From sharp-tongued space princesses to Bogey's grim gumshoe, some of Leigh Brackett's most enduring legacies are the scripts she wrote for movies that are considered among the 20th century's very best. But her short stories and longer fiction also inspired generations of science fiction and fantasy authors.

Jane Austen: A Timeless Nonpareil -- 10/29/2008

Although Jane Austen lived and wrote 200 years ago, she is as popular as ever. Popular culture has kept her books and her life alive through new movie adaptations of her books, continuances of her stories, biographies of her life, and fictional accounts with Austen or her works as a source of inspiration.

Investing in the Stock Market Now -- 10/22/2008
With the stock market DOW Industrials Index sitting around 9,000, banking institutions failing, and almost all technical indicators screaming recession, is it time to think about putting new money into the stock market? The time just might be closer than you think.

"The Queene of Pomonky" -- 10/14/2008

In 1677, seventy years after Jamestown's founding, the leaders of many of Virginia's tribes came together to sign the Treaty of Middle Plantation with the English settlers. Besides guaranteeing certain land rights and human rights to the tribes, the document (revised in 1680) also granted considerable power to the highly-regarded Queen Cockacoeske of the Pamunkey tribe.

Learn to Keyboard -- 10/7/2008
We've run an article on revving up your computer with the right software configuration, but there's an even more basic way for computer users to increase their speed. Learn to keyboard. Hunting and pecking for the correct keys can take a lot of the joy out of PC applications. If you've never learned to type, consider picking up this vital skill on your own with books from the library and online practice tools.

JSTOR: The Historian's Database -- 10/1/2008
JSTOR gives full-text access to scholarly articles and primary source materials. It is invaluable for historians, and it is free to use—either from home or in the library—for CRRL card holders.

Creating and Sharing an Online Reading Journal -- 9/30/2008
For years I tried to keep a reading journal next to my bed, ready to record my reading adventures. I'd start one, lose it, and begin another. Last Christmas I purchased Nancy Pearl's Book Lust Journal with high hopes of chronicling my 2008 book list. I haven't seen it for a while now, but I seem to remember the two-year-old running away with it, Sharpie in hand.

Vegetarianism and Veganism Are the New Green -- 9/23/2008
Many people are excited to go green these days, whether it's using cloth bags at the grocery store, driving a hybrid, or using a compact fluorescent light bulb. But did you know that reducing pollution and global warming, conserving fossil fuels and water, and preventing land degradation and species loss are all as easy as changing what you put on your plate?

Genealogy, Local History, and Your Family Tree: How May We Help You? -- 9/16/2008
We have annotated some of our many resources, which will assist you in locating people, places, and events relevant to your genealogy. Some may relate directly to your family history, while others may simply help to create a historical or geographical context for your research. Simply follow the links to discover more about what each resource has to offer!

Exploring Music -- 9/11/2008
Sometimes when you're listening to the radio, you start to feel that the songs sprinkled between commercials all sound the same. Then you can't find anything fresh on your playlists, CDs or albums. You're in a musical rut. Explore these books and Web sites to help you discover artists, songs and styles that will give you a new enjoyment of music while introducing you to sounds you might never have discovered on your own.

Some Things Scottish -- 9/6/2008

The 2008 Virginia Scottish Games and Festival will be held September 13th and 14th, from 9 AM to 6 PM, at Sky Meadows State Park in Delaplane, VA. There will be feats of strength, traditional music and dance, dog trials, a gathering of the clans, and much more. Other nearby festivals are being held this fall in Williamsburg, Alexandria, and Crownsville, Maryland. Grab your lad, your lassie, or your collie dog and join the fun.

Brain Training -- 8/20/2008
Neurofeedback usually involves increasing or decreasing brainwave activity of certain frequencies at certain locations and is being used to treat autism, depression, stroke, seizures, attention deficit disorder, and much more. A free program on Neurofeedback and Brain Fitness will be presented at the Headquarters Branch of the Library on Wednesday, September 24, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Space is limited. Please call 540-372-1144 to register.

Sew Thrifty -- 8/18/2008
Are you feeling the pinch of tight money? Simple alterations like changing hems and replacing buttons can spruce up your old clothes and make them seem new again. Repairing ripped seams or that hole in your pocket lining is easy following the directions in the many sewing manuals at the library. Often the only tools needed are a needle and thread. The library has how-to books for sewing and transforming your clothes into something fresh and new.

Increase Your Computer's Productivity -- 8/15/2008
Time is precious and for all the claims that computers save time, it sure feels like they cause more difficulties in our day-to-day lives than they create. This article will focus on optimizing your Windows-based PC (XP and Vista) for personal productivity, saving you time and sanity. It will also introduce you to a number of tools you may download for free or use online which will help you out even more. Ironically, all this is going to take a little time, but just stay with me; when you're done, life with your computer will be much better.

Mum's the Word -- 7/30/2008
Every fall, grocery stores, farmers' markets, and roadside stands fill with pots large and small crammed to overflowing with chrysanthemums. Long known in Asia and Europe, our chrysanthemums come in many varieties from which to choose. From a simple daisy-like blossom to a show flower tufted in multi-layers of glorious petals, chrysanthemums have enough variety to suit every taste.

Donating School Supplies -- 7/28/2008
It's time to stand in line and complain about the high cost of school supplies. Parents groan, whip out their pieces of plastic, gnash their teeth, and pay up. It's what we do every year. Even after checking for the best sales and rebates, the total is still hard to take. But this is what we have to do. And yet, have you ever considered that you are lucky to be able to do it at all?

The Major Dynasties of China: Part II -- 7/22/2008
This year's Summer Olympics are being held in Beijing, the capital of China. While China has been in the news recently and people are aware of some current events occurring in the country, not many realize that China has a long and complicated history full of changing dynasties. To mark the 2008 Beijing Olympics, this second article of two will introduce people to the dynasties that mark the last 729 years of Chinese civilization.

The Major Dynasties of China: Part I -- 7/15/2008

This year's Summer Olympics are being held in Beijing, the capital of China. While China has been in the news recently and people are aware of some current events occurring in the county, not many realize that China has a long and complicated history full of changing dynasties. To mark the 2008 Beijing Olympics, this first article of two will introduce people to the dynasties that mark the first 2800 years of Chinese civilization.

A Free-for-All Family Summer -- 7/11/2008

What with sky high gas prices and rising grocery costs, keeping the family entertained this summer just went on a budget. You may be able to pull off a week at the beach, but there are still seven more weeks of summer to go. Don't panic! There's lots of free fun to be had in our area: movies, music, festivals, and even beaches.

Vive le Tour! -- 7/1/2008
Saying the Tour de France is just a bike race is like saying the Maserati is just a car. For three weeks every July, France and the cycling world are tuned in to the world's most prestigious bicycle race. Two hundred riders pedal 2,200 miles through every corner of France. No race tickets are sold, but fans line the roadways, making the Tour the most widely attended sporting event in the world. Two billion cycling fans and enthusiasts worldwide watch the race on television.

What a Difference a Year Makes -- 6/27/2008

What would you do if you had an entire year free? If you had no family, work or financial obligations, what would you do with a year?

Fireworks All Around! -- 6/21/2008
Events are taking place at towns and cities all around the region offering the possibility of tried and true or discovery. Since most events begin early and end late, consider taking a sun hat, sun glasses, a flashlight, lots of water, and sunscreen to make the day a pleasurable experience.

Fun on the Fourth and Thereabouts -- 6/18/2008
Ready for fireworks, icy watermelon, a variety of music, and so much more? Events in the Rappahannock area have you covered. Whether you enjoy watching fireworks, running a race, manning a raft, sipping wine, shopping for crafts, marching in a parade, or speaking with "our first president," you'll find something to do round these parts that suits your fancy.

Saving Summer in a Jar:
Preserving the Fruits of the Season -- 6/13/2008
The arts of food preservation go back to civilization's beginnings. In ancient Mesopotamia, families saved their produce for lean times. They dried dates, apples and figs. Their meat might be smoked, dried, or salted meat. Softer fruits could be preserved in honey. Now we have cane sugar, pressure cookers, refrigeration, packaged pectin, and so much more to make the process easier. Preserves and pickles have gone gourmet and exotic with exciting flavor combinations to enjoy and share with others. Yet the reason behind preserving comes down to a desire to save today's abundant food on hand to be savored at a later time.

Water Safety: An Absolute Necessity -- 6/10/2008
Living so near the Rappahannock River and a short drive from the ocean, we all like to enjoy the beauty and fun of both. However, the summer of 2001 saw four people drown in the Rappahannock. Summer 2003, three more died. In the summer of 2004, two people drowned. In 2005, there were two more. Sirens screamed again in 2006 when a UMW student drowned while swimming in a quarry near the river. Finally (for now), on June 8, 2008, a young man drowned while on a church outing at Old Mill Park. Practicing water safety measures might well prevent another tragedy.

