September 2013 Magazine

Since 1988–Priceless

September 2013

From the Bay to the Blue Ridge

Business Profile

Grapevine

IN TUNE WITH THE CAPITOL STEPS

JEFFERSON VINEYARDS Keeping It Real in the Shadow of Monticello

Personality Profile

Dining Out

TIM GEARY

BACK CREEK BISTRO AT CALVERT MARINA

He’s One of a Kind

Prime Rib, Cocktails and Music

oldtowncrier.com

Landini’s

Setting TheZAGAT Standard In Old Town For2006 Over 37 Years AWARD OF EXCELLENCE

AND THE PAST 15 YEARS

115 King Street Old Town Alexandria 115 King Street 703-836-8404 Old Town Alexandria landinibrothers.com 703-836-8404

G - 11 pm N I RK :30

PArday 5 T E AL atu

V y&S da

Fri

Franco and Noe welcome you!

COME FOR THE FUN, STAY FOR THE FOOD! Old Town’s Favorite Raw Bar Featuring the Freshest Shellfish in Virginia Fish Market has continued to rise above the tide with its winning recipe for success–good, fresh seafood, excellent service and a great location.

Such dedication to high quality and customer service has helped launch Fish Market as an Old Town landmark since 1976!

105 & 107 King St. Old Town Alexandria

703.836.5676 fishmarketva.com

Eat Fish, Drink Beer, Live Longer!

VALET PARKING Friday & Saturday 5-11 pm

september’13 A Division of Crier Media Group 112 South Patrick Street Alexandria, Va. 22314 phone: 703. 836. 0132

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36

20

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

Worth waiting for!

PUBLISHER Bob Tagert MARKETING & ADVERTISING Lani Gering Bob Tagert DESIGN & PRODUCTION Electronic Ink 9 Royal Street, SE Leesburg, Va. 20175 CONTRIBUTORS Chris Anderson Vincent Arrunategui Peggie Arvidson Sarah Becker F. Lennox Campello Steve Chaconas Doug Coleman Ashley Denham Busse Patricia Dashwood Jaime Elliott Doug Fabbioli Nicole Flanagan Lani Gering John Harrington Reed Hellman Spencer Hill Elizabeth Jones Frances Killpatrick Miriam Kramer Genevieve LeFranc Julie Reardon Chris Sky Shaw Chester Simpson Bob Tagert Carl Trevisan Ryan Unverzagt Lori Welch Neil Williamson Molly Winans Sylvia Winterling

Alexandria Calendar

2

Exploring Virginia Wines

8

Financial Focus

39

National Harbor

48

On the Road

1

After Hours

17

First Blush

45

Personality Profile

4

Art & Antiques

15

Fitness

42

Pets of the Month

13

Behind the Bar

34

From the Bay…

22

Points on Pets

12

5

A Bit of History

6

2

From the Trainer

43

Publisher’s Notes

Caribbean Connection

18

Gallery Beat

14

Road Trip

20

Chef’s Special

32

Gigs & Digs

16

Single Space

47

Business Profile

Civil Discourse

9

Go Fish

41

Spiritual Renaissance

35

Dining Guide

28

Grapevine

36

The Last Word

11

Dining Out

30

High Notes

10

Virginia Wine Trail Profiles

38

© 2013 Crier Media Group, Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

The Old Town Crier is published monthly and distributed to selected Alexandria residents, hotels, restaurants and retail shops. Also distributed in the Annapolis, Fredericksburg, Blue Ridge and Washington, DC areas as well as St. John, USVI.

On the road with OTC Follow us on Facebook at Old Town Crier Regional Magazine facebook.com/oldtowncrier

Old Town Crier

Local Alexandrian and Old Town Crier fan, Linda White, and her daughters, Claire and Emily Sedlak, take a break during their visit to the wilds of West Virginia and their excellent adventure to Monongahela National Forest! If you would like to see your picture here, take the OTC with you on your next trip, snap a high resolution photo and send it along with information for the caption to office@oldtowncrier.com.

About the cover

Night view of the Potomac river near Harpers Ferry, WV. photo: Chester Simpson

September 2013 | 1

PUBLISHER’S NOTES BOB TAGERT Events Calendar courtesy of Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association

september FEATURED EVENTS

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s we enter the last month of summer I find I am grateful to the weather Gods who have given us some pretty nice weather this summer. It was some of the best and consistent wind for sailing that I can remember. And speaking of sailing, my sailing mentor Bill Ross and his wife (and chef) Caroline will soon be rounding the mark. After a year of toil and filing for permits, the Rosses will open their new restaurant, River Bend Bistro, located in the Hollin Hall shopping center. The exact date is yet to be determined, but they are determined that it will be in September.

Growing up across the Potomac River in Prince Georges County, I have always enjoyed heading south to Calvert and St. Mary’s County, and even more so today. My sailboat is there as well as many friends. The area is fast becoming Alexandria’s playground. Many come from Alexandria and Northern Virginia to get away from the hustle and bustle. For four days— September 18-21—artists A Bit of Nostalgia: Tim Flaherty posing will have their easels set up with his 1956 Austin Healy 100 while an and painting the beautiful officer friend gives him a ticket. Notice the license plate "Not this time boy." This scenery of Solomons Island, was our back cover on the August 1988 and you are invited to watch. issue.

See their ad on page 23.

Sotterly Plantation in St. Mary’s County will be holding their annual Riverside Wine Fest in October. Ad on page 25.

Our Personality Profile this month is a man that is truly one-of-a-kind—Tim Geary. A rolling stone gathers no moss.

Our Business Profile is about a local performance group that has had Congress and politicians in general shaking in their boots since 1981— The Capitol Steps.

Turn the pages and enjoy!

2 | September 2013

11th Annual Alexandria King Street Art Festival September 7 and 8 Times: Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Location: King Street in Alexandria Admission: Free Phone: 703-746-3301 King Street from Washington Street to the waterfront is transformed into an outdoor art gallery with original fine artwork by over 200 artists from the US and abroad. Find paintings, life size sculptures, photography, glass, wood, jewelry, collage, and more. The "Alexandria Art Experience" features artist-led, hands-on, creative activities, and an Ice Cream Bowl Fundraiser, presented by The Art League and the Torpedo Factory Art Center.

Historic Alexandria Homes Tour September 28 Times: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Location: Throughout Old Town Admission: TBA Location: 106 North Columbus Street Phone: 703-706-5337 The TWIG Junior Auxiliary of Inova Alexandria Hospital is pleased to announce the 72nd Annual Historic Alexandria Homes Tour to be held on Saturday, September 28, 2013. This year’s tour will again showcase elegant homes and gardens in Old Town Alexandria.

HAPPENING THIS MONTH Chamber Music Concert with the Washington Metropolitan Philharmonic September 1

Time: 3 p.m.

Venue: Washington Metropolitan Philharmonic Association The Lyceum 201 South Washington Street Phone: 703-799-8229 Violinist Benjamin Scott and piano accompanist, Music by Beethoven, Ravel, Copland and Grieg.

Old Town Theater’s Vaudeville Matinee for Kids Saturdays through December Times: Saturdays, Noon-3 p.m.

Admission: $10 kids with a free adult 815 King Street Phone: 877-335-2844 The Old town theater was originally built in 1914 and restored in 2012. We offer a variety of entertainment for all ages. The Vaudeville Matinee show runs

On August 15, Stoney’s Seafood House of Broomes Island held a fundraising event to benefit Calvert Hospice and is pleased to report that over $40,000 was raised during the first time event!

For many years, Gerald and Mary Donovan of the Rod & Reel held a cancer gala at their restaurant for the benefit of the American Cancer Society. As this event is no longer held, Stoney’s wanted to follow in the tradition by hosting fundraising events for several worthy charities in Calvert County.

Calvert Hospice is a not for profit, community-based organization, and their mission is to provide comprehensive, interdisciplinary services focused on medical care and psychosocial, emotional, and spiritual support to residents of Calvert County who are dying or in need of palliative care; to provide emotional, psychosocial and spiritual support to those in Calvert County grieving the loss of a loved one; and to provide educational services to the entire community about the processes that accompany death and loss. Calvert Hospice promotes quality of life, respect and dignity for the individual, and a recognition of the significance of loss throughout life.

Stoney’s and Calvert Hospice would like to thank the sponsors who supported this event (in alphabetical order): Bonnie Augostino, Bob Hall, Bozick Distributors, Brothers Johnson, Buck Distributors, Community Bank of Tri-County, Constellation Brands/Svedka, Covington & Burling LLP, Davis-Upton-Palumbo-Dougherty Law, Double D Charters, Gerald & Mary Donovan, Donnie & Joey Eireman, END Hunger, Fastop, Maerten’s Jewlery, The McNelis Group, Buzz & Carol Milan, Linda Moos, Nicholas Grigsby Foundation, Old Line Bank, Old Town Crier, Planet Green, Tom & Julie Posey, Prime Lending, Quality Built Homes, David & Diane Reyno, Southern Maryland Flooring, Solomons Pier, Stoney’s Seafood House, Sysco, Tina’s Day Care, Title Max, Winegarder Chevrolet.

Old Town Crier

from noon until three and you may arrive anytime and stay for as long as you like.

The show runs 60 minutes and repeats itself so it does not matter what time you arrive you will enjoy a full show. This is perfect for babysitters and new mommies who want to entertain the children. One free adult with every child. Relax and enjoy the grandeur of the Old Town Theater. ’Scapes Through September 2 Recurring daily Times: Gallery Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, Noon-6 p.m.

Venue: Art League, Inc. Admission: Free 105 N. Union St. Phone: 703-683-1780 'Scapes, the annual August landscape exhibit at The Art League Gallery, will feature works illustrating all elements of our external world. Artwork inspired by all environments may be a part of this juried all-media exhibit – urban and rural, industrialized and primitive, coastal and arid, and the beauty and destruction created by Mother Nature. Member artists are encouraged to explore unique perspectives, literally and figuratively, as well as varying moods and color. 'Scapes will be juried by Elizabeth Klimek. Pictured: November Morning by Web Bryant, winner of the 2012 Potomac Valley Watercolorists' Award.

Shapes: Sculpture at The Art League Through September 2 Recurring daily Gallery Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6: p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, Noon-6 p.m.

Venue: Art League, Inc. Admission: Free 105 N. Union St. Phone: 703-683-1780 Shapes, juried by Laura Roulet, will feature three-dimensional sculptures, forms, structures, and creations by Art League artists. Shapes will be featured in The Art League Gallery concurrently with 'Scapes, our annual landscape exhibit. Pictured: Pristine Environment by Sabyna Sterrett, winner of the 2013 Monkith Saaid Award.

Chaise Lounge/Strathmore First Tuesdays September 3-November 5 Recurring monthly on the 1st Tuesday Times: 7 p.m.

Venue: Old Town Theater Admission: $17.50 815 King Street Phone: 703-544-5315 Lose yourself in the warm, jazzy swing of Chaise Lounge at Old Town Theater!

Featuring a different incredible Strathmore Artist-in-Residence each month!

we are expanding!

Announcing the Grand Opening of our newest Client Center in Tysons Corner for all your home buying, selling and rental needs.

8000 Westpark Drive | Mclean, Va.

Jeff Wu

Guests are always welcome at our real estate lounge & design center in the heart of Old Town Alexandria.

111 south alfred street | 703.791.1167 www.AtHomeDCmetro.com

Local Farmers Markets Old Town Farmers Market

Market Square • 301 King St. Sat. 5:30 - 11 a.m. year round free parking in Market Square garage during market hours People who come to Alexandria on Saturday mornings find themselves in a busy plaza where local farmers and artists have been selling their products since 1753. Old Town Alexandria’s Market Square is thought to be one of the nation’s oldest continually operating farmers markets, serving as a primary source of meat, dairy, fish, fruits and vegetables for Alexandrians. George Washington sent his produce from Mount Vernon to be sold here. Today, the market offers folks a way to reconnect to the past, while participating in an ongoing local and national tradition.

Del Ray Farmers Market

Corner of East Oxford & Mount Vernon avenues Sat. 8 a.m. - Noon year round

The Del Ray Market is producer grown, with fresh vegetables and fruits in season.

All year round this market offers meats,

eggs, fresh pasta and sauces, Amish cheese, yogurt, bakery goods, eggs, jams and jellies, fancy nuts and bakery goods.

Four Mile Run Farmers & Artisans Market 4109 Mt Vernon Ave Sun. 8 am-1 pm April1- October 31

The Four Mile Run Market brings fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels; provides an opportunity for local artisans and producers of goods to bring their wares to market; strives to reflect the diversity of the community; and improves the quality of life for Arlandria residents and visitors.

UPPER KING STREET FRESH Farmers Market

King Street Gardens Park 1806 King St Wed. 3-7 p.m. May - October The Upper King Street Market offers area residents and commuters the opportunity to shop for fresh, locally grown produce, meat, dairy and bakery items.

“Caught in the Net” September 7-28 Recurring weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday Times: Wed-Sat/8 p.m.

Sun/3 p.m.

CALENDAR > PAGE 7

Old Town Crier

September 2013 | 3

Personality profile SYLVIA WINTERLING

Tim Geary One of a kind!

T

im Geary, president of Clarke & Sampson in Alexandria, grew up in a family of 10 children.

He remembers fondly the open door policy of his parents.

Not only was there Tim and his siblings, but their numerous friends as well—all were welcome at the Geary home. He says there was never a dull moment. Being around lots of people and having fun may explain why Tim can be found on any given afternoon at Landini’s in Old Town Alexandria regaling everyone with his stories.

He remembers having a charmed childhood; no illness and no sadness.

Tim is the oldest boy and in his words the “smartest” boy, but I’m sure his brothers have their own opinion on this claim. He is close to all his siblings but especially to his older sister and immediate younger sister as the three of them were born within four years and known as the “Irish Triplets.” His mother never worked outside the home so she was the disciplinarian, always having an innate sense when Tim was doing wrong and ready to correct it with a wooden spoon. It also helped that he wasn’t always smart about covering his tracks like the night he climbed up the side of his house to get into his bedroom window wearing muddy shoes. As much as he feared the wooden spoon he was crushed to hear the words from his mother, “Wait until your father gets home.” He hated to disappoint his father. In retrospect Tim wonders how his parents managed to feed, clothe, maintain a large house and send all 10 children to private schools on a single income.

After graduating from Catholic preparatory school in New Jersey, Tim traveled across country to attend St. Michael’s College, the oldest chartered college in New Mexico, which was granted a charter for higher education in 1874 as the College of the Christian 4 | September 2013

Brothers of New Mexico. He says attending college in Santa Fe was a wonderful experience and it’s also how he met his wife. During his junior year St. Michael’s opened its doors to women, and Tim met Elizabeth (Bitsy) Clarke. She was attractive, blonde, cute, smart and very polite but fun. He most definitely had lots of competition for her hand but claims he was cool and eventually won her over.

Marrying Bitsy set the stage for

The Family—Tim is top center

Tim and his daughters, (left to right) Jenni, Cori and Erin

Tim to settle in Alexandria, where Bitsy’s father was a partner in Clarke & Sampson, an insurance agency.

Tim joined the firm in 1976 with the task of growing the real estate side of the business. He says he had excellent mentors in Everett Clarke and Jack Sampson, who taught him the importance of character and community involvement as well as the business issues. As president of the company now, Tim enjoys the reputation he and the company have built in Old Town where they are known for their personal service.

He is also known as a man deeply

committed to the community, especially through the Clarke & Sampson Charitable Foundation, which donates funds to organizations assisting with the health and welfare of individuals and to those with housing needs.

But Tim saves his greatest praise for his daughters, Jennifer, Erin and Corinne, who he says have taught him a lot about life. He states that they do life right; they are frugal, honest, hard workers and have all pulled together to get through some difficult times.

In spite of his obvious affection and respect for his daughters he doesn’t hesitate to tell stories about them, such

as the daughter who did a tuck and roll out of her car because she thought it was going to explode when it was only running out of gas. Obviously his daughters take his story-telling about them in stride as two of them work for Clarke & Sampson, making it a third generation company.

Tim is a man who appears content with life. He says he can’t think of anything negative about living and working in Alexandria. And he loves to tell stories. If you are in Old Town, you may run into Tim and his longtime partner and Alexandrian, Amanda Chandler, at Landini Brothers. When you do, ask him about the night that involved bike riding, alcohol, beach police and a friendly magistrate. I would have retold it here but you have to hear it from him for the full effect.

Old Town Crier

business profile ELIZABETH jones

The Capitol Steps present the new musical “Greece”

photo: Bill Hurd Mitt Romney raps “I Like Big Bucks”

photo: Bill Hurd

Capitol Steps Bringing you the real story behind the headlines

You've been randomly selected by TSA

C

onsidering this political comedy troupe has performed for the last five presidents of the United States, they require little introduction. Capitol Steps, founded in 1981, have made quite the name for themselves in our hometown and across the nation.

They are well regarded for their ability to tell the stories behind the headlines we follow on our smart phones, watch on our TVs, and read in our beloved newspapers. Having been featured on national television and public radio, this group is recognized for their ability to make the news a little lighter and they say what most of us wouldn’t dare to think out loud.

I had the pleasure of learning more about Capitol Steps from Elaina Newport, one of the group’s founders. Standing strong after three decades, many of you may not know that this group actually came to be at a Senate holiday gathering and its members had never imagined writing

Old Town Crier

photo: Bill Hurd

Rolling Kidney Stones

and performing political satire as a full-time profession. The founders, working on Capitol Hill at the time, thought it would add some life to the holiday work party if they contributed a few songs and skits. As risky as it was, the skits parodied the very people who they worked for. Still joking about it today, Elaina explained, “they would have had a traditional nativity play, but in all of the Congress they couldn’t find three wise men or a virgin!” (You can’t make this stuff up.)

Word traveled fast about this group, and to spread the blame around equally, both Republicans and Democrats were included. Thus, providing twice the material and proving this a bi-partisan group was in agreement of what constitutes “good fun”. After eventually quitting their jobs, (what felt like “running off to the circus” to Elaina), this part-time gig went on the road and the real fun began! Now having performed all over the country and recorded over 30 albums, it is safe to say that the

photo: Bill Hurd

dedicated and talented members of Capitol Steps are not going back to work on the Hill anytime soon. While most of their shows are performed each weekend in downtown Washington, D.C., their out of town audiences are loyal fans as well.

