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Horticultural
Heroes
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2 www.VaNeighbors.com
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MARCH | APRIL 2009
Contents
38 Horticultural Heroes Master Gardeners Sara Broyles and other local volunteers help the National Park Service employees maintain the grounds and gardens of Chatham Manor. While it is rewarding detailing a historic garden, it’s also a time-consuming responsibility.
Your ideas are important to us, so if you’d like to recommend a story or send an event for Out&About, drop us a line at: Virginia Neighbors 8418 Pathfinder’s Court Spotsylvania, VA 22553
46 When The Rubber Hits The Road
Or, email us at: editor@willowpub.com
Bike racer. Teacher. Father. Fredericksburg’s Bill Evans is a man of many titles— a leader defined by his all-or-nothing performance both in the classroom and on the racecourse.
Frontdoor 13 TRENDS
Dancing the night away.
14 HISTORY
Dolley Madison begins a much-loved tradition.
16 FOCUS
Connecting with Carl’s Ice Cream groupies on Facebook.
18 PROFILE
Jenn Rollins is building character, one girl at a time.
20 FLASHBACK
Memories of rollicking good times at a local honky-tonk.
backYard 25 COME & GET IT Celebrate Ireland with a pint or two.
26 HUMOR
Yoga mats and macho men.
Cover Photo by Jamie Haverkamp
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28 HOMEGROWN
applause
Extend your growing season with a backyard greenhouse.
53 MUSIC
History, habitats, and horticulture— now’s the time to visit Maymont.
54 BEST BITES
30 ARE WE THERE YET?
32 OUTDOORS
Discover the best fishing holes in our area.
34 HOMEKEEPING
Bringing Spring indoors.
36 TRAVEL
The Museum of the Shenandoah makes for a memorable trip.
Rappahannock Youth Symphony. The Fredericksburg Pub
56 ART
Rob Landeck
out&about 59 Kickball at UMW; an auction at the Fredericksburg Area Museum; Spring Barrel Tastings; a Fly-Fishing Show; The Home and Garden Show; and much more.
Cul-de-sac 64 Small Town Morning.
« Don’t miss the Belmont in Bloom Tour on Sunday, April 29th. See page 59.
MARCH / APRIL 2009 | virGinia neiGhbors 7
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The Reuben Is Back! BOGO Reuben! Buy one Reuben sandwich and receive another Reuben or sandwich choice of equal or lesser value FREE! 1911 Carl D. Silver Pkwy. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Cafe (540) 548-3663
www.cafecamille.com
Offer available at this location only. Not to be combined with other offers. Offer expires 04/30/09
It’s more than where we live, it’s who we are
Co-Publisher / editor Kendall Childress Co-Publisher / Creative direCtor Don Saucier GraPhiC desiGners Adam DeSio, Jane Welihozkiy ContributinG Writers John Amos, Lyle C. Brown, Lynda Chitwood Kathy Lewis, C. C. McCotter, Debbie McInnis Regina Prunty, Paul Sullivan Nicholas Addison Thomas ContributinG PhotoGraPhers Walker Broyles, Adam DeSio, Mike Fairbanks, Tracey Crehan Gerlach, Eric Grossman, Robyn Harold, Jamie Haverkamp, Marta Locklear, Mark Novakowski, Jay Paul, Donald Saucier, Todd Smith, Will Williams, advertisinG and CirCulation direCtor Gerald Childress
VAAF729
Unrivaled experience & results have made Nicholls Auction the AUCTION COMPANY OF CHOICE. Virginia Neighbors is published every two months by:
P.O. Box 2038 Spotsylvania, Virginia 22553-2038 540-548-0555 E-mail: editor@vaneighbors.com To subscribe visit:
www.vaneighbors.com All editorial, advertising, reprint, and/or circulation correspondence should use the above address or visit the website.
One generation later ... OUR COMMITMENT & VISION REMAIN STRONG w w w . n i c h o l l s a u c t i o n . c o m
( 5 4 0 ) 8 9 8 - 0 971
Virginia Neighbors welcomes but accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts and art. © 2009 by Willow Publishing, Inc.
8 www.VaNeighbors.com
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Hilltop
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REGULAR SERVICES • Orthopedics/Spinal Disorders • Headaches/TMJ • Joint Replacements • Extremity Pain/Foot Pain/Hand Therapy • Back Education/Scoliosis • Work Injuries • Motor Vehicle Accidents
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SPOTSY OFFICE MOVE! Our Spotsylvania office has moved. From: 10470 Georgetown Drive Spotsylvania,VA
To: 10504 Wakeman Drive Fredericksburg,VA 22407 At the corner of Southpoint Parkway & Courthouse Rd./208 (by Medic 1) Phone: 540.891.5326 • Fax: 540.891.6316
Snowden Office Located at: 605 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 202 • Fredericksburg,VA 22401 Phone: 540.899.0002 • Fax: 540.899.0082
Minnieland Summer Camp
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edule a tour. Call today and sch that day, you When you register gift card!! 0 will receive a $5
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It may seem cold outside now, but...summer vacation is coming and Minnieland is ready! Our camp staff has created a summer camp program where children of all ages will jump into sports and games, explore nature and the environment, read, laugh, sing, and enjoy special friendships.
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Minnieland at North Stafford Stafford, 540-658-1000 Minnieland at Aquia Stafford, 540-720-6694 Minnieland of Park Ridge Stafford, 540-720-3669
Stafford/frederickSburg area LocationS Minnieland at Stafford Lakes Fredericksburg, 540-286-3655 Minnieland at Leavells Fredericksburg, 540-898-9269
Minnieland at Heritage Commons Minnieland Castle Fredericksburg, 540-374-0365 Fredericksburg, 540-786-2434 Minnieland Early Learning Center www.minnieland.com Fredericksburg, 540-373-8877
Minnieland at The Library Fredericksburg, 540-785-9816 Minnieland at Central Park Fredericksburg, 540-786-5544 Minnieland at the Courthouse Spotsylvania, 540-582-8005 Minnieland at Massaponax Fredericksburg, 540-898-3213 Minnieland at Salem Fields Fredericksburg, 540-785-2244
10 www.VaNeighbors.com
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FROM THE PUBLISHERS
I
t’s time to say goodbye to the cold, grey skies of winter, and welcome the warmth of spring. This is the season of colors and rebirth— an anticipated part of the year when Mother Nature hits the refresh button and life springs eternal once again. There’s a tangible energy that seems to take hold at the first sign of spring, and we’ve harnessed that energy in this issue of Virginia Neighbors. Our region is a testament to local grandeur. We are privileged have so much history and beauty in and around the community. For example, Chatham Manor is known for its breathtaking gardens, but few know about the dedicated corps of volunteers who work alongside the National Park Service to restore and care for those gardens. Without them, the gardens wouldn’t exist. Read how Master Gardener Sara Broyles is helping to maintain this historic landscape. You’ll also meet a gentleman who will inspire you to dust off your old bike and go for a ride. Bill Evans is a competitive bike racer whose drive and determination has made him a fixture in the local racing circuit. And yet, his most loyal fans are his students at Fredericksburg Academy, where he teaches fourthgrade history. Read on to learn why Bill is an inspiration in the classroom and on the bike course. If it’s musical history you’re looking for, take a walk back in time and discover Poplar Tavern, Spotsylvania’s first and mostfamous honky-tonk. It was the place to be on a on a Saturday night, drawing in crowds of country fans and celebrated singers alike. Today, an equally good time can be found at The Fredericksburg Pub, where you can experience a bit of the United Kingdom right in your own backyard. Take advantage of this weather by experiencing the great outdoors. But before you break out the fishing rods, be sure to read C.C. McCotter’s guide to the area’s finest fishing spots. If you’re looking to plan a family daytrip, Richmond’s Maymont is high on our list, thanks to their beautiful gardens, historical house-museum and loads of kid-friendly entertainment. In this issue of Virginia Neighbors, you’ll find everything you need to embrace this beautiful time of year and discover a whole new side of Fredericksburg. We hope you have a wonderful spring, and as always, thanks for making Virginia Neighbors a part of this community.
Marta Locklear Photo
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NEWS | HISTORY | BUSINESS | TRENDS | PERSONALITIES
FrontDoor
TRENDS
ballroom dancing is not Just For the stars
If you’ve ever been inclined to learn to dance, or you just want to try something new, then consider taking dance lessons. Just don’t let the term ballroom scare you. Ballroom dancing covers a variety of dances performed socially or competitively. These include the Cha Cha, the Fox Trot and the Rumba. There is also East Coast Swing and the Tango. Don’t forget the Bolero and the Waltz! All of these dances are designed to be performed by couples. One leads and the other follows a pattern of predictable steps. The wonderful thing about any of these
»
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FrontDoor
BALLROOM continued ________________________
dances is that they can be learned one step at a time. People take lessons because they want to be confident on the dance floor and they also want to reap the exercise benefits. Couples often take lessons because they want something recreational to do together. Women are more likely to initiate, but their partners often discover that they also enjoy learning how to dance. Anjela and David Eubank of Spotsylvania are learning the Fox Trot. David says he is enjoying the six-week course even though it was something he had to be dragged into. Angela says that watching “Dancing with the Stars” brought ballroom dancing “front and center.” Apparently, taking lessons had been the couple’s New Year’s resolution for the past five years. The couple takes classes at Strictly Ballroom in Fredericksburg. The studio is owned by Michael and Melissa Scott, who also teach dance. They offer lessons in 47 types of dance, which include some non-traditional ones, such as the Lindy, the Salsa and the Hustle, as well as many subcategories of traditional dances. For example, there are three types of Tango and eight types of Swing. And since big band music is popular in the Fredericksburg region, the most requested lessons by couples are for the Fox Trot and Swing, Melissa says. She adds that Salsa is most requested by single women. Couples who are learning to dance spend at least an hour a week, not counting their practice time, looking into each others’ eyes and holding hands. Melissa says that many couples find dance lessons therapeutic for their relationship— they learn to communicate without words. During their workout, they listen to the dance instructor’s directions, they tune into their partner’s moves and they think about their own next step. There is a lot of smiling and laughing when one or the other missteps or draws a blank on the next step. It is easy to see that this kind of learning is fun. The Eubanks attend a class where couples range in age from about 30 through the senior years. During a Wednesday night Fox Trot class, Michael Scott watched the couples while calling out “slow, slow, quick, quick,” to indicate the beat and pattern for the dancers. If they had trouble getting it right, he demonstrated a slowed-down version of the pattern, and then had the couples repeat it. Repetition in dance, like anything else, is the key to mastery. Music varies in its characteristics, such as rhythm, tempo, and instruments used. When taking lessons, the students build an awareness of the styles of music and dance that work best together. Michael says, “You can pick out the couples who have taken lessons. They don’t go up to the dance floor right away. They sit and listen to determine what style of dance will fit the music.” If you want to watch video-clip demonstrations of the many dance styles and how to do them, go to www.expertvillage.com and enter “ballroom dancing” in the search box. For more information about attending classes at Strictly Ballroom, call 540.898.9060 or visit their Web site at www.strictlyballroom.net.
HISTORY
dolley Madison: First lady of the easter egg roll Since 1878, American presidents and their families have celebrated Easter Monday by hosting an “egg roll” party. Held on the South Lawn, it is one of the oldest annual events in White House history. Dolley Madison, the wife of President James Madison, began the event in 1814 and hundreds of children brought their decorated eggs to join in the fun. The original site was on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol, but in 1877 a new lawn was planted and the gardeners cancelled the event. Congress then passed a law making it illegal to use the grounds as a children’s playground. At the request of a number of children, including his own, the then President Rutherford B. Hayes and his wife, Lucy Hayes, brought the event to the White House lawns. On occasion, the Easter Egg Roll has been cancelled, either due to inclement weather or in times of war. In these cases, it is sometimes relocated to another Washington site, such as the National Zoo or even back to the Capitol. The longest hiatus was for World War II. President Dwight Eisenhower reintroduced the Egg Roll in 1953 to a whole new generation of children that had never experienced this treasured tradition.
— Kathy Lewis
14 www.VaNeighbors.com
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FrontDoor
FOCUS
Carls ice Cream (enough said) Facebook offers groupies a chance to connect, swap stories, and drool
F
amilies wait in lines that extend for blocks, tourists sit in traffic to taste a morsel of local culture and visiting food experts marvel at the simple-yetscrumptious ice cream that oozes out of antiquated Elector Freeze machines. It can only be Carl’s Ice Cream, the famous roadside stand located on Princess Anne Street.
