“The first man gets the oyster, the second man gets the shell”

Andrew Carnegie 

Fortunately, during last weekend’s 52nd Urbanna Oyster Festival, there were plenty of oysters to be had, even for those in the back of the line.  Everyone had loads.  And, most of us, way too many!  If you’ve not had the chance to venture to Urbanna, Virginia, for the annual oyster celebration, you’re not only missing great food, but also a special glimpse of small town America. 

Urbanna is located in Virginia’s Northern Neck, which is situated North of Williamsburg, and Southeast of Fredericksburg, hugging the Chesapeake Bay. 

It’s been called a “historic town”, and, in many ways, it is.  It’s among the places you’ll see on the National Register of Historic Places.  But, each year, on November 6th & 7th, you’ll find some 75,ooo folks headed to this “sleepy” coastal town for oysters, fritters and other assorted dishes, and loads more fun.  I can tell you, it’s likely on the “must see” list for those who enjoy touring the country in their RV’s, because there were plenty of those big boys parked in and around the festival. 

The two day festival has an assortment of activities, from an oyster shucking contest to the crowning of the festival’s Oyster Queen, among others. 

Any number of booths selling food, jewelry, art work, intricate wood design (well, you get the picture, like you’d see at the County Fair), and assorted items dot the town’s landscape.  Parking is available, but plan on paying a minumum of $10 or Friday, and $20 on Saturday to park. 

And, for those visiting for the first time, it doesn’t matter where you park, the prices are the same.  So, for convenience sake upon leaving, use the lots before you come into town.  

Enjoying the sights and sounds of Urbanna, and the Oyster Festival, the kids having fun, the adults enjoying each other’s company, the interaction with the booth workers, reminded me of the abundance our Commonwealth has to offer.  While most of us relish the time away from work on the weekends, and the relaxation it provides, you might mark the calendar and set aside this early November date next year.  It is a piece of Americana that you don’t want to miss.

You’ll meet some very nice people, view a beautiful part of the state, and enjoy some appetizing food dishes.  But you might do yourself a favor.  In case your eyes are too big for your stomach, don’t forget to bring the Tums!  

This weekend I was treated to a couple of evenings of dining at two of the area’s finest establishments.  And, while I enjoy good barbeque, or a visit to Chipolte with my sons, on Friday, I had another opportunity to spend the evening at one of Fredericksburg’s finest restaurants, Claiborne’s.    It may be the best in fine dining to be had in the area. 

Located in one of the orginal Old Town Fredericksburg’s train station buildings, the restaurant’s rooms allow for small parties as well as larger groups numbering more than fifty.  Whether your dining pleasure is filet mignon, chicken, fish, or something a bit more exotic, the menu won’t disappoint you.  Neither will the service.  The wait staff is polite, punctual, and knowledgeable.  While Friday night’s was a treat, Saturday night’s outing may have been better.  It was certainly a different setting.  

The Inn at Kelly’s Ford, is a site that should be a “mandatory formation” for visitors to the Commonwealth.   It’s simply an exceptional example of what the state has to offer; a joy for the palette, and the eyes.

In Remington, Virginia, the Inn is situated on the historical site of the Kelly´s Ford Civil War Battlefield, on 150 acres, which is part of a larger 500-acre estate.  As its website claims, there truly is a “casual elegance” that’s unmistakable upon arrival at the facility. 

While the occasion for Saturday’s visit was a wedding, I’d been there a couple of times previously.   The setting and view from the dining area is truly picturesque.  In the middle of the Commonwealth’s horse country, the countryside’s rolling hills, and green pastures, provide the ideal setting for a quiet evening of exquisite dining.

Similar to Claiborne’s, the menu at the Inn is full of dinner delights.  The Entree list includes:

While the cost of the entree selections is a bit more than one might expect at your routine “in town” restaurant, the Inn is anything but the usual, and you won’t find anything quite like it in the city.   Additionally, the menu features are some you won’t soon forget.  Not only are the dishes delicious, but their presentation is very impressive as well. 

