B rookside DECEMBER 2021
Serving Brookside, Snow Hill, Jameson’s Farm, Warrenton Chase and surrounding neighborhoods—Also Olde Gold Cup, Waterloo Estates, Huntsman’s Ridge, Silver Cup, Broadview Manor, and more!
Neighbors
Bubble Up with
The Peelers
THIS ISSUE:
- A Revolutionary Christmas – p.12 - Helping an Elderly Man Visit His Wife During Christmas – p. 22 - See Our Calendar for Upcoming Holiday Events!!! – p.26 Cover photo by The Little Photo Shop
During the Holidays
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DECEMBER 2021
PUB LICATI O N T EA M Publishers: Michael and Debbie Wykowski Content Coordinator: Aimée O’Grady Designer: Terri Shelow Contributing Photographer: Melinda Ratcliff, The Little Photo Shop
Welcome to the December Issue of
Brookside Neighbors!
Debbie and Michael Wykowski—Publishers
Aimée O’Grady Content Coordinator
ADV ER T I S I N G Contact: Michael and Debbie Wykowski Email: mwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com Phone: 703-203-9130 FE ED B ACK/ID EAS /S U BM I SS I O N S : Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www. bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: aogrady@bestversionmedia.com. HOA SUB MISSIO N I N FO RM AT I O N Are you on the association board for your subdivision? Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to the residents. We create customized homeowners association sections at no cost to the HOA or the residents. Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2021 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
I recently gave my 10-year-old daughter some advice. She hosted a sleepover for her birthday and five of her little friends came over. In hindsight, six 10-year-olds may have been too many, but I never expected them all to be available that night! As the night wore on and the girls became increasingly tired, little spats burst out. One girl would say something mean to another, and so on. I had to intervene a few times to referee the situation. The next morning, one girl called for her family to pick her up early and later I learned that she felt the girls were being mean to her. But my daughter and her friends didn’t agree; they felt she was being mean to them. The night after the party, I reminded my daughter that this little girl was a good friend to her and to not let one bad evening ruin their friendship. I asked her to remember that we don’t know what may have happened during the day before the party to make her unhappy. She shouldn’t stop being her friend because of a situation they both saw differently. I realize this isn’t novel advice. It’s important to remember that everyone is dealing with something, and that we all come to situations with a different perspective. Sometimes we simply disagree. But at the end of the day, true friendships will endure. The holidays are here and there may be family and friend gatherings with taboo topics that are best left in the car. As you sit down at the dinner table, remember we are all going through something. Some people may elect to keep their struggles to themselves, but these struggles may manifest themselves in personality traits you aren’t accustomed to seeing. Our feature family, the Peelers, know a thing or two about struggles. They have had more on their plate than my husband at Thanksgiving dinner. From raising children and helping their daughter with special needs reach her full potential to opening their home to a cousin in need, the Peelers embody the qualities you want to see in all your friends. You can read their story on page 6. Our feature nonprofit is the Foothills Area Mobility System (FAMS). This call center fields calls from members of our community who need a ride. Many are elderly people who are vulnerable to individuals with bad intentions. This story features a volunteer who went above and beyond to help an elderly man be with his wife during the holiday season. Read their story on page 22. This holiday season, we hope you can set your struggles aside for a moment to enjoy time with your family and friends!
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EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Michael and Debbie Wykowski at dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or 703-203-9130.
PLUMBING Vern’s Plumbing Vern's Plumbing is fully licensed, bonded, and insured with over 30 years of experience in the plumbing industry. Every team member brings years of experience to every job. We take pride in being the plumber of choice for many of our clients. We've been serving this part of Virginia since 1988. As a family-owned and -operated business, our customers are our top priority. That's why we put 100% into every call we take and every service we provide. We offer a full range of plumbing services to both residential and commercial customers. Vern’s Plumbing is a Class A contractor with masters in Plumbing and Gas Fitter. 540-306-4840 | vernsplumbing.com | admin@vernsplumbing.com HOME, PET, LAWN & GARDEN CFC Farm & Home Center | Kathy Crawford CFC Farm & Home Center serves both homeowners and agricultural producers across northern and central Virginia, with five locations across Fauquier, Culpeper and Rappahannock counties. CFC Farm & Home has everything you need for your lawn, garden, home and pet, as well as livestock and equine necessities. We are proud to offer farm & home essentials, hometown pricing and outstanding service, since 1932. 540-347-7100 | www.cfcfarmhome.com FAMILY LAW, CRIMINAL LAW AND ESTATE PLANNING Mark B. Williams and Associates, PLC Featured Attorney - Mark B. Williams Mark B. Williams has been practicing law in Virginia since 1990. He focuses on criminal law and personal injury. The firm also includes attorneys Alyssa D. Phillips, an experienced family law advocate, William D. Ashwell, who handles estate planning, business, and civil litigation cases, and Joseph R. Pricone, who practices criminal and traffic law. Mark B. Williams & Associates provides a high level of personal service and a total commitment to protecting the interests of the their clients. (540) 347-6595 | www.mbwalaw.com HOME CARE EverNest Home Care | Chris Gay Chris Gay is the owner of EverNest Home Care, a licensed home-care provider located in Warrenton and serving clients throughout the Northern Virginia area. From personal care services to companionship services and beyond, EverNest’s home care offerings are tailored to suit each of their client’s lifestyles and needs wherever they call “home.” Through their extremely selective recruitment process, they’ve taken the care necessary to curate the best team of nurturing, attentive professionals. 571-483-8806 www.evernestcare.com HEATING / AIR CONDITIONING Mullins Heating and Air | Scott Mullins Mullins Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC specializes in a wide range of heating and air conditioning services in the Sumerduck & Warrenton, VA area. Whether you need a multi-zone HVAC system installed in your new home or an outdated, inefficient mini-split AC system replaced, their HVAC contractor can make it happen. “We install ductwork and a wide variety of top-of-the-line HVAC systems to help keep customers comfortable at all times." 703-362-3883 | mullinshvac.com mullins4ac@gmail.com TAX PREPARATION Marshall Consulting Group, LLC | Douglas M. Marshall, III CPA As a leader in the accounting industry Doug is committed to providing close, personal attention to his clients. He takes pride in giving you the assurance that the personal assistance you receive comes from years of advanced training, technical experience and financial acumen. “We believe in the value of relationships. We view every client relationship like a partnership, and truly believe that our success is a result of your success!” 540-347-2161 | www.mcgllccpa.com