Since it’s opening in 1947, Carl’s has been a delicious fixture on the dessert front, offering patrons young and old soft-serve ice cream with a side of memories. Known for their inexpensive offerings, hand-scooped for you by freshfaced employees in paper hats, the ice cream parlor is a haven for the hungry, especially when the heat index reaches eye-brow-raising heights. Open from the Friday before President’s Day Weekend to the Sunday before Thanksgiving, Carl’s has acquired a following that rivals that of local Civil War monuments. It’s no surprise then that the small, family-owned business has found a following on the Internet. A few years ago, University of Mary Washington student Cameron John created “Carl’s Ice Cream (enough said),” a virtual “who’s who” of Carl’s addicts. The online club lives on Facebook, one of Owen and mom Judith travel from Canada for their Carl’s fix (and to visit grandparents as well), while Kelly and Matt made their stop en route to their wedding reception.
16 www.VaNeighbors.com
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Left: Marc Novakowski Photo; Right: Robyn Harold Photo
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EXPERIENCE
the most popular social-networking Web sites in the world. The interactive group offers an outlet for Facebook friends to chat about their Carl’s memories, their favorite dishes and the popularity of the small business. “It's a piece of Fredericksburg culture, and they serve great ice cream. You can always count on Carl's to taste the same way it always has,” said Tiffany Gross, a Fredericksburg native and club member. “It’s a piece of home. Fredericksburg wouldn't be the same without it.” To date, there are approximately 5,699 members in “Carl’s Ice Cream (enough said),” many of whom continue to visit the establishment. From hardcore fans that frequent the joint every weekend to passersby who enjoyed a pineapple-topped sundae, everyone has a place to tell their stories. It’s this level of faithfulness that continues to affirm Carl’s as a mainstay in the community. Just ask Courtney Berry, who remains a Carl’s fan for life even though she now lives in New York. “It’s an icon in Fredericksburg.DSmith_VaN0309.indd I know I went at least once a week from February to November when I was a kid— sometimes multiple times a week,” said Berry. “I joined the group because of all the memories I have going there growing up. I guess it's my way of supporting a local business back home.” Though Fredericksburg has changed over the years, Carl’s has not. The historic business sticks to what works: superb service and ice cream that tastes like perfection. It’s the main reason why Carl’s is a successful, family-friendly hotspot year after year. With franchise ice cream parlors and other whiz-bang outlets popping up throughout the region, it’s nice to see a local heavyweight keep its title as the community’s number-one dessert destination. And if the popularity of “Carl’s Ice Cream (enough said)” is any indication, it’s a good bet the pint-size place will be around for another generation of tummies.
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—Nicholas Addison Thomas MARCH / APRIL 2009 | virGinia neiGhbors 17
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PROFILE
Leading The Way
Jenn Rollins leads Troop 44 in King George
Scout leader Jenn Rollins prepares girls for life
A
t first glance, the Girl Scouts of the USA may conjure images of camping, cookie sales, and badge-covered uniforms. But a closer look at its origin and those who serve as troop leaders illuminates the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s purpose to build character and skills for success in the real world. The Girl Scouts boast 3.7 million members worldwide. It was started in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low with 18 girls in Savannah, Georgia. Initially known as American Girl Guides, the organization was later renamed. By organizing troops to participate in outdoor activities, Low hoped to prepare girls for more in life than traditional homemaking. She wanted girls to consider careers in the arts, sciences and business, and become active citizens. Today, Girl Scouts is the largest educational organization for girls in the world. Less than one million of its members are the adults who make the program possible. Most of these are volunteers, such as Jenn Rollins, who leads Troop 44 in King George. Rollins, a self-employed CPA, is married with two children. Growing up, she was a Girl Scout. When her daughter, Cassidy, joined a troop, Rollins volunteered to help out. The next year, she became troop leader, a position she has proudly held for six years. Recently, Virginia Neighbors met with Rollins, who talked about her experience as a leader, her relationship with the girls, and her thoughts about how they benefit by being part of a troop.
VN: How do you see your role in the Girl Scouts,
and how has that changed over the years?
JR: I am something in between a friend and a parent. I am a shoulder to lean on and somebody who helps the girls figure out where they want to go today and tomorrow. For years, I planned the meetings, decided what badges the girls would earn and did the legwork for trips. Probably two years ago, I told my girls that they were going to lead, and I was going to be their troop facilitator. And that is what we do now. Last summer we went to Smith Mountain Lake. It was their idea and they did the legwork. For months they asked if we could go to the mall. I told them to find a way to tie the outing to a badge activity. One girl came up with a consumer-power badge. She planned all of the activities required to complete the badge and made all of the arrangements. In Girl Scouts, we talk about being a girl-led organization. This is my goal for my troop. VN: How does leading a troop enhance your life? JR: Leading a troop takes a lot of time and adds to the things I have to balance in my life. But I will forever be Miss Jenn to them. I love my girls. They are like daughters. I have watched them grow, and now they are becoming young ladies. VN: What are some of the life skills that the girls
are learning?
JR: Scouts gain experiences beyond what we can give them in the home. My first trip without my parents was a Girl Scout camping trip. My first experience in sales and goal-setting was selling Girl Scouts cookies. Two years ago, my daughter was a 1,000-box
Marta Locklear Photo
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cookie seller. This year, three other girls said they want to sell 1,000 boxes. Their parents are probably cringing, because that is a lot of work. But the girls are setting goals. They are also learning to plan. If they want to earn awards, they have to plan service projects. They can earn Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards. This year, as Cadettes, they can earn their Silver Award. Each girl has to initiate her own project. I will help file the paperwork for councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s approval. I will advise and support them, but it is their project. When they earn a Gold Award, they qualify for college scholarships, so I am encouraging all my girls to think about those service projects. VN: How do you build courage,
confidence and character in the girls?
JR: I nudge them to try new things. When we started camping, not all of the girls were sure they wanted to do it. Some were apprehensive about going tubing. This summer we plan to do tree-house camping. There may be some apprehension about sleeping in the trees. This year we had a girl who did a booth sale for the first time. That is when you stand in front of a store selling peanuts or cookies. Her dad was there. It takes courage for our kids to ask people to buy products and explain what the troop is doing with the money. I expect the girls to share the duties without assigning tasks all the time. I expect them to be courteous, kind, and help each other. When we do events within the King George Service Unit, our girls reach out to other troops, particularly ones with younger girls. They help them get acclimated to camping or other activities. Part of character-building is learning to work with people you may not like. And sometimes you may not even know why. But you have a responsibility to treat everybody with kindness and respect, and that is what I expect from my troop. And they respect that. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Kathy Lewis
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FLASHBACK
Honky Tonk Saturday Night For decades, Spotsylvania’s Poplar Tavern was the place to go for a good time
D
riving through the countryside of western Spotsylvania County, one would never know that a real honky-tonk once stood in its open fields, a place called Poplar Tavern. Many memories were made at that wooden dance hall. Stories are told of people meeting future spouses, the launching of music careers, or the newlyweds who spent their honeymoon there! How about the time country music star Patsy Cline stood on the stage and belted out tunes like “Crazy” and “I Fall to Pieces”? Or, the night one of the dancers went into labor while performing the famous John Paul Jones dance? Everyone who ever spent an evening at Poplar Tavern had a tale to tell. For decades it was a regional hotspot for those looking to relax, eat and drink, and most of all,
dance. On Saturday nights, the Tavern featured country and western bands, and on other nights, there were community-benefit dances and less-raucous settings for those in need of a hot meal. Poplar Tavern was pure honky-tonk, what with its wooden floors and a film of sawdust to help dancers swing to the music that included waltzes, square dancing and even line-dancing during band breaks. Word has it that Poplar Tavern provided the best acoustic and sound environment around. Some of the local bands that spent their weekends at Poplar Tavern included Midnight
Above, The Virginia Ramblers band and a couple additional musicians provide backup for Patsy Cline on stage at Poplar Tavern in the early 1950’s. Ralph Johnson, Jr. is shown in his uniform behind the upright bass keeping the beat and the peace. Pictured from left to right are Salkeld Stamper, Randy Moore, Willie Withers, Patsy Cline, Noble Withers, Johnson, Harold “Dishpan” Dent and Carrol Moore.
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Photos courtesy of Gary Johnson (grandson of Ralph M.Johnson, Sr.)
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Cowboys, Joe Sacra and the Country Boys, Country Raiders, Stephens Brothers and First Class Country, and Living After Midnight. Many of these musicians still play in the area. Most of the Tavern’s 200+ patrons were “regulars” on Saturday nights. While there was dancing inside, other activities were happening outside. As music filtered through the doors and windows couples, crawled into backseats for some alone time. Others gathered in small groups with their instruments and made music of their own. Some stepped outside to whet their whistles or settle disputes, and young boys perched in the trees for a better view of the evenings’ goings-on. Whatever people were doing, one thing was certain: everyone enjoyed a Saturday night out at Poplar. Built in the early 1950s, Poplar Tavern was the brainchild of Ralph M. Johnson. Because music was such a huge part of the Johnson family, he thought it would be great to build a place where they could share their love of music with the community. Ralph, Jr. (a former Spotsylvania County sheriff ) kept a watchful eye on the crowd from behind his upright bass while onstage. His brother, Reggie, assisted with the operations of the dance hall, and other family members helped out at the snack bar serving homemade food, drinks and “set-ups.” Poplar Tavern remained in the Johnson family for years after Ralph passed away. In the early 1970s, though, they decided to turn the property over to someone who had similar dreams of providing an outlet for live music, dancing and socializing with neighbors. Unfortunately, one Sunday morning in the late 1980s, after another busy Saturday night, Poplar Tavern burned down. Some folks tell a story about an “unsatisfied” customer. Today, all that’s left of Spotsylvania’s historic honky-tonk is memories of a time when country music and passion collided on the dance floor. —Debbie McInnis MARCH / APRIL 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 21
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HOME&GARDEN | TRAVEL | HEALTH | FOOD | FAMILY
BackYard
Here’s to a long life, and a merry one; A quick death, and an easy one; A pretty girl, and an honest one; A cold beer— and another one! Irish toast
Ah, St. Patrick’s Day. COME & GET IT
To many Irish-Americans it's such a Catch-22: On the one hand, it's a celebration of their fondness for a good time; on the other hand, there’s all the sequined leprechaun hats, fake Irish accents and that most outrageous cultural insult of all … green beer! Ireland has a very proud beer-brewing heritage, and there are two styles considered indigenous to the island, Dry Stout and Irish Red Ale., both of which can still be found on the Emerald Isle today. Dry Stout is an adaptation of Porter, a British style of beer that was popular in the early industrial era. During this period, several breweries began making a stronger version of Porter, which they called “Stout Porter.” Both of these beers were popular in London, and soon caught on in Dublin. Each city had very hard water, which required a lot of dark malts in the beer to balance out the alkalinity.
»
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IRISH BEER continued ___________________________________________________ Thus, these beers were born of necessity before brewers learned how to adjust water chemistry. Slowly, Porter fell out of favor, and Stout grew lighter in character, like we know it to be today. Guinness stopped making the last Porter brewed in the British Isles in 1974, although the style was revived by budding craft breweries in Great Britain and America about four years later. While both of these beer styles are great for drinking, and I recommend them for St. Patrick’s Day, they can also be used in cooking some traditional Irish dishes. The Irish Red would go very well in a beef or lamb stew, and the Stout works wonders with corned beef and cabbage. My grandmother’s maiden name was O’Leary, so our family had a tradition of eating corned beef and cabbage every St. Patrick’s Day. Although my mother’s recipe is quite good, I have adjusted it a wee bit by using Stout instead of water. I hope you enjoy it! Sláinte!