The Fredericksburg and Stafford, Viriginia region has much to offer.  Whether on vacation, or an area homeowner enjoying a night out, Claiborne’s and the Inn at Kelly’s Ford are two fine dining choices you’ll enjoy immensely.  

Before making your reservation, make sure your night out is one during which you can relax and enjoy the atmosphere and appreciate the experience.  Each of the establishments leaves you wanting to remain a bit longer, to enjoy the experience even more.  In these cases, it’s an urge worth indulging.            

While Wegmans has some seventy stores, they’re exclusively in the Northeastern U.S.  Many shoppers outside of this area have never heard of Wegmans, much less stepped inside their doors.  From its birthplace of Rochester, N.Y., it’s stores have spread to neighboring states New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Maryland.   Store features include:

1.  Cheese Shop

2.  Bakery

3.  Coffee bar

4.  Patisserie

5.  Sushi Station

6.  Seafood Bar (with wine & beer by the glass)

7.  Burrito and Panini bar

8.  Crab Cake Counter

9.  Thai & Indian Buffet

10.  Kosher Deli

And much more, to include the two levels of seating for diners, who would rather sit down to enjoy their food.  This includes the upstairs balcony, where those who enjoy the touch of fresh air feel right at home.

For those of us who avoided the 20,000 or so shoppers who were brave enough to wade into Wegman’s on opening day, there’s plenty left to be had.  I happened to stop in earlier today, and the shelves have been fully re-stocked, while the aisles are still quite busy.  Its something new, and not your ordinary “shopping” experience.  As a matter of fact, the kids I witnessed in the store, seemed to be enjoying themselves as much as their parents.

Many have chosen to call Fredericksburg home because of its location, or history, or family in the area, or for its culture, or lifestyle reasons, among others.  And, availability of shopping is an important consideration for many.  With Wegmans moving into the neighborhood, we’re beginning to look a bit more like the “Big Time.”  Now, if we can just convince Trader Joe’s that Fredericksburg is big enough for them too, we might be on to something!

Opened at the first of the year, the Pub has gotten rave reviews.  One of its first published reviews was noted in the Fredericksburg blog, InTheBurg:

“Today Gail took me out to “The Fredericksburg Pub” for lunch. She had the pub burger, I had the bronzed fish sandwich. Both came with fries. I also added a Boddingtons (on tap) to the meal. This place is going to give other area restaurants a run for their money for the following reasons
a) Good pub fare
b) Fast service, I mean fast for everything, from getting our order, to bringing our drinks, to having the food in front of us.
c) Nice sized proportions and good prices
d) A Variety of flat screens showing football (American football) and football (soccer)
e) THEY ARE SMOKE FREE
f) Attractive and unique uniforms”

Having enjoyed the Pub a time or two already, I’d have to echo the reviewer’s comments.  While the novelty of the design and woodwork might impress you during your initial visit, the quality of food and service will beg you to return.

For those interest in a pint or two, you’ve found the mother lode.  There are more beer types, bottled and on tap, than one can imagine.  Whether it’s a dark brown Irish ale, a Double Chocolat Stout, or a plain old domestic brew, there’s plenty to choose from. 

The menu’s wide array of choices not only features unique dishes like the Cotswold Chicken Sandwich and Guiness Brownie Sunday, the normal British fare of Shepherd’s Pie or Bangers & Mash, but also many other favorites to pick from.

The Fredericksburg Pub isn’t your normal night out.  The character of the place is one you’ll remember.  The ceiling is a bit higher than your traditional British Pub, but just about everything else you’ll find will leave you coming back for more.

Goolrick’s Pharmacy is a combination of drug store and Soda Shop.  While the convenience of a corner pharmacy isn’t lost on its clientele, the front half of the store and its old fashioned soda shop is what draws the tourists and keeps many visitors coming back.

