October 2013 - Front Porch Fredericksburg

front porchYEAR 17 • ISSUE 196 • OCTOBER 2013 Frontporchfredericksburg.com

T H E R E G I O N ' S free C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N ELocal Good News Since 1997

TransitionsMen of Action

Barfield Bar None5

The Right Way Vera at 95

7

Kellen Gerenser The Possibilities

8

Ren FieldsYoga’s Finest

11

SensitiveRemodeling

Soft Opening12

FredaPhysical Meta in Fxbg

23

FCCA at 50Art Strong

26

The S.G.I.Trailblazers

27

A New DawnDarkness Fades

31

Y O U R G U I D E T O T H E L O C A L G O O D L I F E

front porch fredericksburg October 2013 32 October 2013 Front porch fredericksburg

Cover Photo by Sue Henderson

con

ten

ts closeups

5 Transitions... 4 men of action

7 Vera Way... at ninety five

24 Her creative kids rule!... Deb Munro

porch talk4 on the porch...life in fredericksburg

Messages

..8 Anything is possible: Kellen Gerenser

10 retired on the back porch: size matters

11 vimala ren fields: medicine for the mine & spirit

12 on restaurant rowCooking with kyle

13 season’s bounty:pass the pecan pie

15 will power: ..fresh ingredients=fresh beer

16-17 Calendar of Events

18 Our Heritage... masonic lodge 7history’s stories.: historic route 1

20 companion care: .when you move

21 autoknown better: how i spent my summer vacation

22 Senior Care: capturing life stories

23 let’s get metaphyiscalfire in the hole!: fire prevention in the kitchen

25 scene & heard...in the ‘burg!

26 celebrate fcca 50 years & beyondpoetryman

27 community link: spotsy greenways initiative

28 my own path: power of truthdisability resource center

29 porchlight: postscript

30 an easier & better way

31 from out of the darkness

...And more!10 810 caroline street: old building revisited

14 changing careers: lisa marsh

19 Bubbling & flowing: water street writer’s/artist’s studio opens

5

19

28

Lavishly Presented!

Hauntingly Rich in Flavor


Cover Photo by Sue Henderson

con

ten

ts closeups

5 Transitions... 4 men of action

7 Vera Way... at ninety five

24 Her creative kids rule!... Deb Munro

porch talk4 on the porch...life in fredericksburg

Messages

..8 Anything is possible: Kellen Gerenser

10 retired on the back porch: size matters

11 vimala ren fields: medicine for the mine & spirit

12 on restaurant rowCooking with kyle

13 season’s bounty:pass the pecan pie

15 will power: ..fresh ingredients=fresh beer

16-17 Calendar of Events

18 Our Heritage... masonic lodge 7history’s stories.: historic route 1

20 companion care: .when you move

21 autoknown better: how i spent my summer vacation

22 Senior Care: capturing life stories

23 let’s get metaphyiscalfire in the hole!: fire prevention in the kitchen

25 scene & heard...in the ‘burg!

26 celebrate fcca 50 years & beyondpoetryman

27 community link: spotsy greenways initiative

28 my own path: power of truthdisability resource center

29 porchlight: postscript

30 an easier & better way

31 from out of the darkness

...And more!10 810 caroline street: old building revisited

14 changing careers: lisa marsh

19 Bubbling & flowing: water street writer’s/artist’s studio opens

5

19

28

Lavishly Presented!

Hauntingly Rich in Flavor

Brandon Barfield is resilient andforever forward-moving. Ben Wafle isdeservedly retired. Ron Swaney has a toystory. And Mr. Caffrey is Kevin, the singer-songwriter…

These four men came on myradar recently for different reasons.Brandon, a catch-up coffee date to learnhis latest, post-Snap. Ben, to acknowledgehis retirement from Quarles Petroleumand to say best wishes to as fine agentleman as Fredericksburg knows. Ron,to examine the lighter side of life beyondthe badge for this city cop and candidatefor sheriff. And Kevin, because we owehim a correction and an encore afterprinting his name “Ken” in a feature inAugust (Medium Talent – the name of hislatest concept CD).

Update: Brandon received his realestate license in July. He had startedworking on it in 2012 and was interestedin for some time before, so it wasn’t inresponse to walking away from hispublication, Snap.

“Mind you, I was 24 when Istarted Snap. Most of my jobs were eitherin cooking, construction, and I servedsome time in the Coast Guard Reserves.”He gave up the local franchise of the

magazine “because I sawbetter opportunities withreal estate and grew tiredof the franchise model Iwas working under.”

Real Estate, however, isdefinitely a long termendeavor, as are his kidsand wife: “My kids areDeacon and Sam, age 5twins, and Vera, age 15months. Deacon & Samare your typical 5-year oldboys, energetic, fun, and attimes whiny. They rely on

each otherand needtheir ownt i m e ,space, andattention.Vera is asweet andpersonablebaby. Sheloves toi n t e r a c tand talkw i t hpeople.”

“Dad time”is extremely important to him. “I neverhad a father around growing up, so it’ssomething I want my kids to rememberwhen they are older, that their father wasnot just around but involved.” His wife,Katie, is a stay-at-home who runs a homeday care watching three kids. “She alsodoes Red Tent Photography in which shedoes family portraits but specializes inbirth photography. She’s a natural at it.”

The Barfields love Fxbg. “Thecommunity is strong and business can be

good. I’m passionate about seeing theDowntown area turn into somethingspecial. It’s got a long way to go but I’dlike to see it be more of a regional arts andculture hub in the future.” His businesstip? “Practice prudence. Use your timewisely and don’t become unbalanced.” Hisfavorite quote is “Prudence is the virtue ofthe senses. It is the science ofappearances. It is the outmost action ofthe inward life. It is God taking thoughtfor oxen. It moves matter after the lawsof matter. It is content to seek health ofbody by complying with physicalconditions, and health of mind by the laws

of theintellect.” -R.E. Emerson

O fp e r s o n a lchallenges, hesays, “Allthings mustpass. Finishthe job, wakeup, and doeach day tothe best of

your ability and youshall overcome!” Andwith those wise words,Brandon moves foreverforward…

Ron Swaney,on the other hand, ismoving into the past(so it seems) – hecollects vintage toys,the rarities you see onthose cable shows. Ronbegan collecting about 20years ago, “starting with pedal carsbecause they were large and flashy.”Given the enormous space they took up,he went smaller.

A hobby at first, collectingbecame an investment potential about 10years ago: “Toys that were producedbefore WWII have unique value, as manyof them were recycled due to their metalcontent during the war.” His childhoodfavorites were Hot Wheels, Tonka Trucks,and GI Joe’s. The pride and joy in hiscollection is a “Hones Viking Truck fromCleveland, OH. Most collectors feel it wasproduced by ‘Sturdytoy’ around the1920’s.” The truck comes in red or greenand only 10 or fewer original trucks exist!Value: $5,000. He has his original Schwinn

Pixi bicycle, but most of his collection isolder than he is!

Since most packaging is discardedor used for other purposes, or simplydeteriorates over time, original packaging,in tact, will usually bring more money. ForRon, the value will be when his “childrenrealize the historic meaning of theirheirlooms,” says the man of his “passion,not hobby.” All in good time…

Rob Grogan is passionate about thefascinating people of this

great community.

Rob Grogan Editor

PhotographerArcher Di Peppe

Contributing Writers & Artists

A.E.BayneMegan Byrnes Collette CapraraC.Ruth Cassell Lezlie CherylArch Di Peppe Christine FerberRob Fergusson Fran k FratoeWilliam Garnett Sue HendersonRalph “Tuffy” HicksKatie Hornung Rob HuffmanWill Loring Karl KarchJo Middleton Amy MillisSusan Carroll Morgan Kandra OrrM.L.Powers Vanessa MoncureScott Richards Paula RoseEmily Taggert SchrickerJennifer Skarbek James Kyle SnyderMatt Thomas Christine ThompsonRim Vining Sara Zolnick

Front Porch Fredericksburg is afree circulation magazine

published monthly by Olde Towne Publishing Co., Inc.

Virginia Bigenwald Grogan, Publisher.

The mission of Front PorchFredericksburg is to connect the

diverse citizenry of Fredericksburgwith lively features and informative

columns of interest to our community’s greatest resource,

its people.

Messages from our readers arewelcome. All submissions must be

received by e-mail by the 19th of themonth preceding publication.

Writers are welcome to requestWriter’s Guidelines and query the

Editor by e-mail.

Front PorchFredericksburg

PO Box 9203Fredericksburg, VA 22403

Phone: 540-220-1922E-Mail: [email protected]

Web Site:www.frontporchfredericksburg.com

The opinions expressed in Front PorchFredericksburg are those of the contributing writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of

Front Porch Fredericksburg or its advertisers.

Copyright 2013 Olde Towne Publishing Co., LLC

All rights reserved.


How does October stand a chanceon the community satisfaction meter afterthe outstanding September we just had,compliments of the Arts and MotherNature?

It stands on its own as the monthof the Autumnal Equinox and the HarvestMoon, with select art events and acornucopia of culinary arts experiencesadded to the palette of our colorfulcommunity.

And for me personally, it standsmore deeply — it’s an afterglow, acontinuance from one outstanding monthinto the next as I adjust to what is now mynew normal. Having this community’smonthly offerings open to me is one gift Iwill cherish as I move forward a littledifferently than before. With majorsurgery and procedures behind me, Iawoke one morning last month andrealized, “This is it. How I live my life fromnow on is what is now normal for me.”With a manmade part inside my Godmadebody, in the moment is the way to live. Inthe moment — Bob Sima’s music soreminds me as I wear out his trio of CD’s;with love and compassion and wonder, asLynda Allen’s twin volumes of poetry(Illuminate and Rest In The Knowing)carry her message to me, hand-deliveredby heartfelt goodness – in the moment, iswhat the warmth of living and being is allabout.

The overwhelming event thatraised my hopes and funded a sizeableportion of my outstanding medical bills isbehind me now, except for that sustaining

afterglow. My pace is dialed back afterthree days in which my body reminded meI was pushing too hard and not heedingMr. Sima’s call to loosen my grip andrecognize my formidable foe. Stubbornly,I see the need and view my own mortalitywith sobering truth as I transition into theautumn of my years and the autumn ofthe season.

I am soberly reminded by somany acquaintances and friends withvarious illnesses, ailments, and cancers,that taking it one moment at a time isboth wise and inspiring. I pray for themdaily, for Susan and Ted and Vanessa, andmore.

The death of Paul Akers shookme, not only because he was a fine man,but because he, too, had been makingprogress and mending with promise. I wasable to speak with his widow, Karen, histwo adult daughters and twogranddaughters. To the little ones Iimparted my simple not sage advice tohold onto their memories of him close totheir hearts. The afterglow of earlier thatSeptember carried me through thatmournful evening at the Covenant FuneralHome and allowed me to leave a positivethought for the most vulnerable of Paul’ssurvivors to ponder.

Looking ahead into this newmonth, I see transitions in the works forgood “porch people” and think about myown ongoing changes, too. I ampassionately birding and reading andsoaking up music as well as the sun,enjoying the earth’s bounty and lying

lower than September allowed me to.Things negative are not invited. Positiveof thought and heart, I embrace mybaseball, my Scotch, and above all myfamily. The handyman who will not come,the truck for sale that will not sell are nota worry now.

I’d rather plant a colorful mumor watch a Downy Woodpecker than fretabout getting things on a to-do list done.I’d rather be a human being than a humandoing (again, Mr. Sima), while basking inthe afterglow of that sweet September inFredericksburg.

There are others who feel thisway, too, and some of them we honorinside on these pages. So enjoy the issue,cover to cover, as you would your favoritepassion, and feel the inner warmthemanating from within the new month.

Peace.

ON THE PORCHafterglow

Robgwrites

messages

A friend of mine just told meabout her mother’s aversion to allnewspaper/radio/ television newsbecause it is always the bearer of BadThings. But last week she gave her theAugust issue of Front Porch and she readit cover-to-cover and raved about it,saying, “People are doing so manythings!”Collette CapraraPS - Your essay in the Aug. issue (“On ThePorch – Loosen Your Grip”) is as beautifulas Bob Sima’s music!

I have taken many many of thephotographs for covers for Front Porch,but two of my favorite aren’t mind. Lastmonth’s of the hummingbird and river byJay Anderson and Sept.’s by SueHenderson are fantastic. Their creativityis astounding. The cover is the frontporch of Front Porch. It is the first thingpeople see and has a lot to do with howmany people pick up the magazine andtake it home. I also enjoy seeing artworkon the covers using guest photographers

from a tremendous talent pool we are sofortunate to have. I hope these coversencourage others to submit ideas.Archer Di Peppe

Hi Rob,Thanks so much for plugging

our soon-to-be-published book of KnoxFamily Civil War letters. Thetranscription of over 100 letters has beena labor of love for volunteers at theHeritage Center. Katie Hornung did afine job of describing our excitement overbeing able to share the Knox story withthe public. We all thank you for yourinterest in and support of our mission topreserve local history.Judy ChaimsonCentral Rappahanock Heritage Center

Thank you for including mySept. article [A Day In The Life]! I was soexcited to see the letters you receivedabout my previous article. If you haveany ideas for the future and needsomeone to write or photograph, pleasecontact me. I’d love to contribute again!Thanks so much for the great experience!Natalie Wilson

About the Cover: Sue Henderson’sapples evoke the autumn harvest seasonin southern Stafford County. Makes you

want to pick and eat!

In Memoriam:This issue is dedicated to Paul

Edward Akers (October 13, 1949-September 20, 2013), a gentleman,family man, fine journalist, and goodcitizen of our community. Best knownlocally for his work at The Free Lance-Star, Paul’s extensive career includedmilitary service to our country. He will bemissed. (Photo courtesy the Akers family)

Transitions4 men of action

By rob grogan

Dearly Wanted:Fredericksburg'sOldest Residents

For Our Oral History --A Fredericksburg Treasure

Front Porch is calling for Our Town's Ageless Citizens

to let us know who they are soour writers can sit and hear

their wonderful stories. We treasure your lives

and memories.

Kevin Caffrey

Brandon Barfield

Ron Swaney

Ben Wafle

Brandon Barfield is resilient andforever forward-moving. Ben Wafle isdeservedly retired. Ron Swaney has a toystory. And Mr. Caffrey is Kevin, the singer-songwriter…

These four men came on myradar recently for different reasons.Brandon, a catch-up coffee date to learnhis latest, post-Snap. Ben, to acknowledgehis retirement from Quarles Petroleumand to say best wishes to as fine agentleman as Fredericksburg knows. Ron,to examine the lighter side of life beyondthe badge for this city cop and candidatefor sheriff. And Kevin, because we owehim a correction and an encore afterprinting his name “Ken” in a feature inAugust (Medium Talent – the name of hislatest concept CD).

Update: Brandon received his realestate license in July. He had startedworking on it in 2012 and was interestedin for some time before, so it wasn’t inresponse to walking away from hispublication, Snap.

“Mind you, I was 24 when Istarted Snap. Most of my jobs were eitherin cooking, construction, and I servedsome time in the Coast Guard Reserves.”He gave up the local franchise of the

magazine “because I sawbetter opportunities withreal estate and grew tiredof the franchise model Iwas working under.”

Real Estate, however, isdefinitely a long termendeavor, as are his kidsand wife: “My kids areDeacon and Sam, age 5twins, and Vera, age 15months. Deacon & Samare your typical 5-year oldboys, energetic, fun, and attimes whiny. They rely on

each otherand needtheir ownt i m e ,space, andattention.Vera is asweet andpersonablebaby. Sheloves toi n t e r a c tand talkw i t hpeople.”

“Dad time”is extremely important to him. “I neverhad a father around growing up, so it’ssomething I want my kids to rememberwhen they are older, that their father wasnot just around but involved.” His wife,Katie, is a stay-at-home who runs a homeday care watching three kids. “She alsodoes Red Tent Photography in which shedoes family portraits but specializes inbirth photography. She’s a natural at it.”

The Barfields love Fxbg. “Thecommunity is strong and business can be

good. I’m passionate about seeing theDowntown area turn into somethingspecial. It’s got a long way to go but I’dlike to see it be more of a regional arts andculture hub in the future.” His businesstip? “Practice prudence. Use your timewisely and don’t become unbalanced.” Hisfavorite quote is “Prudence is the virtue ofthe senses. It is the science ofappearances. It is the outmost action ofthe inward life. It is God taking thoughtfor oxen. It moves matter after the lawsof matter. It is content to seek health ofbody by complying with physicalconditions, and health of mind by the laws

of theintellect.” -R.E. Emerson

O fp e r s o n a lchallenges, hesays, “Allthings mustpass. Finishthe job, wakeup, and doeach day tothe best of

your ability and youshall overcome!” Andwith those wise words,Brandon moves foreverforward…

Ron Swaney,on the other hand, ismoving into the past(so it seems) – hecollects vintage toys,the rarities you see onthose cable shows. Ronbegan collecting about 20years ago, “starting with pedal carsbecause they were large and flashy.”Given the enormous space they took up,he went smaller.

A hobby at first, collectingbecame an investment potential about 10years ago: “Toys that were producedbefore WWII have unique value, as manyof them were recycled due to their metalcontent during the war.” His childhoodfavorites were Hot Wheels, Tonka Trucks,and GI Joe’s. The pride and joy in hiscollection is a “Hones Viking Truck fromCleveland, OH. Most collectors feel it wasproduced by ‘Sturdytoy’ around the1920’s.” The truck comes in red or greenand only 10 or fewer original trucks exist!Value: $5,000. He has his original Schwinn

Pixi bicycle, but most of his collection isolder than he is!

Since most packaging is discardedor used for other purposes, or simplydeteriorates over time, original packaging,in tact, will usually bring more money. ForRon, the value will be when his “childrenrealize the historic meaning of theirheirlooms,” says the man of his “passion,not hobby.” All in good time…

Rob Grogan is passionate about thefascinating people of this

great community.

Rob Grogan Editor

PhotographerArcher Di Peppe

Contributing Writers & Artists

A.E.BayneMegan Byrnes Collette CapraraC.Ruth Cassell Lezlie CherylArch Di Peppe Christine FerberRob Fergusson Fran k FratoeWilliam Garnett Sue HendersonRalph “Tuffy” HicksKatie Hornung Rob HuffmanWill Loring Karl KarchJo Middleton Amy MillisSusan Carroll Morgan Kandra OrrM.L.Powers Vanessa MoncureScott Richards Paula RoseEmily Taggert SchrickerJennifer Skarbek James Kyle SnyderMatt Thomas Christine ThompsonRim Vining Sara Zolnick

Front Porch Fredericksburg is afree circulation magazine

published monthly by Olde Towne Publishing Co., Inc.

Virginia Bigenwald Grogan, Publisher.

The mission of Front PorchFredericksburg is to connect the

diverse citizenry of Fredericksburgwith lively features and informative

columns of interest to our community’s greatest resource,

its people.

Messages from our readers arewelcome. All submissions must be

received by e-mail by the 19th of themonth preceding publication.

Writers are welcome to requestWriter’s Guidelines and query the

Editor by e-mail.


PO Box 9203Fredericksburg, VA 22403

Phone: 540-220-1922E-Mail: [email protected]

Web Site:www.frontporchfredericksburg.com

The opinions expressed in Front PorchFredericksburg are those of the contributing writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of

Front Porch Fredericksburg or its advertisers.

Copyright 2013 Olde Towne Publishing Co., LLC

All rights reserved.


How does October stand a chanceon the community satisfaction meter afterthe outstanding September we just had,compliments of the Arts and MotherNature?

It stands on its own as the monthof the Autumnal Equinox and the HarvestMoon, with select art events and acornucopia of culinary arts experiencesadded to the palette of our colorfulcommunity.

And for me personally, it standsmore deeply — it’s an afterglow, acontinuance from one outstanding monthinto the next as I adjust to what is now mynew normal. Having this community’smonthly offerings open to me is one gift Iwill cherish as I move forward a littledifferently than before. With majorsurgery and procedures behind me, Iawoke one morning last month andrealized, “This is it. How I live my life fromnow on is what is now normal for me.”With a manmade part inside my Godmadebody, in the moment is the way to live. Inthe moment — Bob Sima’s music soreminds me as I wear out his trio of CD’s;with love and compassion and wonder, asLynda Allen’s twin volumes of poetry(Illuminate and Rest In The Knowing)carry her message to me, hand-deliveredby heartfelt goodness – in the moment, iswhat the warmth of living and being is allabout.

The overwhelming event thatraised my hopes and funded a sizeableportion of my outstanding medical bills isbehind me now, except for that sustaining

afterglow. My pace is dialed back afterthree days in which my body reminded meI was pushing too hard and not heedingMr. Sima’s call to loosen my grip andrecognize my formidable foe. Stubbornly,I see the need and view my own mortalitywith sobering truth as I transition into theautumn of my years and the autumn ofthe season.

I am soberly reminded by somany acquaintances and friends withvarious illnesses, ailments, and cancers,that taking it one moment at a time isboth wise and inspiring. I pray for themdaily, for Susan and Ted and Vanessa, andmore.

The death of Paul Akers shookme, not only because he was a fine man,but because he, too, had been makingprogress and mending with promise. I wasable to speak with his widow, Karen, histwo adult daughters and twogranddaughters. To the little ones Iimparted my simple not sage advice tohold onto their memories of him close totheir hearts. The afterglow of earlier thatSeptember carried me through thatmournful evening at the Covenant FuneralHome and allowed me to leave a positivethought for the most vulnerable of Paul’ssurvivors to ponder.

Looking ahead into this newmonth, I see transitions in the works forgood “porch people” and think about myown ongoing changes, too. I ampassionately birding and reading andsoaking up music as well as the sun,enjoying the earth’s bounty and lying

lower than September allowed me to.Things negative are not invited. Positiveof thought and heart, I embrace mybaseball, my Scotch, and above all myfamily. The handyman who will not come,the truck for sale that will not sell are nota worry now.

I’d rather plant a colorful mumor watch a Downy Woodpecker than fretabout getting things on a to-do list done.I’d rather be a human being than a humandoing (again, Mr. Sima), while basking inthe afterglow of that sweet September inFredericksburg.

There are others who feel thisway, too, and some of them we honorinside on these pages. So enjoy the issue,cover to cover, as you would your favoritepassion, and feel the inner warmthemanating from within the new month.

Peace.

ON THE PORCHafterglow

Robgwrites

messages

A friend of mine just told meabout her mother’s aversion to allnewspaper/radio/ television newsbecause it is always the bearer of BadThings. But last week she gave her theAugust issue of Front Porch and she readit cover-to-cover and raved about it,saying, “People are doing so manythings!”Collette CapraraPS - Your essay in the Aug. issue (“On ThePorch – Loosen Your Grip”) is as beautifulas Bob Sima’s music!

I have taken many many of thephotographs for covers for Front Porch,but two of my favorite aren’t mind. Lastmonth’s of the hummingbird and river byJay Anderson and Sept.’s by SueHenderson are fantastic. Their creativityis astounding. The cover is the frontporch of Front Porch. It is the first thingpeople see and has a lot to do with howmany people pick up the magazine andtake it home. I also enjoy seeing artworkon the covers using guest photographers

from a tremendous talent pool we are sofortunate to have. I hope these coversencourage others to submit ideas.Archer Di Peppe

Hi Rob,Thanks so much for plugging

our soon-to-be-published book of KnoxFamily Civil War letters. Thetranscription of over 100 letters has beena labor of love for volunteers at theHeritage Center. Katie Hornung did afine job of describing our excitement overbeing able to share the Knox story withthe public. We all thank you for yourinterest in and support of our mission topreserve local history.Judy ChaimsonCentral Rappahanock Heritage Center

Thank you for including mySept. article [A Day In The Life]! I was soexcited to see the letters you receivedabout my previous article. If you haveany ideas for the future and needsomeone to write or photograph, pleasecontact me. I’d love to contribute again!Thanks so much for the great experience!Natalie Wilson

About the Cover: Sue Henderson’sapples evoke the autumn harvest seasonin southern Stafford County. Makes you

want to pick and eat!

In Memoriam:This issue is dedicated to Paul

Edward Akers (October 13, 1949-September 20, 2013), a gentleman,family man, fine journalist, and goodcitizen of our community. Best knownlocally for his work at The Free Lance-Star, Paul’s extensive career includedmilitary service to our country. He will bemissed. (Photo courtesy the Akers family)

Transitions4 men of action

By rob grogan

Dearly Wanted:Fredericksburg'sOldest Residents

For Our Oral History --A Fredericksburg Treasure

Front Porch is calling for Our Town's Ageless Citizens

to let us know who they are soour writers can sit and hear

their wonderful stories. We treasure your lives

and memories.

Kevin Caffrey

Brandon Barfield

Ron Swaney

Ben Wafle

My wife and I were delighted toreceive an invitation to Vera Way’s ninety-fifth birthday party in September. I firstmet Vera fifteen years ago when I wasdoing research for an appraisal on a furstole. Vera owned Brazzanella’s Fur Shopon Caroline Street. She did not know mefrom Adam, but that did not stop herfrom bending over backwards to help me.She is that kind of person with everyone,and she has helped me a number of timessince then.

Vera likes people, and throughour many conversations we discoveredthat my great-grandfather on mymother’s side was from Tyrol, Austria,where Vera’s family is from. From then onshe has called me “cousin.” It’s an honor.

Vera was born in 1918 inRockbridge County, Virginia, where herfather and his brother had a farmtogether. Eventually, they traded thatproperty for a farm in Mineral. Thebrothers took the train to Mineral andloaded their family and possessions on ahorse- drawn wagon that promptly brokedown in the middle of the night in front ofa house in Mineral. They woke up theowner of the house and explained thatthey had traded their farm for the Nixonfarm nearby. The man loaned them hiswagon and went back to bed. When hiswife asked what happened, he explainedthe story and then said, “These folks areoff to the Nixon farm where they willstarve to death.” It didn’t happen.

The brothers farmed and set up atannery. In 1932 Vera’s father decided tomove his family to Fredericksburg. Bythen Vera was thirteen. She said, “Welooked like the Beverley Hillbillies coming

to Fredericksburg.” They rented711 Caroline (today’s RichardJohnson Inn) for $25.00 amonth.

It had electricity,running water, and indoorplumbing, which were amenitiesthey did not have in Mineral.Vera and her sisters Ester andPolly slept in the attic for sixyears without heat. Still, theyfelt rich. Ester passed away in1978, but Polly is very muchalive at 89. Polly refers toherself as “the brat’ having beenthe youngest sister. Veragraduated from FredericksburgHigh School in 1935. She is oneof only three survivors of thatclass. Vera married EdwardWay, a local boy, in 1939, whoworked at the FMC plant. He was

severely wounded in World War II, butrecovered and went back to his job. Hepassed away in 1966.

Because of their tanneryexperience, Vera’s mother startedrepairing furs and sewing them togetherto make coats. In 1936 they opened thefur shop, where Vera worked for years andeventually took over. They never had toadvertise. People from here to DC andbeyond found them. She sold the location2009.

Vera has lived on Caroline for 82years and seems to know almosteverybody downtown. Many friends cameto her birthday party at Brock’s, and theytook turns getting up and telling storiesabout her. All the stories seemed to endwith uproarious laughter from the crowd.The general agreement is that Vera owes

her long life to a positive attitude. Onefriend warned everyone, though, not tocall her during The Young and theRestless, because you will have to call backlater if you want to talk to her. Anotherfriend told us the most important thingshe learned from Vera is all problemsresolve themselves, and it is useless toworry about them. I believe that anothersecret of Vera’s longevity is thatmischievous twinkle in her eye.

I want to be Vera Way when Igrow up.

Archer Di Peppe writes about porchpeople, collectibles, and personal

experiences.

6 October 2013 Front porch fredericksburg front porch fredericksburg October 2013 7

Quiet MomentsVera way at ninety five

By archer di peppe

FREDERICKSBURG

My wife and I were delighted toreceive an invitation to Vera Way’s ninety-fifth birthday party in September. I firstmet Vera fifteen years ago when I wasdoing research for an appraisal on a furstole. Vera owned Brazzanella’s Fur Shopon Caroline Street. She did not know mefrom Adam, but that did not stop herfrom bending over backwards to help me.She is that kind of person with everyone,and she has helped me a number of timessince then.

Vera likes people, and throughour many conversations we discoveredthat my great-grandfather on mymother’s side was from Tyrol, Austria,where Vera’s family is from. From then onshe has called me “cousin.” It’s an honor.