It takes creativity and dedication to find the good pun in a world of news reports on nuclear threats and unemployment. Addressing the tough issues is never easy, but with clever songs titles like “How Do You Solve a Problem like Korea,” and a new album titled “Fiscal Shades of Gray,” Capitol Steps knows how to get people’s attention and keep their performances relevant in a fast-changing world. As Elaina likes to say, “our show is the only place you can see Barack Obama sing a show tune, Joe Biden sing a rock song, and Chris Christie do a classical ballet… all on one stage!” It just goes to show that humor can be the best medicine for even the scariest of headlines.

Capitol Steps’ popularity knows no bounds and with this entertainment

right in our nation’s capital it is time to see what all the talk is about. While their office is located in Alexandria, they perform every weekend at the Ronald Reagan Building, and all over the area for meetings, fundraisers, and conventions. With their new album out, and another coming in the spring, Capitol Steps plans to keep busy! As Elaina so eloquently stated, “unless of course, the politicians get quietly competent and solve all the problems.

Hey wait … we’ll be in business forever, right?” I think most would agree that they have some job security to look forward to.

Regardless of age, race, religion, relationship status, or political affiliation, it’s time for you to find out the stories behind the headlines!

Learn more about Capitol Steps and where you can see them perform live by visiting their website: www. capsteps.com and following them on Facebook and Twitter.

September 2013 | 5

FINANCIAL FOCUS carl m.trevisan, cfp© & stephen m. bearce

Six Simple Ways to Value a Stock

U

nderstanding how to value a stock is an important consideration for most investors. Find out how to use some common metrics to help you understand a stock’s true value.

Investors are always searching for methods to help them determine whether a company is worth investing in. There are many means of stock valuation, some simple, some more complex.1 Why is stock valuation so important? If the market price of the company’s stock is greater than the company’s intrinsic value, an investor might choose to stay away.

If the market price of the company’s stock is less than the company’s intrinsic value, the investor may choose to buy the stock.

Here are six key valuation methods:

Price-to-Earnings Ratio (P/E) The price-to-earnings ratio

(P/E) is a valuation method used to compare a company’s current share price with its per-share earnings. Its formula is calculated by dividing its market value per share by its earnings per share.

The P/E is one of the most widely used ratios, and it is used to compare the financial performance of different companies, industries, and markets. The company’s forecast P/E (its P/E for the upcoming year) is generally considered more important than its historical P/E.

Price-to-Earnings Growth Ratio (PEG)

The P/E ratio is a snapshot of where a company is, and the PEG ratio is a graph plotting where it has been.

The PEG ratio incorporates the historical growth rate of the company’s earnings.

This ratio also tells you how your stock stacks up against another stock. The PEG ratio is calculated by taking the P/E ratio of a company and dividing it by the year-

Carter & Coleman Attorneys at Law

Serving Virginia, maryland and DC for over 20 years 703. 739. 4200 cartercoleman.com 602 Cameron Street alexandria, Va 22314

over-year growth rate of its earnings.

Price-to-Book Ratio (P/B)

The price-to-book ratio measures a company’s market price in relation to its book value. Its formula is calculated by dividing the company’s stock by its book value per share. Book value can be found in the company’s balance sheet, usually listed as "stockholder equity." It represents the value of a company’s total assets subtracted by its total liabilities. The P/B does not consider the actual value of the assets, only the nondepreciated portion of the assets. Like most ratios, it’s best to compare P/B ratios within industries. For example, tech stocks often trade above book value, while financial stocks often trade below book value.

Price-to-Sales Ratio (P/S)

The price-to-sales ratio helps determine a stock’s relative valuation.

Its formula is calculated by dividing the company’s price per share by its annual net sales per share. Price-tosales ratio is considered a relative valuation measure because it’s only useful when it’s compared with the P/S ratio of other firms. The P/S ratio varies dramatically by industry, so when comparing P/S ratios, make sure the firms are within the same industry.

Return on Equity (ROE) The ROE is calculated by dividing a company’s earnings per share by its

“

The P/E ratio is a snapshot of where a company is, and the PEG ratio is a graph plotting where it has been.

book values per share. The ROE is a measure of how well the company is utilizing its assets to make money.

Understanding the trend of ROE is important because it indicates whether the company is improving its financial position or not.

Dividend Payout Ratio

This ratio is calculated by dividing the dividends paid by a company by its earnings.

The dividend payout ratio can also be calculated as dividends per share divided by earnings per share. A high dividend payout ratio indicates that the company is returning a large percentage of company profits back to the shareholders. A low dividend payout ratio indicates that the company is retaining most of its profits for internal growth.

Because of the possibility of human or mechanical error

by S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications or its sources, neither S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications nor its sources guarantees the accuracy, adequacy, completeness or availability of any information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of such information. In no event shall S&P Capital IQ Financial

Source/Disclaimer: 1 Investing in stock involves risk, including loss of principal.

6 | September 2013

Communications be liable for any indirect, special or consequential damages in connection with subscriber’s or others’ use of the content. © 2013 S&P Capital IQ Financial Communications.

All rights reserved. This column is provided through the Financial Planning Association, the membership organization for the financial planning community, and is brought to you by Carl M. Trevisan, a local member of FPA and Stephen M. Bearce. McLaughlin Ryder Investments, Inc. and McLaughlin Ryder Advisory Services, LLC and their employees are not in the business of providing tax or legal advice. These materials and any tax-related statements are not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used or relied upon, by any such taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties. Taxbased statements, if any, may have been written in connection with the promotion or marketing of the transaction (s) or matter(s) addressed by these materials, to the extent allowed by applicable law.

Any such taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayer’s particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor. Securities offered

by McLaughlin Ryder Investments, Inc. and investment advisory services offered by McLaughlin Ryder Advisory Services, LLC.

Old Town Crier

CALENDAR FROM PAGE 3

Venue: Little Theatre of Alexandria Admission: $17-$20, plus service fees 600 Wolfe Street Phone: 703-683-0496 LTA presents the sequel to LTA’s 2005 sell-out production of Run for your Wife!

Meet John Smith, a London taxi driver with two wives in two different parts of London and a very tight schedule to keep. He’s managed to avoid a head-on collision in the past, but now with modern technology, Smith’s carefully calibrated lifestyle that keeps his two families apart is now on a fast-track to disaster! Come see the master of farce’s updated story that brings absurdity to the technological forefront with modern technology, internet

chat rooms, and “amazing coincidences” that still leave the characters in the dark.

Or does it?

Alexandria Art Market September 7 Recurring monthly on the 1st Saturday Times: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Venue: Del Ray Artisans Admission: Free 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue Phone: 703-838-4827 Your monthly dose of art in the heart of Del Ray. Shop local artists, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., rain or shine; enjoy live multicultural music, Noon-2 p.m. Questions? Kimberley Bush: ArtMarket@TheDelRayArtisans.org; www.TheDelRayArtisans.org/ArtMarket

Collaborations Fiber Art Show September 10-October 20 Recurring daily Times: Daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Thurs 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Venue: Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery Admission: free Suite 18, Torpedo Factory 105 N Union St Phone: 703-548-0935 In this juried show, our artists share inspirations. Working together, we create pieces combining the input of 2 or more artists. Whether for self or gifts, jewelry, sculpture, clothing, and wall pieces are some of the items that will be exhibited.

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

Rough Ride 2013

The 2013 Rough Ride through the hills of Rappahannock County will be held September 21. This popular, self-paced, multi-level fundraiser event is for the recreational or serious cyclist, and is held every year for the patients of the Fauquier and Rappahannock Free Clinics. The event draws participants from around the region and takes place over some of the most beautiful scenery Virginia has to offer. Multiple route options range from a family friendly 12 mile loop through Little Washington and Flint Hill, to two paved/unpaved road Rough Ride options to the full 63 mile paved route. For 2013, organizers of the event returned to the traditional course as all bridge repairs have been completed. Entry fees are $40 for adults and $30 for children under the age of 12 (remember, it is a fund raiser) and all riders receive a full lunch upon return to the start/finish line. For more info, google Rough Ride, Washington, Va.

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

Set Yourself Free from pre-packaged banking at your current bank

There has never been a better time to make John Marshall Bank your bank. We offer no-nonsense, personalized service to our area’s business, government contracting and commercial real estate enterprises. It’s no wonder we are one of the fastest-growing banks in the region, well-capitalized, and ready to help your business. Call us today at 703 - 289 - 5950 and take flight to hassle-free banking.

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September 2013 | 7

a bit of history sarah becker

Virginia Ratifying Convention, 1788

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For many, George Mason IV is America’s forgotten hero. He is the author of several influential documents, perhaps none more famous than the June 12, 1776 Virginia Declaration of Rights.

8 | September 2013

eptember 17 is Constitution Day. Celebrate! The US Constitution is the world’s longest surviving written charter of government.

Congress, in 1956, established Constitution Week to encourage the study of government. The US Constitution begins, “We, the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union…do ordain and establish.”

The Constitution’s Fifth Article, or rarely seen Transmittal page “Resolved, That the [proposed] Constitution…be submitted to a Convention of Delegates, chosen in each State by the people thereof, under the Recommendation of its Legislature, for their Assent and Ratification.

Only nine of the original thirteen States were needed to approve the Constitution. Maryland was the seventh State to ratify, Virginia the 10th.

Virginia voted 89 ayes, 79 noes.

Like many post-Colonial Americans, Gunston Hall’s George Mason IV contemplated revision of the revolutionary government’s Articles of Confederation. He was one of several Virginia delegates asked to attend the 1787 Constitutional Convention. He and son John Mason arrived in Philadelphia belatedly; before Fairfax County neighbor George Washington was unanimously named Convention President.

George Mason IV made 136 Convention speeches. He favored the direct election of the House of Representatives, offered to write a bill of rights, and blamed the slave trade on “the avarice of the British merchants.” Mason also circulated copies of his objections.

“Col. Mason left Philada. in an exceeding ill humour indeed,” James Madison wrote to Thomas Jefferson in October 1787. “A number of little circumstances arising in part from the impatience which prevailed towards the close of the business, conspired to whet his acrimony. He returned to Virginia with a fixed disposition to prevent the adoption of the plan if possible. He considers the want of a Bill of Rights as a fatal objection…His conduct has given umbrage to the County of Fairfax, and particularly to the Town of Alexandria.”

Mason was a brilliant, pragmatic thinker who lived life in a cumulatively small space. He was loyal to Virginia, the South, and the Union; in that order. George Mason split with James Madison; then teamed with Patrick Henry to oppose Virginia’s ratification. The 79 noes included not only Henry and Mason, but also Benjamin Harrison, James Monroe, and John Tyler.

On June 26, 1788 Virginia’s duly elected Convention delegates ratified the Constitution.

The Convention further suggested “a Declaration or Bill of Rights asserting and securing from encroachment the essential and unalienable rights of the People.” The New York Convention later recommended “Amendments nearly similar to those of Virginia.”

With Madison’s help, Congress passed the Bill of Rights—including freedom of the press and trial by jury—in 1791. Mason’s persistence, however annoying to others, paid off.

George Mason IV was born in Fairfax County, Virginia, on December 11, 1725.

He was ten years old when his father died accidentally; guardian John Mercer inspired his interest in law. Mason married his beloved Ann Eilbeck at age 24 and together they had 9 nine children. Ann died of a slow fever in 1773, just prior to Britain’s passage of the Tea Act. Mason again married, Dumfries resident Sarah Brent in 1780. He died at home in 1792; his civic tasks completed well.

“The objections which led [Col. Mason] to withhold his name from [the Constitution of the United States] have been explained by himself,” James Madison wrote in 1827. “But none who differed from him…will deny…that he [was] a devoted Republican.”

For many, George Mason IV is America’s forgotten hero. He is the author of several influential documents, perhaps none more famous than the June 12, 1776 Virginia Declaration of Rights. His Declaration of Rights served as a model for the 1789 US Bill of Rights, Declaration of the Rights of Man (France) and the 1948 United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

“Three sets of men are to be found on the question of Government,” Westmoreland County Delegate Henry “Light-horse Harry” Lee wrote George Washington in December 1787. “One opposed to any system, was it even sent from heaven which tends to confirm the union of the states. [Anti-Federalist Patrick] Henry is leader of this band.”

“Another who would accept the new constitution from conviction of its own excellence, or any federal system, sooner than risk the dissolution of the confederacy,” Lee continued, “& a third who dislike the proposed Government, wish it amended, but if this is not practicable, would adopt it sooner than jeopardize the Union. [George] Mason may be considered as the head of this set.”

A BIT OF HISTORY > PAGE 13

Old Town Crier

civil DISCOURSE DOUG COLEMAN

Civil War, September 1863 Chickamauga

T

here is not much to report for Virginia in September 1863. Following Gettysburg, Meade cautiously follows Lee into Virginia and settles back into the old lines along the Rappahannock. On September 13th, Meade shifts his forces south to a new line on the Rapidan River. This theatre will remain quiet until October, when Lee re-crosses the Rapidan in an attempt to outflank Meade, sparking heavy skirmishing across a wide front.

Things are very different out west. This month marks the 150th anniversary of Chickamauga, second only to Gettysburg in number of casualties. Chickamauga is the culmination of the Chattanooga campaign prosecuted in the corner where Georgia, Alabama and Tennessee meet. It was fought over two days and resulted in one of the worst Union defeats in the western theatre.

In the lead-up to the battle, Confederate commander Braxton Bragg evacuates Chattanooga on September 8th when he learns that Federal forces under Rosecrans threaten to cut supply lines to his rear.

Rosecrans crows that eastern Tennessee is finally free and begins a pursuit, ignoring the advice of renegade Virginian George Thomas cautioning that Union supply lines are stretched thin and corps widely disbursed. Rosecrans’ three corps are each roughly ten miles from their neighbor and cannot support one another in this rough terrain.

This leads to near-disaster at Davis’ Crossroads on September 11, where the advance force of Thomas’

Old Town Crier

Corps, Negley ’s division of 4600 men, walk into a trap set by Bragg, a mountain cove whose outlet is blocked by an abattis of downed timber.

Although the Confederates outnumber their opponents three to one, lack of coordination and delay allow Negley to escape. Bragg is furious. Rosecrans now heeds Thomas’s advice, abandons the pursuit and orders the three parts of his army to rejoin for retreat back to Chattanooga.

Reinforced by two divisions from Virginia under Longstreet and an additional division from Alabama, Bragg begins a pursuit of his own, catching up with Rosecrans on the banks of Chickamauga Creek on September 18th. Yankee cavalry with repeating rifles, supported by artillery, manage to slow the Confederate crossing until late in the day, robbing Bragg of momentum and surprise.

On the morning of the 19th, the Confederates make their assault over a wide front.

The terrain is heavily wooded and coordination is difficult, leading to a series of isolated attacks and counter-attacks.

As the sun sets, the Union line remains unbroken. Losses for each side on the 19th are in the 6-7,000 range, neither gaining much advantage.

On the morning of September 20th, Rosecrans by mistake creates the breach Bragg could not. Believing there to be a gap in his lines, he shifts troops to fill the nonexistent gap and in doing opens up a real one. Unfortunately for the Yankees, this hole is directly in the path of eight brigades of Longstreet’s veterans, who pour through the breach with immediate and disastrous results, throwing

a third of Rosecrans’ army into headlong retreat. Some of Rosecrans’ veterans rally on a ridge and link up with Thomas’ forces, which are still relatively intact. Thomas, who has had the foresight to throw up breastworks, stabilizes the Union line and manages to hold firm in some of the most vicious fighting of the war. Thomas is rightly remembered as “the Rock of Chickamauga”, as his steadiness and competency save the army.

According to Harper’s, Rosecrans suffers casualties of 1644 killed, 9262 wounded and 4945 missing. Loss of cavalry is 500, for a total of 16,351, plus 51 guns.

This was from an army of 60,000, of which 43-47,000 Federal troops were actually engaged. Confederate losses are reported by Harper’s at 16,000 killed and wounded, plus 2003 captured; this

from an army estimated at 70,000, of which 55,000 were directly engaged. Modern estimates are slightly higher, but not by much. Either way, Chickamauga remains the bloodiest two days in American history. Lincoln’s brother-in-law, a Confederate general, is mortally wounded at Chickamauga.

Rosecrans retreats to Chattanooga, where he is surrounded and besieged

by Confederates on the hills above. Rosecrans proceeds to fortify Chattanooga. Hooker’s corps is sent to him from the east on September 23rd.

Additional reinforces come from Grant, fresh from victory at Vicksburg. As soon as these troops arrive in late October, Rosecrans is relieved of command and replaced by Grant. Three of Rosecrans’ subordinate commanders are earlier relieved and face a court

of inquiry. Harper’s History of the Rebellion summarizes it thus: “It had been a tedious campaign of wearisome marches, terminating in a doubtful and unnecessary battle. Many mistakes had been made by both the Federal and Confederate commanders. Risks had been run on one side which imperiled a whole army, and the disastrous results of which were only averted by delays and neglect of opportunities by the other”.

Bragg would probably agree with this assessment, as he bitterly complains that the failure to promptly execute his orders cost the South its best opportunity for independence. Bragg blames Leonidas Polk. Polk is a West Pointer who had resigned his commission to attend the Virginia Theological Seminary; the Bishop of CIVIL DISCOURSE > PAGE 13

September 2013 | 9

HIGH NOTES CHRIS ANDERSON

So Hungry

A

s we continue to spiral through 2013 it’s becoming more and more clear that this year is not gonna live up to last year, at least as far as new music goes. Reports say that this Summer, album sales are lower than they ever have been. Of course they are. That’s because nothing’s happening. Sure, there have been a few things here and there. We talked about those last month. And I guess if you were some sort of pop-kid, then there’s new stuff

by Kanye and Robin Thicke, which people apparently like but, honestly, that is such a different scene for me that it might as well not exist.

With the mainstream vacuum so empty, we happily move along and dig under a few rocks for something a

little bit different. That takes time, though, and it’s often helpful for someone else to do the dirty work. While there are a lot of websites and streaming internet radio sources for this sort of thing, my favorite new source to come along is Feedbands and it’s one of the coolest things I’ve yet to come across.

