drive away with the wind in my hair. I wouldn’t have to ‘just wait a minute’ for them to fi nish whatever
they were doing to take me to Burger King or the movies or my friend’s house. I could leave when I wanted and arrive on my own time. If I wanted to stop at High’s for a can of Diet Coke, I could. If I wanted to do a drive by at the pool to see if Mike’s Camaro was there—which would mean my crush Philip would be there—I wouldn’t have to make up an excuse to tell my mom. And, let’s face it, nothing says uncool like doing a drive by with your mom as your pilot.
So, I got a part-time job after school when I was 15 so I could save for the down payment for the car— which I got just shy of my 16th birthday. She was a beauty—a bright apple green 1976 Pontiac Firebird. My uncle even gave her a new paint job as my birthday present.
Freedom was mine at last.
As I would quickly learn, however, the bank also had rules in the form of a
payment book which was promptly given to me with my name inked on every page. They expected their money by the 15th of each month. Then there was the guy over at State Farm who wanted his money every six months. Kind of him, right? Then there was the Texaco gas station that gave me the freedom to swipe my card, but sent a lovely bill to the house—again with my name on it—every month.
The rules had been replaced with responsibility.
That was okay though because I loved my independence, and I craved more so when a couple of “more cooler”, older friends invited me to move in with them when I was 19, I jumped at the opportunity. Bye, bye rules—hello, adulthood.
Little did I know that roommates also had rules— which is not a bad thing— otherwise, we would have been living in squalor. Contrary to popular belief,
girls are not averse to dirt and filth. Common bathrooms had to be cleaned daily— same with the kitchen. No leaving peanut butter smears on counters after 2:00 am grazings. Dirty dishes had to be cleaned and put away. Group chores were done on Saturday mornings. And rent could not be late. Utilities would be divided three ways, and our parts were to be paid on time.
Bosses had rules too, but at least I got a paycheck in return.
I say this as a reminder that while freedom is sweet, it comes with a price which we all have to pay in some way—some more than others—and to those who pay the ultimate price, words are not enough.
As we celebrate our independence on the 4th, it’s a good time to remember that our founding fathers didn’t toss their powdered wigs up in the air after winning the war, kick their feet up,
and await the bounties of life—without taxation— to be tossed into their laps. No—they rolled up their puffy sleeves and got to work creating a new vision for our country which some 200+ years later, we still reap the benefits of.
Freedom isn’t free and nor should it be. We should all be willing to earn our way and pay it back to those who fought with their lives, and pay it forward to those we can. Although I do often wish I could go back to a time when freedom was on someone else’s dime— namely, my parents’.
Cheers to a happy and safe 4th!
A bout 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.
Get Your Summer On in the Harbor!
There’s always something going on in the Harbor on the Plaza and when there isn’t, the fantastic “People Watching” is free. Hopefully, the heat wave we have been experiencing will take a break and make taking advantage of the many activities a much more pleasant experience. While we listed a few of the following activities in last months column, you will fi nd a bit more information about them here.
KIDS DAY ON THE PLAZA
Join in for a morning of fun at National Harbor’s Kids Day brought to you by M-NCPPC! Grab the kiddos and head to National Harbor for Kids Day every Tuesday at 10:30 am through August. Enjoy the summer sunshine and a rotation of family friendly activities on the Plaza.
SALUTE THE SUNSET CONCERT SERIES
Saturday evenings throughout the summer are military band nights at National Harbor. Bring a chair and enjoy an evening with performing ensembles from a variety of United States military bands at 7pm.
4th – Air Force Band Airmen of Note – 2 pm. 6th & 13th – Air Force Band Max Impact 17th – “The Band of the Nation’s Capital” – 257th Army Band 20th – Air Force Singing Sergeants
FRIDAY SUMMER SOUNDS
Stroll the streets of the Waterfront District every Friday from 5 - 7pm for National Harbor's Summer Sounds. Enjoy a rotation of music from Bobby McKey's and local artists.
Soar 180 feet above the Potomac River this summer on The Capital Wheel. Purchase your summer ticket package today! www.thecapitalwheel.com
TOPGOLF NATIONAL HARBOR
Buy a Summer Fun Pass and enjoy unlimited Topgolf game play all summer long for you and up to five Guests through August 31 (weekdays until 4pm).
FREE FITNESS CLASSES
Get ready to break a sweat with the free summer fitness series brought to you by Onelife Fitness. Join in for some fitness, fun, and community - right by the water's edge. Whether you're a seasoned fitness enthusiast or just starting your wellness journey, these classes cater to all levels and interests.
Weekly classes run through September 30 and include Monday Bootcamps at 7pm, Tuesday Just Dance Classes at 7pm and Saturday Yoga at 10am. Don't miss the Silver Strides series on the third Wednesday through August at 10:30am.
ROCK’N RAFTUP CONCERT SERIES AT THE HARBOR MARINA
Get out on the water and enjoy an evening of musical performances at the National Harbor Marina's Rock'n Raftup Concert Series. Bring your own boat or rent one from Monumental Boat Tours to enjoy the free show taking place on Freedom Pier.
MOVIES ON THE POTOMAC
Pack your chairs, grab food to go from one of the delicious dining establishments, and meet at the Plaza’s big screen for free fun!
The Movies on the Potomac series runs through September 29. Thursday nights feature date night movies at 7pm, Sunday nights feature family friendly films at 6pm.
For full details on these happenings, log on to the National Harbor website and search for Events. www.nationalharbor.com 4th –
– Are you there God? It’s me Margaret.
Have a happy and safe Fourth of
and stay cool out there…literally!
RIDE THE CAPITAL WHEEL
Pearmund Cellars
Featuring the finest in VA Wine and Wine Experience less than an hour from Old Town Alexandria
WORLD CLASS WINES:
Viognier Best in Class, Harvest Challenge Petit Verdot Best Red Wine AWS Rose’—Best in Class—East Meets West Petit Manseng-Double Gold, SFIWC Ameritage-Double Gold, San Francisco Chronicle
WORLD CLASS ATMOSPHERE:
Adult only Winery, with 30 acres of vineyard and picnic space, open seven days a week. Family Friendly Farmstore open Fri-Sun, featuring wines from local wineries, parlor rooms, artisan goods and crafts.
WORLD CLASS EXPERIENCE:
Along with our Wines, we have Beer from Sinistral Brewing Company, Brick Oven Pizzas and charcuterie, educational luncheons and dinners, hands on wine making experiences and private, catered events by request.