The assorted sandwiches (on toast if you’d like) include an assortment of the salad (egg, chicken & tuna) type, and favorites like the BLT and grilled cheese.  Each also includes a side of potato chips and a dill slice.  And, while these and the history are reason enough to drop by, many of us can’t wait for the supersized milkshakes which are about as good as you’ll find.  Not only are they twice the size you’ll find at your normal malt shop, but are thick and leave you wanting to return again and again to enjoy the flavor.  

As a military brat growing up on Air Force bases, much of my free time was spent at Youth Centers, playing basketball, playing ping pong, or shooting pool.  One the refreshments that each of the Youth Centers had was the mikshake.  So, my addiction to that particular drink came at a very early age, and remains with me to this day.  So, as you might imagine, a visit to Goolrick’s is never too far out of the way. 

But, Goolrick’s pharmacy has much more going for it than the the food and friendly service.  Not only does it serve as one of Old Town Fredericksburg’s most popular places for a bite to eat, it also is rich with history. 

Goolrick’s Pharmacy was originally established in the late 1800’s by William Barber Goolrick.  That store was moved to its current location on Caroline Street in the late 1890’s.  William’s son, Keating Nelson Goolrick, installed the store’s Soda Fountain in 1912, and serves as the oldest continuously running fountain in the United States.  It was also the first to serve this nation’s favorite soft drink, Coca Cola, in Fredericksburg. 

The Commonwealth of Virginia offers its residents and visitors historical, cultural, and community activities and sites that few other states can rival.  So, whether you’re visiting or just out enjoying the area’s beauty, and you’re in the Fredericksburg area, take a few minutes to drive into Old Town and spend a few minutes in Goolrick’s.  The inviting atmosphere, enjoyable and engaging staff, and the tasty menu won’t disappoint you.  And, if you love a great milkshake, you may end up spending more time in Old Town than you planned for!

But, once we decide to get out and find out what’s happening, where do we go to discover what’s taking place in our cities or neighborhoods?  For many of us, we depend on that weekly newspaper insert.  In this area, the local newspaper, the Free Lance Star, has its weekely Weekender section that does a splendid job of providing a rundown of local things that are happening.  But for us online types, there may be an easier solution.

A few months back, sitting in front of the computer, I ran across AmericanTowns.com.  Talk about community information!  When you have a moment, take a look.  It offers the latest in Community News.  Some of the items covered are:

School Activities, Classified Ads, Church Activities, Community Events (like the Pumpkin Patch, Guide To Apple Picking Orchards, Movie Guides, Volunteer Opportunities, etc.), Best Local Gas Prices, Classified Ads, Recreational Activity Sign Up, Arts & Entertainment News, Local Traffic Videos, Area Maps…in other words, Just about Everything!

White Water Thrill

American Towns has about all you’d want to know about your local area.  As a matter of fact, it covers the entire U.S.  Make sure you take advantage of this wonderful online tool.  You’ve got all you want to know at your fingertips.  So, do yourself a favor, stop playing the couch potato (not just on weekends) and start enjoying all that your local area has to offer!

But, hopefully, other than your daily back and forth to work, you get out every now and then to enjoy the people, places and things your community has to offer.  Our Stafford & Fredericksburg area offers a variety of entertainment outlets for both young and old.  One of the attractions that suits just about any taste is the Bella Cafe which sits on Route 1, just North of Stafford, VA.   

The Cafe is not your everyday attraction.  While it’s been called a restaurant or eatery, it’s anything but.  Known for its Tuesday and Thursday Chess nights, the pieces and chess boards are actually in use whenever there’s table space and players ready to play.  While the chess nights seem to attract an older crowd, it’s the Open Mic nights on Friday and Saturday that really draws the twenty-something and younger crowd.  The “open mic” is just that. 

While there is the line-up of regular performers, the microphone is open for all comers.  As a matter of fact, it’s the ideal place for any and all beginners to get some experience.  Whether its an instrument you play, or you just like to sing, there’s no better place to get your feet wet.  For those with a bit more experience, what better place to hone their skills?  Most of us do our best singing in the shower.  For us, Bella offers us a comfortable place just to sit back and enjoy the entertainment.  You won’t be disappointed.  Of course, what’s a Cafe without food?