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SALON/HAIR Fashion Forward Salon Corey Curran Corey is the owner of Fashion Forward Salon in Gainesville, VA. She began her career in the beauty industry in 2000 and has used the last 21 years growing as a stylist and a leader. She started educating with Bumble and Bumble and fell in love with the education side of the industry. After 11 years in the industry, she decided to branch out on her own and in August 2011 Fashion Forward Salon was born. She travels to New York several times a year to keep all of her skills up to date. Her goal is to make sure to always grow as a stylist and owner. With help from her devoted staff Fashion Forward Salon strives to make every client have the best experience possible! 571-248-2924 corey@fashionforwardsalon.com DOG WALKING, PET SITTING AND PET CARE SERVICES My Pet’s Friend | Melissa and Richard Macias My Pet’s Friend is veteran-owned and provides fully licensed and bonded dog walking, pet sitting and pet care services in Fauquier County. Brookside residents Melissa and Richard took over MPF in 2018, having been its original clients in 2009. Their core mission: Providing pets with love and care in the comfort of their own home while providing owners with a stress-free way to handle their pet’s needs without compromising their own security and privacy needs. 540-905-4884 missy@my-pets-friend.com | www.my-pets-friend.com
DESIGN BUILD – KITCHEN AND BATH REMODELS AND NEW HOMES Golden Rule Builders, Inc. | Joel Barkman Joel is the President/Owner of Golden Rule Builders, Inc a design build firm in Catlett, VA specializing in kitchen/ bath remodels and custom homes. Joel has been named the Builder of the Year by the Northern Virginia Building Industry Association (NVBIA), and Business Person of the Year by the Fauquier County Chamber of Commerce.Joel and his wife Patty have five children and are active members of the Dayspring Mennonite Church. He also serves on the boards of Good Life Ministries in India, New Horizons Ministries in Colorado, Lord Fairfax Community College and Fauquier Hospital. 540-788-3539 www.GoldenRuleBuilders.com | Facebook: www.Facebook.com GoldenRuleBuilders PERFORMING ARTS Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts | Kalie Lasley Kalie Lasley is an American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Affiliate Teacher and the Executive Director of Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts in Vint Hill. Ms. Lasley has an extensive background in dance, including time as a professional dancer at the prestigious San Francisco Ballet. Lasley Centre opened in 2011, growing into a 9,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility where students from preballet to pre-professional train to be technically sound artists in a nurturing environment. 540-905-2782 | klasley@lasleycentre.com www.lasleycentre.com EYE CARE Dr. Shannon Moore and Associates Dr. Shannon Moore, Optometrist This practice has been providing expert eyecare to Warrenton and the surrounding communities since 1979. Dr. Shannon Moore joined the practice in 2005 and Dr. Lisa Butterfield in 2015. Having vast knowledge of ocular disease, surgical eyecare and optics, the doctors can diagnose, manage and treat a variety of ocular diseases as well as provide patients with the most accurate prescriptions for their glasses and/or contacts. They also co-manage with several leading ophthalmologists to ensure that any ocular condition they find can be managed and treated by the appropriate doctors. The practice has been voted "Best of Warrenton" and "Best of Fauquier" a total of seven times since 2007. 540-347-0555 | www.warrentoneyes.com
ORGANIC FOODS Stallard Road Farm John and Katherine Adams Owner Katherine Adams learned from her mother to use organic foods to help the health of her family. After she and her husband, John, bought their Rixeyville farm in 1999, Katherine began making herbal tea blends and spice mixtures and would gift them to friends and family; by 2007 she put a price tag on them, selling herbal syrups, lip balms, throat sprays and honey (made by her beekeeper husband). Katherine states Stallard Road’s goal : “We are committed to responsibly growing local & clean food to support you and your family's health.” 540937-4181 | www.stallardroad.com stallardroad@gmail.com FAMILY DENTISTRY Robert C. Flikeid, DDS and Associates Featured Dentist: Amanda Toulme, DDS. Dr. Amanda Toulme is a general dentist at the office of Robert C. Flikeid, DDS and Associates in Warrenton, VA. The dental practice was founded in 1875 by the grandfather of Dr. William H. Allison. As the original and longest standing dental practice of Warrenton, VA, they are dedicated to providing quality dental care for their multigenerational patients and their community. Dr. Toulme obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry and completed a General Practice Residency at the Baltimore Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospital, where she obtained advanced training in - A general Revolutionary Christmas – dentistry, oral surgery, endodontics, and prosthodontics. Additionally, p.12 Dr. Toulme is certified in Invisalign therapy. Dr. Toulme loves the personal aspect of dentistry and is dedicated to serving our community with quality, integrity, and compassion. 540-347-3396 www.warrentonfamilydentistry.com INSURANCE State Farm Insurance | Glenn Albert State Farm Insurance has been a fixture in Warrenton and the surrounding areas since the Agency opened in August of 1999. Glenn is an expert in risk management and he and his team excel in providing personalized friendly service to help customers manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. Glenn’s office is a full service Insurance and Financial Services Agency. Glenn and his wife Sandi (Bausman) are residents of Brookside, are active in the local community, and are happy to be a resource for the neighborhood. (540) 347-3339 | www.glennalbert.com | www.facebook.com/ glennalbertsf | glenn.albert.le0c@statefarm.com CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES Advantage Chiropractic & Massage Therapy Dr. Douglas B. Smith Jr. Dr. Douglas B. Smith Jr. earned his undergraduate degree from the State University of New York and his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Life University in Atlanta Georgia. While at Life University, Dr. Smith also received certification in Physical Therapy. Dr. Smith will be celebrating his 23rd year of practice in October of 2021. Dr. Smith is highly regarded in Fauquier County as being the “go to” doctor for injuries, headaches and wellness in general. The community shows their confidence in Dr. Doug by voting him “Best Chiropractor” every year since 2006. 540-349-8989 | www.advantagehealthchiropractic.com DERMATOLOGY Lawrence J. Finkel, M.D. Dermatology Dr. Larry Finkel - Board Certified Dermatologist For almost 20 years, Dr. Larry Finkel has served the community's dermatological needs. He is Warrenton's and Fauquier County's most experienced and longest practicing dermatologist. As a member of several dermatology-related associations, he has lectured and is published in professional journals. Dr. Finkel is also an avid community sponsor, supporting many groups including: the Fauquier Free Clinic , the Fauquier Hospital Foundation, the Falcon Booster Club at Fauquier High School, the Piedmont Symphony Orchestra, the American Children of SCORE, and Allegro CSA. He also performs with Fauquier Community Theater and sings tenor in Mint Condition—a local Barbershop Quartet. 540-347-2020 | finkelderm.com
