Old Town Crier - July 2026

Lots of landmark things happening this month! The U.S.A celebrates its 250th Anniversary on the 4th with celebrations taking place all over the DMV and our fair City celebrates its 277th with its usual fanfare with an evening of food and music culminating with the always stellar fireworks on the 11th!

A bit closer to our hearts are the anniversary celebrations of two of our long-time friends and clients. The Fish Market - one of Old Town’s iconic eateries and the anchor of the 100 block of King – celebrates its 50th year of serving their signature schooners of beer and bowls of clam chowder and Kathy Bradford celebrates her 40th year helping customers choose just the right piece of fine jewelry at another Old Town icon, Kings Jewelry! I won’t say how long I’ve known Kathy but lets just say we are like fine wine!

The years have flown by! Seems like only yesterday that I was behind the bar at the Fish Market in the mid-80’s (the story of how I got that position is a good one for later). In observance of turning 50, they are throwing a bash on the Thursday, the 23rd at 5PM with a throw-back menu, some lively music and a chance for those of you who have been frequenting the place over these many years a chance to get together and tell some stories! I think I’ll get there early!

Summer is upon us and the warm weather has already arrived. The pedestrian mall in Old Town is overflowing with diners and shoppers. The outdoor restaurants are very busy. Step out and do a little alfresco dining at one of Alexandria's fine restaurants. You will find many in this publication!

I get a lot of flak from my office mate about me doing a “recap” of what’s inside these pages, but I just want to give you all a teaser. These are MY Publishers Notes, after all. ��

This month’s issue is full of good articles and stories. Here are some highlights:

• A Bit of History - Sarah Becker remembers 30 years with the Old Town Crier and how she became acquainted with Martha Washington.

• High Notes - Ron Powers writes about Wheatus and "Teenage Dirtbag". Somehow, I miss John Denver.

• The Last Word - Miriam Kramer recommends a "Bag of Books" for your beach trip! She picked some good ones!

• On Stage Old Town - Mark Edelman gives his picks for the month of July. See a play or a musical in July.

• Gallery Beat - Lenny Campello writes about the Information Age and todays artist. Read about Jared Whipple, a car mechanic from Waterbury, Connecticut, who in 2017 received a call from a contractor friend to remove some debris…the story has a very lucrative ending.

• From the Bay – With the help of the “researchers” manning AI, we collected a few events and things for you all to do on the Western Shore this month.

• To the Blue Ridge – Meg Mullery is back with pen/keyboard in hand, as she profiles the little “big” town of The Plains, VA. There is a lot more to these few blocks that meets the eye.

• Road Trip – This month is a little different. Many of you readers can walk to this destination. We take you on a short but very interesting walk to and around Canal Center right here on the waterfront in Old Town.

• Caribbean Connection – Caitlin Sullivan, Caribbean Journal contributor, takes us to the only All-inclusive resort on St. Thomas, USVI - Bolongo Bay Beach Resort. You can expect beachfront rooms and a beautiful crescent shaped beach with all of the amenities. I can tell you from personal experience, they have a great catamaran.

• Dining Out – In the spirit of the approaching Bastille Day, we decided to celebrate early with some galettes, crepes and cider at the newly opened Maison Breizh in the Parker Gray District.

• Let's Get Crafty - Tim Long looks back at the 1976 Bicentennial Celebration and the changes since then. It a pleasant walk back in time to the era in which I grew up. It hits the nail on the head! Tim also gives you his whiskey and cigar recommendation for the month.

• Grapevine - Matt Fitzsimmons talks about the 50th anniversary of Barbourville Vineyards and America's most celebrated patron of wine, Thomas Jefferson.

• Exploring VA Wine - Doug Fabbioli recounts his 45 years in the industry, and how he learned all of the trades that comprise the Winery Owner.

• Beauty & Health - Genevieve LeFranc lets us know about the beauty oils of summer in First Blush, while Nicole Flanagan reminds us what to look out for while exercising in the heat in Fitness and Ryan Unverzagt hits us with another exercise to burn up a few calories from those 4th of July burgers and brats in From the Trainer

• Open Space - Lori Welch Brown gives America some good advice on what to ponder on her 250th anniversary and some suggestions as she moves into the next 250. This article will surely make you smile.

Rounding out the issue, is information about the Saturday evening concerts taking place at the Flight Deck under the Capital Wheel in National Harbor

We hope all of you enjoy this months Old Town Crier. It has been a work of love and a little profit for a little over 38 years. We continue to distribute literally “From the Bay to the Blue Ridge” to share these stories. We all go back and forth in this diverse area, and Old Town Alexandria sits at the center of it all.

Stay safe during the 250th celebrations. Fireworks are beautiful but can cause serious injury. Happy Anniversary America and Happy Birthday to Alexandria!!!

ON THE ROAD WITH OTC

Jeffrey and Joanne Fisher, formerly of National Harbor and now living near Tampa Bay and long time Old Town Crier readers, send greetings from Tangier, Morocco. They were in the middle of an almost 4-week trip through Europe, highlighted by the community band in which Jeffrey plays in Florida having the opportunity to play for D-Day in Normandy.

Pictured here is the ever-adventurous Jeffrey atop his new camel BFF, Larry, whom he named after the infamous dromedary featured in the Geico “Hump Day” ads. That Jeffrey is a clever guy.

If you would like to see your photo in this space, take the OTC with you on your next adventure and take a high resolution photo or photos of you and yours checking us out and send it with information for the caption to office@oldtowncrier.com and put “On the Road” in the subject line.

By Lani Gering

This July we decided to take a different tack from putting “Flags and Fireworks” on the cover. We figure that pretty much every monthly publication in the region will have them front and center. We wanted to be a bit different and keep it a bit more subtle. The rendition of the Washington Monument on the cover is located right here in Old Town Alexandria and has a bit of a connection to the original monument dedicated to our Nation’s first President. You can read about it in this month’s Road Trip column. It is also an example of the many wonderful pieces of public art that adorn the streets and parks in Alexandria. Don’t worry, we are as patriotic as the next guy and have paid tribute to the Nation’s 250th within the following pages. Photo by Lani Gering.

This month’s winner submitted the correct location just 3 days after the June issue hit the streets! This beautiful piece of art is one of Yulia Avgustinovich works and is located on the side of the new Witter Place building being constructed on upper Duke Street. Like the previous mural, it is only viewable when heading east.

Alexandria resident Heidi Murdy, has been watching the mural in progress on her many treks up Duke to take her son to practice. Like our previous winner, she picked up her copy in the Belle View Shopping Center. We have switched gears this month - since finding new murals has become a daunting task - and are featuring one of Alexandria’s pieces of public art. As a hint, it is located in Old Town.

If you are the first person to respond with the correct location, you will receive a $50 gift certificate to one of the best French eateries in the DMV-Bastille Brasserie & Bar

In order to participate and qualify for the gift card, you will have to Like and Follow us:

Facebook @oldtowncrier and Instagram @otcregionalmag

Send a PM with your guess and we will contact the winner each month via PM to arrange for prize delivery.

Just minutes from Washington, D.C. on the Potomac River waterfront, historic Alexandria, Virginia, welcomes families, friends and history-lovers to stay in and explore the city and the region to commemorate America’s 250th birthday. 250th experiences began in 2025 and will culminate this month with major events. Enjoy special events, tours, exhibits, public art, lectures, music, family activities and more. Extend your stay and easily connect to the experiences in D.C. and at the historic George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Alexandria has played a major role in the nation’s story and reflects its progress toward inclusivity. Find historic museums, trace George Washington and the Founding Fathers’ footsteps and follow the stories of Black Americans who shaped the history of Alexandria and the United States. Museums and organizations across Alexandria tell this story yearround.

In addition to honoring the USA on its 250 th, we celebrate Alexandria’s 277th Birthday this month. Hard to believe our fair city is 27 years OLDER than the entire country!

Join us as we commemorate America’s story in Alexandria. For more detailed information on the events listed here, log on to visitalexandria.com

3rd & 4th

Independence Fireworks at Mount Vernon

6 pm – 10 pm

George Washington's Mount Vernon 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway

Enjoy a fun-filled evening with your family that includes dazzling fireworks and patriotic musical performances.

Meet General Washington and hear his special remarks as he commemorates the 250th anniversary of our nation.

Play 18th-century lawn games and experience a variety of demonstrations like dancing and blacksmithing.

Walk through history at a Revolutionary War encampment and immerse yourself in the daily life of soldiers, military officers, and the women and children who traveled with the army. 703-780-2000.

5th

Swedish Marching Band in Concert

11am – 12pm

John Carlyle Square

300 John Carlyle Street

Experience the energy, music, and dance performance of Göta Lejon – The Marching Show Band of Gothenburg, Sweden. Talented young marching performers are coming to town – all the way from Sweden to entertain the whole family! Gothenburg, Sweden and Alexandria’s sister city of Helsingborg, Sweden, located a short distance nearby, share a similar coastal geography, maritime heritage, and distinctly outward-looking, tradeoriented character that defines south western Sweden. Sponsored by the Alexandria Sister Cities Committee.

Events Around Town July 2026

11th

Alexandria & USA Birthday Celebration!

6 pm – 9:45 pm

Oronoco Bay Park

100 Madison Street

Alexandria celebrates its 277th and the USA’s 250th birthday on Saturday the 11th at Oronoco Bay Park on the waterfront. Experience this annual and still one-of-a-kind Alexandria event with an evening filled with live music, food and drink vendors a grand finale fireworks display over the Potomac River. Admission is free.

Schedule Highlights:

6:00 p.m.: Introduction by NBC4's Molette Green and opening musical acts.

7:30 p.m.: Official remarks from Mayor Alyia Gaskins and a poetry reading.

8:00 p.m.: Free birthday cupcakes handed out by the City Council.

8:30 p.m.: Performance by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra.

9:30 p.m.: Grand finale fireworks display.

For the full line-up and any weather-related schedule changes (such as the July 12 rain date), check the official Alexandria & USA Birthday Celebration portal at alexandriava. gov/birthday

11th

Disguised and Determined- Women Who Fought in the Civil War

2 PM - 3 PM

Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden

614 Oronoco Street

There are hundreds of documented cases of women who fought disguised as men during the Civil War. Tracey McIntire and Audrey Scanlan-Teller, PhD will discuss and share documentation of some of the more fascinating women and what motivated them to fight alongside men. Spend an afternoon with McIntire and Scanlan-Teller as the share their research in a house that once used to operate as a Union Army hospital. Tickets are $15 to the general public and free for museum members. Members, please call at (703) 548-1789 to reserve your tickets. It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance as space is limited.

12th

Music to Celebrate America @ 250

3 pm – 4 pm

Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum 201 S. Washington Street

Join the Washington Metropolitan Philharmonic Association for our 36th Annual Summer Sundays Chamber Music Series, LIVE at the Lyceum in Old Town Alexandria, every Sunday at 3 pm through August.

Music to Celebrate America @ 250 features Crystal Lee on flute, Brittany Pemberton on clarinet, and Elizabeth Hill on piano. Program includes works by Price, Muczynski, and Peterson. We look forward to seeing you at the Lyceum! No tickets required! ($25 Suggested Donation) 703-799-8229

18th

Fairfax Resolves Walking Tour

10am – 11pm

Carlyle House 121 N. Fairfax Street

On July 18, 1774, 25 gentlemen from Fairfax County (including Alexandria) signed the Fairfax Resolves which rejected the British Parliament’s claim of supreme authority over the American colonies. Many of these men had ties to Alexandria and some of the buildings related to them are still standing. Join us on this walking tour to learn more about some of the signers and see sites that would have been familiar to them.  Tickets are $20 per person. Registration is required. Please wear comfortable shoes for this 1.5 hour guided tour. The tour will be held rain or shine unless there is severe weather. Note: The tour will meet Christ Church located at 118 N. Washington Street Having trouble registering? Please email us at carlyle@nvrpa.org or call the museum at 703-549-2997

Rooted in Place: Discover Amazing Alexandria- Historic Walking Tour for Kids

Alexandria Visitor Center 221 King Street

History is a fun and exciting topic – especially in such a historic city like Alexandria! In this curated tour designed for youth, attendees will visit important sites around downtown on July 18th and learn why it’s critical to study history.

Tailored for ages 6-12, this tour will appropriately cover tougher themes in Alexandria’s past. Led by a local historian and former K-12 educator, adults and kids alike will enjoy the stories and tales told! Attendees are encouraged to ask questions during the tour. The suggested age of youth attendees is 6-12, but younger or older children are welcome to join. 301-708-1334

Connect with us! Web: VisitAlexandriaVA.com Blog: Blog.VisitAlexandriaVA.com Twitter: Twitter.com/AlexandriaVA

Instagram: Instagram.com/VisitAlexVA Facebook: Facebook.com/VisitAlexandriaVA

OLD TOWN FARMERS MARKET

Tavern Square

100 Block of N. Royal St.

Saturdays, 7 am – 12 Noon Year Round

The Old Town Market is thought to be the one of nation’s oldest continuing markets operating since 1753. It is said that George Washington sent his products from Mount Vernon to be sold here. Today the plaza is a mecca for farmers and artists to sell their wares. The Market is a primary source for meats, dairy, fish, fruits, vegetables and flowers for all those who visit.

DEL RAY FARMERS MARKET

Corner of Mt. Vernon and Oxford Avenues

Saturdays, 8 am to Noon Year Round

This market is strictly a producer grown market.  Lots of fresh vegetables, fruits, fish and salmon, fresh mushrooms, baked goods, hard cider.  Farmers are within a 150 mile radius of Alexandria.  A non-profit is featured each weekend.

LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS

OLD TOWN NORTH FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Montgomery Park 901 North Royal Street

Thursdays, 3 pm – 7 pm Year Round

Alexandria’s favorite dog friendly market! The Old Town North Thursday Market is a growers only market with a focus on produce from small family farms and local artisans. Products sold at the market include fresh fruits and veggies from Virginia’s Northern Neck, Micro Greens from an urban farm, Empanadas, Fresh baked pastries with a European flair and much more.

FOUR MILE RUN FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

4109 Mount Vernon Avenue

Sundays, 9 am – 1 pm Year Round

This market offers fresh, nutritious food to people of all income levels and strives to reflect the diversity of Alexandria’s community. Local artisans display their arts and crafts as well.

Through mid-November

NOW or NEVER - By Alicia Eggert

Completion of the eighth in the City of Alexandria’s Site See: New Views in Old Town Annual Public Art Series, NOW or NEVER took place in mid-March. Sitting at the foot of King Street in Old Town until November is another “interesting” piece of work. It has been met with mixed reviews across the board. Here is the description at the site:

“Eggert’s artwork features two monumental sculptures that echo the visual language of signs and billboards. They stand face to face across a narrow passageway, one declaring NOW and the other replying NEVER.

The phrase “now or never” resonates on multiple levels. Collectively, it speaks to global challenges in which hesitation means opportunity lost. Individually, it reminds us that every moment is a turning point, an opportunity to choose one’s future and to live deliberately from this moment forward. By inviting people to move physically between the structures, the artwork underscores the possibility of finding common ground, even in polarized circumstances.”

We encourage you to take a look for yourselves and see what resonates with you.

Let Freedom Ring!

In honor of the 250th Celebration of America’s Independence Day, we thought the following quotes from some of our patriots, politicians and others on what they had to say about the freedom we cherish would be appropriate:

• “The winds that blow through the wide sky in these mounts, the winds that sweep from Canada to Mexico, from the Pacific to the Atlantic - have always blown on free men.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt

• “We on this continent should never forget that men first crossed the Atlantic not to find soil for their ploughs but to secure liberty for their souls.” — Robert J. McCracken

• “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and success of liberty.”

— John F. Kennedy

• “In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt

• “You can’t separate peace from freedom because no one can be at peace unless he has his freedom.”