Vera was born in 1918 inRockbridge County, Virginia, where herfather and his brother had a farmtogether. Eventually, they traded thatproperty for a farm in Mineral. Thebrothers took the train to Mineral andloaded their family and possessions on ahorse- drawn wagon that promptly brokedown in the middle of the night in front ofa house in Mineral. They woke up theowner of the house and explained thatthey had traded their farm for the Nixonfarm nearby. The man loaned them hiswagon and went back to bed. When hiswife asked what happened, he explainedthe story and then said, “These folks areoff to the Nixon farm where they willstarve to death.” It didn’t happen.

The brothers farmed and set up atannery. In 1932 Vera’s father decided tomove his family to Fredericksburg. Bythen Vera was thirteen. She said, “Welooked like the Beverley Hillbillies coming

to Fredericksburg.” They rented711 Caroline (today’s RichardJohnson Inn) for $25.00 amonth.

It had electricity,running water, and indoorplumbing, which were amenitiesthey did not have in Mineral.Vera and her sisters Ester andPolly slept in the attic for sixyears without heat. Still, theyfelt rich. Ester passed away in1978, but Polly is very muchalive at 89. Polly refers toherself as “the brat’ having beenthe youngest sister. Veragraduated from FredericksburgHigh School in 1935. She is oneof only three survivors of thatclass. Vera married EdwardWay, a local boy, in 1939, whoworked at the FMC plant. He was

severely wounded in World War II, butrecovered and went back to his job. Hepassed away in 1966.

Because of their tanneryexperience, Vera’s mother startedrepairing furs and sewing them togetherto make coats. In 1936 they opened thefur shop, where Vera worked for years andeventually took over. They never had toadvertise. People from here to DC andbeyond found them. She sold the location2009.

Vera has lived on Caroline for 82years and seems to know almosteverybody downtown. Many friends cameto her birthday party at Brock’s, and theytook turns getting up and telling storiesabout her. All the stories seemed to endwith uproarious laughter from the crowd.The general agreement is that Vera owes

her long life to a positive attitude. Onefriend warned everyone, though, not tocall her during The Young and theRestless, because you will have to call backlater if you want to talk to her. Anotherfriend told us the most important thingshe learned from Vera is all problemsresolve themselves, and it is useless toworry about them. I believe that anothersecret of Vera’s longevity is thatmischievous twinkle in her eye.

I want to be Vera Way when Igrow up.

Archer Di Peppe writes about porchpeople, collectibles, and personal

experiences.


Quiet MomentsVera way at ninety five

By archer di peppe

FREDERICKSBURG

Late last spring, a seventeen year-old-girl who has had trouble connecting tothe world around her found Liberty TownArts Workshop. The young woman felt akindred spirit amongst the artists whowelcomed her. Potter Beth Perlazza firsttook her in, and then painter Bill Harrisopened her eyes to the power of painting.Now, Kellen Gerenser wants to be anartist.

Kellen isn’t your typical teenagegirl. She’s special. The James Monroe HighSchool junior has a voracious appetite forthe undiscovered, the spirituality, and theartistry of life. She’s a spiritual empath,someone who is so connected to thefeelings of those around her that she caninnately appreciate emotion that is nother own. Kellen is also a WilliamsSyndrome child.

Early on in her infancy, Kellendistinguished herself as atypical. “Kellenwas always irritable, always crying, andwouldn’t eat when she was an infant,” hermother, Lisa, remembers in a sitting roomat Liberty Town. Through a series oftests, it was discovered that Kellen wasmissing the elastin gene on one side ofchromosome 7. Williams Syndrome is arare genetic disorder that displays a rangeof ability levels in the individual, but

Kellen is one of thefortunate ones who hasher health.

Supported by herfather, Bob, her mother,and her older sister, Kara,Kellen exemplifies thenotion that anything ispossible. She was recentlyconsidered by the SpecialOlympic community to bea Global Messenger forthe program. When theyasked during herinterview what she likedbest about her

experiences within the Special Olympics,she said, “I feel everything I do is the bestthing I’ve ever done.” That spirit won thecommittee over, and last week, Kellen waschosen to represent the Special Olympics.Not to be over-shadowed, some of her

long-running passions also include piano,high school band, soccer, golf, tennis,basketball, skiing, and now, painting.

“If you ask Kellen, her world is‘wonderful’,” says her mother. It’simportant to note because Kellen, likeevery teenager, has experienced the trialsand tribulations of being special,misunderstood, and misrepresented. Manyof her peers at school aren’t sure how tospeak to Kellen or how to interact withher. There are a few, however, who bringjoy to Kellen’s heart. Whether it is anafternoon spent in downtownFredericksburg or a “C’mon, Kellen, let’sgo do an interview,” in her yearbook class,Kellen’s world is enhanced by those whoappreciate the beauty she brings to theirs.

“She is so worldly, spirited, andjoyful, and she is just the best to bearound,” says long-time friend, and J.M.junior Jory Owen. Junior Emily Frankagrees. “Her quiet but observantpersonality allows her to come up withhilarious questions and comments thatbrighten anyone’s day.”

The girl, who in second grade wasfearful of her art classroom, now wants tobe in the positively bustling atmosphere ofLiberty Town Arts. She loves beingamongst the creative sect. Bill Harris hastaught her to mix paints and shade in ona canvas. Most recently, Kellen ran intohim while he painted in downtownFredericksburg for “Art Attack.” Afterexplaining what he was doing with hispaints, he had Kellen sit down and shade ina portion of his painting of a youngwoman. “Seeing Kellen paint reminds meof why I paint,” Harris says. “Artists createbecause it makes them happy. They haveto do it. It doesn’t matter if anybody elselikes it; it only matters that it makes ushappy.”

Ever on the quest forimprovement, Kellen finds her relief andher happiness in her newfound talent. Infact, the little girl who wanted to becomea surgeon, then a waitress, now seesherself happily situated as an artist post-graduation.

Katie Hornung teaches at the JamesMonroe High School.


Anything is Possibleatypical teen kellen gerenser

by katie hornung

GOT HISTORY?Follow in the Steps of the Founding Fathers in the Age of Enlightenment and beyond.

211 Caroline Street"The Goolrick-Caldwell House". Circa 1787. always a

fashionable address over the centuries. Freedom ringsout from this three-story Federal house that is spaciousyet comfortable and intimate. Two of our city mayors,Peter Goolrick and John Caldwell, have resided here

and enjoyed the river view.$895,000.

"White Plains Farm".Circa 1720. Gentleman's

Farm of 38 acres in King GeorgeCounty. A stately Colonial

house that speaks toPreservationists and

transports you to the erawhen George was King.

$495,000..

1107 Princess Anne Street"The Charles Dick House".

Circa 1750. A Patriotic Salute to thisresidence steeped in the early history

of Fredericksburg. Spacious 5-bedroom house with carriage houseapartment and garage. Dine where

President George Washington"supped" in 1771.

$1,180.000.

709 Caroline Street

One of John Tayloe's "Seven Sisters"buildings in the heart of the DowntownHistoric business district. Circa 1782. Revolutionary Idea - Stop commuting.

Live upstairs and work downstairs in thisstylish building located across

from the Visitors Center.$650,000.

2010 Fall Hill Avenue"Elmhurst". Circa 1871. Reconstruction of

the Good Life by Washington Elms of SaratogaSprings, New York. This lovely Italianate housewith its own tower was completely rehabbed in

2006 and placed on the National Register. It boasts the biggest FRONT PORCH in town.

$1,250,000. owner/broker

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND OTHER PROPERTIES, PLEASE CONTACT

THE MOTHER-DAUGHTER TEAM,SUSAN AND ANNE MORGAN PATES

SUSAN, 540.809.9443, [email protected] MORGAN, 540.836.5700; [email protected]

606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg

373-7847

www.gemstonecreations.org

Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesday 10-6:30

WWeellccoommee FFaallll with Trollbeads

tthhee oorr ii gg iinnaall bbeeaadd bbrraacc ee ll ee tt

Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged

Late last spring, a seventeen year-old-girl who has had trouble connecting tothe world around her found Liberty TownArts Workshop. The young woman felt akindred spirit amongst the artists whowelcomed her. Potter Beth Perlazza firsttook her in, and then painter Bill Harrisopened her eyes to the power of painting.Now, Kellen Gerenser wants to be anartist.

Kellen isn’t your typical teenagegirl. She’s special. The James Monroe HighSchool junior has a voracious appetite forthe undiscovered, the spirituality, and theartistry of life. She’s a spiritual empath,someone who is so connected to thefeelings of those around her that she caninnately appreciate emotion that is nother own. Kellen is also a WilliamsSyndrome child.

Early on in her infancy, Kellendistinguished herself as atypical. “Kellenwas always irritable, always crying, andwouldn’t eat when she was an infant,” hermother, Lisa, remembers in a sitting roomat Liberty Town. Through a series oftests, it was discovered that Kellen wasmissing the elastin gene on one side ofchromosome 7. Williams Syndrome is arare genetic disorder that displays a rangeof ability levels in the individual, but

Kellen is one of thefortunate ones who hasher health.

Supported by herfather, Bob, her mother,and her older sister, Kara,Kellen exemplifies thenotion that anything ispossible. She was recentlyconsidered by the SpecialOlympic community to bea Global Messenger forthe program. When theyasked during herinterview what she likedbest about her

experiences within the Special Olympics,she said, “I feel everything I do is the bestthing I’ve ever done.” That spirit won thecommittee over, and last week, Kellen waschosen to represent the Special Olympics.Not to be over-shadowed, some of her

long-running passions also include piano,high school band, soccer, golf, tennis,basketball, skiing, and now, painting.

“If you ask Kellen, her world is‘wonderful’,” says her mother. It’simportant to note because Kellen, likeevery teenager, has experienced the trialsand tribulations of being special,misunderstood, and misrepresented. Manyof her peers at school aren’t sure how tospeak to Kellen or how to interact withher. There are a few, however, who bringjoy to Kellen’s heart. Whether it is anafternoon spent in downtownFredericksburg or a “C’mon, Kellen, let’sgo do an interview,” in her yearbook class,Kellen’s world is enhanced by those whoappreciate the beauty she brings to theirs.

“She is so worldly, spirited, andjoyful, and she is just the best to bearound,” says long-time friend, and J.M.junior Jory Owen. Junior Emily Frankagrees. “Her quiet but observantpersonality allows her to come up withhilarious questions and comments thatbrighten anyone’s day.”

The girl, who in second grade wasfearful of her art classroom, now wants tobe in the positively bustling atmosphere ofLiberty Town Arts. She loves beingamongst the creative sect. Bill Harris hastaught her to mix paints and shade in ona canvas. Most recently, Kellen ran intohim while he painted in downtownFredericksburg for “Art Attack.” Afterexplaining what he was doing with hispaints, he had Kellen sit down and shade ina portion of his painting of a youngwoman. “Seeing Kellen paint reminds meof why I paint,” Harris says. “Artists createbecause it makes them happy. They haveto do it. It doesn’t matter if anybody elselikes it; it only matters that it makes ushappy.”

Ever on the quest forimprovement, Kellen finds her relief andher happiness in her newfound talent. Infact, the little girl who wanted to becomea surgeon, then a waitress, now seesherself happily situated as an artist post-graduation.

Katie Hornung teaches at the JamesMonroe High School.


Anything is Possibleatypical teen kellen gerenser

by katie hornung

GOT HISTORY?Follow in the Steps of the Founding Fathers in the Age of Enlightenment and beyond.

211 Caroline Street"The Goolrick-Caldwell House". Circa 1787. always a

fashionable address over the centuries. Freedom ringsout from this three-story Federal house that is spaciousyet comfortable and intimate. Two of our city mayors,Peter Goolrick and John Caldwell, have resided here

and enjoyed the river view.$895,000.

"White Plains Farm".Circa 1720. Gentleman's

Farm of 38 acres in King GeorgeCounty. A stately Colonial

house that speaks toPreservationists and

transports you to the erawhen George was King.

$495,000..

1107 Princess Anne Street"The Charles Dick House".

Circa 1750. A Patriotic Salute to thisresidence steeped in the early history

of Fredericksburg. Spacious 5-bedroom house with carriage houseapartment and garage. Dine where

President George Washington"supped" in 1771.

$1,180.000.

709 Caroline Street

One of John Tayloe's "Seven Sisters"buildings in the heart of the DowntownHistoric business district. Circa 1782. Revolutionary Idea - Stop commuting.

Live upstairs and work downstairs in thisstylish building located across

from the Visitors Center.$650,000.

2010 Fall Hill Avenue"Elmhurst". Circa 1871. Reconstruction of

the Good Life by Washington Elms of SaratogaSprings, New York. This lovely Italianate housewith its own tower was completely rehabbed in

2006 and placed on the National Register. It boasts the biggest FRONT PORCH in town.

$1,250,000. owner/broker

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND OTHER PROPERTIES, PLEASE CONTACT

THE MOTHER-DAUGHTER TEAM,SUSAN AND ANNE MORGAN PATES

SUSAN, 540.809.9443, [email protected] MORGAN, 540.836.5700; [email protected]

606 Caroline Street Old Town Fredericksburg

373-7847

www.gemstonecreations.org

Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 Wednesday 10-6:30

WWeellccoommee FFaallll with Trollbeads

tthhee oorr ii gg iinnaall bbeeaadd bbrraacc ee ll ee tt

Where Fredericksburg Gets Engaged

front porch fredericksburg October 2013 11

Henry James had his definition of“gracious twaddle.” His term applies wellto what I find in a women’s clothingstore. A size 2 is, in fact, a size 10. What?The women’s clothes sizers, and they varyfrom brand to brand, call that “vanitysizing.” Well, let’s be real. It is moronic.Even Katherine Graham had negativecomments on the lowly subject of sizings.My personal favorite, however, is that agarment “sits at the natural waist, justbelow the navel,” and is, of course, a size 2or thereabouts. When did a woman’swaist demarcation begin at herpelvis? Scarlett O’Hara and Mammywasted a precious lot of time cinchingScarlett’s waist back in the day. Obviouslythey were not aware the waist is not theindentation at the torso, which MissScarlett, Magna Idiot, wished to be 18inches or less, but rather at the bellybutton or lower. Many young girls, andunfortunately not so young whom I’veseen, subscribe to the natural waist at thepelvis theory and have shirts riding upona roll of fish-belly-white fat spillingbetween too short top and “sits at naturalwaist” jeans. Beauty is their business.

I’m not through with this whine,so go get a piece of really elegant cheeseto nibble whilst I continue to pour iton. Hemlines. Is this truly the era of let’smake women about as ugly aspossible? First the pelvic belly buttonwaist and now, show the knees. A knee,complex and essential though it may be,has something in common with theelbow. They are both as pretty as anarmadillo. The Weather Channel’s fashionde rigueur for weather women is fullMonty knee. One has to wonder why. Tomodify the full bare knees, or mollify asthe case may be, the hems of dresses havebecome “uneven.” This requires a train-like cloth in back of the front of the frock.Yes, you read that correctly, and the lookmatches the description. Awful. Skirtshave the same weird asymmetricalcut. Now combine that with “naturalwaist at the navel.” A blouse comes withthat all pointy hem up and down allaround. Not to be left out are the leatherlace up booties. Close to combat style.

Judy Garland in a semi-odd outfitgot on an elevator with Liza herdaughter. As Liza tells it some Hollywood

crone asked Judy who designed heroutfit. Without missing a beat, Judyreplied, “Walt Disney.” Who designedthese fashions? Had to be the MisogynistsLimited, and that rumbling sound beneaththe earth you feel is not an earthquake, itis doyenne Coco Chanel rolling around inher grave. But, be of goodcheer. Beautiful clothes for young womenand old can be had at J. PetermanCompany. Yep, the same firm with whichElaine of Seinfeld worked. On that note Ishall take my Peterman catalogue and goout here to peruse its glory, retired andbuck naked on the back porch.

Jo Middleton’s beloved R&BNOTBP issuper-sized with humor.

10 October 2013 Front porch fredericksburg

38 years ago, Vimala Ren Fields(iat left) moved to Fredericksburg with apassion for yoga and meditation. At thetime, Fredericksburg was very different.“There was no yoga. There was no CentralPark. The river and the people kept mehere,” Fields said.

She never imagined, after almostfour decades, that she would be the face ofmeditation and yoga in Fredericksburg,still teaching dozens of student everyweek.

Living in Charlottesville at 16,Fields was a devotional child who went tochurch frequently. When she discoveredyoga, she found “it seemed to be abeautiful way to go deeper into prayer,”said Fields. She contacted the Self-Realization Fellowship in California andwas sent meditation lessons for a full year.

She moved to Norfolk to studydance Old Dominion University. Soon,yoga and meditation became thecenterpiece of her life. One afternoon,while walking to rehearsal, she passed aroom with people sitting in a circlemeditating. “I skipped my rehearsal and Iwent in, sat down and meditated,” Fieldssaid. “Most people start yoga by going to

a posture class where you’re movingaround. I came in for meditation.”

In Fredericksburg, Fields beganteaching dance and yoga at the MarshaSue Dance School in Stafford beforeopening her own studio. There were onlyfour people in her first class. “Peoplewould call me and ask ‘What’s Yogurt?’”she laughs. “They didn’t even know what itwas. I had to do a lot of footwork inFredericksburg because I was the first one.”

Fields began teaching theFredericksburg community that yoga wassafe and was not a religion. “I’m nottrying to teach religion. It’s a time to bequiet and reflective. It’s a time to goinward to seek answers, to praise theuniverse and beauty and be filled withgratitude. Through posture and breathwork, meditation clears the mind andbrings kindness to your heart.”

Yoga is becoming increasinglyprevalent in Fredericksburg. Studios arepopping up throughout town, teachers arefinishing their training and getting hands-on with the practice. “The main thing isthe teacher. People need to find whatclicks for them and what suits them,” shesaid.

Toni Church beganpracticing with Fields three yearsago. “You don’t follow the studio,you follow the teacher. I took oneclass with Ren and fell in love withit,” she said. “She knows whenyou’re slacking. She knows yourabilities and how much you can do.And she will correct you. She’llgive you a look like ‘I know you cando better.’’

To Fields, posture,meditation, and deep relaxationare invaluable during a stressful time.“They help you move through sufferingmore gracefully and into a healed place,”she said. “It’s a journey of the heart.”

By asking what her students aregrateful for, Fields feels it helps themcome to a place where their breathingsoftens and their heart becomes calm. Sheasks to think of a few words to describetheir faith to use while practicing. “If youhave them, you will get 100 times whatyou would during an average exercise.”

Fields has accomplished manylevels of expertise. She is certified in Acu-Yoga with Michael Gach and Integral Yoga.She perfected Structural Yoga with

Mukunda Stiles, and became a certifiedteacher for heart and cancer patients withNichala Davis. She teaches workshops atYogaville outside Charlottesville, and herstudio is a nationally-registered yogateacher school. With her vastaccomplishments and deep adoration forher practice, Fields continues to teach ather studio in the old hospital off Fall HillRoad.

Sara Zolnick is a freelance writer and ayoga student.

T h emiddle blockof Carolinemay appearto haver e m a i n e dstable overthe last fewyears, butthose of uswho shop andp l a yd o w n t o w nknow better.

Stores and owners have come and gone,some have been around for decades,others are open a year or less. One stablespot champions the art community;another is a children’s bookstore. Twonew business fronts — one with a newowner at an existing space, the other at anew location — reside inside 810.

THE MOCK TURTLEI stopped in at The Mock Turtle

and ran into Kathleen Fortune whorecently took over the quality children’sclothing shop. Kathleen fits into the smalltown atmosphere like a hand-in-glove. Shehas never owned a retail store before butis not without experience. She had a caféin upstate NY, worked as a librarydirector, and followed her husbandthrough military service/governmentwork, doing jobs available along the way.She has what we call a myriad of lifeexperience. Only recently, she dealt with alife threatening medical situation. Shesaid the Mock Turtle helped her get backto life.

Why a clothes shop? That answercame with the usual mother stories ofraising three children and having twograndchildren. When she heard the shopwas closing, she was dismayed. This waswhere she had shopped for gifts for alloccasions and just couldn’t see it closing.She went home and told her husband, Ithink I want to buy the shop! So, in Aprilof 2012, she became proud owner of aspace laden with unique goodies forchildren, from fancy dresses to the area’slargest selection of Kidorable rain gear.

Mock Turtle carries all the topchildren’s lines, such as Petunia PickleBottom, a popular line of diaper bags. Thenewest additions include Christening,special occasion and First Communiondresses, boys’ suits and tuxes. Prices aremoderate to high but quality is whatstands out. Can you think of an instancewhere you picked up somethinginexpensive after its first wear andsomething was wrong with it? I can!Apparel at Mock Turtle is well made forpassing down for years to come to thenext lucky kiddo.

ASPETTOThe new shop at 810 is a custom

tailor company. The name is Italian forlooks or appearance. Located in a cornerspot, its presence exudes a much largerscale with the feel of a back shop inLondon or Rome, where James Bond orbetter yet, Daniel Craig, would stop by fora quick fitting. Abbas Haider, President,and Robert Davis, Executive VP, sat downwith me, and explained in detaileverything that is Aspetto.

They started the business whileAbbas was a freshman at UMW, right outof his dorm; Robert joined his senior year.Their business plan for a small businessclass was the original design for these twogents who have quite an understanding ofthe textbook side of owning a business,but, as Abbas stressed, are newcomers whoknow there is nothing like the hands-onexperience of owning to make them awareof the real-life aspect of entrepreneurship.That being said, it is always a great thingto see some of the graduates stay in theircollege town and make a go of theirspecialties. They are known for 30measurements per ensemble, designed toensure a perfect, guaranteed fit. Theirmain enterprise is custom-designed suitsfitted and altered on premise. A recentcustomer brought a copy of GQ into theshop and asked if they could replicate asuit in the magazine. They gladlyaccommodated. (View Aspetto onfacebook and at shopaspetto.com

Mary Lynn Powers frequently writesabout small businesses in the Burg.

810 Carolineold building revisited

Bymary lynn powers

Vimala Ren Fields:Medicine for the mind and Soul

by sara zolnick

Retired & Buck NakedRetired & Buck NakedOn The Back Porch

size matters

by jo middleton

Jewel Box Since 1940

Your Hometown Jeweler

On-Premise Jewelry Repair

Watch Batteries

Gold Buying

Engraving

212 William Street,Fredericksburg540-373-5513

Mon-Fri 9-5:30; Sat 9-5

front porch fredericksburg October 2013 11

Henry James had his definition of“gracious twaddle.” His term applies wellto what I find in a women’s clothingstore. A size 2 is, in fact, a size 10. What?The women’s clothes sizers, and they varyfrom brand to brand, call that “vanitysizing.” Well, let’s be real. It is moronic.Even Katherine Graham had negativecomments on the lowly subject of sizings.My personal favorite, however, is that agarment “sits at the natural waist, justbelow the navel,” and is, of course, a size 2or thereabouts. When did a woman’swaist demarcation begin at herpelvis? Scarlett O’Hara and Mammywasted a precious lot of time cinchingScarlett’s waist back in the day. Obviouslythey were not aware the waist is not theindentation at the torso, which MissScarlett, Magna Idiot, wished to be 18inches or less, but rather at the bellybutton or lower. Many young girls, andunfortunately not so young whom I’veseen, subscribe to the natural waist at thepelvis theory and have shirts riding upona roll of fish-belly-white fat spillingbetween too short top and “sits at naturalwaist” jeans. Beauty is their business.

I’m not through with this whine,so go get a piece of really elegant cheeseto nibble whilst I continue to pour iton. Hemlines. Is this truly the era of let’smake women about as ugly aspossible? First the pelvic belly buttonwaist and now, show the knees. A knee,complex and essential though it may be,has something in common with theelbow. They are both as pretty as anarmadillo. The Weather Channel’s fashionde rigueur for weather women is fullMonty knee. One has to wonder why. Tomodify the full bare knees, or mollify asthe case may be, the hems of dresses havebecome “uneven.” This requires a train-like cloth in back of the front of the frock.Yes, you read that correctly, and the lookmatches the description. Awful. Skirtshave the same weird asymmetricalcut. Now combine that with “naturalwaist at the navel.” A blouse comes withthat all pointy hem up and down allaround. Not to be left out are the leatherlace up booties. Close to combat style.

Judy Garland in a semi-odd outfitgot on an elevator with Liza herdaughter. As Liza tells it some Hollywood

crone asked Judy who designed heroutfit. Without missing a beat, Judyreplied, “Walt Disney.” Who designedthese fashions? Had to be the MisogynistsLimited, and that rumbling sound beneaththe earth you feel is not an earthquake, itis doyenne Coco Chanel rolling around inher grave. But, be of goodcheer. Beautiful clothes for young womenand old can be had at J. PetermanCompany. Yep, the same firm with whichElaine of Seinfeld worked. On that note Ishall take my Peterman catalogue and goout here to peruse its glory, retired andbuck naked on the back porch.

Jo Middleton’s beloved R&BNOTBP issuper-sized with humor.

10 October 2013 Front porch fredericksburg

38 years ago, Vimala Ren Fields(iat left) moved to Fredericksburg with apassion for yoga and meditation. At thetime, Fredericksburg was very different.“There was no yoga. There was no CentralPark. The river and the people kept mehere,” Fields said.

She never imagined, after almostfour decades, that she would be the face ofmeditation and yoga in Fredericksburg,still teaching dozens of student everyweek.

Living in Charlottesville at 16,Fields was a devotional child who went tochurch frequently. When she discoveredyoga, she found “it seemed to be abeautiful way to go deeper into prayer,”said Fields. She contacted the Self-Realization Fellowship in California andwas sent meditation lessons for a full year.

She moved to Norfolk to studydance Old Dominion University. Soon,yoga and meditation became thecenterpiece of her life. One afternoon,while walking to rehearsal, she passed aroom with people sitting in a circlemeditating. “I skipped my rehearsal and Iwent in, sat down and meditated,” Fieldssaid. “Most people start yoga by going to

a posture class where you’re movingaround. I came in for meditation.”

In Fredericksburg, Fields beganteaching dance and yoga at the MarshaSue Dance School in Stafford beforeopening her own studio. There were onlyfour people in her first class. “Peoplewould call me and ask ‘What’s Yogurt?’”she laughs. “They didn’t even know what itwas. I had to do a lot of footwork inFredericksburg because I was the first one.”

Fields began teaching theFredericksburg community that yoga wassafe and was not a religion. “I’m nottrying to teach religion. It’s a time to bequiet and reflective. It’s a time to goinward to seek answers, to praise theuniverse and beauty and be filled withgratitude. Through posture and breathwork, meditation clears the mind andbrings kindness to your heart.”

Yoga is becoming increasinglyprevalent in Fredericksburg. Studios arepopping up throughout town, teachers arefinishing their training and getting hands-on with the practice. “The main thing isthe teacher. People need to find whatclicks for them and what suits them,” shesaid.

Toni Church beganpracticing with Fields three yearsago. “You don’t follow the studio,you follow the teacher. I took oneclass with Ren and fell in love withit,” she said. “She knows whenyou’re slacking. She knows yourabilities and how much you can do.And she will correct you. She’llgive you a look like ‘I know you cando better.’’

To Fields, posture,meditation, and deep relaxationare invaluable during a stressful time.“They help you move through sufferingmore gracefully and into a healed place,”she said. “It’s a journey of the heart.”

By asking what her students aregrateful for, Fields feels it helps themcome to a place where their breathingsoftens and their heart becomes calm. Sheasks to think of a few words to describetheir faith to use while practicing. “If youhave them, you will get 100 times whatyou would during an average exercise.”

Fields has accomplished manylevels of expertise. She is certified in Acu-Yoga with Michael Gach and Integral Yoga.She perfected Structural Yoga with

Mukunda Stiles, and became a certifiedteacher for heart and cancer patients withNichala Davis. She teaches workshops atYogaville outside Charlottesville, and herstudio is a nationally-registered yogateacher school. With her vastaccomplishments and deep adoration forher practice, Fields continues to teach ather studio in the old hospital off Fall HillRoad.

Sara Zolnick is a freelance writer and ayoga student.

T h emiddle blockof Carolinemay appearto haver e m a i n e dstable overthe last fewyears, butthose of uswho shop andp l a yd o w n t o w nknow better.

Stores and owners have come and gone,some have been around for decades,others are open a year or less. One stablespot champions the art community;another is a children’s bookstore. Twonew business fronts — one with a newowner at an existing space, the other at anew location — reside inside 810.