FLOORING AND CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENT Early’s Carpet, Inc.| Sonja Betts, Lorraine Early, Solon Betts Early’s Carpet, Inc., your hometown store with so much under one roof, is currently celebrating 54 years in the flooring and window treatment business. Early’s is a family operated business – Lorraine, co-founder since 1966, daughter Sonja Betts is Store Manager, Decorator, Window Treatment Specialist, and son-in-law Solon Betts is a Ceramic Craftsman and heads up all installation crews. The store is known for its’ “In-Stock” floor coverings availability. Do not let the name fool you – they are EXPERTS in all floor coverings, hardwood, laminate, ceramic, vinyl, and carpeting. We are also pleased to be a Centurion Dealer for Hunter Douglas custom window treatments. Drive a little, save a lot! 540-937-5500 |www.earlyscarpet.com HEARING / AUDIOLOGY Hearing Assessment Center | Nikki Butler, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology Dr. Nicolette “Nikki” Butler received her doctorate at East Tennessee State University. She has done extensive research in the area of auditory Working Memory (how the brain stores input from the ears). She is certified by the American Board of Audiology, a distinction held by only 15% of audiologists. She is also one of the select few doctors who holds a certificate in Tinnitus Management. People who suffer from tinnitus actively seek out Dr. Nikki’s care, some coming from several hours away. Dr. Nikki is dedicated to helping those who suffer from hearing loss and tinnitus, educating every single patient and treating those individuals with the highest level of care. When she is not serving her community, Dr. Nikki enjoys cooking, drinking copious amounts of coffee and exploring Virginia with her husband and two dogs. 540-495-8601 | www.hearingassessment.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/HearingAssessmentCenter
CABINET PAINTING Heather’s Painted Treasures | Heather Workman Heather Workman is the owner and operator at Heather’s Painted Treasures. Her team specializes in taking tired and dated cabinetry and give them “new life.” They have a unique style of prep, cleaning, priming and painting your cabinet doors and drawer fronts in their temperature controlled, ventilated and dust free paint booth. This results in amazing cabinets that are as close to “factory new” without the factory! 703-655-7852 www.heatherspaintedtreasures.com REAL ESTATE Larson Fine Properties | Laura Larson Laura has been practicing real estate full-time for over 12 years. She started her career as a graduate from the U of MD with an accounting degree but later realized her passion for working with people and real estate. She has grown her business considerably and now is the Broker and Owner of Larson Fine Properties, where she has an amazing team to ensure her clients are extremely well cared for and become happy life-long members of the LFP family. She also has a passion for giving back to the community in many ways: financial, personal, and social. Currently, she is on a mission to donate $25,000 for INOVA Children’s Hospital. She does this by making a donation on every transaction or referral on behalf of her clients. Laura has also been collaborating with Habitat in Fauquier and is looking forward to reactivating this work. She also offers the exclusive ‘Your Home Sold Guaranteed Program!’ Call for details. 703-589-7762 www.larsonfineproperties.com | larsonfineproperties@gmail.com
Happy Holidays! Brookside Neighbors
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Resident Feature
The Peelers
Bubble Up with
During the Holidays
We would like to thank The Brown Real Estate Team for sponsoring this month's feature story. By Aimée O’Grady | Photography by The Little Photo Shop
IF YOU ARE LUCKY ENOUGH to be “bubbled up” with the Peelers, you will find yourself in wonderful company. Omari and Jen exude warmth, kindness, flexibility, resilience, and perhaps most importantly, humor.
her strength, “I knew that if Omari and I had children, they would hopefully get my shooting ability and maybe inherit his vertical skills,” she laughed.
The couple has been married for 8 years and have two daughters, Kingston and Reign. The girls are ages 8 and 5 respectively and are active in basketball and soccer. The sports schedule keeps their parents, former college athletes themselves, entertained each weekend. They always have the largest cheering section since the grandparents and other family members do their best not to miss any games.
The girls are sisters to older sister, Neja. Neja was born with a very rare genetic disorder. When diagnosed, she was only one of twenty plus people diagnosed with the condition in the world. As a result of her diagnosis, she grew at a very slow rate and at age 15, she was the size of an average five-year-old. But her size never slowed Neja down! “She never let anything hold her back. She was a bright light,” said Omari. Sadly, on October 5, 2019, Neja passed away.
Omari received a scholarship to Florida A&M University for track, where he ran sprints and was a skilled jumper. Jen received a scholarship to Lenoir Rhyne University for basketball and jokes that, unlike Omari, jumping wasn’t
As the family moved forward, learning how to embrace Neja’s memory while mourning her physical absence, COVID-19 descended upon the world and upended their lives. “Neja spent three months in the hospital prior to
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passing away,” said Omari. “When COVID came, we didn’t want to be, or have any of our friends or loved ones in the hospitals and didn’t take any chances,” he added. The family decided to shelter at home and “bubble up,” as Jen says, with one other family. “We spent a full year visiting with only one other family for the most part,” said Jen. The two families would take turns hosting themed dinners, sometimes sushi, sometimes Italian, always delicious. The semblance of normalcy helped the grieving family navigate. Misfortune struck again this past summer when Omari’s aunt passed away from cancer. At the end of August, Jen and Omari accepted custody of Tate, Omari’s 15-year-old cousin, who was in the custody of his aunt. Tate’s life had been filled with turbulence until he “bubbled up” with Jen and Omari. “My mother, my aunt’s sister, was going to take custody of him, but Jen and I knew we had a better family structure for him. He knew our girls and would be able to make this his home,” said Omari. Tate was born in Los Angeles, but at age five his grandmother assumed custody, and the two lived in the Chesapeake area of Virginia where he was raised. When Tate's grandmother died, Jen and Omari opened their home and, more importantly, their hearts to Tate,
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who is now thriving and shines brightly in the eyes of his sisters who adore him. Tate also happened to be Neja’s favorite cousin. He plays football and adds events to the weekly sports schedule. Today, while the family adjusts to the loss of their daughter and sister, Jen and Omari find themselves stepping up to raise a 15-year-old boy who never had a traditional family unit until joining the Peeler family. And of course, they also manage to work. Omari is an Account Executive for a pharmaceutical company producing a new treatment option for patients with advanced Parkinson’s disease. Jen is a small business owner and operates the spray-tanning business, Glam Tans, and enjoys helping her clients feel good about themselves. This holiday season, the family is looking forward to enjoying their annual holiday traditions with family and friends. “With friends, we host a cookie exchange that includes a lot of cookies, wine, and karaoke,” said Jen. “With family, we celebrate Christmas Eve,” she continued. Jen and her brother alternate hosting the evening. “This leaves Christmas Eve and Christmas Day open for families to spend how they wish,” she added.