Feedbands is aimed both at the vinyl collector and the unsigned independent artist.

The idea behind the project is to help to fund new and exciting bands by releasing their album on vinyl.

Subscribers pay $20 a month and, in return, receive a new, exclusive record every month.

The bands are guaranteed to be completely unknown to you, but they are also guaranteed to be awesome.

If not, you get your money back and, hell, they even give

you the first record for free.

All the records are pressed on some kind of crazy, swirly colored vinyl, and it’s true— they are all pretty awesome.

So for the collector, you get a new and rare album every month for the collection. For the artist, not only do you get to see your work released on vinyl (really, the only cool way to release an album), but you get to take home 2/3 of all the subscriptions for your month. Not bad.

Fortunately, I got in on the ground floor so I will likely end up with a complete collection. As a collector, that’s pretty enticing. Also, I have my own songs uploaded to the site and will hopefully one day get my own pressingin the series. Hopefully I can get something together that holds up to what has already been released, because there are some fantastic records coming out in this series.

Feedbands #1 Unknown Relatives: 2

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This Austin-based outfit saw their second album released as the inaugural Feedbands offering and it’s a doozy. Despite residing in the land of Tex-Mex, alt.country, and other sorts of Americana greatness, these guys have more in common with the late 80s / early 90s Shoegaze movement in the UK. Listening to this band, I hear a lot of influence from the Jesus And Mary Chain, Loop, early Ride, My Bloody Valentine, and other bands like that.

While that might not make Unknown Relatives the most relevant band on the planet, it does make for a solid record and one that reminds me of another time. A solid first entry into the club.

Feedbands #2 The Vliets: (self-titled)

Despite taking their moniker from Captain Beefheart’s given surname, these guys exist on a much different plane from the good Captain, one that is more grounded and yet further out to lunch. Another band hailing from Austin, they are also light years away from what would be expected from that scene, again taking much of their influence from the UK and 60s pop.

The Beatles’ middle-period factors very heavily into their sound, as does Meddle-era Pink Floyd, especially in the instrumental jams that offer breathing space between the otherwise soaring pop songs, while songs like “God’s Drug” carry a distinct Beach Boys sound, as filtered through, oh, Portugal The Man. I think if this album had come out ten or twelve years ago, these guys would be Indie Rock Icons by now. I’m not sure what sort of heat this album could generate right now, but it certainly deserves a great deal of attention. This may end up being one of my favorite albums of the year.

Feedbands #3 Coo Coo Birds: Don’t Bring Your Boyfriends

Hailing from San Francisco, the Coo Coo Birds play a

dirty, raunchy brand of garage rock that is not quite punk, not quite rock, not quite…I dunno what. Traces of Ramones, Stooges, and MC5 pop up from time to time, and much of this record sounds like what you’d hear on the original Nuggets compilations. It’s dirty, it’s fuzzy, and it’s full of attitude. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if their next album came out on Sundazed. They just have that perfect garage sound. Which means that they aren’t necessarily great, or even really all that good, but that just makes this album all the more awesome.

Feedbands #4: ????

One of the cool things about this project is that the albums and artists are kept secret until the record arrives in your mailbox. While each album comes with an mp3 download code, the idea is that the first time you hear these albums should be when you drop the needle. Despite that, they will usually post a couple of brief samples on their website and a vague description of the band, but that serves more to further pique curiosity than anything else. Based on those samples, this next album may be the best of the bunch. Evoking the sounds of early 60s girl groups, mixed with the attitude of the Runaways or the Donnas, there is no way this album can lose.

I urge all you vinyl junkies out there to give this a try.

Subscriptions are limited and, at this point, may be contingent on cancellations, but it’s worth a try. You really can’t find a more exciting way to discover new music.

Old Town Crier

THE LAST WORD MIRIAM R. KRAMER

Get Your Scandinavian Gloom & Doom Right Here

I

n the last decade or more Scandinavian crime and detective novels have raced up the bestseller lists with their memorable heroes and heroines, tightly twisting plots, and dark, moody atmospheres. The genre known as Nordic noir includes such hugely popular writers as the late Stieg Larsson, who penned The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo and two follow-ups, and the reigning king, Jo Nesbø, whose deeply flawed police detective hero, Harry Hole, has captured a worldwide readership.

Nesbø introduced Harry Hole in The Bat, just recently translated after the success of his later Hole novels. The Bat traces Harry for the audience as a tall, relentless lone wolf of a policeman who works for Norway’s Crime Squad, He has been sent to Sydney, Australia, where he works with local police to trace a serial killer who had murdered a Norwegian woman there. This particular work is less cohesive than many of its successors, but it is worth reading for those who want to know Hole’s genesis and see how he develops as a character over the course of the series. Also, its views of the history between Australian colonizers and Aboriginals are interesting.

Nesbø’s second novel, The Cockroaches, has not yet been released in the United States.

Third on Nesbø’s list is The Redbreast, a taut and gripping thriller in which Oslo police search for a possible terrorist and murderer whose roots may go back to World War II soldiers who fought Russian Communists on the side of the German Fascists.

Perhaps one of Hole’s best appearances, the book is tautly written and suspenseful to the Old Town Crier

last pages. It also introduces the Oslo Crime Squad and its cast of characters along with Rakel, a woman Hole loves.

Most importantly it places him on home turf for the first time.

Nemesis and The Devil’s Star are two more works that followed in quick succession.

In the former book, Harry and his Crime Squad must determine what exactly occurred when someone murders a teller during a skillful bank robbery that leaves precious few clues to the thief ’s identity. This book introduces characters such as Crime Squad’s Beate Lønn, a meticulous forensics guru, who helps Harry put together the puzzle pieces.

In the latter novel, Hole and his squad determine the murderer who kills women and adorns them with a red, star-shaped diamond.

Hole suspects a fellow police detective, Tom Waaler, of not only smuggling arms but also helping to kill Hole’s police partner. Both of these works are highly suspenseful, labyrinthine and well-plotted, keeping the reader constantly interested and engaged. Also, the tenacious Harry Hole’s struggles with alcoholism keep him aware of the grey areas between right and wrong and his own limitations as he pursues justice.

In this vein flows the novel The Redeemer. Hole must find a hired Croat killer who grew up fighting in the former Yugoslavia during the massacres of the 1990s.

Working with Crime Squad, he investigates Norway’s Salvation Army infrastructure to determine not only the man who killed a Salvation Army member during an outdoors Christmas concert, but also the person who hired him.

In the process the reader gets an increasingly better sense

of the downtown Oslo of the down-and-outs, where junkies roam and a prosperous state does not ensure wellbeing for all. The reader will enjoy seeing the map of Oslo through Nesbø’s eyes: a contemporary Northern European city drawn in dark charcoal.

In The Snowman, Hole investigates a woman’s disappearance, which coincides with the appearance of a giant snowman in her yard. Helped by a beautiful, if unbalanced, new detective, Katrine Bratt, he determines that he may have found Norway’s first serial killer, who leaves a snowman wherever he chooses to kill.

Anyone who enjoys thrillers of this kind should love The Snowman. Its intricacy and breathless pace keep the reader guessing until the end, as it travels from Oslo to Norway’s second city, Bergen, and back. Interestingly, this work primarily discusses fatherhood. Harry acts as a father figure to Oleg, the son of his love, Rakel. Many of the book’s characters determine what paternity means to fathers and their children.

The Leopard is a tall action tale of travel and murder.

After his ordeal with the Snowman killer, Hole has taken a leave of absence to find peace in the Far East.

Crime Squad sends the attractive Kaja Solness to find him in the anthill of Hong Kong, where he is smoking opium and betting on horses.

When he comes back, he must navigate the politics that roil the Crime Squad, as Mikael Bellman, the head of Kripos, the National Criminal Investigation Service, tries to place all murder investigations under his own jurisdiction.

In the mean time, Hole finds himself working underground to follow the trail of a killer

who is trying to eliminate a disparate group of people who stayed one night in a public ski cabin. His detective work leads him to travel with Kaja from Norway to the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, for a spectacular and cinematic denouement.

Fast-paced, The Leopard is an enjoyable and meaty thriller.

Nesbø’s most recently published work, The Phantom, sees Hole having left Crime Squad to work as a debt

collector in Hong Kong. He returns to Oslo again when Oleg, son of the love of his life, Rakel, is accused of murdering a prominent drug dealer.

Hole contacts his friends on the police squad for help as THE LAST WORD > PAGE 43

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September 2013 | 11

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Protect the Skin They’re In

W

ith all the news about skin cancer circulating these days, people are becoming more aware of the frequency and danger of these types of cancers. But many pet owners are shocked to learn that their cats and dogs are at risk, too. Even parts of the body that are covered in fur are susceptible to skin cancers that aren’t sun-induced.

Pets can develop the same kinds of skin cancers that humans do: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Fortunately, basal cell carcinoma is uncommon in pets, but the other two—as well as mast cell tumors in the mouth and injection-site sarcomas— pose serious risks if undetected and untreated.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

As a recent article in The Huffington Post explained, “For the most part, our pets have dense fur that acts as a natural sunscreen, but white-coated dogs and cats are the exceptions to this rule.

In sunny parts of the country where pets spend a lot of time outside, like California and Colorado, sun exposure takes its toll on the thinly furred skin of the ears and nose of white dogs and cats.

Dogs who sunbathe on their backs are also prone to developing squamous cell carcinoma in the thinly haired region of the tummy. Solar-induced squamous cell carcinoma can be treated with surgery or radiation therapy if found early, but prevention is simple: Limit your pet’s exposure to the sun.”

Melanoma

Melanoma is more common that basal and squamous cell carcinomas in pets; the location of it usually determines how severe it is and what sort of treatment it thus will require. Melanomas of the mouth are more common in dogs and 12 | September 2013

are much more serious than melanomas found on skin covered by fur. The latter type are usually non-invasive and can usually be removed by surgery, but those in the mouth can require chemotherapy and radiation as well. Freckles on the gums and in the mouth are not necessarily cancerous, but you should get your pet’s mouth, teeth, and gums examined and cleaned as often as your vet recommends. And when training a dog or puppy it is a good idea to get them used to your opening their mouth and examining inside so that you can keep an eye out for changes as well. Darkhaired breeds such as cocker spaniels and black Labs are more prone to developing certain kinds of tumors such as ocular melanomas. Another vicious type of melanoma in dogs is one that appears around the nails. If you see a broken nail that won’t heal or that your dog keeps licking, or any unusual spots where the nail meets the toe, have them checked out by your vet as soon as possible.

some cats develop a malignancy at the site of an injection. Millions of cats receive shots with no complications, but once in awhile the inflammation at the site of a subcutaneous injection can turn cancerous. Follow the 3-2-1 rule developed by some experts years ago: if a lump remains three months after an injection, if it grows larger than two centimeters, or if it is growing just one month after injection, you should bring your cat to the vet for a biopsy of the lump.

Mast Cell Tumors

To keep your pet safe and healthy, keep an eye out for lumps or sores that won’t go away. Keep your pet in the shade as much as possible, especially if they spend most of the day outdoors and consider using a pet-safe sunscreen on their nose and ears. And make sure to get your pet examined at least once a year by a veterinarian, including an oral exam. Just as you take care of the skin you’re in, take care of your best friend’s!

Mast cell tumors are not something humans usually have to worry about, but these are common in pets. Mast cells are those cells that play a role in allergic reactions, causing the itching, swelling, and redness we know as a response to an allergen. Certain breeds of dogs— including Labrador Retrievers, Boxers, Pugs and Golden Retrievers—are far more prone to mast cell tumors, so their owners need to be extra vigilant in spotting any kind of raised, hairless, pinkish-yellow masses. Mast cell tumors in cats appear very similar to those in dogs. Because these cells induce itching, swelling and redness, mast cell tumors may be red, itchy and periodically swell up and then disappear again.

Cat-Specific Skin Cancer

Bowen’s Disease

This is a form of Squamous Cell Carcinoma that both cats and dogs (and humans) can develop, and is characterized by the following: • Skin that changes color and develops an ulcer in the center • Hair in the sore falls out easily • Dried, crusty material on the hair near the sore • As many as 30 sores on the head, neck and shoulders

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A BIT OF HISTORY FROM PAGE 8

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Old Town Crier

“I believe if the friends to the Govt. in the state convention should manage wisely, & if nine states should have ratified it before Virga. assembles that we may count on the dominion as an accepting state,” Lee concluded.

“Most of the delegates in the Virginia Convention said nothing at all,” Kevin Hardwick reported. “There were copious speeches; they run to some 650 pages. Patrick Henry all by himself spoke one out of every six words at the Convention.”

“You are better acquainted with Mr. Henry’s politics than I can be, but I have for some time considered him as driving a Southern Confederacy,” James Madison wrote Henrico County Delegate Edmund Randolph in January 1788. Randolph, like Mason, did not sign the proposed Constitution.

George Mason IV believed passionately in human liberty. His personal convictions formed the bedrock of Americana. Mason opposed that portion of the 1787 Constitution which permitted the continued importation of slaves. Yet he was a fourth generation Virginian economically dependent on slavery.

“A Compromise between the Eastern & the two Southern States [permitted] the latter to continue the Importation of Slaves for twenty odd Years,” George Mason wrote to Thomas Jefferson in May 1788. Mason felt “the further importation of slaves…render[ed] the United States weaker, more vulnerable, and less capable of defence.”

George Mason IV was not only a delegate to the 1787 Philadelphia Constitutional Convention; the 1788 Virginia Ratifying Convention, but also an early Alexandria trustee; a Truro parish vestryman; a partner in the speculative Ohio Company and Fairfax County’s representative to the Virginia House of Burgesses (also Delegates).

It was Mason, the Ohio Company’s treasurer, who sent Virginian George Rogers Clark west.

Rogers’ western claims, the Ohio Company and similar companies’ land claims were America’s claims. “We the People” was Mason’s claim; the constitutional powers granted a gift from the American people.

“The fact is unquestionable,” Thomas Jefferson wrote in 1825, “that the [Virginia] Bill of Rights and the Constitution of Virginia were drawn originally from George Mason.”

Mason’s commitment to justice was legendary; his refusal to sign the Constitution landmark.

“Our matchless Bill of Rights came directly from the amazing wisdom and far-reaching vision of this patriot,” President Harry S.

Truman wrote. “I sincerely hope that his home, Gunston Hall, will in time become a symbol of the rights of man and a mecca for all liberty-loving Americans.”

Gunston Hall offers magnolias and willow oaks, a Georgian plantation house and a Potomac River view. The Dogue’s Neck plantation approximated 5,000 acres and included a large slave population. Oddly, Mason remained disappointed that existing slaves were not classified as property.

William Buckland—an indentured servant, carpenter & joiner—designed the home’s elaborately carved interior woodwork. The Mansion’s dining room is the colonies only surviving example of “Chinese” architecture.

Built in 1755 Gunston Hall is located in Mason Neck, Virginia.

“At a time when our lordly Masters in Great Britain will be satisfied with nothing less than the deprivation of American freedom, it seems highly necessary that something shou’d be done to avert the stroke and maintain the liberty which we derived from our ancestors,” George Washington wrote George Mason in 1769. “But the manner of doing it to answer the purpose of effectually is the point in question.” Together they opposed the 1767 Townshend Acts and supplied a fledgling army.

“You know the friendship which has long existed (indeed from our early youth) between George Washington and myself,” George Mason wrote son John in March 1789. “It is possible my opposition to the new government, both as a member of the national and of the Virginia Convention may have altered the case.” Principle implies price.

Virginia’s 1788 ratifying vote was controversial, but in George Washington’s hometown of Alexandria, Virginia, “the cannon roared.” Thankfully the Virginia Convention met for only three weeks, from June 3 until June 27, 1788.

Mount Vernon commemorates Constitution Week with the September 27 opening of the 15-acre, $106 million Fred W. Smith National Library for the Study of George Washington.

Washington’s Acts of Congress, including his annotated copy of the Constitution, is included among the Library’s rare books. Take Note!

George Washington the Reader, a new exhibit, also opens in September.

Gunston Hall invites visitors to tour, especially the newly discovered Mason family burying ground.

Email Sarah Becker: abitofhistory53@gmail.com

CIVIL DISCOURSE FROM PAGE 9

Louisiana reentered the military in June 1861.

It was Polk’s division which failed to spring the ambush at Davis’ crossroads; one full corps of Rosecrans’ army could have been captured or destroyed. Two days later near Ringgold, Polk again drags his feet in attacking an isolated corps and the Federals again escape disaster.

At Chickamauga, Polk’s command for a third time hesitates, buying time for the Federals to throw up the entrenchments which will provide the rallying point checking the Federal rout on the second day of the battle. In short, fortune provides three opportunities within ten days for the Army of Tennessee to eliminate its counterpart, and each time the opportunity is squandered.

Polk is killed in June of 1864 during the

Atlanta campaign when General Sherman observes a group of Confederate officers conferring in the distance. Unlike Polk, Sherman is not one to hesitate and he immediately orders a nearby battery to direct its fire upon this group. The Federal gunners shoot straight and Polk is cut nearly in half by a rifled shell.

Despite his shortcomings, Polk was popular and was deeply mourned by his troops but probably not by Bragg, who should be remembered as a better commander than circumstances let him be.

Source: Harper’s History of the Great Rebellion

September 2013 | 13

GALLERY BEAT F. LENNOX CAMPELLO

Goings On

clockwise from top: Topography: One by Rosetta DeBardinis, ink, charcoal and graphite on canvas, 36 x 24,” $4000 Love 007 My Love: A tribute to Billie Holiday, Miles Davis and Duke Ellington by Luis Peralta, acrylic on recycled paper on canvas, 24 x 28,” $2500 Sanctity by Scott G. Brooks, 2012, oil on canvas, 24 x 30,” $3500 Asteroids by Chris Lee, mixed media on aluminum panel, 4 x 4,’ $2000

T

he Bethesda Urban Partnership’s October exhibition will feature the return of the Fraser Gallery, which operated in Bethesda for nine years and also a second gallery in Georgetown for ten years.

The exhibition, “Cityscapes,” will include work from David FeBland, Beata Drozd, Ben Ferry and Gavin Glakas will be on display Oct. 2-Nov. 3 at Gallery B (7700 Wisconsin Ave., Suite E).

The Bethesda Urban Partnership opened the space after photographer and curator Catriona Fraser closed her gallery there in 2011.