Malcolm X

• “Liberty means responsibility. That is why most men dread it.” — George Bernard Shaw

• “My God! How little do my countrymen know what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other people on earth enjoy!” — Thomas Jefferson

• “Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves.” — Abraham Lincoln

• “Freedom is never free.” — Author Unknown

• “With freedom comes responsibility.” Eleanor Roosevelt

• “There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America.”

Bill Clinton

• “Patriotism is easy to understand in America; it means looking out for yourself by looking out for your country.” — Calvin Coolidge

• “Patriotism is supporting your country all the time and your government when it deserves it.”

Mark Twain

• “I believe in America because we have great dreams, and because we have the opportunity to make those dreams come true.” — Wendell Willkie

• “Courage, then, my countrymen, our contest is not only whether we ourselves shall be free, but whether there shall be left to mankind an asylum on earth for civil and religious liberty.”

Samuel Adams

• “Europe was created by history. America was created by philosophy.” — Margaret Thatcher

• “We, the People, recognize that we have responsibilities as well as rights; that our destinies are bound together; that a freedom which only asks what’s in it for me, a freedom without a commitment to others, a freedom without love or charity or duty or patriotism, is unworthy of our founding ideals, and those who died in their defense.” — Barack Obama

• “Liberty and independence forever.” — Davy Crockett

• “Independence Day: freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirit of men and so it must be daily earned and refreshed — else like a flower cut from its life-giving roots, it will wither and die.” — Dwight D. Eisenhower

• “Happy 4th of July! As you take this day to honor America, ask yourself, “Why am I not honoring America on the other 364 days? Shame on me.” — Stephen Colbert

Treat yourself to some summertime fun on the Blue Ridge Whisky Wine Loop!

Privacy is cybersecurity

Practical ways to help protect your family and wealth

In today’s always-connected world, privacy and cybersecurity go hand in hand. Privacy determines what information about you is visible; cybersecurity helps protect it from being misused. Together, they play an important role in helping safeguard your finances.

Cybercrime affects people across income levels. The risk is amplified during periods of transition, particularly as families navigate the Great Wealth Transfer. As wealth moves between generations, new names appear on accounts, new decision makers step in, and previously private details can surface through legal filings — creating the exact conditions cybercriminals seek: complexity, emotion, and urgency.

Sarah Gosler, head of Cyber Resiliency & Human Defense, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., says cybersecurity technology alone won’t protect you. The most important line of defense is not antivirus software or firewalls but rather a crucial set of human habits, as well as privacy considerations in structuring or transferring wealth.

Planning can either protect or publicize your life

Sophisticated cybercriminals often study their targets through social media, charity events, alumni networks, and more. By the time you receive an email that looks like it’s from your accountant or a message that appears to be from your child, this attacker may already know enough to be very convincing.

Fortunately, there are ways to build privacy into wealth planning. Trusts can be an important tool in managing assets with discretion, says Lorne Maltenfort, private wealth planning director of Wealth & Investment Management, Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. Creating a trust and then retitling assets into that trust can shield assets from public view. When wealth is being transferred upon death of a family member, trusts also help families avoid shepherding assets through probate, a public court proceeding.

Legal changes can also affect anonymity strategies, prompting some families to consider favorable jurisdictions and how trustee duties are structured, Maltenfort notes. Selecting an independent trustee that prioritizes privacy, such as a bank or trust company, can also help protect sensitive information.

Philanthropy is another common privacy flashpoint. Public donor lists and online recognition can reveal patterns about identity, affiliations, and capacity. Donating anonymously or establishing a donor-advised fund or charitable trust can support giving with privacy, says Maltenfort.

Cyber threats target people, not just devices

While cybersecurity tools continue to improve, attackers often bypass them by relying on manipulation, Gosler says. They create urgency, induce fear, or play on emotion to prompt quick action.

Family members can unintentionally add exposure, especially with teenagers or young adults who may unknowingly publish the raw material needed for impersonation or artificial intelligence-enabled voice cloning. When criminals can mimic a family member in distress, decision-making becomes emotional and time-sensitive, dynamics that attackers exploit.

Gosler and Maltenfort agree that the most effective defense is preparation — clear, proactive strategies that help families slow down, verify requests, and respond thoughtfully rather than react emotionally.

Take action: A family-wide checklist

• Reduce your digital footprint. Make social media accounts private and consider limiting what’s shared publicly, especially travel, assets, family routines, birthdays, and pet names, which are often reused in passwords. Establish family norms for what is — and isn’t — appropriate to post online.

• Build identity verification into family life. Create a family passphrase or safe word for unexpected, urgent requests, especially those involving money or distress calls. Assume voice alone is not proof of identity. Verify through a separate channel.

• Modernize your account hygiene. Use multi-factor authentication wherever possible. Consider separate email addresses for personal and business needs, and avoid using your name in the address.

• Treat every money movement as a high-risk moment. Verify any request involving wires, account changes, or sensitive documents. Call a known number rather than the one that appears in a message. Pressure to act immediately is a red flag.

• Give discreetly. Consider making donations anonymously or creating a donoradvised fund or charitable trust that obscures your identity.

• Explore trust structures that enhance privacy. Your advisor can connect you with trust specialists who build strategies to help keep assets private. When naming the trust, avoid using your family’s name.

A modern cybersecurity playbook extends beyond technology to thoughtful planning and trusted guidance. Partnering with your advisor team can help turn awareness into action and complexity into confidence.

Wealth & Investment Management (WIM) offers financial products and services through bank and brokerage affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company. Bank products and services are available through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Wells Fargo Trust is a part of WIM and offers services through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. and Wells Fargo Delaware Trust Company, N.A.

Donor Advised Fund donations are irrevocable charitable gifts. The sponsoring organizations maintaining the fund have ultimate control over how the assets in the fund accounts are invested and distributed. Donor Advised Funds donors do not receive investment returns. The amount ultimately available to the Donor to make grant recommendations may be more or less than the Donor contributions to the Donor Advised Fund. While annual giving is encouraged, the Donor Advised Fund should be viewed as a long-term philanthropic program. Tax benefits depend upon your individual circumstances. You should consult your Tax Advisor. While the operations of the Donor Advised Fund and Pooled Income Funds are regulated by the Internal Revenue Service, they are not guaranteed or insured by the United States or any of its agencies or instrumentalities. Contributions are not insured by the FDIC and are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by, any depository institution. Donor Advised Funds are not registered under federal securities laws, pursuant to exemptions for charitable organizations.

This article was written by/for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Carl M. Trevisan, Managing Director-Investments and Stephen M. Bearce, First Vice President- Investments in Alexandria, VA at 800-247-8602.

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

Investment and insurance products are:not insured by the FDIC or any federal government agency, are not a deposit or other obligation of, or guaranteed by the bank or any bank affiliate, and are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested.

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2026 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

Martha Dandridge Custis Washington

July begins my 30th year with OTC Media, LLC. Who da thunk our relationship would have lasted this long? In 1996, I was serving on the Board of Alexandria's Convention and Visitors Association and was a member of the “Olympic Torch Committee” where I met fellow committee member Lani Gering. Lani was representing the Old Town Crier. The Olympic torch was passing through the city and she was searching for someone to help cover the event: my fellow Board members volunteered me.

One story led to another, including a well circulated column and a multi-year stint as guest curator for Mount Vernon's Gardening Days. It was in those years that I learned the, often unspoken, history of Martha Washington.

Martha Dandridge Custis Washington was born June 2, 1731, in New Kent County, Virginia, the daughter of John Dandridge and his wife Frances. She was educated in domesticity: "in house-keeping, religion, music, needlework and dancing." Martha could read and write, but women then were bound by English common law, to British jurist Sir William Blackstone's Law of Coverture..

Femme Covert is 16th century Anglo-French for "covered" or "protected" woman, In brief, married women were the legal property of their husbands. Twice married, in 1750 and 1759, Martha became her husbands' property: the property of Daniel Parke Custis [17501757]] and George Washington [1759-1799]..

Martha's marriage to Daniel Parke Custis, a Virginia gentleman 20 years her senior, lasted seven years. Together they had four children, a 17,500-acre plantation and 300 slaves. When Daniel died Martha's inheritance from her father was not only returned, she also inherited a portion of husband Daniel's sizable estate.

plantation, a man mostly ready for marriage, George Washington, born February 22, 1732, first asked Martha, the wealthier and more socially adept

The Woman Behind the Father of our

English common law "ensured the dower-rights of the widows of property-owning men." Bottom line: Martha, twice widowed, was accustomed "to command" in household and domestic matters. She was more than capable of managing money, plantations and slaves.

Martha "settled accounts, arranged for a power of attorney, and informed [others] of Daniel's death," author Patricia Brady wrote. "The tone of her letters is strikingly business like,..[S]he notified all that she would be handling the Custis estate."

"In colonial society it was considered wildly eccentric to remain unmarried, and Martha could expect to turn over her responsibilities to a second husband sooner rather than later," Brady explained. "Two or three marriages in a lifetime were the norm...A decent period of mourning was expected, but the timetable could be startlingly short to modern eyes. Baldly put, [Martha Dandridge Custis] was the colony's ultimate marital prize, and she could expect single men to start calling soon after Daniel's death," "Wealthy widows [Femme Soles] were the most economically and personally independent of all American women," Brady continued. Martha's top two suitors: the very wealthy Charles Carter, and the "sketchily educated, son of a second-tier planter" George Washington. Washington then was in the process of upgrading his 2,200-acre Mount Vernon

Nation

of the two, for permission to visit her at her plantation on March 16, 1758. It was a recognizance mission of sorts. Did Washington plan to stay overnight? Who knows, but Martha did invite him to return on March 25 to continue their conversation. Satisfied Washington resigned his commission in the ongoing French and Indian War [1754-1765] on June 31, 1758, ready to say "I do."

George and Martha married approximately ten months after their courtship began, on January 6, 1759. It was in this marital moment that Martha's legal and financial status again changed: from Femme Sole to Femme Covert. Her assets became his, her husband's only to manage.

On April 7, 1759, George Washington relocated his new family to Mt. Vernon. Her 84 dower slaves also. He was, without a shadow of a doubt, in legal control.

"To Robert Cary & Co. Williamsburg May 1, 1759, Gentn

Letter from George Washington to Robert Cary & Co. (May 1, 1759

The Inclosd is the Ministers Certificate of my Marriage with Mrs Martha Custis—properly as I am told—Authenticated, you will therefore for the future please to address all your Letters which relate to the Affairs of the late Danl Parke Custis Esqr. to me, as

by Marriage I am entitled..." George Washington Washington's income was grounded in a mix of military and innovative agricultural activities, He may have left his family at times --the Revolutionary War [1775-1783] and the Whiskey Rebellion [1791--1794 ], but his love for Martha and her two surviving children was always and forever.

Philadelphia, June 23d 1775: My dearest, As I am within a few Minutes of leaving this City, I could not think of departing from it without dropping you a line; especially as I do not know whether it may be in my power to write again till I get to the Camp at Boston—I go... in full confidence of a happy meeting with you sometime in the Fall...I retain an unalterable affection for you, which neither time or distance can change...Your entire, George Washington.

During the Revolutionary War Martha made eight winter trips to either New York, New Jersey or Pennsylvania battlefields. She proved herself not only a faithful consort and on-site organizer but also a fund-raiser, seamstress and nurse. Revolutionary War soldiers were mostly untrained, without proper clothing. and supplies. Paychecks were often late; illness and injury life threatening.

Years later, in the fall of 1790, she proudly returned to Philadelphia as the wife of America's first President. Known for her dancing and entertaining the President's House [1790-1797[ was extremely well organized. Only deadly yellow fever outbreaks drove her to temporarily leave.

George Washington's presidency ended in 1797. He declined the offer of a third term and the two of them returned to Mount Vernon until his death in 1799. If ever they argued it was probably about slavery.

Martha Washington seemed comfortable with the status quo. George, on the other hand, recruited free blacks to serve in the Continental Army. In fact, he freed his slaves upon his death. William 'Billy" Lee was the first of his slaves to be emancipated--"for his faithful services during the Revolutionary War.”

But for the love of another good woman, the Washingtons' Mount Vernon plantation might never have been saved. The restoration effort was born of a boat ride, specifically Alexandria-born South Carolinian Louisa Bird Cunningham’s 1853 Potomac River cruise. May we always remember George and Martha Washington's service to country, and the Mount Vernon Ladies Association of the Union. Mount Vernon's Washington legacy proudly lives on. be it the Mansion and tours, the Farm and the Potomac River view.

About the Author: Sarah Becker started writing for The Economist while a graduate student in England. Similar publications followed. She joined the Crier in 1996 while serving on the Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association Board. Her interest in antiquities began as a World Bank hire, with Indonesia’s need to generate hard currency. Balinese history, i.e. tourism provided the means. The New York Times describes Becker’s book, Off Your Duffs & Up the Assets, as “a blueprint for thousands of nonprofit managers.”

A former museum director, SLAM’s saving grace Sarah received Alexandria’s Salute to Women Award in 2007. Email abitofhistory53@gmail.com

Teenage Dirtbag by Wheatus

In 2000, Wheatus broke through with “Teenage Dirtbag,” a slacker-rock anthem built on crunchy guitar riffs and Brendan B. Brown’s outsider storytelling, turning adolescent alienation into a global alt-pop singalong. Originally a charting international hit and defining early-2000s comingof-age track, the song found an unexpected second life decades later, surging across TikTok and Instagram as users paired sped-up clips with awkward throwback photos and teenage “outcast” memories. Fueled by a viral #TeenageDirtbag trend and amplified by celebrities like Lady Gaga, Madonna, and Jimmy Fallon, the track was reintroduced to a new generation as both meme and memory, collapsing nostalgia and internet culture into a renewed cultural moment.

The song begins with a brief sample-style drum loop processed with a rhythmic EQ filter. This four-second intro is followed by the main verse arrangement, composed of drums, bass, acoustic guitar, and record scratching. As the first verse begins, the record scratching drops out, and we hear Brendan B. Brown’s soft nasally vocals begin a story about a girl named Noelle. The verse also features a few well-placed organ notes, which give the arrangement a subtle shine before more aggressive sounds are introduced. These details help establish the song’s laid-back character while subtly building anticipation for the bigger hooks and louder textures that soon arrive, making the transition feel both natural and exciting.

For the chorus, hard rock guitars are added, blasting layered power chords on the first two beats of each measure. The guitars then pause for the last two beats giving center stage to the snare drum and helping create the song's heavy anthemic rhythm. Additionally, Brown’s vocal delivery dramatically energizes the song, switching from a soft

delivery to full-fledged rock mode. To top it off, the chorus features lyrics that are memorable and catchy, making it easy to understand why people have been singing along for the last 26 years.

After a couple rounds of verses and choruses, the band shifts into the bridge section. Here, the guitars remain heavy like those in the chorus, except the chords are arpeggiated and then left to ring out. Additionally, the drums follow the timing of the guitars and help punctuate the shift in rhythm and feel. Meanwhile, Brown delivers vocals with elongated melodic phrases giving the bridge a soaring anthemic feel and creating a satisfying contrast to the quiet third verse. Wheatus currently has tour dates scheduled for the bulk of August and September of 2026. If you’re interested in catching one of their shows, you can find tickets on their website. Wheatus has also released an alternate synthwave version of “Teenage Dirtbag” earlier this year. The new version features an artist called Vines and is streaming everywhere. If you would like to listen to “Teenage Dirtbag” or any of the band’s other music, you can find it on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and most other places music is streamed or sold. If you would like to learn more about Wheatus, you can find them on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, and X.

About the Author: Ron Powers is an independent A&R specialist and music industry consultant and is constantly searching for, discovering and writing about new talent.

AFTER HOURS

Birchmere

703.549.7500

3701 Mt. Vernon Ave. birchmere.com

The Blackwall Hitch

571-982-3577

5 Cameron St. theblackwallhitch.com

Chadwicks

203 S. Strand St.

703.836.4442

Evening Star Cafe

703.549.5051

2000 Mt. Vernon Ave.

The Fish Market

703.836.5676

105 King St. fishmarketoldtown.com

La Portas

703.683.6313

1600 Duke St.

The Light Horse

703.549.0533

715 King St. lighthorserestaurant.com

Murphys Irish Pub

703.548.1717

713 King St. murphyspub.com

O’Connell’s

703.739.1124

112 King St.

Rock It Grill

703.739.2274

1319 King St.

Shooter McGees

703.751.9266

5239 Duke St. shootermcgees.com

Southside 815

703.836.6222 815 S. Washington St.