For the Peelers, the holiday season is about creating magic for their children. “You just don’t know what each day will bring,” said Omari, “so it’s important to make each one special.” The warmth, kindness, flexibility, resilience, and humor the couple possess makes their home the place everyone wants to bubble up. They have laughed, cried, and cared their way through 10 years, and look forward to many more years of bubbling up with family and friends.
Get a Glam Tan this holiday season! Visit them at www.facebook.com/glamtansva.
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DECEMBER 2021
Brookside Neighbors
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- Kristin Butke Photos By Kristin Butke Irish Dance School
community
Kristin Butke Irish Dance School
Students Bring Home National Awards 4300 dancers competed for top place in the United States Irish Dance Championships , which included the United States and Mexico, this past summer. Due to COVID, Canadians and overseas dancers were unable to participate. The Kristin Butke Irish Dance School is pleased to announce its student winners from the summer 2021 championships: Abby Swearingen 1st u9 girls and 1st in preliminary (pictured) Garet Zagroski 1st u11 boys (pictured) Kate Bellamy 17th u17 girls Madeleine MacDougall 21st u9 girls and 13th in preliminary Susie Daniels 36th u19 ladies Samantha Ankers 36th u13 girls and 3rd in preliminary Thérèse MacDougall 39th u14 girls and 3rd in preliminary This is Garet's third national title!
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DECEMBER 2021
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real estate update
REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY Closed Date
DOM
Address
Beds
Full Baths Half Baths
List Price
SoldPrice
BROOKSIDE 10/7/2021 3 6890 Emma Ct 4 4 1 $935,000 10/13/2021 49 7143 Lake Dr 4 4 1 $699,000 10/15/2021 5 7187 Evan Ct 5 4 1 $750,000 10/29/2021 16 4474 Corral Rd 5 5 1 $1,200,000
$981,100 $687,500 $760,000 $1,145,000
SNOW HILL 10/14/2021 10 5839 Windsor Retreat 5 10/27/2021 23 5716 Old Forest Ln 4
$790,000 $1,150,000
$782,500 $1,150,000
VINT HILL 10/15/2021 8 6851 Averbach Ct 4 3 0 $624,990
$612,200
4 4
1 1
Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent's ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
As Christmas is Upon Us, I find myself reflecting on the past year and on those I have been blessed to serve. I value my relationships with my clients and look forward to working with you and your referrals in the year to come.
I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!
APRIL GEYER 571.775.0092
April Geyer @April.geyer_realtor |
@aprilgeyerc21nm | april.geyer@c21nm.com
571.775.0092 8074 Crescent Park Drive Gainesville, VA 20155
67 W Lee Hwy Warrenton, VA 20186
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Community
A Revolutionary Christmas By Travis Shaw, Director of Education, Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area | Photo by Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area
ON JULY 11TH, 1774, a young Englishman stepped off onto the docks of the crowded Alexandria waterfront. At 24 years old, Nicholas Cresswell had left his native Derbyshire in search of a new life in the American colonies. Finally, after weeks at sea and an unexpected detour to Maryland, he reached his destination. Over the next three years, Cresswell maintained a detailed journal highlighting his adventures in America. He would travel far out to the Ohio Valley frontier and to the West Indies, become embroiled in the politics of the American Revolution, meet several founding fathers, and eventually escape to the British army before returning home. His journal is a priceless record of events in the colonies, particularly in northern Virginia, during the Revolutionary period. In addition to the larger political events of the day, Cresswell was also a meticulous recorder of the day-to-day life of Virginians in the 1770s. This included not only
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descriptions of how they lived, what they wore, and what they ate and drank, but also how they celebrated holidays in the colonial era. In November, 1774, Nicholas reached the town of Leesburg, where he would celebrate the first of many holidays in the colonies. Thanksgiving as we know it today did not exist at the time, and would only gain widespread popularity after the American Civil War. Instead, Cresswell found himself swept up in a celebration of another sort. November 30th is St. Andrew’s Day, a celebration of the patron saint of Scotland. Much like modern St. Patrick’s Day celebrations among the Irish, St. Andrew’s Day was a day that Scots set aside for music, feasting, and libations. Nicholas was invited to celebrate by the Scottish merchants of Leesburg, and he recorded the event in his journal: “…invited to spend the evening with Captn. William Douglas and a number of other Scotch guests. Have been genteelly treated and am now going to bed drunk.” The following day his journal remarks that the young Englishman was “sick with my last night’s debauch.” Just a few weeks later, Cresswell spent his first Christmas season in the colonies. By his account he found it very underwhelming:
“December 25, 1774. Christmas Day. But little regarded here.”
233 Broadview Avenue • Warrenton, VA 20186-2418 toll free: 800-647-0557 • 540-347-3431 fax: 540-341-4611 • director@moserfuneralhome.com
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DECEMBER 2021
For many living in colonial America, the 25th was not the culmination of the Christmas season, as it is for us today. Instead, it was merely the beginning of the twelve days of Christmas, and the biggest
celebrations would come in January on Twelfth Night. The days between the first and twelfth night of Christmas passed uneventfully for Nicholas. He spent time hunting and remarked that the pastor of the local church was drunk on New Year's Day. It was not until January 6th that he got to enjoy a true Virginia-style holiday ball in Alexandria. His journal recalls how the host provided a great cake, and slices were distributed among the guests. At the same time, a hat was passed and slips of paper were pulled to determine the hosts of next year’s party. The cake was followed by music and dancing through the night. Nicholas was not very impressed with the dancers or the music, calling it “more like a Bacchanalian dance than one in a polite assembly.” He also recalled that there was a cold dinner, along with “punch, wines, coffee and chocolate.” He eventually left the party at 2:00 AM, but after he left, several drunken revelers began to fight before the party ended. The following Christmas was a much more somber affair. War between Britain and her colonies broke out in the spring of 1775, and from that point on Cresswell was viewed by many as a potential spy or British agent. He would spend much of the next two years essentially under house arrest in Leesburg, where his every move was watched. December 25th, 1775, found him at the home of Mr. West in Loudoun County. This is likely a reference to Charles West’s Ordinary (Inn), near modern Aldie, Virginia. West was a friend of George Washington’s, but despite this, he treated Cresswell with “the greatest civility.” After leaving West’s he returned to Leesburg to enjoy another Christmastime tradition that endures today – enjoying a sleigh
ride. On Twelfth Night Cresswell joined several friends in Leesburg, where they “got most feloniously drunk.” Nicholas Cresswell spent one more Christmas in the colonies before his return to Britain. On December 25th, 1776, he simply remarked that “Christmas Day, but very little observed in this country, except it is amongst the Dutch.” He was referring to the many German immigrants who settled in the Virginia Piedmont, who brought many of the modern American Christmas traditions with them, particularly the Christmas tree. He would not have any chance to celebrate that season, as the American victories at Trenton and Princeton crushed his spirit and inspired him to finally make his escape from Virginia. Christmas in 18th century Virginia differs in many ways from our modern holiday season. Twelfth night, once the high point of the seasonal celebrations, is now largely forgotten by most. December 25th, a day “little regarded” by colonial Virginians, is now the primary holiday and marks the end of what feels like months of preparation and celebration. These days, most Christmas celebrations involve fewer fist fights and getting “feloniously drunk” – or at least we hope they do. Despite these differences, however, some things remain constant. Christmas in both the 18th and 21st centuries is a time for food, drink, music, and celebration. Just be careful you don’t end up sick with your “debauch.”