Political Art at MOCA

“The Art of Political Change” is an invitational show curated by DMV area artist Roy Utley.

The show is all about art and politics and runs through September 28 at the MOCA DC gallery in Georgetown. The Opening Reception is Sept 14th from 6:00 to 10:00, and there’s an Open mike political poetry night on Sept 20 from 6:00 to 10:00, 14 | September 2013

followed by a Film screening night on Sept 21 from 6:00 to 10:00 (hosted by Lucy Gebre-Egziabher) and a Closing Party on Sept 27 from 6:00 to 10:00.

The show features distinctive works of social commentary by a group of exciting Washington area artists. They come from all across the artistic landscape—painters, sculptors, poets, filmmakers and more. The dozens of works on display by 23 artists will connect with the viewer on a personal visual level, while the live video feeds will enable everyone with internet access to view the events.

My own experience with political art is that it is usually the left doing negative artwork about the right. The Presidency of George W. Bush left behind a huge trail of political art of all genres, all harshly critical of the President, and a lot downright offensive and mean.

Some artists, such as Richard Serra’s crayon drawing of an Abu Ghraib prisoner with the caption "STOP BUSH”, employed the time sensitive issue to achieve instant fame, and now the minimalist

sculptor is best known for that piece, which essentially got him a ticket to the Venice Biennale.

Anti Presidential political art has been all but AWOL during the Obama presidency, perhaps because the mainstream media has been rather successful in protecting the President and also in exacting harsh revenge on anyone who dares to deviate from a positive depiction of our current President.

Even Shepard Fairey’s embarrassing path to the famous “HOPE” poster art from the historic 2008 campaign (he ripped off the image from DMV area photographer Manny Garcia) was not enough to stop the National Portrait Gallery to acquire the artwork, in violation of its own rules about acquiring portraits of living persons only if done from the live subject. They also ignored the fact that the image had been ripped off from another artist.

In view of the current woes of the administration, ranging from the NSA revelations to the IRS scandal and GALLERY BEAT > PAGE 27

Old Town Crier

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Follow us on Facebook AT facebook.com/oldtowncrier September 2013 | 15

GIGS & DIGS SKY SHAW & SPENCER HILL

Blues Alley

Carrying on into a new jazz century

“W

ashington is the world’s biggest small town,” exclaimed the compact, immaculate human ball of energy we recognize in the reigning owner of Blues Alley, Harry Schnipper.

Harry came of age in Georgetown’s halcyon era, when doing the town, basically meant having the run of M Street, main drag in DC’s oldest port village (besides Old Town Alexandria) in the entire region.

“Vive la difference between 1973 and 2013: Forty years ago, The Strip extended from One Step and the Foolery on Pennsylvania Avenue (in Foggy Bottom), to the big old Bayou beneath the Whitehurst, to Silver Dollar, Emergency, Crazy Horse, Saloon (later Saloun), Apple Pie, the Cellar Door, and Blues Alley herself. Up the road lay Harold’s Rogue and Jar, the Childe Harold and Etcetera, among others.

And today? Of all those great venues listed above, only Blues Alley remains— still packin’ in crowds of happy customers, night after night.

As Mr. Schnipper, who is not only owner but executive director of the Blues Alley Foundation, is eager to explore the reasons for the attrition rate for notable Blues/Jazz venues are legion. Take a flagging local economy, particularly rough where paying for entertainment is concerned.

Internet and iPod downloading, and merely couch potato-ing at home to watch music on cable.

Land values and the cost per square foot of renting commercial space have skyrocketed horrifically.

So why is the last great Jazz boite still standing in the alley at 1073 Wisconsin Avenue? As a converted

16 | September 2013

brick stable dominating what was once a surely noxious, nefarious corner of a lower working class slum, Blues Alley has come to be awash in the aura of beautiful ghosts. The dusky raw brick bearing walls are festooned with a peculiar collection of trophies, indeed. Battered brass instruments, mostly recognizable as orchestral horns: tuba, euphonium, cornet, sax, perhaps an Alpen zollern thrown in, rest on dusty plywood shields—the sounds lost to the ages. Beloved memories hover over the densely arranged tables, tangible enough to tickle you. Dizzy Gillespie urging his sidemen; Billy Eckstine crooning “Without a Song,” Ahmad Jamal ringing in many a New Year with his tinkling keys—all musical magic that only a room like this will nurture.

The nature of Blues Alley underwent a major overhaul once entrepreneur John Bunyan purchased it from Gwaltney’s successor, Bill Cannon, a retired Air Force colonel, in 1973. What had been a fun and funky spot whose most memorable figures may well have been the regular bartenders, by 1978 was through reconfiguration of stage, sound, lighting, and seating, ready to play host to top-shelf national jazz talent. Although the club’s house band, featuring the stolid Bill Reichenbach on drums (and later for a time, Dick Heintze on piano, Steve Novosel on bass, among others— wow, what a lineup!) was more than adequate, increased attention on booking prime national and international acts

meant the performer brought his or her own backup; hence, the listener could experience a fully authentic headliner in their given milieu, not a commonplace thing at the time in clubs.

A partial roster of great icons who often played Blues Alley rather than Kennedy Center or Carter Barron Amphitheatre were Joe Williams, Sarah Vaughan, Earl “Fatha” Hines, Ramsey Lewis trio; also Mel Torme, Jerry Butler (still a mainstay today), Carmen McRae, and most significantly DIZZY, who helped John Bunyan found the Blues Alley Jazz Society in 1986; Diz was the first chairman as well!

Now the reins are firmly held by Harry Schnipper. This July he held the 14th annual “Summer Jazz Camp” for kids, in a sylvan setting where young folk, many from underprivileged backgrounds, may get up close and personal with the classic compositions of America’s native music. In addition to the camp, Harry oversees a youth orchestra, which, several times each year, (usually at Blues Alley ) demonstrates the skill that high school age performers have mastered via solid education in the heritage and myriad forms of this discipline.

Schnipper extends his reach way beyond his Georgetown domain with a true joie de vivre coupled with dogged dedication to preserving the richness of Jazz. How he is currently accomplishing this particular goal is to foster what GIGS & DIGS > PAGE 19

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September 2013 | 17

CARIBBEAN CONNECTION JAIME ELLIOTT

Showing the Love in Love City

S

t. John has had the nickname Love City since at least the 1950s.

According to one story, the moniker traces its roots to the quickie divorces available in the Virgin Islands, which were advertised in stateside newspapers back in the day.

18 | September 2013

A more romantic tale of the island’s well-known nickname involves a local character who would walk through Cruz Bay with a huge smile on his face greeting everyone. He’d tell everyone that St. John loved everybody, that this was Love City.

Either way, the name stuck and once in a while the

community comes together to prove it is indeed still worthy of being called Love City.

Such was the case on a Sunday afternoon in late July when more than 200 residents packed a north shore beach on St. John to compete in a friendly and kooky kayak race and raise funds for wounded veterans.

There is little to not like about an afternoon party with a whole bunch of amazing people on a beautiful alabaster beach to begin with; but a great cause and free beer? Just show me where to sign up.

Team River Runner is based in Washington D.C. where founder Joe Mornini began teaching adaptive kayak skills to wounded veterans in the pool at Walter Reed Army Medical Center back in 2004.

After the wounded veterans master their skills in the pool, Team River Runner leads sponsored kayak trips for the participants at locations across the country. Today, there are Team River Runner chapters at veterans’ medical centers around the nation which host trips and events from California to Florida.

One Team River Runner program brings a group of wounded veterans and their partners or caregivers to Cinnamon Bay Campground on St. John each November for a week of health and healing in our tropical waters.

The participants take part in kayak trips, sailing excursions and more while spending time with community members and each other,

building bonds and gaining independence.

For many of the veterans who travel to St. John with Team River Runner, it is the first time they have walked on sand with their prosthetic legs or swam in the clear, calm waters of the Caribbean.

The group first spent a week on St. John in 2009, but had to cancel their 2010 trip because they didn’t have enough funds.

Love City is making sure that will never happen again.

In 2011, Team River Runner’s St. John coordinator John Schuld and friends came up with the great idea to host an island style kayak race to raise funds for the group. The first year 18 teams took part and they raised about $15,000.

The third annual Chaotic Kayak Race in late July, sponsored by Miller High Life, featured 32 teams and a separate Stand Up Paddle race which drew 13 competitors.

The event raised a bit more than $30,000, ensuring that another group of wounded veterans will have the chance to heal for a week in Love City this fall. Now that’s a pretty amazing beach party if I’ve ever heard of one!

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GIGS & DIGS FROM PAGE 16

he terms a “Jazz ambassadorial initiative,” working with, for instance, the cultural attaché of the Italian embassy to invite various skilled practitioners of the music of that land to appear in a series of dates at the Alley. Japan is a targeted locale for the future, and Harry fondly recalls how a past ambassador of the Netherlands praised his great popularity.

He replied at once, “Oh no, dear lad, it’s not me, but Blues Alley that’s world-famous.” Schnipper tells us, “I only wish everyone visiting DC would come directly to us, but you know, maybe because we are tucked away, so to speak, in the alley, perhaps what was so chic 40 years on, is just hidden from view. Who knows, but places like the Georgetown Inn (and Ritz-Carlton) for instance, have no problem sending groups of nice guests who are looking for unique and high-quality entertainment—directly to us!”

Recently DC councilman Jack Evans proposed in chambers a bill that would designate Blues Alley as a “Historical Venue preserving public live music and cultural entertainment/ employment opportunities” in the District {particularly Georgetown}. Evans, who resides in Georgetown, is a major mayoral candidate for next year’s election. Harry Schnipper feels that this influential leader likes keeping Blues Alley where it has been for the better part of the past 50 years. Particularly since the proposed enactment would protect places that deliver a minimum of 100 live shows per year and at least half the venue’s new employees should be DC residents. The big prize would be an annual tax relief of about $2 million.

Assuring Blues Alley’s continued presence in its original local would surely, in Schnipper’s profound way of putting it, stem a disturbing trend of “Disneyfication” of DC and its potentially glorious homegrown entertainment sites. On this point Harry is particularly passionate. This makes perfectly good sense considering that he is not only the owner of Blues Alley, but president of the nonprofit Blues Alley Foundation which helps to underwrite these noble musical educational programs that Harry champions so dearly. As he puts it “You don’t want to forsake our city’s cultural rewards by tearing out its beating heart!”

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September 2013 | 19

ROAD TRIP REED HELLMAN

Author Reed Hellman

Historic St. Mary’s City

Publisher’s note: For this month’s road trip friend and travel writer, Reed Hellman, will take us on a trip to historic St. Mary’s City in southern Maryland. Join him as he spends a day of plantation living in 1661.

As One Dominion Ended, Another Began

In the first half of the 1600s, life along North America’s Atlantic seacoast changed dramatically from villages of native Woodland people to the settlements of European pioneers. Historic Saint Mary’s City (HSMC), in Maryland’s St. Mary’s County, opens a window into that moment of transition, when one dominion ended and another began.

HSMC blends carefully researched living history and fascinating archaeology with a beautiful tidewater landscape that remains much the same as in 1634 when the Dove sailed into the Potomac River bringing English colonists. The site of the fourth permanent settlement in British North America and Lord Baltimore’s 17th Century capital, St. Mary’s City was a birthplace of religious toleration. But, after the colony’s government moved to Annapolis in 1695, the village disappeared.

Early in the 20th Century, historical research and archaeological excavations began to uncover the early Colonial townsite. Because the ground had remained relatively undisturbed, HSMC has become one of the finest colonial archaeological sites in the nation and a portal into life during the great transition.

To help understand that life, I became a member of the Godiah Spray family 20 | September 2013

on their tobacco plantation and spent a day in 1661.

Part of HSMC, the Spray household members invite 21st Century visitors into their way of living, their kitchen garden, food, medicine, household staples, and ornamentation.

Living the Life

My day began by getting togged in appropriate garb: high stockings, knee britches, a loose shirt that fell well below my waist, and a shapeless green cap.

Altogether, the outfit was uncomfortable and illfitting, much as it would have been in 17th Century Maryland. I walked to the Spray plantation and joined Mistress Rebecca Spray—Roberta Smith— already at work.

If you read plantation and think of Tara or some splendid, elegant antebellum mansion, think again.

John Smith had made his first voyages up the Chesapeake less than 50 years before and the native Yaocomaco people were still in evidence. The isolated English settlement off of the Potomac River was very much raw wilderness, devoted to growing tobacco. Splendor and elegance were in very short supply.

The Spray plantation, a period correct reproduction, consists of a simple two-story, wood Old Town Crier

plank, frame house, a barn for drying tobacco, a large kitchen garden, and adjoining fields. The home would have been considered well-equipped with “many fine things” because it has three glass windows, a wooden floor, and oyster shell plaster walls. Inside lived Godiah and Rebecca Spray, their three daughters, and two indentured servants.

A voluminous brick hearth dominates the first floor. But again, do not look for fancy iron cranes to hang pots or ornate andirons. A few dangling chains serve to hold the simple cookware above the flames.

Most cooking is done in footed pots or on trivets positioned above coals raked onto the hearth.

The foods prepared by Rebecca

Spray and her household are as simple as the furnishings. Although early settlers had access to the wealth of the Chesapeake’s larder, they were most familiar with the recipes and preparations that they had brought over from England.

Strenuous and Messy

Meal preparation was an all-day affair that usually began with producing and gathering the ingredients and cutting and hauling enough firewood to cook them. My day in the Spray household began with feeding the family’s two cows and making apple juice. We used a circular grindstone to crush a cloth bag full of apples laid in a wooden trough. The sweet juice oozed

out of the bag, down the angled trough, and out a bung hole in to a waiting crock. The job was strenuous and messy—as were most chores in 1661.

Moving inside, I helped Mistress Rebecca prepare the day’s main meal: potage with corn cakes and apple coffin. For the potage, I fried beef chunks in an iron pot then added chopped cabbage and turnips from the garden, along with basil and rosemary for flavor. The pot went over the coals and we moved on to the corn cakes.

Sugar and other seasonings were rare commodities in early colonial settlements. Anything that couldn’t be grown in the immediate area had to be imported. To sweeten the corn cakes, Mistress Rebecca used some of the

apple juice that we had so laboriously squeezed. Even with the rich apple flavor, the cakes were dense and a challenge to chew.

The apple coffin—a sort of deep dish pie—was tastier and easier on the palate. A Dutch oven would have been ideal for baking the pie, but those relatively sophisticated cooking implements were not available in that place at that time.

Working in that dimly lit, sparsely furnished kitchen gave me a real feeling of the life that awaited Maryland’s first English settlers. They didn’t see themselves as harbingers of change or agents of transition; they were too consumed with simply surviving the day and bringing in a crop of sweet Orinoco tobacco.

Today’s time travelers can experience hands-on activities at sites throughout HSMC. Exhibits dramatize the events that shaped Maryland and our nation’s first freedoms, and audio and video installations introduce individuals and colonial lifeways. The remarkable artifacts found at the site present a unique perspective on life in another time.

For more information about HSMC, the museum, special events, and related history, visit www.stmaryscity. org, or call 240-895-4960.

Reed Hellman is a professional writer living in Alberton, Md. Visit his website: www.reedhellmanwordsmith. com or email your questions and comments to RHWay2Go@yahoo.com.

Recipes These recipes, graciously provided by HSMC, were used in the story.

Pottage

2 cups of stew beef 4 large turnips, cubed 2 large onions, cubed basil to taste rosemary to taste salt to taste 3 cups of beef broth 2 cups of water 1 iron pot

hand. Position your other hand above the ball. Flatten the ball into a disk shaped cake.

Fry the cake. Brown the cake on both sides.

Apple Pie (coffin)

pastry ingredients: 2 cups corn flour 1 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup cold butter 4 tablespoons cold water

Brown stew beef in pot add some oil to your pan so the meat does not stick. Add broth, water, turnips, onions, and herbs to suit your taste. Boil until all vegetables become tender. Simmer for half an hour.

filling ingredients: 6 tart apples, cored and sliced, leave the peel on ½ cup sugar 2 teaspoons cinnamon 3 tablespoons butter

Corn Cakes

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place sliced apples in a large bowl. Add sugar, cinnamon and butter to the apples. Stir well. Cut half of butter into small pieces and add to apples. Toss apples until coated. Line pan with pastry. Pour apples into pastry-lined pie pan.

Place second pastry on top. Seal edges and cut steam vents in top crust.

(Optional) Pat the top pastry with milk and then sprinkle with a little bit of sugar. Bake in oven for 45 to 55 minutes, until crust is golden brown.

3 cups corn flour ½ cup cider 2 pinches of salt ½ cup of lard water Combine corn flour, cider, salt and lard together into a large bowl. Add water until you form a doughy (like play dough) consistency.

Roll a hand full of dough into a ball. The ball should be the size of a golf ball. Place the ball into the palm of your

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September 2013 | 21

FROM THE BAY… MOLLY WINANS

America’s Cup 2013

The Chesapeake at the Cup 34th America's Cup - Louis Vuitton Cup Finals

T

o go to San Francisco, Calif., and look out upon that white-capped bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and beyond, the rugged hills and lurking fog; to see a flock of pelicans race the wind, a sea lion flap its tail in the cold chop; it’s already worth the long trip. To have a flashy, high-tech flying machine manned by the world’s top sailors foil by at 40 knots ices the cake.

You can say what you want about the America’s Cup. Go ahead. You couldn’t say anything I haven’t already heard or said. It’s a rich man’s game. It’s so convoluted that you can’t tell which team is from which country. You miss the pretty old boats.

I arrived in San Francisco as jaded and prepped to be unimpressed as anyone who loosely follows Cup chatter online—and then I saw it with my own eyes. I tried to play

“It’s All About the Seafood!”

it cool, but I jumped up and down a little.

On Sunday morning, August 18, at the advice of the concierge in my quirky Marina District motel, I looped my fleece over my shoulders and took the twodollar ride from the D muni bus to the F bus to America’s Cup Park on Pier 27. While killing a few hours before picking up my afternoon Louis Vuitton Cup tickets at the other AC venue at Marina

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Green, I planned to stop by the media center and say hello to SpinSheet columnist and AC assistant photographer Franny Kupersmith, and check out the scene.