Grandma O’leary’s Corned Beef and Cabbage 1 corned beef brisket, about 4 pounds 8-12 oz good Irish Stout (Beamish, Murphy’s or Guinness) 2T Pickling Spice (or more to taste) 1 Sliced orange, with peel 1 Onion 2 Stalks Celery, with leaves 1 Carrot, sliced 12 Small New or Red Potatoes, peeled 1 Head Cabbage, cut in small wedges 1. Soak meat in cold water to cover ½ hour or longer, esp. if deeply corned. Place large sheet of heavy duty foil on a roasting pan. 2. Pat meat dry, place in center of foil, creating a bowl to hold meat and juices. Pour 4 oz stout over meat, sprinkle spices over top. 3. Put orange slices over and around meat. Scatter Onions, Carrots, and Celery over top then fold and seal foil so liquid and steam cannot escape. 4. Bake at 350F for 4 hours. Carefully open foil, saving juices, and remove meat to a plate. Add potatoes and simmer in juices 10-15 minutes until barely tender. 5. Add cabbage wedges and cook all 10 minutes longer, or until cabbage is done as desired. Remove vegetables to serving bowl and return meat to juices. Reheat meat and serve. You can also prepare this in a crock-pot. Foil is not required, and cook 11-12 hours on low. — Lyle Brown
HUMOR
Yoga Mats and Macho Men Stretching the limits of my marriage
I
love my yoga class. One day, however, I made the mistake of inviting my husband. I had to coax him into going, and he spent the entire first class acting like he wanted to be somewhere else. It didn’t help that his racquetball buddies made faces at him through the window. After the first class, I didn't think my husband would return, but he did. You should know that my husband is a big man. He's not really tall, nor is he a fat man, but he has massive shoulders. And a really cute butt, which my yoga classmates seemed to notice. My husband played football and wrestled in high school and college, so he was naturally athletic. As such, it didn't take him long to "get into" the poses we learned in class. As it turned out, he was more comfortable performing some of them than I was! He astounded both the instructor and the other ladies by lying on the floor face down, reaching back and grabbing his ankles. I don't know what the pose is called, but I can't do it. I do know that he became quite the spectacle— this big, burly man contorting his body like a yoga expert. In no time, we were bringing his best friend with us. This is a guy so shy, he still has a hard time talking to me … and I've known him for years. The prospect of seeing women in compromising positions, though, is what lured him in. He would try to remain in the back of the room, but we'd drag him front and center with us. He never did get very good at the poses, but I am pretty sure he was too distracted to care. So as it turned out, my yoga class wasn't mine anymore. If my husband didn't show up for a session, I'd be peppered with questions about where he was and told how lucky I was to have such a great husband. Several of the other women even began to drag their husbands in. There were two other big men, and though they were not as limber as my husband,
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they were real gamers, trying all the poses and having fun. Eventually, the class started to get really crowded, which thrilled the instructor. My yoga instructor was a very casual, somewhat lenient, woman. She wasn't concerned that you did the pose perfectly, as long as you did it to your best ability. She was not what you'd expect a yoga instructor to look like, either. (She was a bit on the heavy side). She was very good, though, and could get into positions you wouldn't expect from a bigger woman. Unfortunately, she became ill, and we began to have substitute instructors. When the first substitute entered the room, the men all gasped. Lithe, lean and limber, this instructor glided to the front of the room and put us through a series of torturous poses that had most of us crying. The men hated her. The women, while secretly enjoying their hatred, wanted to kill the skinny chick. The next instructor was 105 years old. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not kidding. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m convinced she spent time in a Soviet Gulag torturing prisoners by twisting their bodies until their organs disintegrated. She would put us into a pose, then change her mind and have us do something else. And then she would scream at us in an accent I didn't understand. I felt compelled to confess a crime I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t commit! By the time our original instructor felt better and returned to the class, half of the attendees and all of them men had dropped out. My husband and his friend used a racquetball tournament as their excuse. Once in awhile, a husband or two would show up for Saturday class, but then it would return to being oddly quiet. No one snored during meditation, women didn't have to worry about having their bottom in some strange guy's faceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; things were back to normal. It was my yoga class again. Honestly though, I kind of miss those women checking out my husband's butt. Eat your heart out, ladies!
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MARCH / APRIL 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 27
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BackYard
HOMEGROWN
A Room To Grow Extend your gardening pleasures throughout the year
A
t some point in their lives, most gardeners dream of having their own backyard greenhouse. Just saying the words “backyard greenhouse” to a gardener gets a starry-eyed, “Oh, I’d love to have a greenhouse!” reaction, followed by a litany of plant selections as they dream of all the things they could grow. Having a backyard greenhouse doesn’t have to be just a dream— it can become a reality. Greenhouses provide a location for over-wintering temperate outdoor plants, starting new seedlings in the spring, rooting new cuttings, as well as growing plant collections and edible food crops throughout the year. Though the word greenhouse may elicit thoughts of additional expenses, backyard greenhouses can range from an inexpensive structure of $100-$300 to a stateof-the art engineering feat that costs thousands. It might even be as simple as PVC pipe covered in plastic with a small heating source and ventilation, or a permanent structure made out of glass and metal. Sizes may range from 6 feet x 8 feet to 20 feet x 50 feet. There are numerous designs, instructional guides and kits available for the do-it-yourself weekend warrior. For gardeners with deeper pockets, there are companies that will come to your site and install a complete state-of-the-art greenhouse. No matter the scale, the basic principles are the same. There’s some sort of supporting structure that’s metal, wood or plastic, and it’s covered in glass or some variation of plastic or fiberglass that can be heated and preferably cooled to some extent. The idea is to provide a suitable climate for growing plants that can’t be grown outdoors at the time. Greenhouses can be free-standing structures or lean-
tos attached to a home. A sun room can also serve as a greenhouse. The greenhouse cover functions to allow sunlight through and to trap and hold heat. Materials used as greenhouse coverings vary in their efficiency to retain heat. Glass is the most efficient, but the most costly. In many cases, a double layer of poly-film (plastic) with an insulating air gap between the two layers will be the most cost-effective. The selection of the covering is also going to depend on how the greenhouse will be used. If a sun room is added on to the house or the greenhouse will be used yearround, some form of glass or fiberglass is preferred and a heating system will be needed. Some gardeners use solar heat to warm the greenhouse with black drums filled with water. The sunlight warms the water, which in turn warms the house. For really cold days and nights, supplemental heating would also be needed for temperate plants. Other than solar heat, electric or gas would be preferred in the backyard greenhouse. If the greenhouse is used more as a season-extender, poly-film is the most economical. Ventilation is needed, but the heating and cooling system will not have to be as extensive. Ventilation may mean the ability to roll up the sides of the greenhouse or open up windows. It may be as simple as a window cut out of the plastic on three sides so that it can be rolled up on bright, warm days and kept closed on cloudy evenings. Small ventilation fans with a louvered window on the end of the house can be installed at minimal expense. This would be a necessity if you’re not home in the day to manually open or close vents. Otherwise, you’ll have toasted plants. When selecting a greenhouse site, a level, welldrained area is preferred. For growing food plants or
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producing transplants, a location with full sun is preferred. If the house will be used for rooting cuttings, a partially shaded location would work, preferably shaded by deciduous trees so that there’s still plenty of light in winter. The site should also have good air drainage, so avoid low areas. Water and electricity should be easily accessible to the site, as well. In addition to the other components mentioned, some type of flooring will be desired. At a minimum, the floor should be free of weeds or other plant debris and welldrained. Permanent greenhouse structures typically have a concrete floor. For the backyard, I’d suggest gravel or a heavy landscape fabric that allows water to penetrate. To get plants up off the ground, benches will be helpful, though not always required. These can be made out of a frame with wire, wooden slates or other plastic materials. Regardless of the material used, they should not hold soil or other debris and water should drain off quickly. Puddling water or build-up of soil encourages disease problems for plants. For gardeners looking to grow more of their own food in the backyard, consider a high tunnel. It’s essentially a poly-covered structure without flooring so the vegetables are grown directly in the ground. It’s ventilated by rolling up the sides. If it’s located in a sunny location, the ground will help to retain heat through the night and on cloudy days. This works with warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers or cucumbers, as well as cool-season crops like lettuce, kale, broccoli, radishes and snap peas. Just remember: The soil needs to be well-drained and free of perennial weeds like wire grass (Bermuda grass). It’s important to note that before you invest in your dream greenhouse, some structures will require a building permit. Make sure you find out what’s permitted in your locality, as well as what’s allowed by your homeowner’s association, if you have one. There are numerous resources for additional information on backyard greenhouses, including the Resources for Greenhouse and Nursery Operations and Operators on the Virginia Cooperative Extension Web site: www. ext.vt.edu/pubs/greenhouse/430-104/430-104.html. A handy book you may find at your local library is “Greenhouses for Homeowners and Gardeners,” by the Natural Resource, Agriculture and Engineers Service (NRAES) Cooperative Extension. This book is available for purchase online at www.nraes.org. For more information, visit The Hobby Greenhouse Association’s Web site at www.hobbygreenhouse.org.
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F A M I LY F U N
A Gilded-Age Treasure Richmond’s Maymont Park is an experience the entire family will enjoy
H
istory, habitats and horticulture— the ingredients of a gorgeous setting in one of the country’s most celebrated cities: Maymont of Richmond. With one hundred acres of natural beauty and enough local culture to fill a history book, this is one side of Richmond you may not be aware of. Hidden among the urban segments of Virginia’s capital, Maymont is a community-cherished, Victorian estate known for its illustrious design and elegant setting. The elaborate, Gilded-age property sits high above the James River, affording visitors near and far a chance to peer across the beautiful water. As a whole, the plantation contains a historic house-museum known as Maymont Mansion, stunning formal gardens and numerous native wildlife exhibits. What’s more, this family-friendly destination offers a nature center, carriage collection and a petting zoo called “The Maymont Children’s Farm.” For Decades, Maymont has been a fixture in the community, thanks to its beauty and the many amenities it offers; however, it didn’t start out that way. It all began in 1886 when James Dooley, a wealthy lawyer and philanthropist, and his wife, Sallie, bought farmland on the banks of the tranquil James River. The successful couple envisioned building a new home set against a gorgeous, natural backdrop. With the help of noted Roman architect Edgerton Stewart Rogers, they combined a Romanesque Revival style with a picturesque Queen Anne style and came up with
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concept for the estate. Seven years later, the Dooleys were living in a 12,000 square-foot, 33-room new home. They named their illustrious residence “May Mont,” which combines Mrs. Dooley’s maiden name and the French word for hill. When the Dooleys passed away, the architectural complex, 100-acre landscape and a collection of furnishings was left to the citizens of Richmond, folks who understood the importance of preserving historic beauty. Soon after, the house was open to the public as a museum. In the following 75 years, more and more attractions were added by the community, and this extensive conservation and restoration process greatly enhanced the estate’s authenticity, condition and overall presentation. Today, Maymont is overseen by the Dooley Noted Society, a professional group that supports the estate through the cultivation of social, fundraising and volunteering activities. It’s their job to ensure the sprawling estate maintains its luster and popular amenities. One of the most popular aspects of this famous estate is the well-maintained gardens, namely the Italian and Japanese gardens, each pruned and picked with perfection. There’s also a giant koi pond and waterfall that falls from the terrace, along with an extensive rose garden that precedes the waterfall. Visitors eager to relax and take in the beauty of their environment can do so in the comfort of several gazebos places around the setting. When it’s time to move on, guests can visit the extensive arboretum, which
From left: Will Williams Photo, Tracey Crehan Gerlach Photo
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Clockwise from left: Friendly members of the petting zoo welcome committee, the Maymont mansion, the Italian West Pergola at sunset, children learn with hands-on experiences.
dates back to the early-20th century and contains more than 200 species of trees and plants. These visual perks, and many others, combine to make this place perfect setting for outdoor weddings and other special occasions. For the zoologist in us all, Maymont is the perfect place to get up close and personal with local and exotic animals. Outside of the standard farm animals available at the children’s petting zoo, the estate is home to several other creatures native to the region. If you’re looking to take the family to a diverse destination that offers education, entertainment and a ton of history, you can’t go wrong with Maymont. This spring, forget spending a lot of time and money on an exotic vacation or driving long hours to and from museums— Maymont offers the entire package with “Spring Break at Maymont”, During April 6-10, visitors can enjoy dozens of fun programs and free music as well as moon bounces, carriage rides, hay rides, the petting pasture and the 4th annual VCU Tree Skirt Exhibition. These are just one of many amazing things to experience at Maymont. Maymont's grounds are admission-free, but donations are requested in many of their indoor exhibits. To learn more about Maymont, or to preview their upcoming events, visit www.maymont.org. — Nicholas Addison Thomas
Top: Jay Paul Photo, Bottom: Todd Smity Photo
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OUTDOORS
Hitting The Hot Spots The Fishing Fanatic’s Guide to Local Fisheries
I
f you’re an angler, being a resident of the Fredericksburg region has its benefits. Take a look at a regional map and you’ll note more lakes, ponds, rivers and tidal creeks than you can count. You really can’t walk more than a half mile in one direction without getting your feet— or fishing line—wet. With scant free time, sometimes painful fuel prices and a limited number of options available, many anglers want to get right to the best fisheries. Having someone figure out the best destinations for a fishing trip is helpful. What follows is a “Good Neighbor Guide to Greatness” among area fisheries that should get you started on the right foot. Lake Anna This is the region’s largest lake, offering visitors 225 miles of shoreline to explore and hundreds of coves with clear, clean water. Better yet, there are no horsepower restrictions and public access boat ramps in all corners. Lake Anna has good largemouth bass fishing that draws tournament anglers from all over the northeast. The striper fishery (landlocked rockfish) is also a draw with fish up to 20 pounds caught each year. Visiting anglers also enjoy excellent crappie and bluegill fishing. While weekday visitors often feel like they have the lake to themselves, the weekends can be busy. Heavy fishing pressure and a fun factor that can be affected by boat traffic are certainly to be considered when planning a trip.