2008: The Year of the Frog -- 6/4/2008
The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums have declared 2008 as the Year of the Frog. They want to mark a major conservation effort in light of the global crisis of declining frogs and toads. It's time to discover the frogs in your own backyard and learn how to protect their environment.

Wanted: Local High School Yearbooks -- 6/4/2008
There's a hole in our history—several holes, actually. Perhaps you could help fill those holes!

Local high school yearbooks now form a treasured part of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library's Virginiana collection. They're fascinating to look through and are terrific resources for historians and genealogists. They capture, in words and wonderful photographs, a true sense of the times in which those youths lived.

Finding Local Confederate Military Unit Information -- 6/4/2008
The Central Rappahannock region was definitely Confederate country in 1861. The town sent much of its white male population off to fight for the Confederate cause. The 30th and 47th Virginia Infantry Regiments and the 9th Virginia Calvary Regiment were largely composed of local folks. There are some excellent sources on these local Confederate soldiers available at the Central Rappahannock Regional Library or on the Internet.

Personal Finance - It's a Woman Thing -- 5/29/2008
We know there are only three honest ways to obtain money. The first is to work for it, the second is to inherit it, and the third way is to invest the money wisely during your working years. Most of us need to do number three. How? Reconnect with money in a positive way by making active decisions every day about how to use it. Keep track of everything, and make realistic spending rules, then follow the rules and watch your freedom about money grow.

The Weddings of Five Famous Virginia Brides -- 5/29/2008
These five brides from three centuries left distinctive imprints on Virginia history. One was a humble serving girl; another was an Indian princess. The other brides were a mother, granddaughter and great-granddaughter whose marriages would place them in the forefront of national affairs.

A Day of Remembrance -- 5/23/2008
Memorial Day has a long history, reaching back to the end of the Civil War. On April 9, 1865, Robert E. Lee surrendered his army, and soldiers of the North and South went home to their families, their ranks thinned by the war's bloodshed. Thousands upon thousands of the men who went to battle never returned. At home, their families grieved for the fathers and brothers lost to them and looked for a way to memorialize their sacrifices.

Inside Ozone Alerts -- 5/9/2008
As our area grows, the wide, open fields and shady woods that covered the counties and even some parts of the city in long-time residents' memories are becoming a thing of the past. Bulldozers replace tractors as common sights along the road. It's the pavement, buildings, and the inevitable traffic that comes along with both that guarantees a rise in air pollution. The future looks hazy from here-- as well as hot and humid.

Modern-World Ways to Save -- 5/8/2008
With food and gas prices skyrocketing, it's time to reconsider how we spend our paychecks. Even if you've got money to spare now, you could be looking at a downsized salary later or a period of unemployment. Unless you've been on the job for a while, that unemployment check isn't going to cover much. Better to rethink some everyday expenses so you'll have a bit of a financial cushion for later on.

Finding Local Obituaries -- 5/6/2008
In the CRRL's Virginia Collection is an almost complete collection, on microfilm, of the many newspapers that have been printed here in Fredericksburg since 1788. Obituaries have always figured prominently in those newspapers.

Stamp Out Hunger -- 5/3/2008
On Saturday, May 10th, postal carriers will be doing more than just delivering the mail. They will also be gathering food, donated by the community, that will replenish the perilously low local food bank supplies. This is the 14th year for the postal operation “Stamp Out Hunger,” which last year gathered more than 70 million pounds of food.

Internet Video: Past, Present and Future -- 4/26/2008
The Internet has transitioned from online video being a pipe dream to being so tightly integrated that we hardly think about it. What we're experiencing in 2008 is richer than anything we experienced in 2005, three short years ago when YouTube started the ball rolling.

What is Film Noir? -- 4/12/2008

Film noir is not easily defined. The actual words come from French and mean "black cinema." It was in France during the post-war years that the term was used to describe a certain set of Hollywood films that were saturated with a darkness and cynicism that was not seen before.

Come see for free The Maltese Falcon—a film noir classic starring Humphrey Bogart—on Tuesday, September 23, in the Headquarters Library Theater at 7 pm.

Charles Simic: Our 15th Poet Laureate -- 4/2/2008
Charles Simic was born in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, in 1938. He has said that living through World War II shaped his life and his writing:

Being one of the millions of displaced persons made an impression on me. In addition to my own little story of bad luck, I heard plenty of others.
—Charles Simic in The Courtland Review

James Monroe Museum Celebrates Its Namesake's 250th Birthday -- 4/1/2008
On Sunday, April 27, 2008, the James Monroe Museum in Fredericksburg, Virginia, will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of President James Monroe. The Museum, at 908 Charles Street, holds the largest collection of Monroe-related artifacts in the world.
At the 1-4 p.m. birthday open house, the public can view new and continuing exhibitions of the fifth President's life and times. Also, crew members from the U.S.S. James Monroe will display artifacts from their ship. Guests will hear the Monroes' pianoforte, only played for special occasions, and folk music by Syllabub. They can have a piece of birthday cake cut by the "President."

Meant to be Read Aloud -- 3/28/2008
“And you need the silence. So much of the power of a poem is in what it doesn’t say as much as in what it does say. As when a flower is preparing to bloom, or after it has bloomed, when it is suspending its strengths and its potency and is at rest – or seems to be, its mission to flower and to produce seed having been fulfilled.”
From The Wild Braid: A Poet Reflects on a Century in the Garden by Stanley Kunitz. He became Poet Laureate of the United States for the second time at the age of 95.

A Guide for Area Commuters -- 3/22/2008
Well before dawn breaks over the I-95, the race begins. A quick shower, a quicker breakfast, warming the engine, and settling into the chilly seat-- our commuters know the routine... the engine turns over, the heat comes on, and the open road awaits, at least until that bottleneck at Potomac Mills.
Image courtesy of the Library of Congress' American Memory Project.

What's in Your Water? -- 3/13/2008
Water, water everywhere…but is it safe to drink?
With bottled water costing well over a buck at the convenience store, budget-conscious folks have been switching to tap water. After all, the argument goes, tap water goes through filtration, too, and has the added benefit of fluoride. News stories blamed the rise in kids' cavities on a switch to bottled water. Surely it made more sense to stick with tap water. Now we find out that tap water and perhaps bottled water contain traces of prescription medications, causing people to reconsider their daily water source.

Borderline Personality Disorder -- 3/7/2008
Erratic and manipulative behavior. Abandonment issues and violent mood swings. Self-destructive habits.
Friends and relatives with these traits may suffer from Borderline Personality Disorder.

Spotsylvania's Historic African-American Ministers -- 3/7/2008
Terry Miller's new book, Spotsylvania's Historic African Americans, promises to be an important addition to our local history resource. In this excerpt from her work, she sketches the lives of four ministers who were instrumental in establishing and maintaining churches in the latter part of the 19th and early part of the 20th centuries.

Bloom Where You're Planted . . .Now! -- 2/29/2008
Walking by a coworker's office recently, we couldn't help but notice this gorgeous display of amaryllis. Planted in potting soil and each in a pot that isn't much wider than the bulb, these two plants have sent forth multiple blooms brightening the office here in the doldrums of winter.

The Energy-Efficient Lifestyle -- 2/23/2008
The energy we use every day in our homes creates a high demand for energy resources and costs us a lot of money. There are many ways, which range from the inexpensive to the expensive, to lead a more energy-efficient lifestyle and to lower your carbon footprint.
Read on for circuits to savings and how to check the size of your carbon footprint.

Coming Home:
Forty Years after the Tet Offensive -- 2/13/2008
People compare lots of things to Vietnam. Pundits said that Afghanistan was Russia's Vietnam. They say that Iraq is another Vietnam. But if you lived through the era you know that only Vietnam was Vietnam.

The Rappahannock Region's Architecture:
Part 2: Forgotten Colonial Cottages -- 2/11/2008
The big brick mansions such as Kenmore, Gunston Hall, and Carter's Grove grab the attention of most tourists to the Old Dominion but equally historic if considerably less lauded are the clapboard, plaster, and brick cottages that were homes and gathering places for everyday people in colonial Virginia towns. This type of architecture, often called vernacular architecture, springs from traditional, practical building methods and the use of abundant local materials.

NASCAR: The Need for Speed -- 2/4/2008
The 50th running of the Daytona 500 takes place on February 17, 2008. For NASCAR fans, this is the big one. It's got the best drivers on the circuit, the most prize money, and the most prestige of them all. Whether you're new to NASCAR or a longtime fan, check out this article for sources on NASCAR news, trivia, history, and more.

Time for Tea -- 2/2/2008
Tea can be the centerpiece of a formal party or simply everyday hospitality among friends. Whether you prefer herbal, green, or black varieties, when you sip a cup of tea, you are joining a rich, historical tradition.