I found Franny fielding cell phone calls in the sunshine next to one of Oracle CEO Larry Ellison’s mondo sailing yachts. As she spoke about her task of processing Cup photos during racing, a few colorful Red Bull Youth AC 45s sped past in the distance.

Franny was surprised with the substantial Chesapeake connection behind the scenes, including a dozen or so fellow St. Mary’s College grads as well as her former coach Bill Ward, who was working with the Red Bull teams.

I bid Franny farewell and headed toward the AC 45s. Talk about a cool summer vacation. The sailors competing in this first-ever youth AC fleet racing event won’t soon forget the chance to race these neat cats in this stunning venue, with the world watching. I snapped a few pictures of the young sailors docking, with the backdrop of Coit Tower, the iconic Telegraph Hill monument honoring the city’s firemen.

As I wandered around and noted the various cushychaired hospitality tents and media viewing areas with big

September 1-4 Red Bull Youth AC September 7-22 AC Finals Follow the video action via americascup.com There’s an app for that!

Photo: Abner Kingman/ACEA

screens, bean bag chairs, and cornhole boards, I kept hearing T2P.tv founder and Annapolis sailor Tucker Thompson’s voice and seeing his smiling face on the ever-present big screens.

The pre-race coverage bounced back and forth from Tucker and Andy Green over to NBC coverage, including Annapolis sailor Gary Jobson’s take on the races to come. Not that it was a surprise; it was only jarring in that the scene felt European and then there were Gary and Tucker’s familiar voices to bring me back home.

Gary has competed in and won the event (as tactician on Ted Turner’s Tenacious 1977) and commentated on countless Cups. Following his first successful AC commentating gig in Valencia, Spain, Tucker is back in action doing an absolutely bang-up job.

I hopped on the shuttle to Marina Green and found my way to the stands. Somehow I ended up in a section of authentic Luna Rossa fans, chattering in Italian and waving their green, white, and red flags.

To witness these amazing boats whiz by so fast that San Francisco Bay seems like a small lake boggles the brain.

These insane speed machines cover one two-and-a-halfmile leg of the course in six minutes on average. Imagine FROM THE BAY > PAGE 33

Old Town Crier

CalvertCounty

DISCOVER

MARYLAND

ALEXANDRIA’S PLAYGROUND

The historic Old Field House in charming Calvert County is home to the warm ambiance and fabulous food of Saphron, where our guests are transported to another time and place, making the dining experience as memorable as the food itself.

Saphron zealously promotes community involvement through loyal patronage of our local growers from the greater Southern Maryland area.

american cuiSine Southern Style chicken fiSh SteakS SaladS

VOTED BEST CRAB CAKES IN SOUTHERN MARYLAND 2012 Maryland Life

HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS

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

485 main Street prince frederick, maryland

(turn off rt. 4 on to Old Field Rd., by fire station)

443.975.7560 • saphronrestaurant.com

DinneR Tu-Th 5-9 pm Fri & Sat 5-10 pm BRunch Sun noon-4 pm first Sunday of the month only

HISTORY FROM PAGE 23

Old Town Crier

STONEY’S KINGFISHERS SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL

14442 Solomons Island Road • Solomons, Maryland 20688 • SolomonsKingfisher@gmail.com

410.394.0236

September 2013 | 23

Seek the Swirl.

PORT OF LEONARDTOWN WINERY www.portofleonardtownwinery.com

24 | September 2013

Old Town Crier

Ruddy duck craft BeeR on tap Located on beautiful St. George’s Island with a 360 degree water view!

Open Year rOund • SeafOOd & Raw Bar • dOcking pier LeSS than 10 nauticaL MiLeS frOM pt. LOOkOut

16800 Piney Point Road Piney Point, Md 20674 301.994.9944

$20 Discount Tickets Online only through 9/28 www.sotterley.org

October 5th & 6th Noon - 6 p.m.

Wine Tastings from over 23 MD wineries Live Music Artisans

At the gate

$25

Designated Drivers

2013

$15

Exhibits Beer Vendor: Ruddy Duck Brewery Live Demonstrations

Children $5 - Ages 6-20 Free - Under 6

Kid’s Activities Food Vendors

$2 Parking Fee Rain or Shine No Refunds

Old Town Crier

Major Event Sponsors

FREE 1703 Plantation House Mini Tours

44300 Sotterley Lane Hollywood, MD 20636 301-373-2280 | 800-681-0850

September 2013 | 25

More than 40 Virginia Wines!

Diverse flavors prepared by area Food Artisans!

Unique and Collectible Arts & Crafts!

Live Local Music!

Mandorla followed by Magick Kat

Brighton Pandora Waxing Poetic LeStage Convertibles Kameleon Baby Gifts Bath

102 East Davis Street Culpeper, Virginia 540-829-2290

Wine Craft Beer Cheese Cigars Unique Pantry Items Complimentary Tastings and Educational Classes for Wine and Beer Enthusiasts

VIRGINIA

pepperberriesva.com Mon-Sat 10a-6p Sunday Noon-5p

Indulge your curiosity Sunday, October 13, 2013

Noon - 5PM

Depot District Culpeper, VA

TICKETS:

AVAILABLE AT: or ONLINE: 174 E. Davis Street, Culpeper, VA 22701 540.829.WINE • culpeperwines.com • facebook.com/VINOSITY Tue-Thu 10a-6p • Friday 10a-8p • Saturday 10a-6p • Sunday Noon-5p

$15 in Advance | $25 at the Gate $5 Non Tasting (Gate Only) Randyʼs Flowers, StellarOne Bank, Vinosity www.tasteofculpeper.com 540.825.4416 | www.culpeperdowntown.com CRIDowntown |

@CulpepDowntown

www.tasteofculpeper.com |

TasteofCulpeper

discover the charm

Designer’s Choice

CULPEPER HOURS 10a - 5p Mon-Sat

• Gifts • 18th Century Accessories • Floral Arranging Components • Spectacular Furniture Line

155 East Davis Street • 540-825-7694 designerschoice4you.com

Antiques

& More

FeAturing unique giFts to Fine Antiques 154 east Davis street Historic Downtown Culpeper Virginia 540.825.0032 • georgiemaes.com CALL For Hours Visit our Second Location

georgie Mae’s of ruckersville 8287 Seminole Trail • Ruckersville, Va 434.985.1944

Clarke Hardware

202 e davis st historic culpeper 540.825.8415 815 caroline st historic fredericksburg 540.373.1262

tasteovs.com

The area’s largest selection of Lodge cast iron cookware

201 E. Davis St. Old Town Culpeper 540.825.9178 www.clarkehardware.com 26 | September 2013

Culpeper’s Finest Steak & Seafood Restaurant 110 E. Cameron Street • Historic Culpeper, Va. 540.825.4444 • piedmontsteakhouse.com

Old Town Crier

GALLERY BEAT FROM PG 14

others, the left has begun to turn on the President, and I will be curious to see if Utley’s political show addresses the antiPresidential venom so common to past political American art, with an Obama focus.

ArtRomp Returns

Anacostia Arts Center and legendary DMV area curator Molly Ruppert are teaming to bring the notorious group show, “Art Romp” to Anacostia. The exhibition will feature over 50 artists from all sides of the river, exhibiting many modes of artistic expression--including painting, photography, quilting, performance art, new media, and sculpture.

Anacostia Arts Center is located at 1231 Good Hope Road SE.Opening Night is Friday, August 23 from 5-9 pm. The show begins the following day, August 24, and runs until September 15.

During this time the center will be open Tuesday-Friday from 11am-5pm and on Saturdays from Noon-6pm.

The exhibition is free and open to the public.

Anacostia Art Center’s Director Kate Taylor Davis remarks, “In exploring ways to introduce our new facility to the arts community, I immediately thought of Molly Ruppert. Her dedication to nurturing artists and the arts scene in DC is astounding, and I have missed her Art Romps in recent years. I pitched her the idea of taking that energy to Anacostia, and I couldn’t be more excited she said ‘yes.’ ” Molly Ruppert curated Art Romp 20 times over a span of 15 years at her Warehouse Arts Space on New York Avenue.

As director and curator of the space from its initial opening in 1994, Molly has grown to become a much sought over and prominent curator. And in 2012, the Washington Project for the Arts presented Molly with the prestigious "Alice Denney Award" for her support of contemporary art.

Last mounted in 2007, Art Romp originated as a way to give artists the opportunity to display their work in an alternative gallery setting as well as to give them the opportunity to collaborate with other artists throughout the area. Famous for its lively, eclectic and tremendous shows featuring all forms of artistic expression, Art Romp has historically attracted crowds from all sectors of D.C. Old Town Crier

“Like our best friends’ home if our best friends were amazing chefs and knew exactly what we wanted before we asked.”

Trip Advisor

www.hopkinsordinary.com Sperryville, Virginia 540.987.3383

Saturday, October 5th Sunday, October 6th 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

www.culpeperfarmtour.com September 2013 | 27

American DUTCH’S GRILL (Holiday Inn) 2460 Eisenhower Ave. Alexandria, VA 703-960-3400

BILBO BAGGINS 208 Queen St. 703-683-0300 BITTERSWEET 823 King Street 703-549-2708

THE GRILL RESTAURANT/ PIANO BAR AT MORRISON HOUSE 116 S. Alfred St. 703-838-8000

CARLYLE CLUB 411 John Carlyle St. 703-549-8957 CHADWICK’S 203 Strand St. 703-836-4442 chadwicksrestaurants.com An Old Town tradition since 1979 and an original Georgetown pub and restaurant since 1967.

CHART HOUSE One Cameron St. 703-684-5080

EVENING STAR CAFÉ 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-549-5051 FAST EDDIE’S BILLIARD CAFE 6220 Richmond Hwy. 703-660-9444 FIN & HOOF 801 N. Saint Asaph St. 703-836-4700 FINN & PORTER AT MARK CENTER 5000 Seminary Rd. 703-379-2346

CLYDE’S 1700 N. Beauregard St. 703-820-8300 clydes.com

FIRE FLIES 1501 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-548-7200

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

FLAT IRON STEAK & SALOON 808 King St. 703-299-0777

Dining Guide

FOSTERS GRILLE 2004 Eisenhower Ave. 703-725-1342

MAJESTIC CAFÉ 911 King St. 703-837-9117

Zero Prince St. 703-683-6076 dandydinnerboat.com

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

GADSBY’S TAVERN 138 N. Royal St. 703-548-1288

MANCINI’S 1508 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-838-FOOD

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

HARD TIMES CAFE 1404 King St. 703-837-0050

MANGO MIKE’S 4580 Duke St. 703-370-3800

O’CONNELL’S RESTAURANT & BAR 112 King St. 703-739-1124 danieloconnellsrestaurant.com

INDIGO LANDING #1 Marina Dr. Washington Sailing Marina 703-548-0001

McGINTY’S PUBLIC HOUSE 3650 S. Glebe Rd. Potomac Yard Located at Market Square in the Eclipse next to Harris Teeter on Rt.1 703-414-3555

IRELAND’S OWN 111 North Pitt St. 703-549-4535 irelandsownpub.com JACK’S PLACE 222 North Lee St. 703-684-0372

ASIAN BISTRO 809 King St. 703-836-1515

RED MEI 602 King St. 703-837-0094

MALAYA 1019 King St. 703-519-3710

THAILAND, ROYAL ST 835 N. Royal St. 703 535-6622

MAI THAI 9 King St. 703-548-0600

TOKYO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 66 Canal Center Plaza 703-683-8878

BRABO Tasting Room 1600 King St. 703-894-5252

TEMPO 4231 Duke St. 703-370-7900 temporestaurant.com Northern Italian, French provincial and American cuisine featuring fresh seafood, meats and pasta served in a contemporary, romantic atmosphere.

JOE THEISMANN’S 1800 Diagonal Rd. 703-739-0777 KING STREET BLUES 112 N. St. Asaph St. 703-836-8800

LIGHT HORSE RESTAURANT 715 King St. 703-549-0533

Caph’e Ban’h Mi’ Vietnamese 407 Cameron St. 703-549-0800 Sang Jun Thai 300 King Street 571-312-3377

BERTUCCI’S 725 King St. 703-548-8500 BUGSY’S PIZZA RESTAURANT 111 King St. 703-683-0313 bugsyspizza.com FACCIA LUNA 823 S. Washington St. 703-838-5998

NOTTING HILL 1106 King St. 703-299-4590 RESTAURANT EVE 110 S. Pitt St. 703-706-0450 CEDAR KNOLL INN GW Parkway at Lucia Ln. 703-799-1501

LA MADELEINE 500 King St. 703-729-2854

CHEZ ANDREE 10 East Glebe Rd. 703-836-1404

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

TWO NINETEEN RESTAURANT 219 King St. 703-549-1141

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

FONTAINE’S CAFFE & CREPERIE 119 S. Royal St. 703-535-8151

YVES’ BISTRO 235 Swamp Fox Rd. In the Hoffman Center 703-329-1010

28 | September 2013

NICKELL’S AND SCHIFFLER 1028 King St. 703-684-5922 NINA’S DANDY Potomac Party Cruises

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

LANDINI BROTHERS 115 King St. 703-836-8404 landinibrothers.com Elegant, classical Italian cuisine served in a lovely historical setting. Fresh veal, homemade pastas, and fresh fish are some of the daily choices. An extensive list of wines and champagnes served in a sophisticated and friendly atmosphere.

GERANIO RISTORANTE 722 King St. 703-548-0088 geranio.net Still Old Town’s highest-rated Italian restaurant (Zagat). Discerning Old Towners flock here for refined cuisine in this comfortable, yet sophisticated restaurant. With entrees from $14, there is no reason not to enjoy a selection from their Wine Spectator awardwinning list, while being attended by the friendly staff of seasoned professionals. Reservations recommended and casual attire welcomed.

OLD CHICAGO PIZZERIA 2245 Huntington Ave. 703-960-1086

IL PORTO RESTAURANT 121 King St. 703-836-8833

VILLA D’ESTE 600 Montgomery St. 703-549-9477

LA STRADA 1905 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-548-2592 SAPORE D’ITALIA RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA 1310 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-683-9680

PARADISO 124 King St. 703-837-1245 PINES OF FLORENCE 1300 King St. 703-549-1796 RED ROCKS FIREBRICK PIZZA 904 King St. 703-717-9873 TRATTORIA DA FRANCO 305 S. Washington St. 703-548-9338

TRADEMARK 2800 Jamieson Ave. 703-253-8640

RAILSTOP GASTROPUB 901 N. Fairfax St. 703-683-8793 RAMPARTS 1700 Fern St. 703-998-6616 rampartstavern.com REYNOLDS STREET CAFÉ 34 S. Reynolds St. 703-751-0830 ROCK IT GRILL 1319 King St. 703-739-2274 SAMUEL BECKETT’S IRISH GASTRO PUB 2800 S. Randolph St. Villages of Shirlington 703-379-0122

TRADITIONS (Holiday Inn) 625 First St. 703-548-6300 UNION STREET PUBLIC HOUSE 121 South Union St. 703-548-1785 unionstreetpublichouse.com Old Town’s favorite neighborhood tap & grill. Distinct southern style menu, fine steaks, fresh seafood. Sunday brunch, private parties, happy hour.

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

SHOOTER MCGEE’S 5239 Duke St. 703-751-9266

italian • pizzarias

FRENCH BASTILLE 1201 N. Royal St. 703-519-3776 bastillerestaurant.com

MURPHY’S IRISH PUB 713 King St. 703-548-1717 murphyspub.com Old-world Irish pub featuring a roaring fireplace, serving a variety of imported, domestic and non-alcoholic beers in a friendly atmosphere. Serving robust American-Irish meals at fair prices.

Favorites include fish and chips and Irish stew. Irish-style entertainment nightly.

LAPORTA’S 1600 Duke St. 703-683-6313

CONTINENTAL BRABO

by Robert Weidmaier 1600 King St. 703-894-3440

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

JACKSON 20 480 King St. 703-842-2790

asian

MONROES AMERICAN TRATTORIA 1603 Commonwealth Ave. 703-548-5792

OVERWOOD 220 North Lee St. 703-535-3340

T.J. STONES GRILL HOUSE & TAP ROOM 608 Montgomery St. 703-548-1004 tjstones.com American cuisine with libations from around the world. Bar specials Mon-Fri, 4-7 PM. Brunch served Sat & Sun.

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

LA TASCA 607 King St. 703-299-9810 “Spring into Spain and Feast Like a King.” Offering unlimited tapas at lunch and dinner. Choice of dessert included. Lunch 11:30-4:30 for $20.07; dinner 4:30-close for $30.07. Eat a little, drink a little, have a lot of fun!

LAYLA 907 King St. 703-684-3288

CASABLANCA 1504 King St. 703-549-6464

PITA HOUSE 719 King St. 703-684-9194 thepitahouse.com Family owned and operated; carry out available and free delivery.

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

DELIA’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 209 Swamp Fox Rd. Alexandria, VA 703-329-0006

LAS TAPAS 710 King St. 703-836-4000

seafood Hank’s Oyster Bar 1026 King St. 703-739-HANK RT’S RESTAURANT 3804 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-684-6010 FLYING FISH 815 King St. 703-600-FISH flyingfishdc.com Traditional American and fancy seafood specializing in sushi.

FISH MARKET-CLINTON 7611Old Branch Ave. Clinton, MD 301-599-7900 ERNIE’S ORGINIAL CRABHOUSE 1743 King St. 703-836-0046

FISH MARKET-OLD TOWN 105 King St. 703-836-5676 fishmarketoldva.com Internationally known and locally owned! We serve shrimps, a few crabs, tall people and lots of nice people, too! Live music and lively food!

THE WHARF 119 King St. 703-836-2834 wharfrestaurant.com "It’s All About the Seafood," traditional and creative coastal cuisine.

MEXICAN • LATIN SOUTHWESTERN AUSTIN GRILL 801 King St. 703-684-8969 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) INDIAN DISHES OF INDIA 1510A Bellview Blvd.

703-660-6085

Old Town Crier

G GERANIO RISTORANTE

Ireland’s Own Pub

111 N. Pitt St. • old towN alexaNdria

703.549.4535

lIVe MusIC

Open Mic Mondays at 8 pm

PatIOs always OPen and always dog-friendly

HOPe tO see yOu tHere!