Bella is an all day affair.  In other words, it serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.  While open, food is served.  Hours are:

Monday – Thursday           9:00AM – 10:00PM

Friday                                 9:00AM – 10:30PM

Saturday                            9:00AM – 11:00PM

Sunday                              10:00AM – 5:00PM

Menu items include many different offerings of various types of sandwiches, wraps, bagels, & soups, among other things.  Drinks available include expresso drinks, gourmet coffees, smoothies, custard shakes, and the regular lineup of soft drinks.  Teens stand in line for the 21 oz custard Brainfreeze which comes in an assortment of flavors.  While I have yet to have one, the numbers don’t lie.  The Brainfrreze must be tasty!  But, it’s their Shrimp and Roasted Corn Bisque that I find hard to pass up.  If a soup can be labeled gourmet, then it is gourmet.

The Bella Cafe isn’t you’re everday hangout.  Not only is the food very good and the entertainment enjoyable, but, what keeps the faithful coming back is its charm and sense of community.   So, next time you decide to turn off the big screen T.V. and head out for a bite to eat, by yourself or with friends and family, stop by the Bella Cafe.  If you’re lucky, you may have the chance to listen to the next star of “America’s Got Talent.”       

Fortunately, for Virginians, specifically, Northern Virginians, there are plenty of options outside of the normal fare.  For us beach lovers, Virginia Beach is only a couple of hours away from historic Fredericksburg.   And, if you choose to avoid the Interstate, the ride can be extremely enjoyable along the Virginia countryside.  If you haven’t, make the trip via US17 and the Tidewater Trail.  You’ll not only avoid the trucks and wall to wall traffic, but you’ll get a glimpse of a relatively unmolested area of the state.  This ”road not taken” is the perfect place to put the top down, relax, and just enjoy the beauty the tidewater area has to offer.  

Viriginia Beach on July 4th weekend is not for the faint of heart, unless you like lots of traffic, crowds, and lines.  But, once you get there, there’s lots to do & see, and no shortage of good places to grab a bite to eat.  If you’re like me and you’re an early riser, and even if you prefer to sleep in, for breakfast you’ve got to stop at Mary’s Restaurant on 17th Street.   It’s not only a favorite of the locals but offers a wide variety of choices for breakfast.  For those on a budget (hmmm…”beach budget”…is that an oxymoron?), you can take advanatage of the Early Bird Special which costs only $2.50, runs until 9:00AM, and features:

2 eggs any style with grits, toast
and choice of 2 bacon strips or 2 sausage patties
(Substitute home fries or spiced apples
instead of grits for 40¢)
OR
2 eggs any style and 2 pancakes with
warm syrup and whipped margarine

Whether it’s the bargain you’re looking for, or a bit more in the morning, you’ll enjoy the warm embrace of Mary’s atmosphere and service as well.    

The city has a wide variety of activities available on the 4th, from their normal beach tourist offerings, to those tailor made for Independence Day.   If you’re like me, you’ve probably had your fill of T-Shirt, Tattoo & trinket shops, but the good news is, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy beginning with a day on the beach and in the ocean, and ending with a casual stroll along the famous Boardwalk.   It provides plenty of room whether you navigate it by bike or foot.   

Prior to the evening’s fireworks, we had the opportunity to listen to the symphony orchestra of Virginia, Symphonicity accompanied by the Virginia Beach Chorale.    After an enjoyable hour of tunes that spanned the spectrum from Broadway to patriotism, we sttled down a bit after 9:00 for what most of the crowd had travelled miles to see, the Fireworks show.  We weren’t disappointed!

Click here to view the embedded video.