How to Never Spend Money on PC Software Ever Again -- 1/28/2008
Technology is a money pit, right? No matter how much money you choose to sink into that once shiny, new PC you bought oh-so-many years ago, it seems like there's always something else to buy! Perhaps that once was the reality, but it has been shattered in recent years. With the exception of video games developed with budgets larger than most major Hollywood releases, there is no software for your PC that you cannot download and use for absolutely free; believe it or not, this also includes your operating system! Combined with the fact that you can buy a new PC from big-box retailers for $500 or less, there has never been a better time to be PC owner.

Join the Green Cleaning Scene -- 1/25/2008

There are a vast number of ways to lead a more earth-friendly life, and you may feel overwhelmed and are not sure where to start. A good place to begin is with green cleaning. Not only does green cleaning help the environment, but it also helps you and your family avoid dangerous chemicals in your daily life.

Attention, Teens!
Apply for Local Community Foundation Scholarships Now -- 1/18/2008
March 13, 2008, is the deadline to apply for financial aid from the Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region. The CFRRR has taken under its administration 19 local scholarships created in memory of beloved students and community leaders.

General Lewis Littlepage of Spotsylvania: Soldier, Spy, and King's Confidant, 1762-1802 -- 1/16/2008
To the Spaniards, he was known as young Litlpese. Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette knew him as the charming Little Peche. In Russia, to Catherine the Great and her favorites, he was the clever and ambitious Litlpaz. The doomed monarch, Stanislas Augustus of Poland, knew him as his loyal Litelpecz. Whatever the name, this often penniless Virginian's brilliant intellect and exquisite manners won him entry into the chambers, gaming tables, and salons of the last decades of Europe's Age of Enlightenment.
Image: Castle Zamek is the old Royal Castle in Warsaw. Lewis Littlepage would have spent much time there in his role as Court Chamberlain.

One Father's Homeschooling Experience -- 1/9/2008
When we were expecting our first child, I started talking with my wife about homeschooling—which I now prefer to call unschooling. She agreed, and we have never regretted it. Raised to be independent learners, both children did well on their college entrance exams and are now away at college.

Learn a Foreign Language on the Cheap or for Free -- 1/4/2008
Let's face it—learning a new language is probably one of the hardest tasks a person can undertake, and it's usually not cheap, either. How many of us have the money or the time to travel to a foreign country for total immersion? Books help to some degree—but only with reading and writing skills. Videos and CDs are available, but they can be expensive.
It seems everywhere you turn there are roadblocks in your way to learning a new language. But there is hope.

Recycling Christmas: Make It a Green One -- 12/28/2007
What's lying around your living room after holidays? Most of us didn't receive five golden rings or even one partridge—in a pear tree or otherwise. For every present received, it seems we find four times as much gift wrap to clear away. What to do with the remains of the holiday season? Reuse, recycle, and ultimately reduce the strain of the holidays on the environment and your wallet.

'Tis the Season—Around the World -- 12/21/2007

How do people that live far away and have grown up in different cultures celebrate Christmas?
What do they treasure? Do they celebrate Christmas at all?
Yes, they do! And every country has its own wonderful, enchanting traditions.

Holiday Stress Busters -- 12/14/2007
Cooking, cleaning, party-going, party-giving, visiting relatives, relatives visiting—welcome to the holidays! If you are the one who's mostly in charge of making the holidays bright, odds are for you may need a little pick-me-up yourself.

The Rappahannock Region's Architecture:
Part 1: The Old Brick Mansions -- 12/10/2007
Kenmore—Stratford Hall—Berkley Plantation—these and many other substantial brick residences were designed to last and impress. The style was called Georgian, in honor of the English kings of the period. Later similar houses built after the American Revolution would be patriotically dubbed Federal. This article briefly looks at some common characteristics of the houses' exteriors.

Creating Your Holiday Newsletter -- 12/7/2007
Etiquette purists may shudder at a mass-produced family newsletter, but in these days of friends and family spread across the country, a newsletter can be an effective way to spread cheery news. After all, how much verbiage CAN you fit on a (mass-produced) holiday card?

Christmas Cookie Madness -- 11/26/2007
This article is for the Christmas cookie baker who dreams of all the different types of cookies to make each year and has a must-bake list a mile long. Don't miss these great cookie books at your local library and fantastic cookie Web sites to find your next family favorite.

November Is American Diabetes Month -- 11/20/2007
If you or one of your loved ones have just been diagnosed with any type of diabetes, there are certainly a million questions that are running through your head right now.
Is it contagious? Can he/she still eat chocolate? Do I have to buy special foods? Is the person more prone to getting a cold or other illnesses?
The library provides many resources that help you understand and live with diabetes.

A Gut Feeling: Celiac Disease -- 11/17/2007

When is ordinary bread not the staff of life? When you or a loved one suffers from celiac disease. People with this condition can not properly digest protein gluten found in ordinary bread, pasta, cookies, and many other foods. While there is no cure for celiac disease, it can be managed with dietary changes. And with a little special planning, gifts of beautiful holiday cookies and pans of steaming rolls can still be part of the season's traditions.

Get Your Online Music without the Subpoena -- 11/5/2007

It's been years since the Napster free-for-all philosophy hit the headlines and started the court cases rolling. In this article, tech savvy librarian Chuck Gray looks at the current state of online music availability and disability.

Witch Hunt! -- 10/24/2007
It was mass hysteria. Previously in the American colonies, accusations of witchcraft were limited to one or two people. In Salem Village during 1692, more than 100 people were accused, with 19 being hanged for witchcraft.

Muddling Through Midlife -- 10/19/2007
Good health, enough wealth, long life, happy families—the stuff that dreams are made of. But most Americans' lives fall short in one or more of these areas, and often it's the midlife years (40s to 50s) where things start to go haywire. If you're one of the many, many people who feel that just when they got the hang of the game, the rules completely changed, read on.

It's Never Too Late: Getting Your GED -- 10/18/2007
Whatever your reason for not graduating from high school, it's never too late to take the Test of General Educational Development or GED. This high-school equivalency exam can help you get a job, a promotion, or even attend college.

A Female Soldier in the Civil War: Emma E. Edmonds -- 10/12/2007
Historians believe at least 400 women served in the Civil War as soldiers, but documented cases are very few. One woman who served with a Michigan regiment and witnessed the Battle of Fredericksburg, Emma Edmonds, documented her time serving with Company F, the Flint Union Greys, of the Second Michigan Infantry Volunteers.
Although Edmonds was not an American citizen and had no obligation to participate in the war, she argued that she could not allow so many people to suffer while she had a comparatively easy life.

New Breast Cancer Books Available from the Library -- 10/10/2007
When Virginia Representative Joanne Davis died this month after a years-long struggle with breast cancer, a terrible disease made national headlines once more. Decades of research have yielded new treatments and greater understanding, but the mortality rate is still high.

The Central Rappahannock Regional Library has acquired more than a dozen new books on breast cancer that will be of interest to patients, families, and caregivers. Purchased with a grant from the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation, these titles have empowering and practical advice for the newly-diagnosed and those who love them.

Down Syndrome -- 9/27/2007
Down Syndrome affects one in every 800 babies born, making it the most common single cause of human birth defects.

Striving for Success in School and on the Job -- 9/26/2007

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Disabled Americans today have been given the right to a more independent life because of the Americans with Disabilities Act.



John Adams Elder:
Fredericksburg's Artist of the Civil War -- 9/25/2007
Come to the Fredericksburg Museum to see works by celebrated local artist John Adams Elder, some of which have not been publicly displayed for decades. Besides Civil War subjects, gallery goers can gaze on the likenesses of prominent Virginians past and mementoes of his life.

Deafness: Choices of Communication -- 9/24/2007

One of the first things hearing parents ask themselves when they discover they have deaf children is how they will communicate with them, and how, eventually, will their children communicate with the world.

Estate Jewelry: The Portfolio that Glimmers -- 9/20/2007

Since the dawn of time, woman has collected jewelry....
And, judging from the amount of it on the market today, she has thrown very little away. Whatever your pleasure—turquoise, diamonds, platinum, or tourmaline—you can collect it, wear it, and sometimes make a profit on it.

A Backyard Oasis -- 9/14/2007
Sitting by a garden pond, watching bright fish weave their way through tangles of lilies while listening to sounds of rushing water—does this sound good to you? When we moved into our house we inherited a fish tank and found out just how nice it was. Unfortunately, the tank resembled a moonshine bathtub. So we have decided to give the fish a new home. Planning the pond has been fun, but there are a lot of things to consider before you start digging.

