IK Multimedia's Killer Plug In Deal

Hey friends, EK here, and I’ve got to share this deal that I’ve been taking advantage of for the past 2 months. It’s IK Multimedia’s 25th Anniversary and they’ve got a plug in deal where if you buy one from this page, you get another one free for every 1000 people to participate. The counter was at 21 free plugins at the time of this publication. I’ve loaded up on their entire collection for a fraction of what it would have cost outside this deal. As I try each of these plugins out, I’ll be uploading video reviews, so stay tuned, and go create.

⚜️ SCOTT WHARTON: FREDERICKSBURG, THE NEXT CREATOR'S CAPITAL! ⚜️

FREDERICKSBURG, THE NEXT CREATOR'S CAPITAL

WRITTEN BY SCOTT WHARTON

Fredericksburg, Virginia started out as a colonial-era town that predates the Revolutionary War. It has always been a place of importance both regionally and nationally. There is so much history in Fredericksburg, that if you were to go to the library and search for books on the area you would find shelves and shelves of them. Fredericksburg has always been a special place. Today the area is still creating history as it is the home to a colony of creators on the front lines of a Cultural Revolution! I see Fredericksburg continuing to grow into a place that harbors artists of all crafts from all around the globe (or across the flat earth). 'The Burg' is a Renaissance Town in a world that needs artistic and cultural change NOW.

Fredericksburg was home to the impressionist late 1800’s artist Gary Melcher's studio, which rests atop a hill overlooking the Rappahannock River - perfectly representing the creative perspective that 'The Burg' provides. The area is covered by National Park land that supplies serene inspiration with its quiet pleasant woods and trails. The scars of our Nation’s past and the Civil War become today’s fertile grounds through which creativity is inspired. Some parks even house amphitheaters for local live productions!

Fredericksburg (also abbreviated as FXBG) is the home of The Riverside Center for The Performing Arts and Riverside Dinner Theater - Fredericksburg's main stage for musical and dramatic productions. There are several art galleries such as The PONSHOP Studio and the Fredericksburg Center for Creative Arts which are great hubs for events and networking with area artists. It seems downtown Fredericksburg keeps growing each year with new art studios, and the City has always prided themselves in promoting local artists.

Fredericksburg is also home to multiple music venues like Hard Times Café at Four Mile Fork which hosts local and nationally prominent bands and acts all the time. We even have our own stand-up comedy shows here at multiple venues such as those at the Fredericksburg Comedy Zone.

The truth is Fredericksburg is already on the map in many ways! But where are the famous Fredericksburg creatives, performers, and artists? How come us residents in the ‘Burg are always focusing our attention on creative media from elsewhere versus the amazing talent we have right here at home? We need to bring the spotlight on our local performers and creatives!

There's a powerful energy in Fredericksburg that's undeniable. When you allow yourself to be open to this energy, beautiful creative inspiration will swell within you. Every day more folks are waking up to this energy and their own creative power. Small business is booming, buskers are serenading, painters are painting, the creativity is contagious! Fredericksburg is evolving into everything I always wanted it to be growing up - a creative Mecca that breeds the next artistic wave. If we continue to inspire, push and promote one another, then together we can construct a creator's kingdom, where we all prosper and flourish!

We must come together and work cooperatively and collaboratively though. We can't let our egos get in the way… there is more strength in numbers versus being alone! We need to echo each other when possible! Together we can help promote and participate in amazing local community events and truly get to know our neighbors and fellow community members. Through coming together with the power of art, music, and culture we can affect social change here in Fredericksburg, and help spread the light throughout our wonderful City! I'm excited to share this vision with YOU, my friends!

Scott Wharton is a stand-up comedian from Fredericksburg Virginia. When he is not busy doing comedy or writing, Scott prefers to explore the country on a Greyhound bus or exploring his mind with entheogenic substances. He is always accompanied by his dog BO.