2300 Mt. Vernon Ave.

Taverna Cretekou

703.548.8688 818 King

A BEACH BAG OF BOOKS

I am currently hanging out a hundred feet from the Gulf Coast, two feet from the pool, and approximately ten feet from the sun in Southwest Florida, doing my best to drink, swim, eat, and read tropically. It’s time for you too to escape with a list of some classic vacation or staycation beach and travel books that transport you to faraway states of mind and strange places: plunging you into mythical adventures and richly imagined lives.

The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway

Hemingway's Pulitzer Prize-winning novella remains one of the greatest sea stories ever written. The novel follows Santiago, an aging Cuban fisherman who has gone eighty-four days without catching a fish. Determined to prove that he still possesses skill and courage, Santiago ventures further into the Gulf Stream and hooks a massive marlin.

Much of the story centers on Santiago's struggle against the giant fish and the elements. Hemingway's spare prose creates a powerful tale of perseverance, dignity, and resilience.

Jaws by Peter Benchley

Long before it became a blockbuster film, Jaws terrified readers everywhere. The story takes place in the seaside resort town of Amity, where Police Chief Martin Brody discovers that a great white shark is attacking swimmers.

As panic spreads through the community, Brody joins marine biologist Matt Hooper and shark hunter Quint to track the predator. Benchley skillfully balances suspense with small-town politics, personal conflicts, and growing fear. This ocean setting feels vivid and immediate, making readers glance nervously at every wave. Even decades after publication, the novel remains one of the most gripping beach thrillers ever written.

The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith

Tom Ripley is one of literature's most fascinating antiheroes. I have seen the movie with Matt Damon and the recent miniseries starring Andrew Scott—my preference is for the miniseries in part because of its gorgeous, suspenseful black-and-white filming—but as usual, nothing beats the book, which has been one of my favorite classics since I read it two decades ago.

When wealthy businessman Herbert Greenleaf hires Tom to travel to Italy and persuade his son Dickie Greenleaf to return home, Tom eagerly accepts. He joins Dickie and his friend Marge Sherwood in living a glamorous life along the Italian coast. As Tom becomes increasingly obsessed with Dickie's lifestyle, his ambitions begin to take a much darker turn. Highsmith creates an intoxicating atmosphere of sun-drenched beaches, luxury, and mounting tension. A suspenseful and pitch-black-toned novel, it never loses momentum.

The Beach by Alex Garland

A modern classic of travel fiction, The Beach follows young British backpacker Richard as he travels through Thailand in search of adventure. After receiving a mysterious map, he and fellow travelers Françoise and Étienne discover a hidden island paradise.

At first the isolated community appears idyllic. The clear waters, tropical scenery, and freedom

from ordinary life seem like Eden. Yet Richard gradually realizes that paradise may come at a cost. Garland expertly blends adventure, suspense, and social commentary while exploring the human desire to escape civilization.

Blue Latitudes by Tony Horwitz

Kon-Tiki by Thor Heyerdahl

I have loved and remembered this nonfiction adventure for decades. Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl believed ancient South Americans could have crossed the Pacific Ocean using primitive technology. To test his theory, he built a balsa-wood raft and named it Kon-Tiki.

Heyerdahl and five companions embarked on an 8,000-kilometer voyage across the Pacific. The crew faced storms, sharks, and the immense challenges of ocean travel. The narrative combines scientific curiosity with thrilling adventure. Readers feel as though they are aboard the raft alongside the explorers. It remains an inspiring account of courage, determination, and discovery. Put aside the Norwegian movie; read the amazing travelogue.

Tony Horwitz retraces the journeys of eighteenth-century explorer Captain James Cook in this compelling blend of history, travel writing, and memoir. Visiting locations from Alaska to Australia, Horwitz investigates Cook's legacy and explores how modern communities remember the famous navigator.

The book introduces historical figures such as Cook himself and the sailors who accompanied him. Horwitz's humor and curiosity make complex history accessible and engaging. His descriptions of islands, coastlines, and ocean voyages inspire readers to imagine their own adventures. This account is an excellent companion for anyone relaxing by the sea.

The Log from the Sea of Cortez by John Steinbeck

Part travel journal, part scientific exploration, this nonfiction classic recounts John Steinbeck's 1940 expedition through the Gulf of California with marine biologist Ed Ricketts.

The book follows the pair as they collect marine specimens and observe coastal communities. Along the way, Steinbeck reflects on nature, friendship, science, and human behavior. His descriptions of the sea and shoreline possess a vivid beauty that makes readers feel immersed in the environment. The combination of observation and storytelling creates a thoughtful and rewarding reading experience.

The finest beach books do more than provide entertainment. They transport readers to unforgettable places, introduce memorable characters, and create experiences that linger long after the final page. Santiago's determination in The Old Man and the Sea and the haunting mystery surrounding Rebecca de Winter, for example, demonstrate fiction's power to take us to a realm that often feels superior to reality.

Meanwhile, nonfiction works such as Kon-Tiki and Blue Latitudes remind us that real-life adventures can be every bit as compelling as novels. Whether you're sitting beneath an umbrella with me on Siesta Key Beach, FL; relaxing beside a pool, or simply dreaming of the ocean from home, these classic “beach books” offer journeys worth taking.

About the Author: Miriam Kramer worked at Olsson’s Books & Records before it closed in 2008, welcoming Old Town, Alexandria, residents to a unique place where employees with encyclopedic knowledge of literature and music enriched the community. As a global nomad, she has lived, studied, or worked in diverse countries overseas. With her experience writing and studying international affairs, she has promoted democracy, international media, the arts, peace building, and citizen diplomacy during her career.

ONSTAGE:

Celebrate our country’s 250 th birthday with some of the DMV’s best theater. You don’t need a UFC boxing ring or no-talent concert to show your patriotism. Spend a few bucks at one of the following box offices and keep free speech alive!

PIPPIN

Signature Theatre

Now through July 26

Brayden Bambino is a handsome, winning Pippin and Erik Teague’s costumes sparkle in this Fosse-faithful production of “Wicked,” composer-lyricist Stephen Schwartz’s Broadway musical hit. Naomi Jacobson scores again as Pippin’s wiry grandmother, all under the loving direction of Matthew Gardiner. Choreographer Rachel Leigh Dolan does a nice job reshaping the original movement for Signature’s in-the-round performance space, while musical director Jon Kalbfleisch hews close to the original orchestrations. Leading Player Cedric Neal pushed a little too hard for my tastes, but an appreciative audience gave the production the hoots and hollers it deserved. Tickets at www.sigtheatre.org

HOW SHAKESPEARE SAVED MY LIFE

Folger Library Theatre

Now through July 5

Calling on the Bard and a host of genius rappers, half-crazed preachers, and soulful poets, playwright-actor Jacob Ming-Trent takes us on a propulsive ride that reaffirms the power of language and music in this one man show that follows Ming-Trent’s attempt to reclaim his youth and connect to the deeper parts of us all. Over one hundred uninterrupted minutes, Ming-Trent grabs us by the heart and demands we follow his soul-crushing life story to its triumphant conclusion. Join the congregation while you can! Tickets at www.folger.edu

FEELING AFRAID AS IF SOMETHING TERRIBLE IS GOING TO HAPPEN

Studio Theatre

Now through July 12

Marcelo Dos Santos stars in this one-man show about a permanently single, professionally neurotic stand-up who finally meets Mr. Right and then proceeds to do everything wrong. His dark journey through self-awareness and self-sabotage leads him-- and perhaps some of us as well—to choose between love and that killer punchline, delving into the anxieties of modern life from the fear of intimacy to the terror of vulnerability. Tickets at www.studiotheatre.org

OLD TOWN

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG

Keegan Theatre

Now through July 19

Those well-meaning thespians at the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society are presenting another old chestnut when things go rather swiftly from bad to utterly disastrous. Whether it’s the unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, or actors who trip over everything including their lines, the show must go on, despite the hilarious consequences. Tickets at www.keegantheatre.com

NO EXIT

Now through July 19

Atlas Performing Arts Center

Scena Theatre’s offers up Jean-Paul Satre’s existential drama about three fraught souls seemingly locked in a room together. Force to confront their pasts and each other, they (and we) come to the conclusion that psychological torture can be far worse than physical pain. Tickets at www.atlasarts.org.

WHAT BECAME OF US

Now through July 26

Signature Theatre

Signature employs two separate casts from very different backgrounds to tell this story about two siblings—one an immigrant, the other native-born—who remain connected across oceans over the course of a lifetime. Each pair’s disparate perspective leads to both fractures and forgiveness as they witness each other’s story in Signature’s intimate Ark space. Tickets at www.sigtheatre.org

CATCH ME IF YOU CAN

Little Theatre of Alexandria

Now through August 8

Based on the unbelievable true story of one of the most famous con artists in history, Frank Abagnale Jr., this rousing musical pits Frank against Agent Carl Hanratty (Tom Hanks in the movie), whose dogged pursuit of the miscreant provides the arc of this Broadway musical. From the creative team behind “Hairspray,” it’s the tale of an ingenious, yet lonely, boy looking for his place in the world. Tickets at www.thelittletheatre.com

CRAZYSEXYCOOL—THE TLC MUSICAL

Arena Stage

Now through August 9

Storming the '90s music scene and topping the charts, the world-renowned vocal trio TLC created the look, the sound, and the soul of a generation with their unforgettable anthems, fly dance moves and head-turning style. Now their journey comes to the stage in this fresh new musical by writer/ director Kwame Kwei-Armah, who brings TLC’s (mostly true) story of unshakable sisterhood to the stage with multi-platinum hits from “Waterfalls,” and “Creep,” to “Unpretty,” and “No Scrubs.” Tickets at www.arenastage.org.

SLEEPING BEAUTY: THE TIME TRAVELER

Now through August 23

Adventure MTC

The renowned children’s theater company in Glen Echo Park—celebrating its 75th birthday—adds a contemporary spin to the classic tale. There’s still an evil curse and a hidden spindle—but that’s about all you’ll recognize in this new musical about girl power and breaking out of your “castle” to see the world, no matter the risks. As always, Adventure MTC offers an easy bridge for young theatergoers to navigate as they grow from sixty minute musicals about their favorite fairy tales (this one with a computer game twist) and grown up fare like “Wicked” or “The Sound of Music.” Tickets at www.adventuretheatre-mtc.org

BETTLEJUICE

July 7-19

National Theatre

Say the title three times and you’re in big trouble. The musical that refuses to die has been touring the country with occasional stops back on Broadway since it opened in 2019, following a try-out here at the National (talk about returning from the dead!). Based on Tim Burton’s film about an unusual teenager whose life changes when she meets a demon with a thing for stripes, this is one wacky musical. Tickets at www.broadwayatthenational.com

ADRIFT

July 16- August 2

Round House Theatre

Happenstance Theater melds music, comedy, magic and puppetry in a postapocalyptic voyage that channels the paintings of Hieonymous Bosch and tarot card icons. Follow along as this pod of eccentrics drifts thru their shared hopes and fears, ultimately finding a way forward. Tickets at www.roundhousetheatre.org.

About the Author: Mark Edelman is a playwright who loves writing about theater. He is a lifetime member of the Broadway League and a Tony® voter. Catch his monthly podcast at www.onstagedmv.org.

Photo credits: Beetlejuice by Matthew Murphy; Pippin by Daniel Rader; How Shakespeare Saved My Life by Erika Nizborski. Feeling Afraid… by D.J. Corey; The Play That Goes Wrong by Cameron Whitman

That’s A Wrap!

When I was a kid in Brooklyn, right across the street from our house was the Our Lady of Loretto church, next to it a convent and a Catholic school, where it seemed to me that all the kids in the mostly Italian neighborhood in East New York attended. One of the things that I recall one of the nuns teaching us was a saying that went along the lines of "the most important thing to have access to is information." Or something along those lines anyway.

We are now in the age of information, where paradoxically, there's so much information being pumped out that it is nearly impossible to keep up with it all.

For artists, information is one of the keys for developing, maintaining and improving your artistic career. Long gone are the days of the artist, secluded in his/her studio and creating away, waiting for discovery and eternal fame. If you, as an artist, do not make an effort - no a commitment - to stay informed... then you've significantly reduced your chances of exposing your artwork to the public, providing that this is one of your goals and you do not want to end up like Francis Hines and having your artwork "discovered" in a dumpster after you died and THEN becoming (in his case again) acclaimed and famous.

Enter Jared Whipple, a car mechanic from Waterbury, Connecticut, who in 2017 Whipple received a call from a contractor friend. The friend was clearing out an abandoned, collapsing barn in Watertown, Connecticut which had once belonged to an elderly man who had passed away. Whipple's bud was essentially asking him for a help clearing out the joint and pointed Whipple toward a massive dumpster parked outside the barn.

Peering over the edge of the rusty container, Whipple did not see the usual debris. Instead, he saw hundreds of large canvases wrapped tightly in protective plastic, completely covered in decades of barn dust, mold, and dirt. Intrigued by the sheer volume of the discarded canvases, Whipple decided to load the mystery cargo into his truck rather than letting it head to the local landfill. He had no idea he was hauling away a multimillion-dollar fortune.

For years Whipple conducted a relentless research campaign for information: combing through obscure art registries, estate records, and local history archives. Finally, a faint signature on the back of a canvas cracked the case wide open: Francis Hines.

Hines had been one of the well-known artists of the 1980s New York City art circles -- he was once a radical pioneer of the "wrapping" art movement. In the 1970s and 1980s, Hines was a known entity in the competitive Manhattan avant-garde scene. His grand artistic statement occurred in 1980, when he received permission to wrap the historic Washington Square Arch in New York City with 8,000 yards of white polyester fabric. By the late 1980s, as it often happens in the brutal world of "what's hot today" in art, Hines had faded from the spotlight. He retreated to his Connecticut barn, continuing to create his complex, wrapped pieces in total isolation. When he died in 2016 at the age of 96, his family and

caretakers, unaware of the cultural significance of the storage barn's contents, abandoned the property. The building fell into neglect, and its contents were eventually designated as trash, which is when Jared Whipple entered the picture (pun intended).

Whipple knew he held something extraordinary, but because he was a nobody in the rarified artmosphere (see what I did there?) of the fine arts world, he needed validation from the institutional cabal of the art world. He reached out to art historians and others and was usually ignored until he eventually caught the attention of Peter Hastings Falk, a renowned art dealer and appraiser. When Falk stepped into the mechanic's garage, he was stunned. He instantly recognized the pieces as a cohesive, brilliant retrospective of a forgotten master.

Then and only then, after one of "theirs" had given the nod, art experts formally evaluated the collection of roughly 400 pieces, valuing the total haul at several million dollars. The narrative of the dumpster-diving mechanic and the forgotten artist quickly captured global media attention, turning Hines into a posthumous sensation in the age of Al Gore's Internet.

May 2022, the prestigious Hollis Taggart Gallery in New York City officially legitimized the discovery. The gallery hosted a dedicated exhibition titled "Francis Hines: Unwrapping the Mystery" (get it? very cool take on the work title!). Art collectors who had ignored Hines for thirty years scrambled to secure a piece of the historic find. Individual canvases that were hours away from being crushed in a garbage truck sold for prices in the five digit range!

What is the lesson for artists in this bit of information that some of you have just learned? More in next month's column!

About the Author: F. Lennox Campello’s art news, information, gallery openings, commentary, criticism, happenings, opportunities, and everything associated with the global visual arts scene with a special focus on the Greater Washington, DC area has been a premier source for the art community for over 20 years. Since 2003, his blog has been the 11th highest ranked art blog on the planet with over SIX million visitors.