THE MOCK TURTLEI stopped in at The Mock Turtle

and ran into Kathleen Fortune whorecently took over the quality children’sclothing shop. Kathleen fits into the smalltown atmosphere like a hand-in-glove. Shehas never owned a retail store before butis not without experience. She had a caféin upstate NY, worked as a librarydirector, and followed her husbandthrough military service/governmentwork, doing jobs available along the way.She has what we call a myriad of lifeexperience. Only recently, she dealt with alife threatening medical situation. Shesaid the Mock Turtle helped her get backto life.

Why a clothes shop? That answercame with the usual mother stories ofraising three children and having twograndchildren. When she heard the shopwas closing, she was dismayed. This waswhere she had shopped for gifts for alloccasions and just couldn’t see it closing.She went home and told her husband, Ithink I want to buy the shop! So, in Aprilof 2012, she became proud owner of aspace laden with unique goodies forchildren, from fancy dresses to the area’slargest selection of Kidorable rain gear.

Mock Turtle carries all the topchildren’s lines, such as Petunia PickleBottom, a popular line of diaper bags. Thenewest additions include Christening,special occasion and First Communiondresses, boys’ suits and tuxes. Prices aremoderate to high but quality is whatstands out. Can you think of an instancewhere you picked up somethinginexpensive after its first wear andsomething was wrong with it? I can!Apparel at Mock Turtle is well made forpassing down for years to come to thenext lucky kiddo.

ASPETTOThe new shop at 810 is a custom

tailor company. The name is Italian forlooks or appearance. Located in a cornerspot, its presence exudes a much largerscale with the feel of a back shop inLondon or Rome, where James Bond orbetter yet, Daniel Craig, would stop by fora quick fitting. Abbas Haider, President,and Robert Davis, Executive VP, sat downwith me, and explained in detaileverything that is Aspetto.

They started the business whileAbbas was a freshman at UMW, right outof his dorm; Robert joined his senior year.Their business plan for a small businessclass was the original design for these twogents who have quite an understanding ofthe textbook side of owning a business,but, as Abbas stressed, are newcomers whoknow there is nothing like the hands-onexperience of owning to make them awareof the real-life aspect of entrepreneurship.That being said, it is always a great thingto see some of the graduates stay in theircollege town and make a go of theirspecialties. They are known for 30measurements per ensemble, designed toensure a perfect, guaranteed fit. Theirmain enterprise is custom-designed suitsfitted and altered on premise. A recentcustomer brought a copy of GQ into theshop and asked if they could replicate asuit in the magazine. They gladlyaccommodated. (View Aspetto onfacebook and at shopaspetto.com

Mary Lynn Powers frequently writesabout small businesses in the Burg.

810 Carolineold building revisited

Bymary lynn powers

Vimala Ren Fields:Medicine for the mind and Soul

by sara zolnick

Retired & Buck NakedRetired & Buck NakedOn The Back Porch

size matters

by jo middleton

Jewel Box Since 1940

Your Hometown Jeweler

On-Premise Jewelry Repair

Watch Batteries

Gold Buying

Engraving

212 William Street,Fredericksburg540-373-5513

Mon-Fri 9-5:30; Sat 9-5

In a “transition” of my own (livingmy new normal), I get to write

thrice this month for the magazine.– Rob Grogan

While 31-year-old La PetiteAuberge –the standard bearer ofFredericksburg restaurants – wasgently undergoing a makeoverdesigned by artist Jim Eagan and LaPetite marketing manager, JessicaRenault, across the street at 314William, Vivify Burger Lounge washaving its soft opening the day

before Oktoberfest/UMW ParentsWeekend. Both, we are happy toreport, caught smooth sailing for themost part, as Restaurant Row stoodahead of the curve.

Notice the words “sensitive”and “gently” in this narrativeregarding La Petite’s transition. Youknew that when Raymond and Jessicatook over the reigns from ChefChristian, there would be nostalgia,and some resistance to change. JimEagan was the right choice to workoff his own vision and Jessica’sdesigns. All Chef wants is a little sign-off— or veto power. We checked out themain dining room in progress, where thechanges look terrific! Clean, white lines,colorful works of local artwork beneathperfect lighting, and a new chandelier, alllook spankingly handsome to me (for whatit’s worth, Chef). But, if they dare try totake the rock n roll memorabilia down

from the Lounge, I got your back!Meanwhile, across the street, Aby

& Blake Bethem launched their newconcept eatery/night lounge with akickass rooftop bar just a crossingfrom their Bistro at 309 RestaurantRow. Tony Molinaro was the firstcustomer to Vivify. I swappedthumbs-up comments with ChipRemy; Bob & Sally Shope; Jessica,Elias and Lewis Sutton; and GeorgeSnead and Andy Withers, amongothers that sunny Thursday, Sept.26.

We took our camera to bothestablishments.

PHOTOS: Bob Shope and his wifeSally (Chef Blake’s Mom) proudlyVivify on opening day; Chip Remy

found the rooftop bar a bigattraction on a beautiful afternoon.

PHOTOS: The new view through thebar at La Petite; New art in thenewly made-over dining room.

By press time, both restaurantswere in high gear, much to the CityTreasurer’s delight. - RG


On Restaurant Rowa sensitive makeover,

a soft opening

By rob grogan

SSammy ammy T’T’ ssServing Great Food Since 1981

801 Caroline Street (540) 371-2008

Try Our Self-Serve Yogurtopen 11:30 am Daily

Still Owned by the Emory Family

DOWNTOWN FREDERICKSBURG’S

Home of the “Camper Special” & the Best Burger in Town

Season’s BountyPass the pecan pie

By vanessa moncureHappy, happy, happy - Brunswick,

MO is advertising its 33rd Annual PecanFestival the first weekend of October inDuck Dynasty style. Didn’t you knowBrunswick is the Pecan Capital ofMissouri? And home of The World’sLargest Pecan? Groves, Texas; Colfax,Louisiana; closer to home Hickman,Kentucky and Whiteville, North Carolinaalso share festivals from September toNovember, harvest time for the pecan,fruit of the pecan tree, member of thehickory genus.

Wild pecan trees are native to themid-eastern and southern US. The nutshave been considered a delicacy sinceColonial times. Thomas Jefferson plantedthem at Monticello, then passed seeds toGeorge Washington, who planted them atMount Vernon. Today, the US producesup to 95% of the world’s supply, althoughthe pecan did not become a cultivatedcrop until late 19th century. Nutritionallyrich, full of antioxidents, a daily 3-oz.serving may reduce cholesterol as much asmedication. Studies ongoing note pecansprotect neurological function as one ages,and preserve nerve function. Pass thepecan pie!

Pecans are great tossed in salads,candied in pralines, used as nut flour, inmultitudes of sweet and savory dishes.Florence, SC has an annual Pecan Cook-Off- Sweet and Sour Cocktail Nuts, Pecan-Crusted Tilapia, Whole Wheat Pecan Breadand many variations of the ubiquitousPecan Pie. Kentucky’s famed Derby Pie isa chocolate-added variation - every JuniorLeague cookbook in the South has severalpages of “the best Pecan Pie.” And I betthey didn’t know they were lowering theircholesterol with every bite.

JUNIOR LEAGUE BEST PECAN PIEPrepare 9” unbaked pie shell and

fill with 1 ½ c. whole pecans or coarselychopped.. Preheat oven to 350F. Combine4 well-beaten large eggs with 1 c. darkbrown sugar, 1 ½ c. dark corn syrup orKing syrup, 2 T. melted butter, 2 t. vanillaand a pinch of salt then pour over thenuts in the pie shell. Bake until brownedand center is firm, about 55 minutes. Letcool before cutting.

WITH A LITTLE BIT OF DERBY GOING ONAdd 1 C semisweet chocolate

chips to pecans, using recipe above. Servewith freshly whipped sweet cream.

AND A LITTLE BIT OF GERMAN AFTER THAT

Prepare pecan pie mix, using lightbrown sugar, white syrup instead of dark.Place pecans in pie shell w/ 1 C. shredded

coconut, one chopped German sweetchocolate bar (8 oz.). Bake as directed;cut when cooled.

CHEESE WAFERSGrate 16 oz. sharp or very sharp

cheddar cheese. (Do not use pre-shredded,will be too dry). Combine with 1 c.softened butter, 4 c. flour, 1 tsp each saltand cayenne pepper. Mix together untilsmooth. Form into 2-inch round rolls andseal in waxed paper. Refrigerate at leastfour hours or overnight. Slice into ¼”slices, place on parchment-covered bakingsheets and top each with a pecan half.Bake in preheated 425F oven until lightlybrowned. (5-7 min). Let cool and storeairtight - makes approximately 12 dozen.

SPICED PECANSIn medium bowl, place 2 T.

canola oil, 1 ½ tsp. each curry powder,worchestershire sauce, cayenne pepperand a dash of salt. Toss well with 1 poundpecan halves, then turn onto parchmentcovered baking sheet in a single layer.Bake in preheated 300F oven for approx.20 minutes or until lightly browned. Turnonto paper-towel covered plate and letcool. Store airtight.

PECAN-CCRUSTED TILAPIAIf you can find it, use pecan flour;

if not, grind ½ c. pecan pieces inblender/spice mill. Mix w/ ½ c. pankocrumbs and ¼ c. fine breadcrumbs, dashof salt, ½ tsp. each cayenne pepper,granulated garlic, curry powder, dash ofsalt. Preheat 4 T. canola oil in large fryingpan. Beat 2 egg whites until foamy. Dipeach of 8 tilapia filets in egg whites, thenpecan mixture. Place in preheated pan,brown on both sides, turning once. If fishnot done, finish off on baking sheet in325F oven. Serve w/ wild rice, haricotsvert. Sprinkle fish w/toasted pecans,minced parsley; add wedge of lemon to theside.

Vanessa Moncure is pecan dandy in the kitchen.

Olde Towne BUTCHERTailgate Headquarters

Corner of William & Charles Street Fredericksburg, VA 22401

540.370.4105

www.oldetownebutcher.com

Open: 9am - 9pm Monday through Saturday11am - 6pm Sunday

Lee Russell Proprietor

How to dry-age beef and keep the grill master cooking

The weather has turned and theleaves are beginning to change. The hotsummer days are gone, and with thatcomes the next season of food. Waftingaromas of steaks, stews, and braised lambshanks (upcoming articles) fill my housewith a cozy warmth that only comes fromthese heavier types of foods. But it is stillwarm enough to get outside and grill!Right?

Of course it is! However, for thisdish, you must have forethought andplanning a month or more in advance.

Most meats are wet-aged. We areall familiar with meats that have beenpackaged in plastic and sometimes have anabsorbent lining at the bottom of thepackage. Because the meat is in constantcontact with its own juices, wet-agingtends to spoil the meat relatively quickly.Another type of aging is called dry-aging.

Lots of people have heard aboutdry-aging and some have enjoyed thedeliciously tender rich meats. At over$26.00 per pound at the grocery store,this delicacy might look like it is out of thebudget for a family. If you learn how todry-age, and are patient, you might beable to create this treat yourself. Thereare different ways to dry-age. Hanging themeat in a cooler, hanging it in thepresence of salt blocks, and wrapping it ina permeable membrane, like cheese cloth,are a few. We will go over the wrappingmethod because it is the easiest do do athome unless you have a walk-inrefrigerator. Why dry-age though?

When you dry-age beef, twothings are happening. First, the meat isbeing dehydrated. With this loss ofmoisture the beef flavors are more intense

and pronounced. A piece of meat that hasbeen dry-aging for a month can lose up to30% of its weight. The second thinghappening is the natural enzymes in thebeef are breaking down the all theconnective tissues in the muscle resultingin an even more tender cut of meat. Thispart of the process means that you canget a much cheaper quality of meat thatwill produce the most tender andsucculent beef available.

Here is the secret. First, pick upa select or choice boneless beef rib or loinroast. I used a ribeye for this picture.Next, wash the meat with cool water andpat dry. Take a cheese cloth and looselywrap the meat about three times. Place arack on a cookie sheet and place the meaton the rack so that it is elevated above thecookie sheet. The key is that there isairflow all the way around the meat. Thetemperature needed to dry-age is between33 and 37 degrees. Our own refrigeratoris the perfect place to let the magichappen. Every day or so unwrap andrewrap the meat in the same cheese clothuntil it becomes too soiled and thenreplace it.

Dry-aging should be done for aminimum of seven days and can go as longas 60. I like around 30. Realize that thelonger you let it age the more happens, toinclude the outside looking gross andmaybe even smelling a little foul. That isOK. Simply cut through the crust that hasbeen created to a dry portion of the meatand discard the cuttings. What you areleft with is the richest beef on the planet!Fire up the grill and enjoy!

Kyle Snyder appeals to your palate andyour other senses when it comes to

good, simple, healthy eating.

Cooking With KyleSimple cooking done well

by james kyle snyder

720 Littlepage sunkenwelltavern.com 540-370-0911Eat Well Drink Well Live Well

The Sunken Well Tavern

In a “transition” of my own (livingmy new normal), I get to write

thrice this month for the magazine.– Rob Grogan

While 31-year-old La PetiteAuberge –the standard bearer ofFredericksburg restaurants – wasgently undergoing a makeoverdesigned by artist Jim Eagan and LaPetite marketing manager, JessicaRenault, across the street at 314William, Vivify Burger Lounge washaving its soft opening the day

before Oktoberfest/UMW ParentsWeekend. Both, we are happy toreport, caught smooth sailing for themost part, as Restaurant Row stoodahead of the curve.

Notice the words “sensitive”and “gently” in this narrativeregarding La Petite’s transition. Youknew that when Raymond and Jessicatook over the reigns from ChefChristian, there would be nostalgia,and some resistance to change. JimEagan was the right choice to workoff his own vision and Jessica’sdesigns. All Chef wants is a little sign-off— or veto power. We checked out themain dining room in progress, where thechanges look terrific! Clean, white lines,colorful works of local artwork beneathperfect lighting, and a new chandelier, alllook spankingly handsome to me (for whatit’s worth, Chef). But, if they dare try totake the rock n roll memorabilia down

from the Lounge, I got your back!Meanwhile, across the street, Aby

& Blake Bethem launched their newconcept eatery/night lounge with akickass rooftop bar just a crossingfrom their Bistro at 309 RestaurantRow. Tony Molinaro was the firstcustomer to Vivify. I swappedthumbs-up comments with ChipRemy; Bob & Sally Shope; Jessica,Elias and Lewis Sutton; and GeorgeSnead and Andy Withers, amongothers that sunny Thursday, Sept.26.

We took our camera to bothestablishments.

PHOTOS: Bob Shope and his wifeSally (Chef Blake’s Mom) proudlyVivify on opening day; Chip Remy

found the rooftop bar a bigattraction on a beautiful afternoon.

PHOTOS: The new view through thebar at La Petite; New art in thenewly made-over dining room.

By press time, both restaurantswere in high gear, much to the CityTreasurer’s delight. - RG


On Restaurant Rowa sensitive makeover,

a soft opening

By rob grogan

SSammy ammy T’T’ ssServing Great Food Since 1981

801 Caroline Street (540) 371-2008

Try Our Self-Serve Yogurtopen 11:30 am Daily

Still Owned by the Emory Family

DOWNTOWN FREDERICKSBURG’S

Home of the “Camper Special” & the Best Burger in Town

Season’s BountyPass the pecan pie

By vanessa moncureHappy, happy, happy - Brunswick,

MO is advertising its 33rd Annual PecanFestival the first weekend of October inDuck Dynasty style. Didn’t you knowBrunswick is the Pecan Capital ofMissouri? And home of The World’sLargest Pecan? Groves, Texas; Colfax,Louisiana; closer to home Hickman,Kentucky and Whiteville, North Carolinaalso share festivals from September toNovember, harvest time for the pecan,fruit of the pecan tree, member of thehickory genus.

Wild pecan trees are native to themid-eastern and southern US. The nutshave been considered a delicacy sinceColonial times. Thomas Jefferson plantedthem at Monticello, then passed seeds toGeorge Washington, who planted them atMount Vernon. Today, the US producesup to 95% of the world’s supply, althoughthe pecan did not become a cultivatedcrop until late 19th century. Nutritionallyrich, full of antioxidents, a daily 3-oz.serving may reduce cholesterol as much asmedication. Studies ongoing note pecansprotect neurological function as one ages,and preserve nerve function. Pass thepecan pie!

Pecans are great tossed in salads,candied in pralines, used as nut flour, inmultitudes of sweet and savory dishes.Florence, SC has an annual Pecan Cook-Off- Sweet and Sour Cocktail Nuts, Pecan-Crusted Tilapia, Whole Wheat Pecan Breadand many variations of the ubiquitousPecan Pie. Kentucky’s famed Derby Pie isa chocolate-added variation - every JuniorLeague cookbook in the South has severalpages of “the best Pecan Pie.” And I betthey didn’t know they were lowering theircholesterol with every bite.

JUNIOR LEAGUE BEST PECAN PIEPrepare 9” unbaked pie shell and

fill with 1 ½ c. whole pecans or coarselychopped.. Preheat oven to 350F. Combine4 well-beaten large eggs with 1 c. darkbrown sugar, 1 ½ c. dark corn syrup orKing syrup, 2 T. melted butter, 2 t. vanillaand a pinch of salt then pour over thenuts in the pie shell. Bake until brownedand center is firm, about 55 minutes. Letcool before cutting.

WITH A LITTLE BIT OF DERBY GOING ONAdd 1 C semisweet chocolate

chips to pecans, using recipe above. Servewith freshly whipped sweet cream.

AND A LITTLE BIT OF GERMAN AFTER THAT

Prepare pecan pie mix, using lightbrown sugar, white syrup instead of dark.Place pecans in pie shell w/ 1 C. shredded

coconut, one chopped German sweetchocolate bar (8 oz.). Bake as directed;cut when cooled.

CHEESE WAFERSGrate 16 oz. sharp or very sharp

cheddar cheese. (Do not use pre-shredded,will be too dry). Combine with 1 c.softened butter, 4 c. flour, 1 tsp each saltand cayenne pepper. Mix together untilsmooth. Form into 2-inch round rolls andseal in waxed paper. Refrigerate at leastfour hours or overnight. Slice into ¼”slices, place on parchment-covered bakingsheets and top each with a pecan half.Bake in preheated 425F oven until lightlybrowned. (5-7 min). Let cool and storeairtight - makes approximately 12 dozen.

SPICED PECANSIn medium bowl, place 2 T.

canola oil, 1 ½ tsp. each curry powder,worchestershire sauce, cayenne pepperand a dash of salt. Toss well with 1 poundpecan halves, then turn onto parchmentcovered baking sheet in a single layer.Bake in preheated 300F oven for approx.20 minutes or until lightly browned. Turnonto paper-towel covered plate and letcool. Store airtight.

PECAN-CCRUSTED TILAPIAIf you can find it, use pecan flour;

if not, grind ½ c. pecan pieces inblender/spice mill. Mix w/ ½ c. pankocrumbs and ¼ c. fine breadcrumbs, dashof salt, ½ tsp. each cayenne pepper,granulated garlic, curry powder, dash ofsalt. Preheat 4 T. canola oil in large fryingpan. Beat 2 egg whites until foamy. Dipeach of 8 tilapia filets in egg whites, thenpecan mixture. Place in preheated pan,brown on both sides, turning once. If fishnot done, finish off on baking sheet in325F oven. Serve w/ wild rice, haricotsvert. Sprinkle fish w/toasted pecans,minced parsley; add wedge of lemon to theside.

Vanessa Moncure is pecan dandy in the kitchen.

Olde Towne BUTCHERTailgate Headquarters

Corner of William & Charles Street Fredericksburg, VA 22401

540.370.4105

www.oldetownebutcher.com

Open: 9am - 9pm Monday through Saturday11am - 6pm Sunday

Lee Russell Proprietor

How to dry-age beef and keep the grill master cooking

The weather has turned and theleaves are beginning to change. The hotsummer days are gone, and with thatcomes the next season of food. Waftingaromas of steaks, stews, and braised lambshanks (upcoming articles) fill my housewith a cozy warmth that only comes fromthese heavier types of foods. But it is stillwarm enough to get outside and grill!Right?

Of course it is! However, for thisdish, you must have forethought andplanning a month or more in advance.

Most meats are wet-aged. We areall familiar with meats that have beenpackaged in plastic and sometimes have anabsorbent lining at the bottom of thepackage. Because the meat is in constantcontact with its own juices, wet-agingtends to spoil the meat relatively quickly.Another type of aging is called dry-aging.

Lots of people have heard aboutdry-aging and some have enjoyed thedeliciously tender rich meats. At over$26.00 per pound at the grocery store,this delicacy might look like it is out of thebudget for a family. If you learn how todry-age, and are patient, you might beable to create this treat yourself. Thereare different ways to dry-age. Hanging themeat in a cooler, hanging it in thepresence of salt blocks, and wrapping it ina permeable membrane, like cheese cloth,are a few. We will go over the wrappingmethod because it is the easiest do do athome unless you have a walk-inrefrigerator. Why dry-age though?

When you dry-age beef, twothings are happening. First, the meat isbeing dehydrated. With this loss ofmoisture the beef flavors are more intense

and pronounced. A piece of meat that hasbeen dry-aging for a month can lose up to30% of its weight. The second thinghappening is the natural enzymes in thebeef are breaking down the all theconnective tissues in the muscle resultingin an even more tender cut of meat. Thispart of the process means that you canget a much cheaper quality of meat thatwill produce the most tender andsucculent beef available.

Here is the secret. First, pick upa select or choice boneless beef rib or loinroast. I used a ribeye for this picture.Next, wash the meat with cool water andpat dry. Take a cheese cloth and looselywrap the meat about three times. Place arack on a cookie sheet and place the meaton the rack so that it is elevated above thecookie sheet. The key is that there isairflow all the way around the meat. Thetemperature needed to dry-age is between33 and 37 degrees. Our own refrigeratoris the perfect place to let the magichappen. Every day or so unwrap andrewrap the meat in the same cheese clothuntil it becomes too soiled and thenreplace it.

Dry-aging should be done for aminimum of seven days and can go as longas 60. I like around 30. Realize that thelonger you let it age the more happens, toinclude the outside looking gross andmaybe even smelling a little foul. That isOK. Simply cut through the crust that hasbeen created to a dry portion of the meatand discard the cuttings. What you areleft with is the richest beef on the planet!Fire up the grill and enjoy!

Kyle Snyder appeals to your palate andyour other senses when it comes to

good, simple, healthy eating.

Cooking With KyleSimple cooking done well

by james kyle snyder

720 Littlepage sunkenwelltavern.com 540-370-0911Eat Well Drink Well Live Well

The Sunken Well Tavern

Lisa Marsh spent seven yearsstyling hair, a job she loved. But afterhurting her back, she knew she needed tofind another career. After graduatingfrom Germanna Community College with adegree in business management, sheturned to Germanna’s Adult Career CoachProgram for help. Michelle Beverage, acareer coach, and Marie Hawley, careercounselor, helped her with resumes andinterviewing and supported her each stepof the way.

“The program was an amazingexperience for me,” Lisa said.

The Adult Career Coach Programis a grant-funded program that guidesadult displaced workers throughdetermining what career switch may beappropriate and how to navigate thatpath. The program is free to adults 18and older.

Lisa believed her journey was

eased by having people at Germanna shecould call on: “Michelle gathered all myinformation and put it in a database. Shehelped me with interviewing skills, and shegave me advice on the “dress” forinterviewing. Anytime I had an interview,I emailed her, and there was a pep talkcoming right back to me.”

Changing careers can beoverwhelming. Michelle helps withdecisions about credit and noncreditcourses, certification, and even financialaid. She helps folks access the VirginiaWizard, which can guide someone towardhis interests and strengths. She can alsoconnect people to Cheri Ober, theexperiential learning coordinator atGermanna. Cheri helps people on thecredit side who want to do an internship.

Most important is making surestudents can afford and pay for theclasses. “The paperwork for FAFSA(federal financial student aid) and theWorkforce Investment Act can bedaunting,” Michelle said. “People needsomeone to help them through theprocess.” Michelle also helps people findout if they qualify for WorkforceInvestment Act funds to help pay forcourses.

Her office is located at theVirginia Workforce Center in SpotsylvaniaCounty, also called the One-Stop. Aspeople walk through the door, they canvisit the Virginia Employment Commissionand see Michelle at the same time for helpwith free services.

Lisa was one of those whobenefited.

“Lisa was very motivated. Shefollowed up on everything she wassupposed to do. From the beginning, shewas on top of her game,” Michelle said.

The Adult Career Coach Programcan help remove barriers, help peoplefigure out what direction to take, andnudge them along in the process of findinga new job. Germanna offers courses and

certificates in health care, industry andconstruction, and technology amongothers. As a career coach, Michelle helpspeople get back on their feet.

Lisa is now working at Germannain the financial aid office. “I can’t sayenough about Michelle. She never led medown the wrong path. She worked veryhard to help me. She’s an amazingwoman, very good at what she does.”

For more information about theprogram and how to register, call MichelleBeverage at 540-736-8041 or [email protected]

All services funded by a U.S.Department of Labor ETA grant award.This is the creation of the grantee anddoes not necessarily reflect the officialposition of the USDOL.

Susan Carroll Morgan is a tri-owner ofthe new Writers’ and Artists’ studiocalled “Water Street” (see story this

issue).


Will PowerA Beer Column Brewed with Gusto

Fresh Ingredients = Fresh Beer

by Will loring

Fall is a wonderful season foranxious craft beer drinkers. No, notanxiously awaiting pumpkin beers, thosecame out months ago! And no, notOktoberfest lagers either; those are foundon every shelf around town and anyOktoberfest from here to Germany. WhatI’m talking about is a much more elusivecreature, one that is delicious for a fewweeks, and even harder to find when it’shere. I’m talking about wet hop ales!

Now, what exactly is a wet hop?First, some background information onthe hop harvest. Typically, around theend of August and into September (for thenorthern hemisphere), the hop flowersare picked off the bine (vines are forgrapes). They are then dried immediatelyto retain the maximum potency for thelongest period of time. This is one of thereasons breweries can brew year round. Ifyou don’t dry the hop flower very quicklyafter picking, they begin compostingalmost immediately.

For Sierra Nevada, which hasbeen brewing their Harvest Ale since 1996,they have their hops driven overnightfrom the hop farms in the Yakima Valleyto the main brewhouse in Chico,California. It is so time sensitive, that thedrivers alert the brewers to their specificarrival time to the brewery so that theyknow when to begin the boil for the beer.

The other extreme aspect of wethop ales, is the delicacy of the flavorprofiles they can impart. Wet hop ales arenot very strong (sorry, no double wet hopIPAs here). The potency of the alpha andbeta acids becomes much different andsometimes more concentrated after thedrying of the flower. Because of this, mostwet hop ales fall between 5-7% abv. Thismakes for the perfect brew to enjoy as theseasons turn and we begin staying inside alittle longer.

So, what wet hop ales should youseek out this fall? The original and easiestto find is Sierra Nevada’s Harvest Ale.Using Centennial and Cascade as thebittering and finishing hops, this is a truegem from one of America’s largestbrewers.

A newcomer in the wet hop sceneis Autumnation, from Sixpoint brewery inBrooklyn, NY. They have an interestingway of choosing which wet hops they useeach year. They hold a vote on theirwebsite with a few varietals for people todecide on. And this year, we (yes, I voted)chose Mosaic hops. One of the newer hopsto come out in the past few years, this hopwas bred from Simcoe and is noteworthyfor its notes of blueberry, lime peel,bubblegum and citrus.

One of my personal favorites,and increasingly harder to find, isFounders Harvest Ale. Also using a lot ofCentennial hops, this beer is one of themost balanced and citrus forward wet hopbeers on the market. Unfortunately, therecent uptick in Founders popularity, andnewly opened markets (namely Floridaand the UK) have put demand for this beerthrough the roof.

Lastly, we have an old stand byand supporter of using new hop varietalsin their yearly changing recipe: Terrapin’sSo Fresh and So Green, Green. While lastyear used all Citra hops, this year’s is to bedetermined. But don’t fret; Terrapin willcome through, meant to be drank as soonas it hits the shelves!

With the American craft beermarket quickly establishing itself from theold country’s traditional styles, the wethop ale is here to stay. So grab one whileyou can, and enjoy the hoppy freshnessuntil it’s gone!

Will Loring is the resident beer-o-phile at the Olde Towne Butcher

on William Street.

The General StoreRestaurant

Italian/American FoodMonday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm

371-40752018 College Ave.