Monday-Friday 11 am-2 am • saturday & sunday 10:30 am-2 am

IrelandsOwnPub.com

Redefining Italian Cuisine in Old Town Alexandria Dinner Entrees from $14 722 King Street Old Town Alexandria 703.548.0088 www.geranio.net

“The Finest Lebanese Cuisine” –Washington Post, 2001 Family Owned & Operated Come and Enjoy a Cozy Candlelit Dinner Carry-Out Available • Free Delivery Open 7 Days for Lunch & Dinner

719 King St. Old Town Alexandria 703.684.9194 • thepitahouse.com

Celebrating 40 years in Old Town

Chris, Denise and Nick Papaloizou invite you to join them for lunch or dinner and celebrate the traditional Greek way!

Live Traditional Greek Music, Plate-Breaking and Dancing Every Thursday Beginning at 7:30 P.M. 703.548.8688 • TAVERNACRETEKOU.COM 818 King Street • Old Town AlexandriA

TAVERNA CRETEKOU REGIONAL GREEK CUISINE SINCE 1973

Old Town Crier

September 2013 | 29

DINING OUT VINCENTARRUNATEGUI

BACK CREEK BISTRO Gain access to one of the most intimate views of the Chesapeake matched with the thoughtful hospitality of a classic neighborhood bistro to make for the perfect nightcap after a day trip to Southern Maryland.

Atmosphere: polished, intimate Service: gentle, intelligent Drink: $7-$10 Plates: $15-$30 Open: Wednesday-Sunday 5 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Reservations: 410-326-9900 14415 Dowell Road Solomons, MD 20629 backcreekbistro.com 30 | September 2013

Back Creek Bistro A hidden gem

L

iving on the Chesapeake has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. With the hustle and bustle of local watermen, the serene postcard like images offered by the Bay’s flora and fauna, and many thrilling water related activities the Free State has to offer, I am always trying to get my friends and family back up North to come down for a visit. Day trips to Southern Maryland become very routine for me in the late summer and early fall, and though I am usually playing tour guide, there is nothing more delightful than relying on various people and establishments to aide in my hospitality.

With the large boating community on the water a lot of weekend social endeavors are kept within the seemingly private walls of marinas and yacht clubs that are clustered on prime locations down the coast. Folks both out of town and local, however, can find the classic comforts of an upscale marina and restaurant at the Back Creek Bistro.

Located at the end of Dowell road, just north of Solomons Island, the bistro stands tall in a recovered World War II power plant. Working in conjunction with Calvert Marina, a top-notch establishment for local boat owners, customers can tie-off in one of the many available slips offered while they eat their dinner at the restaurant. For any further service Calvert Marina can be contacted at 410-326-4251; they are incredibly helpful.

For the past three years, the restaurant has been under the guidance of a retired defense contractor by the name of Richard Fitzwater. More commonly known to regulars as ‘Fitz,’ he works tirelessly on the weekends to bring very timeless dinner service to patrons. On Fridays he plays live music—usually a few jazz pieces mixed in with some American standards—and on Saturdays he bills outside acts who fill the dining room with cheer. When he is not in front of the microphone with his guitar, Fitz can be found behind the bar mixing up his twist on classic cocktails or shooting

the breeze with locals.

The first course I sampled while dining at Fitz’s place was the lobster bisque.

Lobster is definitely not a common fruit of the Chesapeake Bay but with lobster prices cooling down this year Back Creek Bistro has capitalized on one of the most delicious bisques in the Southern Maryland area—trust me, I’ve tried most.

With beautiful chunks of steamed lobster the thick bisque is cut poignantly with rich sherry and seasoned just right— the soup was the perfect beginning to my meal. I’m very happy I opted for it instead of the garden salad.

The menu at Back Creek Bistro is very straightforward. Steaks, pastas, and every safe option you can think of ordering at a fine dining establishment. I describe the food here as safe, but done with class— you can tell there is a back of the house that is focused on the presentation of their work. My favorite classic served at this establishment is the chicken DINING OUT > PAGE 31

Old Town Crier

DINING OUT FROM PG 30

Chesapeake. Two nice slices of chicken butterflied and broiled with a very healthy helping of crab imperial. Served with a few different sides (you get two), there was no way I would be ordering the Smith Island cake for dessert—but damn that sounded good. Each entrée comes with two sides of your choice: french fries, baked or roasted potatoes, coleslaw, and veggies of the day.

Next I had to try out the special just to see if the kitchen was really cooking with gas.

That night they were offering a grilled swordfish with capers and creamy lemon sauce. The fish was cooked just right, not too tough but cooked through.

The sauce was well paired and made for a hearty late summer’s dinner. The special did not have pre-designed sides and this was a bit of a disappointment to me. I like it when my specials are matched by the kitchen, but, again the Back Creek Bistro focuses on the comfort of the guest and I have some empathy for this decision.

One of my favorite aspects of the Back Creek Bistro is the small bar I referred to at the beginning of my column. It sits tucked in the side of the dining room with room for 6-8 patrons. The bartenders that keep your glasses filled with classic cocktails and thoughtful selections of wine are sharp and intellectually curious people. They are keen on conversation. For a weekday, this is the perfect place to just go and hide away. It’s calm, normally with a nice standard playing and very comfortable.

Even though the bar is small, it is special because of Fitz’s attention to detail.

Weekends at the bistro go a bit differently as the dining room tends to get a little more packed and open spots at the bar become sparse. The upside however, is that Fitz normally has a solid act billed for the evening or plays himself. This is something not to miss. It is very classy and the music isn’t overwhelming allowing guests to take advantage of the private-like acoustics the dining room has to offer. It’s super intimate.

With the poise of a yacht club, views of a waterside resort, and the quaintness of a neighborhood fork and spoon, the folks at Back Creek Bistro are maintaining one of the most intimate settings in Calvert County.

Old Town Crier

Celebrating 30 Years!

“Bugsys has become one of the hottest places to grab a pizza pie in the area!”

–Gazette Packet

Dining, Sports Bar & Delivery Former NHL and Capitals star, Bryan “Bugsy” Watson, invites you to enjoy Old Town’s best pizza and sports bar since 1983!

SERVING ALEXANDRIA FOR 30 YEARS • 1983-2013 111 King St•Old Town Alexandria 703.683.0313•www.bugsyspizza.com

®

Your Home for New England Football Join Us for Our Famous Sunday Brunch 10 am-3 pm Live Music 7 Nights a Week with No Cover!

713 King Street • Old Town Alexandria 703.548.1717 • murphyspub.com September 2013 | 31

CHEF’S SPECIAL CHESTER SIMPSON

photo: ©2013 Chester Simpson

Peter Kannasut

where the smallest details make a world of difference and balance is essential but difficult to achieve.

The restaurant’s official name is a Japanese character which means “dream.” This has a two-sided meaning: it is the dreams of the guests which I wish to make come true, as well as my own dream to share my love and knowledge with them and with my fellow cooks by putting forward delicious food. The culinary industry is unlike any other: like other kinds of artists, we provide entertainment for a living; but unlike any other kind of artist, cooks provide the actual material necessary to live. I am thankful to be able to make a living by helping others live a happier life for the moments they spend in each other’s company eating my food. It is truly a dream come true, and by now it is hard to see why I wouldn’t have pursued a career in this field!

Who has been your greatest inspiration?

Without a doubt, my greatest professional inspiration has been my mentor, Chef Sakai, a former winner of Japan’s Iron Chef competition.

Training under him with the Ra Sushi Company, I learned not only the technical skills necessary for a good sushi chef, but also saw in PETER KANNASUT him the passion for good food, IS THE CHEF OF the dedication to the art, and the THE SUSHI BAR unending search for perfection— 2312 MT. VERNON AVENUE qualities that have made him such ALEXANDRIA a success in the culinary world.

571-257-3232 These are characteristics I wish to SUSHIDELRAY.com carry forward in my own work, Chef Kannasut prepares (below) and serves his very own sushi creation—Omakase. and a big part of my dream is to honor Chef Sakai’s example.

When did you first become interested in to decide what career path to follow during my college years. But while What dish on the menu are you most cooking? Why did you decide to pursue looking for a job in the meantime, I curious to see how it is received? a culinary career? was hired by a master sushi chef I was Overall, I am most curious to see I grew around the kitchen, as my lucky enough to know.

This was about my guests’ reaction when they order family owned a traditional Thai fourteen years ago, and was actually my omakase, my seven course tasting restaurant back in Bangkok, and my first introduction to the world of menu, because it’s a free-format while I didn’t spend much time there sushi.

I was immediately fascinated by option giving me the chance to share cooking, I developed my love of eating the artful way in which dishes were with them my crazy ideas on sushi. and tasting around their food. But plated; in terms of presentation, it was Depending on the night, I am often like many kids, I didn’t always dream unlike any other culinary style I had able to deliver dishes personally to of following in the family business. ever encountered—simple but elegant, guest in order to explain the food they When I came to America, I struggled

32 | September 2013

receive. This gives me the opportunity to get immediate feedback on previous courses and I can use it to tailor the meal to their individual tastes. I strive to improve on my omakase each time I am given the chance to create, in order to make sure every customer is totally satisfied with their experience. With the quiet, kid-free atmosphere and seven hopefully artful dishes, I hope every guest who leaves it up to me thoroughly enjoys their time at the restaurant.

What do you do to insure the quality of the food going out to guests is of high quality?

I purchase fish only from reputable sources and check every day to make sure that the fresh catch delivered to our restaurant is of the highest quality. I also personally go to local markets to select fresh vegetables to be included in our dishes. My team and I work together not only to keep up this level of quality, but to ensure our creations are visually appealing and impeccably tasty. This way I can be confident that our guests will receive top-quality dishes worthy of every dollar they spend in our care.

If any chef in the world could prepare a meal for you, who would it be?

Without a doubt, that would have to be Chef Gordon Ramsay. He has incredibly demanding standards for every dish that goes out to his guests.

I am a big fan; I consider him one of my idols.

What’s your guilty food pleasure?

Everything! I enjoy the challenge to take any ingredient one could think of and produce from it an artful, tasty dish. My philosophy is that a good chef can take seemingly ordinary, mundane foods (as long as the ingredients are of a certain quality) and turn them into something of a miracle.

If you would like to see your favorite chef featured here, send information to: chester@chestersimpson.com.

Old Town Crier

½PRICE BURGERS!

DAILY MON-FRI ‘TIL 3 PM

FOR OVER 25 YEARS… Union Street Public House has been Old Town’s favorite neighborhood Tap & Grill, sure to please the whole family!

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FROM THE BAY FROM PG 22

sailing from Annapolis to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge in 10.8 minutes. That’s silly fast. The top boat speed recorded as of this writing was 48.7 knots or 56 miles per hour.

As for the dog and pony show onshore, think Jimmy Buffett concert. The parking lot scene is just as much fun as the show itself.

When the show’s on, you’re thankful to have the jumbo screens to bring you in closer to the spectacle, much closer, as each boat boasts six onboard cameras. While waiting for the race to start (most of the time), the show on the big screens amuses and educates spectators. If you’re lucky enough to get there the day after a nose dive crash, as I was, you’ll see the replay 20 times from at least six different perspectives.

AC spectators find excellent food, beer, Ben and Jerry’s, and espresso on site. On the fun potential scale, the venue is a 10. Scenery? 10.

Is it perfect as an America’s Cup? No way.

The cutting edge has proven to be a messy place. The significant safety restrictions put in place following Andrew “Bart” Simpson’s death in May changed the game in positive Old Town Crier

ways—yet the wind restriction confines racing on this notoriously windy bay. Racing was postponed two days in a row for winds in excess of 20 knots. And then there were the daily breakdowns mid-race that led to one limping boat and one finisher. (The Italians in the stands cheered when Emirates TNZ stalled and Luna Rossa pressed on.) Such is life in the real fast lane, where “match racing” has thus far been one-legged.

But remember that for previous editions of the AC, over a 162 year span, spectators have had to travel 10-15 miles offshore. No bean bag chairs, entertainment, crash replays, rock and roll jams on the big screen, or cool digital visuals. Imperfect as it is, if you have a chance to see some of this awesome spectacle in September, my recommendation is to go west, my friends. Go! Winans is the editor of SpinSheet sailing magazine located in Eastport, Md.

September 2013 | 33

BEHIND THE BAR CHESTER SIMPSON

photo: ©2013 Chester Simpson

Jimmy Cunniff

James is serving "The Iron Curtain" at Flat Iron Restaurant. He is behind the bar Monday-Wednesday, 4 pm to midnight and Thursday-Saturday, 4 pm to close.

How did you get started bartending?

I got my start when I was 18 . I was finishing up my last month of high school when a friend asked if I wanted to bartend a couple nights a week. I told him I was up for it but had no clue what I was doing. I met the owner twice.

The first day when he gave

taste original. try rye.

At Copper Fox we malt our own barley, gently kiln dry the grain with soft sweet apple wood and cherry wood smoke, and pot-still in small batches, one barrel at a time.

Sip it. Mix it. Love it.

TM

DISTILLERY ENTERPRISES, L.L.C. SPERRYVILLE, VIRGINIA

Tours daily. Go to www.copperfox.biz

34 | September 2013

JAMES “JIMMY“ CUNNIFF IS BEHIND THE BAR AT FLAT IRON STEAK & SALOON 808 KING STREET OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA 703-299-0777 FLATIRONKINGSTREET.COM me the keys and told me not to burn down the bar. The second time was when he was closing the doors on the place.

What is your bartender pet peeve?

There is usually a list of nonos among most bartenders (snapping your fingers, waving, whistling) all of which are guaranteed to aggravate almost any bartender. If I had to narrow it down it’s probably the person that says “hook me up and I'll take care of you.”

You immediately know they are going to leave the worst tip. The more you give away at a bar the less you get back.

What’s the best line somebody has used to get a free drink?

People are always trying to get free drinks. I don’t blame them. Usually it’s the birthday one that will get you a free shot. All the girls want something that’s fruity but strong and guys just want something strong. Some women can convince guys to buy them free drinks all night with the hope of a phone number exchange. Some guys are dumb enough to play right into it.

What is the best pick up line you’ve heard?

Best pickup line? I saw a guy ranting and raving one

night about how he was bit by a shark and survived. After hours of boasting and boozing with these two girls who kept daring him to show them the scar, he ripped off his shirt and actually had a big shark bite across his ribcage.

Tell us an interesting story?

In all the years I have been doing this I have seen some pretty wild scenes. Fights, marriage proposals, parties.

But most recently I was on my way to work when a three car accident was blocking the intersection two blocks from where I needed to be. I was late for work only by a few minutes but it aggravated me for half the day. After serving a customer I asked him if the food was good and if he had a good time. He told me he just totaled his new car because a woman ran a red light and smashed into him. It was his accident that blocked my way to work. Sometimes you just never know who you’re talking to or who might have had a rougher start to their day than you.

Who would you most like to sit down and have a drink with?

Living ? Probably will Ferrell. Probably could have a couple beers and not stop laughing for a while. Dead?

Marilyn Monroe. She was famous 50 years ago and people still constantly talk about her. She left one hell of a lasting impression.

Have a favorite bartender you’d like to see featured here?

Send your request to chester@ chestersimpson.com.

Old Town Crier

SPIRITUAL RENAISSANCE PEGGIE ARVIDSON

Your Life Path

What it has to say about your management style

Y

our Life Path is also often called your Life School in the world of Hand Analysis (otherwise known as non-predictive palmistry.) I use the terms pretty interchangeably in my business and like to clarify that your life path/ school is identified solely through the congregation of your fingerprints.

Your life path/school acts as a filter for everything else happening in your hands –including the way you choose to fulfill your life person and adapt and learn your life lessons.

The Life School/Path is a great tool for understanding your inherent way of being as a manager. Whether you own your own business or you recruit, hire, train and retain team members in your corporate environment having a handle on your Life Path/School is a great edge in the workplace.

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There are four Life Paths. Each of us on the planet is in at least one of these paths and some of us are in two. It’s a rare person indeed who will be in three paths, but it could happen.

Here you’ll find a brief description of each path and the go-to way a person in that path is likely to manage others. If you want to know your life path or the paths of those in your workplace a private session would be in order. It’s likely though you’ll have some leaning to your style even without translating your fingerprints.

Life Path: Service

The Life Path of Service is all about making the world a better place on a grand scale. If you’re on this path you are compelled to put the “greater good” ahead of just about anything else (including the individual needs of yourself or other people.) People on

this path tend to see the big picture, and usually lean away from big expressions of feelings or emotions.

The challenge can be that you come off as tough or critical when you’re only trying to get to the bottom line. As a manager you get flabbergasted at the sheer number of “human emotions” you have to deal with every day and you wish you could simply do the work and have your team do the work without all the feelings! As you master your path you move into a deeper place of empowerment with your team (vs. co-dependence) and you can lead with heart while keeping your eye on the desired outcomes.

Life Path: Love

The Life Path of Love is all about letting each individual come into their own and feel authentic as they do their work. If you’re on this path you are

compelled to get to know your team members and really long to know what makes them “tick.” You like the office celebrations and you create extra hours in your day to keep your door open and listen to what’s happening in the lives of your team members. You see the best in each person but if they mess up, say something snarky behind your back or don’t understand your deep need for connection you can take it personally. You might spend time wondering what you’ve done to turn them off or make them angry and you can harbor a decent amount of resentment and pain when you feel left out. As you master your path you stand in a place that honors your need for emotional authenticity and resist the urge to align your worth to how another person on your team seems to feel about you.

SPIRITUAL RENAISSANCE > PAGE 42

September 2013 | 35

GRAPEVINE NEIL WILLIAMSON

Jefferson VineyardS

Keeping it real in the shadow of Monticello

L

ocated literally in the shadow of Thomas Jefferson’s home— Monticello—just outside of Charlottesville, Jefferson Vineyards has been making Virginia wine history for more than forty years.

Every community has its own peculiarities. In Charlottesville, especially the University of Virginia area, residents and students alike refer to the third president as Mr. Jefferson, as if he might saunter in with his walking stick any moment. Without question, Charlottesville, the University and the American wine industry owe a great deal to this central Virginia farmer.

Mr. Jefferson brokered the sale of the land that is now Jefferson Vineyards to a Florentine viticulturalist, Filipo Mazzei.