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DECEMBER 2021
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Health Notes
Extraordinary Registered Nurse Recognized at Fauquier Health Fauquier
Health celebrated Stephanie Usrey, RN, as the DAISY Award winner for the third quarter. NURSES AT FAUQUIER HEALTH continue to be honored with The DAISY Team Award For Extraordinary Nurses. The DAISY award is part of the DAISY Foundation's program to recognize the superhuman efforts nurses perform every day. The third DAISY Team award recipient for 2021 is Registered Nurse Stephanie Usrey. A strong nomination that came in for Stephanie consisted of the special care and attention she provided to an admitted patient over the age of 90. The patient’s daughter, who submitted the nomination, commented, “Stephanie took the time to speak with her and learn things about her, and realized they had friends in common. She saw all of my mom, and not just what her condition made her.” The patient’s daughter went on to
Stephanie Usrey, RN, DAISY Award winner for Quarter 3 at Fauquier Health had the opportunity to sign the banner that will hang permanently in the hospital hallway.
Christine Hart Kress, CNO, congratulates Stephanie Usrey, RN, with DAISY Award Certificate.
comment, “… she was a bright light in what was a stressful few days!” The not-for-profit DAISY Foundation is based in Glen Ellen, CA, and was established by family members in memory of J. Patrick Barnes. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a
Stephanie Usrey, RN, proudly held up her banner. Accompanying her, from left to right, was, Steve Wojcik (Board Chair), Mike Poore (Interim CEO), Jessica Randall (Director of Acute Care Services), Sean Thomson (CFO), Krista Frederick (RN), Hannah Pederson (Nurse Resident), and Christine Hart Kress (CNO).
profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses has been adopted by healthcare facilities around the world to celebrate nurses for their extraordinary care and compassion. The DAISY Team Award is for nurse-led teams of two or more who come together to solve a specific situation by going above and beyond. Nursing teams may be nominated by patients, families, and Continued on page 16
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Continued from page 15
colleagues, and they are chosen by a committee of nurses at Fauquier Health to receive The DAISY Team Award. The DAISY Team Award is presented by Nursing Leadership at a surprise presentation. The DAISY Award winner receives a certificate commending them for being an "Extraordinary Nurse." The certificate reads: "In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are and the incredibly
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meaningful difference your teamwork makes in the lives of so many people." The DAISY Award winner also receives a specially engraved plaque engraved with the name of the Team. To honor these special nurses at Fauquier Health, a banner has been hung in the hallway for all to see. Each DAISY Nurse will have the opportunity to sign the banner
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recognizing them for their commitment and dedication. For a complete listing of healthcare organizations currently running the program, please go to http:// DAISYfoundation.org. The DAISY Award and DAISY Team Award are initiatives of The DAISY Foundation in service to the nursing profession. Additionally, DAISY offers J. Patrick Barnes
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recipe
Holiday Side Dishes By Anita Parris Soule
This month, I share my family's traditional Holiday side dishes old and new. UNCLE RICK'S MASHED POTATOES AKA THE BEST MASHED POTATOES These potatoes are heavenly, and yes, they really are the best.
I've been eating them my whole life and I look forward to them every year. I was actually surprised that my uncle shared the recipe with me because they are that good. Like, secret recipe good. Unbelievably creamy and more flavorful and savory than any mashed potato I've ever tasted. One of his not-secretDESCRIPTION My Uncle's not-so-secret-anymore recipe and the potatoes I crave all year long. Definitely one of my favorite things on the family holiday table. INGREDIENTS
Æ 10 Med Potatoes (washed, peeled, cubed) Æ 1 Whole head of garlic Æ 1 Cup French Onion Dip Æ 1 Cup Half & Half Æ ½ Stick Softened Butter Æ Sage Æ Rosemary Æ Thyme Æ 2 Tablespoons Salt INSTRUCTIONS Slice the top from the whole garlic with a sharp serrated knife.
anymore flavor weapons is a whole head of roasted garlic. Another: a bundle of sage, rosemary, and thyme. And the most secret ingredient that I never, ever would have guessed: a cup of French Onion Dip. You will never make mashed potatoes any other way. It adds a tangy, salty savoriness that you just can't get enough of. Make these and you'll see why I crave them all year long. I jazzed these up for photos with some sage browned butter because I just can't stop making it and using it in everything, lately. I'm thinking up a stuffing recipe I can work some of it into as well.
DAD'S BRAISED GREEN BEANS
My dad made these often, not just during the holiday season. This is a very Frenchified Southern dish. We can't help adding wine to braising liquids, and this dish is no exception. This is our answer to the infamous green bean casserole, something I did not grow up eating and I really don't like at all despite my love of cream of mushroom soup. Normally I'm a fan of veggies that still have some life in them, but these beans are cooked until they are very soft, tender, and rather drab colored. What they lack in color, they make up for in flavor. And that braising liquid (or pot liquor if we're being really southern) is just so darn delicious. Give me a bowl of white fluffy rice with these beans and some of their juice on top (and maybe a few shakes of Crystal Hot Sauce) and I'm a happy girl (other than missing my dad immensely). More often than not, my dad would just use bacon, but I like the meatiness of the ham or smoked turkey. INGREDIENTS
Brush the exposed garlic with olive oil, wrap loosely in foil and bake in a 375 degree oven for 45 minutes.
Æ 1 large onion, sliced
In a large pot, just cover the cubed potatoes with water seasoned with 2 tablespoons of salt and a bouquet garni of sage, rosemary & thyme. Bring to a boil (about 15 mins). Reduce to a low simmer until the potatoes are fork tender(about 5-10 minutes).