Fredericksburg

Since 1978

Barbara Bergquist, CTN Board Certified Traditional Naturopath

891-6200 www.thenaturalpath.us4413 Lafayette Blvd. Fredericksburg

~Nature’s Sunshine Products

~ Biological Terrain Assessment

~VoiceBio Analysis

~Aura Photography

~Body Cleanse Foot Detox

We CarryHome Brewing Supplies !

The Natural Path Holistic Health Center

Home of great Food& great Art!

EAT WELL DRINK WELL LIVE WELL

720 Littlepage Sunkenwelltavern.com

WELCOME TO OUR

GREAT OUTDOORS

It’s Beautiful ~Night and Day!

TheSoup & Taco,

Etc.

813 Caroline St.Fredericksburg, VA

Serving TraditionalMexican, Tex-Mex Foodand Something More!!

Tuesday to Saturday11am-9pm

Sunday 11am-6pm

Phone: 540-899-0969E-mail: [email protected]

Changing Careers:Germanna Helps Lisa Marsh get it right

By Susan Carroll Morgan

620 CAROLINE STREETFREDERICKSBURG VA 22401

540.373.8300

Sunday BrunchBuffet

9 am to 2 pm

Made to orderWaffles & Omelets

Complimentary Brunch Valet Parking

Visit us at:CourtyardFredericksburg.com

Lisa Marsh spent seven yearsstyling hair, a job she loved. But afterhurting her back, she knew she needed tofind another career. After graduatingfrom Germanna Community College with adegree in business management, sheturned to Germanna’s Adult Career CoachProgram for help. Michelle Beverage, acareer coach, and Marie Hawley, careercounselor, helped her with resumes andinterviewing and supported her each stepof the way.

“The program was an amazingexperience for me,” Lisa said.

The Adult Career Coach Programis a grant-funded program that guidesadult displaced workers throughdetermining what career switch may beappropriate and how to navigate thatpath. The program is free to adults 18and older.

Lisa believed her journey was

eased by having people at Germanna shecould call on: “Michelle gathered all myinformation and put it in a database. Shehelped me with interviewing skills, and shegave me advice on the “dress” forinterviewing. Anytime I had an interview,I emailed her, and there was a pep talkcoming right back to me.”

Changing careers can beoverwhelming. Michelle helps withdecisions about credit and noncreditcourses, certification, and even financialaid. She helps folks access the VirginiaWizard, which can guide someone towardhis interests and strengths. She can alsoconnect people to Cheri Ober, theexperiential learning coordinator atGermanna. Cheri helps people on thecredit side who want to do an internship.

Most important is making surestudents can afford and pay for theclasses. “The paperwork for FAFSA(federal financial student aid) and theWorkforce Investment Act can bedaunting,” Michelle said. “People needsomeone to help them through theprocess.” Michelle also helps people findout if they qualify for WorkforceInvestment Act funds to help pay forcourses.

Her office is located at theVirginia Workforce Center in SpotsylvaniaCounty, also called the One-Stop. Aspeople walk through the door, they canvisit the Virginia Employment Commissionand see Michelle at the same time for helpwith free services.

Lisa was one of those whobenefited.

“Lisa was very motivated. Shefollowed up on everything she wassupposed to do. From the beginning, shewas on top of her game,” Michelle said.

The Adult Career Coach Programcan help remove barriers, help peoplefigure out what direction to take, andnudge them along in the process of findinga new job. Germanna offers courses and

certificates in health care, industry andconstruction, and technology amongothers. As a career coach, Michelle helpspeople get back on their feet.

Lisa is now working at Germannain the financial aid office. “I can’t sayenough about Michelle. She never led medown the wrong path. She worked veryhard to help me. She’s an amazingwoman, very good at what she does.”

For more information about theprogram and how to register, call MichelleBeverage at 540-736-8041 or [email protected]

All services funded by a U.S.Department of Labor ETA grant award.This is the creation of the grantee anddoes not necessarily reflect the officialposition of the USDOL.

Susan Carroll Morgan is a tri-owner ofthe new Writers’ and Artists’ studiocalled “Water Street” (see story this

issue).


Will PowerA Beer Column Brewed with Gusto

Fresh Ingredients = Fresh Beer

by Will loring

Fall is a wonderful season foranxious craft beer drinkers. No, notanxiously awaiting pumpkin beers, thosecame out months ago! And no, notOktoberfest lagers either; those are foundon every shelf around town and anyOktoberfest from here to Germany. WhatI’m talking about is a much more elusivecreature, one that is delicious for a fewweeks, and even harder to find when it’shere. I’m talking about wet hop ales!

Now, what exactly is a wet hop?First, some background information onthe hop harvest. Typically, around theend of August and into September (for thenorthern hemisphere), the hop flowersare picked off the bine (vines are forgrapes). They are then dried immediatelyto retain the maximum potency for thelongest period of time. This is one of thereasons breweries can brew year round. Ifyou don’t dry the hop flower very quicklyafter picking, they begin compostingalmost immediately.

For Sierra Nevada, which hasbeen brewing their Harvest Ale since 1996,they have their hops driven overnightfrom the hop farms in the Yakima Valleyto the main brewhouse in Chico,California. It is so time sensitive, that thedrivers alert the brewers to their specificarrival time to the brewery so that theyknow when to begin the boil for the beer.

The other extreme aspect of wethop ales, is the delicacy of the flavorprofiles they can impart. Wet hop ales arenot very strong (sorry, no double wet hopIPAs here). The potency of the alpha andbeta acids becomes much different andsometimes more concentrated after thedrying of the flower. Because of this, mostwet hop ales fall between 5-7% abv. Thismakes for the perfect brew to enjoy as theseasons turn and we begin staying inside alittle longer.

So, what wet hop ales should youseek out this fall? The original and easiestto find is Sierra Nevada’s Harvest Ale.Using Centennial and Cascade as thebittering and finishing hops, this is a truegem from one of America’s largestbrewers.

A newcomer in the wet hop sceneis Autumnation, from Sixpoint brewery inBrooklyn, NY. They have an interestingway of choosing which wet hops they useeach year. They hold a vote on theirwebsite with a few varietals for people todecide on. And this year, we (yes, I voted)chose Mosaic hops. One of the newer hopsto come out in the past few years, this hopwas bred from Simcoe and is noteworthyfor its notes of blueberry, lime peel,bubblegum and citrus.

One of my personal favorites,and increasingly harder to find, isFounders Harvest Ale. Also using a lot ofCentennial hops, this beer is one of themost balanced and citrus forward wet hopbeers on the market. Unfortunately, therecent uptick in Founders popularity, andnewly opened markets (namely Floridaand the UK) have put demand for this beerthrough the roof.

Lastly, we have an old stand byand supporter of using new hop varietalsin their yearly changing recipe: Terrapin’sSo Fresh and So Green, Green. While lastyear used all Citra hops, this year’s is to bedetermined. But don’t fret; Terrapin willcome through, meant to be drank as soonas it hits the shelves!

With the American craft beermarket quickly establishing itself from theold country’s traditional styles, the wethop ale is here to stay. So grab one whileyou can, and enjoy the hoppy freshnessuntil it’s gone!

Will Loring is the resident beer-o-phile at the Olde Towne Butcher

on William Street.

The General StoreRestaurant

Italian/American FoodMonday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm

371-40752018 College Ave.

Fredericksburg

Since 1978

Barbara Bergquist, CTN Board Certified Traditional Naturopath

891-6200 www.thenaturalpath.us4413 Lafayette Blvd. Fredericksburg

~Nature’s Sunshine Products

~ Biological Terrain Assessment

~VoiceBio Analysis

~Aura Photography

~Body Cleanse Foot Detox

We CarryHome Brewing Supplies !

The Natural Path Holistic Health Center

Home of great Food& great Art!

EAT WELL DRINK WELL LIVE WELL

720 Littlepage Sunkenwelltavern.com

WELCOME TO OUR

GREAT OUTDOORS

It’s Beautiful ~Night and Day!

TheSoup & Taco,

Etc.

813 Caroline St.Fredericksburg, VA

Serving TraditionalMexican, Tex-Mex Foodand Something More!!

Tuesday to Saturday11am-9pm

Sunday 11am-6pm

Phone: 540-899-0969E-mail: [email protected]

Changing Careers:Germanna Helps Lisa Marsh get it right

By Susan Carroll Morgan

620 CAROLINE STREETFREDERICKSBURG VA 22401

540.373.8300

Sunday BrunchBuffet

9 am to 2 pm

Made to orderWaffles & Omelets

Complimentary Brunch Valet Parking

Visit us at:CourtyardFredericksburg.com

*Some events run same day weekly or more thanone day.

tuesday, october 1*Picnic in the Park Every Tuesday @ Hurkamp Park,1130A-130P

The Art of Jane Snead: featured show at Art FirstGallery through Oct. 28. Opening celebration FirstFriday Oct 4, 6-9P. Theme: “October,” inspired bythe joys of harvest and celebration, and hints ofwinter to come. 824 Caroline, daily 11A-5P

Mosaic Art Show in CRRL Atrium: Cathy AmbroseSmith, a local mosaic artist and teacher will beshowing a collection of her mosaic artwork in theatrium. Open during regular library hours. 1201Caroline

PFLAG meets: Parents, Families & Friends ofLesbians and Gays - 1st Tue Monthly, 1-hr SupportGroup, 1-hr Education. 630P-830P. ChristEvangelical Lutheran Church

WINGS (Women in the Giving Spirit) hosts annualGirls Night Out, 630P. F’burg Country Club.Special showing of fall fashions from CISSportswear. All proceeds benefit Micah EcumenicalMinistries “Step Forward” program. The eveningwill feature autumn “appletini” cocktails at cashbar and dinner w/ an autumn flavor. Tickets: $50per person; tables for 8 may be reserved.Information: 371-6920

*Eddie Dickerson: Live Music at Bistro Bethemevery Tue; $3 drink specials; No cover; 8P-11P

wednesday, october 2*Spotsylvania Farmers Market: Spotsy RegionalMedical Ctr. 3-7P, 4600 Spotsy Pkwy. Every Wed

*Miss Lady & Mr. Man’s Open Mic Jam 8-11P everyWed. The Rec Center, 213 William

Stammtisch Schwetzburg Octoberfest: Socialgathering of Fredericksburg’s German sister city

group. Jointhe group andmeet newf r i e n d s .Capital AleHouse. 7P

thursday, october 3*Music every Thurs live at Kenmore Inn 730-11P.

Tonight: Souls Shaded Gray

first friday, october 4LibertyTown Arts Workshop: First Friday Openingfeatures Jack Brown’s Tattoo Revival Group Show.Unique work by 10 artists in Jack Brown’s TattooRevival. Come check it out 5P-9P. Through Oct.27

The Art of Jane Snead: featured show at Art FirstGallery through Oct. 28. Opening celebration 6-9P. Theme: “October,” inspired by the joys ofharvest and celebration, and hints of winter tocome. 824 Caroline, daily 11A-5P. 824 Caroline

PONSHOP Studio & Gallery October “First Friday”opening reception for Maryland-based AshleighDueker, a painter inspired by life experiences.Additional fine artists: Crystal and Kevin Rodrigue,Nicholas Candela, Jeremy Gann, Adam DeSio andGabriel Pons, photos by Stephen Graham, ceramicsby Scarlett Pons, plush creations from AshleighBurbidge and mixed media assemblages by LeslieBrier

Swamp Trash plays First Friday at Bistro Bethem.10P-1A. $5 cover. 309 William

saturday, october 5Art in the Park and FXBG Farmer’s Market atHurkamp Park, William @ Prince Edward. 9A-1P.First Sat

FAM & CC: Do What You Love, Charge What YouAre Worth: Tired of feeling like a starving artist?Struggle with knowing what to charge? Ready tomake more money doing what you love? Settingprices and having money conversations w/potential buyers creates stress and anxiety. Youcan do the work you love and make good moneysharing your art with the world. Half-dayworkshop led by Melanie Yost, LCSW

sunday, october 6*AM1230 WFVA Community link 8-830A.*AM1230 WFVA Community link 8-830A. Topics:Bullying -Darlene Keener, Cedar Grove Elementary;Trivia at Sunken Well Tavern - Josh Cameli w/ RobGrogan. Host Ted Schubel. Listen atnewstalk1230.net

Ten Thousand Villages: Your purchases makewishes come true! 15% of net sales donated toMake-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic. Board games, full or

travel-size, Handheld electronic games, Coloringbooks with markers, Craft kits for kids. Donationsof these items accepted until today in our store atSpotsy Towne Centre. Thank you for making ourartisans’ wishes come true through fair trade!

Aquia Evening Lions and local restaurantsgenerous food samplings. Celebrate local culinarywhile raising money to support community. Livemusic, cash bar, door prizes. Public welcome. Tix:$20/advance; $25/ Door. Danett; 956-251-4734,[email protected] Foods: Greek,Italian, German, Mexican. Proceeds benefit sight,hearing, community. 2-4P


FXBG Area Museum & Cultural Center announcesfall Evening with an Expert Lecture Series . Seriesexplores topics from our newest exhibition,Woman Adorned: Transcending Time,Transforming Culture. 7-9P. Discussion on socialclass and dress during FXBG’s Colonial era led byBrenda Rosseau, Director of Colonial WilliamsburgFoundation’s Costume and Design Center

*Alex Culbreth and the Dead Country Stars: Live atBistro Bethem. $3 beer, wine, cocktail specials. Allages. No cover. 8-11P. 309 William

wednesday, october 9Ten Thousand Villages, 11A-12N: Our artisanscraft cards out of handmade paper, then decoratewith soda can figures, pressed flowers or recyclednewspapers. Now you can create your own cardusing our recycled vinyl signs! Please RSVP for thisfree event to 540-479-3090

thursday, october 10*North Stafford MOPS Moms CLub - 2nd and 4thThursdays of each month (Sept-May). Open to allmoms of children birth - Kindergarten. Please joinus for fellowship, food, friendship, andencouragement from other moms, mentors, andlocal speakers. We offer childcare during themeetings

*The McTell Brothers at The Kenmore Inn, 730P-1030P. 1200 Princess Anne

Myers Drive Respite Group Home Open House:New, local respite program for adults with anintellectual disability. Come tour the beautifulhome, meet the staff, and learn more about thisnew community resource. Home was renovated in

partnership with Doris Buffett and The SunshineLady Foundation

FJC Open Jazz Jam at The Colonial Tavern: Join uson the 2nd Thursday of every month for livebebop, swing, and Latin standards. Musicians,bring your axes! Event is free and open to thepublic

friday, october 11Thrive the Healing Center’s Crab, Shrimp & BBQFeast in the Burg: The 3rd Annual Thrive FridayNight Feast. Inn at the Old Silk Mill. This not-to-bemissed event features Wil Gravatt Band, all youcan eat crabs, shrimp, barbeque, exciting raffles.Visit website to buy tickets. Tickets also availableat Thrive office, and through Thrive BoardMembers. To donate or be one of our sponsors,call the Thrive office

saturday, october 12Let’s Stitch - A Fredericksburg Area CharitableEvent! Calling all knitters & crocheters! Bringyour yarn & needles (and friends and family) andspend some time with others stitching for those inneed. Demos and refreshments. Knitted items willbenefit many regional groups & individuals

7th Annual Free Community Health Fair. 9A-1P.Resurrection Lutheran Church, 6170 Plank Road22407. 30+ exhibitors w/ free health screenings,demos, activities for kids. Pharmacist, dentist freeconsultations. Free adult flu shots while supplieslast. Info: Resurrection Lutheran Church at (540)786-7778 or visit resurrectionpeople.orgResurrection Lutheran Church and its HealthMinistry team are sponsoring

Second Saturdays at the Museum! 1-3P. As thecool weather moves in and the leaves start tochange color, our thoughts turn to harvest time.Virginia Indian farming and harvest techniques.You/your children decorate clay pot in Portal,Passage, Power exhibit. Once decorated, kids plantown seed to take home. [email protected], 540-371-3037, ext. 142.Sponsors: PNC Bank w/ Kinder Morgan

sunday, october 13*AM1230 WFVA Community link 8-830A.*AM1230 WFVA Community link 8-830A. Topics:Rappahannock Area Agency on Aging. Host TedSchubel. Listen at newstalk1230.net

Ten Thousand Villages, Spotsylvania TowneCentre: Our artisans craft cards out of handmadepaper, then decorate with soda can figures, pressed

flowers or recycled newspapers. Now you cancreate your own card using our recycled vinylsigns! Please RSVP for this free event to 540-479-3090

tuesday, october 15*Picnic in the Park Every Tuesday @ Hurkamp Park,1130A-130P. Donny Holcombe - SoloAcoustic, Classic Rock, Pop, and Folk songs fromthe 1960’s to today

Spotsylvania County Neighborhood WatchMeeting, 7-8P. 3rd Tue monthly. All CountyResidents welcome. Stay informed of trends/lawenforcement activity. Sheriff’s Sub-Station, SpotsyTowne Centre

Join FXBG Area Museum & Cultural Center(FAMCC) for coffee and a light breakfast duringBreakfast with the Curator series. Part of the 25thAnniversary celebrations. Eric Mink, CulturalResource Manager, FXBG & Spotsylvania MilitaryPark, leads journey through history of FXBG TownHall/Market House

*Jon Wiley & Friends play live @ Bistro Bethem. $3beer, wine, cocktail specials. All ages. No cover. 8-11P

wednesday, october 16Master gardener, Dave Rodriquez will deliver apresentation entitled “How Plants Got TheirNames.” Snow Library 7P. Free

RACSB FXBG Clinic Open House: Annual clinic openhouse hosted by RACSB. Tour the clinic, meet thestaff, and learn more about community-basedmental health, substance abuse, intellectualdisability, prevention, and early interventionservices. Speaker will provide an overview of theVirginia Wounded Warrior Program

thursday, october 17*FXBG Jazz Collective’s open jazzjam twice monthly: 1st & 3rd Thurs. Live bebop,Latin jazz, fine cocktails. Musicians, bringinstruments (no large amps).fredericksburgjazzcollective.org

*M Law and the Modern Prophets of Jazz play theKenmore Inn. Featuring Andre Eglevsky onupright bass. The Kenmore Inn. 730P

friday, october 183rd Fri, 830A business ladies’ free networking“TIPS.” Ellen Baptist, 548-0652

saturday, october 19*Free Vegetarian Cooking class every 3rd Sat. 2-330P. Meditation 4-5P. Porter Library

FAM & Cultural Center hosts Educators PrimarySources Workshop 930A-230P. Area educatorsearn professional development points. SOL topicsincluding slavery, CW, Civil Rights Movement,Industrial Revolution. Assessing primary sourceinstruction. $40 includes lunch. Focus groupduring lunch. Register through Oct 17, MuseumStore, 215 William, famcc.org [email protected] or 540-371-3037 x400

Out of the Darkness: Spotsylvania Out of theDarkness Community Walk (see article) benefitsAmerican Foundation for Suicide Prevention(AFSP). Walk w/ thousands nationwide to raisemoney for AFSP’s vital research and educationprograms to prevent suicide and save lives,increase national awareness, assist survivors ofsuicide loss. Walk to save lives, honor a loved one,raise awareness, make a difference

sunday, october 20*AM1230 WFVA Community link 8-830A. Topics:Flu shots-Brooke Rossheim - Rappahannock AreaHealth District. Host Ted Schubel. Listen atnewstalk1230.net

monday, october 21Happy Seventh Anniversary, Jessica & Jeremy

tuesday, october 22Brokedown Boys play Bistro Bethem 8-11P, 309William. No cover. All ages.

thursday, october 24*North Stafford MOPS Moms Club - 2nd and 4thThursdays of each month (Sept-May)

*Live Music at The Kenmore Inn — 730P-1030P

Karen Jonas plays Bistro Bethem 8-11P, 309William. No cover. All ages

saturday, october 26Historic Cemetery Tours: Join colonial interpretersas we tour Fredericksburg’s three old cemeteriesand “meet” some of the citizens. Meet CemeteryTrolley at Visitor’s Center. Times Sat: 1100, 1245,

230; Sun 1P, 245. $5 adults/$1 kids. Not a ghosttour but a historic educational tour. Sponsored byRappahannock Colonial Heritage Society. Moreinfo: Trip Wiggins 371-3906

Treasures for the whole family at Trinity EpiscopalChurch’s huge fall yard and bake sale Saturday,Oct. 26, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., rain or shine!! Collectibles,books, housewares, antiques, linens, toys, games,tools, furniture, jewelry, bikes, electronics,fall/winter clothes, accessories, freshly bakedgoodies! 540-273-0653

Annual Fredericksburg Witches Masquerade BallCharity event. Net Proceeds will be donated to theAmerican Cancer Society. Enjoy fun and festivitiesof Venetian Masquerade Ball (ball attire and masksrequired). A mask unveiling at 1045P. Music,food, vendors, performers, silent auction. 7P—11P. Riverside Dinner Theater, 95 RiversideParkway, 22406. Tickets limited! Ages: 18+, 14-17w/ adult

sunday, october 27*AM1230 WFVA Community link 8-830A.Spotsylvania Greenways Initiative (see page 27).Host Ted Schubel. Listen at newstalk1230.net

Art: Learn to a paint your dog, or cat, or fish! EdKing has a way w/ painting animals and a greatway w/ students, too! Try a new class! Reserve aspot: LibertyTown: 540-371-7255,[email protected]

Academy Awards Best Pictures Lecture: 1945-1949: Film highlights and commentary of AcademyAwards Nominees of the Post-War Years, 1945-1949. CRRL Theatre, 1201 Caroline

tuesday, october 29Becky, Slam Y Limon play Bistro Bethem 8-11P. Nocover. $3 drink specials. All ages. 309 William

thursday, october 31Halloween

*Live music at the Kenmore Inn

If you are reading this 196th issue of FP, thank an advertiser as we celebrate autumn!

If you are an advertiser, list your event.Deadline for November’s issue is Oct. 20.

To submit events, follow link:http://frontporchfredericksburg.com/how-

to-submit-online/


october 2013… Hail the harvest month!

CALENDARof events

Each HomeInstead Franchise Office is Independently Owned & Operated homeinstead.com

CompanionshipMeal PreparationMedication RemindersLaundry

Light HousekeepingShopping/ErrandsPersonal CareFlexible Hours

Call for a free, no-obligation appointment

540.899.1422

1918 Fans (& Growing)

Want You to Join

Front Porch on

Peggy Wickham Art at Brush Strokes

Contact Peggy at2191 Sebastian Road

Fredericksburg, VA 22405540-446-5639

~ Peggy Wickham Art ~

*Some events run same day weekly or more thanone day.


The Art of Jane Snead: featured show at Art FirstGallery through Oct. 28. Opening celebration FirstFriday Oct 4, 6-9P. Theme: “October,” inspired bythe joys of harvest and celebration, and hints ofwinter to come. 824 Caroline, daily 11A-5P

Mosaic Art Show in CRRL Atrium: Cathy AmbroseSmith, a local mosaic artist and teacher will beshowing a collection of her mosaic artwork in theatrium. Open during regular library hours. 1201Caroline

PFLAG meets: Parents, Families & Friends ofLesbians and Gays - 1st Tue Monthly, 1-hr SupportGroup, 1-hr Education. 630P-830P. ChristEvangelical Lutheran Church

WINGS (Women in the Giving Spirit) hosts annualGirls Night Out, 630P. F’burg Country Club.Special showing of fall fashions from CISSportswear. All proceeds benefit Micah EcumenicalMinistries “Step Forward” program. The eveningwill feature autumn “appletini” cocktails at cashbar and dinner w/ an autumn flavor. Tickets: $50per person; tables for 8 may be reserved.Information: 371-6920

*Eddie Dickerson: Live Music at Bistro Bethemevery Tue; $3 drink specials; No cover; 8P-11P

wednesday, october 2*Spotsylvania Farmers Market: Spotsy RegionalMedical Ctr. 3-7P, 4600 Spotsy Pkwy. Every Wed

*Miss Lady & Mr. Man’s Open Mic Jam 8-11P everyWed. The Rec Center, 213 William

Stammtisch Schwetzburg Octoberfest: Socialgathering of Fredericksburg’s German sister city

group. Jointhe group andmeet newf r i e n d s .Capital AleHouse. 7P

thursday, october 3*Music every Thurs live at Kenmore Inn 730-11P.

Tonight: Souls Shaded Gray

first friday, october 4LibertyTown Arts Workshop: First Friday Openingfeatures Jack Brown’s Tattoo Revival Group Show.Unique work by 10 artists in Jack Brown’s TattooRevival. Come check it out 5P-9P. Through Oct.27

The Art of Jane Snead: featured show at Art FirstGallery through Oct. 28. Opening celebration 6-9P. Theme: “October,” inspired by the joys ofharvest and celebration, and hints of winter tocome. 824 Caroline, daily 11A-5P. 824 Caroline

PONSHOP Studio & Gallery October “First Friday”opening reception for Maryland-based AshleighDueker, a painter inspired by life experiences.Additional fine artists: Crystal and Kevin Rodrigue,Nicholas Candela, Jeremy Gann, Adam DeSio andGabriel Pons, photos by Stephen Graham, ceramicsby Scarlett Pons, plush creations from AshleighBurbidge and mixed media assemblages by LeslieBrier

Swamp Trash plays First Friday at Bistro Bethem.10P-1A. $5 cover. 309 William

saturday, october 5Art in the Park and FXBG Farmer’s Market atHurkamp Park, William @ Prince Edward. 9A-1P.First Sat

FAM & CC: Do What You Love, Charge What YouAre Worth: Tired of feeling like a starving artist?Struggle with knowing what to charge? Ready tomake more money doing what you love? Settingprices and having money conversations w/potential buyers creates stress and anxiety. Youcan do the work you love and make good moneysharing your art with the world. Half-dayworkshop led by Melanie Yost, LCSW

sunday, october 6*AM1230 WFVA Community link 8-830A.*AM1230 WFVA Community link 8-830A. Topics:Bullying -Darlene Keener, Cedar Grove Elementary;Trivia at Sunken Well Tavern - Josh Cameli w/ RobGrogan. Host Ted Schubel. Listen atnewstalk1230.net

Ten Thousand Villages: Your purchases makewishes come true! 15% of net sales donated toMake-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic. Board games, full or

travel-size, Handheld electronic games, Coloringbooks with markers, Craft kits for kids. Donationsof these items accepted until today in our store atSpotsy Towne Centre. Thank you for making ourartisans’ wishes come true through fair trade!