Devil with the Blue Dress

“She’s a real humdinger and I like it like that.”

There is lots of new inventory in the shop and you can order online. Choose your style, your size and color, including the tie dye blue (but no brushstroke). From Christopher Calvin.

Choose your style, your size and color, including the tie dye blue (but no brushstroke). From Christopher Calvin.

Jane Seymour Hat by Walleroo. Jewelry by Sarah Cavender Metalworks. Handmade in Oxford, Alabama.

Jane Seymour Hat by Walleroo. Jewelry by Sarah Cavender Metalworks. Handmade in Oxford, Alabama.

Monday – Sunday, 11am – 5pm

We are officially an online store only. Check us out at www.imagineartwear.com (703) 548-1461 // csimagine@aol.com

1124 King Street l Alexandria, Virginia 22314 703-548-1461 l www.imagineartwear.com csimagine@aol.com

Join us for ART + WINE + CHEESE on Thursday, July 16, 6-7:30 PM featuring Old Town Crier Columnist and Alexandria native Lori Welch Brown

“A woman in love with abstraction” - 2021

“ONE OF THE MOST INTERESTING PEOPLE OF WASHINGTON, DC”

"Woman balancing on a Jackson Pollock landscape", 2026 F. Lennox Campello. 32x40 inches, mixed media original painting on 600 weight paper.

Exclusively representing the works of F. Lennox Campello

Price and additional images upon request.

16x20 watercolor on paper with embedded electronic images that rotate every 5 seconds.

– Washington City Paper

Exclusively representing the works of F. Lennox Campello

Price and additional images upon request.

Alida Anderson Art Projects, LLC, Washington, DC www.alidaanderson.com / info@alidaanderson.com

Summer is for the birds!

Bring a little nature to your door with the original handfelted birdhouse! We love these highly decorative and adorable gifts for indoor use. but hang outdoors in a protected area (on a porch) where wrens like to nest and you'll be so surprised! A fun surprise gift for anyone.

Crafted in Nepal

915 King St, Old Town Alexandria 703-684-1435

July On the Western Shore

This month we leaned on the wonders of AI to help gather information about some of the great events and places to visit this month along the Western Shore of the Chesapeake. One of the wonders of living where we do is that we are never more than and hour or two away from a place to drive to and feel like we are on a mini-vacation. This is true for the Blue Ridge destinations as well. Having personally experienced pretty much everything and every place mentioned below, I can attest that they are all fantastic options.

July on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay means peak summer— think warm weather, humid days, and vibrant waterfront towns. It is a prime season for catching blue crabs, fishing for rockfish (striped bass), and enjoying coastal festivals.

A few essential activities and natural quirks stand out during this time of the year:

Fossil Hunting at Flag Ponds: Visit Flag Ponds Nature Park in Lusby to walk sandy beaches and hunt for prehistoric shark teeth. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Rose Haven.

Boating & Fishing: Early mornings are best to beat the afternoon heat. Anglers flock to structures near the Chesapeake Beach area for the top-water bite.

Catching Blue Crabs: The summer heat means the crabs are active, though larger ones tend to settle in depths of 10 to 15 feet.

Summer Celebrations: The month kicks off with waterside Fourth of July celebrations. For instance, Chesapeake Beach hosts a free festival on July 3rd with food trucks and barges launching fireworks directly over the bay.

The Roots & Tides Scenic Byway: Take this 47-mile driving route (around a 2-hour trip) starting in Annapolis. It’s perfect for exploring colonial-era streets, museums, and quiet marshlands.

kicks off with major Independence Day events and transitions into weekly concert series and living history displays spanning local towns.

A breakdown of key recurring schedules and locations along the Western Shore includes:

Independence Day Celebrations (Early July)

Chesapeake Beach: Festivities at Kellam's Field begin at 5:30 PM with food trucks and family activities, followed by a massive fireworks show launched from bay barges at dusk.

July on the Western Shore of the Chesapeake Bay is packed with outdoor festivals, maritime celebrations, and firework shows. The summer calendar

Baltimore Inner Harbor: Features a 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM celebration with live musical performances from the Navy Band Commodores and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, ending with a fireworks display over the Waterfront Promenade at 9:30 PM.

Annapolis: Parades and family activities typically occur around the City Dock, followed by fireworks visible from the Naval Academy bridge and other waterfront vantage points.

Solomons Island / Calvert County: Known for one of the most scenic firework displays on the Patuxent River. Enjoy waterfront dining and live music throughout the island before the main show. We have experienced these fireworks and they are truly amazing. You can see the fireworks going off in St. Mary’s County across the river at the same time.

Recurring Weekly Summer Events

Calvert Marine Museum (Solomons): Hosts their Waterside Concert Series and Family Fun Fridays featuring hands-on maritime activities and wildlife education.

Annapolis Maritime Museum (Annapolis): Hosts the Tides and Tunes Concert Series on Thursday evenings, offering live music on the beach with stunning views of the Bay.

Annapolis Town Center: Offers Thursday Night Live music events with local food, drinks, and openair entertainment.

In closing, keep in mind the hot summer days include the chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Be prepared for brief, pop-up convective thunderstorms typically rolling in around 4 p.m. They don’t usually last too long and tend to cool things off a bit so there is an upside!

The Plains, VA Where Size Doesn’t Matter

The Plains is not a “sneeze and you’ll miss it” kind of place. Quite the contrary.

Albeit tiny, 0.3 square miles with a population of 266, The Plains surprises like the iconic clown car. Except when the doors open an array of eateries, galleries, antique and furniture stores, and a Gothic church burst upon this picturesque village. And The Plains is not without a sense of whimsy.

One needs to travel 7,603 miles from The Plains to arrive in Nairobi; 7,396 miles to Shanghai; and 3,912 miles to Chantilly, France. This information appears on a directional sign post situated in the heart of the village that seems to have no relevance other than make you chuckle.

The Plains dates to the 18th century when the Colony of Virginia expanded and allowed Europeans to construct settlements in the area. Before and during the Civil War, the area was called "White Plains." At some point, White Plains christened a new Post Office but named it simply "The Plains." It stuck.

Located in the green and rolling countryside of northern Fauquier County, The Plains is surrounded by horse farms. It is steeped in equestrian tradition, as evidenced by the visit of Queen Camilla during her and King Charles’s recent visit to the United States. The Queen toured Smitten Farm, a well-known horse breeding and racing operation, to learn about the work of the American horse racing industry.

An amazing number of dining options exist. The Rail Stop and Bistro@The Porch serve American cuisine. Both focus on fresh, local farm-to-table ingredients, offer daily specials, and indoor and outdoor dining are available.

Bistro@Porch takes some liberties with classic dishes by adding creative twists. The Bistro’s friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere bring in many repeat customers. Choice of seating includes inside, on the front porch, or in the back garden.

Doppio Bunny serves locally roasted coffee, homemade baked goods, and more. It’s a neighborhood hang-out with a spacious, shabby chic kind of feel that invites meet-ups, a comfortable place for a caffeine fix and work, and a place to play chess.

Crest Hill Tea Room is an English style tea room that looks like it could have played a bit part in the Downton Abby series. It offers more than 70 blends of teas and beverages, lunch sandwiches, and scones.

The Rail Stop is in a charming, converted railroad station. All breads, pastas and desserts are made on site. The homemade raviolis do not disappoint.

Reservations can be made for groups who want to celebrate by experiencing a proper English tea time with the appropriate china, cutlery, and sweets’ tray. 2Kyles offerings include paninis, flatbreads, pizzas, salads and sandwiches for eat-in or take-out. But

2Kyles is not your typical sandwich shop, evidenced by the mini beef wellington with horseradish dipping sauce available as an appetizer. There’s also a pop-up shop for purchase of favorite spice mixes and locally made products.

Girasole Restaurant, a perennial local favorite, serves authentic regional Italian cuisine coupled with an extensive selection of wines from Italy. Open for dinner only

Difficult to miss Zigzag Gallery, located on the main drag. It presents exhibitions of local, regional and international contemporary artists and carries a large variety of jewelry and crafts.

Upscale antiques, period furniture and home furnishings, including lighting, rugs, textiles, gifts and more, are housed and staged in Bailey Wyck Antiques’s converted firehouse encompassing 7000 square feet. Other merchandise includes a selection of sought-after equestrian-themed art.

Grace Episcopal Church is an excellent example of 13th century rural English Gothic architecture. Consecrated in 1918, the church and parish hall were built of local stone given as free-will offerings and hauled from neighboring farms. The original Grace Episcopal, founded in 1855, was a white frame structure that did not survive the Civil War.

All of these restaurants, shops, galleries are situated on a two-block area. Maybe because of its size, The Plains is hiding in plain sight. Make plans to find it and all it has to offer.

About the Author: Meg Mullery is a contributing writer and Blue Ridge distribution “assistant” to the OTC and just a great all-around person. She knows her way around weaving a story.

VISIT HUNT COUNTRY

BY JOHN

Let’s take a Wa L k!

Yep, you read that headline correctly. This month we stayed right here in Old Town Alexandria. Too many things packed into the June calendar to take the time to “hit the road” so I “hit the trail”! The bike trail, that is…

Over the last 34 years I have spent a decent amount of time on the incredible bike trail that traverses throughout Alexandria and along the Potomac River both on foot and by bicycle. More so in the earlier years, but my curiosity about the new improvements these past few years drew me back to the trail last month. In doing my recon, I walked by what I’ve always referred to as the “Barbie Doll” Washington Monument and the “plaster” lips and eyes situated on the water at the foot of Canal Center. I bet I have been by this at least 200 times or more over the years and why I never actually stopped to take in the entire scope of these sculptures is beyond me. While I am late to the party, I’m very happy that I took the time to see what it was all about. As an aside, in my research I see that these sculptures have been written about more than a few times over the years but guess I didn’t pay attention. My bad.

It turns out that there is much more to the minimonument, big eyes and lips than meets the eye from the path. Enter Promenade Classique.

Promenade Classique is a sculpture and water feature installation situated on 6-acres located between the TransPotomac Canal Center plaza at 44 Canal Street and Tide Lock Park on the water. Designed in 1986 by French sculpture artists Anne and Patrick Poirier and landscape architect M. Paul Friedberg, the sculpture garden functions as an art walk designed to lead you on a journey from the central office plaza down a terraced landscape toward the Potomac River. According to my findings, “the Poirier’s designed the park with a

fascination for antiquity, myth, and classical ruins. The installation bridges the gap between America’s young history and the ancient, classical past of European architecture.” I love the connection of America’s young history – the Barbie Doll Monument – as it relates to our 250th birthday this month.

In the aforementioned research, I found a few different takes on the Promenade by various artists and other “culture” experts and I agree with parts of all of them. There are a few very technical descriptions that would interest you if you were an art curator but I prefer the simple version.

Modern Elements: A massive bronze lightning bolt anchors the upper pool and metaphorically "launches" the flow of water down through the terraced fountains and pools. The 20-foot drop in the site features cascading water fountains that flow past gargantuan sculptural fragments. — like the large, weeping marble eyes and lips spraying water.

Eyes & Lips Fountain: The installation features oversized, fragmented, weeping marble eyes and lips that include a distinct waterfall pool flanked by a large, all-seeing eye and giant marble lips that expel a spray of water during the warmer seasons. At the very bottom of the waterfall are more marble fragments of Roman columns, as well as eyes and lips.

Obelisk/Mini Washington Monument: At the water's edge, the path terminates at the miniature Washington Monument obelisk. This centerpiece of the lower level is 30-foot-tall, 14-ton marble obelisk that serves as a direct visual replica of the original Washington Monument located on The Mall in D.C. across the river. Unfortunately, there isn’t a plaque with any information about the connection of this monument to the original, or any information about the entire installation for that matter, that I could find at the site.

Right next to the Promenade Classique is Tide Lock Park. The park was built around the historic Alexandria Canal. Operating from 1843 to the 1880’s, this sevenmile waterway linked Alexandria with the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, and the park preserves remnants of the old canal locks that brought ships from the canal's elevation down to the Potomac. I don’t know how long it has been there, but there is a walking bridge that goes across the canal now. When I was biking the trail, you had to traverse around it. While the canal has an amazing history, it isn’t very photogenic and without water in it, kind of depressing. You can use your imagination after reading the informative sign at the location.

The park offers exceptional views of the Potomac River, the Maryland shoreline, and the D.C. skyline. The afternoon I was there, there were several people sitting on the benches reading and lunching as well as a nice number walking the path. I stopped for a while and watched a sailboat working its way up the river. It was very peaceful. And since it sits directly under the flight path for Reagan Airport, it’s a good spot to watch low-flying airplanes.

The park is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and keep in mind there are no public restrooms. If you don’t feel like taking a walk along the path, parking options are located nearby. I would suggest that you park in the garage or along Canal Street if you can find a place and start your adventure at the base of the bronze lightning bolt - looks more like an arrow to me - and work your way down to the water.

The photos accompanying this piece really don’t do the sculptures and water features justice. You really need to experience it in person to really appreciate this amazing piece of real estate along the path right here in our fair city.

The Only All-Inclusive Resort on St. Thomas

Bolongo Bay Beach Resort

A 1,000-foot crescent of golden sand on the southern coast of St. Thomas. Beachfront rooms with the sand literally outside the door. The only true allinclusive resort on the island. And a family-owned operation that has been quietly perfecting its formula since 1974.

That’s Bolongo Bay Beach Resort — a small, intimate, family-run all-inclusive beachfront resort tucked into a cove on the southern coast of St. Thomas, and one of the more distinctive all-inclusive options anywhere in the Caribbean right now.

It’s also sitting at a notable rate. Bolongo Bay Beach Resort currently has all-inclusive rates starting at $364 per night, according to what I found on Google Hotels. That covers a Saturday-Saturday trip from July 5-12.

That’s a meaningful price point for an allinclusive beachfront resort in a destination where comparable beachfront properties in the US Virgin Islands can push past $700 per night, especially during peak summer travel weeks.

The most distinctive thing about Bolongo Bay is the simplest: it is the only true all-inclusive resort on St. Thomas — and one of just two all-inclusive properties in the entire US Virgin Islands, alongside the Divi Carina Bay on St. Croix. All-inclusive stays remain a genuinely rare category across the USVI, which has historically leaned toward boutique properties, villa rentals and traditional resorts — and Bolongo Bay has been the lone all-inclusive option on St. Thomas since the program first launched here in 1989.

It is also one of only a handful of true allinclusive resorts anywhere in the United States or its territories — a genuinely rare category that gives the property a real editorial distinction.

The property itself has been operated by the same family — the Doumeng family — since 1974, when Dick and Joyce Doumeng purchased a small three-building beachfront accommodation on Bolongo Bay. Over the decades, the property has grown into one of the most-loved small resorts in the USVI, with a deeply loyal repeat-guest

base that has helped define its boutique-meetsall-inclusive character. The resort is small by allinclusive standards — just 65 guest rooms across the property, with 64 true beachfront categories and a handful of value rooms behind.

The scale is one of the property’s signature features. Unlike the larger-format all-inclusive resorts that dominate Mexico and the wider Caribbean, Bolongo Bay feels more like an intimate family-run beachfront inn than a sprawling resort complex — which is exactly the appeal.

We particularly like the beachfront rooms, which sit on the ground floor of the property with direct walk-out access to the sand. The setup is unusual even by Caribbean standards — most beachfront properties require a walk through a path or a pool deck to reach the sand, but at Bolongo Bay, the rooms have a back door that opens directly onto the beach. For a genuine, barefoot, sand-at-yourfeet Caribbean experience, it is one of the more distinctive room categories in the region.

The all-inclusive program itself is also one of the more interesting in the Caribbean. Unlike the buffet-heavy approach that has long defined the larger all-inclusive category, Bolongo Bay has built its all-inclusive offering around an à la carte dining program — featuring lobster, steaks, prime rib and full menus of Caribbean-inspired dishes. The program also includes premium liquor, daily live entertainment and a roster of activities that runs from non-motorized water sports (kayaks, paddleboards) to catamaran tours operated from the resort’s own dock. The catamaran program is one of the property’s mostloved amenities — with snorkeling tours and sunset cocktail cruises both leaving directly from the resort.