Æ 1.5 pounds green beans
Æ 6 garlic cloves, sliced Æ 3 smoked turkey legs Æ 4 ounces button mushrooms, sliced
In a large bowl, combine the butter and French Onion Dip. Squeeze the roasted garlic into the large bowl and mash the softened cloves into the mixture with a fork. Stir to combine.
Æ 4 cups chicken broth
Drain the potatoes and add to the bowl. Mash the potatoes with a hand mixer, adding enough Half and Half to achieve the desired consistency. Taste. Season as required. Serve.
INSTRUCTIONS
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DECEMBER 2021
Æ 2 cups white wine Æ 2 bay leaves Add all ingredients to a large pot over high heat Bring to boil and reduce to rapid simmer. You want evaporation, so don't turn it down too low.
Partially cover and cook until almost all liquid has evaporated. This should take a couple hours, but just keep an eye on it, stirring every now and then. Remove turkey legs, shred meat from bones. Discard skin, bones, and cartilage. Return meat to pot and stir to combine.
INGREDIENTS Æ One package store-bought yeast roll dough balls (I use Bridgford Parkerhouse Style) Æ 1 stick salted butter
NOTES You can use turkey wings or legs. I've never had trouble finding these in the meat department of my local stores. If you want to use ham or ham hocks, just add it in the same manner as the turkey. I'd use 3-4 hocks, or a small ham cut into a few large chunks.
THE ROLLS
These rolls crack me up. You all know how much I love to bake from scratch, and I have a great yeast roll recipe, but with everything else going on in the kitchen during the holidays, it's nice to have a few cheats up your sleeve. These rolls live in my freezer at all times. I make them mainly on Easter and Thanksgiving, and I use them to make monkey bread for Christmas morning. What cracks me up is how much everyone, especially our kids, go crazy for them. "Are you making the rolls?" is a question I get whenever a major holiday is rolling up. Easter, Thanksgiving, and, of course, Christmas. I do jazz them up a bit by brushing over some garlic-honey butter both before and after baking. You know I have to put my little twist on everything and it makes me feel a little less guilty calling this a recipe when really all I do is thaw some dough! DESCRIPTION Made from store-bought frozen dough and dressed up with garlicky honey butter, these are always the first to disappear (especially with my kids around) and are such a welcome and much needed "cheat" on the big day.
Æ ¼ cup honey Æ 1 garlic clove, peeled and grated INSTRUCTIONS
Place garlic, butter, and honey in a small saucepan and melt over medium heat. Pour about ¼ of mixture in bottom of 9 x 13 baking pan. Place dough balls evenly into pan. Brush more butter mixture over each dough ball. Cover and place in a warm place to rise for several hours until dough has thawed and risen to double its size. Just follow the instructions on the package, but I find mine takes a little longer to rise. Once dough has risen and before placing in oven, brush (or pour) a little more honey butter mixture generously over dough balls, holding back just enough to brush over finished rolls. Bake as instructed. Brush tops with remaining honey butter as soon as they come out of the oven. If you have teenage boys, hide these until you're ready for dinner or they will disappear at an alarming rate!
Anita Parris Soule is a food-obsessed Warrenton native with a passion for delicious food and beautiful words. She is a blogger, food photographer, and recipe developer at https://wildthistlekitchen.com/. Check her out on Facebook @wildthistlekitchen.blog , Instagram @wild.thistle.kitchen, and Pinterest @wildthistlekitchen.
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expert contributor
The
Ever-Evolving Kitchen
By Cindy Lovell, Interior Designer/Selections Consultant, Golden Rule Builders
THE MODERN KITCHEN is the heart of the home. Whether it’s the preparation and cooking site for delicious meals or the favorite spot for sharing time together to relax and converse, today’s kitchen is comforting, welcoming, friendly and functional. Although the modern kitchen is practical, functional, attractive and inviting, it wasn’t always this way. Throughout most of history, the kitchen existed primarily as an area to prepare food and wasn’t even located in the house itself. By the 1940s, 85 percent of American homes had a refrigerator in the kitchen. It took 20 years for refrigerators to become a mainstay in kitchens. Kitchen décor in the 1940s was colorful and bright. Kitchens were often primarily two colors. Tile was often installed on the countertops. One primary color was used for most of the kitchen while the trim and accents featured the other color. Turquoise green, blue, pink, canary yellow, red and white were very popular kitchen colors. Americans in the 1940s were very patriotic, and red, white and blue color palettes were often used in
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decorating. New kitchen innovations in the ‘40s included stylish fixtures like acrylic knobs on cabinets and bright, cheery window treatments. Bread boxes and canister sets were common in kitchens. The idea behind the work triangle was that the main kitchen workhorses: the sink, stove and refrigerator, should be arranged in a triangle fashion for maximum efficiency. Ideally, each side of the triangle was to be between 4 and 9 feet in length. The standard U and L shaped kitchen were considered the best use of space and that was adopted into the modern kitchen. Kitchen appliances were coated in enamel. The most popular color was white enamel, but red, blue, yellow and sometimes mint green appliances completed the kitchen design.
After World War II, the home real estate market exploded. Homebuyers were lured to the suburbs with visions of large, luxurious kitchens compared to traditional, small, city-dweller versions. Kitchens of the 1950s saw bold colors and matching appliances. Backsplashes and wallpapers were used to bring pattern and shapes to the walls. Customization became the driving point behind every kitchen. Easyto-reach and access cabinetry was also invented to make the modern house easy and accessible to prepare meals. Undercabinet lighting made it easier to see the preparation space and became a luxury item added to a custom kitchen
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The 1980s to 1990s saw a rise in the popularity of the kitchen island and a space for the whole family to gather. Spending time together while a meal was being prepared was at the heart of the ‘80s family kitchen. The bright colors of before were replaced with soft soothing colors. The rise of granite as a popular countertop choice along with oak-colored cabinets and no visible handles. Appliances were streamlined into one color for the whole kitchen. White and black were the standard. Early 2000s saw a boom in the McMansion. Kitchens became much larger and a hang out spot for friends and guests. Kitchen cabinets were sleek with dark wood cabinets and stainless-steel appliances. Bright beautiful colors were less popular, and a more mainstream unified colors pallet was the standard in the early 2000s.