Aquia Evening Lions and local restaurantsgenerous food samplings. Celebrate local culinarywhile raising money to support community. Livemusic, cash bar, door prizes. Public welcome. Tix:$20/advance; $25/ Door. Danett; 956-251-4734,[email protected] Foods: Greek,Italian, German, Mexican. Proceeds benefit sight,hearing, community. 2-4P


FXBG Area Museum & Cultural Center announcesfall Evening with an Expert Lecture Series . Seriesexplores topics from our newest exhibition,Woman Adorned: Transcending Time,Transforming Culture. 7-9P. Discussion on socialclass and dress during FXBG’s Colonial era led byBrenda Rosseau, Director of Colonial WilliamsburgFoundation’s Costume and Design Center

*Alex Culbreth and the Dead Country Stars: Live atBistro Bethem. $3 beer, wine, cocktail specials. Allages. No cover. 8-11P. 309 William

wednesday, october 9Ten Thousand Villages, 11A-12N: Our artisanscraft cards out of handmade paper, then decoratewith soda can figures, pressed flowers or recyclednewspapers. Now you can create your own cardusing our recycled vinyl signs! Please RSVP for thisfree event to 540-479-3090

thursday, october 10*North Stafford MOPS Moms CLub - 2nd and 4thThursdays of each month (Sept-May). Open to allmoms of children birth - Kindergarten. Please joinus for fellowship, food, friendship, andencouragement from other moms, mentors, andlocal speakers. We offer childcare during themeetings

*The McTell Brothers at The Kenmore Inn, 730P-1030P. 1200 Princess Anne

Myers Drive Respite Group Home Open House:New, local respite program for adults with anintellectual disability. Come tour the beautifulhome, meet the staff, and learn more about thisnew community resource. Home was renovated in

partnership with Doris Buffett and The SunshineLady Foundation

FJC Open Jazz Jam at The Colonial Tavern: Join uson the 2nd Thursday of every month for livebebop, swing, and Latin standards. Musicians,bring your axes! Event is free and open to thepublic

friday, october 11Thrive the Healing Center’s Crab, Shrimp & BBQFeast in the Burg: The 3rd Annual Thrive FridayNight Feast. Inn at the Old Silk Mill. This not-to-bemissed event features Wil Gravatt Band, all youcan eat crabs, shrimp, barbeque, exciting raffles.Visit website to buy tickets. Tickets also availableat Thrive office, and through Thrive BoardMembers. To donate or be one of our sponsors,call the Thrive office

saturday, october 12Let’s Stitch - A Fredericksburg Area CharitableEvent! Calling all knitters & crocheters! Bringyour yarn & needles (and friends and family) andspend some time with others stitching for those inneed. Demos and refreshments. Knitted items willbenefit many regional groups & individuals

7th Annual Free Community Health Fair. 9A-1P.Resurrection Lutheran Church, 6170 Plank Road22407. 30+ exhibitors w/ free health screenings,demos, activities for kids. Pharmacist, dentist freeconsultations. Free adult flu shots while supplieslast. Info: Resurrection Lutheran Church at (540)786-7778 or visit resurrectionpeople.orgResurrection Lutheran Church and its HealthMinistry team are sponsoring

Second Saturdays at the Museum! 1-3P. As thecool weather moves in and the leaves start tochange color, our thoughts turn to harvest time.Virginia Indian farming and harvest techniques.You/your children decorate clay pot in Portal,Passage, Power exhibit. Once decorated, kids plantown seed to take home. [email protected], 540-371-3037, ext. 142.Sponsors: PNC Bank w/ Kinder Morgan

sunday, october 13*AM1230 WFVA Community link 8-830A.*AM1230 WFVA Community link 8-830A. Topics:Rappahannock Area Agency on Aging. Host TedSchubel. Listen at newstalk1230.net

Ten Thousand Villages, Spotsylvania TowneCentre: Our artisans craft cards out of handmadepaper, then decorate with soda can figures, pressed

flowers or recycled newspapers. Now you cancreate your own card using our recycled vinylsigns! Please RSVP for this free event to 540-479-3090

tuesday, october 15*Picnic in the Park Every Tuesday @ Hurkamp Park,1130A-130P. Donny Holcombe - SoloAcoustic, Classic Rock, Pop, and Folk songs fromthe 1960’s to today

Spotsylvania County Neighborhood WatchMeeting, 7-8P. 3rd Tue monthly. All CountyResidents welcome. Stay informed of trends/lawenforcement activity. Sheriff’s Sub-Station, SpotsyTowne Centre

Join FXBG Area Museum & Cultural Center(FAMCC) for coffee and a light breakfast duringBreakfast with the Curator series. Part of the 25thAnniversary celebrations. Eric Mink, CulturalResource Manager, FXBG & Spotsylvania MilitaryPark, leads journey through history of FXBG TownHall/Market House

*Jon Wiley & Friends play live @ Bistro Bethem. $3beer, wine, cocktail specials. All ages. No cover. 8-11P

wednesday, october 16Master gardener, Dave Rodriquez will deliver apresentation entitled “How Plants Got TheirNames.” Snow Library 7P. Free

RACSB FXBG Clinic Open House: Annual clinic openhouse hosted by RACSB. Tour the clinic, meet thestaff, and learn more about community-basedmental health, substance abuse, intellectualdisability, prevention, and early interventionservices. Speaker will provide an overview of theVirginia Wounded Warrior Program

thursday, october 17*FXBG Jazz Collective’s open jazzjam twice monthly: 1st & 3rd Thurs. Live bebop,Latin jazz, fine cocktails. Musicians, bringinstruments (no large amps).fredericksburgjazzcollective.org

*M Law and the Modern Prophets of Jazz play theKenmore Inn. Featuring Andre Eglevsky onupright bass. The Kenmore Inn. 730P

friday, october 183rd Fri, 830A business ladies’ free networking“TIPS.” Ellen Baptist, 548-0652

saturday, october 19*Free Vegetarian Cooking class every 3rd Sat. 2-330P. Meditation 4-5P. Porter Library

FAM & Cultural Center hosts Educators PrimarySources Workshop 930A-230P. Area educatorsearn professional development points. SOL topicsincluding slavery, CW, Civil Rights Movement,Industrial Revolution. Assessing primary sourceinstruction. $40 includes lunch. Focus groupduring lunch. Register through Oct 17, MuseumStore, 215 William, famcc.org [email protected] or 540-371-3037 x400

Out of the Darkness: Spotsylvania Out of theDarkness Community Walk (see article) benefitsAmerican Foundation for Suicide Prevention(AFSP). Walk w/ thousands nationwide to raisemoney for AFSP’s vital research and educationprograms to prevent suicide and save lives,increase national awareness, assist survivors ofsuicide loss. Walk to save lives, honor a loved one,raise awareness, make a difference

sunday, october 20*AM1230 WFVA Community link 8-830A. Topics:Flu shots-Brooke Rossheim - Rappahannock AreaHealth District. Host Ted Schubel. Listen atnewstalk1230.net

monday, october 21Happy Seventh Anniversary, Jessica & Jeremy

tuesday, october 22Brokedown Boys play Bistro Bethem 8-11P, 309William. No cover. All ages.

thursday, october 24*North Stafford MOPS Moms Club - 2nd and 4thThursdays of each month (Sept-May)

*Live Music at The Kenmore Inn — 730P-1030P

Karen Jonas plays Bistro Bethem 8-11P, 309William. No cover. All ages

saturday, october 26Historic Cemetery Tours: Join colonial interpretersas we tour Fredericksburg’s three old cemeteriesand “meet” some of the citizens. Meet CemeteryTrolley at Visitor’s Center. Times Sat: 1100, 1245,

230; Sun 1P, 245. $5 adults/$1 kids. Not a ghosttour but a historic educational tour. Sponsored byRappahannock Colonial Heritage Society. Moreinfo: Trip Wiggins 371-3906

Treasures for the whole family at Trinity EpiscopalChurch’s huge fall yard and bake sale Saturday,Oct. 26, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., rain or shine!! Collectibles,books, housewares, antiques, linens, toys, games,tools, furniture, jewelry, bikes, electronics,fall/winter clothes, accessories, freshly bakedgoodies! 540-273-0653

Annual Fredericksburg Witches Masquerade BallCharity event. Net Proceeds will be donated to theAmerican Cancer Society. Enjoy fun and festivitiesof Venetian Masquerade Ball (ball attire and masksrequired). A mask unveiling at 1045P. Music,food, vendors, performers, silent auction. 7P—11P. Riverside Dinner Theater, 95 RiversideParkway, 22406. Tickets limited! Ages: 18+, 14-17w/ adult

sunday, october 27*AM1230 WFVA Community link 8-830A.Spotsylvania Greenways Initiative (see page 27).Host Ted Schubel. Listen at newstalk1230.net

Art: Learn to a paint your dog, or cat, or fish! EdKing has a way w/ painting animals and a greatway w/ students, too! Try a new class! Reserve aspot: LibertyTown: 540-371-7255,[email protected]

Academy Awards Best Pictures Lecture: 1945-1949: Film highlights and commentary of AcademyAwards Nominees of the Post-War Years, 1945-1949. CRRL Theatre, 1201 Caroline

tuesday, october 29Becky, Slam Y Limon play Bistro Bethem 8-11P. Nocover. $3 drink specials. All ages. 309 William

thursday, october 31Halloween

*Live music at the Kenmore Inn

If you are reading this 196th issue of FP, thank an advertiser as we celebrate autumn!

If you are an advertiser, list your event.Deadline for November’s issue is Oct. 20.

To submit events, follow link:http://frontporchfredericksburg.com/how-

to-submit-online/


october 2013… Hail the harvest month!

CALENDARof events

Each HomeInstead Franchise Office is Independently Owned & Operated homeinstead.com

CompanionshipMeal PreparationMedication RemindersLaundry

Light HousekeepingShopping/ErrandsPersonal CareFlexible Hours

Call for a free, no-obligation appointment

540.899.1422

1918 Fans (& Growing)

Want You to Join

Front Porch on

Peggy Wickham Art at Brush Strokes

Contact Peggy at2191 Sebastian Road

Fredericksburg, VA 22405540-446-5639

~ Peggy Wickham Art ~

From 1760 to 1775there was a revival ofMasonry in all of theColonies with additions innew membership that havenever been surpassed.Many of the leaders in theColonies who becamemembers of the orderwould go on to sign andadopt the Declaration ofIndependence andformulate the Constitution.Fredericksburg was the siteof this movement with thedate of Lodge #4 beingSeptember 1, 1752. Sixyears later on July 21, 1758,a Charter was issued by theGrand Lodge of Scotlandunder the designation ofthe Lodge ofFREDERICKSBURGH.

The Grand Lodge of Virginia issued to the Fredericksburg Lodge a Virginiacharter on January 30, 1787, under which it currently operates with a membership ofmen who were and are still involved throughout the community, state, and nation. Thelodge still owns the original Scottish Charter issued in 1758.

The Fredericksburg Lodge has the oldest known record in the world of theRoyal Arch Degree being conferred. According to Lodge #4 minutes of meetings, onNovember 4, 1752, George Washington was initiated with thirteen FredericksburgMasons in attendance. General Lafayette became a member of the Lodge on Sunday,November 28, 1824. Lafayette was in attendance on his last visit to America and wasaddressed by the Master William Gray who told him how proud the Lodge was to havemembers such as Washington, Mercer, Weedon, Woodford and Lafayette. He went on totell Lafayette that the anniversary of his visit would always be remembered, which theLodge still celebrates annually. It is recorded that Lafayette responded with greatemotion.

In May 1833, the Lodge laid the cornerstone for the monument to GeorgeWashington’s Mother with President Andrew Jackson who had been the Past GrandMaster of Masons in Tennessee before becoming President. The Lodge has survivedmany events with the Civil War being the most destructive. Many of the Masonic Lodgeitems that were looted during the battle and have been returned over the past hundredplus years.

The Lodge still has the Bible upon which George Washington took his Masonicoath. It is recognized that few Masonic Lodges if any could show such membership asthe Fredericksburg Lodge. George Washington, Hugh Mercer, Lafayette, Wallace, JacobVon Braam, William Woodford, Montgomery Slaughter, and John Paul Jones - to name afew. Many local government officials were Lodge members or are current members ofthe Lodge, which is still active after more than 250 years.

Tuffy Hicks, our house historian, dedicates this month’s column to “everyone who attended the benefit for Rob.”

front porch fredericksburg October 2013 19 18 October 2013 Front porch fredericksburg

OUR HERITAGEA monthly look at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center collection

historic route 1

by emily taggert schricker

Masonic Lodge 17By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks

his

tory

’s s

tori

es

If you follow the signs of USBusiness Route 1, winding your waythrough Downtown, you may be travelingon a road that holds more history thanyou realize. Today we call the roadPrincess Anne Street; in 1926 it wasnamed US Route No. 1; during itsconstruction, the newspapers referred toit as the Washington-Richmond Highwayor the Richmond-Washington Highway(depending on the location of the writer),and when it opened in 1927 it was billedas the Jefferson Davis Highway. Today,these names call to mind a variety ofroads, yet when theautomobile was still anovelty and roadmaintenance was still anew idea, these were allthe same location, theone main highway fromMaine to Florida by wayof Princess Anne Street,Fredericksburg, VA –- USRoute No. 1.

What startedout as a muddy roadthat hindered as well ashelped automobiles, hadbeen transformed into a smoothly pavedconcrete surface after 24 years oflegislation, meetings and construction. OnMay 28, 1927 the splendid celebration ofits completion would be fitting of all thework that went into it.

For the opening of theWashington-Richmond Highway,Fredericksburg prepared to host 30,000visitors. The Virginia highway, part of thelarger Jefferson Davis Highway, was nowcompletely concrete and inspired anillustrious day of ribbon cuttings,luncheons, pageants, and formal dances.The festivities began at 10 the morning of

May 28th, when one blue ribbon was cut amile and a half north of Occoquan by theMayor of Alexandria, William AlbertSmoot, and one gray ribbon was cut 19

miles north of Fredericksburg, by VirginiaGovernor Harry Flood Byrd. The partiesthen progressed to Fredericksburg andtheir places in the reviewing stands towatch a grand two-hour pageant unfold.

The pageant was a collection ofAmerican History and English History.Three generations of transportationhistory, an array of bands, costumes, andarmed forces rounded out the show. Thatevening, two large dances were hosted tobring the grand celebration to a close, oneat the Maury Hotel, the other at the ElksHome. Perhaps the best news of the day

was reported by TheWashington Post:“Every highway leadinginto the city was filledwith automobiles and,while traffic was dense,there was no accidentsor disorder reported.”

Make yourFirst Friday plans now!HFFI will have an OpenHouse on October 4thfrom 6-88pm. Be sureto stop by! This will beyour chance to see the

first in a series of exhibits from theVintage Route 1 Event.

And, do visit the CentralRappahannock Heritage Center (CRHC),900 Barton St. #111 (540-373-3704),which will be launching, with HFFI, itsrecently published book, The CircleUnbroken: Civil War Letters of the KnoxFamily of Fredericksburg, on Sunday,October 27th, from 3 to 5p.m. at theKenmore Inn, 1200 Princess Anne, thehome of the Knox Family from the 1850’sinto the early 20th Century.Refreshments provided; books availablefor purchase.

Emily Taggart Schricker works atDovetail Cultural Resource Group and

lives in town.

Central RappahannockHERITAGE CENTER

Volunteers neededto process historical documents

and aid researchers. Training provided.

Phone 540-373-3704 or email [email protected]

The Heritage Center Maury Commons 900 Barton St Fredericksburg

Open to the public for scholarly research

They are “three amigos” withmuch in common: they are all masters oftheir art; they all appreciate the mutualsupport and encouragement that is thehallmark of the Fredericksburg artscommunity; and they each had a desire to“pay it forward” to nurture and promotethe arts in the area. This month, SusanCarter Morgan (R), Lynette Reed (L), andElizabeth Seaver (C) will accomplish thatgoal with the unveiling of their uniqueWater Street Writers’ and Artists’ Studioat 915 Sophia Street.

The title of the studio is rootedin the name that was given to SophiaStreet back in history, but “water” alsoseems to be a perfect image to connotethe bubbling and flowing nature of artisticcreation as well. And, while the visual arts,drama, and music all present themselvesto the physical senses, the art of writinghas been like a silent river runningthrough and beneath the arts community:The Water Street Studio will bring thatstream to the surface.

“Our idea was to have a studiowhere the visual and written arts couldcombine, and it’s not a far reach toconnect writing with art,” said Reed,“They go hand and hand and both traceback to an era of cave paintings andhieroglyphics when writing and art wereone and the same!”

Morgan, a former journalist andlong-time teacher, reflects on the role thatthe visual arts played in inspiring herpersonal muse when her studio waslocated at the Liberty Town ArtsWorkshop. “When I would come into thebuilding and see all these fabulouspainters, and sculptors, and craftspeopleworking, I was inspired in my own writing.

Morgan went on to try her hand atpainting and recalls, “I took courses and

realized howmuch doing theart could help mywriting andinspire me tocome up withstronger piecesand to use allparts of my brainas I create. Itputs my writingin a differentplace and I usedifferent imagesand languagebased on thevisual art. It

even helps with organization.”While Seaver is best known in the

area for her whimsical paintings ofstylized birds in curious pursuits and Reedfor her weaving creations and fibersculptures, their creations have alsoincluded writing. Both have written andillustrated children’s books, and Seaverhas even ventured into authoring booksfor adults.

“Both writing and painting havebeen ways for me to discover more aboutwho I am and to move to a new place,”said Seaver, “Even if you never publish athing, writing helps you to understandyourself and your relationships. You cancreate every day of your life and thatmakes your life a richer experience as wellas enriching the people around you.”

The Water Street Studio, whichopens its doors on October 4, wasconceived as a hub of artisticcollaboration and will host workshops,classes, and guest speakers and willfeature the work of local artists in its giftshop. Plans are also underway to launchan online literary magazine with ongoingsubmissions from writers in the area.

“We want to be a gathering placewhere writers and artists can cometogether over a cup of coffee or offerclasses for children and adults in ourstudios,” said Morgan, “It’s one more waythat we can share in this vibrantcommunity of creative people and perhapsoffer some workshops that haven’t beendone before in exactly the same way.”

The Water Street scoop:[email protected] website:http://waterstreetstudio.org/ Hours:Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat: 12-6P; Sun: 12-4P; Closed Tuesday and Wednesday, exceptfor classes

Collette Caprara is a writer and visual artist.

Bubbling and FlowingWater Street Writers’/Artists’ Studio Opens

By collette caprara

From 1760 to 1775there was a revival ofMasonry in all of theColonies with additions innew membership that havenever been surpassed.Many of the leaders in theColonies who becamemembers of the orderwould go on to sign andadopt the Declaration ofIndependence andformulate the Constitution.Fredericksburg was the siteof this movement with thedate of Lodge #4 beingSeptember 1, 1752. Sixyears later on July 21, 1758,a Charter was issued by theGrand Lodge of Scotlandunder the designation ofthe Lodge ofFREDERICKSBURGH.

The Grand Lodge of Virginia issued to the Fredericksburg Lodge a Virginiacharter on January 30, 1787, under which it currently operates with a membership ofmen who were and are still involved throughout the community, state, and nation. Thelodge still owns the original Scottish Charter issued in 1758.

The Fredericksburg Lodge has the oldest known record in the world of theRoyal Arch Degree being conferred. According to Lodge #4 minutes of meetings, onNovember 4, 1752, George Washington was initiated with thirteen FredericksburgMasons in attendance. General Lafayette became a member of the Lodge on Sunday,November 28, 1824. Lafayette was in attendance on his last visit to America and wasaddressed by the Master William Gray who told him how proud the Lodge was to havemembers such as Washington, Mercer, Weedon, Woodford and Lafayette. He went on totell Lafayette that the anniversary of his visit would always be remembered, which theLodge still celebrates annually. It is recorded that Lafayette responded with greatemotion.

In May 1833, the Lodge laid the cornerstone for the monument to GeorgeWashington’s Mother with President Andrew Jackson who had been the Past GrandMaster of Masons in Tennessee before becoming President. The Lodge has survivedmany events with the Civil War being the most destructive. Many of the Masonic Lodgeitems that were looted during the battle and have been returned over the past hundredplus years.

The Lodge still has the Bible upon which George Washington took his Masonicoath. It is recognized that few Masonic Lodges if any could show such membership asthe Fredericksburg Lodge. George Washington, Hugh Mercer, Lafayette, Wallace, JacobVon Braam, William Woodford, Montgomery Slaughter, and John Paul Jones - to name afew. Many local government officials were Lodge members or are current members ofthe Lodge, which is still active after more than 250 years.

Tuffy Hicks, our house historian, dedicates this month’s column to “everyone who attended the benefit for Rob.”


OUR HERITAGEA monthly look at the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center collection

historic route 1

by emily taggert schricker

Masonic Lodge 17By Ralph “Tuffy” Hicks

his

tory

’s s

tori

es

If you follow the signs of USBusiness Route 1, winding your waythrough Downtown, you may be travelingon a road that holds more history thanyou realize. Today we call the roadPrincess Anne Street; in 1926 it wasnamed US Route No. 1; during itsconstruction, the newspapers referred toit as the Washington-Richmond Highwayor the Richmond-Washington Highway(depending on the location of the writer),and when it opened in 1927 it was billedas the Jefferson Davis Highway. Today,these names call to mind a variety ofroads, yet when theautomobile was still anovelty and roadmaintenance was still anew idea, these were allthe same location, theone main highway fromMaine to Florida by wayof Princess Anne Street,Fredericksburg, VA –- USRoute No. 1.

What startedout as a muddy roadthat hindered as well ashelped automobiles, hadbeen transformed into a smoothly pavedconcrete surface after 24 years oflegislation, meetings and construction. OnMay 28, 1927 the splendid celebration ofits completion would be fitting of all thework that went into it.

For the opening of theWashington-Richmond Highway,Fredericksburg prepared to host 30,000visitors. The Virginia highway, part of thelarger Jefferson Davis Highway, was nowcompletely concrete and inspired anillustrious day of ribbon cuttings,luncheons, pageants, and formal dances.The festivities began at 10 the morning of

May 28th, when one blue ribbon was cut amile and a half north of Occoquan by theMayor of Alexandria, William AlbertSmoot, and one gray ribbon was cut 19

miles north of Fredericksburg, by VirginiaGovernor Harry Flood Byrd. The partiesthen progressed to Fredericksburg andtheir places in the reviewing stands towatch a grand two-hour pageant unfold.

The pageant was a collection ofAmerican History and English History.Three generations of transportationhistory, an array of bands, costumes, andarmed forces rounded out the show. Thatevening, two large dances were hosted tobring the grand celebration to a close, oneat the Maury Hotel, the other at the ElksHome. Perhaps the best news of the day

was reported by TheWashington Post:“Every highway leadinginto the city was filledwith automobiles and,while traffic was dense,there was no accidentsor disorder reported.”

Make yourFirst Friday plans now!HFFI will have an OpenHouse on October 4thfrom 6-88pm. Be sureto stop by! This will beyour chance to see the

first in a series of exhibits from theVintage Route 1 Event.

And, do visit the CentralRappahannock Heritage Center (CRHC),900 Barton St. #111 (540-373-3704),which will be launching, with HFFI, itsrecently published book, The CircleUnbroken: Civil War Letters of the KnoxFamily of Fredericksburg, on Sunday,October 27th, from 3 to 5p.m. at theKenmore Inn, 1200 Princess Anne, thehome of the Knox Family from the 1850’sinto the early 20th Century.Refreshments provided; books availablefor purchase.

Emily Taggart Schricker works atDovetail Cultural Resource Group and

lives in town.

Central RappahannockHERITAGE CENTER

Volunteers neededto process historical documents

and aid researchers. Training provided.

Phone 540-373-3704 or email [email protected]

The Heritage Center Maury Commons 900 Barton St Fredericksburg

Open to the public for scholarly research

They are “three amigos” withmuch in common: they are all masters oftheir art; they all appreciate the mutualsupport and encouragement that is thehallmark of the Fredericksburg artscommunity; and they each had a desire to“pay it forward” to nurture and promotethe arts in the area. This month, SusanCarter Morgan (R), Lynette Reed (L), andElizabeth Seaver (C) will accomplish thatgoal with the unveiling of their uniqueWater Street Writers’ and Artists’ Studioat 915 Sophia Street.

The title of the studio is rootedin the name that was given to SophiaStreet back in history, but “water” alsoseems to be a perfect image to connotethe bubbling and flowing nature of artisticcreation as well. And, while the visual arts,drama, and music all present themselvesto the physical senses, the art of writinghas been like a silent river runningthrough and beneath the arts community:The Water Street Studio will bring thatstream to the surface.

“Our idea was to have a studiowhere the visual and written arts couldcombine, and it’s not a far reach toconnect writing with art,” said Reed,“They go hand and hand and both traceback to an era of cave paintings andhieroglyphics when writing and art wereone and the same!”

Morgan, a former journalist andlong-time teacher, reflects on the role thatthe visual arts played in inspiring herpersonal muse when her studio waslocated at the Liberty Town ArtsWorkshop. “When I would come into thebuilding and see all these fabulouspainters, and sculptors, and craftspeopleworking, I was inspired in my own writing.

Morgan went on to try her hand atpainting and recalls, “I took courses and

realized howmuch doing theart could help mywriting andinspire me tocome up withstronger piecesand to use allparts of my brainas I create. Itputs my writingin a differentplace and I usedifferent imagesand languagebased on thevisual art. It

even helps with organization.”While Seaver is best known in the

area for her whimsical paintings ofstylized birds in curious pursuits and Reedfor her weaving creations and fibersculptures, their creations have alsoincluded writing. Both have written andillustrated children’s books, and Seaverhas even ventured into authoring booksfor adults.

“Both writing and painting havebeen ways for me to discover more aboutwho I am and to move to a new place,”said Seaver, “Even if you never publish athing, writing helps you to understandyourself and your relationships. You cancreate every day of your life and thatmakes your life a richer experience as wellas enriching the people around you.”

The Water Street Studio, whichopens its doors on October 4, wasconceived as a hub of artisticcollaboration and will host workshops,classes, and guest speakers and willfeature the work of local artists in its giftshop. Plans are also underway to launchan online literary magazine with ongoingsubmissions from writers in the area.

“We want to be a gathering placewhere writers and artists can cometogether over a cup of coffee or offerclasses for children and adults in ourstudios,” said Morgan, “It’s one more waythat we can share in this vibrantcommunity of creative people and perhapsoffer some workshops that haven’t beendone before in exactly the same way.”

The Water Street scoop:[email protected] website:http://waterstreetstudio.org/ Hours:Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat: 12-6P; Sun: 12-4P; Closed Tuesday and Wednesday, exceptfor classes

Collette Caprara is a writer and visual artist.

Bubbling and FlowingWater Street Writers’/Artists’ Studio Opens

By collette caprara


My husband and I just purchasedour first home. While I’m excited for thishuge step, I’m a bit concerned that mypets may not share my enthusiasm for thechange. Their lives revolve around threethings: me, food, and their territory. Iworry they may get upset by theunfamiliar environment and odors.

Luckily for me, I work alongsidesome pretty great trainers (insert plug forPositive Touch Training here – honestly,they are very good at what they do) whohave armed me with several options onhow to help my beasties transition to anew home. The first recommendation isto put appeasing pheromones into thehome before the animals even arrive.These pheromones are airborne synthetichormones that induce a calming moodover pets. They are easy to use, just pluginto an outlet and change the cartridgeabout once a month, and they don’t havean odor humans can detect. There arespecies-specific pheromones for both catsand dogs. Another consideration beforedogs arrive at their new pad is to exercisethem. It may be helpful to take dogs fora walk around the new neighborhood totake in all the new sites, smells, and peoplewhile burning off some energy that mayotherwise be transformed into over-stimulation and anxiety at the new home.

Once you’re ready to bring yourpets onto the premise, start by placingfamiliar items into the unfamiliarenvironment. Some of the first items youshould unload at a new home are kennels,pet toys, bowls, and bedding. Another wayto help your pet cope is to keep a normalschedule during the chaos of unpacking.If you feed or walk your pet at the sametime every day then be sure to continuethat routine.

Another tool that is gainingpopularity is the ThunderShirt. They lookridiculous on television commercials and

there are some entertaining Internetvideos of pets wearing them, but theabsurd looking pet attire can really work!Plus they have a 45-day guarantee so youcan at least give it a try. Trainersrecommend to get your furry friendacclimated to wearing it during happy,non-stressful times before you use it in astressful situation.

If you move into a home likemine that has urine stained carpet fromthe previous animal inhabitant,unfortunately the carpet and pad has tobe torn up and trashed. It’s important toalso treat the sub-flooring with anenzymatic cleaner made for pet stains anda sealant. If the odor is not completelyresolved, your pets will smell the previousurine and likely start marking the flooringthemselves.

If none of the above adaptationsare adequate at keeping your pet happyand healthy, you should consult a certifiedtrainer and your veterinarian. A trainerwill have ideas more specific to your pet’sresponses, and a veterinarian mayprescribe behavior-modifying medications.Be aware that medications can have sideeffects or change the personality of yourfour-legged friend. It is almost alwaysbest to try training before medication,and then continue training in addition tomedication.

These coping devises can also beused to reduce anxiety in many otherstressful situations. For example,separation anxiety, guests in the home(the holidays are coming), and badweather. I’ve even had a patient get upsetwhen the owners purchased a new couch!

Dr. Jennifer Skarbek, DVM, who practicesat White Oak Animal Hospital,

reminds you to update pet tags and/ormicrochip information when you

move to a new address.

Companion Carewhen you move

by jennifer skarbek, DVM

I have done this before… staredat the October deadline and saidwhat? Headless Horseman Motors hasbeen done. Sleepy Hollow Sales fallsflat. Then I thought of my automotiveadventures this summer and an article Iwrote ten years ago and a marriage wasmade.

My father rarely succumbed tofamily vacations of any length while I wasgrowing up. However, in 1958 we did gosee his parents in Tryon, NorthCarolina. We took a ‘57 Ford CountrySquire wagon with simulated wood-grained sides for which he built a woodenbox (3/8 birch plywood assembled withcountersunk brass screws and sporting aclear shellac finish) which he thenmounted on the roof to hold everythingwe would need for both casual and formalevents on our “tour” of the south. Intothis un-air-conditioned environment heplaced a family of six along with the familybaby-sitter to take care of thechildren. Now dare I say it? GertrudeSteptoe was a woman of color. There, thereality of the ‘50’s is out! The only thinghe didn’t plan for was that while thismight be a fine arrangement living nearWashington D.C. it made traveling in theSouth of the 1950’s somewhatdifficult. Finding overnightaccommodations for our integrated familywas a bit unique.