Jefferson regularly looked in on his neighbor and offered his advice with high hopes for the success of the vineyards.

Recognized by Wine Spectator as The Father of American Wine, Jefferson longed for his country to grow wine.

“We could, in the United States, make as great a variety of wines as are made in Europe, not exactly the same kinds, but doubtless as good.”

Thomas Jefferson The first plantings of European vinifera varieties were in the early 1770s—in full view of Monticello. Initial production hopes were thwarted by a severe frost in 1774. While records are scarce there is 36 | September 2013

some limited documentation that Mazzei was able to produce two barrels of wine from surviving grapes. The document indicates the wine was unpalatable and there were no records found to suggest what variety of grape it was made from.

Legend has it the vineyards were trampled by infantry members camping on the property during the Revolutionary War. While we have not been able to verify this often repeated claim we do know that at some point in the late 18th century these vineyards were converted to other agricultural uses until the vineyards were reestablished by the Woodard family.

In 1981, the Woodard family worked with Gabriele Rausse in the establishment of Simeon Vineyards which later became Jefferson Vineyards. Like Rausse, over the years a large number of influential Virginia wine professionals have earned their stripes at Jefferson Vineyards including Michael Shaps, Jake Bushing and Andy Reagan. In an interesting twist of fate, Jefferson Vineyards was also a part of the South African Winemaker Apprentice program encouraging and empowering black winemakers from South Africa.

Today, the Woodard family continues to pursue Jefferson’s dream. Under the leadership of the third generation, general manager Attila Woodard provides vision and strategic direction to the entire farm operation.

The wines of Jefferson Vineyards are quite good throughout the entire

Old Town Crier

portfolio. Last year Wine Spectator wrote “Jefferson winery produces 12 wines from 25 acres and has one of the region’s most consistent track records.”

Stopping into the tasting room on a busy Saturday afternoon, the space was filled with laughter and fun as couples and groups enjoyed the charm and knowledge of the pourers behind the bar. We had a short wait to get a spot at the tasting bar but our soon to be server, Bob, did not rush the group ahead as he appropriately introduced each wine.

Regular Grapevine readers know that Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio come from the same grape, but different styles—both are flavorful, but wine named Pinot Gris typically provides more body and rounder fruits while Pinot Grigio gives lighter-bodied, citrus fruits. Jefferson Vineyards 2011 Pinot Gris ($17.95) is stainless steel fermented preserving the upfront fruit on the attack. The midpalate is surprisingly round with citrus notes and spice. The finish lingers only slightly with a crisp white grapefruit and apricot undercurrent.

Jefferson’s 2011 Chardonnay Reserve ($24.95) was fermented in 100 percent French Oak providing a nice subtle attack with vanilla notes throughout.

The midpalate expanded nicely to expose fig and poached pears. As expected the finish lingered nicely with honey and a hint of roasted almonds.

This would be an excellent wine to pair with savory grilled chicken.

Much of the wine world is all aflutter about Rosé these days. This phenomenon occurs about every

seven years and usually coincides with a rainier than desired growing season. That being said, exposing my anti-Rosé bias, Jefferson’s 2011 Rosé ($12.95) is simply delightful. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Vidal Blanc and an unnamed white hybrid, the sharp nose leads to a flavorful midpalate with watermelon, maraschino cherry and tropical notes. The finish is brief and fleeting but this is to be expected in a properly structured Rosé.

Wine is not just about a place, it is about a specific time in that place. For this reason many of Jefferson’s current red vintages are labeled “non-vintage.”

By labeling non-vintage, winemakers can blend in a portion of a previous vintage to increase the structure or complexity of the wine.

Jefferson’s current NV Cabernet Franc ($21.95) is a good example of the benefits of such blending.

Eighty percent of the wine is from 2011 with the balance from 2010.

The resultant wine looks more like a Pinot Noir but carries the body of Cabernet Franc. The bright, slightly light, color hints at the brighter than average nose. The attack features red cherry undercurrent and lighter than anticipated tannic structure.

The round mouth feel is satisfying even absent the astringency usually associated with the grape. The finish is surprisingly long with hints of white pepper, leather and tobacco.

Perhaps the most interesting wine in this tasting was Jefferson’s 2010 Meritage ($29.95). The etched bottle featuring Thomas Jefferson’s signature

provides a good visual cue to the property’s historical connection. This wine is as complex as founding father Thomas Jefferson’s personal history and family tree [Google it!]. A blend of 40% Merlot, 33% Cabernet Franc, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% Petit Verdot this wine presents a deep dark crimson in the glass from rim to rim. Over thirty months in American and French oak provides the component flavors ample opportunity to become well integrated. Subtle dark cherry attack leads to a midpalate with cascading flavors of strawberry, raspberry, black cherry and coca. The refined finish lingers like an old friend after a summer picnic with highlights of coffee, tobacco and dark chocolate.

Located literally in the shadow of Monticello, Jefferson Vineyards grows the majority of its fruit on sites selected

by Thomas Jefferson in 1774. Now almost 240 years later, the Woodard family has proven Jefferson right by producing wines that are “doubtless as good” as the best in the world.

Jefferson Vineyards is open seven days a week, year round from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. Tastings are $10 and include a crystal Riedel glass. Tours are complimentary with the purchase of a tasting. Tours are given at 1 and 2 p.m. www.jeffersonvineyards.com Neil Williamson is chairman of the Virginia Wine Club tasting panel and editor of the Virginia Wine Journal.

Reach him at editor@vawineclub.com.

Grapevine Columnist to Host ‘You Be The Judge’ Tasting Tent Now in its third year, The Virginia Wine Festival’s ‘You Be The Judge’ (YBTJ) tasting tent turns the festival experience on its head. Rather than guests walking up to the winery tents, they stay in the shade and have the tastings delivered to them.

In addition to great wines, the 38th annual Virginia Wine Festival, held at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia September 14th and 15th will feature live music and a unique array of both free and ticketed tasting and learning opportunities.

Old Town Crier

The YBTJ tent will highlight wines from: Barboursville Vineyards, Democracy Vineyards, DuCard Vineyards, Horton Cellars, Potomac Point Winery, Prince Michel Vineyards, Rockbridge Vineyards, Rosemont Vineyards, Stone Mountain Vineyards, and many more.

The Old Town Crier’s own Neil Williamson will serve as host introducing each varietal and explaining the grape and winemaking styles used to craft the wine. Williamson tastes all the wines in advance of the event and shares both his tasting notes and stories about the

people who make Virginia wine. Along the way Williamson will entertain you with anecdotes from his decade plus of service to Virginia wine.

Advance sales of the YBTJ Tasting Tent have been brisk. As last year’s tent sold out, festival organizers encourage ordering tickets early at www.virginiawinefest.com

CHRIS RITZCOVAN Winemaker, Jefferson Vineyards Hometown I grew up in South Salem, New York, but Charlottesville has been home for the past ten years.

Item always in your refrigerator Fresh veggies from the garden and eggs from my chickens Most challenging wine pairing (and how you solved it) Our last Bastille Day Dinner at the Vineyard had a challenging salad course with a slow cooked egg. We wanted to pair it with a red from our library. I was reminded of how bacon can fix anything.

Best thing about the Virginia wine industry The camaraderie between those in the industry— we are always learning from one another in an effort to continuously improve our product.

Worst thing about the Virginia wine industry The rain!

Favorite bumper sticker or saying Farmland Lost is Farmland Lost Forever Comfort food You can make tacos out of anything.

Most embarrassing moment There’s nothing like getting soaked during pump overs when the hose slips.

Most overrated virtue Acceptance Favorite wine (yours or anyone else’s) Our recently bottled 2010 Estate Reserve (a Cab Franc and Petit Verdot blend) and our 2012 Chardonnay Reserve—it was the first wine I blended as winemaker.

September 2013 | 37

SAVE THE DATE!

VIRGINIA WINE Trail Profiles

T HE FRIENDS OF JEFFERSON PATTERSON PARK AND MUSEUM , I NC .

ANNOUNCE T HE 11 TH ANNUAL

Affair at Point Farm Benefit Auction & Dinner

Bedford County Wine Trail bedfordwinetrail.com The Bedford Wine Trail in the Central Virginia region includes five vineyards and wineries surrounding Bedford.

Blue Ridge Wine Way www.blueridgewineway.com The Blue Ridge Wine Way features eight wineries and vineyards in the spectacular mountains of the Northern Virginia region.

Botetourt County Wine Trail botetourtwinetrail.com The Wine Trail of Botetourt Country features 3 wineries in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

S ATURDAY E VENING , S EPTEMBER 14 TH , 2013 6 PM—9:30PM TO

L IVE

S ILENT A UCTIONS E DUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AT P ATTERSON P ARK AND M USEUM AND

BENEFIT

J EFFERSON

TO BE A SPONSOR , DONATE AUCTION ITEMS AND / OR TO PURCHASE TICKETS CALL

410-586-8515

- $50 PER PERSON 1 ST - $60 PER PERSON

ADVANCE TICKETS AFTER SEPTEMBER

F RIENDS

OF

F OR TICKETS BY MAIL , SEND PAYMENT TO JPPM, 10115 M ACKALL R D ., S T . L EONARD , MD 20685 VISA AND MASTERCARD ACCEPTED

BECOME A PART OF HISTORY !

E NJOY D INNER , D RINKS , M USIC

AND

D ANCING

WHILE SUPPORTING ONE OF SOUTHERN MARYLAND ’ S TREASURES The Friends of the Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization registered with the IRS and the Maryland Secretary of State, and is eligible to receive tax deductible donations. A copy of our financial statement is available on request.

Taste the Altitude!

Climb the Mountain— Stone Mountain Vineyards

Eastern Shore Wine Trail esvatourism.org The Eastern Shore of Virginia Wine Trail hosts three wineries along the Land Between Two Waters. This area is a unique rural coastal environment. Hundreds of miles of Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay shoreline provide a wealth of recreational opportunities for beachlovers, fishermen, and boaters in addition to wine lovers.

Fauquier County Wine Trail fauquiertourism.com/wineries.html Fauquier County is home to 16 wineries and vineyards —each with its own unique flavors. Enjoy awardwinning Virginia wines, wine tastings and tours.

Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail svwga.org The Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail is an association of six vineyards and wineries.

Loudoun Wine Trail visitloudoun.org Loudoun’s Wine Trail in Northern Virginia takes you through Virginia’s hunt country to 23 participating wineries.

Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail chesapeakebaywinetrail.com The Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail, in the Chesapeake Bay region, highlights six different wineries.

Heart of Virginia Wine Trail www.hovawinetrail.com The Heart of Virginia Wine Trail in Central Virginia presents several events throughout the year at four wineries located in the central region of the state.

Blue Ridge Wine Trail blueridgewinetrail.com The Blue Ridge Wine Trail features five wineries and vineyards in the spectacular mountains all within minutes of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

General’s Wine & History Trail thegeneralswinetrail.com In 2009, 10 wineries banded together to form a new type wine trail experience. The new wine trail experience was to tie our rich wine heritage with our rich historical heritage and thus the General’s Wine & History Trail was born.

GOVERN2006 O GOLD MR’S CUP E WINNE DAL R

Monticello Wine Trail monticellowinetrail.com The Monticello Wine Trail leads to 24 wineries from its hub in Charlottesville.

Source: Virginia Wine Marketing Office

Call: 434-990-WINE Visiting Virginia’s Wine Country 1376 Wyatt Mountain Road Dyke, Virginia 22935

www.StoneMountainVineyards.com 38 | September 2013

Town Crier Ad 1/4 page ad 6"w x 6.5"h

info@stonemountainvineyards.com

It’s always a good idea to call before visiting. Many Virginia wineries are small, familyowned operations and may be closed during the time you are planning to visit. If you are a group of eight or more, call ahead to help the winery prepare for your visit and to make sure they can accept groups. Most of our wineries have grape cluster highway signs within a ten-mile radius pointing the way to the winery. Many of these signs also tell you how many miles to go before reaching the winery.

Old Town Crier

EXPLORING VIRGINIAWINES DOUG FABBIOLI

Bits & Pieces

A

s I am write, we are a few days from receiving our first grapes of the season. I have a long list of lots of little things and a few big things to accomplish in order to make the season go well. On the plus side, if the season goes as planned, I can finish a few of the small things as activity ramps up. The soft opening of the harvest season is similar to that of a restaurant. Some of the items on the list may not get done depending on the timing of the ripening of the fruit. We try to address each issue with an emphasis on priority and quality knowing that we still have a lot of fruit ahead of us —getting it right is very important.

Some of the bigger issues involve plumbing and electrical work. I am always thankful to my father for having taught me how to do a bit of these trades many years ago. My skills have grown since learning from him, and I always try to pass on those skills to my staff so they can make things work as well.

We have a new chilling system to hook up to our new tanks. We have increased the white wine production dramatically over the past few years. Tanks and chilling are important tools in every winery in order to make this work successfully.

One of the challenges from the season in the vineyard is the uneven ripening of the Merlot and Tannat. Because of the frost back in May, we have some clusters that are further ahead in development than others. Currently we can see the dramatic difference between these two crops. We are hoping that we can find a visible difference between these clusters at harvest time so we can let the later ones hang for another couple of weeks giving them a chance to develop flavor. Usually, we will do a green harvest at this point, meaning drop the green clusters and leave the advanced clusters to ripen further. With the lower yields this year, I am trying to bring in as much fruit as possible. The process may take more time and money to harvest but it is fruit we need. Our crew works with us all year long so I never feel that asking them to learn a new technique is a waste of time. I also know that they will use these skills in other vineyards that they work. Helping out the industry is a great side benefit. I hope it all works.

As the seasons change and Fall comes on, it is a great time to visit your local winery. Fermentation is in the air and the grapes are coming in strong. We are again processing more fruit than the previous year as many other vineyards are. I am lucky to be in an emerging industry that puts time into improving the quality as well as the quantity. This is a key to successfully growing our recognition in the world of wine.

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Tasting Room Hours - Open Year Round Thursday-Saturday, & Monday 11-5 pm • Sunday 12 pm (noon)- 5 pm Now available at La Bergerie The Grille at the Morrison House and the12/23/2010 Virginia Shop Mention or bring this ad restaurant, for a complimentary tasting for two through

10100 Three Fox Ln. • Delaplane, VA • 540-364-6073

A small, family winery focused on quality, sustainable farming and our community Visit us and other quality wineries on the Loudoun Wine Trail–www.loudounfarms.org Serving your local red wine needs since 2006 Open Daily 11am - 5pm Educational wine events

Fabbioli Cellars Douglas Fabbioli Colleen M. Berg 15669 Limestone School Rd Leesburg 703-771-1197 www.fabbioliwines.com

September 2013 | 39

Delaplane, Virgin ia

Wine Tastings and Private Events in the Home of Chief Justice John Marshall w w w . E x p e r i e n c e O a k H i l l . c om

Discover & Taste: virginiawine.org 40 | September 2013

Old Town Crier

GO FISH STEVE CHACONAS

Going Straight, Never Tune Again

W

hen crankbaits don’t run true, use needle nose pliers to bend the line tie left or right or even slightly up or down to put the lure on track.

When visiting the Potomac for a tournament, Kellogg’s Ranger pro Dave Lefebre demonstrated crankbait tuning. Running left, hold the crankbait with the line tie facing you and bend slightly to the right. Baits running to the right, the opposite.

Bending up or down also affects the action. Lefebre says take great care to avoid damaging the line tie. The FLW pro says baits sometimes come out of tune from the package, after being snagged, hitting rocks, with a fish, or even being crammed into a tackle box. He monitors

crankbait tracking.

A new Arashi Series crankbait from Storm Lures eliminates tuning. Lefebre says the design is so unique, even pro staffers were kept in the dark. Lefebre returned home from a tournament road trip finding a package from Storm. “They sent a box with the new prototypes. They kept it a big secret to secure patent protection.” Lefebre ran the new Arashi in the lake to see for himself. “It’s a power crank for cranking into cover, smashing it off of stuff; it has a circuit board bill that doesn’t break. Full contact crank, this is the linebacker of crankbaits.”

While practicing for June’s Potomac Everstart tournament, he finished 14th, Lefebre demonstrated Arashi’s action, eager to tournament test.

Arashi’s no-tune feature will attract fishermen, saving

Bassing IN SEPTEMBER Potomac River

Potomac River grasses are dying off, creating a musical chairs situation for bass. Finding sparse grass opens up the tacklebox for great fishing and more comfortable fishing weather.

Mann’s Baby 1-Minus can be cranked around grass and through wood. Use 12-pound test GAMMA Copoly or Edge fluorocarbon line. Same line for chatterjigs!

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time when tying on baits in the heat of battle not worrying about bending a line tie when storing or tuning them, but the new self-tuning line tie allowing it to hunt for its center will hook fish! The initial pull of the lure allows the line tie to move left or right and up and down to find the ideal retrieval location.

Glancing off cover, upon retrieval Arashi briefly drifts left or right, shallower or deeper until the center is once again located. Erratic action has never been manufactured into a lure. In the old days, “imperfect” lures would “hunt” but were impossible to reproduce. Old timers bought dozens of lures seeking a “flawed” bait possessing this hunting characteristic. Arashi unleashes this “imperfection” right out of the box.

Seeking a tournament

test, Lefebre stashed his Arashi inventory into his Ranger tackle box. His next tournament stop was the late July Lake Champlain Everstart

event. Noting Champlain’s unusually high water, Lefebre used his two practice days to develop a pattern pitching GO FISH > PAGE 44

Work Mann’s HardNose Swimbaits with 7/0 Mustad ¼ ounce swimbait hooks on 16-pound test GAMMA Edge through grass and around wood. Best when water is fairly clear. Swim Mann’s Stone jigs in white, craw patterns and black and blue on a fast reel like the Quantum EXO with a 7-foot rod for long casts.

Fish hollow Mann’s Super Frogs on 60-pound GAMMA Torque braided line. over matted grass any time of day!

Other topwaters like Lucky Craft G-Splash will work during low light and low water. Also try Lucky Craft BDS 4 crankbaits over submerged grass at higher tides.

Drop shot, shaky heads and other finesse techniques including MIZMO tubes with insert heads will work around docks near shallow grass beds or other hard cover drops.