The dining anchor is Iggies’ Oasis, the property’s oceanside restaurant, which serves daily across the all-inclusive program with a mix of Caribbean flavors and casual American favorites. The beach is another core part of the Bolongo Bay equation.

Bolongo Bay is a 1,000-foot crescent of soft golden sand tucked into a calm, protected cove on the southern coast of St. Thomas — one of the more underrated beaches on the island, with calm Caribbean Sea water, an offshore reef for snorkeling and the kind of quiet, residential feel that the more famous Magens Bay has long since lost. The resort sits at the heart of the beach, with the full crescent within walking distance and a calm, low-key atmosphere that makes it ideal for families, couples and small groups alike.

The reef just offshore is another bonus — accessible from the beach, with strong snorkeling and reliable visibility year-round.

The location works well for exploring the rest of St. Thomas, too. The resort sits about 15 minutes from Cyril E. King Airport, making it one of the more accessible St. Thomas properties — and a meaningful advantage on an island where airport-to-resort transfers can otherwise

eat up a meaningful portion of arrival day. The lively dining and shopping scene of Red Hook is about 10 minutes away, with daily ferries running from the Red Hook Ferry Terminal to St. John, where the protected beaches of Virgin Islands National Park — including the famous Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay — make for one of the most memorable day trips in the region.

Downtown Charlotte Amalie and the USVI shopping district sit about 15 minutes in the other direction, with Frenchman’s Reef and Magens Bay also within easy reach.

The fact that it is the only true all-inclusive on St. Thomas — with no passport required, premium dining, premium liquor and a full activities program — makes it one of the more genuinely unique stays in the Caribbean for anyone planning an all-inclusive trip without the international flight.

Summer has become one of the better value windows of the year in the US Virgin Islands, with warm water, lighter crowds and rates at small-format properties that drop well below peak-winter pricing. At Bolongo Bay, the $364 nightly all-inclusive rate for the July 5-12 window is meaningful value — particularly for a property that includes premium dining, premium liquor and a full slate of beach and water activities in the rate.

If you’re planning a quick Caribbean trip this summer — and want the all-inclusive experience on St. Thomas specifically — this is one of the more compelling stays in the region right now.

About the Author: Caitlin Sullivan began her career with Caribbean Journal as Arts and Culture editor before shifting to travel full time. She writes frequently on the Caribbean cruise industry, flight networks and broader travel news. Her most frequent Caribbean destination? Nassau. Follow Caitlin and the other talented writers at caribjournal.com.

DINING GUIDE

AMERICAN

1799 PRIME STEAK & SEAFOOD

110 S. Pitt Street

571-404-6001

ADA'S ON THE RIVER

3 Pioneer Mill Way

703-638-1400

AUGIE’S MUSSEL HOUSE 1106 King Street 703.721.3970

BLACKWALL HITCH

5 Cameron St. 703-739-6090

BOB & EDITHS DINER 1743 King Street

703-664-0043 bobandedithsdiner.com

CHADWICKS 203 Strand St. 703-836-4442

CHART HOUSE One Cameron St. 703-684-5080

CITY KITCHEN 330 South Pickett St. 703-685-9172 fatcitykitchen.com

COOPER MILL 10 Duke St. 703-566-1278

EDDIE'S LITTLE SHOP & DELI 1406 King Street 571-312-8615

EVENING STAR CAFÉ

2000 Mt. Vernon Ave.

703-549-5051

EXECUTIVE DINER & CAFE 1400 Duke Street 703-299-0894

FRANKIE'S KITCHEN & COCKTAIL BAR 823 S. Washington St. 703-512-2118 frankiesoldtown.com

GADSBYS TAVERN 138 N. Royal St. 703-548-1288

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

HEN QUARTER 1404 King St. 703-684-6969

HOME GROWN 1600 King Street 703-705-4955

HOPS 'N SHINE 3410 Mount Vernon Ave. 703-566-1509

HUMMINGBIRD 220 South Union Street 703-566-1355

JACK'S PLACE 222 North Lee St. 703-684-0372

JOE THEISMANNS

1800 Diagonal Rd. 703-739-0777

JULA'S ON THE POTOMAC 44 Canal Center 571-800-6644

JUNCTION BAKERY & BISTRO 1508 Mount Vernon Avenue 703-436-0025 junctionbakery.com

KILN - HOTEL HERON 699 Prince St. 703-662-1900

KINGS RANSOM 728 King Street 571-319-0794

LAPORTAS 1600 Duke St. 703-683-6313

THE LIGHT HORSE 715 King Street 703-549-0533

LOST DOG CAFE

808 North Henry St. 571-970-6511

MACMILLAN'S SPIRIT HOUSE 500 Montgomery St. 703-665-6690

MASON SOCIAL 728 Henry Street 703-548-8800 mason-social.com

MURPHY'S GRAND IRISH PUB 713 King St. 703-548-1717 murphyspub.com

NORTHSIDE 1O 10 East Glebe Rd. 703-888-0032

OAK STEAKHOUSE 901 N. St. Asaph St. 703-840-3395

O'CONNELLS RESTAURANT & BAR 112 King St. 703-739-1124 DanielOconnells.com

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

THE PEOPLES DRUG 103 N. Alfred Street 571-257-8851

RAMPARTS 1700 Fern St. 703-998-6616 rampartstavern.com

RIVER BEND BISTRO 7966 Fort Hunt Rd. 703-347-7545 riverbendbistro.com

ROCK IT GRILL 1319 King St. 703-739-2274

ROYAL RESTAURANT 730 N. St. Asaph St. 703-548-1616

RT'S RESTAURANT 3804 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-684-6010 rtsrestaurant.com

SHOOTER MCGEES 5239 Duke St. 703-751-9266

SLATERS MARKET 1552 Potomac Greens Dr. 703-548-3807

SMOKING KOW BBQ 3250 Duke Sttreet 703-888-2649

SONOMA CELLAR 207 King St. 703-966-3550

SOUTH BLOCK 106 N. Lee Street 703-465-8423

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

SWEET FIRE DONNA'S

510 John Carlyle Street 571-312-7960

THE MAJESTIC 911 King St. 703-837-9117

THE STUDY 116 South Alfred Street 703-838-8000

T.J. STONE'S

GRILL HOUSE & TAP ROOM 608 Montgomery St. 703-548-1004 tjstones.com

TOASTIQUE GOURMET TOAST & JUICE BAR 1605 King Street 571-312-1909

UNION STREET PUBLIC HOUSE

121 South Union St. 703-548-1785 unionstreetpublichouse.com

VIRTUE FEED & GRAIN 106 South Union St. 571-970-3669

VOLA’S DOCKSIDE GRILL & HI-TIDE

LOUNGE

101 North Union St. 703-935-8890

THE WAREHOUSE BAR & GRILL

214 King St. 703-683-6868 warehouseoldtown.com

ASIAN

ASIAN BISTRO

809 King St. 703-836-1515

CAPHE BANH MI VIETNAMESE

407 Cameron St. 703-549-0800

INDOCHEN 1625 King Street (571) 404-6050

KISSO ASIAN BISTRO

300 King Street

703-888-1513

MALAYA 1019 King St. 703-519-3710

MAI THAI 9 King St. 703-548-0600

NASIME 1209 King St. 703-548-1848

RAILBIRD KITCHEN 804 North Henry St. 703-577-9023

SIGNATURE THAI 722 King Street 707-888-2458

SISTERS THAI 503 Montgomery St. 571-777-8154

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

UMIYA SUSHI 3000 Duke Street 703-564-1800

CONTINENTAL

ALEXANDRIA BIER GARDEN 710 King Street 703-888-1951

CEDAR KNOLL GW Parkway at Lucia Ln. 703-780-3665

OLD HOUSE COSMOPOLITAN 1024 Cameron Street 703-717-9361

FRENCH

BASTILLE 606 N. Fayette St. 703-519-3776 bastillerestaurant.com

BEN' YAYS 1028 King Street 703-495-3888

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

JOSEPHINE 109 South St. Asaph St. 703-683-1776

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

LA MADELEINE 500 King St. 703-729-2854

MAISON BREIZH AT BASTILLE 1205 Pendleton St. 703-863-0159 maisonbreizhva.com

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

ITALIAN

ALDO'S ITALIAN KITCHEN 2850 Eisenhower Avenue 703-888-2243

ANDY’S PIZZA 107 N Fayette St 571-319-0497

BUGSY'S PIZZA RESTAURANT 111 King St. 703-683-0313

EPICURE ON KING 703 King Street 703-838-9090

HANDOVER BY THE SLICE 728 King Street 571-319-0794

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

LANDINI BROTHERS 115 King St. 703-836-8404 landinibrothers.com

LENA’S WOOD-FIRED PIZZA & TAP 401 East Braddock Rd. 703-960-1086

MIA'S ITALIAN KITCHEN 100 King Street 703-997-5300

PIECE OUT 2419 Mount Vernon Avenue 703-398-1287

REDROCKS NEAPOLITAN BISTRO 904 King St. 703-717-9873

THOMPSON ITALIAN 1026 King Street alexandria@thompsonitalian.com

MEDITERRANEAN

BARCA PIER & WINE BAR 2 Pioneer Mill Way 703-638-1100

DELIA'S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 209 Swamp Fox Rd. 703-329-0006

ELAINE'S 208 Queen Street 571-970-0517

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

PITA HOUSE 719 King St. 703-684-9194

VALLETTA PORT 682 N St Asaph St. 703-512-4122

VASO'S MEDITERRANEAN BISTRO 1118 King Street 703-566-2720

VASO'S KITCHEN 1225 Powhatan Street 703-548-2747

SEAFOOD

HANK'S OYSTER BAR 818 N St. Asaph 703-739-HANK

FISH MARKET 105 King St. 703-836-5676 fishmarketoldva.com

THE WHARF 119 King St. 703-836-2834

WHISKEY & OYSTER 301 John Carlyle 703-567-1533

INDIAN

BOLLYWOOD MASALA 211 King Street 703-512-0175

DISHES OF INDIA 1510A Bellview Blvd. 703-660-6085

DIYA 218 North Lee, 2nd Floor 703-706-5338

NAMASTE 1504 King St. 703-970-0615

MEXICAN LATIN SOUTHWESTERN

CASA TEQUILA 1701 Duke 703-518-5312

CHOP SHOP TACO 1008 Madison Street 571-970-6438

DON TACO TEQUILA BAR 808 King St. 703-988-3144

LOS CUATES 1116 King Street 703-548-2918

LOS TIOS GRILL 2615 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-299-9290

LOS TOLTECOS 4111 Duke St. 703-823-1167

TAQUERIA POBLANO 2400-B Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-548-TACO (8226)

TEQUILA & TACO 540 John Carlyle Street 703-721-3203

URBANO 116 116 King Street 571-970-5148

Maison Breizh at Bastille –MoreThanaCrêpeShop

“Maison Breizh is really about bringing a more every day, coastal side of French cuisine to Alexandria — something rooted in craftsmanship and tradition, but still relaxed and approachable.”-Chef

Michelle Poteaux

Located inside one of the DMV’s popular French eateries, Bastille Brasserie & Bar, Maison Breizh opened its “door” in early June at 1205 Pendleton Avenue in the Parker Gray District in Alexandria. We are still trying to get a handle on the pronunciation of “Breizh” even though the Chef told us more than once while we were dining. The best we came up with is it rhymes with “beige” only with a “br” at the beginning.

This Brittany-inspired galetteriecrêperie from Michelle Poteaux is located literally inside Bastille Brasserie & Bar. Since Bastille isn’t open for lunch, they utilize the back dining room and patio for customer seating. The room décor has been revamped and taken on a nice casual vibe.

When asked what prompted the Poteaux’s to launch this new venture, Chef Michelle was very forthcoming.

“After nearly twenty years of Bastille Brasserie & Bar, I found myself wanting to create something more casual, more regionally focused, and more reflective of the everyday French dining culture that often gets overlooked here in the DMV. That idea became Maison Breizh at Bastille.

This concept is personal for me. My first real introduction to galettes came through Christophe’s family

in Cherbourg, Normandy, where I experienced how simple, comforting, and deeply rooted in place this style of food could be. Years later, I traveled to Saint-Malo, France, and completed an intensive hands-on program at Atelier de la Crêpe, focused on traditional galette and crêpe production, Brittany cider, technique, and regional culinary culture,” Chef Michelle tells us. She continues, “While many Americans think of crêpes as sweet or dessertfocused, Brittany’s galette culture is centered around savory buckwheat crêpes meant for everyday dining. The menu at Maison Breizh will focus on traditional buckwheat galettes, crêpes, French cider, wine, and Breton-inspired dishes approached through a chef-driven lens.

For me, Maison Breizh is a natural extension of what Bastille has always

tried to do: make French cuisine feel approachable without losing the craft behind it. Bastille helped challenge the idea that French dining needed to feel formal or intimidating. Maison Breizh continues that philosophy in a more relaxed, lunch-focused format.

I believe Alexandria — and the broader DMV dining scene — is ready for more nuanced regional French food beyond the usual stereotypes. Brittany has an incredible culinary identity, and Maison Breizh is my way of bringing that spirit here in a way that feels fresh, honest, and welcoming.”

In our opinion, she was spot-on with her idea.We had lunch in mid-June accompanied by one of our longtime contributing writers, Sarah Becker, to commemorate her 30th year of penning our history column. It was a beautiful day so patio seating was in order.

I am a huge fan of crêpes and gallettes. Traditionally, a crêpe is made with wheat flour and is usually served with sweet fillings and a gallette is made with buckwheat flour and has savory fillings. I lean toward the gallettes because I feel like the buckwheat flour is a healthier option and I am a bigger fan of savory flavors. However, at Breizh, you can order a gallette with sweet fillings and vice versa with the crêpes, which is what I did on our visit.

The menu is straight forward with selections for every taste profile. The collage pictured with this column gives you a very good idea of what you can expect. In addition to the regular menu items, there are daily specials as well.

We ordered a bottle of a nice light white wine for the table and I ordered a “bowl” of traditional French cider to enjoy while we made our luncheon choices. Yes, you read that right. The cider is served in a small bowl. I had the 8-ounce Aval Blanc draft that is billed as “Bright, Juicy, Green Apple & Fresh Pear notes lead to a Round & Creamy finish, perfectly complementing our Brittany cuisine.” It didn’t disappoint. A nice selection of cider, wine and beer are offered - spirits are not.

For lunch, Bob opted for the La Bretonne gallette – house-made crumbled Breton sausage, paired with a delightful apple-onion compote, cider mustard, and a petite salade. Sarah chose to try the Jambon, one of the Maison Rolls which are French wraps made with a buckwheat galette, rolled & cut and served with Earth & Eats petite greens. The Jambon consists of Parisian ham, gruyère, and fresh lettuce, tomato confit and Dijonnaise and is served cold. My choice was the Galette Saisonnière aka of the season. It was filled with amazing traditional ratatouille. All three choices were big time hits.

We ended our meals with three of the crêpes: the Miel Citron - lemon-honey syrup and confit lemon; the Myrtille (I ordered this on the buckwheat gallette) - wild blueberry compote, lemon drizzle topped with toasted almonds and the Crêpe Saisonnière – I can’t recall what each of the ingredients was but fresh strawberries were the base. All three of them are well worth ordering again or even taking home. Bob treated himself to a cappuccino as well.

In addition to the crêpes and gallettes, they have Croustillants –house-made dips and spreads served with our buckwheat crisps - and a selection of hors d’oeuvres including oysters on the half shell and a shrimp salad.

We thoroughly enjoyed our experience and have recommended it to several people over these last few weeks and it appears to be off to a great start!

Remember that you enter the patio from Pendleton Street and not through the front door! Look for the blue sign!