As part of our fun vacationactivities we were often dressed in whiteduck shorts, knee-socks and seersuckerblazers (my sister of course wore glovesand a hat) and whisked away to cocktailparties at peoples’ homes who had nameslike Whippy and Sneezy. Then, havingdowned our Shirley Temples and eatenour fill of limp triskets, (that’s a band

right?) we found ourselvesdismissed from the adultcompany and were leftstanding face to face and eyeto eye with the children ofthe tenant farmers andinstructed to enjoyourselves. These childrenhad no shoes and lived in aworld so different from minethat since the age of fivethat image has never leftme. They did, however, havea water rocket. If you wantto bring kids togetherintroduce water, ice-creamor watermelon. I think theyall work equally well andshould be used more often.

This summer whenvisiting relations in Asheville

I related that tale only to get an emphatic,“You got off easy!” from cousin Rick. Itseems his summer vacations started with a10-12 hour whistle stop train ride fromWashington DC to Abingdon, Virginia withhis mother and sister. His father stayedhome. They packed a lunch and were notallowed to go to the dining car, explorethe train or get out of their seats. Theywere met at the station by a relative ofsome kind and then proceeded west by carfor another 2-3 hours until they arrived atGrandma’s house up on a ridgesomewhere west of known civilization.

There he enjoyed two full weeksof solitude. No activities, no TV, nocousins his age and each day thesame. Start breakfast and clean up and goin the garden. Then prepare dinner andclean up and go in the garden. And yes,then you fixed supper, cleaned up andwent to bed at dark and stayed quiet soyou wouldn’t wake up the grandparentswho had to be up early to startbreakfast….

When at 12 or 13 he said hewasn’t going his dad just said, “Okay.” Henever went. His poor sister continued thetradition for many more years.

“Where the sun comes up aboutten in the morning….” Thanks, DarrellScott

[email protected]

Rim Vining wrote this while listening toSinatra’s “The Summer Wind.”

AutoKnown Betterhow i spent my summer vacation

By Rim Vining

ROXBURY FARM & GARDEN CENTERMAIN: (540) 373-9124

NURSERY: (540) 371-8802601 LAFAYETTE BLVD

roxburyfarmgarden.comSince 1929

Grass Seed, Mums, Pumpkins,and Fall Planting

Wine & Beer Making SuppliesAnd This Just In!...

Sod By The Rollpp rr ee - oo rr dd ee rr ss rr ee cc oo mm mm ee nn dd ee dd

online:www.save7lives.org

in person:Dept. of Motor Vehicles

SupportingLocal

ArtistsSince 1997


540/374-0462www.woahvets.com 10 Walsh Lane

Stacy L. Horner, DVM; Gary B. Dunn, DVM; Melanie Bell, DVM; Sandi L. Pepper, DVM; Melissa A. DeLauter, DVM ;

Arlene Evans, DVM; Jennnifer Skarbek, DVM

Full Service Hospitalfeaturing:

Grooming Salon Canine Boarding

in Our Indoor/Outdoor RunsDog Training &

Behavioral Consults with certified dog trainer

Feline Boarding in OurSpacious Multi-room Condos

Serving you & your companion animals for 16 years

Keyboard ClassesAges 3 - Adult

Free Introductory LessonSchedule at:

ymsfred.com 371-4526

YAMAHA MUSIC SCHOOLOF FREDERICKBURG

207 William Street

Classes now in Session


My husband and I just purchasedour first home. While I’m excited for thishuge step, I’m a bit concerned that mypets may not share my enthusiasm for thechange. Their lives revolve around threethings: me, food, and their territory. Iworry they may get upset by theunfamiliar environment and odors.

Luckily for me, I work alongsidesome pretty great trainers (insert plug forPositive Touch Training here – honestly,they are very good at what they do) whohave armed me with several options onhow to help my beasties transition to anew home. The first recommendation isto put appeasing pheromones into thehome before the animals even arrive.These pheromones are airborne synthetichormones that induce a calming moodover pets. They are easy to use, just pluginto an outlet and change the cartridgeabout once a month, and they don’t havean odor humans can detect. There arespecies-specific pheromones for both catsand dogs. Another consideration beforedogs arrive at their new pad is to exercisethem. It may be helpful to take dogs fora walk around the new neighborhood totake in all the new sites, smells, and peoplewhile burning off some energy that mayotherwise be transformed into over-stimulation and anxiety at the new home.

Once you’re ready to bring yourpets onto the premise, start by placingfamiliar items into the unfamiliarenvironment. Some of the first items youshould unload at a new home are kennels,pet toys, bowls, and bedding. Another wayto help your pet cope is to keep a normalschedule during the chaos of unpacking.If you feed or walk your pet at the sametime every day then be sure to continuethat routine.

Another tool that is gainingpopularity is the ThunderShirt. They lookridiculous on television commercials and

there are some entertaining Internetvideos of pets wearing them, but theabsurd looking pet attire can really work!Plus they have a 45-day guarantee so youcan at least give it a try. Trainersrecommend to get your furry friendacclimated to wearing it during happy,non-stressful times before you use it in astressful situation.

If you move into a home likemine that has urine stained carpet fromthe previous animal inhabitant,unfortunately the carpet and pad has tobe torn up and trashed. It’s important toalso treat the sub-flooring with anenzymatic cleaner made for pet stains anda sealant. If the odor is not completelyresolved, your pets will smell the previousurine and likely start marking the flooringthemselves.

If none of the above adaptationsare adequate at keeping your pet happyand healthy, you should consult a certifiedtrainer and your veterinarian. A trainerwill have ideas more specific to your pet’sresponses, and a veterinarian mayprescribe behavior-modifying medications.Be aware that medications can have sideeffects or change the personality of yourfour-legged friend. It is almost alwaysbest to try training before medication,and then continue training in addition tomedication.

These coping devises can also beused to reduce anxiety in many otherstressful situations. For example,separation anxiety, guests in the home(the holidays are coming), and badweather. I’ve even had a patient get upsetwhen the owners purchased a new couch!

Dr. Jennifer Skarbek, DVM, who practicesat White Oak Animal Hospital,

reminds you to update pet tags and/ormicrochip information when you

move to a new address.

Companion Carewhen you move

by jennifer skarbek, DVM

I have done this before… staredat the October deadline and saidwhat? Headless Horseman Motors hasbeen done. Sleepy Hollow Sales fallsflat. Then I thought of my automotiveadventures this summer and an article Iwrote ten years ago and a marriage wasmade.

My father rarely succumbed tofamily vacations of any length while I wasgrowing up. However, in 1958 we did gosee his parents in Tryon, NorthCarolina. We took a ‘57 Ford CountrySquire wagon with simulated wood-grained sides for which he built a woodenbox (3/8 birch plywood assembled withcountersunk brass screws and sporting aclear shellac finish) which he thenmounted on the roof to hold everythingwe would need for both casual and formalevents on our “tour” of the south. Intothis un-air-conditioned environment heplaced a family of six along with the familybaby-sitter to take care of thechildren. Now dare I say it? GertrudeSteptoe was a woman of color. There, thereality of the ‘50’s is out! The only thinghe didn’t plan for was that while thismight be a fine arrangement living nearWashington D.C. it made traveling in theSouth of the 1950’s somewhatdifficult. Finding overnightaccommodations for our integrated familywas a bit unique.

As part of our fun vacationactivities we were often dressed in whiteduck shorts, knee-socks and seersuckerblazers (my sister of course wore glovesand a hat) and whisked away to cocktailparties at peoples’ homes who had nameslike Whippy and Sneezy. Then, havingdowned our Shirley Temples and eatenour fill of limp triskets, (that’s a band

right?) we found ourselvesdismissed from the adultcompany and were leftstanding face to face and eyeto eye with the children ofthe tenant farmers andinstructed to enjoyourselves. These childrenhad no shoes and lived in aworld so different from minethat since the age of fivethat image has never leftme. They did, however, havea water rocket. If you wantto bring kids togetherintroduce water, ice-creamor watermelon. I think theyall work equally well andshould be used more often.

This summer whenvisiting relations in Asheville

I related that tale only to get an emphatic,“You got off easy!” from cousin Rick. Itseems his summer vacations started with a10-12 hour whistle stop train ride fromWashington DC to Abingdon, Virginia withhis mother and sister. His father stayedhome. They packed a lunch and were notallowed to go to the dining car, explorethe train or get out of their seats. Theywere met at the station by a relative ofsome kind and then proceeded west by carfor another 2-3 hours until they arrived atGrandma’s house up on a ridgesomewhere west of known civilization.

There he enjoyed two full weeksof solitude. No activities, no TV, nocousins his age and each day thesame. Start breakfast and clean up and goin the garden. Then prepare dinner andclean up and go in the garden. And yes,then you fixed supper, cleaned up andwent to bed at dark and stayed quiet soyou wouldn’t wake up the grandparentswho had to be up early to startbreakfast….

When at 12 or 13 he said hewasn’t going his dad just said, “Okay.” Henever went. His poor sister continued thetradition for many more years.

“Where the sun comes up aboutten in the morning….” Thanks, DarrellScott

[email protected]

Rim Vining wrote this while listening toSinatra’s “The Summer Wind.”

AutoKnown Betterhow i spent my summer vacation

By Rim Vining

ROXBURY FARM & GARDEN CENTERMAIN: (540) 373-9124

NURSERY: (540) 371-8802601 LAFAYETTE BLVD

roxburyfarmgarden.comSince 1929

Grass Seed, Mums, Pumpkins,and Fall Planting

Wine & Beer Making SuppliesAnd This Just In!...

Sod By The Rollpp rr ee - oo rr dd ee rr ss rr ee cc oo mm mm ee nn dd ee dd

online:www.save7lives.org

in person:Dept. of Motor Vehicles

SupportingLocal

ArtistsSince 1997


540/374-0462www.woahvets.com 10 Walsh Lane

Stacy L. Horner, DVM; Gary B. Dunn, DVM; Melanie Bell, DVM; Sandi L. Pepper, DVM; Melissa A. DeLauter, DVM ;

Arlene Evans, DVM; Jennnifer Skarbek, DVM

Full Service Hospitalfeaturing:

Grooming Salon Canine Boarding

in Our Indoor/Outdoor RunsDog Training &

Behavioral Consults with certified dog trainer

Feline Boarding in OurSpacious Multi-room Condos

Serving you & your companion animals for 16 years

Keyboard ClassesAges 3 - Adult

Free Introductory LessonSchedule at:

ymsfred.com 371-4526

YAMAHA MUSIC SCHOOLOF FREDERICKBURG

207 William Street

Classes now in Session

The world is in a period ofrapid change and the MetaphysicalSociety is looking forward to providingalternative health services, spiritualsupport, guidance, and knowledge tonourish the greater Burg community.The Metaphysical Conference by theMetaphysical Society of Fredericksburgis Saturday, October 12, 2013 at TheHoliday Inn Express Ballroom, 560Warrenton Road from 10am - 5pm.

Cheryl Shotwell, certified inParanormal Psychology andShamanism, has practiced Feng Shuiand Energy Clearing since 1995, and isan integral part of Meta. She offershome and business consultations andenergy clearing services to attainoptimal health, opportunity, andbalance. According to Cheryl, “We feltit was time this area had a centralizedplatform offering fresh ways tonavigate our metaphysical journeys.There are many people with similargoals, but this particular group combinesunique holistic, metaphysical, and spiritualexperience. We are looking forward tofolding additional local practitioners intoour annual lectures and workshops.”

Marie Johnson, a CertifiedBodyTalk Practitioner, uses a dynamicenergy therapy that addresses the overallgrid of the body by listening to the body’ssigns and expressions. She utilizes amethod that “unravels” imbalances in theorder in which the body wants to mend sothat healing takes place faster and moregently. The BodyTalk method can be usedas a standalone modality or in conjunctionwith modern medical treatments. At theMetaphysical Conference, Marie will notonly explain this great modality, but alsodemonstrate a few techniques that anyonecan learn to use daily.

I (Kandra Orr) will presentanother energy healing modality—Eden

Energy Medicine (EEM), which utilizes nineenergy systems in the body and theelectro-magnetic field to balance disturbedor weak energies before they manifest asillness. EEM activates the body’s naturalability to heal itself and maintain healthand well-being. I’m a Certified EdenEnergy Practitioner, clairvoyant andaromatherapy practitioner. What I findexciting about EEM is its ability not only toheal but also to develop intuition andsensitize people to energy.” I also host theMetaphysical Meetup of Fredericksburg.

Beth Craig, Life Coach, willpresent Emotional Freedom Techniqueand the Passion Test. According to Beth,“EFT can help break down the barriersthat hold people back.” EFT has hadtremendous results in helping veteranswith PTSD. “The Passion Test can helppeople figure out what they are passionateabout so they can begin to manifest their

future. I have met so many people whounderestimate their potential. It bringsme great joy to hold up a mirror so theycan see what I see.”

Certified Health Coach Jen Millerwill teach the amazing powers ofTransformational Nutrition; “My missionis to teach the world to use food as ameans of connection and health. Eatingmindfully, supporting our localcommunity, and listening to your body iswhere health and happiness begins.”

For more information about theconference and the presenters, please seefredmeta.com. Tickets are available onlyon line.

Kandra Orr specializes in Eden EnergyMedicine.

PHOTO CREDIT: “Loving Memories”

I was inspired to write this articleby an incredible client that recently passedaway. His funeral service lasted two andone half hours. People who knew himspoke of his accomplishments,philanthropy, and how he impacted theirlives. He even wrote an autobiography ofhis life, not in a self-serving bragging way,but a humble tribute to the things he didand the lives he impacted along the way.For example, in his early 30’s while blindedin one eye and poor eyesight in the other(the result of a teenage homemade piperocket experiment), his patentrevolutionized the manufacturing offiberglass. Not all of us have such astoried life as he did. However, havinglived for many decades, we all have storiesto tell that our families will cherish.

One of many rewards of owningan eldercare company is stated in ourmission statement: “To enhance the livesof our clients and their families”. One waywe do this is to encourage families tocapture the life stories of their elder lovedones, something regrettably not done inmy family. Having grown up in the GreatDepression, my parents wanted to leavemy sister and me what little money theyhad rather than spend it to improve theirquality of life. While thankful, a morepriceless gift would have been passing onour family history and their life stories.We encourage our caregivers to documenttheir clients’ histories in a Life Journal weprovide. This is a vehicle for the caregiverand client to spend quality time togetherand also give the family something toalways remember. They often learnsomething new about their loved ones.Scrapbooking is another way we capturefamily history.

Research has found that tellingstories about one’s life through a moreformal practice, known as life reviews, has

many additional benefits for seniors.Going through the process of reviewingone’s life can: improve self-esteem,decrease or prevent depression, improvecognitive function, socially engage peoplewho have dementia, and even reducechronic pain. Hospitals, hospices, andother settings for those close to death orvery ill are using life reviews as dignity orreminiscence therapy to help bringclosure to lives. There are many formaland informal ways to write life reviews.For those who want some assistance inwriting their own life story, the websitewww.lifebio.com may be of interest andhelp by providing a template and onlinethought provoking questions. Withtoday’s online technologies, written lifestories can be easily turned into a printedbook. My wife, Roberta, had a book madefor each of our adult children withchildhood pictures and creative captionsand designs. This was one of the best giftswe ever gave them. The website iswww.smilebooks.com.

So, as we approach the holidayseason and spend time with loved ones, setaside some time away from football gamesand other distractions to discuss yourfamily history. Capture some stories,happy or sad, funny or serious. Take timelater to write them down, or better yet,video or voice record them as they aretold. They will be cherished forgenerations to come and you will alwayssay, as Bob Hope captured in his famoussignature theme song, “Thanks for theMemory.”

Karl Karch is a local franchise owner ofHome Instead Senior Care, a licensed

home care organization providingpersonal care, companionship and home

helper services. Please go towww.homeinstead.com/614.


Healthcare For the Whole Person

SPECIALIZING IN:

Gentle, Individualized Chiropractic CareCranio-Sacral Balancing (Sacro

Occipital Technique - SOT)Addressing Your Total Health Needs

with Natural, Holistic Treatment MethodsDetoxification/Weight

Loss Nutritional Programs

Dr. ChristineThompson

Let’s Get Metaphysical

Fxbg’s first meta conference

By kandra orr

Senior Care capturing life stories

By Karl Karch

Your Hot Yoga Studio

540-659-0777

staffordhouseofyoga.com

971 Garrisonville Rd Stafford

Fire in the Hole!Prevention in the Kitchen

Top Chef, Master Chef and IronChef, among others—center aroundculinary expertise in the kitchen.Chefs like Emeril Lagasse and RoccoDiSpirito have rockstar status.Couples schedule cooking vacations inexotic locales, and kids developgourmet tastes from creating disheswith Mom and Dad. There’s noquestion that meal prep is today’s funfamily. But, beware — cooking firesare the number one cause of homefires and injuries; such is the themefor Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 6-112.

Capt. Mike Passera ofChancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescuesays a large number of calls are fromemergency signals from smoke alarmsin the kitchen. “Our firefirghters andrescue workers have responded to callslate at night due to somethingburning on the stove that thehomeowner completely forgot about.”

Passera believes the push tomulti-task at work carries over to thehome. “Everyone feels they have to domany things at once, which can lead tolack of attention and focus when it’simportant to stay alert.” Carelessnessleads to scalds and burns if cooking isneglected on the stove or in the oven.What seemed to be simmering safelycan ignite on an unattended stovetop.

The National Fire ProtectionAssociation adds:

It’s best not to use the stove orstovetop if you are sleepy or haveconsumed alcohol.

Have a “kid-free zone” of atleast 3 feet around the stove and areaswhere hot food or drink is prepared orcarried.

If you leave the kitchen foreven a short period of time, turn offthe stove. Use a timer to remind youthat cooking is taking place.

Keep anything that can catchfire away from the stovetop.

Identify two exits in anemergency and keep these exits clearof furniture and clutter.

Be sure to have a workingsmoke alarm and a fire extinguisher.

For more tips visitwww.firepreventionweek.org — SaraHunt, Sr. PR Mgr. at Touch Points

The world is in a period ofrapid change and the MetaphysicalSociety is looking forward to providingalternative health services, spiritualsupport, guidance, and knowledge tonourish the greater Burg community.The Metaphysical Conference by theMetaphysical Society of Fredericksburgis Saturday, October 12, 2013 at TheHoliday Inn Express Ballroom, 560Warrenton Road from 10am - 5pm.

Cheryl Shotwell, certified inParanormal Psychology andShamanism, has practiced Feng Shuiand Energy Clearing since 1995, and isan integral part of Meta. She offershome and business consultations andenergy clearing services to attainoptimal health, opportunity, andbalance. According to Cheryl, “We feltit was time this area had a centralizedplatform offering fresh ways tonavigate our metaphysical journeys.There are many people with similargoals, but this particular group combinesunique holistic, metaphysical, and spiritualexperience. We are looking forward tofolding additional local practitioners intoour annual lectures and workshops.”

Marie Johnson, a CertifiedBodyTalk Practitioner, uses a dynamicenergy therapy that addresses the overallgrid of the body by listening to the body’ssigns and expressions. She utilizes amethod that “unravels” imbalances in theorder in which the body wants to mend sothat healing takes place faster and moregently. The BodyTalk method can be usedas a standalone modality or in conjunctionwith modern medical treatments. At theMetaphysical Conference, Marie will notonly explain this great modality, but alsodemonstrate a few techniques that anyonecan learn to use daily.

I (Kandra Orr) will presentanother energy healing modality—Eden

Energy Medicine (EEM), which utilizes nineenergy systems in the body and theelectro-magnetic field to balance disturbedor weak energies before they manifest asillness. EEM activates the body’s naturalability to heal itself and maintain healthand well-being. I’m a Certified EdenEnergy Practitioner, clairvoyant andaromatherapy practitioner. What I findexciting about EEM is its ability not only toheal but also to develop intuition andsensitize people to energy.” I also host theMetaphysical Meetup of Fredericksburg.

Beth Craig, Life Coach, willpresent Emotional Freedom Techniqueand the Passion Test. According to Beth,“EFT can help break down the barriersthat hold people back.” EFT has hadtremendous results in helping veteranswith PTSD. “The Passion Test can helppeople figure out what they are passionateabout so they can begin to manifest their

future. I have met so many people whounderestimate their potential. It bringsme great joy to hold up a mirror so theycan see what I see.”

Certified Health Coach Jen Millerwill teach the amazing powers ofTransformational Nutrition; “My missionis to teach the world to use food as ameans of connection and health. Eatingmindfully, supporting our localcommunity, and listening to your body iswhere health and happiness begins.”

For more information about theconference and the presenters, please seefredmeta.com. Tickets are available onlyon line.

Kandra Orr specializes in Eden EnergyMedicine.

PHOTO CREDIT: “Loving Memories”

I was inspired to write this articleby an incredible client that recently passedaway. His funeral service lasted two andone half hours. People who knew himspoke of his accomplishments,philanthropy, and how he impacted theirlives. He even wrote an autobiography ofhis life, not in a self-serving bragging way,but a humble tribute to the things he didand the lives he impacted along the way.For example, in his early 30’s while blindedin one eye and poor eyesight in the other(the result of a teenage homemade piperocket experiment), his patentrevolutionized the manufacturing offiberglass. Not all of us have such astoried life as he did. However, havinglived for many decades, we all have storiesto tell that our families will cherish.

One of many rewards of owningan eldercare company is stated in ourmission statement: “To enhance the livesof our clients and their families”. One waywe do this is to encourage families tocapture the life stories of their elder lovedones, something regrettably not done inmy family. Having grown up in the GreatDepression, my parents wanted to leavemy sister and me what little money theyhad rather than spend it to improve theirquality of life. While thankful, a morepriceless gift would have been passing onour family history and their life stories.We encourage our caregivers to documenttheir clients’ histories in a Life Journal weprovide. This is a vehicle for the caregiverand client to spend quality time togetherand also give the family something toalways remember. They often learnsomething new about their loved ones.Scrapbooking is another way we capturefamily history.

Research has found that tellingstories about one’s life through a moreformal practice, known as life reviews, has

many additional benefits for seniors.Going through the process of reviewingone’s life can: improve self-esteem,decrease or prevent depression, improvecognitive function, socially engage peoplewho have dementia, and even reducechronic pain. Hospitals, hospices, andother settings for those close to death orvery ill are using life reviews as dignity orreminiscence therapy to help bringclosure to lives. There are many formaland informal ways to write life reviews.For those who want some assistance inwriting their own life story, the websitewww.lifebio.com may be of interest andhelp by providing a template and onlinethought provoking questions. Withtoday’s online technologies, written lifestories can be easily turned into a printedbook. My wife, Roberta, had a book madefor each of our adult children withchildhood pictures and creative captionsand designs. This was one of the best giftswe ever gave them. The website iswww.smilebooks.com.

So, as we approach the holidayseason and spend time with loved ones, setaside some time away from football gamesand other distractions to discuss yourfamily history. Capture some stories,happy or sad, funny or serious. Take timelater to write them down, or better yet,video or voice record them as they aretold. They will be cherished forgenerations to come and you will alwayssay, as Bob Hope captured in his famoussignature theme song, “Thanks for theMemory.”

Karl Karch is a local franchise owner ofHome Instead Senior Care, a licensed

home care organization providingpersonal care, companionship and home

helper services. Please go towww.homeinstead.com/614.


Healthcare For the Whole Person

SPECIALIZING IN:

Gentle, Individualized Chiropractic CareCranio-Sacral Balancing (Sacro

Occipital Technique - SOT)Addressing Your Total Health Needs

with Natural, Holistic Treatment MethodsDetoxification/Weight

Loss Nutritional Programs

Dr. ChristineThompson

Let’s Get Metaphysical

Fxbg’s first meta conference

By kandra orr

Senior Care capturing life stories

By Karl Karch

Your Hot Yoga Studio

540-659-0777

staffordhouseofyoga.com

971 Garrisonville Rd Stafford

Fire in the Hole!Prevention in the Kitchen

Top Chef, Master Chef and IronChef, among others—center aroundculinary expertise in the kitchen.Chefs like Emeril Lagasse and RoccoDiSpirito have rockstar status.Couples schedule cooking vacations inexotic locales, and kids developgourmet tastes from creating disheswith Mom and Dad. There’s noquestion that meal prep is today’s funfamily. But, beware — cooking firesare the number one cause of homefires and injuries; such is the themefor Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 6-112.

Capt. Mike Passera ofChancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescuesays a large number of calls are fromemergency signals from smoke alarmsin the kitchen. “Our firefirghters andrescue workers have responded to callslate at night due to somethingburning on the stove that thehomeowner completely forgot about.”

Passera believes the push tomulti-task at work carries over to thehome. “Everyone feels they have to domany things at once, which can lead tolack of attention and focus when it’simportant to stay alert.” Carelessnessleads to scalds and burns if cooking isneglected on the stove or in the oven.What seemed to be simmering safelycan ignite on an unattended stovetop.

The National Fire ProtectionAssociation adds:

It’s best not to use the stove orstovetop if you are sleepy or haveconsumed alcohol.

Have a “kid-free zone” of atleast 3 feet around the stove and areaswhere hot food or drink is prepared orcarried.

If you leave the kitchen foreven a short period of time, turn offthe stove. Use a timer to remind youthat cooking is taking place.

Keep anything that can catchfire away from the stovetop.

Identify two exits in anemergency and keep these exits clearof furniture and clutter.

Be sure to have a workingsmoke alarm and a fire extinguisher.

For more tips visitwww.firepreventionweek.org — SaraHunt, Sr. PR Mgr. at Touch Points

Nurturing a child’s creativity andself-expression is the inspired mission ofThe Creative Side art studio and gallery,513 Jackson. Their Sixth AnnualChildren’s Art Show & Costume Partyopens First Friday, Oct. 4 with Artists’Reception 5-8PM, with every participantribboning.

Owner Deborah Munro: “It’simportant that every child who has thecourage to enter their art should receive aribbon, even if it’s not a place ribbon.”Featuring artists 2 years old through 12thgrade, the exhibition is open Oct. 5-17,Thurs 4:30-7pm, Sat 10:30-1pm. Thereception also offerS face painting tocomplement children’s costumes, artdemos in a Fall/Halloween theme, andplenty of snacks.

Munro says, “We display thechildren’s latest artworks every month,and as far as I know we are the onlygallery downtown that hosts First Fridaycelebrations specifically for children.”

Today’s Creative Side offers

children’s art classes after starting on amuch smaller scale 9 years ago in Munro’sbasement. It began with neighborhoodkids, then moved on to Parks & Recreationdepartments in Fxbg and Spotsy. She laterestablished the current Jackson Streetstudio, also teaching at Stafford Parks &Rec, LibertyTown, the Marshall Center andafter-school programs in King George.

Most classes are offered yearround in 4-week sessions with modestprices varying per class. Students displayworks in a gallery setting at monthly FirstFridays. Drawing & painting classesfeature age appropriate assignmentsgeared to help individual expression. ArtExploration-Mom and Me classes forpreschoolers loving art teach basicdrawing, painting and crafting skills indifferent media.

Comic Art provides fundamentalcartooning skills for the comic book orgraphic novel medium. Student MariannaSmith recently published her own comicbook and attended a comic bookconvention where she sold several copies.The Creative Side has had several studentsaccepted into Focus Art in Stafford CountyPublic Schools, and helped many studentsprepare portfolios for college.

“My focus right now is startingour newest program for children withautism, Art for Awareness.” says Munro. Acertified paraprofessional counselor with aBA in Psychology from UVA, Munro ispassionate about working with people ofall ages who have special needs. Over theyears, they’ve had many children withspecial needs and parents requestingprivate lessons for more one on one timewith the instructor.

“Private lessons can be costly andsometimes difficult to schedule. That’s

why we’re offering classes specifically forchildren with autism. Art for Awarenesswill have a higher teacher to student ratio,plus it’s much cheaper than a privatelesson.” Munro will add more classes forchildren with special needs.

“We’ve seen time and again howart can be a life changer, the act ofcreating can be very therapeutic.Students are so proud of theiraccomplishments, you watch theirconfidence build as they grow as artists.”