While you probably won’t catch an eight-pound bass from the Potomac, it does have excellent numbers of threeto five-pound fish. If you’re not a bass fisherman, the river holds other bounty, including white perch, crappie, rockfish and catfish. Rappahannock River Ah, the Rappahannock, also known as “The Rivah” to many area fishing and boating enthusiasts. This smaller, slightly more southward cousin to the Potomac flows right through Fredericksburg. At the fall line, it becomes tidal and loses its hard-charging character. From here on down, “the Rapp” has a decidedly more bucolic outlook as it flows slowly through farm country. Bass fishing is what draws most anglers to this river, though in recent years fishing for large blue catfish has become popular. As with
Potomac River Many of the area’s bass anglers consider the tidal Potomac their favorite fishery. With thousands of acres of creeks and bays teeming with fish, it’s not difficult to understand why. Since the Potomac is tidally influenced, learning to fish the daily tide change is critical. Also, finding fishy-looking structure is easy. Determining when the fish are there and when they are biting is the trick. Large expanses of aquatic vegetation in the form of milfoil, hydrilla and emergent plants, like arrowhead and lily pads, make the fun factor high on the Potomac. You can use just about any lure in your tacklebox, including those awesome top-water frogs. Access to the Potomac is fair, with ramps scattered along the river and concentrated in tributaries like Aquia Creek. You will want to arrive early, as parking spaces are quickly filled. Thankfully, since the river is so expansive, you will rarely feel overcrowded, even on a weekend. 32 www.VaNeighbors.com
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ing opportunities for those without a boat. It is rarely considered crowded and you never hear the roar of boats. Your fun factor is high, because not only does Hunting Run harbor a healthy, young ecosystem, but it also has hydrilla weed beds and standing timber for fishing.
many tidal rivers, the bass do not get much bigger than six pounds, but the catfish often exceed the 50-pound mark. The Rapp has very little submerged aquatic vegetation and few lily pads. Instead, you will be tossing your offerings to hard structure in the form of stumps, tree laps, duck blinds and creek mouths. A small crankbait and a Texas-rigged, red-shad ringworm are two lures favored by the locals. Access to the Rapp is possible via several widely spaced ramps. The most popular is Hicks Landing on Route 17 near the Rappahannock Academy. Hunting Run Reservoir After being stocked and managed by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) for two years, Hunting Run opened in 2007 to the public. At 430 acres, the region’s newest fishery is still teeming with largemouth bass, crappie and bluegill. Access is gained at the upper end of the lake (not far off of Route 3 on Ely’s Ford Road), where visitors will find a concrete boat ramp and boat-rental concession run by Spotsylvania County. A daily permit (that can be purchased on site) is required to fish at Hunting Run, in addition to the standard Virginia fishing license. You may launch a full-sized fishing rig, but you cannot use a gasoline-powered outboard. This lake offers ample shoreline fish-
Upper Rappahannock If canoeing and kayaking is your thing, you’ll want to plan a trip on the upper Rappahannock River. Here, the brown bass is king and can be found in the many fast-flowing riffles and calm pools of this rock-strewn fishery. In addition to smallmouth bass, the upper Rapp has “red eyes” or rock bass and plenty of sunfish species. Even if you don’t take a cast, a float trip down the river is a rewarding adventure. Most folks access the upper Rappahannock at either Ely’s Ford, Kelly’s Ford, the Rappahannock River Campground or Mott’s Run. Also, there are several delivery services that can outfit you for a trip, dropping you off and picking you up in furnished craft. You’ll find these stretches of the Rapp nearly deserted on the weekdays, but expect some canoeists and kayakers on the weekends. Bowler’s Mill Find this little jewel tucked in northwestern Louisa County and you’ll be thrilled with its remoteness and good fishing. At 75 acres, it’s perfect for the small-boat or kayak angler. There is an unimproved, gravel ramp that you can launch a big rig from, but a 4x4 is recommended. Also, only electric motors are permitted. Once on the water, you’ll find lily pads, stumps and beaver huts harboring plenty of largemouth bass, crappie and bluegill. These are perfects places to cast toward. You’ll need a permit to fish Bowler’s Mill. Permits are available from Louisa County or Carterfield’s Sporting Goods. Lake Pelham This 225-acre fishery is a water supply
reservoir for the Town of Culpeper. The shores around Pelham are forested and open with sloped banks and some residential homes. While not known for outstanding bass fishing, this lake is full of channel catfish. In fact, according to the VDGIF, there are more catfish per acre than any other lake in the region. Visitors can also expect to catch largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, yellow perch and pumpkinseed. There is a shallow draft, public ramp on Henretty Drive off of Mountain Run Road (Route 718) from Route 29 south of Culpeper. There is no bank fishing access and only electric motors are allowed. A permit is required to fish Pelham and. Permits are sold during weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the following address: The Treasurer, 400 South Main Street, Suite 109, Culpeper, VA 22701
Motts Run Reservoir Families that enjoy fishing will want to try Motts Run Reservoir, located in Spotsylvania County. Excellent facilities, such as boat rentals, a boat ramp, fishing piers and shoreline picnic areas make visiting Motts a pleasure. The lake (HOT SPOTS continued on page 63)
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HOMEKEEEPING
Seasonal Flower Arranging Brighten your home with a changeable, indoor spring floral basket
M
aking a spring floral arrangement or indoor garden makes economic sense and can be a fun, easierthan-you-think project, if you yearn for organic home dĂŠcor. These displays can rival something found on the slick page of a home decorating magazine or on the cobblestone patio of a European restaurant. Although they can have the finished look of something created by a floral designer, these eye-catching home accents can be put together by someone who has never known the satisfaction of planting a seed and watching a seedling emerge from the soil. In addition, the displays can be prepared and kept indoors, so those of us who avoid outdoor gardening, due to our aversion to bugs, can derive pleasure in creating something both stunning and alive. Floral and grass arrangements can be used for their aesthetic value in your home, or they can serve as thoughtful springtime gifts. Grass-only baskets have functional value. Instead of filling baskets with commercial Easter grass, consider nesting your colored eggs and candy on a bed of real grass. Pet owners, who purchase pots of grass for the petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s consumption, can enjoy the convenience and cost effectiveness of growing their own patch of indoor grass for their animals to munch on. And finally, preparing the arrangement can be a fun educational project for children. 34 www.VaNeighbors.com
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Purchasing predesigned floral and grass arrangements can cost anywhere from$40 to more than $100, with most arrangements running about $70. The costs you will incur for your homemade basket will be significantly less. Items needed for this project include a basket with a plastic liner or a container made of ceramic or metal, preferably with no drainage holes. (This is a good way to recycle metal gift baskets filled with bath products or food gifts.) You need enough potting soil to fill the basket and enough lawn grass seed, or wheat seed to cover the top of the potting soil.
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You also need plastic pots with drainage holes, or empty cottage cheese or yogurt containers with holes punched in the bottom. These containers will serve as wells that will hold small potted plants or vases filled with flowers. And finally, you will need a spray water bottle and enough plastic wrap to cover the top of the basket. The lawn grass seed (fescue) can be purchased at any store that stocks lawn and garden supplies. The wheat seed can be purchased from any store that carries farm seeds. Carolyn Helfrich of Fredericksburg, a floral and landscape designer, who designed this project, prefers using the wheat. She says it does not wilt as fast as the fescue grass and she likes the look of its wider blade. To prepare the basket for growing the grass, pour the soil into the basket, filling it halfway. Then, arrange the pots that will serve as wells in the basket, leaving ample space between them and the edges of the basket. Burrow the pots into the soil so their tops are level with the edge of the basket. Continue pouring soil around the pots until it is even with the basket edge. Spread a layer of grass seed over the top of the soil. Gently press the seed to the soil. If you are using barley seed, cover the layer of seeds with a thin layer of potting soil. Spray the seeds well with water. Then, cover the basket loosely with plastic wrap. Place the basket in a warm sunny spot and keep the seeds moist by misting them twice a day using the spray bottle. Keep in mind that too dry seeds won’t germinate and too wet seeds can rot. Once the seedlings sprout, showing green color, remove the plastic wrap, but continue to mist the grass to keep it moist. Add your plants and flowers after the grass has grown. This takes about one to two weeks. Place the potted plants or vases filled with flowers inside your pot wells. With the wells in place, you can replace faded flowers for fresh ones or change the look of your arrangement by adding a different selection of flowers or plants. You can design an arrangement that uses one kind of plant or flower in each well or you can create a mix. Choose the plants and flowers that you want. Be creative, says Helfrich. Her suggestions are daffodils, tulips, spray roses or heather. Plants such as primrose, pansies or ivy will last longer than fresh flowers. Sticking Pussy Willow or Curly Willow branches into your soil will add height and interest. And, if you leave them in long enough, they will grow roots. Use moss to cover bare spots on the grass or consider edging your basket with moss. For maintenance, “mow” your grass with a pair of scissors, trimming only one third off the top at a time. Water your grass and plants when they feel dry to the touch. The need will vary based on the temperature and amount of light the greenery receives. “Once you get the grass growing,” said Helfrich, “I hope it will spark your creativity to keep your garden ever-changing.” — Kathy Lewis
Floral & Landscape Design Unique floral arrangements for parties or weddings. Personalized landscape designs and seasonal container gardens. How-to lectures and workshops. Enchanting gardens especially for children.
540�371�5461
828 Marye Street, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401
www.carolynhelfrichinc.com
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The museum’s Shenandoah Valley Gallery exhibitions include two recreations of Valley kitchens.