CHECK OUT MORE SCOTT WHARTON BY VISITING THEIR SOCIAL MEDIA AT:

FB:https://www.facebook.com/ComedianScottWharton/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/this_isnot_scott/ 

⚾️ BASEBALL COMING TO THE 'BURG ⚾️

⚾️ BASEBALL COMING TO THE 'BURG ⚾️

WRITTEN BY SCOTT WHARTON

THE GOOD NEWS

FINALLY, sports are coming to Fredericksburg, in the form of a minor league baseball club located next to the Fredericksburg Expo Center in Celebrate Virginia South!

I've always been a sports fanatic, and even remember participating in youth athletics with the County Parks and Recreation department as a kid. Although I enjoy other sports like Football and Basketball more than I enjoy Baseball, the news of a new minor league baseball stadium being built in Fredericksburg is electrifying! 

I'm excited to see our national pastime come to my beloved hometown and recognize the important role that a new Minor League Baseball stadium will play in our community. As a kid, I remember going with my father to see the Richmond Braves (now the Richmond Flying Squirrels) play. I have fond childhood memories chomping on peanuts and catching foul balls… and it’s so exciting that a new generation of families will be able to bond over the sport as well. Imagine how many happy families will be able to enjoy a day out at the ballgame in The Burg!

This stadium is a pretty big project! According to the Free Lance-Star, the Baseball Stadium cost $35 million dollars to construct and had to be funded by several groups and persons who organized a Founder’s Club to finance the project.

Perhaps the greatest benefit of the new Baseball stadium is that it may offer more regional unification. I’ve long felt that people from Fredericksburg are unsure of which region they belong to or not… we have always kind have been stuck in the middle of Washington D.C and Richmond. However, now with a stadium of our OWN, we can truly represent our unique region and the diverse culture, heritage, and legacy that we cherish as residents of the ‘Burg.

Not only will the stadium house a minor league baseball team it will play host to high school, college, and amateur athletics along with concerts and other major events too! Yet all this exciting new recreational opportunity comes at a cost- nearly $1.05 million a year that the City of Fredericksburg has to pay the Stadium Owners with a lease commitment of 30 years. In the grand scheme of things, I see this being a fair deal and beneficial to the economic growth of Fredericksburg. Sometimes you have to spend money to make money, and this is a perfect example. As long as the venue is utilized to its fullest potential, I don't see this project backfiring on a city already on the rise!

WHAT EFFECT WILL THE NEW BASEBALL STADIUM HAVE ON FREDERICKSBURG? 

Many residents, including myself, are interested to see what potential effect the stadium and baseball team will have on local economic growth and tourism. It’s likely that it will draw people from out of town to visit Fredericksburg and spend their money here at local restaurants, bars, businesses, and other local establishments during game days. Perhaps the team’s players will live and work here, helping make Fredericksburg a popular travel & living destination for families around the country. The stadium will create jobs as well as provide an opportunity for local businesses to be vendors, advertise, and grow.

In order for all this to work out, the stadium should be constantly in use bringing in revenue whether that’s from the Minor League Baseball club, concerts, or local sports and community events. The stadium could also be the start of a training facility… imagine when Washington D.C Nationals players are rehabbing an injury, you could very well see them in Fredericksburg recouping and practicing. The fact the stadium will be open for concerts also means that we can bet on famous and well-known artists and bands coming into town more frequently! This will add so much buzz and energy to the artistic revolution and Renaissance that is creeping on the area. The stadium is a stepping stone to making Fredericksburg the next Richmond or Atlanta.

THE REAL POSSIBILITIES: 

A baseball team and stadium in FXBG will inspire many youths to pursue baseball or other sports dreams and learn the importance of teamwork and community. By having a stadium locally available, youth from all over Fredericksburg should be able to engage their athletic passions, talents, and dreams! It will allow our area’s children a chance to see what potential opportunities can be there if you work hard at chasing your dreams and accomplishing your goals. ESPN can be great for inspiration, but there's NOTHING like meeting athletic heroes in real life and watching them perform in person!