Living with Bipolar Disorder -- 9/6/2007

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, causes radical mood swings, acute changes in energy level, and a decline in functioning. Often undiagnosed, this brain disease affects an estimated 5.7 million American adults.

A Bloody Day in the Virginia Colony -- 8/30/2007
In 1622, it was called a massacre. Today historians call it other things: assault, uprising, coup, or attack. No matter what the name, the facts are the same. On March 22, 1622, under the leadership of Opechancanough, brother to the late chief Powhatan, tribes of the Powhatan Confederacy attacked English settlers along the James River.

Free Monthly Artists' Legal Clinic -- 8/29/2007
Feeling creative? Want to insure that no one copies your work? Learn how to protect your intellectual property at free artists' legal clinics.

Gari Melchers, Stafford County's Artist in Residence -- 8/22/2007
Even if you have already visited Gari Melcher's lovely home in Falmouth, a new exhibition, The Sermon—on loan from the Smithsonian Institution, is a good reason to make a return trip. This painting is considered the most critically acclaimed of Melchers' works and was shown at the 1886 Paris Salon.
Want to learn more about the artist and his paintings? Read the following linked article, and consider a field trip! Join Belmont curator Joanna Catron on Sunday, September 9, at 2 pm, for a lecture entitled “The Sermon: Icon of American Expatriate Painting” in the Studio Pavilion.

Storm Warnings -- 8/17/2007
The afternoon breeze, humidity, and thunderheads cued the adults to listen to the radio. The broadcast confirmed their suspicions of impending, severe thunderstorms. We went about the business of stowing the toys, the lawn furniture, and garden tools into Grandma and Grandpa's sheds.

Image Photographer: Harald Richter; Credit: NOAA Photo Library, NOAA Central Library; OAR/ERL/National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL)

Grab Your Own Corner of the Web -- 8/10/2007
Before the advent of Web 2.0, aka the Read/Write Web, which offers users literally hundreds of tools for creating and publishing their own content, the Web was seen as the realm of techies and professional designers.
Now with services like blogs, social networks, and easy-to-use Web page builders, all completely free of charge, it is easier than ever to grab your own corner of the Web and make yourself known. Use the resources listed in this article to go forth and make the Web your own.

Let's Go Fishing -- 8/3/2007

Ponds, lakes, streams, and, of course, the Rappahannock River—there are lots of places to drop a line in the area. Whether you’re new to fishing or want to wade back in, we have suggestions on where to fish locally and books that will help you get your lines cast and your lures tied.

Mapping the Past -- 7/31/2007
With Google's now infamous detailed photos, it's rather easy to see how a town is laid out today. But what about 50, 100, or 150 years ago? Where are the maps that show how the towns and counties grew through the years? One excellent source of information, the Sanborn fire insurance maps, is available online to our patrons at no charge. Also of interest, the Fredericksburg Museum is featuring a special exhibit until September 11, 2007. Four Centuries of Virginia Maps has samples of maps from the days of early exploration through the colonial period, the Civil War, the 20th century, and on to modern satellite images.

Ticks and Lyme Disease -- 7/27/2007
Lyme disease is the name for the infection caused by a bacteria transmitted to humans when bitten by deer ticks, which easily find you in high grass and the woods. Lyme disease is a very serious health risk that can potentially cause lifelong health problems.

Building Decks -- 7/13/2007
Is there a forlorn space in your backyard? Does your new house lack individuality? Would you like another option for a children's play area, or do you just want a place to relax and entertain your friends while being a little closer to nature? If you're wistful about the good times you could be having with a bit more room, you might be one of the many folks in our area who are planning on building a deck addition to their homes.

Just Peachy! -- 7/13/2007
No sodium. No cholesterol. Extremely low in fat. High in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and niacin as well being sweet and juicy—what's not to love about a peach? Unless sugar is a concern, they are certainly one of summer's most delightful guilt-free treats, and they are in season locally.

Growing a "Greener" Garden and Lawn -- 7/6/2007

Does hot July find your lawn a patchy, scorched remnant of greener times? Perhaps it bothers you that your green recycling efforts may be countered by the water and chemicals that seem necessary to maintain the visible herbal greenness.

Park Skating Rink -- 7/3/2007
Almost a century ago, for thrills, spills, and sociability, local residents by the hundreds flocked to roller skating rink, located near Hurkamp Park.

"Don't Forget to Write, Honey!" -- 6/22/2007
There are so many things to do to prepare a child for college or full-time employment and life outside your home. With the press of activity, there really wasn't a moment to spare or think. But now you're home and it seems quiet…too quiet.

Discovering Jacques Cousteau -- 6/15/2007

Naval officer, inventor, explorer, environmentalist, filmmaker, writer, and international media sensation—Jacques-Yves Cousteau's life was the stuff of legends. He was born in June of 1911. In our modern era of environmental concerns and done-nothing celebs, it's time to revisit the life and work of an extraordinary man.

Summer Pool Safety -- 6/8/2007

When school's out and summer is in full swing, many families look to their local swimming pool for fun in the sun. However, without taking the proper precautions, swimming in any environment can be extremely dangerous to the inexperienced swimmer.

New Resources for Local Grantseekers -- 6/7/2007
Do you work for a nonprofit organization? Are you interested in starting a nonprofit organization? Looking for a grant to help fund your education? The Central Rappahannock Regional Library houses a growing collection of resources to help you.

The CRRL has recently expanded its Nonprofit Center, having been awarded status as a Cooperating Collection of the Foundation Center.

Time for Tapas -- 6/1/2007
You and your out-of-town guests have survived a blistering day of fun in the Virginia sunshine. Now comes the gracious hour to unwind in the shade. Something icy or relaxing to drink is certainly called for. And, as the conversation continues, your guests realize they are just a little bit hungry. Although it's too soon for dinner plans, this late afternoon sojourn is a perfect time for tapas. The light and delightful nibbles from Spain are memorable way to treat your guests—and yourself.

Lafayette: Friend to America -- 5/8/2007
France's recent improvements in relations with the United States recall the countries' early friendship. Our new nation had come dangerously close to annihilation until France, and one particular Frenchman came to her rescue. An idealistic young chevalier named Lafayette was wounded in our Battle of Brandywine and accepted command of a division to lead our troops to victory at Yorktown—alongside his good friend, George Washington.

Book Groups:
Reading and Sharing -- 5/8/2007
Book groups allow you to explore the kind of literature you're most interested in and introduce you to works you might never have discovered on your own. Groups afford an opportunity to socialize—whether you're a parent who needs a night out, an English-language student looking for pressure-free practice opportunities, or a lifelong scholar wanting to expand your intellectual horizons with like-minded folk.

Whatever Happened to Polio? -- 5/3/2007

"Whatever Happened to Polio?" was the name of an interesting exhibit presented by the National Museum of American History before it closed for renovation in September, 2006. The title implies that polio is something that has simply vanished and been mostly forgotten. Would that were true.

Historic Paths Are Strewn with Roses -- 5/1/2007
Beloved for centuries for their practical uses as well as their beauty, Old World roses were brought to the New World by European settlers who desired a link with their old homeland that was both useful and delightful.

When we think of roses today, we most often imagine a bouquet of red, long-stemmed beauties. In the colonial period, those kinds of roses—called Hybrid Tea Roses—were unknown. Early gardeners would have relied on musk roses, damask roses, and others. Ancient in pedigree, some were imported from China and the Middle East.

Business Podcasts and Blogs -- 4/18/2007
There’s a world of business information out there, and it’s free! Many business schools, magazines, and business people offer podcasts and blogs that you can access anywhere you can get on the Internet.

Remembering Jackie Robinson -- 4/13/2007

On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson became the first African American to play for Major League Baseball when he stepped on the field for the Brooklyn Dodgers against the Boston Braves. His superb ball playing didn't guarantee him a welcome. He had to endure harassment from fans and from many of his fellow players. He met this abuse with quiet dignity and fantastic skill on the field.

A (Pre)College Care Package -- 4/6/2007

Is there an acceptance letter in your mailbox this spring? Are you packing your bags for college in August? The college admissions process is all about academics and finances. But have you thought about how you will handle the transition to college life?

Fredericksburg's Fintastical Fish and the Rappahannock River -- 4/5/2007
Fintastic Fish can be found all over the city of Fredericksburg these days. These creative model fish, fashioned by many artists, are a fundraiser for the Friends of the Rappahannock and the Fredericksburg Area Museum.
Come to the Headquarters library on April 14, 2 to 4 pm, to see tabletop versions of colorful fish created by high school students and enjoy light refreshments. From April through August, the fish will be display in front of local businesses. Other Fintastic events include a family-oriented scavenger hunt and a grand finale fish auction, complete with Virginia BBQ.

Fit for a Queen:
The Legacy of Sidney E. King -- 3/28/2007
Sidney E. King's paintings told young Queen Elizabeth II the story of Jamestown during her 1957 visit.