September 2013 | 41

FITNESS NICOLE FLANAGAN

Food & Fitness

O

besity in America is a big problem.

We as a society are getting fatter each year. According to the Centers 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. 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 adage “you are what you eat” can have a bad outcome if you consider what we are putting in 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 some place in the body where it can be used, doing something positive for your health. Protein molecules go to building and repairing tissue.

Healthy fats are used to lubricate cells SPIRITUAL RENAISSANCE FROM PG 35

Life Path: Wisdom

The Life Path of Wisdom is all about taking action. If you’re on this path you can

and keep 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.

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 and partially hydrogenated foods that are unfortunately 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 conclude that this will result in weight loss. For the most

find yourself second (and third) guessing your decisions and it can even hinder your ability to hire anyone in the first place. You tend to sit on the fence and observe the rules and gather information

$20 OFF A 60 OR 90 MINUTE SESSION

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY! GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE 42 | September 2013

part this is not incorrect.

However, what if someone told you that 80 percent 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 percent of weight management is diet, a mere 10 percent is exercise and the remaining 10 percent 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

rather than taking action and helping your team to take action. As a manager you may think you’re leading by consensus but you’re actually confusing your team every time you ask for their input on simple (or complex) projects that you are meant to be leading. Your fear of being wrong can keep you on the Student path and impact your effectiveness as a manager.

When you’re on the master path you’ll have developed the ability to take action even if you have not “gamed” every possible outcome. You’ll be comfortable laughing at yourself and you’ll accept that a good leader isn’t someone who is never wrong, but is someone who can accept when they’ve made a mistake.

Life Path: Peace

The Life Path of Peace is

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 wellbalanced then that’s how you will feel. If you rely on fast food and artificial energizers all you will get is a quick buzz before you come crashing down. Diet should be based on the best way to fuel a workout, not basing 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 emphasize enough how much better you feel when what you consume is actually used by the body and not stored in fat cells. Eating a healthy diet is the first step to maintaining a healthy weight.

Nicole Flanagan is a personal trainer at Old Town Sport & Health in Alexandria, Va.

all about feeling safe and in balance. If you’re on the Life Path of Peace you might find yourself feeling like you have to go-go-go just to survive the workplace. As a manager, you might be perceived as a bit of an air-head or a person who creates work for the sake of having something to do. Your team may pick up on your underlying sense of panic and this can create a bit of a chaotic work environment. As you move into your Master Path you find ways to incorporate stillness and peace into your workday and you translate this sense of calm to your team. As a leader you encourage your team to find ways to let off steam that help them balance and you create processes that encourage ease in the workplace.

Knowing your path and that of your team members can

help you create harmony and ease in your workplace! The key is to know your path and to own it.

Peggie Arvidson is the Money Mindset Coach for Healers.

She helps healers charge what they’re worth and get it by helping them break the pattern of self-doubt so that they can attract their perfect clients.

One of the hardest things for those in healing professions is to recognize the monetary value of the services they provide, so they can keep their businesses thriving and stop struggling to pay their bills.

Peggie walks them through the five steps they’ll be able to apply, using their genuine strengths. to bring them a steady flow of perfect clients for their practice. You can learn more at GrowYourMoneyMojo.com

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FROM THE TRAINER RYAN UNVERZAGT

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eptember is one of my favorite months because college and pro football are in full swing. Athletes have been grinding it out for the past month and a half in training camps and the weight room. Now is their opportunity to showcase their talents to the world. I can only hope that you can find that same type of motivation to keep working hard on your health. Think of how exercise makes you feel: you have more energy, sleep soundly, stress less, and think more clearly, but more importantly, have more confidence and happiness in your life. If these benefits don’t get you going, I’m not sure what will!

This month’s exercise is called the Bosu Balance Single Leg Abduction. A great challenge for balance and concentration. You want to get comfortable standing on top with both feet before attempting just one. This exercise can be included in your warm-up and performed at the beginning of your routine.

To start, step on top of the Bosu with a single foot directly in the center of the rings. I think of it as a bulls-eye. Line the opposite foot next to the planted one (Figure 1). Keep only one foot in contact with the Bosu before moving the leg out to the side (abduction) and away from the center (Figure 2). This movement should be slow and under control. Pause for a few seconds once your leg is abducted before bringing it back to the start position.

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If your balance gets thrown off (and it will), simply touch the non-planted foot back on the Bosu to regain balance. It’s also ok if you just step off completely and start over. I suggest using a mirror for feedback, but the goal is to maintain balance without looking down at your feet. You want to establish that connection between your brain and foot. The main benefit of balance training is to improve your proprioception which is the ability to sense the position, location, orientation, and movement of your body parts in space.

If you’re a beginner on the Bosu, I suggest placing it next to something solid that you can grab on to such as railing, wall, or an exercise machine. A training partner can also come in handy when balance is lost. Try at least two sets of ten repetitions with each leg. You might find that you have better balance on your dominant side. In this case, add an extra set to the more challenging side for practice. This exercise not only improves body awareness, but will help strengthen your hips, ankles, and feet. The next time you’re at the gym, grab a Bosu Balance Trainer and give this one a whirl!

Unverzagt holds a BS in Wellness Management from Black Hills State University and has been a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) since 2003. He has been an active member of the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) since 2002.

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THE LAST WORD FROM PG 11

he tries to unravel the threads linking Oleg and his so-called victim, Gusto. Having found evidence of a new drug on the scene named violin, he treads the murky byways of Oslo to find the Russian drug kingpin who hides behind a network of underlings, and employs everyone from teenagers to the police in selling a heavenly and synthetic narcotic. This novel is far too long, and its plot is so far-fetched that it can be hard to suspend disbelief. Also, Harry’s philosophical insights are somewhat blurry here. Yet it is another compelling portrait of the darkly beautiful underbelly of Oslo.

Nesbø’s Harry Hole is heir to a specific tradition of crime solvers in fiction. As a lanky loose cannon familiar with the dark side of law enforcement, its shortcuts, and its inconsistent enforcement, he embodies the hard-boiled detective in film noir. Yet Nesbø’s humor and interest in pop culture, music, and film punctuate these books and lighten their atmosphere.

His philosophizing makes him interesting and his alcoholism endears him to a large audience aware of its own human shortcomings. Nesbo writes one of the most compelling depictions of drug and alcohol addiction I have read in a very long time, and despite pursuing far-fetched adventure, his detective struggles to manage his life the way that his readers do.

September 2013 | 43

GO FISH FROM PG 41

soft plastics and jigs to flooded shoreline trees.

On the first tournament day, after running 85 miles in rough water, he went into panic mode as the water had receded, leaving his “hot” spots high and dry. He rocketed his Ranger to a new location, targeting inside weed lines with rocks on shoreline points. Lefebre was close to discovering his new “secret weapon”.

On day two, Lefebre employed spinnerbaits and chatterbaits along the rocky shoreline and lost a big fish. Seeking an alternative, he cast his Arashi crankbait to the same spot, reeling in a much-needed 4 pounder. In fact, 3 of the 4 pounders he landed in this event came on the Arashi! Not losing a single fish or even getting snagged on the final day 3, he landed 30 fish culling to his 5 fish limit, finishing 2nd.

After fishing the Arashi under tournament pressure, Lefebre reflects on this amazingly overdue self-tuning line tie system. Noting the versatility, Lefebre says this bait can be retrieved very fast, without rolling over, or even crawled over heavy cover. “It’s weird that no one has done this before; it’s such a good idea!” Lefebre smashed and crashed his Arashi off rocks to trigger strikes. The circuit board lip held up well allowing for even more

strike-triggering deflection. A subtler feature alteration, rotating the belly and tail hook hangers 90 degrees, allows Arashi crankbaits to accommodate larger hooks by keeping hooks closer to the lure body also making them nearly snag free.

Lefebre expects Arashi, square billed, flat sided and deeper divers to win tournaments across the country! Slightly heavier, Arashi lures cast a mile and have high buoyancy to deflect and trigger bass bites. Unveiled at the July ICAST fishing industry show in Las Vegas, Arashi was an instant hit! Retailers secured their orders. Anglers might see them in late summer or early fall! At $8.95 this high-end lure is less than others in the category.

Lefebre says, “Once the word is out, there might be a run on these unique lures making the availability slim!” Arashi’s self-centered innovation is poised to take the crankbait world by Storm.

Capt. Steve Chaconas, Potomac bass fishing guide, BoatUS “Ask the Expert” (http:// my.boatus.com/askexperts/bassfishing/); Potomac River reports: nationalbass.com.

Book trips/purchase gift certificates: info@ NationalBass.com.

THANK YOU for a great ride.

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ScOTT

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FIRST BLUSH GENEVIEVE LEFRANC

L

ast season the beauty buzz was all about BB creams.

These “Beauty” or “Blemish” Balms were all the rage in the beauty world, that is until CC creams came along and demanded attention like the cooler, prettier older sister.

The two are marketed for separate issues, so although the differences between them are rather subtle, they are important to note: CC, or “color correcting” creams are meant to address conditions like redness or sallowness using light-diffusing particles, whereas BB creams are like a lighter foundation with a few skin care benefits thrown in for good measure.

CC creams are also more lightweight, so you can gently adjust any redness, splotchiness, or discoloration in an uneven complexion. They have more of a whipped, light, fluffy feel and finish, like the newest generation BB creams.

For those who want advanced, easier to blend coverage for uneven skin tones, these non-oily, multitasking, tinted moisturizers promise nourished, naturally (ha!) gorgeous complexions sans splotches.

Get on top of this new wave of beauty products, because yes, DD creams have hit the market too! Shop around and sample a few of the products on my list to see which CC cream works best for you. The coverage and benefits vary from brand to brand.

Read on to wise up and find the right product worth trying that will have you on trend.

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C-ing Is Believing Lorac CC Color Correcting Cream

This whopping six-in-one tinted makeup neutralizes, primes, moisturizes, brightens, and soothes skin, and the added vitamins A and E, along with green and white tea, help keep your complexion looking youthful and healthy. Its formula is specially tinted to color-correct redness, discoloration, and other imperfections using red seaweed, which contains vitamin C and works to naturally prime skin while diminishing fine lines.

Peter Thomas Roth CC Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Complexion Corrector

This product is perfect for ladies who want an easy, no fuss all-inone CC cream. This multifunctional formula contains anti-aging properties, sunscreen, complexion corrector, moisturizer, and tint. For a bit of exotic flair, this complexion corrector is formulated with camu camu, an Amazonian super fruit that has 30 times the vitamin C of an orange. Apparently vitamin C works wonders for your face; it evens skin

tone and supports natural collagen for firmer, brighter, younger looking skin over time. Broad spectrum SPF 30 protects from those end-of summer rays, and vitamin E helps fight free radical damage.

Smashbox Camera Ready CC Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Dark Spot Correcting

I’m a huge fan of Smashbox for their primers, so I’m not surprised they’ve come up with an equally impressive CC cream. This product is unique in that it’s makeup with the added benefits of skincare—this gamechanger is proven to visibly lessen the appearance of dark spots, sun spots, and acne scars instantly and over time.

It’s also a very advanced, lightweight formula that primes and protects with SPF 30, all while controlling oil production! Plus, it’s available in five shades, unlike many of its competitors.

Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream Hydrating Colour Corrector Broad Spectrum SPF 30

wonderfully natural glow it gives your face. It’s oil free but actually works to hydrate and protect the skin, all while smoothing your complexion and creating an otherworldy radiance. This baby will take care of any problem you have, whether it be dullness, sallowness, or redness.

Wear it alone or under foundation and enjoy how moisturized and soft it leaves your skin feeling—perfect for all skin types.

Sephora Collection Skin Perfect CC Cream SPF 20

Try this if you’re a big multitasker.

Sephora’s formula promises color correction, skincare benefits, and complete coverage in one easy step.

The Hydra24 Complex instantly hydrates skin and minimizes the appearance of pores, while licorice extract evens skin tone and antiaging sea kale extract smoothes the appearance of fine lines. Perfect for wearing alone or under foundation, this versatile formula is recommended for all skin types, protecting with sunscreen and leaving the skin soft, fresh, and flawless. Conpared to many of its competitors, the Sephora line won’t empty your wallet, either.

Genevieve LeFranc holds a BA in writing, rhetoric and communication from James Madison University. She actively researches and writes about the beauty and fashion industries.

I love Clinique’s CC cream for the

July 2013 | 45

Calling All Sailing Fans!

Support the �ight against Blood Cancer The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s 2013 Leukemia Cup Regatta Washington Sailing Marina Saturday, September 7, 2013 Races: 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

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46 | September 2013

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SINGLE SPACE LORI WELCH

XXL

recently went on a road trip sans yours truly. Being the introvert that I am, I was grateful for some me/alone time so as soon as I found out he was leaving for four days, I immediately went online to procure two items from my Amazon wish list. Books = Bliss. For XXL, bliss is many things—fishing, skiing, playing the drums, building the perfect tomato sandwich, etc. His list of hobbies and pursuits is extensive, and he’s constantly adding to it. “I think I’m going to get my license to fly helicopters.”

“Really? When are you fitting that in?” He’s a man with many passions, and on some level, I’m jealous of him for that. It’s good to have passions and hobbies. Over the years, I’ve entertained various extracurricular activities— golfing (bought the clubs; haven’t touched them since 1998), biking, running, scrapbooking, knitting (for about 10 minutes). Some of these pastimes have been more successful than ours (and less expensive). Some actually lasted longer than ten minutes.

I still partake in some of the above list, but my most recent pull has been towards yoga. I took my first yoga class back in 2001 and I’ve dabbled and practiced intermittently ever since. I’m a fan of the yogic philosophy, and I’ve read many books on the subject, but my mat time has been hit or miss. When I practice routinely, my life and my outlook on life improves exponentially. When I moved in with XXL, I created my own yoga space on the back deck and I typically start my day with a quiet meditation and a few postures. It does a body good. I’ve noticed slight improvements in my strength and it has motivated me to delve deeper into it so I guess Old Town Crier

Yogurt Even Makes You Happy you could say yoga­—or as XXL, refers to it ‘yogurt’—has become my latest passion. It calms and centers me. Yogurt is good for you.

XXL and I have been dealing with some issues lately that have left us both a little depleted and stressed, but more so for XXL which worries me. He typically carries the weight of the world on his shoulders, but lately it seems as though he’s doubled his load. I’m constantly dropping hints at things that might help ease his stress level and/or improve his health and wellness.

Occasionally, I succeed at slipping him a green breakfast smoothie or getting him to pass on a starch. I’ve been less successful, however, at getting him to try meditation or any of my other ’woo woo’ things. I didn’t dare think of

suggesting that a downward dog or two might prove beneficial. Subtle suggestions win the race so I tread lightly. The more I push, the more XXL resists. I recently suggested over coffee that each of us make one slight change in our daily routines to invite some positive change into our lives. I read somewhere that whenever you want positive change to take place, it’s good to start with making subtle changes like changing your route to work or what you eat for breakfast.

“So I should have sausage instead of bacon?” Errr. I guess. Whatever your change, it stirs up the universe. XXL usually rolls his eyes when I go down these paths, but he didn’t so I kept going. “Maybe we could also do something totally out of our comfort zones at least once a week— challenge ourselves.” Imagine my surprise when he agreed— probably because he can’t resist a challenge and loves sausage.

Running with my ’win,’ I started noodling around some ideas about what I would do to hold up my end of the bargain: maybe volunteer at a homeless shelter or take an improv class. Before I could even get three things on my list, I got a call from XXL. “Guess what I just did, honey,” to which I responded, “went to Roy Rogers?” “Nope.

I just took a yogurt class.”

Pflunkssshhht. Boom. Ouch.

(Me hitting floor). “Sorry— you’re breaking up…what did you just say?” “I took a yogurt class—chair yoga—ever heard of it?” I quickly glanced out the window of my office to see if any swines happened to be flying by. If you ever met XXL, you would immediately understand that he is not a yogurt kinda guy.

“Seriously?—YOU took a yoga class?” “Yep—we did postures sitting in chairs. And the teacher had one of those brass bowls that he stirred and

it made noise. And—he had one of those mini brass things that he hit with a drum stick that had a little pillow top on the end of it.” Interesting. “I liked it. I may look it up on the innerweb (XXL talk for internet) when I get home and do it some more. I’m not going to be able to remember all the postures so I’ll look it up. We used the chair as a prop.” Nope—not a single pig in the sky.

It made me laugh and smile to imagine XXL in yogurt class. He truly stepped out of his comfort zone, and not only did it not kill him, he actually liked it. He was open to a new experience, and I’m

not sure how I’ll even top that this week in our ’step out of your comfort zone’ challenge.

I guess I’ll have to jump out of an airplane or swim with sharks. I was hoping that XXL would put more yogurt in his diet, but it occurred to me that he doesn’t necessarily need yogurt; he just needs whatever makes him happy—fishing on the Chesapeake Bay, carving turns down a wintry slope or playing his beloved drums.

All of those things are his yogurt. He doesn’t need mine.

If you would like to comment or broach a subject for my column, contact me at mysinglespace@aol.com

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A S

M F

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An Anniversary of Sorts

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Harbor who have supported his issue us with their advertising marks the 1st dollars over the course anniversary of of this last year. Without the National them we wouldn’t be able Harbor section to print the section. First of the OTC. While we have and foremost, thanks to Jon been having some space Ball and his crew at Public issues due to advertisers that

By Lani Gering House and Harrington’s want to spend money with Pub and Kitchen. They have us, we have had to cut the advertised every month section down a page over the last two months. I guess that old adage since the onset. Also, many thanks to Milt and Jon Peterson and Rocel “money talks…” is true! On a brighter Viniard (formerly of Peterson Cos.) side, we are looking to add pages to at National Harbor and Jennifer the publication and that is a good Cerasani and the Gaylord Resort for problem to have in the print media world in this day and age. their support over the last 12 months.

We would like to take this We are looking forward to welcoming opportunity to thank those at the them back this fall as we go into the

holiday season!

There is a very fun event taking place at the harbor in addition to the cool, typical activity. See it listed in bold in the calendar. You aren’t going to want to miss it!

Please take time during these last few weeks of summer to make the trek to the Harbor if you have yet to experience it or come back for more fun. You deserve a break!

NATIONAL HARBOR Calendar Pops On the Potomac Saturdays at 7 p.m.

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