T R AV E L
Oh, Shenandoah! The Valley of Virginia Beckons
T
he Shenandoah Valley is a place both storied and historic in Virginia lore, and until recently, no single place brought together the broad scope of its diversity into a single story. The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley in Winchester does just that, weaving together the threads of the Valley’s history, culture and commerce in one enjoyable and enlightening experience. For residents of the Fredericksburg area, the museum complex, just west of historic downtown Winchester, makes for either a pleasant day trip or a memorable weekend. There are three primary parts to this complex: historic Glen Burnie House; the six-acre, formal gardens surrounding it and the centerpiece; and the striking, recently opened museum behind them on the site they share. The house and gardens are open March through November, but the museum, designed by acclaimed architect Michael Graves, is open year-round. And it is there that visitors can gain an appreciation of the Shenandoah Valley story, its settlement and development. Those who grow up and spend their lives oriented to the eastern part of the state may be only generally aware of this “other Virginia.” Here, in a valley stretching some 150 by 25 miles— from Harpers Ferry to Lexington— thousands of 18th-century Scotch-Irish and German settlers traveled down the valley in search of a better life in a new land. In 1744, James Wood, who had been given a 1,200-acre land grant in the upper valley, parceled out 30 lots for a town near the new home he had built. The community that took root there became known as Frederick Town— later Winchester— and was the first English city in the Shenandoah Valley. The Glen Burnie House on the site today was built in 1794 by Robert Wood, and it remained in the Wood and Glass families for more than two centuries. The twenty-million-dollar museum, which opened in the spring of 2005, offers a wide range of exhibits and displays to tell the story of the Valley, its history and culture. The 50,000-square-foot structure features 11 rooms in four main galleries, utilizing a combination of media to relate the
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narrative of the valley and its peoples. In addition to the impressive permanent collections, several rooms are set aside for changing exhibitions. Until May 10, this gallery houses “Jed Hotchkiss: Shenandoah Valley Mapmaker.” It is an account of the life and achievements of a former schoolmaster who taught himself mapmaking and became one of the most outstanding cartographers of the Civil War. Hotchkiss, who served on the staff of Gen. Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, gained renown far outside the Valley and the Confederacy. After the war’s conclusion, Union Gen. Ulysses S. Grant sent emissaries to call on Hotchkiss and demand his maps. Hotchkiss, who continued as a topographic engineer after the war, refused. Elsewhere in the exhibitions section of the museum, the Shenandoah Valley Galleries explore the full sweep of the region’s history, including a detailed look at the Civil War battles that ravaged the region. Additional rooms provide views and insight into the decorative arts of the area in its more than 250 years of European-American settlement. Further collections include the Julian Wood Glass Jr. Gallery, an extensive display of furniture, paintings and other items. The R. Lee Taylor Miniatures Gallery brings together a collection of furnished miniature houses, rooms and artifacts. In addition to the museum’s exhibit galleries, a wide range of related events is scheduled during the year. For
Photo courtesy of The Museum of the Shenandoah
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example, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on May 8, two days prior to the closing of the Hotchkiss exhibit, costumed re-enactors will portray talks between the mapmaker and Stonewall Jackson in the gallery featuring the Hotchkiss exhibition. While display galleries are confined to the museum’s second floor, the first floor features an entrance lobby, reception hall, learning center, tea room and cafe with outdoor patio, and a museum store. If you and your family are looking for a close-up encounter of local history, then The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley is the place to be. The museum is open year-round, and the Glen Burnie House and gardens is open from March through November. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday only. The entire complex is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and day, as well as New Year’s Eve and day. Admission is $12 for a combination ticket to all facilities, or $10 for just the museum. Youths, seniors and large groups (10 or more) receive a discount. For more information, you can call 540.662.1473 or toll free at 888.556.5799, or visit their Web site at www.shenandoahmuseum.org.
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Driving directions: The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley is located at 901 Amherst St. in Winchester. From Fredericksburg, there are several ways to reach the museum. The simplest route is to drive to Warrenton via U.S. 17, then northward to I-66, just before reaching Marshall. Taking I-66 West, continue to I-81, then drive north on I-81 to exit 310. Turn left after exiting, taking route 37 to US 50 (Amherst Street). Turn right on US50/Amherst Street and continue for one mile to the entrance road on the right. Using this route, the distance from downtown Fredericksburg to the museum is about 82 miles, and it should take less than two hours.
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Horticultural
Heroes
With her sunny smile and contagious laugh, Sara Broyles leads a group of volunteers that care for the historical gardens at Chatham Manor... one happy rosebud at a time. by Nicholas Addison Thomas
Joe Ruedi of the National Park Service and Master Gardener Sara Broyles enjoy their work and the comraderie of those volunteers who join them weekly to weed, dead-head, and prune Chathamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic gardens. 40 www.VaNeighbors.com
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Jamie Haverkamp Photo
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T
here's a special connection that exists between mankind and Mother Nature. Anyone who has tended to backyard gardens or nurseries can attest to that. There's just something magical about planting your hands in the earth's soil and letting the detritus of history flow through your fingers. It's even more rewarding when you can use that passion for all-things plants to help improve the aesthetics of your community.
Just ask Sara Broyles, volunteer coordinator for the historic gardens at Fredericksburg’s Chatham Manor. “There’s no better feeling than knowing you’re playing a role in something bigger than yourself; that you’re improving a part of your neighborhood that touches many people,” said Broyles. Chatham Manor, one of the region’s more prominent landmarks, was built between 1768 and 1771 by William Fitzhugh. Affixed on a high ridge overlooking the Rappahannock River, the Georgian-style mansion has played an integral role in local history. It was a flourishing plantation until the Civil War, when it was used by Union troops as a headquarters and hospital. Afterward, Chatham fell on hard times typical of large plantations in that day. It passed through a series of owners, with land parcels being sold off until it consisted of 30 acres, a fraction of the 1,288 acres it had originally been. In 1920, Chatham was bought by Helen
and Col. Daniel Devore, who endeavored to restore the historic structure to its colonial roots. They hired Ellen Shipman, a well-known landscape architect from New England, to put in a Colonial Revival garden where a cornfield had been. Shipman liked to keep the plan simple, using lush, herbaceous borders, often in a color scheme of blues, whites, yellows and pinks. The Devores were pleased to share their beautiful garden, and, much like today, it was often included in garden tours and featured in magazines. In 1931, Chatham was sold to John Lee Pratt, who, in the mid-1950s, simplified the gardens by removing the labor-intensive perennial beds and adding more boxwood. Before he passed away, he willed the property to the National Park Service. Since then, Chatham Manor has been an official part of the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park. Thankfully, the significance of the Shipman garden was not lost on them. In 1984, an interpretive
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Chatham Manor is the largest National Park Service garden in Virginia, and Sara is always happy to welcome new volunteers.
Top: Jamie Haverkamp Photo; Bottom: Mike Fairbanks Photo
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Clockwise from top left: Donald Saucier Photo, Eric Grossman Photo, Walker Broyles Photo, Donald Saucier Photo, Walker Broyles Photo
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“It’s wonderful! I get to make a mark in a place I love.” restoration of the garden was held, and it is this garden that Broyles and her fellow volunteers now maintain. “We still have plans from the garden Shipman created in the 1920s, as well as some pictures and descriptions from magazine articles of that time,” said Broyles. “We are working to re-introduce some of the plants she had. Sometimes this is easy, other times it’s pretty tough. We hope to someday have it back to its true form.” Broyles and her team of volunteers are dedicated supporters of Virginia’s Master Gardener’s Program. A member since 2003, Broyles has found a new role in the community since her retirement; a role that affords her, and others like her, an opportunity to give back to the region through their love of horticulture. Much like the vibrant garden they tend, the Master Gardener’s Program is rooted in history. The Master Gardener’s Program was created in 1972 with the intention of recruiting volunteers to help communities answer their public’s horticultural needs. Master Gardeners are volunteers for the Cooperative Extension Service (CES), a nationwide, non-credit, educational network that has offices in every state. These offices are staffed by one or more experts who provide useful, practical and research-based information to agricultural producers, small business owners, youth, consumers and others in respective neighborhoods. To become a Master Gardener in Virginia, one must complete the training program conducted by a Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) agent, pass an examination and volunteer a minimum of 50 hours per year through a local VCE office. The Program is open to anyone interested in gardening, regardless of their experience or ability. The only necessary requirement is the willingness to
learn and then share that knowledge with the public. After passing the required course— which occurs in the fall in the Fredericksburg area— participants get to volunteer their gardening skills and apply their newfound knowledge. “I had heard of the program after attending local ‘First Saturday in the Garden’ sessions,” said Broyles. “After retiring, I took the Master Gardener Course and learned of the numerous volunteer opportunities available. Chatham Manor is close to my home, and I already knew one of the volunteers working there, so it worked out perfectly. It’s wonderful! I get to make a mark in a place I love.” Like her peers, Broyles is adamant about improving the Fredericksburg community. She and other volunteers often spend time volunteering at plant clinics, offering educational programs to the public and maintaining other historic gardens for the public's viewing pleasure. The goal of these initiatives is to help people put researchbased knowledge to work for economic prosperity, environmental stewardship and an improved quality of life. And then there’s the desire to emphasize the beauty of Fredericksburg, namely Chatham Manor. As Master Gardeners, the local volunteers help the National Park Service employees maintain the grounds and gardens of Chatham Manor. This can last a few hours, or sometimes, the better half of a day. It’s an arduous job that requires a strict attention to detail, a love for all things horticulture and
Opposite page, clockwise from top left: The air is filled with a sweet scent when the roses bloom at Chatham, early 20th-century sculpture adorns much of the grounds, Paulette Watson pauses from her task, early season flowers are a welcome sight, Ruth Ellen Richardson filling her container with weeds. At right: Joe Ruedi displays a 19th-century style lawnmower.
Jamie Haverkamp Photo
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a commitment to teamwork. And yet, it offers innumerable rewards in the form of exercise, confidence-building and meeting new people. “This is a great opportunity to meet and work with others with similar interests, forge strong friendships and get a lot of satisfying work done,” said Broyles, who says her favorite part of volunteering is the camaraderie. “There is a sense of satisfaction in accomplishing a job well done, even if the jobs never seem to be finished. Being able to see the garden improve as new plants come into bloom is a delight.” When the volunteers arrive in the morning, they begin the day by working together on a single large task—like getting flats of pansies or petunias planted—or they break up individually and tend to their favorite responsibilities. Some prefer to deadhead spent roses, rip weeds and Bermuda grass out of beds or trim bushes. One man in particular likes to tackle overgrown vines, chopping and pulling them out of the trees just beyond the garden walls. “We are usually working in the perennial borders and rose beds of the walled garden, although sometimes we tend to the boxwood hedges on the riverside of the house, or we help prune the grapevines near the entrance area,” said Broyles. “We each have tasks to do, and the challenge is that there is always more to do than ever gets done!” While it is rewarding detailing a historic garden for the viewing pleasure of the entire community, it’s also a time-consuming responsibility. Each task, no matter how small, requires immeasurable. For the vol-
unteers, though, it’s worth it because each assignment adds value to the landscape. In many respects, these Master Gardeners are the region’s own green-thumb, education brigade, teaching the art of planting, pruning and pulling to achieve perfection. According to Broyles, the most challenging part of the job is keeping the garden true to Ellen Shipman's vision. “We’re experimenting with substitutes that are easier but still in keeping with the look Shipman would have wanted. Of course, this is done on a budget, so we start some plants from seed and order plants and flowers in small numbers and sizes,” said Broyles. “If a plant does well, we can divide it and plant in another part of the garden. If it dies, we try something else.” It’s this approach that has helped the gardens of Chatham Manor spring to life in the past few years. By working long hours upgrading and maintaining the historic landscape, the Master Gardeners are working to restore a look and feel that’s been lost for decades. More importantly, they’ve been able to provide the community with a glimpse into local history. Through teamwork and a collective desire to improve their community, the volunteers serve as proof that a little love goes a long way. “There is something at Chatham for every volunteer,” said Broyles. “Chatham is simply a beautiful, peaceful place to be, seemingly far away from everyday noise and cares. Places like this need to be maintained so that others can appreciate it as much as we do.” d
Chatham is always looking for more volunteers to work in their gardens. Anyone who loves to garden is welcome to join the other volunteers. Master Gardeners Program meetings, sponsored by MGACRA, occur on the third Wednesday evening of every month. For more information about the program and volunteering opportunities in Fredericksburg, visit www.mgacra.org. To learn more about the gardens of Chatham Manor, visit www.nps.gov/frsp/chatham.htm. 44 www.VaNeighbors.com
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Mike Fairbanks Photo
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Clockwise from far left: Autumn Joy sedum in bloom, roses climbing along the walls, Chatham volunteers (from left to right) Sara Broyles, Caroline Zimmerman, Carolyn Taylor, Jean Johnson, Melanie Ringer, Maggie Hall, NPS employee, and Jean Ravinsky.
Walker Broyles Photo
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WHEN THE
RUBBER HITS THE ROAD One look at Bill Evans and you can tell he lives, breathes and burns for biking. Like a mighty handshake or a confident gait, it's a distinctive part of who he is. Some folks find happiness collecting stamps or rare coinsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Bill rides 72 miles in 17-degree weather in a single sitting. If exercise is his love, then biking is his crush. 46 48 www.VaNeighbors.com
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by Nicholas Addison Thomas photography by Jamie Haverkamp MARCH / APRIL 2009 JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 | VIRGINIA VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS NEIGHBORS 47 49
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Bill talks about racing the way an artist
explains the ebb and flow of colors on canvas. Sitting there, you’re invested in his desire, watching his eyes light up like beacons, until you find yourself reaching a definitive conclusion: This man's bike is his instrument and the open road his muse. And to think, it all happened on a whim.