Celebrate National Poetry Month at the Library -- 3/28/2007

In 1996, a group from New York publishing houses, worried about declining sales, got together with a group of poets who were worried about declining interest in poetry. Ideas churned, grants were made, and National Poetry Month was born. Join the celebration, and let poetry flex and strengthen those underused language and memory muscles. Go ahead—read, write, rhyme!

A Time to Mourn -- 3/23/2007
Often the anguish of death is too much to be borne alone. Deep, seemingly perpetual depression is exhausting to the mind and the body as well as the spirit. Know that there are others who have trod the path of grief and are willing to listen to your thoughts and memories, and that there are others who have written works that may show a healing mirror to your own journey.

Many Marvelous Museums -- 3/18/2007
One of our family's favorite year-round activities is a day trip to our area's amazing museums. In the Fredericksburg vicinity we have access to the wonderful array of museums in Washington, D.C. and Richmond, as well as more specialized venues close to home. Read on for our top picks.

A Woman's Health -- 3/17/2007

Historically, women's health care has been limited to reproductive health - other illnesses found women being treated the same way men were treated. In the past 20 to 30 years, researchers have discovered that women's bodies react to illnesses and respond to treatment differently than men's bodies.

Boots and Saddles—
Beginning in Horseback Riding -- 3/8/2007

Brilliant autumn leaves, snow-covered pines, blossoms of a rainy spring, or dusty summer sunshine—the weather outside is always perfect for horseback riding.

Don't Trash That Old Computer! -- 3/1/2007

I don’t have skeletons in my closet; I have old computer components. My tech-savvy son claims he can either fix or remake some of those into other, better, computers, but that still leaves a number of electronic odds and ends that won’t ever hum again and will continue to haunt that closet.

Elsa von Müller Leidecker: Newspaperwoman and Eastern Philosopher -- 2/27/2007
When Elsa von Müller became a cub reporter in the 1920s and entered the man's world of newspapers, she found herself thrust into adventures that led into opium dens, political conventions, and palaces of kings.

The Mediterranean Diet—Che Cos'e'? -- 2/23/2007

Nutrition and weight loss, two hot topics you can't avoid. Pick up any magazine or newspaper, listen to any news show, talk to any doctor, friend, or co-worker and the topic is bound to come up. Oddly, for all our interest in nutrition and weight loss, Americans have never been heavier. Fad diets abound but don't seem to work. How about a new diet—a new diet that's been around for centuries?

Ah, Spa! -- 2/16/2007

Some people may be reviewing their seed and gardening catalogs, making their plans for this year's garden. I'm looking at the recent arrival of several travel magazines featuring spas and resorts…

Big Names in Blues Music: The Cheat Sheet -- 2/2/2007
From the back fields of Mississippi to the hot clubs of New York City, blues men and ladies have spun heartbreaking music from their troubled spirits for over a hundred years.

Listed here are some of America's greatest blues performers past and present, with a quick fact or two on each and a link to more information.

Medal of Honor Winner Was Spotsylvania Native -- 2/1/2007
The huge boulder rolled deliberately in the middle of the road was the first sign of trouble. On May 11, 1889, along a dusty trail in Arizona, an unlikely bunch of desperadoes made off with $28,000 in gold from U.S. Army Paymaster Major Joseph Washington Wham. Buffalo Soldiers from the 24th Infantry were part of the 12-man escort that would go down fighting that day.

Author? Author! -- 1/26/2007
Does the written word seem to flow from you, weaving webs of scintillation and intrigue? Perhaps you have a story to tell, be it your own or another's, an important tale that should be set down and not lost to future generations. Whether you are just beginning the practice of writing down your stories or are an established writer, there are certain sources both online and in print that will give you great support and practical advice.

Show me the money . . . for college! -- 1/25/2007
MONEY is a big consideration when preparing for college. While many people use savings to pay for the rising costs of higher education, there are many sources of aid available to students.

Why pay when there is so much free information and assistance available?

A Century of Concern for Food Safety -- 1/16/2007
2006 was a year in which several outbreaks of e. coli contamination caused many Americans to be concerned about the safety of the food we eat. While there are many food safety problems that need to be addressed by the federal government it could be much, much worse. In fact, it was much worse at one time.

2007: Celebrating Religious Freedom in Fredericksburg -- 1/11/2007

On Sunday, January 14, a parade and ceremony marking the 230th Anniversary of the drafting of the Virginia Act for Religious Freedom was held in Fredericksburg.

Other events this week include the programs The Meaning of Freedom in a Global Context (Thursday, January 18) and Music of Moslem People and Cultures (Friday, January 19), both to be held at the University of Mary Washington. In addition, the Central Rappahannock Regional Library is hosting the photo exhibit Understanding Islam until January 31.

The Life and Art of Paul Cézanne -- 1/5/2007
On Thursday, January 18, at 7 pm, the short PBS film Cézanne in Provence will be shown on the big screen at the Headquarters library theater in Fredericksburg. Come about a half an hour before to enjoy a reception hosted by the Fredericksburg Sister City Association and learn more about our French connections.
This film is part of a free monthly series, Art Films: Short Films Exploring Artists and the Creative Process, co-sponsored by the Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts and the Central Rappahannock Regional Library.

Decorate Your World with Rubberstamps -- 12/28/2006

Ten years ago, if you talked about rubberstamping outside of the West Coast of the U.S., pretty much everyone assumed you were talking about the stamps that businesses use to endorse checks and teachers use to put smiley faces on school papers. Little did most of us realize that there is another whole world of rubberstamps: art stamps. Rubberstamping can now be found on cards, scrapbooks, shirts, dishes, and even cars. In fact, your imagination is the only limit to what you can do with rubberstamps.

New Year's Eve: Wishing Tree Lights Up First Night -- 12/20/2006

Illumination of the Wishing Tree at the Central Rappahannock Regional Library will light up the night during First Night Fredericksburg on Sunday, December 31, 2006. First Night Fredericksburg began in 1994 and has evolved into a major local tradition. An alcohol-free, community celebration of the arts, First Night will take place in more than 100 cities this year.

Bacon's Rebellion:
The Other Jamestown Story -- 12/18/2006
As Jamestown celebrates its 400th anniversary, let's not only look at those earliest years of its colonial history. Before Jamestown's first century was through, the dramatic increase in Virginia colonists meant more friction with Indian tribes. Many of those on the frontier felt cut off and undefended from Indian tribes by the Royal Governor and his troops. When a brash plantation owner named Nathaniel Bacon gathered like-minded men to take matters into their own hands, few could have foreseen that the ending would be Jamestown lying in ashen ruins.

Hanukkah: A Festival of Lights -- 12/15/2006
Hanukkah, or Chanukah, begins on the 25th day of the Jewish calendar month of Kislev, at sundown. Lasting eight days, Hanukkah usually occurs during December, but sometimes begins in November. This Jewish holiday is known as the Festival of Lights, commemorating the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem in 164 B.C. after three years of war. Hanukkah means "dedication."

Lore and More of Christmas Stockings -- 12/11/2006

Learn the legends behind the tradition, find the perfect fillings, and maybe try to create your own stockings for a truly memorable Christmas eve!

Happy Birthday, Melvil! -- 12/8/2006
Every year, on or about the tenth of December, the staff at the John M. Porter Branch Library serves a large "Happy Birthday, Melvil" cake to everyone who walks in the front door. This year we celebrated on the evening of December 11. This was partly a sincere tribute and partly a small joke. Every elementary school student learns about the Dewey Decimal System on her trip to the school library, but few people really appreciate how important classification is.

Our Best Recipes -- 12/2/2006
We asked the library staff what was the one dish that their guests asked for again and again at holiday suppers. Our contributors shared everything from soup to nuts to help make your supper special. There are no main dishes here--just those special sides and desserts that make family gatherings memorable.

The Blue, the Gray, and the Crimson:
A Quick Examination of Civil War Medicine -- 12/1/2006
When Christmas morning dawned in December of 1862, the sun rose over the battered town of Fredericksburg. Once a bustling colonial port, more recently a pleasant stop for travelers by coach and boat, on this day, the little town lay in ruins. And, if the brick and mortar firmaments suffered such catastrophic damage, what of the flesh and bone of the human armies that had battled there mere weeks before? What became of the wounded who survived the first days of battle?

Savor Coffee's Many Flavors -- 11/18/2006
With the coming of artisan roasters in the last few decades, coffee has become more than just a "cuppa joe." People want to know more about the beverage they savor, flavor, or just plain swill. Read on for a bit of vocab, a touch of history, and a list of local, independent purveyors of the blessed bean.

LibraryElf is a Wish Come True -- 11/8/2006
How many of us have wished, late at night and surrounded by dirty dishes, that we had an elf who appeared at the stroke of midnight to clean them for us? Well, now library patrons have an elf of sorts to help them keep their library accounts in the clear.