Kitchen trends of today see a coming together of all the decades. Kitchens are wide open spaces where all the family and friends can gather. The customization of cabinets and large islands continue to be a mainstay in the modern kitchen. Full customization on the cabinets with roll out trash drawers, cupboard organization, and coffee stations are extremely popular in custom kitchens. The popularity of quartz is the main surface installed in most kitchens. It’s durability and wide variety of color choices make it a perfect choice for kitchens that get lots of use. Although a white kitchen is timeless, we are beginning to see a mix of vintage pieces mixed with new for an eclectic and lived-in feel. Color is making a comeback with deep shades of green. Blue is showing
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up on custom islands or pantries for a pop of color. Customers are maximizing space with cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling. Hidden appliances are a definite upgrade for a seamless kitchen esthetic. A large statement hood has become a focal point of the modernday kitchen, and beautiful textured backsplashes bring a bit of personality to each person’s home along with mixed metals throughout. We will continue to see the homeowner’s personality brought out in the custom design and individuality of each kitchen. The modern kitchen trends are about making the best kitchen space for you and your lifestyle and don’t conform to a one size fits all box.
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charity spotlight
Helping an Elderly Man Visit His Wife During Christmas By Aimée O’Grady | Photography by PATH Foundation Community Report
ON THE DRIVE HOME the first time Cindy Burbank took Truman Moore to visit his wife Mabel in the nursing home, she noticed that he was wiping away a tear and Cindy knew then that she had found the right organization to devote her volunteer time. Cindy Burbank took her time finding her place in her new community when she moved to Fauquier County in 2011 after her retirement. She had spent 35 years working in the Federal government, commuting in and out of Washington, D.C. Relocating to rural Fauquier County required some adjustment. To become better acquainted with the community, she began to look for volunteer opportunities. “I wanted to find something that was directly helping someone,” she said. One of the organizations that caught her eye was VolTran, one of the Trusted Community Partners offering transportation services to individuals needing rides.
Cindy with Truman
As a volunteer, she began each day reviewing an email from FAMS, Foothills Area Mobility System, that funnels calls to organizations like VolTran, listing people needing rides. “The rides request could be for the next day, or as far out as 45 days,” said Burbank. “The email included necessary information for the driver, but also a few details on the person requesting the ride and their need,” she added. One morning in late summer 2019, as she read the requests, one stood out to her. It was a request from a man asking to visit his wife in a nursing home. It pulled on her heartstrings. “He lived in Markham, and she was in Gainesville; I knew that I would be signing up for a longterm commitment if I offered a ride to this gentleman,” said Cindy, who later called Truman to arrange transportation. Truman was born in Fauquier County in 1942. At nearly 80 years old, he and his wife of thirty years, Mabel, were living in a small log cabin on a farm where he had worked for many years. Having retired, the farm owner permitted Truman and Mabel to remain there for the rest of their lives. Cindy began to drive Truman to see Mabel. “They were so happy when they saw each other, and I began to bring him to the nursing home to visit with her once a week. I would drop him off in the morning and return later in the afternoon to bring him home,” said Cindy. “The couple was completely devoted to each other,” she added. As summer moved into fall and the holidays began to approach, Cindy began to worry about Truman. “I knew that spending Christmas together was very important for Truman and Mabel, but my own two sons, who live out of state, were planning to visit and I wanted to visit with my family as well,” said Cindy, who grew concerned. She turned back to VolTran to find a volunteer who could help. Gary Pinson responded to her request. “He offered to take Truman in the morning, and I was going to bring him back home. It was a relief to know that they would be able to be together on Christmas,” she expressed. With Christmas Day settled, Cindy began to help the couple with gifts for each other. “Mabel pulled me aside during one visit and asked for my help in getting Truman gifts from her, which I was able to do. For Mabel’s gifts, I took Truman to Walmart to pick out some things for her,” she said. It would be their last Christmas together. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and nursing homes locked down, Truman could only speak to Mabel on the phone. He
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could tell she was failing. One day in May, he called Cindy to let her know that Mabel had died.
The VolTran mission is to provide transportation for the elderly, persons with disabilities and others in serious need for medical appointments and critical errands. Visit www.voltran. org/ for more information.
Cindy was there to help Truman with the days ahead. “I helped him make the arrangements with the funeral home, where he was able to view Mabel. When I brought him home, I realized he needed something appropriate to wear to her funeral.” She again turned to VolTran, “Libbi Moore, the VolTran Coordinator, and I were able to collect appropriate clothes for Truman with help from his former employer at the farm.”
The Foothills Area Mobility System offers transportation services to people in need; they have vehicles that will accommodate a wheelchair. Volunteer drivers with FAMS have taken clients as far as West Virginia, D.C. and Richmond. There are no eligibility requirements aside from need. However, the agency does need a two-day advance notice to reach out to volunteers. For more information or to volunteer with FAMS visit www.fams.org.
The day of the funeral, Cindy drove Truman. Following the funeral, she collected Mabel’s items from the nursing home, taking extra care to put everything in large black plastic bags. “I left them in bags for a few days until I was certain there were no germs on them that I could potentially pass on to Truman.” Cindy even wrote Mabel’s obituary and worked with Truman to make arrangements for his own funeral and burial beside Mabel. Without a trusted ride service system, a vulnerable man like Truman could easily have been taken advantage of. To help those in need of a ride to find trusted services, they can now look for a gold seal.
FAMS works collaboratively within the newly implemented Regional Transportation Collaborative Mobility Model to support, expand and improve transportation options in Culpeper, Orange, Fauquier, Madison and Rappahannock counties.
The Regional Transportation Collaborative, that VolTran is a part of, was awarded a grant from AARP to create the Trusted Community Partnership gold seal, a visual representation of safety that works to overcome two key barriers older adults and individuals with disabilities face when trying to access transportation supports – awareness and trust.
The gold seal means that services partnered under RTC have been vetted and can be trusted. Prior to the formation of the Foothills Area Mobility System, each organization working with volunteers to provide rides to clients operated independently, often duplicating efforts. FAMS took over receipt of calls and works with each organization to fill needs, leaving each organization to focus on its strengths – finding great volunteer drivers so people like Truman and Mabel can focus on each other for as long as they can.
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Truman and Mabel were fortunate. In a desperate situation and vulnerable to individuals with poor intent, they received services from trusted community organizations working together to ensure that our community’s most vulnerable individuals are not taken advantage of. Not only were they paired with a trust-worthy driver, who had been carefully vetted, but who went well above and beyond what was being asked of her.
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Interested in journalism? Brookside Neighbors Magazine is looking for Fauquier and Kettle Run high school students to participate as student journalist interns for the spring semester. As an intern, you will work with the editor to develop and compose stories about school activities for the monthly magazine. Two students will be selected from each high school. Contact aogrady@ bestversionmedia.com to apply.
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Calendar of Events
EVENTS 2021
Ongoing Spiritual Care Support Ministries
COFFEE & CONVERSATION
7179 New Hope Lane, Warrenton, VA 20187. Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon, Spiritual Care Support Ministries opens to the community to provide fellowship, encouragement, and hope through conversation with others, we invite you to come for a cup of coffee, tea, light refreshments, and a place to chat. Please visit www.scsm.tv or call 540-349-5814 for more information.