One such talented young studentis Ray Nelson, currently taking privatelessons and creating a truly amazingportfolio. For more information aboutThe Creative Side, contact Deb Munro at540.846.8920 ord e b o r a h m u n r o @ c o m c a s t . n e t .www.thecreativesideinc.com

Lezlie Cheryl writes about Fxbg artseach month. Contact her at

[email protected]

Lotsa cool things happened lastmonth and we’ll get to the rest of them, Ipromise – but first we’ve got to talk aboutthe Toast of the Town – which was,naturally, the coolest of them all. KatieDunn, Lexi Grogan, Jessica Sutton, CissyNelson, Kyle Snyder, Kathy Harrington,Betsy Glassie, Gabe Pons and a whole hostof other local talents and Papa Gsupporters put together a most fabulousevent full of cheers and toasts! MitziOsterhout, Dawn Darby, Blake and AbyBethem, 25 30 Espresso, the team at Miso,Christi Carver, Jannan Holmes, Bill Beck,Jeremy Harrison, Nick Cadwallender (atright in photo below with Blake Bethemand Rob Grogan), Wayne Gootee, TommyMitchell, Kadeana Langford, ChrisLimbrick, Jenny and Dudley Dupuy, Mattand Stephanie Caspersen, Kellie Walsh,Lori Izykowski, Hugh Cosner, were on handto support Rob and even engage in somelittle healthy bidding wars in the process!It was a beautiful evening, it was full ofbeautiful people. We all love ya, Rob!

In my next lives, I want to be asurfer, ballerina, and a house cat (I mayhave already mentioned this once before).To get started on at least one of those inthis life, I’m all about the barre class andValya Karcher is helping to make it allpossible on Tuesday evenings in her studioabove Jabberwocky on Caroline Streetwhere she’s teaching barre pilates.

Well, Fredericksburg, it looks likeour collective dreams are coming true.Kathy Craddock and Brandi Fishback areour grocery guardian angels and arebringing Kickshaws Organic Marketdowntown. Details are few and farbetween at the moment – even thelocation is hush-hush, but I’m confidentthese ladies will lead us to our promisedland.

Speaking of collective dreamscoming true, VIVIFY OPENED. As MirandaPriestley would say: that’s all.

Seen: Matthew Stoakescelebrating his birthday at Kybecca withwife Bobbi, Instagraming his way throughcocktail hour; Rene Rodriguez at HyperionEspresso on one of those line-to-the-doormornings; Jenny Hellier picking up someessentials (and non-essentials, as one does)at Target; Jacqueline Dickson shoppingwith a friend on a Sunday afternoon atMarshall’s; Carrie Schaefer and TomEskam having a happy hour at BistroBethem; Sarah Appleby living back inFredericksburg and (I hope) gearing up tostart back up at book club.

Scene: Ben Eldridge (Secondfrom Right above) celebrated his 75th (!)birthday with his nearest and dearest at asurprise party.

Heard: local attorney LeliaKilgore is planning to build a sweet suiteof a home/office combo downtown in thecoming months. Cutting a commute downto zero minutes sounds pretty choice, no?

Seen: Long-time library staffersJenny McGee (at Left in photo above withLexi Grogan) and Emma Harrison earnedtheir 10-year pin and 20-year pin,respectively, for their service at the CRRL.

Heard: local performerBethany Cleveland is opening up forForeigner in San Francisco.

Y’all, I hope you’ll indulge me fora second while I send some shout-outs tothose that made last month’s FORAGEfashion show such a success. Dave Weadonis the coolest for opening up his gallery toour shop, Brian Lam is the coolest forproducing the show, using his rad NYCshow-producing skills, Morgan Forrest is

the coolest for helping with hair, make-upand photography, Fran Carter is the mostgenerous for helping with hair, Michael“Moog” Cowger is the most awesome forDJ’ing the show putting together a custommix for the girls to walk to, and MegDumlao, Jacquie Damm, Jaymie Pitman,Kylie Westerbeck, Marrea Raza, Resse Silva,Emilie Pryor were (just a few!) of the,sweet talented girls who volunteered theirtime and beauty to model. Thanks also to

Rebecca Thomas, Mayor Greenlaw, LisaOlson, Betsy Park, Lindsey Quinn and allothers who came out to check out the duds.

Booze news: Brian Prewittwas named master distiller at A SmithBowman distillery. I think you’d be hardpressed to find a cooler title than masterdistiller, for sure. Congrats, Brian!

Happiest of happy birthdays toKadeana Langford, Kelly Pawlik, KennyEllinger, Calvin Roberts, Jay D Anderson,Mari Kelly, Gabe Pons, Aby Bethem, GuerinWolf, Michael Payne, Edwin Wyant, andBlaize Rai.

Scene: Art Attacked the streetsof Fredericksburg for the second time lastmonth on a beautiful fall-ish Saturdayafternoon. Artists lined downtown streetsarmed with canvas, paint, clay, pencils andchalk to create one-of-a-kind pieces of arten plein air. Laura Craig, Seth Casana, BillHarris (photo below), Dan Finnegan, GabePons, Scarlett Suhy-PPons, Jenna Andersonand Carter Corbin were just a few of theparticipating creatives.


by megan byrnes

STUDIO: LIBERTYTOWN

916 LIBERTY ST. FREDERICKSBURG, VA

BETSYGLASSIE.COM

[email protected]

540-899-6556

B e t s y G l a s s i e

Deb Munro Her creative kids rule!

By lezlie cheryl

12 years in Market Square alley

Original OilsGiclee Print City Scenes

brucedaystudio.com

540 376-1676

Bruce Day Fine Art

Beverly Coates“Artfully Arranged”

Brush Strokes Gallery824 Caroline St.

Downtown Fredericksburg368-0560

and additional works byBBeevveerrllyy CCooaatteess at

810 Weekend Gallery 810 Caroline St. Downtown

371-4099

BY RAY NELSON (child)

Nurturing a child’s creativity andself-expression is the inspired mission ofThe Creative Side art studio and gallery,513 Jackson. Their Sixth AnnualChildren’s Art Show & Costume Partyopens First Friday, Oct. 4 with Artists’Reception 5-8PM, with every participantribboning.

Owner Deborah Munro: “It’simportant that every child who has thecourage to enter their art should receive aribbon, even if it’s not a place ribbon.”Featuring artists 2 years old through 12thgrade, the exhibition is open Oct. 5-17,Thurs 4:30-7pm, Sat 10:30-1pm. Thereception also offerS face painting tocomplement children’s costumes, artdemos in a Fall/Halloween theme, andplenty of snacks.

Munro says, “We display thechildren’s latest artworks every month,and as far as I know we are the onlygallery downtown that hosts First Fridaycelebrations specifically for children.”

Today’s Creative Side offers

children’s art classes after starting on amuch smaller scale 9 years ago in Munro’sbasement. It began with neighborhoodkids, then moved on to Parks & Recreationdepartments in Fxbg and Spotsy. She laterestablished the current Jackson Streetstudio, also teaching at Stafford Parks &Rec, LibertyTown, the Marshall Center andafter-school programs in King George.

Most classes are offered yearround in 4-week sessions with modestprices varying per class. Students displayworks in a gallery setting at monthly FirstFridays. Drawing & painting classesfeature age appropriate assignmentsgeared to help individual expression. ArtExploration-Mom and Me classes forpreschoolers loving art teach basicdrawing, painting and crafting skills indifferent media.

Comic Art provides fundamentalcartooning skills for the comic book orgraphic novel medium. Student MariannaSmith recently published her own comicbook and attended a comic bookconvention where she sold several copies.The Creative Side has had several studentsaccepted into Focus Art in Stafford CountyPublic Schools, and helped many studentsprepare portfolios for college.

“My focus right now is startingour newest program for children withautism, Art for Awareness.” says Munro. Acertified paraprofessional counselor with aBA in Psychology from UVA, Munro ispassionate about working with people ofall ages who have special needs. Over theyears, they’ve had many children withspecial needs and parents requestingprivate lessons for more one on one timewith the instructor.

“Private lessons can be costly andsometimes difficult to schedule. That’s

why we’re offering classes specifically forchildren with autism. Art for Awarenesswill have a higher teacher to student ratio,plus it’s much cheaper than a privatelesson.” Munro will add more classes forchildren with special needs.

“We’ve seen time and again howart can be a life changer, the act ofcreating can be very therapeutic.Students are so proud of theiraccomplishments, you watch theirconfidence build as they grow as artists.”

One such talented young studentis Ray Nelson, currently taking privatelessons and creating a truly amazingportfolio. For more information aboutThe Creative Side, contact Deb Munro at540.846.8920 ord e b o r a h m u n r o @ c o m c a s t . n e t .www.thecreativesideinc.com

Lezlie Cheryl writes about Fxbg artseach month. Contact her at

[email protected]

Lotsa cool things happened lastmonth and we’ll get to the rest of them, Ipromise – but first we’ve got to talk aboutthe Toast of the Town – which was,naturally, the coolest of them all. KatieDunn, Lexi Grogan, Jessica Sutton, CissyNelson, Kyle Snyder, Kathy Harrington,Betsy Glassie, Gabe Pons and a whole hostof other local talents and Papa Gsupporters put together a most fabulousevent full of cheers and toasts! MitziOsterhout, Dawn Darby, Blake and AbyBethem, 25 30 Espresso, the team at Miso,Christi Carver, Jannan Holmes, Bill Beck,Jeremy Harrison, Nick Cadwallender (atright in photo below with Blake Bethemand Rob Grogan), Wayne Gootee, TommyMitchell, Kadeana Langford, ChrisLimbrick, Jenny and Dudley Dupuy, Mattand Stephanie Caspersen, Kellie Walsh,Lori Izykowski, Hugh Cosner, were on handto support Rob and even engage in somelittle healthy bidding wars in the process!It was a beautiful evening, it was full ofbeautiful people. We all love ya, Rob!

In my next lives, I want to be asurfer, ballerina, and a house cat (I mayhave already mentioned this once before).To get started on at least one of those inthis life, I’m all about the barre class andValya Karcher is helping to make it allpossible on Tuesday evenings in her studioabove Jabberwocky on Caroline Streetwhere she’s teaching barre pilates.

Well, Fredericksburg, it looks likeour collective dreams are coming true.Kathy Craddock and Brandi Fishback areour grocery guardian angels and arebringing Kickshaws Organic Marketdowntown. Details are few and farbetween at the moment – even thelocation is hush-hush, but I’m confidentthese ladies will lead us to our promisedland.

Speaking of collective dreamscoming true, VIVIFY OPENED. As MirandaPriestley would say: that’s all.

Seen: Matthew Stoakescelebrating his birthday at Kybecca withwife Bobbi, Instagraming his way throughcocktail hour; Rene Rodriguez at HyperionEspresso on one of those line-to-the-doormornings; Jenny Hellier picking up someessentials (and non-essentials, as one does)at Target; Jacqueline Dickson shoppingwith a friend on a Sunday afternoon atMarshall’s; Carrie Schaefer and TomEskam having a happy hour at BistroBethem; Sarah Appleby living back inFredericksburg and (I hope) gearing up tostart back up at book club.

Scene: Ben Eldridge (Secondfrom Right above) celebrated his 75th (!)birthday with his nearest and dearest at asurprise party.

Heard: local attorney LeliaKilgore is planning to build a sweet suiteof a home/office combo downtown in thecoming months. Cutting a commute downto zero minutes sounds pretty choice, no?

Seen: Long-time library staffersJenny McGee (at Left in photo above withLexi Grogan) and Emma Harrison earnedtheir 10-year pin and 20-year pin,respectively, for their service at the CRRL.

Heard: local performerBethany Cleveland is opening up forForeigner in San Francisco.

Y’all, I hope you’ll indulge me fora second while I send some shout-outs tothose that made last month’s FORAGEfashion show such a success. Dave Weadonis the coolest for opening up his gallery toour shop, Brian Lam is the coolest forproducing the show, using his rad NYCshow-producing skills, Morgan Forrest is

the coolest for helping with hair, make-upand photography, Fran Carter is the mostgenerous for helping with hair, Michael“Moog” Cowger is the most awesome forDJ’ing the show putting together a custommix for the girls to walk to, and MegDumlao, Jacquie Damm, Jaymie Pitman,Kylie Westerbeck, Marrea Raza, Resse Silva,Emilie Pryor were (just a few!) of the,sweet talented girls who volunteered theirtime and beauty to model. Thanks also to

Rebecca Thomas, Mayor Greenlaw, LisaOlson, Betsy Park, Lindsey Quinn and allothers who came out to check out the duds.

Booze news: Brian Prewittwas named master distiller at A SmithBowman distillery. I think you’d be hardpressed to find a cooler title than masterdistiller, for sure. Congrats, Brian!

Happiest of happy birthdays toKadeana Langford, Kelly Pawlik, KennyEllinger, Calvin Roberts, Jay D Anderson,Mari Kelly, Gabe Pons, Aby Bethem, GuerinWolf, Michael Payne, Edwin Wyant, andBlaize Rai.

Scene: Art Attacked the streetsof Fredericksburg for the second time lastmonth on a beautiful fall-ish Saturdayafternoon. Artists lined downtown streetsarmed with canvas, paint, clay, pencils andchalk to create one-of-a-kind pieces of arten plein air. Laura Craig, Seth Casana, BillHarris (photo below), Dan Finnegan, GabePons, Scarlett Suhy-PPons, Jenna Andersonand Carter Corbin were just a few of theparticipating creatives.


by megan byrnes

STUDIO: LIBERTYTOWN

916 LIBERTY ST. FREDERICKSBURG, VA

BETSYGLASSIE.COM

[email protected]

540-899-6556

B e t s y G l a s s i e

Deb Munro Her creative kids rule!

By lezlie cheryl

12 years in Market Square alley

Original OilsGiclee Print City Scenes

brucedaystudio.com

540 376-1676

Bruce Day Fine Art

Beverly Coates“Artfully Arranged”

Brush Strokes Gallery824 Caroline St.

Downtown Fredericksburg368-0560

and additional works byBBeevveerrllyy CCooaatteess at

810 Weekend Gallery 810 Caroline St. Downtown

371-4099

BY RAY NELSON (child)

In October, 1963 the “Gallery ofModern Art” opened at the SilversmithHouse on Sophia Street. The gallery was

modeled on the “20th CenturyGallery” in Williamsburg. Bothgalleries were purposed to bring artawareness and museum quality artto their respective communities.

Now known as the FredericksburgCenter of the Creative Arts (apartner of the Virginia Museum ofFine Arts), or FCCA, the gallery hasprogressed and developed throughthe direction of its many volunteers.Many things have changed but thespirit of volunteerism has prevailedfor 50 years.

This ever changing group ofvolunteers has brought art, music,poetry, classes for children andadults and speakers to the little 18thcentury building by the river at 813Sophia Street. Concurrently, thesame volunteers have raised fundsto maintain and restore what is oneof the most charming buildings inthe city.

These volunteers, past andpresent, know the importance ofnurturing the sensitivity of what iscreative in all of us. Art makes us aware ofthe world around us, aware of each otherand helps us to behave humanely. Theirstimulus and input have affected theartists, students and townspeople and, as aresult, Fredericksburg is a moreinteresting place to live in and to visit.

The growth of art venues andactivities in the last 20 years has added tothe economic health and vibrancy of ourdowntown and the surrounding area. Thesteady presence of the FCCA for 50 yearshas been a beacon of encouragement.

On November 2, 2013, the FCCAwill celebrate “A 50th Anniversary Salon”at the Fredericksburg Country Club. Thisticketed event will include entertainment,good food and drink and art from memberartists. We will raise our glasses and toast

all the volunteers - past, present andfuture - who continue to dedicate theirtime and energy to make ART an integralpart of our community.

For ticket information for “50Anniversary Salon” on Saturday,November 2, 2013 and for other specialevents please visit our websitewww.fccava.org or call (540) 373-5646.

Paula Rose, a painter, has been avibrant part of downtown’s culture and

arts community for decades.

The SGI Story rides a happy trail.The Spotsylvania County GreenwaysInitiative became a 501(c )3 non-profit in2009 to the anticipation of quality-of-life,nature-loving Spotsylvanians and theirFredericksburg area neighbors. Itsmission and vision:

Mission: The SpotsylvaniaGreenways Initiative preserves and createsgreenways in Spotsylvania County toconnect natural and culturally significantareas to provide recreation opportunitiesthat inspire respect and responsibility forgreen space everywhere.Vision: The SGI envisions a future wheneveryone is within walking distance of apath or park to connect county residentsto nature, to recreation, to each other,and, through non-motorized trails, toother communities throughout theregion.

SGI’s storyline, “Building Trails –Building Connections,” explains SGI Chair,Chris Folger, “takes both aspects of thistheme very seriously, having put togethera rich, extensive program to both build anetwork of 100-miles of walking/ bikingtrails in Spotsylvania County and reachout to the community to engage people inour incredible and beautiful natural,historic resources. A ProgrammaticAgreement with the Corps of Engineersestablishes those valuable resources to beprotected on the Central Rail corridor.

“We identified the best locationsto connect to the National Parks—whichfacilitates the implementation of theCounty Trailways Plan and our mission toconnect to Spotsy’s historic and naturalresources.”

The Top Five priority trailwaysprojects were identified as the Ni River’s

first segment “Salamander Loop,” whichopened in June 2010 at the Staffordlocation of the YMCA; the second segmentopened that same month in 2012; and,the current step in the Ni River corridor isto establish easements with propertyowners between the trail and the YMCA;third in the top five, Massaponax Creek, ismaking necessary additions of bridges andeasements to establish a beautifulwalking/biking trail between Breckinridgeand Piedmont; number four, the VirginiaCentral Rail (VCR) Trail, is “an incredibleopportunity to connect Jackson Trails East& West through a natural trail connectingto the historic battlefields,” Folger says;and, #5 Deep Run is better thanincredible: Folger calls it “an amazingopportunity to connect historic Civil Warsites on the Rappahannock River with theFredericksburg Battlefield via a walkingand biking trail.” The Lake AnnaConnector will provide the equestriancommunity a connection between theequestrian facilities of Lake Anna StatePark and the northern parts of the Countyand into Orange County.

Mr. Folger will fill your cup withmore on this much-to-be-proud-ofamenity when he guests on Ted Schubel’sCommunity Link on October 27 at 8 a.m.on NewsTalk 1230 WFVA andNewsTalk1230.net

Community Link, hosted by Ted Schubel,broadcasts on WFVA and at

newstalk1230.net every Sunday at 8a.m. in partnership with this magazine,

for which Sara Mattingly intrepidlyreports.


C O M M U N I T Y L I N KCourtesy of WFVA and Front Porch

Spotsylvania Co. greenways initiative

By Sara Mattingly

Advanced Dental Careof Fredericksburg

540-891-9911

Because we care for you!10524 Spotsylvania Ave. Ste #104 Fredericksburg, VA

$79New Patient Special

Includes Exam, X-Rays and Cleaning

With this Coupon only for non-insuredpatients. Not valid with other offers orprior services. Offer Expires 11/1/13

A $239.00 Value

$650 Per Arch Full

AcrylicDentureor Partial


A $1100.00 Value

CELEBRATE!fcca: 50 years and beyond

by paula rose

Hours By Appointment

371-88499

770099 CCaarroolliinnee SSttrreeeett

www.prosegallery.com

PP.. RRoossee GGaalllleerryyTHE POETRY MANTHE POETRY MAN- BY FRANK FRATOE

What NeverWhat NeverBecomes OldBecomes Old

Here where I trek along groves

and begin observing my 73rd year,there’s a way to enjoy our worldthat will keep the soul of youth.

two ducks glide across a pondone appearing to lead the other,both tread wakes v-angled behinduntil the forerunner swims back,to join the second at her sideas twin waves interlink head on.

Neither is adrift upon the waterlike Yeat’s swans at Coole Park,nor do they fly away above mewheeling their wings in the sky,because a heart draws them nearmaking it impossible to grow old.

Frank Fratoe lives and writes in the city

In October, 1963 the “Gallery ofModern Art” opened at the SilversmithHouse on Sophia Street. The gallery was

modeled on the “20th CenturyGallery” in Williamsburg. Bothgalleries were purposed to bring artawareness and museum quality artto their respective communities.

Now known as the FredericksburgCenter of the Creative Arts (apartner of the Virginia Museum ofFine Arts), or FCCA, the gallery hasprogressed and developed throughthe direction of its many volunteers.Many things have changed but thespirit of volunteerism has prevailedfor 50 years.

This ever changing group ofvolunteers has brought art, music,poetry, classes for children andadults and speakers to the little 18thcentury building by the river at 813Sophia Street. Concurrently, thesame volunteers have raised fundsto maintain and restore what is oneof the most charming buildings inthe city.

These volunteers, past andpresent, know the importance ofnurturing the sensitivity of what iscreative in all of us. Art makes us aware ofthe world around us, aware of each otherand helps us to behave humanely. Theirstimulus and input have affected theartists, students and townspeople and, as aresult, Fredericksburg is a moreinteresting place to live in and to visit.

The growth of art venues andactivities in the last 20 years has added tothe economic health and vibrancy of ourdowntown and the surrounding area. Thesteady presence of the FCCA for 50 yearshas been a beacon of encouragement.

On November 2, 2013, the FCCAwill celebrate “A 50th Anniversary Salon”at the Fredericksburg Country Club. Thisticketed event will include entertainment,good food and drink and art from memberartists. We will raise our glasses and toast

all the volunteers - past, present andfuture - who continue to dedicate theirtime and energy to make ART an integralpart of our community.

For ticket information for “50Anniversary Salon” on Saturday,November 2, 2013 and for other specialevents please visit our websitewww.fccava.org or call (540) 373-5646.

Paula Rose, a painter, has been avibrant part of downtown’s culture and

arts community for decades.

The SGI Story rides a happy trail.The Spotsylvania County GreenwaysInitiative became a 501(c )3 non-profit in2009 to the anticipation of quality-of-life,nature-loving Spotsylvanians and theirFredericksburg area neighbors. Itsmission and vision:

Mission: The SpotsylvaniaGreenways Initiative preserves and createsgreenways in Spotsylvania County toconnect natural and culturally significantareas to provide recreation opportunitiesthat inspire respect and responsibility forgreen space everywhere.Vision: The SGI envisions a future wheneveryone is within walking distance of apath or park to connect county residentsto nature, to recreation, to each other,and, through non-motorized trails, toother communities throughout theregion.

SGI’s storyline, “Building Trails –Building Connections,” explains SGI Chair,Chris Folger, “takes both aspects of thistheme very seriously, having put togethera rich, extensive program to both build anetwork of 100-miles of walking/ bikingtrails in Spotsylvania County and reachout to the community to engage people inour incredible and beautiful natural,historic resources. A ProgrammaticAgreement with the Corps of Engineersestablishes those valuable resources to beprotected on the Central Rail corridor.

“We identified the best locationsto connect to the National Parks—whichfacilitates the implementation of theCounty Trailways Plan and our mission toconnect to Spotsy’s historic and naturalresources.”

The Top Five priority trailwaysprojects were identified as the Ni River’s

first segment “Salamander Loop,” whichopened in June 2010 at the Staffordlocation of the YMCA; the second segmentopened that same month in 2012; and,the current step in the Ni River corridor isto establish easements with propertyowners between the trail and the YMCA;third in the top five, Massaponax Creek, ismaking necessary additions of bridges andeasements to establish a beautifulwalking/biking trail between Breckinridgeand Piedmont; number four, the VirginiaCentral Rail (VCR) Trail, is “an incredibleopportunity to connect Jackson Trails East& West through a natural trail connectingto the historic battlefields,” Folger says;and, #5 Deep Run is better thanincredible: Folger calls it “an amazingopportunity to connect historic Civil Warsites on the Rappahannock River with theFredericksburg Battlefield via a walkingand biking trail.” The Lake AnnaConnector will provide the equestriancommunity a connection between theequestrian facilities of Lake Anna StatePark and the northern parts of the Countyand into Orange County.

Mr. Folger will fill your cup withmore on this much-to-be-proud-ofamenity when he guests on Ted Schubel’sCommunity Link on October 27 at 8 a.m.on NewsTalk 1230 WFVA andNewsTalk1230.net

Community Link, hosted by Ted Schubel,broadcasts on WFVA and at

newstalk1230.net every Sunday at 8a.m. in partnership with this magazine,

for which Sara Mattingly intrepidlyreports.


C O M M U N I T Y L I N KCourtesy of WFVA and Front Porch

Spotsylvania Co. greenways initiative

By Sara Mattingly

Advanced Dental Careof Fredericksburg

540-891-9911

Because we care for you!10524 Spotsylvania Ave. Ste #104 Fredericksburg, VA

$79New Patient Special

Includes Exam, X-Rays and Cleaning


A $239.00 Value

$650 Per Arch Full

AcrylicDentureor Partial


A $1100.00 Value

CELEBRATE!fcca: 50 years and beyond

by paula rose

Hours By Appointment

371-88499

770099 CCaarroolliinnee SSttrreeeett

www.prosegallery.com

PP.. RRoossee GGaalllleerryyTHE POETRY MANTHE POETRY MAN- BY FRANK FRATOE

What NeverWhat NeverBecomes OldBecomes Old

Here where I trek along groves

and begin observing my 73rd year,there’s a way to enjoy our worldthat will keep the soul of youth.

two ducks glide across a pondone appearing to lead the other,both tread wakes v-angled behinduntil the forerunner swims back,to join the second at her sideas twin waves interlink head on.

Neither is adrift upon the waterlike Yeat’s swans at Coole Park,nor do they fly away above mewheeling their wings in the sky,because a heart draws them nearmaking it impossible to grow old.

Frank Fratoe lives and writes in the city

September traditionally kicks offthe fall gala season, many of which aredesigned to benefit worthwhileorganizations within our community. Onesuch gala will celebrate and fundFredericksburg’s disAbility ResourceCenter, a local outreach in its 20th year ofoperation. Funded primarily throughpersonal donations, grants, and some cityand county government contributions,dRC offers four primary services and avariety of outreach programs to citizensin Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania,King George, and Caroline. They alsoprovide deaf and hard of hearing servicesto people in Orange, Culpepper, Madison,and throughout the Northern Neck. Asprogram manager /deputy director KimLett (above) puts it, “It’s hard to describeexactly what we do, because we do such awide variety of things for people withdisabilities in our community.”

Lett says dRC is a center forindependent living, one of only 16 in thestate of Virginia. It provides services ininformation and referral, advocacy, peercounseling, and independent living skills.Lett explains, “People ask us for help witha wide range of things, and we assist themin finding the resources that they need.We recently advocated for a timedcrossing signal at the intersection of FallHill Avenue and Route 1, and we workedtoward making the bridge a lot safer to

cross because it was uneven for people inwheelchairs. We travel between D.C. andRichmond to talk to legislators about bills.Our peer counselors are people withdisabilities that talk with others facingsimilar challenges and help them writeindependent living goals; and theindependent living skills that we teachallow people to live more autonomously.Most importantly, these four servicesallow people with disabilities remain a vitalpart of our community.”

In addition, Fredericksburg dRCoffers services that are specific to ourlocal community. Lett describes, “We havea deaf and hard of hearing departmentthat helps people with assistive technologyand provides sign language classes. Wehave a youth services department thatteaches parents how to analyze andnegotiate Individual Education Plans(IEPs), and that also works with kids withdisabilities who are ready to transitioninto college or the workforce after highschool. The Equipment Connection is anoutreach that we run where people donateassistive equipment that is cleaned andrefurbished, and then we gift it back outto people in the community. We lookedat the needs of our citizens with autismand now provide a meeting place for theFredericksburg Region Autism ActionGroup (FRAAG), in association withCommonwealth Autism Services. We alsoassist people in applying for Medicaidwaivers, allowing them to remain an activepart of the community.”

The disAbility Resource Center’s

20th Anniversary Masquerade Gala will beheld at the Fredericksburg Country Clubbetween 7 pm and 9 pm on Saturday,September 14, 2013. Masks will beprovided, or you may wear your own.There will be food, music, dancing, and anauction that includes the UMW RugbyTeam. Tickets are $50.00 and areavailable by calling dRC at 540-373-2559.

A.E. Bayne is a teacher and writer whohas lived and worked in Fredericksburg

for fifteen years.


You know that early morning –really early, 4:00 or 5:00 am – sound? Acar screeches to a semi-stop in front ofyour house and then you hear thesatisfying thump of the morning paperhitting your driveway? A good solidpercussive “Whump.”. Well, let’s hope yousavored this morning’s driveway thumpbecause that’s the last one (only a slightexaggeration) you’re going to hear. Ever.

The sound of your morningpaper hitting the pavement is anothersound destined for the scrapheap ofSounds Never To Be Heard Again. Anotherold-fashioned service – and what else is anewspaper but a humble, prosaic attemptto keep the locals informed - gone belly-up, prey to the digital Juggernaut.