Bill Evans didn't start out as a bike racer. It wasn't like he pined for competitive racing between lunch breaks at Spotsylvania High School or classes at Virginia Commonwealth University. It was more of a fateful thing, like finding true love. You could even say that biking found him. Fresh out of college in 1994, Bill enlisted in the Air Force, eager to explore the world and learn more about himself in the process. While there, he adopted the discipline and structure he now applies to his life and work. After six years of service, he decided to leave the military and pursue other avenues of business. It just so happened bike racing was on his path to get there. "When I got out of the military, I was looking to do something new in terms of exercise. A few of my friends purchased mountain bikes, so I bought an old one and did one or two rides," said Evans. "As it turned out, there was a race that weekend, and I wound up finishing seventh out of a hundred riders. I never once switched gears, and I had a twenty-one-speed mountain bike at the time." That unexpected win stoked Bill's competitive spirit. Thanks to the extreme health value of the sport, combined with a chance to compete against top-notch athletes, Bill became hooked on mountain bike racing. Over the next few years, he evolved into a regional professional, improving his agility and performance in local and national races. Today, he's an integral part of the road racing
scene, actively participating in time trials, criteriums, grand prix racing and cycle-cross. It’s an arduous, yet rewarding, lifestyle that keeps Bill at the top of his game. "To be a competitive cyclist, it's a complete lifestyle. You need to make sure you're maximizing everything, doing things that no one else is doing and training harder than everyone else. That's what keeps driving me out of bed when everyone else is sleeping in," said Evans. "The more you compete, the more you need to train and the more rewards you receive. It's a cycle that builds on itself." While it may seem easy from a plush-couch perspective, bike racing is a tremendously complex sport. During a competition, a rider must be cognizant of the wattage he produces, unexpected headwinds and tailwinds, the aerodynamics of his clothing and much more. Every part of his bike, every motion of his body—a simple itch can lose him seconds—affects his overall time and performance. This is a sport that builds confidence, strength and skills; one that requires a strict command of the body and mind, as well as an unrelenting desire to succeed the second rubber hits road. "What many people don't realize is that bike racing involves a huge amount of upper body strength,
Bill shares a laugh with teammate Steve Norair while gearing up for a midweek training session. MARCH / APRIL 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 49
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and your cardiovascular system is absolutely maxed out. So although you're spinning the legs, you're maintaining a position on the bicycle, which is all core," said Evans. "Strength-to-weight ratio and total body strength is everything. That's what keeps you going in this sport." During the road-racing season— which is primarily in the spring— Bill stays fit and focused by training 13-15 hours a week. To fuel his exercise goals, he consumes 5,600 calories a day by eating seven to eight small meals, which largely consists of fruits, vegetables and protein-heavy nourishments. There’s no room for lethargy; his body must be in superior shape to ensure it can handle the extreme rigors of competition. Sticking to a specific regiment helps Bill and his teammates compete in roughly 45 races a year. Bill belongs to Bike Works Racing Team, a locally sponsored group of nine riders, eight of whom race competitively. All together, Bike Works has several state champions and medalists on its roster. And though they're the smallest racing team in Virginia, they more than make up for it with their serious work ethic. Three weeks before every race, they look for an edge on the competition. The riders find an identical course and analyze the landscape, research what speeds they need to take at every corner, decide when they should be attacking and build a definitive game plan. This team methodology has proven successful: Bike Works has won 11 out of 80 races in the past two years. That’s an astounding feat considering they typically compete against 100 riders. “Biking is one of the biggest team sports out there. When people think of the Tour de France, they think there are a hundred guys going for it and only one person wins,” said Evans. “One person can't cross that finish line without the assistance of their teammates. I know I could not have had any success were it not for my teammates.” What started out as a spur-of-the-moment purchase seven years ago turned into a life-alerting love that's made Bill a healthier, happier person. His commitment to excellence, coupled with
his competitive drive, has made him one of the region's most prominent athletes, and certainly, an inspiring fixture in the racing circuit. But this is only part of what Bill Evans does. He has another role to play; one that requires just as much passion, discipline and attention to detail. He is a teacher. When he’s not road racing, Bill is a fourthgrade teacher at Fredericksburg Academy. Unlike biking, though, he didn't just fall into teaching. “My father is a historian and my mother is a teacher, so I am exactly those two things,” said Evans. “My father was the kind of guy who took us to battlefields every week. We would go to a historical site, and he'd eventually start asking questions. At the end of the tour, everyone, including the tour guide, would be following his lead.” Like his father, Bill is committed to providing his students with the education they expect and deserve, often times taking a hands-on approach so that learning is both enjoyable and engaging. For example, when he discusses the Civil War— one of his favorite subjects— he shows students how to make and eat hard tack, march into battle and identify enfield rifles. It’s this type of experiential approach to learning that inspired Bill to teach in the first place. “I knew that I could make history fun and interesting, and I wanted to share my passion with younger children. It’s one of the reasons why I selected that age bracket. They’re open books and want to know everything,” said Evans, who, prior to Fredericksburg Academy, worked in an inner-city Richmond school. “I get great joy providing my students with the tools they need to grow in life.” "A good teacher, much like a coach, can find great ways to stay focused and motivate. When I’m in class, I’m pushing my students to learn and engage history. When I’m on my bike, I’m pushing myself to achieve greatness,” said Evans. “When it comes down to it, being successful at all aspects of my life requires hard work and dedication; it's committing 100 percent or not at all.” He wouldn’t have it any other way. d
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Be ready for Summer! Whether your pool is a quiet retreat or a place for rowdy recreation, AAA Pools can help you make the most of your backyard oasis. We’ll equip you with everything you need to maximize your enjoyment and minimize daily maintenance. Browse our pool and landscaping gallery in person at your leisure. Shop for your pool chemicals, equipment, and other fun stuff. You can even sit down and relax at our tiki bar. Explore the endless possibilities of your outdoor paradise. 5402 Plank Rd FRedeRicksbuRg, Va 22407 540-785-POOL (7665) • www.aaaPoolsllc.com 52 www.VaNeighbors.com
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ART | ENTERTAINMENT | MUSIC | DINING
MUSIC
The Rappahannock Youth Symphony
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ounded in 1996, this popular program enriches the region through music education and performance, all while acting as a supplement to school music programs. For the past thirteen years, the program has helped students between the ages of ten and eighteen in the greater Fredericksburg region excel in performance. The goal of the Symphony is to provide young, dedicated musicians with an opportunity to advance their skills and gain the strength and insight they need to reach their musical goals. While it’s an outlet for music enthusiasts, the Symphony also gives students a chance to meet likeminded artists, learn from area experts and establish new approaches to music. Whether it’s through community auctions, auditions or family-friendly events—such as Symphony and Tea or Painted Violin Projects—people young and old can establish new
friendships in a friendly and music-inspired environment. It’s this sense of community that keeps the Symphony going strong year after year, and it’s what has helped local artists grow as students of music. If you’re looking to embrace the performance of educated and spirited students, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to do that. The Symphony performs several concerts throughout the year, and has provided thousands of students over the years with a chance to perform symphonic literature at high levels. To witness what happens when musical talent and passion are encouraged, check out the Symphony’s Spring Concert on April 26 at James Monroe High School. To learn more about the Rappahannock Youth Symphony, or to purchase tickets for the spring concert, call 540.898.7102 or visit www.rysymphony.com today. MARCH / APRIL 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 53
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BEST BITES
A Local Bite of Britain
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ou can judge the caliber of restaurant largely by its ability to lure in hordes of hungry people. If there are significantly more people in attendance than there are sets of silverware, that’s a tell-tale sign. The Fredericksburg Pub, a high-energy, British-infused eatery adjacent to Spotsylvania Town Centre, has shown all the signs of a successful restaurant since it opened on January 15. Having heard great things about the place, I decided to stop by and see if it lives up to the hype. When I pulled up to the restaurant, I couldn’t help but notice the Pub’s sophisticated exterior— an award-winning ensemble of black and red, modeled after the classic corner pubs of London. At the elbow, there’s a wide space devoted to three outdoor patios, which lends itself to elegant dining beneath the warm spring sun. A good distance from that, smokers circled around the cigarette disposal, awaiting their turn to eat (smoking is not allowed inside the restaurant). Upon entering, I was taken aback by the sheer volume of people clamoring for a piece of the Pub. It seems I wasn’t the only one who had heard about this place. Though the line was long, I was able to secure a table in no time. I was escorted to a quaint spot in the corner, which gave me an unobstructed view of my surroundings. To my left were large tables—the kind you’d find in storybook
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castles—with gigantic, kingly chairs as their bookends. To my right, in the middle of the Pub, was a wraparound bar hand-crafted in the United Kingdom. It’s expansive and tall, reaching to the ceiling with elaborately detailed columns. As I later learned, all of the furniture was purchased in England in order to provide patrons with an authentic look and feel. The British aesthetics extend to the wall where there are a ton of native images, all paying homage to the culture and history of England. From a service perspective, the wait staff was diligent, friendly and excited to make my experience a memorable one. Each staff member proudly wears kilts and matching shirts that, when combined with the look of the place, makes you feel like you just stepped into a true-to-life British pub. After a quick review of the menu, I ordered the goat cheese dip appetizer, followed by a Pub Classic. I coupled the hardy food with a rich, dark-as-oil stout served in a bourbon sniffer. The combination sent my taste buds to heaven— the burger was cooked to perfection, sandwiched by soft, buttery buns, and the dip simply melted in my mouth. Washing it down with an inexpensive-yet-savory beer rounded out the delectable experience. The robust menu combines the finest in traditional British pub fare, such as fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and
Left: Marta Locklear Photo; Right: Photo courtesy of The Fredericksburg Pub
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Where do you go for practical marketing advice? Most business owners don’t have a seasoned advisor to help tackle marketing problems and discover new advertising opportunities. Willow Marketing Agency fills that void.
bangers and mash, along with unique dishes like seared ahi satay and whiskeycracked pepper steak. Filling appetizers, hot sandwiches, hand-pressed paninis and world-class desserts can also be found. Even better, there are shareable platters that let guests sample several plates in one sitting. And you can’t forget about the extensive beverage selection. The Pub offers the finest beers, wines and scotches, all expertly paired with meals. In all, there are 85 different beers from across the globe, including a wide range of English, Scottish and Irish draught, cask-conditioned brews and popular domestics. An award-winning selection of bourbons, scotches and whiskies, served up through optic pourers, take center stage at the bar, giving The Fredericksburg Pub its distinctive and charming appeal. If you’re looking for a culinary extravaganza without the costly price tag, this is the place for you. With an appealing array of food and drink offerings, a
glamorous setting and a truly convenient location, The Fredericksburg Pub has set the bar for all other restaurants in the region. All in all, this is a wonderful choice for the hungry, offering a refreshing atmosphere, mouth-watering food and drink, and a chance to “go British!” in your own backyard. — Nicholas Addison Thomas
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540-548-3777
The Fredericksburg Pub Located in the Village at the Spotsylvania Towne Centre (adjacent to Macys) 1 Towne Center Blvd. Fredericksburg, VA 540-548-0550 www.thebritishpubs.com Hours of Operation: Monday-Wednesday: 3 pm – 1 am Thursday-Saturday: Open for lunch and dinner, 11 am – 2 am Sunday: 11 am – midnight
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ART
Carrying a Tune on Canvas
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ince the dawn of time, music has played an integral role in the way we live our lives. It is a poetic form of art that inspires us, emboldens us, and at times, leaves us mesmerized. Music, by and large, is an elixir of emotions delivered through reverberations and volume. For local artist Rob Landeck, there’s more to music than just sound. There’s inspiration. “To me, music is directly related to the process of art making. Elements of art, such as rhythm, repetition, balance, harmony and unity, are applied to music as well,” said Landeck. “Musical artists understand and convey their feelings through their art. I am trying to capture some of this emotion while also paying homage to them in my paintings.” One look at Rob’s artwork and you’ll understand the role music plays. Rob primarily draws his inspiration from blues musicians, as well as the paintings of Romare Bearden, JeanMichel Basquiat, Robert Rauschenberg and Jasper Johns. A mixed-media artist, Rob enjoys looking for objects and unleashing the object’s potential through his art medium. Sometimes it's a piece of plywood, other times it’s a paintbucket handle, a beer can or a bucket of rusty nails— they’re all tools for this local artist. “I make the kind of art that I would hang in my own house. My approach differs from piece to piece. I paint, collage, build assemblage pieces and make prints. Some are planned, most aren't,” said Landeck. 56 www.VaNeighbors.com
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Like many artists, Rob has been making things since childhood. Fortunately, he was surrounded by all of the necessary tools to spur his passion. Rob’s father used to own a hobby and craft shop in Ohio, where they grew up. Stained glass, macramé, drawing materials, driftwood— everything a budding artist needed was at his disposal. Rob took advantage of it, and in the process, he found himself becoming
Adam Desio Photos
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Camille’s Catering! We Deliver For All Occasions!