Wednesday–Saturday, 11:30am–2:30pm

Maison Breizh at Bastille 1205 Pendleton Street Maisonbreizhva.com

FB and Insta maisonbreizhva

JUDY EICHNER

Festive Coolers for the Hot Weather

While traveling in Puerto Rico and Jamaica, several years ago we were invited to several outdoor barbecues and to our delight, we discovered some different drinks than those that are normally served at a barbecue.

You can make any summertime gathering festive with this assortment of cool, refreshing party beverages. You will find both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks below.

Orange-Mint Tea

2 cups boiling water

2 tea bags

¼ cup fresh mint leaves

2 tablespoons sugar

1 quart orange juice

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

In a large pitcher, place boiling water, tea bags, mint leaves and sugar; let stand 10 minutes. Remove the tea bags, then stir in the orange and lemon juices. Refrigerate until cold. Before serving, strain to remove mint leaves. This makes about 6 8-ounce servings.

Peach Champagne Punch

1 can (16 oz) sliced peaches in light syrup, chilled

1 pint strawberries

1 cup peach-flavored brandy, chilled

1 bottle (2 liter) lemon-lime soda, chilled

2 bottles (each 750 ml) champagne, chilled

Drain peaches; reserve syrup. Place peach slices and strawberries in two ice-cube trays; fill with water; freeze until firm. Just before serving, in large punch bowl, combine reserved peach syrup, brandy, soda and champagne; stir. Add fruit ice cubes to punch. Makes about 32 4-ounce servings.

Champagne Fruit Punch

7 cups chilled orange juice

½ lb. seedless grapes

1 sliced orange

1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved, if large

1 bottle (48 oz) chilled Hawaiian guava drink

1 bottle (750 ml) chilled, dry champagne

Fresh Mint

The day before – Pour 2 cups of the orange juice mixture into a 3 cup ring mold. Freeze mold for about 3 hours, or until firm. Arrange grapes, orange slices and strawberries around the top of the mold. Fill mold with 1 cup of orange juice and freeze overnight.

In a 6-quart punch bowl, combine the remaining 4 cups orange juice and the guava drink. Just before serving, stir in the champagne. Unmold the ice ring. Float fruit side up on punch. Garnish with mint. Makes about 24 4-ounce servings.

Citrus Cranberry Cooler

2 cups chilled cranberry juice

2 cups chilled grapefruit juice

½ cup chilled seltzer

In a pitcher combine all ingredients. Serve over ice in chilled glasses. Makes about 4 10-ounce servings.

Publishers Note: These recipes were provided to us by Judy Eichner when she was penning the Cooking Corner column in 2012. She has since passed away, however, we think these refreshing concoctions are worth a reprint.

Budweiser, Bell Bottom Jeans, Disco & Seagram’s 7

This year marks the 250 th anniversary of American independence from England, a milestone we will always remember. But some of us still remember the 200th anniversary, the bicentennial, in1976.

Yes, my Millennial and Gen Z readers, we are still alive. And we’re doing quite well, thank you. And a lot of us were your age or even younger when that banner year came around. But life was different then. I don’t mean to imply that it was different in a bad way, it wasn’t. It was simpler in some ways, and harder in others. Our definitions of quality weren’t what they are today. It was a different time, a different America.

The price of gas was 59 cents in 1976. And I remember my father complaining about it at the pump.

“How could they charge more than 50 cents?! Price gouging SOBs!”

His outrage was understandable if you consider that the average household income was only $16,000 per year.

Ladies, your wardrobe would have consisted of bell bottom or flared jeans, halter tops, peasant blouses, wrap dresses, platform shoes or wedge sandals, large sunglasses, scarves, and chunky jewelry.

Gentlemen, yours would have been leisure suits (I remember the one my parents bought for me. It was light blue. I thought I was so hip.), wide collar shirts with brightly colored patterns or colors, platform shoes or boots, aviator sunglasses, and, if you were cool, a turtleneck under your sport coat.

The number one song that year was Rod Stewart’s “Tonight’s The Night (Gonna Be Alright)”, even though disco music ruled at the time. Songs like “Funky Town”, “Disco Lady ”, and “Get Up and Boogie ” would haunt us until 1979 when the Disco Era finally died at an anti-disco rally in Chicago that turned into a riot. Soft Rock was also big, much of it is now called Yacht Rock. But back then, it had nothing to do with yachts. The music scene of the mid-seventies was not one of our best. But there was a musical light at the end of the tunnel; The Ramones released their selftitled first album that year.

Only 15% of Americans had cable, so you probably only had 4 channels to choose from, and one was PBS. Your phone was hanging on a wall, not sitting in your pocket. And all it did was make calls. Plus, the family shared the phone line, so if your sister was on it all night, you missed calls.

Sounds terrible? Well, it wasn’t. The advent of technology has changed us and made life much more convenient in many ways. But you have to remember; you can’t miss what you never had. People in 1976 would have laughed if you mentioned a phone that sat in your pocket, took pictures, and was connected to the entire world. And as my father once said, “Why the hell do we need 20 television channels?” Yep, that was early cable, 20 channels. “The whole family will just watch TV all day!”

He wasn’t far off on that remark. Screen time is a current problem.

But Tim, you might ask, what about beer, whiskey, and cigars? What would I be drinking and smoking?

Oh, you’re going to love this.

If you missed your favorite television show, like “All in the Family ” or “Charlies Angels ”, you missed it forever. There was no streaming or DVR. The VCR (Video Cassette Recorder) wouldn’t hit the American market until the next year.

The World War II generation was still a large part of the population at the time. Having survived the war, and the Great Depression before that, they were quite frugal. High end beers, liquor, or wines were considered a waste of money. Their children, the Baby Boomers, were young adults, many just starting families. So, the frugality would linger nationally until the mid-1980s. When it comes to beer, you probably would have been drinking Budweiser, Miller High Life “The Champagne of Beers”, Miller Light, which was a new brand and growing rapidly, or Schlitz , which was still Budweiser’s biggest competitor. Let’s pause for a moment of silence. Schlitz went out of business a few weeks ago. It was an American classic. There were some local breweries, but they didn’t produce a variety of styles. In the Pittsburgh area, we had beers like Hamms, Rolling Rock, Old German, Stroh’s, and Iron City. They were all bitter American lagers, just like Schiltz. That was the American beer style at the time.

In 1976, America was just not making beer that we would have considered “good” today. Good beers back then came from other countries. The import beer movement, the predecessor to the craft beer trend, was in its infancy in 1976. Heineken, Becks, Molson, Bass, and

Guiness were slowly gaining in popularity. But lagged far behind American domestic beers.

Tim’s Whiskey and Cigar Recommendations

Makers Mark Cask Strength “Made for the Brave” Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Bottled directly from the barrel, this bourbon is not as intense as one might think. My technique with cask-strength whiskeys is to use a big cube and let it melt for about ten minutes. This brings out flavor while lessoning the heat. The nose here gives caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and honey, with hints of cinnamon, baked apples, and brown sugar. On the palate, layers of toffee, butterscotch, wheat, and vanilla emerge before the notes of oak, black pepper, and baking spices come through. This bourbon is a bold and wonderful expression that showcases the distillery’s signature wheated mash bill. The finish is long and flavorful, with caramel, oak, and spice flavors. It’s quite affordable at around $50 a bottle. But remember, it’s 110.5 Proof. So, drink it slowly and easily.

Camacho Broadleaf

Camacho makes affordable, flavorful cigars, and its consistency is one reason it remains one of my favorite brands. This medium-to-full-bodied cigar opens with notes of dark chocolate, espresso, earth, and black pepper, followed by hints of leather and sweetness. As you get into the smoke, flavors of cocoa, roasted coffee, and oak, become more pronounced. It has a long and flavorful finish. This cigar will blend perfectly with the Maker’s Mark Cask Strength bourbon in your hand. And at around $11 a stick, it doesn’t break the bank. Enjoy.

This cigar, and many other fine cigars, are available at John Crouch Tobacconist at 215 King St. in Old Town Alexandria. Mention this article and get 10% off the purchase of this month’s recommended cigar.

The white spirits were all the rage at that time. Vodka, gin, or rum were the preferred choices. If you did drink whiskey, you would probably have chosen Canadian blended whiskeys; Seagram’s Seven, Seagram’s VO, Canadian Club, or Crown Royal if you were classy, or pretentious. The single malt scotch era was just starting. And bourbon was dwelling in the pit of despair. It was considered your father’s or grandfather’s whiskey. The bourbon industry would not be saved until 1984, with the release of Blanton’s, the first single barrel bourbon on the market.

Riuniti was considered to be a good wine back then. Riuniti On Ice is Nice! Try swallowing that fact.

Cigarettes were still very much in fashion in 1976; 36% of the population smoked them, compared to 10% today. People still lit up at the breakfast table after eating. Your cigar, if you dared to smoke one, would have been machine rolled and made with mostly American tobacco. So, it smelled horrible and wasn’t welcome in most social situations. You would have bought it in the local grocery or convenience store from the cigarette rack. Dutch Master, White Owl, Tiparillo, and Swisher Sweets were big sellers. However, a growing group of enthusiasts sought out premium hand-rolled cigars from Cuba, Jamaica, Honduras, and the Canary Islands. Monte Cristo, Partagas, and H. Upmann were beginning to be known and cherished.

The lesson here is simple; cherish the things you enjoy today. America’s palate has changed over the last fifty years, and mostly for the better. Great wine, fine cigars, masterfully brewed beer, and terrific whiskeys are commonplace now. So don’t take them for granted. Think about how good we have it today when you’re relaxing with one of your favorites in your hand. And thank the past generations for setting us on the path that got us here. They deserve it.

Cheers to you, America! Happy Birthday!

About the Author: Timothy Long is an educator, writer, consultant, and experienced restaurant operator. Email: tlong@ belmarinnovations.com. Instagram and Twitter: @wvutimmy. Blog: What is that fly doing in my soup? http://whatflyinmysoup.com

Barboursville Vineyards

Trailblazing Winery

Barboursville Vineyards recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. It’s poetic that the birth date of arguably Virginia’s most prestigious estate winery is shared with America’s most celebrated patron of wine, Thomas Jefferson.

CEO and Head Winemaker Luca Paschina says this is a coincidence. I’d like to think it’s fate that these legacies are intertwined.

Jefferson is famous not only for his love of wine, but his attempts to grow European grapes at his home at Monticello (located only 20 miles from Barboursville’s own vines). Those efforts never came to fruition, but he famously predicted, “We could, in the United States make as great a variety of wines as are made in Europe: not exactly of the same kinds, but doubtless as good."

This history was not lost on Gianni Zonin, president of one of Italy’s most prominent wine dynasties. While scouting for potential locations to expand, he and his friend Gabriele Rausse discovered a pastoral farm that was once the estate of James Barbour, a friend and political ally of Jefferson. When Gianni told Gabriele of his plan to grow vitis vinifera, the grapevine species most commonly associated with fine wine but one with (at the time) a poor track record along the East Coast, Gabriele’s response reportedly was, “My God, he’s gone insane.”

Nevertheless, Gianni persisted, no doubt inspired by the idea of continuing Jefferson’s legacy. Data that showed the area had a terroir reminiscent of central Italy only solidified his dedication. He purchased what is now Barboursville Vineyards on April 13th, 1976. Jefferson’s legacy is intertwined with Barboursville’s in other ways as well. Not far from the tasting room are the ruins of the Barbour mansion, which Jefferson designed featuring a distinctive octagonal drawing room.

After learning how Jefferson reportedly claimed this shape symbolized “perfection and balance”, Gabriele’s eventual successor Luca adopted it as the name of Barboursville’s signature wine – Octagon.

Celebrates 50

Years

Shepherding Virginia Wine Into The Modern Era

Barboursville’s founding marks the beginning of the modern era of the Virginia wine industry. Yet at the time, its success was far from assured.

As Luca explained , “Keep in mind that in the ‘70s, the favorite (local) beverages at the time were either iced tea or bourbon. Wine was not yet as much engrained in the culture.”

Being trailblazers meant unforeseen challenges were inevitable. Many of Barboursville’s first vines had to be removed, as the plants Gabriele initially selected didn’t fare well because of poor plant material.

Even so, the viticultural experience the Barboursville team brought from Italy allowed them to challenge some of the nascent wine industry’s prevailing norms.

One example was how Gabriele decided to plow his vineyard more deeply than local wisdom suggested. He reasoned having his roots access the nutrient-deficient soils underneath the richer topsoil would force his vines to struggle, producing better quality grapes. Practices like this proved crucial in demonstrating vinifera could successfully grow in Virginia.

Over time, Barboursville did more than just establish itself as a local industry leader. It became, in the words of Dave McIntyre (one of my favorite East Coastbased wine writers), Virginia’s answer to France’s iconic “First Growth” Châteaux.

For those not familiar with that term, First Growth estates are the most esteemed and historic wineries in Bordeaux. Their wines are also the benchmark by which the rest of Bordeaux, if not the world, is rated.

The feedback Barboursville receives from wine critics backs this assertion.

Since the Virginia Governor’s Cup wine competition was reformatted in 2012, Barboursville’s wines have consistently been among the event’s top scorers, earning 19 Case entries and 3 overall Cup wins (the most of any winery in both categories).

Wine magazines have also praised Barboursville, with Decanter crowning the 2017 Octagon as one of their 50 toprated wines of America for 2025 and 20 top-rated Merlots worldwide (the only Virginia wine on either list).

Entering a Time of Transition

This March, Barboursville was sold to a group of private investors, marking the first change of ownership since the Zonins founded the property.

According to the news release, Luca stated, “Our investor group, with no other wine industry interests, fully supports Barboursville’s mission to craft world class wines and provide outstanding hospitality, while preserving the grounds of the historic vineyard estate and elevating the prestige of Virginia wines nationally and internationally.”

The sale was a poorly kept secret for months, and there is still no shortage of gossip regarding how this change will impact Barboursville’s future. This

transition is especially impactful given that a generational shift is reshaping perceptions how alcohol is marketed and enjoyed.

Fortunately, Luca is promising stability. During Barboursville’s 50th anniversary celebration, he provided assurances that Barboursville’s winemaking and viticultural team would remain in place, and so far no other major changes have been announced.

Local industry observers including McIntyre and Frank Morgan, Director of Judging for the Virginia Governor’s Cup, have noted that keeping Luca in place is a hopeful sign. Should these owners continue Luca’s focus on Barboursville’s vineyards and hospitality, it will only improve its already world-class image.

About the Author: Matthew Fitzsimmons is a blogger who has visited nearly every winery in Virginia – most of them twice. Track his progress at https:// winetrailsandwanderlust.com/.

Ihave heard this statement a few times over my 45 years in the industry. Sometimes the comment comes from a 50-year-old who has spent their career behind a desk yearning for a job where they can see the physical progress of their efforts. My standard response, “Are you sure you want this? Keep it as a hobby and do not give up the day job.” However, if they keep coming back to me with questions and enthusiasm, I will help them get into this industry in a way that will make sense for them and their family.

I said I wanted to do that when I worked at Buena Vista Winery. I was in California sitting in on a consulting visit from Andre Tchellichef and he was coaching our winemaker on using new and old techniques to make a certain wine. He was the teacher of a generation of winemakers in Napa and Sonoma, and I was lucky enough to have a winemaker boss who learned from him. I guess in many ways I do what he did by helping others find quality and success in this industry. It has been a long and challenging road.

When I am doing a farm tour with grade school kids on my golf cart, most say they want to do what I do. But my answer is, “Garden, cook, study, build

things, fix things and spend time outside. See me when you are in middle school!” These kids have opportunities through the 4-H program, scouting and school gardens to build the basics for careers in agriculture, land stewardship and the trades. In 2008 I started a program called The New Ag School to introduce young folks to the skilled workers, leaders, artisans and mentors who work with our rural lands. By exposing these kids to many careers and people they do not see in school, we hope that some of these students say, “Hey, how can I learn to do what you do?” With agriculture, there are so many different skills needed, you could specialize in growing grapes but still know how to raise chickens and fix your tractor.