Come to the Parade! -- 11/3/2006

The first weekend in December is filled with brass bands, baton twirlers, antique cars, parade horses, motorcycles, and so much more. Come to the Christmas parades and see your community march, toot, prance, and roar its way into another holiday season with Santa Claus as the guest of honor.

OORAH: National Marine Corps Museum Opens November 13 -- 11/3/2006
The film Flags of Our Fathers tells the story of the flag raised over Iwo Jima in perhaps the most famous of wartime photographs. But the actual flag itself is now on display in the National Marine Corps Museum, opening in November at Quantico Marine Corps Base. The museum is dedicated not just to that story, but all the stories of every Marine from 1775 down to the present day.

Travel Smart, Travel Healthy -- 10/26/2006

You've planned your dream vacation. You have your hotel reservations, airline tickets, ATM card, international cell phone, and guide books. Maybe you have your Bermuda shorts and white socks. But have you prepared for exposure to health risks? Do you even know what the risks are?

Online Auctions for Fun and Profit -- 10/20/2006
Game tickets, antique china, power tools, jewelry, laptops, cars, pianos--they're all available online, new or used, cheap or pricey. If you haven't learned the in's and out's of the online auction yet, this is a good time to start. With the holidays just around the corner, think of online auctions as another option for finding gifts, decorations, and those gotta-have's that always seem to pop up around this time of the year. Have a house bursting at the seams with too much good stuff already? Downsize online, and pick up a little cash to cover the holiday bills.

Yoga Basics -- 10/13/2006

Does the word yoga conjure visions of contorted leotard-clad gym denizens? Popular in community centers and health clubs around the country as a form of exercise, yoga's real roots stem from the word's meaning. It is generally translated as "the union of the individual atma (loosely translated to mean soul) with Paramatma, the universal soul."*

Get Those Photos Off the Memory Card:
The Art of Digital Photo Organization -- 10/6/2006
So, you've invested in a digital camera, or perhaps you are going to make the switch from film to digital this holiday season. Once you start busily snapping away (after all, being able to take lots and lots and lots of pictures was one of the reasons you love digital, right?) what do you do with those pictures? Do you let your memory cards become the digital equivalent of those heaping shoe boxes full of developed pictures in the closet?

Fighting for Civil Rights: A Battleground in the Old Dominion -- 10/2/2006
From now through the end of December, 2006, the Fredericksburg Area Museum is hosting a traveling exhibit, Civil Rights in Virginia. Designed by the Virginia Historical Society, the image-filled panels and artifacts draw visitors back to a time that was much bleaker for our country's African-Americans.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Terrific Recipes -- 9/22/2006
Festival time! Hispanic Heritage Month brings family and friends together to celebrate their culture with everyone. NOAH's annual Hispanic Festival will be held at Fredericksburg's Hurkamp Park on Saturday, October 7, from 10 am to 5 pm. Read on for tips on Hispanic cooking and a list of books filled with familiar and exotic recipes.

Celebrating World Vegetarian Day -- 9/20/2006

October 1 is World Vegetarian Day, a day that has been observed since 1977 to celebrate the ethical, environmental, health, and humanitarian benefits of a vegetarian lifestyle.

Gleaning Dusty Treasures -- 9/16/2006
Got itchy wheels on the weekend? Feel like becoming a low-budget Indiana Jones or Marion Ravenwood? Hit the flea markets to find bargains on just about anything that can be tagged, bagged, and toted. Your wanderings may take you to New York, London, Paris, or the Virginia Bazaar in Caroline County.

Beginning in Bird Watching -- 9/9/2006

If you enjoy any outdoor activity—hiking, boating, or just strolling downtown—why not add bird watching to your itinerary? Our area has an abundance of birds. The Rappahannock draws migrating waterfowl, and our woods, tree-lined streets, and backyards provide more safe havens for these amazing creatures. Read on to get started.

The Germania Mill Blaze -- 8/31/2006
Two friendly competitors in the baker and confectionery business joined to establish the first Germania Mill in 1866. Success was theirs until a conflagration erupted on a quiet Sunday afternoon in 1876.
This image appears on HistoryPoint courtesy of the Fredericksburg Museum and Cultural Center.

September Is Emergency Preparedness Month -- 8/23/2006
For residents of the Mid-Atlantic States, NOAA reports that hurricane season is just coming on strong. The slow response to Hurricane Katrina by both civilians and government authorities should act as a warning to people everywhere to have their own plans made for emergency situations.

Iran: Tradition and Revolution -- 8/22/2006
Curious about Iran? Read on for a very quick history and recommended reading for those who wish to learn more.

Choose Your Perfect Picnic -- 8/18/2006

The long, lazy days of summer aren't quite over, and in Virginia, picnic weather continues through most of the fall, to include tailgate season. The library's shelves are brimming with cookbooks of all kinds to suit most every taste. Come browse our shelves, and try out some new recipes for your next friendly get-together in the sweet sunshine.

Back-to-School Bargains -- 8/11/2006
Sure, clothes can be the most interesting part of preparing for the new school year, but really all the cute tops and cool shoes in the world won't get you better scores in chemistry or do a thing for your grade point average. When push comes to shove, research papers and standardized tests won't take care of themselves.

The library has resources to help you find the right stuff to make the grades you want.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer:
A Different Kind of Cancer -- 8/7/2006
Until May of 2006, very few of us had ever even heard of Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) let alone knew anything about it. But on May 7, a TV station in Western Washington State broadcast a story about IBC, and – fortunately – the story has been spreading ever since. In fact, the Seattle TV station Web site has had more than 10 million hits, and online sites such as snopes.com have been asked if IBC is an urban legend. It is not.

Ahoy, the Godspeed! -- 8/1/2006
On August 19 and 20, 2006, Aquia Landing will host the Discovery Days Festival. With Jamestown's historic ship standing majestically offshore, the Landing Party brings the fun to you and your family. Come see Native American, African American, Elizabethan, colonial, and Civil War re-enactors show how people in older times lived in the History Village.

E.S.O.L.: English for Speakers of Other Languages -- 7/27/2006
Immigrants to America come here with hopes and dreams for their futures. They are willing to work hard, but to succeed they need to become proficient in the language of their new country. For over a hundred years, libraries, churches, and other social institutions have been places where newly arrived immigrants could go to learn English. The tradition continues today.

Nature's Bounty: Tomatoes -- 7/27/2006
You had the foresight to plant tomatoes in May and your efforts are being rewarded with wonderful, red ripe tomatoes. You've used them in salads, BLTs, chow-chow, maybe a sauce or juice...just keeping up with the day's harvest. What now?

"Failure is Impossible": The Fight for Women's Suffrage -- 7/20/2006
The struggle for women's right to vote in the United States is a long one, dating all the way back to the colonial era when, in January 1648, Margaret Brent demanded two votes before the Maryland Assembly: one vote for herself, as a landholder, and one vote as power of attorney for Lord Calvert. Her request was denied, but she is one of the first women to ask for the vote. It was not until the nineteenth century when the movement really began to take hold.

I Thought YOU Packed the Water Bottles -- 7/6/2006
Due to the stupidity revealed in this story, our names have been changed to protect our identities. My husband, Ed, will henceforth be referred to as "Herb," and I will be "Sally." Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale, a tale of a fateful trip… It started on a beautiful, warm fall day. A really warm fall day. It just got warmer and warmer. Okay, it was a hot fall day. The trail marker said five miles to Exhaustion Peak. "Five miles," I thought. "That's a good length." "C'mon, Herb, let's do this trail," I said enthusiastically.

And poor, trusting Herb said, "Okay."

A Visit to Aquia Church -- 6/28/2006
Travelers who take a turn off of busy Route 1 near Aquia Harbor find themselves viewing a living monument to colonial Virginia's past. Protected from the surrounding sprawl by its location, nestled on a hilltop surrounded by trees, this beautiful church dates to the decades before the Revolutionary War. Its long and sometimes difficult history--preserved in bricks, stone, and written memories, includes tales of preachers, firebrands, soldiers, and star-crossed lovers.

Discovering Adult Education: Advice from a Teacher -- 6/23/2006
One of my part-time jobs--and one of my passions--is adult education. There are classes for those who only need several credits, for those who do not test well, for those who have a long way to go before they can even think about taking the GED test, and for those who are speakers of other languages and want to improve their abilities to understand, speak, read, and write English.

Ladies – Conquer that Honey-Do List Yourself! -- 6/21/2006
Many companies have finally realized that there are women out there who need information and supplies in order to keep their homes in top working condition. Many women are turning to home repair as a hobby.

A Visit Downeast: A Reader's Map -- 6/15/2006
In our never-ending quest to explore new worlds, some of us are making the trek downeast this summer. You might know this place as the state of Maine.