Enjoy a FREE cookie tray with your first catering order 1911 Carl D. Silver Pkwy. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Cafe (540) 548-3663 Offer available at this location only. Not to be combined with other offers.
more and more in tune with his artistic side. “As a kid, I was introduced to different, non-traditional media. Looking back, I would say that the time spent at my father’s shop was very influential,” said Landeck, who graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a B.F.A. in Art Education. “I still apply things I discovered as a child.” With powerful images and a strong use of color, Rob’s artwork has been heralded by local publications and art critics alike. Since he started exhibiting his work, Rob has showcased his work in a number of exhibitions around Fredericksburg, Richmond and the Washington, D.C. area. He currently operates out of a studio at LibertyTown Arts Workshop, the largest art center within a 45-mile radius of Fredericksburg. It’s a perfect outlet for the experienced artist, as it affords him an opportunity to practice his craft and discuss all-things art with other local artisans. “The owner, Dan Finnegan, has created a very artist-friendly environment here. He has given us the opportunity to show, teach, sell and talk about our chosen media,” said Landeck. “LibertyTown has been a great addition to Fredericksburg, as well as to the local arts community. I’m glad I can be a part of it.” When he’s not drawing inspiration from everyday life and putting paint to canvas, Rob is enjoying live music, visiting other art venues and volunteering as a coach with Fredericksburg Parks and Recreation’s football and baseball programs. The father of two also spends quality time with his wife, Cameron, and their 10- and 3-year-old sons. It’s safe to say that, like music, Rob has found his rhythm in both work and life. To learn more about Rob Landeck’s art, or to purchase one of his masterpieces, visit www.landeckart.com. To learn more about LibertyTown Arts Workshop, go to www.libertytownarts.com. — Nicholas Addison Thomas MARCH / APRIL 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 57
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Save Money Save Energy Top Choice Homes, Inc. TAX CREDITS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE Limited to first-time home buyers: a) Equal to 10% of the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000 b) Available for homes purchased on or after Jan. 1, 2009 and before Dec. 1, 2009 c) Does not have to be repaid d) Income limits of $75,000 for single taxpayers and $150,000 for married couples e) Recaptured if home is sold within 3 years Energy savings for remodels now available: a) Exterior windows, doors, skylights, storm doors: 30% of cost up to $1,500 b) Roofing, metal and asphalt: 30% of cost up to $1,500 c) Geothermal energy systems: 30% of the cost-not subject to $1,500 cap
Please contact our office for more information.
540.368.2301
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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN AND AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Out&About
Belmont in Bloom Tour
On Sunday, April 19th, Beate Jensen will give an illustrated talk about the bulbs at Gari Melchers Home and Studio at Belmont. She will discuss the historic varieties planted or surviving on the property and touch on the use of spring- and summer-planted bulbs to provide seasonal interest in the garden. Roxbury Farm and Garden Center will bring a variety of spring-planted bulbs and planters. Following the talk, Beate will lead a tour of the grounds and gardens. For more information and to register, please contact Beate Jensen at 540-654-1839 or bjensen@umw.edu. 3/13/09 to 4/24/09
Exhibition, "Mind and Metaphor" “Mind and Metaphor: Psychology and Symbolism in Mid-Century Painting”; Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m.; Ridderhof Martin Gallery UMW, Fredericksburg. 3/13/09 to 3/14/09
Third Stream Giants Funk and Groove Ensemble, featuring Anthony Campbell One of the area's newest and hottest music groups is celebrating the release of their much anticipated CD with a CD-release party at The Loft, 1005 Princess Anne St. Fredericksburg. The admission is $10 at the door, and you can get your copy of the band's debut CD, “Cool Human,” for only $5 with admission. Friday, March 13th and Saturday, March 14th Show begins at 9 p.m. The Loft: (540) 654-5855
Third Stream Giants: (540) 903-1547 3/14/09
St. Patrick's Day Parade The 7th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade includes fire trucks, classic cars, high school marching band, community organizations, Irish dancers, horses, military equipment and local pageant winners. Parade ends at new home of Blue & Gray Brewing. Corned beef, cabbage, potato meal $5 (pre-sale), proceeds to local volunteer fire and rescue squad. Saturday, March 14, 2009 (10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) www.blueandgraybrewingco. com/Events.cfm. 3/14/2009 to 3/15/2009
Bowl for Kids’ Sake, Big Brothers Big Sisters This is the largest fundraising event held by RBBBB each year generating an average of over $65,000 for the agency. Hundreds of people join to raise money, contribute goods and services, promote the
event, and come together on three different event days to have fun and support the growth of our programs. There are many sponsorship opportunities for companies. In addition, the agency will be soliciting prizes as well as teams of four (friends, family members and coworkers) to raise money through pledges. Please contact Lisa Bales at 540-371-7444 or lisabales@ rbbbs.org for more details.
Going once, going twice, SOLD!
The Fredericksburg Area Museum & Cultural Center will hold its 12th Annual Silent Auction & Gala on Saturday, March 28. Auction items include art, jewelry, trips and more. This annual event supports the Museum's educational and outreach programming. Jepson Alumni Executive Center, Fredericksburg Call (540) 371-3037 for reservations
3/15/09
St. Patrick's Day Parade Celebrate Fredericksburg's Fourth Annual St. Patrick's Weekend with a Parade in Historic Downtown Fredericksburg Sunday Evening March 15th, Parade starts at 6 p.m. at Caroline St. and Lafayette Blvd.
competing in various media for awards. 408 Canal St., Fredericksburg
3/15/2009 to 3/22/2009
3/18/09
58th Annual Fredericksburg Fine Arts Exhibit Regional artists display their talent and creativity
Kickball Tournament UMW's Circle K International service organization is holding an event in order to raise money for the Boys and
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Out&About Girls Club of Fredericksburg. The group plans on holding their second annual Kickball Tournament on March 18th in Ball Circle. UMW students and off-campus patrons are welcome to join in on the fun. Although pre-registration is ideal, teams can sign up on site to play. Teams of five to six pay $20 in order to compete. Pre-registered teams receive t-shirts and the winners get prizes at the end of the competition. The tournament will be held from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Don't miss this opportunity to play a classic game, enjoy great company, and support a fabulous cause! For more information contact: meads@umw.edu 3/20/09
Reptile World Come and meet an interesting selection of live, colorful, and
gentle reptiles from around the world. This program will conclude with a chance to touch an enormous snake. Michael Shwedick and his unique reptiles will entertain, educate and fascinate young and old alike! Sign up early— space is limited. This show is recommended for schoolaged children. Tickets are for sale in advance, and may not be avilable at the door. Group rates available. Stafford Courthouse Community Center 3/21/09
6th Annual Fredericksburg Fly Fishing Show Join us for the 6th annual Fredericksburg Fly Fishing show at the National Guard Armory in Fredericksburg. A day devoted to the sport of fly fishing and all those who enjoy it. This year we
Fredericksburg Spring Arts and Crafts Faire
What a great weekend to shop the the arts and crafts products that were hadmade by the artisians in attendence. Whether you are looking for a unique gift or something special for yourself, the Fredericksburg Spring Arts and Craft Faire is the place to be Saturday, April 4, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, April 5 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fredericksburg Expo Center. Adults: $5, children 12 and under FREE. www.bmgevents.com
continue our tradition of bringing the sport’s finest to Fredericksburg by presenting our guest speaker lineup of the legendary Lefty Kreh as well as fly fishing’s world traveler Harry Robertson and Outer Banks fly-fishing expert, Brian Horsley. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adults: $5, Children 13 to 17: $3, Scouts in Uniform: FREE, Kids under 12: FREE www.ffflyfishers.org 3/21/09
March Musical Mix The University of Mary Washington/College Community Symphony Orchestra features the works of Czech composer Antonin Dvorak at Dodd Auditorium in George Washington Hall at the Univeristy of Mary Washington, 7:30 pm. FREE. 3/21/09 to 3/22/09
Greenberg's Train and Toy Show Greenberg's Train & Toy Show is the oldest and largest model train show on the East Coast. More than 400 tables of model trains, collectible toys, diecast vehicles and modeling supplies are for sale and huge operating model train layouts are set up and operating at the show. The show also features free modeling seminars and workshops, activities for children, door prizes and more! Adult admission is $7 and children 11 and under are admitted FREE. For more information see www. GreenbergShows.com. 3/24/09
Evening with An Expert Lecture Series “Why and What to Preserve: Using Preservation to Teach the Future about the Past."
Dr. Kerri Barile of Dovetail Cultural Resource Group will discuss the importance of preserving our cultural resources. 7 p.m, Town Hall. Reception to follow. FREE. Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center 3/24/09
Fredericksburg Forum, featuring Sam Donaldson Fredericksburg Forum featuring Sam Donaldson George Washington Hall, Dodd Auditorium, University of Mary Washington, 1301 College Avenue, Fredericksburg. Admission Fee: $30. Phone: (540) 654-1055 3/27/2009 to 3/28/2009
14th Annual Children's Art Show Come see the area's youngest creative talents! Local children ages 4yrs – 12th grade display their work in various media. FREE. 408 Canal St, Fredericksburg 3/27/2009 to 3/28/2009
Fredericksburg Home and Garden Show Ideas. Advice. Solutions. With hundreds of displays and dozens of ways to learn, you can gather what you need to get your home project rolling. Tickets are good for the entire weekend. Adults: $7, children 12 and under are FREE. Friday: 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m.. to 8 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 3/28/2009
Concert, Jazz Festival Featuring the UMW High School All-Star Honors Jazz Band; 7 p.m.; George Washington Hall, Dodd Auditorium. FREE. University of Mary Washington
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3/28/2009
4/04/09
Voices in the Storm: Spotsylvania's Great Trial
Magnolia Ball
No place in America suffered more during war than Spotsylvania. Children, churches, parents, and homesteads— all were caught in a maelstrom that transformed them. On Saturday March 28, members of the community, Massaponax Baptist Church, and the National Park Service come together to tell the story of Spotsylvania’s residents during the Civil War. Using a vivid historic setting, music, images, and the words of the people who lived here— both slave and free— “Voices from the Storm: Spotsylvania's Great Trial” will portray a community amidst four years of struggle. FREE. 5101 Massaponax Church Road, Fredericksburg 4/03/09
Edible Art Competition — Food About Art
The Magnolia Ball is an annual fundraiser that supports Hospice Support Care's programs. Enjoy an elegant evening which includes a Jazz-filled Cocktail Hour and Silent Auction followed by Dinner and Dancing to the sounds of the Fredericksburg Big Band. 6 p.m to 11 p.m. Admission Fee: $90 pp or $650/table. The Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center, (450) 361-7071, www. hospicesupportcare.org Attire: Black tie optional 4/04/09 to 4/05/09
Horton Vineyards’ Spring Barrel Tasting Taste the NEW ’08 wines and tour the cellars of our stone winery. There will be discussions on viticulture and winemaking throughout the day. 11 am to 5 pm. $5/person includes glass. Info: 540-8327440. www.hvwine.com
As part of First Friday's Art Opening, “Feast For the Eyes,” we have a popular Edible Art Competition! Vote on your favorite Food Art. Awards will be given that night. FREELibertyTown Arts Workshop, Fredericksburg. http://www. libertytownarts.com
4/04/09
4/03/09 to 4/26/09
4/04/09
“Feast For the Eyes,” An Exhibit of Art About Food Please join us for our opening reception on April 3rd, 5 to 9 p.m. for this Juried Exhibiton, "Feast For the Eyes," now in its 3rd year. FREE. LibertyTown Arts Workshop, Fredericksburg. http://www.libertytownarts. com
Jacob Pastwik Photo
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19th Annual Multicultural Fair An annual event featuring multicultural entertainment, food and craft vendors; Campus Walk and Ball Circle, rain or shine, University of Mary Washington. Phone: (540) 654-1044
EGGsplosion! Join the excitement in this fun-filled day to celebrate spring. From 11 am to 4 pm, children will enjoy a day of activities including an egg hunt. Price includes all activities (food not included); no charge for adults. Tickets available in advance. (540) 658-4871. Curtis Memorial Park, Fredericksburg
Start Spring With A Sip Beautiful weather, friendly faces and a broad selection of distinctive wines, all on a luxurious, Mediterranean-style estate— what’s not to love about the annual Potomac Point Winery Barrel Tasting? Held every year at Potomac Point Winery, an award-wining vineyard in Stafford County, this annual event offers guests the best wines in the region. If you want to treat your palate to a smorgasbord of rich tannins and overtones this spring, then look no further. On March 21, Potomac Point Winery is offering wine connoisseurs and beginners alike a chance to experience something truly memorable. All visitors will experience a one-of-a-kind tasting with Simone, their resident winemaker, and discover why the vineyard was rated one of the top ten wineries in Virginia. This year, prepare for a powerful vintage. Potomac Point Winery offers so many new wines for tasting that they broke the selections down into three categories. There’s “Classic,” which consists of eight wines, such as Petit Verdot, Abbinato and Cabernet Franc; “Reserve,” which consists of five wines, including Rabelos Port and Heritage Richland Reserve; and “Premier,” a deluxe offering of 13 exotic and extravagant wines. All tastings comes with a complimentary Potomac Point wine glass and olive-oil tasting. Admission price for the tasting is $15 per person. Reservations required. To learn more, call 540-446-2266 or visit www.potomacpointwinery.com. Potomac Point Vineyard & Winery 275 Decatur Road, Stafford, VA 22554 Hours of Operation: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday: Closed MARCH / APRIL 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 61
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Out&About 4/04/09
Easter Egg Hunt Hoppy Easter! An egg hunt and a visit with the Easter bunny for young children. Bring your basket. 12:30 p.m. FREE. 1701 Kenmore Ave, Fredericksburg 4/04/09
Spring Wildflower Hike University of Mary Washington Professor Michael Killian will lead this easy interpretive hike along our trails in the riverside forest buffer. It’s the perfect time of year to catch our local wildflowers in full splendor. You will learn how to identify these little beauties and some of the stories behind their names. 10 am to 12 pm. Rain or shine. Pre-registration required, call 540-373-3448 to register. Friends of the Rappahannock Headquarters, Fredericksburg 4/04/09 to 4/19/09
Exhibition, "Annual Student Art Exhibition" Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m.; duPont Gallery, College Ave. at Thornton St. FREE. University of Mary Washington 4/05/09
Tartan Day at Dr. Mercer's Apothecary A celebration of Hugh Mercer's Scottish heritage. Special exhibits are featured. From 10am to 2pm, the Scottish Society of Fredericksburg will have musical entertainment. 1020 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg. Phone: (540) 373-3362 4/10/09
Derby Central Songsters Community Concert Straight from England, the enormously gifted Derby
Central Songsters bring their unique blend of Christian music to the Fredericksburg area for a free community concert courtesy of The Salvation Army. Concert begins at 7:00 p.m. FREE. Spotswood Baptist Church, Fredericksburg 4/11/09
Spring Fling at the Museum Kick off the Spring with Children's activities in the Market Square— drop in from 1 to 3 p.m.— and architectural walking tours with Hallowed Ground Tours. FREE. http:// www.fredericksburgareamuseum.com 4/18/09
Concert, UMW-CSO Celebrity Series UMW-Community Symphony Orchestra William M.