SPIRITUAL CARE SUPPORT MINISTRIES at 7179 New Hope Lane,
Warrenton, VA 20187 offers support groups/ counseling and special events for those experiencing the death of a loved one, divorce, and chronic illness. Services are free. For upcoming events and times go to the website www.scsm.tv or call 540-349-5814.
DECEMBER 9
Kettle Run Band Booster Meeting
Time: 6:00 p.m. Location: Kettle Run High School, 7403 Academic Ave, Nokesville
DECEMBER 10 AND 17
Storytime for Littles
Come join The Open Book Team for Storytime! We welcome all the kiddos regardless of age but generally gear stories to the 3-6 range. Time: 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. Cost: Free Location: Old Town Open Book, 104 Main Street, Warrenton www.facebook.com/events/804947950156017
DECEMBER 10
Challenge Class
Join your favorite instructors for an amazing 75-minute workout! Stay afterwards for social hour. Time: 5:45 – 7:00 p.m. Location: Chestnut Forks, 6379 Airlie Road, Warrenton https://chestnutforks.com/
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DECEMBER 2021
DECEMBER 12
America’s Gem: "75 Years of the Lockheed Martin Skunk Works"
Drawing from his book 75 Years of the Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, Jim Goodall takes us from the beginning of the Skunk Works's first project (XP-80 Shooting Star) and follows the program through prototype build-up, first flight and, if they reached the frontline, operational service. What sets this presentation and book apart are the photos of the developmental phases of unclassified projects by Skunk Works, featuring the work of lead engineer Kelly Johnson and his team and successors, with more attention to programs that went into production and merit more detailed coverage, such as the P-80/F94/T-33 family, C-130 family and, of course, the A-12 and SR-71. Time: 2:00 - 3:30 p.m., virtually Cost: $20 To register: www.coldwar.org
DECEMBER 11 AND 12
2nd Annual Verdun Holiday Fest and Christmas Market
To thank the community for their support and celebrate the holidays, Verdun Adventure Bound is hosting their 2nd Annual Verdun Holiday Fest and European Christmas Market. The free admission to this event gives families access to the dual zipline and bouldering wall. While outdoor enthusiasts enjoy these challenges, family members can stroll the traditional Christmas Market and purchase holiday gifts from local craftspeople. Santa will also make an appearance driving sleigh rides and for photos with guests. His workshop will be open for children to buy gifts for family and everyone will enjoy live music, food and drink vendors, and warming stations throughout the property. Time: 12:00 - 7:00 p.m. Cost: Free Location: Verdun Adventure Bound, 17044 Adventure Bound Trail, Rixeyville www.facebook.com/events/565642291196191
DECEMBER 11
Family Nature Walks
Time: 10:00 a.m. – Noon Families with children in grades K-8 are invited to come along as we explore the field station and experience autumn in Virginia. We’ll explore the woods to look for changes in the landscape and migrating birds. This program is a wonderful opportunity for families to explore nature together. We pick a different trail to explore each month and usually move slowly as we stop often to look at and learn about the plants and animals that live in Northern Virginia. Cost: Free Age: Families with children in grades K – 8 Location: The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton Register at https://cliftoninstitute.org/
DECEMBER 11
Garland Making Workshop
Forage and learn how to make a lovely natural garland for mantles, doorways, or table. Greenery and natural embellishments are included. BYO heavy duty pruners. Attire: farm comfortable, wear layers, and waterproof shoes. Cost: $100/person Location: Winfall Farms, 5023 Dumfries Rd, Catlett www.facebook.com/events/957130051802731
DECEMBER 11
Altered Bear Pinball Tournament!
Join us for a pinball tournament between two locations, Altered Suds and Black Bear Bistro in Warrenton, VA! Altered has great beer, and you have to try the brick oven pizza from Black Bear! Noon Registration at 36A Main Street, Warrenton Tourney starts at 1pm. www.facebook.com/events/207483168194525
DECEMBER 12
Holiday Crafts: 12 Ways to Wrap and Gift Your Christmas Cookies w Dinah Corley
Come and watch the author of the James Beard award-nominated GOURMET GIFTS cookbook demonstrate a dozen creative ways to wrap Christmas cookies. Dinah will also show and share
with you one of her favorite cookies. This is a demonstration class. Time: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Cost: $35 Location: Wellness Kitchen of Warrenton, 17 North 5th Street, Warrenton www.facebook.com/events/150667760566620
orchestral music with Grace Church's Choir to celebrate the holiday season. Time: 5:00 p.m. Cost: $25/adult, $15/under 18 Location: Grace Episcopal Church, 6507 Main Street, The Plains www.gracetheplains.org/
DECEMBER 12
DECEMBER 14
Join the PSO in collaboration with Warrenton's own Silver Tones Swing Band and vocal trio, The Silver Belles, in a holiday concert extravaganza like no other! Hear your favorite holiday tunes set to the driving sounds of a Big Band and relive classic Swing hits from the era in this high octane musical celebration! Time: 3:00 pm Cost: $35/person Location: Highland School www.facebook.com/events/223080443129856
For the first time ever, we are offering after-school programs! Students in grades 3-8 are invited to join us for an adventure in nature. Activities will vary from month to month and will include science projects, art projects, and lessons in outdoor skills; but every month we will spend time outside making friends with each other. Sign up now and bring your friends! Time: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Cost: $8 - $10 Ages: Children in grades 3-8, drop off only Location: The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton Register at https://cliftoninstitute.org/
Swing Back into the Holidays
DECEMBER 12
A Baroque Christmas
Join us for the magical sounds of Baroque
After School Adventure
DECEMBER 31
Roaring 20s NYE 2021 Bash with the Silver Tones Swing Band at Gloria's
This New Year’s Eve, step back in time with the powerful Silver Tones Swing Band, as we ring in 2022 in high fashion. Gloria’s quaint venue sets the stage for a sultry night of hot jazz in the speakeasy. Guests are invited to dress in vintage 1920s attire…imagine the elegance of velvet evening gowns, flapper dresses, 1920s headpieces, Gatsby suits with suspenders, or sharp-looking fedoras. The Silver Tones Swing Band will take the stage at 9 pm to play three sets of high-energy swing and Dixieland music, straight into 2022! At the first band break, there will be a Charleston contest with a prize for the winning couple. Time: 8:00 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. Cost: $50 Location: Gloria Faye Dingus Center for the Arts, 92 Main Street, St. 104, Warrenton www.facebook.com/events/767535757257061
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