Thrill of a Lifetime -- 6/13/2006
For some of us, just strapping on a pair of roller blades is scary enough, but for many others the thrills need to get higher, wilder, and more exciting.

Hey, Honey--What's the Buzz? -- 6/8/2006
One day in late May I looked out the window and saw an enormous thick cloud of bees in front of our barn. What should I do?! Shut the windows and cower? Call the exterminator? Call the nearest beekeeper? I called the nearest beekeeper. (He was just in the next room.) If you haven't got the beekeeping bug, you might not be pleased to have a swarm of bees in your yard, but to my family, it means honey!

Ellwood: A Crossroads in History -- 6/1/2006
For more than two hundred years, this Spotsylvania farm has stood as a witness to Virginia history. Originally carved from land given to colonial Governor Alexander Spotswood, Ellwood willingly hosted two armies-that of the Marquis de Lafayette during the Revolutionary War and General Robert E. Lee during the Battle of Chancellorsville in 1863. However, in 1864, during the Battle of the Wilderness, Ellwood became the headquarters for Generals Gouverneur K. Warren and Ambrose E. Burnside. General Grant took his position a few hundred yards away from the house, at a spot still called Grant's Knoll.

Be Kind to Animals All Year Long -- 5/23/2006
Be Kind to Animals Week is celebrated each May. Started by the American Humane Society, 2006 is their 92nd year of promoting loving and responsible pet ownership. Whether you wish to show your kindness by adopting a pet, volunteering at a shelter, or taking excellent care of the pets you already own, the library can help you help the animals.

Goats Got Your Goat? -- 5/17/2006
When my husband suggested we buy a goat, I talked him out of it. From all I'd heard, a goat would be more trouble than it would be worth. They escape all the time. They eat everything they shouldn't. They get into all kinds of trouble. I knew a woman who had a goat that was always getting out and loved to climb on cars, leaving roofs and hoods covered with hoof-shaped dents. What would we do with a goat anyway?

Ethnobotany in the Amazon and Beyond -- 5/16/2006
This webliography accompanies the screening of "Shaman's Apprentice," the first of three films presented in the Rappahannock Film Fest.

Exploring the Polar Regions -- 5/16/2006
The frozen climes of the polar regions hold a mysterious allure for explorers and travelers. Their beauty and remoteness have drawn dozens of explorers out beyond their points of no return. Glaciers and active volcanoes make for a forbidding and dramatic landscape. Today, cruise lines and national parks give adventure travelers a glimpse of this icy world.

Paddle Your Canoe -- 5/15/2006
Whether you choose still and peaceful waters or the excitement of whitewater rapids, canoeing is a pastime that can give great joy to you and your family.

Photography for Everyone -- 5/15/2006
Of course you want to have nice photos to remember those special occasions, but perhaps you keep chopping off the tops of people's heads! Or you fit the whole family into the picture, but they're so far away they could be anybody's family! Perhaps you are already taking nice photographs, but you want to improve your skills. This guide has something for every photographer.

Alum Spring Park: A Walk Through History -- 5/15/2006
Alum Spring Park is a 34-acre woodland retreat off Greenbriar Drive with a playground and hiking trails. Its sandstone cliff, also known as the Alum Spring Rock, is 400 feet long and 40 feet high. The Park also is one of Fredericksburg's most historic sites. Through the centuries those who came before us, the remembered and the forgotten, were here.

The Virginia Renaissance Faire -- 5/15/2006
Come to the Virginia Renaissance Faire, to be held weekends May 20 through June 18, at Lake Anna Winery in Spotsylvania. Expect terrific food, lively music, shopping opportunities, and talented performers who are committed to sharing their enjoyment of Merrie Olde England with you. Admission is set at a bargain price, so why not gather friends and family for a day of delights?

Getting Out the Words: Resources on Stuttering -- 5/12/2006
Bo Jackson. Winston Churchill. Marilyn Monroe. Alan Turing. Nicholas Brendon. John Updike. James Earl Jones.
All of these famous people, some of whom make their living in front of the cameras, have the same difficulty-they are stutterers.
Stuttering Awareness Week occurs each May. Take a few minutes to learn more about this common problem which affects people of all ages.

Hosting a Family Reunion -- 5/4/2006

May is an excellent time to plan a summer family get-together. Reaching across the generations, a family reunion gives relatives of all ages and from many places a chance to see each other and better understand their family roots. Would you like to host a family reunion? Check here for books and ideas on getting started.

Gaslight!: The Story of the Fredericksburg Gas Company -- 5/1/2006
It was on Tuesday night, October 24, 1854, that the first trial lighting up of a number of stores and houses with the manufactured gas occurred--and succeeded admirably. The enthusiastic editor of the Fredericksburg News wrote: "Hurrah for the Gas! Brilliant, Beautiful Light--its radiance streaming far and wide magically illuminating the darkness with the sparkling lustre of its flame."

We're Going on a Letterbox Hunt -- 4/28/2006
Imagine this: you are browsing the stacks at the downtown Central Rappahannock Regional Library. You come across a small, waterproof case tucked into one of the shelves. Curious about its contents, you open it to find an attractive, handmade stamp, a small notebook, and possibly other goodies, such as addressed postcards or notes. An enclosed letter explains that you have discovered a "Letterbox."

Autism: A National Health Emergency -- 4/20/2006
Autism is a neurological disorder that strikes an estimated one in five hundred children every year, usually within the first three years of life. These children's contact with the world differs radically from what is considered normal. They may be unable to communicate or form meaningful relationships with others. In April 2002, a congressional hearing declared autism to be a national health emergency.

The Remarkable Albert Einstein -- 4/12/2006
Can you imagine where the scientific world would be if it weren't for geniuses such as Sir Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein? Indeed, it might be said that Einstein is the modern Newton. Sir Isaac Newton laid the foundation for calculus, applied mathematics, and physics, while Einstein built upon those discoveries to take them to a new level astonishing to mankind.

Just Run -- 4/8/2006
I live in downtown Fredericksburg. Every morning, faithful as the songbirds that greet the dawn, another kind of being makes its rounds in our neighborhood. As my husband and I groggily sip our coffee, we hear snatches of conversation, laughter, and the steady pounding of feet on the sidewalk. These are the runners, the joggers, and the walkers, taking a breath of fresh air down by the river, running past our Victorian home. They seem to have found a wonderful way to create healthier lives for themselves in the company of friends.

Caring for the Caregiver -- 4/1/2006
The man in this photo might need a caregiver's help, or he could be the primary caregiver for a family member. Thousands of families open their homes to chronically ill and simply lonely family members. It's a gesture of love and commitment, but care giving can bring emotional hardships as well as rewards. Even the most loving relatives can feel burned out after months or years of providing care in their homes.

City's 2006 Wall of Honor Recipients Served Their Community -- 3/30/2006
On April 11, 2006, five new names will be added to Fredericksburg's Wall of Honor. The 2006 honorees include a civil rights worker, two respected educators, a businessman who increased the stock of the community, and a brave young lady who never let a painful medical condition limit her ability to share her gifts with others.

Freeman Funk: Third City Manager of Fredericksburg (Part I) -- 3/28/2006
Freeman Funk was City of Fredericksburg city manager for 23 years - from 1955 until 1978 - and later served five years on City Council, retiring in 1998. After leaving public service in 1978, Mr. Funk was a consulting engineer. His first wife, Frances Gill Funk, is deceased. Mr. Funk and his wife, Mary Frances Blackburn Moore Funk, live on Franklin Street in a house that Mr. Funk built in its entirety. This is the transcript of the first tape in a series beginning May 14 and continuing on May 21, May 28, and ending September 9, 1999.

Freeman Funk: Third City Manager of Fredericksburg (Part II) -- 3/27/2006
Freeman Funk was City of Fredericksburg city manager for 23 years - from 1955 until 1978 - and later served five years on City Council, retiring in 1998. After leaving public service in 1978, Mr. Funk was a consulting engineer. His first wife, Frances Gill Funk, is deceased. Mr. Funk and his wife, Mary Frances Blackburn Moore Funk, live on Franklin Street in a house that Mr. Funk built in its entirety. This is the transcript of the first tape in a series beginning May 14 and continuing on May 21, May 28, and ending September 9, 1999.

Freeman Funk: Third City Manager of Fredericksburg (Part III) -- 3/26/2006
Freeman Funk was City of Fredericksburg city manager for 23 years - from 1955 until 1978 - and later served five years on City Council, retiring in 1998. After leaving public service in 1978, Mr. Funk was a consulting engineer. His first wife, Frances Gill Funk, is deceased. Mr. Funk and his wife, Mary Frances Blackburn Moore Funk, live on Franklin Street in a house that Mr. Funk built in its entirety. This is the transcript of the first tape in a series beginning May 14 and continuing on May 21, May 28, and ending September 9, 1999.