Sundae Sunday
Anderson Jr. Celebrity Series featuring Keith Lockhart, conductor of the Boston Pops; 7:30 p.m.; George Washington Hall, Dodd Auditorium 540654-1012. University of Mary Washington 4/18/2009 to 4/19/2009
Spring Wine Celebration Join Hartwood Winery for the release of their new vintages, live music, tours and light hors d'oeuvres. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission includes complimentary glass. 345 Hartwood Road, Fredericksburg, 540-752-4893 4/20/2009 to 4/25/2009
Spring Opening of St. James' House This small, gambrel-roofed house is a fine example of an eighteenth-century gentleman's house. It contains a
UMW's Circle K International service organization is holding their annual "Sundae Sunday" event dedicated to raising money for Relay for Life, the annual cancer awareness walk put on by the American Cancer Society. Both UMW students and off-campus patrons are invited to stop by the Great Hall to make their own sundaes. Ice cream and toppings will be provided, and $3 will get you a few scoops of vanilla or chocolate with which to make your own delicious sundae. Circle K International accepts extra donations, of course, and $5 will get you two sundaes at the same time. Music will be provided as an added bonus of entertainment. Sunday, April 5th. For more information contact: meads@umw.edu
collection of period furnishings, including silver, glass, porcelain, and furniture. It was built by James Mercer, first judge of the General Court in Fredericksburg. The house is open three times a year and serves as a residence. 1300 Charles St., Fredericksburg . 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Adults: $3, Children 6–18: $1, Chidlren under 6: Free. 4/21/09
Historic Garden Day This year’s tour will be held in Westmont, a hilly, wooded, mid-20th century Fredericksburg neighborhood known for its eclectic architectural styles and lush gardens. The tour features costumed hostesses, refreshments and beautiful gardens and arrangements. For more information call the Fredericksburg Visitor Center: (800) 678-4748 or go online to http://www. vagardenweek.org/ 4/24/09 to 4/25/09
NVRHA 37th Annual American Civil War Show The Northern Virginia Relic Hunters Association presents it's 37th Annual American Civil War Show. Featuring 350 Tables of the finest Civil War and earlier Military Effects, Relics, Memorabilia, Books, Paper Goods, Art and Antique Weapons. Admission $8, but children 12 and under free if accompanied by parent. Be sure to bring the whole family for an educational experience. Show hours are: Friday, April 24th, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, April 25th, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional info visit: www.nvrha.com/show.htm.
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HOT SPOTS continued from page 33 _______________________________________________________________
is clear and clean with good populations of largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, and white perch. According to VDGIF biologists that monitor the lake, Motts had the third-highest catch rate of large bass out of 19 district reservoirs sampled in the past few years. Motts’ excellent white perch population, with fish up to a pound, is fun for families that just want to catch a bunch of fish. Be forewarned, though; Motts Run can be a difficult lake to fish if you are looking for weed beds and visible structure to cast lures toward. This reservoir was scraped clean when it was created and is steep-sided and deep. Anglers should search out several underwater islands and beaver lodges. The boat ramp and rental concession is operated by the Fredericksburg Parks and Recreation Department. It opens in late-March or early-April, and it closes in late-October.
Mark Newton Golf Classic to Benefit JM Athletes The First Annual Mark Newton Golf Classic and pre-event for the Mark Newton Homecoming Pickin’ Party will be held on Friday, April 24, 2009 at Lee’s Hill Golf Club. The golf outing will benefit James Monroe High School athletic department. Mark’s love for his hometown and the desire to give back to the community are the foundation for the Golf tournament on April 24th and the Homecoming Pickin’ Party on September 19, 2009. Mark and his family moved just outside of Nashville, Tennessee in 2004 to be closer to the music industry. A 1976 James Monroe Alumnus, Mark Newton grew up in the Fredericksburg area after his family settled here when he was three years old. Mark was brought up in a home full of music where his father played the mandolin, guitar and fiddle, and his mother was an accomplished pianist. It is no wonder Mark caught the music “bug”. In addition to music, Mark also loved playing sports and it was a big part of his high school days at “JAYEM”. Through the years he played basketball, football, and softball but admits softball was his favorite. He now hopes the “golf” bug will spur a hugely successful golf event. Registration and check-in begins at 8:00 a.m., with tee times at 9:00 a.m. Registration fees include green fees, cart, practice range, complimentary beverages, awards, and light breakfast/lunch for golfers. For more information, contact Mike Loving at 540-379-5510 (sales@ mvpawards.us) or e-mail Barry Surles at bsurles@aol. com. For more information on both events, check out www.marknewtonshomecomingpickinparty.com.
Mountain Run Known as the sister lake to Pelham, Mountain Run is another water-supply reservoir near Culpeper. At 75 acres, it’s a bit smaller than Pelham but it’s loaded with largemouth bass and shellcrackers (red-eared sunfish). Fishing during the spawn of either species will reveal plenty of shallow-water nesting activity. It’s not uncommon to look down and see 100 shellcracker beds on the bottom in the clear water. Channel catfish and brown bullhead populations, as documented by a VDGIF sampling in 2008, are among the best found in a small impoundment in Northern Virginia. The lake has limited submerged weed growth but abundant shoreline cover in the form of rocks and downed trees and stumps. There is a concrete boat ramp and plenty of space for bank fishing. A picnic shelter and playground are in a nearby park that overlooks the lake. Permits are required for fishing and boating, and can be obtained from the Town of Culpeper. Lake Orange As its name would imply, Lake Orange is located in Orange County. This 124-acre lake was created in 1964 and continues to offer excellent recreational fishing opportunities. The largemouth bass fishery is healthy with specimens approaching 10 pounds. There are also crappie, channel catfish, bluegill, shellcracker, chain pickerel and walleye in Lake Orange. There are numerous facilities at Lake Orange, including a concession that provides boat rental, bait and tackle; a handicapped-accessible fishing pier; and even picnic areas. This lake is open all year and 24 hours a day for shore fishing and private boats. The concession is open from mid-March through mid-October. C.C. McCotter is the Editor of Woods & Waters Magazine and a fishing guide on Lake Anna. Visit his blog at www.mccotterslakeanna.blogspot.com or Web site at www.lakeannalife.com MARCH / APRIL 2009 | VIRGINIA NEIGHBORS 63
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Cul-de-sac
Small Town Morning By John Amos
You should be able to walk from the courthouse to the post office in under five minutes. It’s only a block, less than hundred yards. But small towns are funny places. A walk up Main Street in the little town of Orange, Virginia, often takes longer than you’d expect. Not long ago, on a weekday morning, I had a few errands to run. Mostly, I had bills to pay. Now follow closely: I park in front of the courthouse. As I head toward the post office, Ben stops me. We shake hands and chat. He asks about my new job, about my wife and kids. Soon E.W. steps through the post office door, a pasteboard box under his arm. He’s ordered a new golf club and it’s just arrived in the mail. The side of the box reads “sympleputter.com” in bright orange letters. We razz him a bit (golfers are suckers for gimmicks), then go our separate ways. Inside the post office, I am the only customer in line. From behind the counter Sharon calls me by name. We’ve known each other since high school. I coach her granddaughter. “Whatcha need, John? “Just a book of stamps.” I move to the table and begin sorting the out-of-town bills from the locals. Ray appears at my elbow. “Haven’t seen you in while.” “Oh, I’m around.” General pleasantries follow. To save on stamps, I decide to deliver the local stuff by hand. I’m greeted with smiles and conversation at Lacy’s Florist. Then inquiries about my family at the Town Office while paying my water bill. More smiles and questions about job and family at the Orange Pharmacy. On my way back to the truck I meet Craig. First, the ritual handshake. Then, remembrances of camping together as kids, grumblings about gas prices, and the state of the economy. Twenty minutes later, we wave our goodbyes. I need to buy a few groceries, but before I can get to the truck I meet: Earl: “How’s your dad?” Jim: “What happened to your old, gray pickup?”
Joe: “Say hi to your wife.” By my calculation, I’ve traveled about a hundred yards in roughly 60 minutes. Not a bad pace. About normal for a small town summer morning. Here’s the truth: The best thing about small towns is that everyone knows you. People genuinely care about their own. Small towns are oases in a world starved for connection. Of course, the worst thing about small towns is also that everyone knows you. People stick their noses where they don’t belong. Small towns can be insular, gossipy, stifling and narrow. But on this unseasonably cool summer morning, there’s no place I love more. Here I am known. I am liked. I am of the place. I feel like Fiddler Jones in Edgar Lee Masters’ poem. The broken old farmer could never plow his land because he was always distracted by the beauty of nature, by friends’ invitations to parties, by the fullness of life itself. How could I till my forty acres Not to speak of getting more, With a medley of horns, bassoons and piccolos Stirred in my brain by crows and robins And the creak of a wind-mill…? And I never started to plow in my life That some one did not stop in the road And take me away to a dance or picnic. I ended up with forty acres; I ended up with a broken fiddle— And a broken laugh, and a thousand memories, And not a single regret. ___________________________________________________________ Mr. Amos is a life-long resident of the Town of Orange.
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