Well folks, here we are beginning another month of information. I was thinking – and then ran the numbers – since our first issue in January of 1988, this will be the 467th time I have written Publishers Notes. Repetition does not make it any easier. Each month is unique, although it does seem like they all run together much of the time. I guess that time does that to us.
As I write this, the sun is shining brightly out of my window. The weather forecast is for partly cloudy, temps in the mid 60’s and sunshine for the next seven days. But, I fear there is a storm brewing. Today is October 31st…Halloween! In three days, November 3rd, is election day. Although a record number of Americans have already early voted, it is November 3rd when we get the predictions throughout the evening and the results around midnight, or as in the past, not for months.
Ironically, you may be reading this missive on that day as our distribution begins on November 2nd.
With all of the shouting back and forth about immigration over the past few years, I often think about the Statue of Liberty. The Statue and the New Colossus, a poem by Emma Lazarus. If you have never heard of it, just google the Statue of Liberty or New Colossus.
The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the most free and dynamic country in the universe. The statue was dedicated on October 28, 1886…a time that we cannot remember. If you are interested, I would recommend you look us the statue’s history and the New Colossus. I do not have enough space here to write about this great gift!
On to the future…our October weather has been spectacular. The same is forecast for November, except for some rumblings around November 3 & 4. To summarize, November features cool-down trends with potential for an active, wetter weather pattern later in the month.
November is a good transition month into winter. The summer clothes are put away and the fall warmth is brought out. It is also a transition into the holidays. In addition to celebrating Thanksgiving, please don’t forget Veteran’s Day on November 11th and all of those servicemen and women who made and keep this Nation free. See the Special Feature on Veteran’s Day in this issue. Also in this issue you will find:
A Bit of History – Sarah Becker takes an in depth look at the historical significance of “violence of faction” in our government.
Financial Focus – The advisors at Transportation Federal Credit Union give us some smart ways to manage our holiday spending. Between buying gifts, planning meals, traveling, and hosting family and friends, it can become one of the most expensive.
Arts & Entertainment
High Notes – Ron Powers takes us back to 1958 and Buddy Holly’s “Rave On” rock and roll.
Last Word – By Nov. 3rd, Miriam Kramer would rather be in one of her book’s stories. Check out her choices for decompressing.
On Stage Old Town – Mark Edleman takes us on a journey of what is playing in the theaters in the area, including our own Little Theatre in Old Town.
Gallery Beat – Lenny Campello remembers 40 years of curating Alexandria galleries and the pleasures and difficulties of that work as he embarks on yet another endeavor featuring the talent of the immigrants in our nation.
From the Bay to the Blue Ridge and Beyond
From the Bay – Valerie DiMarzio writes about the possibility of the Rockfish population showing a rise throughout the Bay. Caution is still necessary.
To the Blue Ridge – Victoria Zarbo writes of the improbable story of a friendship album being found in San Francisco, CA and returned 160 years later in Waterford, VA.
Road Trip – This month we returned to Rehoboth Beach Delaware for a visit to the beach in the “shoulder season” and a stay at the Avenue Inn and Spa.
Eating & Embibing
Let’s Eat – Charles Oppman writes about good news during this Holiday season…Chocolate, The Aztec Elixir!
Let’s Get Crafty – Tim discusses the requirements for Blackout Wednesday. Through blurry eyes, he remembers those days!
Grapevine – Matt Fitzsimmons gives us a first look at the Virginia wine film…”We the Wine People.” It gives another focus on why Virginia wines are that good.
Exploring VA Wines – Our buddy, Doug Fabbioli remembers his journey to becoming a winemaker and all the “little” things that make a difference. Here he discusses something he learned in California.
Fitness & Beauty
Fitness – During this festive holiday season, Nicole Flanagan gives us good tips on how to pace yourself during this consumption period.
From the Trainer – Following Nicoles premise, Ryan Unverzagt adds his two cents with some good suggestions.
First Blush – Also following in the same holiday path, Kim Putens takes a look at the importance of food in skin care during the cooler, more stressful months.
Odds & Ends
Go Fish – With bass fishing being so popular, Steve discusses the development of deep water, light line, finesse methods for catching big bass.
Open Space – In the rushed times of the holidays, Lori Welch Brown reminds us that time is always on the move and each day we are left further behind. We cannot slow the aging process, but embrace it and enjoy.
National Harbor – Once again the tree lightings seem wayyy too early and singing Christmas carols before there are Thanksgiving left overs isn’t really in her wheel house, Lani Gering fills us in on what is on the horizon for the holidays in the Harbor.
In the meantime, mark your calendars to make a special effort to thank a soldier on the 11th and watch that Thanksgiving calorie intake – or not – on the 26th all the while being grateful for all you have. Happy Thanksgiving All!