The New Ag School has partnered up with Loudoun County Public Schools and the Loudoun Education Foundation to offer the Think Outside program again this summer. This program includes equine, culinary arts, mechanics, horticulture, drone use, apiary, viticulture, mentoring, composting, general agriculture and so much more. July 27-31 is our next camp this summer. If you have a Loudoun teenage student that might be interested, check us out at Newagschool.org. \

As these young folks find different career paths early, they will hopefully find better success and happiness. Remember, at some point we all need to hand off the ball so we can enjoy a bit more wine!

About the Author: Farmer, winemaker, entrepreneur, educator, and leader, Doug Fabbioli has been accelerating the growth and quality of Virginia’s wine industry since 1997. With his wife Colleen, Doug is the owner/operator of Fabbioli Cellars in Leesburg, VA. He is the founder and director of The New Ag School, which focuses on teaching the next generation of farmers and agriculture-related leaders. No wonder they call Doug Fabbioli the Godfather of DC's Wine Country.

THURSDAY THROUGH MONDAY 11-5

The Weight Plate Horseshoe

Welcome back to another edition of From the Trainer! Hope everyone has enjoyed the summer so far with plenty of sunshine, heat, and humidity on the way. July has a couple of important dates to note. The first is the celebration of our nation’s 250 th Independence from Great Britain. The next day is my father’s birthday!

There are plenty of reasons to celebrate this month which generally involve burgers, brats, and beer. Keep your health & fitness goals in mind while enjoying those summer BBQ’s. Eat and drink in moderation. Take advantage of all the local farmers’ markets by purchasing the fresh fruit and vegetables while supporting the area farmers as well as your health! My

family farms in Wyoming and I know they appreciate when people support and recognize all the hard working families that bring food to your table.

With that said, I’ll move on to another exercise that can help you stay fit. I call it the Weight Plate Horseshoe. It targets the shoulders and upper trapezius muscles. I really enjoy this exercise because it challenges your balance, abdominal strength, and provides resistance from multiple directions. Many variations of this exercise exist, but I’ll describe just one version. Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart holding a weight plate at one side with your arms straight-(Figure 1). I suggest using a

10lb plate for women and a 25lb plate for men. Using your shoulders to lift, bring the plate up and out to the side of your body while keeping the arms straight-Figure 2. Continue to rotate the weight above your head, and then slowly let it down on the opposite side in the same fashion-Figure 3. A few things to remember during the exercise: Control the weight at all times. Avoid twisting your spine. Contract the abdominals while lifting, this helps stabilize the torso and isolates the shoulders better.

At this point, you’re only halfway through the exercise. Rotate the weight plate in the opposite direction to complete the “horseshoe”. This counts as only one repetition. Try one

set of 8-10 reps before progressing to more sets and reps. You can add this exercise to any workout for variation. If you like more of a challenge, stand on top of a Bosu Balance Trainer to involve more of the legs. Enjoy the Weight Plate Horseshoe along with all the other fun summertime activities this month!

About the Author: Unverzagt holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Wellness Management from Black Hills State University. He is a certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength & Conditioning Association and a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

TExercising in the Heat:

How to safely work out in hot conditions

he dog days of summer are upon us, and with the warm weather and longer days we can all have a chance to get outdoors and enjoy some summer activities. Whether you are participating in sports or other physical activities during these hot months, it is important to keep in mind the potential risks that come with exercising in the heat. As long as you understand how to safely work out in the heat, there is no reason not to take advantage of what summer has to offer.

There are many factors that contribute to how our bodies adjust in the heat. Air temperature and humidity play a major role in the body’s ability to regulate itself. Let’s say you’re running in 80-degree heat and the humidity is low. Your body will be able to regulate temperature easily because the environment is cooler than your body temperature—which is typically 98.6 degrees. Up the humidity to 95 percent, and your shirt is sticking to your body because the sweat is no longer evaporating.

When the temperature outside exceeds our internal temperature, the body loses its only natural defense against overheating, which is the ability to sweat. The evaporation of sweat from the skin allows the body to cool down. However, when the humidity level is too high, there is less evaporation and therefore less cooling. This combination of high humidity and high temperature can be dangerous if a person is exposed for too long without proper hydration. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two dangerous side effects that can happen when the body can no longer handle the heat.

Signs of heat exhaustion include general fatigue, weakness, nausea, dizziness, muscle cramps, and an increase in body temperature. A body temperature above 104, an inability to sweat, acute respiratory distress, and loss of consciousness can be signs of heat stroke, which is more severe and can lead to death if not treated immediately.

This does not mean that you should avoid going outside to have a great summer workout. Just be aware of the risks and take steps to prevent overheating and dehydration. Here are some tips for exercising in the heat. By following these guidelines, you will be able to safely exercise outdoors during the hot months:

o Keep hydrated! It is very important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Once you start to feel thirsty you are already dehydrated. Try to stick to non-caffeinated beverages (preferably water) or some type of sports drink. To stay properly hydrated during exercise, drink at least one cup of water 15 minutes prior to the beginning of exercise, and a gulp or two every 15 minutes during the workout.

o Eat regularly. It is important to keep eating during the day. Try to get five small meals a day. For many people, the heat decreases appetite, but your body still needs the energy. Fruits and vegetables are great for energy and will also help with some hydration.

o Wear loose-fitting clothing. Try to find clothes that are light and breathable. The best type of clothing to wear is something that is designed to wick sweat away from the body.

o Wear sunscreen. Even if you are out early in the morning, if you are exposed to the sun, it can give you a burn. Sunburns can hinder the body’s ability to cool itself.

o Workout at times of the day that are cooler and stick to familiar activities. The best times to work out are in the early mornings before the sun has a chance to warm up, or in the late afternoon when it starts to cool down. Try to avoid exercising during the hottest parts of the day (usually between 10am and 4pm).

o Warming up before exercise and cooling down after is very important Give your body a chance to adjust to the outside temperature before beginning your activity. Five minutes of walking or a light jog is a good way to prepare you for a workout. When you are done with the workout be sure to cool down. An example of a cool down would be walking for five or ten minutes to allow your heart rate to return to normal. Avoid extreme temperature changes. Never go right from a hot sweaty workout into cold air conditioning.

Don’t forget that we’re living in a city—we don’t have the luxury of running on unpaved country roads—the majority of the trails we enjoy are paved—which radiate heat—greatly increasing the heat from the environment.

Beauty Oils In the Summer? You Bet!

Now that we’re in the thick of the humid, muggy summer months, each of us is searching for a way to beat the heat when it comes to our beauty routines. Strong perfumes have been replaced with light body mists and layers of heavy foundation with a light dusting of powder or bronzer. But…what about our moisturizing routines? The idea of slathering your body with a thick, heavy-duty body butter or cream lotion seems almost suffocating in summer. I am a religious user of cocoa butter formulas during the winter for their rich moisturizing properties and luxe smell, but in the dog days of summer, the same lotion leaves me feeling sticky and weighed down, sweating it all off in a matter of minutes.

Enter oil beauty products. If you’re feeling skeptical, you’re not alone. I, too, found the idea of oil counterintuitive, but once familiar with the non-breakout-causing, skin illuminating benefits that various oil products offer, I’m a believer. Oils work differently, actually helping your own skin balance its natural oil production as well as hydrating face, body, and hair. And it’s universal. Oils aren’t just for those with dry skin or fried, split ends—they’re great for treating acne-prone skin.

The surprises continue: not all oils are created equal. Dry skin needs a product that will hydrate all day, while those with oilier skin types should look for a product that has a lightweight consistency. The best thing about oil is the fact that you can tailor it to your skin’s individual needs. Once you know which product is best for you, expect it to go to work right away. Trust me, the first time I used almond oil after a shower I felt like a piece of bacon, slipping and sliding all over

the bathroom floor. But don’t feel tempted to wipe it all off; it absorbs on its own quickly and the subtle almond scent is lovely. Whether you’re a straight-up health food store kinda gal; find what you need in the beauty aisle; or simply scour your kitchen cabinets for what you need, read on to break down which oil-based products are right for you.

If your skin is combination, like most, try Whole Foods Virgin Coconut Oil. Originally used as a cooking staple, coconut oil is also an incredible facial moisturizer, body lotion, and hair repair agent (just apply a small amount to dry, split ends). Pick some up at your local Whole Foods or any health food store, it’s that simple!

For dry skin, oil is often a lifesaver. Try Dr. Haushka Rose Body Oil. This girly smelling oil, with its lightweight consistency, sinks right into skin while calming irritation and offering a sexy subtle sheen on your limbs that just screams St. Tropez.

If you’re like me and your complexion and/or T-zone is on the oily side, it seems counterintuitive to use an oil cleanser. Come on, washing away oil… with oil? However, Shu Uemura Fresh Pore Clarifying Gentle Cleansing Oil is a Japanese beauty classic that actually targets oily skin. The cleanser works by removing pore-clogging dirt and helping to regulate your own skin’s natural oils. You’ll see clearer skin plus a calming of those horrendous midday oil slicks. It is on the pricey side!

Oils and hair go hand in hand and provide a wealth of beauty benefits that will make you a believer. Moroccan Argan oil in its purest form is a lifesaver for not only your locks, but for scars, nails, skin,

face, wrinkles, and fine lines. This oil is a superior source of antioxidants, vitamin E, and moisture as it nourishes and protects skin and hair from the environment. These organic ingredients prevent dehydration, inflammation, hyperpigmentation, and sebum production. It is your answer to naturally healthy, youthful, radiant, clear skin and hair.

My sister got me in on the Argan oil secret, and she swears by it for reversing hair damage. If your hair is feeling fried (too much sun, chlorine or, let’s be honest, too much heat/color damage), try one of the many products with Argan oil. But be on the lookout for frauds! Drug store Argan oil is most likely diluted, so seek out the real deal at health food stores. The pure stuff will last forever, so it’s worth the price! My sister says she doesn’t need more than four drops for her medium/long hair, but keep the oil away from bangs or roots to avoid that Elvis look. Argan oil in its pure form penetrates the hair shaft to seal split ends and deliver intense moisture to each layer of the hair strand. All hair types will instantly look and feel healthier, silkier, and shinier.

If you find your hair has plenty of oil on its own without any help from products, again, suspend logic and opt for an oil-based shampoo. Heritage Store Olive Oil Shampoo gently removes dirt and debris but, unlike most shampoos out there, these products leave the scalp’s natural oils instead of stripping them away with harsh sulfates. Other shampoos make your scalp so squeaky clean that it forces oil glands into overdrive, causing increased oil production.

Have I blown your minds yet about oil?

Just Batty for Gardens

GHow does my garden grow?

With silver bells and cockle shells

...And fertilizer, you idiot!

ardens are a work in progress, at least mine is. There is no end to what needs to be done, what could have been done better etc. etc. The point is to get outside and spend a little time with your hands in the earth, if the seeds you plant sprout and the flowers grow and bloom great! If not so what? Have fun, listen to the birds sing and the bee’s buzz, watch the spiders weaving their webs and the ants marching along and feel the sun on your back. Let yourself drift off into a reverie, it will be good for your soul.

Don’t forget your houseplants. By now they are putting on new growth but it isn’t too late to repot and start your summer fertilizer program. Make it easy on yourself, set a table up outside and gather all the stuff you need, new pots, fresh potting soil, soil amendments etc. Then get your leafy house companions and bring them outside where you won’t have to worry about getting dirt and dead leaves all over the place. Now take a good look at them, prune them if they look straggly, check for bugs, remove dead leaves and branches. Replant into a pot one size larger using fresh new potting soil. If they don’t need to be repotted, I usually scrape about an inch or so of soil off the top and add some fresh new stuff. The nutrients in potting

soil are used up pretty fast by the plants and they will appreciate the fresh soil and nutrients. If you really want to thrill them you can add a little bat guano to each plant.

Bat and seabird guano is really cool stuff. The word guano is Quichua, an Incan language, which means "droppings of seabirds". For centuries the Inca gathered the stuff on Islands and rocks off the coast of Peru. It was so highly valued as a fertilizer that the gathering areas were protected and only especially chosen people could do the gathering. Violation of these laws was punished by death!

American agriculture during the 1800’s became so addicted to the stuff that a law was passed in congress on August 8, 1856. This bill set up protection to be given to any US citizen who may discover guano. Any US citizen was allowed to take possession and occupy any Island, rock or key where guano was found. The only stipulation was that the guano could only be sold in the US to US citizens.

Today the gathering of guano, especially that of bats, is highly regulated to provide protection for the bats. There is a cave in Texas, the Bracken Cave, where the largest known colony of bats in the world live. Scientists estimate that 20 million

Mexican free tail bats use the cave as their summer home. Bat Conservation International holds the rights to harvesting the “gold” from the cave.

In November when the bats have headed south for the winter, they go in with huge vacuum trucks and tidy the cave for the returning bats. On average they suck up 50 tons of guano each year. Let’s see 20 million bats, 50 tons of droppings… well you do the math!

Bat guano is a highly touted organic fertilizer containing billions of live bacteria that help fight fungus. There are also millions of microbes that can help in bioremediation, which means they eat up toxic chemicals in the soil and 13 trace elements. The actual chemical makeup varies depending on the type of guano and whom it comes from, and you thought guano was guano. So, check labels for specific N-P-K info.

You can contact Bat Conservation International at 1-800-538-BATS or online at batcon.org.

Publishers Note: This article is printed with permission. Portions have been edited in the interest of space. To read Ms. Jacinto's complete feature and more information about growing and feeding other botanicals log on to botanical.com.

Thinking About Getting a Second Kitty?

How to Help a New Cat and a Resident Feline Adjust

Our eyes met. I knew. It was meant to be. My husband—he was there too—agreed.

I don’t believe in love at first sight—not with humans. But pets? Yes. Whisky Ruth was ours. But this article isn’t about the moment you say “yes” to a new kitty (I’ve written about that before), it’s about what happens next. Specifically, it’s about bringing a new cat into a family with a resident feline. The first step is isolation: A separate room gives the new cat a sense of safety, and lets the resident adjust to the new sibling. Isolation isn’t easy, but it’s straightforward. Over a week or two, with the humans visiting both, you introduce the sibling’s sense-by-sense. But what happens next? How do you help the resident and new cat adjust? How do you make a space into a home? I’ll share my stories and some words from experts.

The First Second Cat

Sweet Potato Bailey Burns (or “SPBB” to save keystrokes) came home in August 2017. Smoky Tiggs Burns (RIP) hadn’t asked for a sister. But I’d known for years that we WOULD have a cat named Sweet Potato. The moment we met “Bailey” at King Street Cats, Sweet Potato was found. Sweet Potato wasn’t good at isolation. She cried.

Impressively. Our visits to her room aside, she “sang” nonstop. And maybe (definitely) it encouraged us to start the introduction a bit early. After a scent exchange, we used a baby gate so they could see each other while being kept separate. Or so we hoped. We quickly learned that “shelterweight” SPBB could wiggle her way through the poles. We tried but, despite my husband’s creative engineering attempts, SPBB would not be confined.

We let her loose.

Spoiler: It was too soon.

A day or two into the fully two-cat home, we found Smoky huddled in the sunroom, a place Sweet Potato hadn’t yet explored. She was trembling and breathing fast. It truly looked like a panic attack. We immediately closed the sunroom door and held her. We’d made a promise to them both—adoption is forever—but, at that moment, Smoky came first. We backtracked. We returned SPBB to isolation. We tolerated the heartbreaking serenade. We gave Smoky extra love and probably more attention than she wanted. We offered treats on opposite sides of the door. Smoky was slow to take them. We let her take her time. And as she calmed down and showed interest, we started again.

SPBB wanted a best friend. Smoky never really wanted a sister. They never curled up. But over time we noticed they were often in the same room and seemed to get comfort from each other. Like many humans, Smoky came to love her sister, even if she didn’t really LIKE her.