Freeman Funk: Third City Manager of Fredericksburg (Part IV) -- 3/25/2006
Freeman Funk was City of Fredericksburg city manager for 23 years - from 1955 until 1978 - and later served five years on City Council, retiring in 1998. After leaving public service in 1978, Mr. Funk was a consulting engineer. His first wife, Frances Gill Funk, is deceased. Mr. Funk and his wife, Mary Frances Blackburn Moore Funk, live on Franklin Street in a house that Mr. Funk built in its entirety. This is the transcript of the first tape in a series beginning May 14 and continuing on May 21, May 28, and ending September 9, 1999.

Freeman Funk: Third City Manager of Fredericksburg (Part V) -- 3/24/2006
Freeman Funk was City of Fredericksburg city manager for 23 years - from 1955 until 1978 - and later served five years on City Council, retiring in 1998. After leaving public service in 1978, Mr. Funk was a consulting engineer. His first wife, Frances Gill Funk, is deceased. Mr. Funk and his wife, Mary Frances Blackburn Moore Funk, live on Franklin Street in a house that Mr. Funk built in its entirety. This is the transcript of the first tape in a series beginning May 14 and continuing on May 21, May 28, and ending September 9, 1999.

Freeman Funk: Third City Manager of Fredericksburg (Part VI) -- 3/23/2006
Freeman Funk was City of Fredericksburg city manager for 23 years - from 1955 until 1978 - and later served five years on City Council, retiring in 1998. After leaving public service in 1978, Mr. Funk was a consulting engineer. His first wife, Frances Gill Funk, is deceased. Mr. Funk and his wife, Mary Frances Blackburn Moore Funk, live on Franklin Street in a house that Mr. Funk built in its entirety. This is the transcript of the first tape in a series beginning May 14 and continuing on May 21, May 28, and ending September 9, 1999.

Your Lifetime Reading Plan -- 3/20/2006
Librarians repeat a mantra to read what you like and never apologize for your reading tastes. After all, the library is about reading, in all its variations, whether for entertainment or information. And, why each of us reads is intensely personal. As Nancy Pearl states in Book Lust, her fabulous survey of books, "Reading has always brought me pure joy. I read to encounter new worlds and new ways of looking at our own world, I read to enlarge my horizons, to gain wisdom, to experience beauty, to understand myself better, and for the pure wonderment of it all. I read and marvel over how writers use language in ways I never thought of. I read for company, and for escape."

Daffodil Time 2006 -- 3/17/2006

These lines written in 1804 by English poet William Wordsworth could also be written in 2006 to describe the 72nd Annual Daffodil Show, presented by the Garden Club of Virginia and sponsored by the Rappahannock Valley Garden Club.

Rappahannock Romance: Planning a Local Wedding -- 3/11/2006
If you met here and fell in love here, why not marry here? The region has many lovely venues, whether you prefer a riverside retreat, an historic site, or a formal ballroom. Having your wedding in your community also has advantages for those who have never visited our region as well as local guests.

(Image provided courtesy of the Kenmore Inn)

The 50 Book Challenge -- 3/3/2006
The premise is simple: just challenge yourself to read at least 50 books in 2006. For my part, I had no idea how much I had read in 2005 because I didn't think to keep count. My reading history is rather fuzzy from last year - it was continuous, certainly, but not documented, counted, nor celebrated.

Johnny P. Johnson: Accomplished Local Artist, Teacher and Civil Rights Activist (Part II) -- 2/20/2006
This is Part 2 of an oral history interview with Johnny P. Johnson, Fredericksburg artist, teacher, civil rights activist, on July 1, 1997, at his art studio at 1311 Charles St., Fredericksburg. This interview was conducted on August 14,1997. This interview was suggested, in part, by Mr. Johnson's personal and yet objective picture of the civil rights movement in Fredericksburg as related during a 1997 Black History Month program.

Fredericksburg's New Homeless Shelter Celebrates Its First Year -- 2/15/2006

It has been one year since the new Thurman Brisben Center, "The House That Love Built," the area's only family-oriented homeless shelter, opened its doors here in Fredericksburg. A "Gala for the House That Love Built" will be held at the Riverside Dinner Theater on February 18th to benefit the shelter. The gala features "Ragtime," a production that garnered close to a dozen Tony Award nominations on Broadway.

By Any Means Necessary: The Life and Legacy of Malcolm X -- 2/6/2006
One of the most fascinating and significant civil rights leaders in the United States was Malcolm X. In his short lifespan, he had a great effect on the African-American community, and his influence is still strong today.

Graphic Novels and the Adult Reader -- 2/3/2006

A graphic novel should tell a story that is as compelling as an all print novel, but the illustrations are an essential part of the story. Many of the elements that make an interesting motion picture are present in a good graphic novel: good writing, strong plotline, memorable characters, good dialogue, and excellent art direction.

Welcome to The New World -- 2/2/2006
Now in theaters, The New World dramatizes early contacts between Native people of Virginia and the Jamestown settlers. On January 31, 2006, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences today honored the film with an Oscar nomination for Emmanuel Lubezki in the category of Achievement in Cinematography. The New World is indeed beautiful, but how much of it is historically accurate?

Strokes: Know the Risk Factors -- 1/25/2006

Many people are not aware that strokes are the third leading cause of death in the United States. Every 45 seconds someone has a stroke. Strokes are the number one reason for nursing home admissions. And, even more chilling is the fact that more than 50% of all stroke victims had no warning signs.

Multiple Sclerosis -- 1/25/2006

Lola Folana, Teri Garr, Alan Osmond, Lena Horne, Montel Williams, and Annette Funicello. Know what they all have in common besides being famous people? They all have multiple sclerosis. And, so do thousands of others including senators, athletes, authors, and people from all walks of life.

Tourette’s Syndrome -- 1/23/2006
Although many of us have seen movies where the person with Tourette’s suddenly shouts out obscene words or phrases (called coprolalia), this is actually very rare. More common are vocal tics such as barking, grunting, sniffing, and repeating back what they have just heard (echolalia).

The Mozart Mystique: In Celebration of His 250th Birthday -- 1/20/2006

This month marks the 250th anniversary of Mozart's birth. Around the country and around the world, people are getting together to celebrate his musical genius. Centuries later we can still enjoy his compositions, both serious and comedic, and marvel at all that he achieved in his too brief life.

The CRRL NonProfit Center -- 1/19/2006
Whether you wish to help run an existing nonprofit or start your own, the Central Rappahannock Regional Library has recently acquired a new collection, The NonProfit Center, which has the tools to help with challenges faced by nonprofit managers.

William Forrest Halsey: Silent Scenarist of Fredericksburg -- 1/3/2006
Forrest Halsey (who did not utilize the "William" assigned by his parents at his birth in New Jersey on the ninth of November, 1878) was a grandson of John and Martha Whittemore, onetime residents of Fredericksburg's imposing Hanover Street mansion, Federal Hill. Well-known both in Fredericksburg and in international literary circles during the two decades of 1910-1930, he is to most--like his silent movies--a nearly forgotten shadow.

Waging Peace in the Streets -- 12/30/2005
We've heard for several years now, particularly this last year, that gangs are here -- not just in big urban areas. State and local task forces have been created to work together and to partner with community groups.

The Giving Tree -- 12/13/2005
When you walk into the lobby of Headquarters or the Porter, Salem Church, and Snow branches, you are now greeted with a festive holiday tree. But it is not just any tree – indeed, this is a true giving tree, sponsored by the local Habitat for Humanity chapter, which is conducting a fundraiser this holiday season called “Home for the Holidays.”

Happy Birthday, Beethoven! -- 12/10/2005
This week we celebrate the anniversary of a tremendous musician who brought his own extraordinary genius to what is now known as classical music.

Who Was Who at the Fredericksburg Gun Factory? -- 12/2/2005
Little survives from the Fredericksburg Gun Factory. While Gunnery Springs near Original Walker-Grant Middle School approximates the location of the Gun Factory, it does not indicate how the factory operated on a daily basis nor does it explain the factory's significance to Fredericksburg and the colonial cause in the American Revolutionary War. But we, the researchers and lovers of history, benefit from the remnants of the historical imprint of the factory left in historical documents.

Celebrate Christmas With Good Queen Bess -- 12/2/2005
As the Christmas season of 1564 approaches, 31-year-old Elizabeth Tudor has been reigning over England for six years as Queen Elizabeth I. Karen Harper, author of the Elizabeth I mystery series, sets the stage for an Elizabethan Christmas in The Queene's Christmas:

"This year by order of your Queen London shall have a Yuletide festival of old...we shall have a Frost Fair again if God willing the Thames freezes over..."