Since the fireworks are actually launched from a barge a few miles off shore, and can be seen from miles around, it isn’t a must to get “good seating”, however, 20th street appeared to be the location of choice for the best viewing.  And, if you want to sit back, relax, and do so with a bit of room, do yourself a favor and take a seat on the grass between the hotels and the boardwalk, instead of the beach.  You’ll be glad you did. 

Unless you’re staying in a hotel within walking distance the the beach, you’ll have to decide where you want to park.  If you’re driving, you can’t beat the free parking in the Convention Center parking lot.  You may have to walk a few blocks to the beach, but, after all the fireworks and fun are over with, and you’ve made it back to your car, amid the barely moving bumper to bumper traffic, it’ll only take you a few minutes to leave the parking lot.  With the Convention Center’s departing traffic a priority, the local police force very conveniently directs the parking lot’s traffic seamlessly into the normal flow of departing city traffic, making it a much smoother departure from the city than those parked closer to the beach. 

Next July 4th, consider doing something a bit different than the normal holiday backyard BBQ.  For those of us with military ties, if you don’t want to fight the Virginia Beach crowds & prices, there are a number of places to stay, like Langley AFB, Ft Story, and Oceana Naval Station, among others.  The accomodations are clean, well kept, and pretty much what you can expect, and the prices can’t be beat.  But remember, you’ll have to supply your own sun block!   

In business for nearly 40 years, it now found itself out in the cold.  The Globe & Laurel closed its doors on April 30th.    For the second time, its owners, former Marine Major Rick Spooner & his wife Gloria, had to find a new home.  Their first such venture occurred after the original Globe & Laurel, which opened in 1968, located in Quantico Town, burned down.    After attempting unsuccessfully to find another location in Prince William county to begin again, the Spooner’s were able to find some help a little further South along Route 1, in Stafford County.    With the assistance of Stafford’s Economic Development Authority, they were able to secure the building that formerly housed The Keep, and then Philly’s, both restaurants, similar to The Globe & Laurel.  With loads of renvoations needed, Stafford’s EDA pitched in both short term and longer term contributions, the former being $50,000, the latter $33,000 per year for the next three years.

In the food business, one’s reputation is priceless.  Do a google search for the The Globe & Laurel, and see what you find.  What you’ll find is visitor after visitor, patron after patron, that can’t say enough about the food, the atmosphere, and the great hosts it has.  It truly is a unique establishment.  Beginning with the tartan carpet, you’ll find a familiar pub like interior design, a distinctive selection of wines, and the a local favorite brew, Leatherneck Lager.  While the atmosphere sets it apart from the everyday eatery, Maj Spooner has never wavered from his desire to provide his patrons more than just a meal.  He wants them to leave not only well fed, but also well cared for.   The service is second to none with the Spooners leading by example as they greet those heading in to dine.  Often , you’ll find the Major making his way around the restaurant, ensuring those already dining are enjoying themselves.  

The Globe & Laurel is a rare find.  While you’ll enjoy the food & drink, you’ll take away much more after a visit.  If you’re lucky, you’ll have a chance to chat with the Spooners, especially the old Marine who has already shown that it takes more than the government to keep him down.  As Yogi likes to remind us, “It ain’t over til it’s over.”  And, for Major Spooner, this new venture probably seems more like, ”deja vu all over again!” 

 The abundance of activities taking place include childen’s workshops, new displays in the Global War on terrorism gallery, a “how to” session with a Marine Corps Combat artist, a performance from a local fife and drum corps, and much more.  The Museum, which opened in November, 2006, is not only a wealth of information on the history of the Marine Corps, bit it’s lots of fun too, with many indoor and outdoor activities and sites.  Whether it’s a walk accompanied by a National Park Service ranger discussing the history of the USMC Heritage Center site, or time for the teens to enjoy a Physical fitness Training (PT) session at the Playground with Marines, trying to see everything in a day is a chore. 

So, if you’re like me and you’d rather celebrate this Memorial Day a bit closer to home, take a few minutes to stop by and enjoy the Memorial, or just to say “thanks for your sacrifice.”

Click here to view the embedded video.