The Second Second Cat

Smoky passed in 2021—too soon, cancer sucks— and we’d toyed with the idea of another cat, but it wasn’t until we met Whisky Ruth in early 2026 that it was time. Two years old, likely in a shelter that whole time, she leaned all of her six pounds into our hands as we petted her through a cage. Whisky iso-ed in the master bedroom, immediately claiming a laundry basket under the bed. I slept in that room. My husband slept in another room with Sweet Potato. Whisky never cried, but Sweet P spent a lot of time at that door, trying to peer under but clearly unsure. We’d crack the door to let them see each other. Sometimes SPBB hissed. We waited. Release was gradual. Whisky was shy and skittish. But, she’s still part kitten and couldn’t resist a wand toy. We all visited. And then we separated. The door closed. SPBB got extra love from both of her people. Whisky sometimes slept on top of the bed

instead of underneath. After a week of visits, we stopped closing the door. Whisky was the one who tried to make friends this time. SPBB was unsure. But, one day, SPBB kissed Whisky’s tiny head. It hasn’t been linear. Whisky got sick. I’ll skip details, but it was serious—an infection crossed into her brain. She spent a night at the vet’s getting IV fluids and antibiotics. When she was home, she isolated herself. Our hearts ached. We realized how quickly she’d become family. Thankfully, she improved. As I write this, she’s still improving. She still likes to retreat, favoring a blue kitty tent in my office, but she’s does come out. And when she does, she’s ever-so-gradually working her way closer to her tolerant but still unsure sister. SPBB occasionally gives Whisky a (gentle!) swat, a warning she’s still adjusting. But, two months in, I think she’s falling in love too.

Some Thoughts and Where to Find Advice

So that’s my tale. My advice: Take it slow. Let them lead. Listen. And know they might not be best buds, but you can help them be family.

Also, do some reading. I think Jackson Galaxy’s “Eat, Play, Love” technique—essentially keeping both cats engaged in play in the same room for controlled periods of time until they develop a level of comfort—would have been a great option with Smoky and Sweet P.

Here are a few resources to get you started:

• American Humane Society, “Introducing Cats to Cats” (Feb. 20, 2026)

• Jackson Galaxy, “The Dos and Don’ts of Introducing Cats” (accessed May 15, 2026).

PETS OF THE MONTH

4101 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA

703-746-4774

alexandriaanimals.org

Mon-Tu-Th-Fri, 12-7 pm

Wed- Closed Sat & Sun, 12-5 pm

Seven is a two-year-old pup who is in the market for a new home. He is a 66-pound active dog with a zest for life and a love of people. Seven has lived with children in a previous home and seems to get along with other dogs. It has been reported that Seven has pretty good house manners. He can keep himself busy with a good chew toy for quite some time! He would do well on long walks or a hike in the woods. As long as he is with his person, Seven is a happy pup!

• Walter Sung, “How to Introduce Cats: Steps for a Successful Transition,” Chewy (Aug. 21, 2025).

About the Author: Cheryl Burns is a Senior Legal Editor and Subject Matter Expert with BARBRI, a legal education company. She lives in quiet Central Pennsylvania but is still a proud King Street Cats supporter (and not just because Sweet Potato Bailey Burns (f/k/a just Bailey) is an alum!).

Rufus is a handsome older guy in search of a soft place to land. This furry gentleman is 10 years young and weighs about 60 pounds. He's a social and outgoing dog who is always pleased to make new friends. He is ready to learn new skills for treats, chill with a good chew, and keep you company while you catch up on TV. Rufus is ready to make a wonderful companion. He is currently in a foster home and, thanks to a donor, his adoption fees have been paid.

Lil' Homie is ready to be your homie- need we say more! This handsome, goofy guy is 2-years-old and 72 pounds (so maybe more like a big homie now that we think about it). He is eager to meet new people and will become a lap dog, if you allow. He has lived with another dog and has enjoyed play dates with other dogs at the AWLA. If you're ready to get up close and personal with a new friendly furry friend, Lil' Homie is definitely your dude!

A New Season for Lefebre

Every pro athlete hopes to go out big. Much like a buzzer beater, walk off homer, or Hail Mary, a pro angler’s last cast comes with expectations of landing the big one.

Going out as the Major League Fishing Heavy Hitters Champion was unexpected by Erie, PA angler Dave Lefebre. His 25-year run was coming to an end after amassing $2.5 million in winnings, 6 major tournament trophies, and numerous top ten finishes. Lefebre failed to qualify for the 2026 MLF season, however, he did qualify for the much-anticipated Heavy Hitters event in Florida. This unique event pitted the top 32 anglers based on the total of their biggest fish from each of 7 tournaments in 2025. Lefebre departed the pro trails and competitive bass fishing in August 2025, leaving the wildcard event as his last hoorah.

This formerly formidable force struggled as big ones kept getting away. The last 5 years have been tough. Losing most of his longtime sponsors, Lefebre went back to using credit cards. He never embraced the catch all you can format and forward-facing technology. Tournament events were cut to only 7 per year, which Lefebre says made the sport a hobby. However, requalifications kept him hooked. The only luck he had was bad. Lefebre was ready to leave. “It’s been an emotional, spiritual battle for the last five years,” Lefebre said. “And it feels like God’s way of telling me I’m doing the right thing by getting out –going out this way.”

After his career had essentially ended with the 2025 season, Lefebre and his wife Anne made plans to open The 814 Grounds café in Erie. He remains committed to his Band 814, comprised of local church leaders who “…spread the message of Jesus” through music. Lefebre’s Erie Extreme TV fishing show will release new video for season 7. Arranging funding for these enterprises was challenging.

While it was difficult to step away from the pro fishing life, Anne knew they’d make something work. “I wanted to have him happy. Couldn’t go with him all the time. At this stage of our lives, we can enjoy ourselves.” Anne was a tournament wife, managing

sponsors, reserving hotels, making travel plans, and running a household while her husband spent months away from home.

While qualifying last August, Lefebre didn’t think about Heavy Hitters until a week before. He entered May’s tournament out of fishing shape. Even his boat hadn’t been tournament tested. His electronics weren’t in working order either. “Who cares,” says Lefebre. Things started going his way as he fished three straight days with clutch catches. He knew he was fishing the right areas, but still missed more fish than he caught, “Just stupid stuff, stuff you shouldn’t be able to overcome.” But each day Lefebre found himself barely making cuts to continue fishing, reaching the Championship final day. He entered every event with the intent and expectation to win.

Thoughts of his career were on his mind. “I’d like to go out on top; it’s what God has been pointing to for the past 5 years. It wasn’t bad luck; it was God telling me to move on.” It was harder and harder to keep going after having so many things go wrong. Just as everything had to fall into place for the café, band, and TV show to prosper, the same went for the Heavy Hitters Championship. And things did fall into place.

One fish on the final day made the difference and ended years of frustration as the 9.3-pound bass not only allowed Lefebre to pick up a $100,000 check for the win, but it doubled up as the biggest fish in the event and stuffed another $100,000 into his pockets. “Winning was a religious experience and provided financial wiggle room money since we had everything in play for the café.” Winning $200k now is making a huge impact.

One of the hardest things about potentially fishing his last pro event is not seeing his friends anymore. “I've made so many over the past 25 years, and though

many are other anglers, most are actually not.” He’s appreciative of the sponsors who stuck with him, Fishing Online, Lowrance Electronics, Power Pole, Bass Day Ever, and Solar Bat.

Dave and Anne’s son, Mitchell, was proud of his father enduring the long rocky road. His father put in the time, money, and travel, to do what he loved. “I knew that he had it in him. If there are 2 things I admire the most about my father, it’s his immense faith in what he believes in. Most of all, he’s shown me my entire life, that it’s possible to follow your dreams and do what you love doing.” Dave and Anne are chatting about possibly fishing a seniors tour, cherry picking tour sites, or maybe not.

Storybook ending to a great career? Just another chapter for the kid who grew up in a tough fishing industry, doing it the right way, bringing home trophies on his dashboard. Lefebre says for the first time in nearly a quarter century, after being on the road March through August, “It’s nice to be home to see the buds coming out on trees.”

About the Author: Capt. Steve Chaconas is a Potomac bass fishing guide & freelance writer. Potomac river reports: nationalbass.com. YouTube channel NationalBassGuide.

Summer patterns are heating up. Bass are seeking refuge in grass beds. For jigs and bladed jigs, black/ blue, craw, and white patterns will work. Use markers to paint blades black, except for white baits. Swim jigs with thinner weed guards, hooks, and lead

heads…come through grass and hook fish easier. Use 1420 pound test Gamma Edge fluorocarbon line and a 7’ rod.

Frog fishing, during the heat of the day. 50-pound test Gamma Torque braid and a 7’ rod helps haul fish out of grass.

Punch thick mats with 1 ounce tungsten weights, strong hooks, and small craw baits on 50-pound test Gamma Torque braid.

America The Beautiful

America—you are officially old! Two hundred and fifty years! Gosh—it seems like just yesterday, we were celebrating your 200th. I guess that also makes me officially old. Well done.

But seriously, you’re at the age when you need to start thinking about your future. Where do you want to be in another 250 years? Sadly, I won’t be here to assess, but you can’t put these big decisions off. Personally speaking, when you reach one of these monumental milestones, it’s good to pause, look at where you are, where you’ve been, and where you want to go. Are your current actions serving you? What are your goals? Have you achieved them? Is it time to change them and/or add new ones? Reflection is good, unless you’re a pool full of green slime.

You have a lot to be proud of—I mean, you did give us Jon Hamm after all. And Ryan Reynolds—I adore him. Oh, wait. That was Canada—he’s Canadian. Sorry. And then there’s that other Ryan. Ryan Gosling—who was spectacular in Project Hail Mary. What a gift. Amazeballs. Am I right? Oh wait. Sorry—that was Canada also. Well, thank you, Canada. Anyhow—Jon Hamm was an amazing feat, and I think I speak for all Americans when I say, we are VERY grateful and proud. I jest, but you really have given us so many great things beyond baseball, hot dogs, apple pie, and Chevrolet. As Americans, we can boast about the availability of squatty potties, chia pets, wearable blankets, Crocs, stuffed pizza crusts, fried Oreos. Gosh. Our cups runneth over, not to mention our bellies.

Ok—still jesting. Seriously. America is still a pretty good darn place to be. Proud to be an American. It is a privilege and an honor that none of us should take lightly—especially given the fact that soooo

many men and women serve to protect our freedom and independence. Every minute of every day. While we sleep. While we work. While we eat those fried Oreos. Even when we are on our squatty potties. For that, I am beyond grateful. And likely ignorant and clueless to what goes on behind the scenes to allow me the freedoms I take for granted every day.

Sure—there have been some growing pains—I don’t care how you slice it, aging is not without pain. Pain in the joints. Pain in the House and Senate. I get it—I’m turning 60 this year. Sometimes I realize I’m still doing the same ol’ stupid crap that I have been doing for the last few decades and it isn’t serving me well. I’ve had to look at friendships/relationships, my own actions and ask difficult questions—the most primary of which is WHAT THE EVERLOVIN’ TARNATION AM I DOING WITH MY LIFE? But other than that, I think things are on the right track, give or take 20 pounds and a few too many Amazon deliveries. If I’m being honest, America, this aging thing isn’t for sissies. I mean, don’t even get me started on menopause. Clearly, you are experiencing some of these mood shifts, brain fog, and hot flashes. One can only assume that is how we ended up with The Donald, but from one woman to another, you really need to pull it together. Maybe some hormone replacement therapy is in order STAT. If I’m being honest, this administration feels like one big chin hair that we are all being forced to stare at for four years. Pluck that thing already.

I know—it’s embarrassing and difficult to talk about, but if not now, when? Actually—menopause is a pretty hot topic (pardon the pun) these days. I mean, Melinda French Gates just donated $215 million so that men can stop referring to us as crazy, irrational, sensitive, and emotional. I’ll take that over a stupid computer system any day. Seriously,

Bill. What have you done for us lately? Women used to be tethered to their kitchens. Now thanks to you and the boys over at Apple we are tethered to our kitchens, kids, and computers. Well done, gentlemen.

America—we are truly all in this together with you. We want you to age gracefully, with dignity and class. Think HRH The Princess of Wales Kate vs. any Kardashian. Think Diane Keaton vs. Lauren Sanchez Bezos. Who doesn’t love a good turtleneck and some neutrals? Coastal grandma is IN, girl. Trust me, I tossed my mini-skirts and thongs when I tossed my feminine hygiene products. Sadly, they were replaced by leakproof panties and hair removal products, but own it. This is your era.

As we age, our outer beauty may fade in other’s eyes, but I think we need to trust our own eyes. Europe is a great example. In Italy for example, things are old. I mean really old. Architecture. Art. Monuments. Everything is ancient. And it has only gotten more beautiful with time. People are still flocking in droves to wander their cobblestone streets and marvel at their beauty. In comparison, we are mere babies, right? Two hundred and fifty is the new hundred. Sixty is the new forty by European standards and that works for me as long as you don’t make me learn the metric system.

As we move forward into our next decade, let’s focus on our inner beauty. Our majesty. Our grace. Let’s put our mistakes behind us and move forward with our heads held high and our chin hairs plucked. Happy 4th of July and Happy 250th, America! WE LOVE YOU!

About the Author: Lori is a local writer, painter and pet lover who loves to share her experiences and expertise with our readers. She has been penning a column for the OTC for over 25 years. Please follow Lori online on Medium for more missives like this.

Revolution on the Rocks!

Live Music, Sunset Skies & Great Waterfront Vibes

This is one of the reasons I still miss living in the Harbor even though it has been well over 5 years since I had to move back to the VA side of the river. Anyone who has been reading this column for very long knows how much I love the Wheel and the Carousel that grace the waterfront and how much I loved that I could walk to them both. I really got spoiled in those days. Today, I take advantage of the parking garages and always find a spot when I visit. Unfortunately, these concerts weren’t a “thing” until last summer so I haven’t been able to attend like I would if they had been. Still, I am looking forward to getting to a few more this season. Thanks to my friends at the wheel, the details are below:

The Capital Wheel and Flight Deck waterfront lounge & bar at National Harbor invites you to "Revolution on the Rocks," a free live music series taking place every Saturday evening through August 29th.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of a sunset over the Potomac River, Flight Deck, right next to The Capital Wheel, transforms into the ultimate weekend destination. Guests can enjoy:

• Spectacular Sunsets: Soak in stunning waterfront views as the day turns to night.

• Live Music: Soak up the sounds of summer at Flight Deck with Revolution on the Rocks live music series happening every Saturday from 7-9 p.m. through August 29.

• Great Drinks: Unwind with handcrafted cocktails, ice-cold brews, and the smooth sounds - all set against the stunning backdrop of the Potomac River. Alcohol and nonalcoholic drinks are available for purchase (21+ to drink alcohol, ID required).

• Free Admission: The music series is free to attend—no tickets required, just show up and enjoy the vibes.

Whether you’re catching up with friends, starting date night early, or just soaking in the views, Revolution on the Rocks is your go-to weekend groove and the perfect prelude to a magical spin 180 feet above the waterfront on The Capital Wheel. No tickets needed — just show up and enjoy the rhythm.

MUSIC LINE UP

♪ July 4: Full Day of Music!

♪ July 11: DJ Borja

♪ July 18: Brent Peterson

♪ July 25: DJ Borja

♪ August 1: Jim Wocknefuss

♪ August 8: John Luskey Duo

♪ August 15: DJ Borja

♪ August 22: Jim Wocknefuss

♪ August 29: Jim Wocknefuss

For more information on the music lineup and to plan your visit, please visit thecapitalwheel.com/revolution-on-the-rocks/

n Taste award winning wines at the Port of Leonardtown Winery

n Paddle the McIntosh Run water trail

n Enjoy a sunset along Breton Bay

n Dine at an outdoor cafe´

n Shop the Unique shops and Shepherd’s Old Field Market

Explore the galleries showcasing local artists in Southern Maryland’s only Arts & Entertainment District. Located in the heart of St. Mary’s County. VisitLeonardtownMD.com