The delivery of your news hasmoved from the cozy and familiar threedimensions of physical space (the loci ofcars, and driveways, and newspapers) to

the everywhere and nowhere ofthe cyber-verse. The storiesmight still be local, but they willbe sent to you through theotherworldly ether. If you’vebeen on this planet for a while,recollect some of the othersounds you knew but will nolonger hear (outside ofmemory). For example, thatsafe-cracking, prize-wheel tick ofthose ancient rotary phonesbeing dialed (weightycontraptions of funereal blackBakelite making every call asomber and formal event). Howlong it took to call someone,especially a phone number with lots of 8’sand 9’s – your pointer finger suspended inagitated readiness, waiting for the dial tostop its appallingly-slow counterclockwisespin.

Now we silently thumbpunchphone numbers on candy bar-sizedmetallic rectangles that can betransported and used anywhere. Thewhole world’s become one giant phonebooth. Or how about this sound, nowconsigned to history: the clack-clack-clack-ping of the typewriter? Or the whooshingsibilance of the phonograph needle onthose turntables of yesteryear thatcontinued its piezoelectric whisper evenafter the LP had finished playing and thelistener was just too indolent – egads, noremote controls - to lift the trapped andflailing arm from the record. So manysounds, relegated to auditory nostalgia.

Somehow, though, thedisappearance of that morning newspaperthump is tougher to deal with. Who couldhave predicted the replacement ofsomething so stolidly low tech asthis? Sure, phones, typewriters, andphonographs – all techno-gadgets enjoyingrelatively short tenures as things “state ofthe art” – were destined to be overtakenby newer, shiner, faster, enhancedtechnologies. But the daily paper? C’mon!We expected to continue receiving it untilthe day the Final Trump was sounded.(Headline: WORLD SAYS GOODBYE!! SeeA6 for Last Day details.) And yet, it’s gonenow. The choreography of Sundaymorning, in particular, is foreveraltered. Gone, that frigid, barefoot dashto the end of the driveway. Gone, the wetdog shake of your plastic-encased, rainyday paper. Gone, the slick viscera spill of

all those colorful Sunday inserts coveringthe breakfast table, pleading to consumerswith primary color passion. Gone, thesolemn divvying up of the differentsections, almost always a patriarchalduty: comics for the kids, sports for Dad,viscera for Mom. Speaking of Dad, he’dgather up the entire paper at some pointin the afternoon and disappear into thebowels of the house for a long, solitaryread, working his way even through theClassifieds. Sunday morning loses itswhole timeless architecture, its carefullyscripted dynamic.

And now? One more reason notto go outside. One less opportunity tosuck in some good fresh air, wave to thedark figure – presumably your neighbor -in the next driveway, shoosh the otherneighbor’s cat off your lawn as he skulksabout conducting his pre-dawninspections. And what replaces all thisearly-morning drama? Just a stiff-leggedstagger to the computer and theimpatient wait for it to come on: we fidgetand fume when we’re forced to endure a0.3 second wait for our system to boot up;we’ve all become NASA engineers in ourtime sensitivities, with impatiencethresholds calibrated to the nanosecond.

Is this really how we want to getour news? USA Today, sure, but notTomorrow. We’re gone Post-Post. All thosevarious Dispatches? Dispatched. Adieu,old friend. The Times, they are an-endin’… This just in: Martians havelanded in Grover’s Mill, New Jersey.

Rob Huffman frequently contributes to Porch Light.

For Sale Now at

Amazon.com

Author: J Robert Du BoisEdited by Rob Grogan

My Own Paththe power of truth

By c. ruth cassellWithin each day, I come to

countless crossroads when I must choosewhether to respond authentically: Somecritical. “Mommy, why did you pick me uplate?” Others mundane. “What time didyou wake up this morning, honey?”

I sometimes struggle to say whatrepresents my actual thoughts orexperience. “Ruth, we talked about whatto include in the proposal. Are yougetting mixed messages from me?”

In two out of these threeinstances, I kept my response in thecontext of what I knew to be true. Tellingmy son I got caught up in work, notleaving until I knew I’d be late, wasn’teasy. It would be simpler to say I didn’tmean to or I couldn’t help it. Sharingwith him how my day went allowed me toshow him a part of me he otherwisewouldn’t see.

My VP wondered if she sentmixed messages. I briefly consideredtaking the blame and telling her I must’vemisunderstood. Instead, I let her knowthere was disconnect between what shesaid in our first meeting and thecommittee presentation we werepreparing to give. She later apologized forflustering me before a big meeting, and Iasked if we could revisit the message wewere trying to convey.

The temptation exists to maskwhat I think, or my personal experience, infavor of responding auspiciously orcreating a false impression. Each choice todisguise myself for another’s benefitdecreases my credibility and confidenceand degrades what could otherwise be ameaningful exchange.

Wanting to make myself seemhyper productive, I told my boyfriend Iwoke up at my usual time. I didn’t let himknow I slept in until I absolutely had towake up for work, neglecting to finish myreading. I missed the opportunity to dowhat I request of him—to be honest aboutthe small things so we can build trustabout the big things. I opted to reinforce

an image of myself as an early riser and anoverachiever, rather than reveal a softerand more vulnerable side.

To avoid morphing myself to suit thelikes and demands of others, I must syncwhat I think, what I say and what I do.

In this instance, I have options—decide being hyper productive isn’timportant (what I think), willingly admitmy capability to procrastinate (what I say)or wake up early (what I do).

These examples may be minor, but theunderlying tendency is significant. I mustapproach these crossroads with integrity,willing to unveil my true thoughts andexperiences, unconcerned aboutreinforcing images or creating ideals.

Through first-hand experience, Irealize some people act out entire livesincongruent with what they think and say.Without succumbing to fear of beingfooled by the mask someone wears, Ichoose to pay particular attention to myown responses. Sensitive to the power oftruth, I trust my intention will act tounveil the authenticity of others.

Ruth Cassell, in the spirit of sharingauthentically, must tell you she fell off

the sugar wagon terribly since herAugust column. Living in Roanoke, she’s

getting ready to celebrate Halloweenwith her now six-year old son, who

always keeps her honest, with no candy(but perhaps donning a mask just forthe occasion.) Check out her blog at

www.attentionanonymous.wordpress.com

810 Caroline Street(540) 371-5684

Give a Child Something to Think About

Books, Games, Amusing Novelties

M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm

P o r c h L i g h tStories that shine a light on life

postscript

By rob huffman

Serving Up Local “Good” News

Since 1997


Old Town’sGreatest Tour35 Monuments, Markers, &

AttractionsAND the

Fredericksburg Battlefields

Weddings ReunionsShuttles Parties

Group Outings

540-898-0737Fredericksburgtrolley.com

20 Years Strong:Fxbg’s disAbility Resource Center

By A.E. Bayne

September traditionally kicks offthe fall gala season, many of which aredesigned to benefit worthwhileorganizations within our community. Onesuch gala will celebrate and fundFredericksburg’s disAbility ResourceCenter, a local outreach in its 20th year ofoperation. Funded primarily throughpersonal donations, grants, and some cityand county government contributions,dRC offers four primary services and avariety of outreach programs to citizensin Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania,King George, and Caroline. They alsoprovide deaf and hard of hearing servicesto people in Orange, Culpepper, Madison,and throughout the Northern Neck. Asprogram manager /deputy director KimLett (above) puts it, “It’s hard to describeexactly what we do, because we do such awide variety of things for people withdisabilities in our community.”

Lett says dRC is a center forindependent living, one of only 16 in thestate of Virginia. It provides services ininformation and referral, advocacy, peercounseling, and independent living skills.Lett explains, “People ask us for help witha wide range of things, and we assist themin finding the resources that they need.We recently advocated for a timedcrossing signal at the intersection of FallHill Avenue and Route 1, and we workedtoward making the bridge a lot safer to

cross because it was uneven for people inwheelchairs. We travel between D.C. andRichmond to talk to legislators about bills.Our peer counselors are people withdisabilities that talk with others facingsimilar challenges and help them writeindependent living goals; and theindependent living skills that we teachallow people to live more autonomously.Most importantly, these four servicesallow people with disabilities remain a vitalpart of our community.”

In addition, Fredericksburg dRCoffers services that are specific to ourlocal community. Lett describes, “We havea deaf and hard of hearing departmentthat helps people with assistive technologyand provides sign language classes. Wehave a youth services department thatteaches parents how to analyze andnegotiate Individual Education Plans(IEPs), and that also works with kids withdisabilities who are ready to transitioninto college or the workforce after highschool. The Equipment Connection is anoutreach that we run where people donateassistive equipment that is cleaned andrefurbished, and then we gift it back outto people in the community. We lookedat the needs of our citizens with autismand now provide a meeting place for theFredericksburg Region Autism ActionGroup (FRAAG), in association withCommonwealth Autism Services. We alsoassist people in applying for Medicaidwaivers, allowing them to remain an activepart of the community.”

The disAbility Resource Center’s

20th Anniversary Masquerade Gala will beheld at the Fredericksburg Country Clubbetween 7 pm and 9 pm on Saturday,September 14, 2013. Masks will beprovided, or you may wear your own.There will be food, music, dancing, and anauction that includes the UMW RugbyTeam. Tickets are $50.00 and areavailable by calling dRC at 540-373-2559.

A.E. Bayne is a teacher and writer whohas lived and worked in Fredericksburg

for fifteen years.


You know that early morning –really early, 4:00 or 5:00 am – sound? Acar screeches to a semi-stop in front ofyour house and then you hear thesatisfying thump of the morning paperhitting your driveway? A good solidpercussive “Whump.”. Well, let’s hope yousavored this morning’s driveway thumpbecause that’s the last one (only a slightexaggeration) you’re going to hear. Ever.

The sound of your morningpaper hitting the pavement is anothersound destined for the scrapheap ofSounds Never To Be Heard Again. Anotherold-fashioned service – and what else is anewspaper but a humble, prosaic attemptto keep the locals informed - gone belly-up, prey to the digital Juggernaut.

The delivery of your news hasmoved from the cozy and familiar threedimensions of physical space (the loci ofcars, and driveways, and newspapers) to

the everywhere and nowhere ofthe cyber-verse. The storiesmight still be local, but they willbe sent to you through theotherworldly ether. If you’vebeen on this planet for a while,recollect some of the othersounds you knew but will nolonger hear (outside ofmemory). For example, thatsafe-cracking, prize-wheel tick ofthose ancient rotary phonesbeing dialed (weightycontraptions of funereal blackBakelite making every call asomber and formal event). Howlong it took to call someone,especially a phone number with lots of 8’sand 9’s – your pointer finger suspended inagitated readiness, waiting for the dial tostop its appallingly-slow counterclockwisespin.

Now we silently thumbpunchphone numbers on candy bar-sizedmetallic rectangles that can betransported and used anywhere. Thewhole world’s become one giant phonebooth. Or how about this sound, nowconsigned to history: the clack-clack-clack-ping of the typewriter? Or the whooshingsibilance of the phonograph needle onthose turntables of yesteryear thatcontinued its piezoelectric whisper evenafter the LP had finished playing and thelistener was just too indolent – egads, noremote controls - to lift the trapped andflailing arm from the record. So manysounds, relegated to auditory nostalgia.

Somehow, though, thedisappearance of that morning newspaperthump is tougher to deal with. Who couldhave predicted the replacement ofsomething so stolidly low tech asthis? Sure, phones, typewriters, andphonographs – all techno-gadgets enjoyingrelatively short tenures as things “state ofthe art” – were destined to be overtakenby newer, shiner, faster, enhancedtechnologies. But the daily paper? C’mon!We expected to continue receiving it untilthe day the Final Trump was sounded.(Headline: WORLD SAYS GOODBYE!! SeeA6 for Last Day details.) And yet, it’s gonenow. The choreography of Sundaymorning, in particular, is foreveraltered. Gone, that frigid, barefoot dashto the end of the driveway. Gone, the wetdog shake of your plastic-encased, rainyday paper. Gone, the slick viscera spill of

all those colorful Sunday inserts coveringthe breakfast table, pleading to consumerswith primary color passion. Gone, thesolemn divvying up of the differentsections, almost always a patriarchalduty: comics for the kids, sports for Dad,viscera for Mom. Speaking of Dad, he’dgather up the entire paper at some pointin the afternoon and disappear into thebowels of the house for a long, solitaryread, working his way even through theClassifieds. Sunday morning loses itswhole timeless architecture, its carefullyscripted dynamic.

And now? One more reason notto go outside. One less opportunity tosuck in some good fresh air, wave to thedark figure – presumably your neighbor -in the next driveway, shoosh the otherneighbor’s cat off your lawn as he skulksabout conducting his pre-dawninspections. And what replaces all thisearly-morning drama? Just a stiff-leggedstagger to the computer and theimpatient wait for it to come on: we fidgetand fume when we’re forced to endure a0.3 second wait for our system to boot up;we’ve all become NASA engineers in ourtime sensitivities, with impatiencethresholds calibrated to the nanosecond.

Is this really how we want to getour news? USA Today, sure, but notTomorrow. We’re gone Post-Post. All thosevarious Dispatches? Dispatched. Adieu,old friend. The Times, they are an-endin’… This just in: Martians havelanded in Grover’s Mill, New Jersey.

Rob Huffman frequently contributes to Porch Light.

For Sale Now at

Amazon.com

Author: J Robert Du BoisEdited by Rob Grogan

My Own Paththe power of truth

By c. ruth cassellWithin each day, I come to

countless crossroads when I must choosewhether to respond authentically: Somecritical. “Mommy, why did you pick me uplate?” Others mundane. “What time didyou wake up this morning, honey?”

I sometimes struggle to say whatrepresents my actual thoughts orexperience. “Ruth, we talked about whatto include in the proposal. Are yougetting mixed messages from me?”

In two out of these threeinstances, I kept my response in thecontext of what I knew to be true. Tellingmy son I got caught up in work, notleaving until I knew I’d be late, wasn’teasy. It would be simpler to say I didn’tmean to or I couldn’t help it. Sharingwith him how my day went allowed me toshow him a part of me he otherwisewouldn’t see.

My VP wondered if she sentmixed messages. I briefly consideredtaking the blame and telling her I must’vemisunderstood. Instead, I let her knowthere was disconnect between what shesaid in our first meeting and thecommittee presentation we werepreparing to give. She later apologized forflustering me before a big meeting, and Iasked if we could revisit the message wewere trying to convey.

The temptation exists to maskwhat I think, or my personal experience, infavor of responding auspiciously orcreating a false impression. Each choice todisguise myself for another’s benefitdecreases my credibility and confidenceand degrades what could otherwise be ameaningful exchange.

Wanting to make myself seemhyper productive, I told my boyfriend Iwoke up at my usual time. I didn’t let himknow I slept in until I absolutely had towake up for work, neglecting to finish myreading. I missed the opportunity to dowhat I request of him—to be honest aboutthe small things so we can build trustabout the big things. I opted to reinforce

an image of myself as an early riser and anoverachiever, rather than reveal a softerand more vulnerable side.

To avoid morphing myself to suit thelikes and demands of others, I must syncwhat I think, what I say and what I do.

In this instance, I have options—decide being hyper productive isn’timportant (what I think), willingly admitmy capability to procrastinate (what I say)or wake up early (what I do).

These examples may be minor, but theunderlying tendency is significant. I mustapproach these crossroads with integrity,willing to unveil my true thoughts andexperiences, unconcerned aboutreinforcing images or creating ideals.

Through first-hand experience, Irealize some people act out entire livesincongruent with what they think and say.Without succumbing to fear of beingfooled by the mask someone wears, Ichoose to pay particular attention to myown responses. Sensitive to the power oftruth, I trust my intention will act tounveil the authenticity of others.

Ruth Cassell, in the spirit of sharingauthentically, must tell you she fell off

the sugar wagon terribly since herAugust column. Living in Roanoke, she’s

getting ready to celebrate Halloweenwith her now six-year old son, who

always keeps her honest, with no candy(but perhaps donning a mask just forthe occasion.) Check out her blog at

www.attentionanonymous.wordpress.com

810 Caroline Street(540) 371-5684

Give a Child Something to Think About

Books, Games, Amusing Novelties

M-Sat. 10am-6pm; Sun. 1pm-4pm

P o r c h L i g h tStories that shine a light on life

postscript

By rob huffman

Serving Up Local “Good” News

Since 1997


Old Town’sGreatest Tour35 Monuments, Markers, &

AttractionsAND the

Fredericksburg Battlefields

Weddings ReunionsShuttles Parties

Group Outings

540-898-0737Fredericksburgtrolley.com

20 Years Strong:Fxbg’s disAbility Resource Center

By A.E. Bayne


ARCHER DI PEPPECAGA

CERTIFIED APPRAISER

Insurance Riders Estate SettlementsDivorce Cases Damage Claims

Oral or Written AppraisalsSPECIALIZING IN ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

Certified AppraiserCertified Appraiser’s Guild of America

[email protected] (540) 373-9636

An Easier and Better WayThreading My Way through Divorce

By Rob FergussonWills and Trusts

Provide for IncapacityTrusts for Minor Children

Wealth Preservation TrustsAvoid Probate

AhearnEstateLaw.com 540/371-9890

As I answered the door, I dreadedwhat information lay on the other side.What I feared the most was uttered by myparents as I swung it open. “Yourbrother,” they quietly said, “is gone. Hetook his own life.” From that day forwardour lives were shaped by questions, guilt,anger, and a mix of emotions that timehas dulled, but not removed. Since thatnight twelve years ago, we have learned tocelebrate and memorialize his life, not hismanner of death. However it is impossibleto forget, and the way he died is a realityfor the families of over 38,000 suicidevictims a year (2010 statistic).

Sadly, every minute of every day,someone attempts to take their own life,and every 16 minutes someone dies ofsuicide. It is a problem that affects allages, genders, and ethnicities, yet is apreventable cause of death. The AmericanFoundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)is one organization aimed at education,advocacy, and helping families cope withthis type of loss, as a way to prevent moresuicides.

I found this organization a fewyears after my brother’s death, and beganwalking for him in the annual Spotsylvania

Out of the Darkness Walk. I was lost atthe time, and wanted to honor him insome way, while hopefully preventingothers from going through the sameagony that my family had endured. Ithelped me find my way through myemotions, and at the same time I washelping a great cause. I realized that I wasnot alone in what my family had gonethrough, far from it, and every year I lookforward to a healing day of walking on hisbehalf.

Funds from the event have beenused in our area to help educate peopleabout suicide, and most recently aprogram in Spotsylvania County Schools,named “So Sad,” has been implemented inorder to educate high-schoolers aboutdepression and other types of mentalillness.

This year’s walk will be held atSpotsylvania Courthouse Commons on

October 19th at 10 am, with registrationstarting at 9 am. A memory wall will be anew addition this year, and will help tocelebrate the lives of those lost, ratherthan the way that they died. Walkers areasked to bring photos, notes, and otheritems to help remember their loved ones.If you would like to join this worthy cause,go to asfg.outofthedarkness.org to findout more. You can even gather a teamtogether to walk in honor of someone orjust to support the cause.

I promise that it will be amorning well spent. I hope to see youthere!

While Christina Ferber lives with thepersonal loss of her brother’s suicide,

she helps shed the light needed to dealwith this mental health issue.

Please support this worthy walk. Front Porch is.

From Out of the DarknessInto the Lighta walk for a worthy cause

By christina ferber

FREDERICKSBURGCOLLABORATIVE

Every Child Deserves A Family

Learn about our adoption opportunitiesin Russia, China and Guatemala

301-587-4400 Cradle of Hope Adoption Center

A dozen years ago I faced thescary, dark pit of divorce. What got methrough that difficult time arrived in avery odd way. A stranger I called on abusiness matter inexplicably launched intotalking about a divorce outreach programat a church that was helping himtremendously. I found the program andjoined. It was impressive. Here was ahouse of worship that did not encourageor like divorce, but cared deeply abouthelping people get through the grief oflosing a major relationship – regardless oftheir denomination or even their religion.Talking with those fellow sufferers got methrough that tough time and I’ve spentthe years since then volunteering in thatprogram, giving back what I was given.

Ironically, my separation anddivorce came at the same time I hadsigned up for a course of study that wouldend with my certification as a divorcefinancial expert. Those studies, veryunwisely, got put on hold as I tried to dealwith the emotions and practicalities ofgetting through my divorce. In hindsight,I paid quite a price for delaying thosestudies – we could have handled every partof our divorce so much better for our kids,and us, had I just known how.

It’s been a decade now since Icompleted those studies and beganworking as a divorce financial expert – theonly financial expert in theCommonwealth dedicated solely to divorcework, which is still a fairly new field. Thesurprising part is that this doesn’t feel likea job, it feels like a mission of givingpeople what I missed out on - knowing howto divorce well.

Aiding my mission is the rise of anew approach to divorce – thecollaborative approach, which began inthis area just as I was completing mystudies. It’s characterized by two greatstrengths. It avoids the destructiveness sooften found in the traditional adversarialapproach to divorce. It also recognizesthe need for advice from experts in eacharea of a divorce. Yes, there are stillattorneys for advising on legal rights;there is also a coach that helps the coupleavoid wasting time and money pushingeach other’s emotional buttons; there is a

child specialist advising on where eachchild is emotionally and what thatindividual child needs; and there is thatdivorce financial expert for the moneyissues.

Most of my cases are in thegreater Fredericksburg area, where I workwith a team of experienced, localcollaborative professionals, doing the kindof caring job with divorce that I’ve always

pictured doing. They’re found atfredericksburgcollaborative.com

It’s exciting to see thatmediation, an older, more establishedapproach to divorce, is showing signs oflearning from the success of thecollaborative approach by beginning tobring divorce financial experts into thosecases so divorcing couples will have trulyexpert help in settling their financialissues.

While this mission of helpingpeople through a kinder, gentler divorceremains important to me, I’ve had a

growing interest for several years indelving deeply into the research on thepsychology of money in relationships, andhow couples could be helped to avoidhaving money issues sabotage theirrelationships. Frankly, I’d like nothingbetter than the ideal of one day seeing allmarriages strong and healthy, and all of usdivorce professionals out of business.

Meanwhile, for me all the pain ofmy divorce seems to have gone full circle,turning into a sense of joyful purpose, ofhelping others.

Rob Fergusson is a certified divorcefinancial expert working in all types ofdivorce cases - litigated, adversarial,

mediated and collaborative; andworking with individuals and couples

from his office in Richmond, with a largepercentage of cases in the Fxbg area.

fromdivorcetoprosperity.com/


ARCHER DI PEPPECAGA

CERTIFIED APPRAISER

Insurance Riders Estate SettlementsDivorce Cases Damage Claims

Oral or Written AppraisalsSPECIALIZING IN ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

Certified AppraiserCertified Appraiser’s Guild of America

[email protected] (540) 373-9636

An Easier and Better WayThreading My Way through Divorce

By Rob FergussonWills and Trusts

Provide for IncapacityTrusts for Minor Children

Wealth Preservation TrustsAvoid Probate

AhearnEstateLaw.com 540/371-9890

As I answered the door, I dreadedwhat information lay on the other side.What I feared the most was uttered by myparents as I swung it open. “Yourbrother,” they quietly said, “is gone. Hetook his own life.” From that day forwardour lives were shaped by questions, guilt,anger, and a mix of emotions that timehas dulled, but not removed. Since thatnight twelve years ago, we have learned tocelebrate and memorialize his life, not hismanner of death. However it is impossibleto forget, and the way he died is a realityfor the families of over 38,000 suicidevictims a year (2010 statistic).

Sadly, every minute of every day,someone attempts to take their own life,and every 16 minutes someone dies ofsuicide. It is a problem that affects allages, genders, and ethnicities, yet is apreventable cause of death. The AmericanFoundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)is one organization aimed at education,advocacy, and helping families cope withthis type of loss, as a way to prevent moresuicides.

I found this organization a fewyears after my brother’s death, and beganwalking for him in the annual Spotsylvania

Out of the Darkness Walk. I was lost atthe time, and wanted to honor him insome way, while hopefully preventingothers from going through the sameagony that my family had endured. Ithelped me find my way through myemotions, and at the same time I washelping a great cause. I realized that I wasnot alone in what my family had gonethrough, far from it, and every year I lookforward to a healing day of walking on hisbehalf.

Funds from the event have beenused in our area to help educate peopleabout suicide, and most recently aprogram in Spotsylvania County Schools,named “So Sad,” has been implemented inorder to educate high-schoolers aboutdepression and other types of mentalillness.

This year’s walk will be held atSpotsylvania Courthouse Commons on

October 19th at 10 am, with registrationstarting at 9 am. A memory wall will be anew addition this year, and will help tocelebrate the lives of those lost, ratherthan the way that they died. Walkers areasked to bring photos, notes, and otheritems to help remember their loved ones.If you would like to join this worthy cause,go to asfg.outofthedarkness.org to findout more. You can even gather a teamtogether to walk in honor of someone orjust to support the cause.

I promise that it will be amorning well spent. I hope to see youthere!

While Christina Ferber lives with thepersonal loss of her brother’s suicide,

she helps shed the light needed to dealwith this mental health issue.

Please support this worthy walk. Front Porch is.

From Out of the DarknessInto the Lighta walk for a worthy cause

By christina ferber

FREDERICKSBURGCOLLABORATIVE

Every Child Deserves A Family

Learn about our adoption opportunitiesin Russia, China and Guatemala

301-587-4400 Cradle of Hope Adoption Center

A dozen years ago I faced thescary, dark pit of divorce. What got methrough that difficult time arrived in avery odd way. A stranger I called on abusiness matter inexplicably launched intotalking about a divorce outreach programat a church that was helping himtremendously. I found the program andjoined. It was impressive. Here was ahouse of worship that did not encourageor like divorce, but cared deeply abouthelping people get through the grief oflosing a major relationship – regardless oftheir denomination or even their religion.Talking with those fellow sufferers got methrough that tough time and I’ve spentthe years since then volunteering in thatprogram, giving back what I was given.

Ironically, my separation anddivorce came at the same time I hadsigned up for a course of study that wouldend with my certification as a divorcefinancial expert. Those studies, veryunwisely, got put on hold as I tried to dealwith the emotions and practicalities ofgetting through my divorce. In hindsight,I paid quite a price for delaying thosestudies – we could have handled every partof our divorce so much better for our kids,and us, had I just known how.

It’s been a decade now since Icompleted those studies and beganworking as a divorce financial expert – theonly financial expert in theCommonwealth dedicated solely to divorcework, which is still a fairly new field. Thesurprising part is that this doesn’t feel likea job, it feels like a mission of givingpeople what I missed out on - knowing howto divorce well.

Aiding my mission is the rise of anew approach to divorce – thecollaborative approach, which began inthis area just as I was completing mystudies. It’s characterized by two greatstrengths. It avoids the destructiveness sooften found in the traditional adversarialapproach to divorce. It also recognizesthe need for advice from experts in eacharea of a divorce. Yes, there are stillattorneys for advising on legal rights;there is also a coach that helps the coupleavoid wasting time and money pushingeach other’s emotional buttons; there is a

child specialist advising on where eachchild is emotionally and what thatindividual child needs; and there is thatdivorce financial expert for the moneyissues.

Most of my cases are in thegreater Fredericksburg area, where I workwith a team of experienced, localcollaborative professionals, doing the kindof caring job with divorce that I’ve always

pictured doing. They’re found atfredericksburgcollaborative.com

It’s exciting to see thatmediation, an older, more establishedapproach to divorce, is showing signs oflearning from the success of thecollaborative approach by beginning tobring divorce financial experts into thosecases so divorcing couples will have trulyexpert help in settling their financialissues.

While this mission of helpingpeople through a kinder, gentler divorceremains important to me, I’ve had a

growing interest for several years indelving deeply into the research on thepsychology of money in relationships, andhow couples could be helped to avoidhaving money issues sabotage theirrelationships. Frankly, I’d like nothingbetter than the ideal of one day seeing allmarriages strong and healthy, and all of usdivorce professionals out of business.

Meanwhile, for me all the pain ofmy divorce seems to have gone full circle,turning into a sense of joyful purpose, ofhelping others.

Rob Fergusson is a certified divorcefinancial expert working in all types ofdivorce cases - litigated, adversarial,

mediated and collaborative; andworking with individuals and couples

from his office in Richmond, with a largepercentage of cases in the Fxbg area.

fromdivorcetoprosperity.com/

Documents

October 2013 - Front Porch Fredericksburg