Hosting sporting events, concerts and other large community events will help unify the community in another way. Sports are an important part of a city's culture. Bringing Baseball to The Burg helps complete the circle of leisure and entertainment options that the area continues to provide and offer. Now both the city and the club will grow together… It is perfect timing for our city on the rise!

For More Information on the Baseball Stadium, please visit the official website at http://www.fredericksburgbaseball.com/

Location: Carl D Silver Parkway next to Fredericksburg Expo Center in Celebrate Virginia! South

FB: https://www.facebook.com/FredericksburgBaseball/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/fxbgbaseball20
IG: https://www.instagram.com/fredericksburgbaseball/

Scott Wharton is a stand-up comedian from Fredericksburg Virginia. When he is not busy doing comedy or writing, Scott prefers to explore the country on a Greyhound bus or exploring his mind. He is always accompanied by his dog BO.

CHECK OUT MORE SCOTT WHARTON BY VISITING THEIR SOCIAL MEDIA AT:

FB:https://www.facebook.com/ComedianScottWharton/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/this_isnot_scott/ 

SCOTT WHARTON: ANTIQUITY AROUND US

ANTIQUITY AROUND US
FREDERICKSBURG VA 

Written by Scott Wharton

One of my favorite things to do in Downtown Fredericksburg is to explore our many antique stores. Breathing in the aroma of old fabric and rusted metal, while looking at all the organized clutter dispersed throughout the shop in a seemingly chaotic manner always leaves me wrapped in an overwhelming feeling of warm nostalgia upon entering. It’s like teleporting through time with the opportunity to be able to observe so many mementos from the past.

Not only do these establishments sell antiques, but they also help to provide vendor space for thrifters, jewelers, folk artists, and other shops like The Grove of Brite Blessings located within Caroline Square.

I love digging through these places because it’s impossible to digest everything no matter how often you visit, nor how long you stay. There's always something new (or should I say old?) to find, whether it is an old ship mast, a Civil War relic, or a Chinese Opium pipe. I lust for every typewriter that I lay my eyes upon when I'm exploring Blue Shark Antiques & Collectibles or South Worth Antiques & Rare Books. I find myself fixated to the strangest odds and ends, items that surely fascinated others only decades before.

It's important that my generation and future generations understand the important relevance of antique shops to culture and community. No two stores are the same! Each individual antique shop carries its own special items and has its own distinctive design and layout. We should support them like other small businesses! They are just like any other privately-owned mom and pop businesses…

However, unlike most stores, the antique store carries various rare and uncommon items that often are not found anywhere else! Walking through an antique shop is very much like visiting your favorite museum as both provide the opportunity and experience to interact and SEE history. Unlike the museum though, the antique shop allows the visitor the ability to bring history home with them through the purchase of these pieces of the past. It's one thing to understand history, it is another thing to touch and feel the history! Fredericksburg is an antique in and of itself. Once we learn to appreciate items from the past, then we can learn to appreciate our town, clean up the rust, get rid of the dust, add a fresh coat of paint and remake it in our own image while preserving a piece of history proudly.

Scott Wharton is a stand-up comedian from Fredericksburg Virginia. When he is not busy doing comedy or writing, Scott prefers to explore the country on a Greyhound bus or exploring his mind with entheogenic substances. He is always accompanied by his dog BO.

CHECK OUT MORE SCOTT WHARTON BY VISITING THEIR SOCIAL MEDIA AT:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/ComedianScottWharton/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/this_isnot_scott/

⚒ 5 WAYS TO GET INVOLVED IN BUILDING YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY! ⚒

WRITTEN BY: ZACH CHAMP, CONNECT WITH ME ON LINKEDIN!

Originally published at https://www.hoodiegoodies.com on November 26, 2018.

YOU HAVE ACTIVE OWNERSHIP & STAKE IN YOUR COMMUNITY

It is no understatement when we say we live in interesting and very anxious times politically and socially. People are very divided across the spectrum, and many people feel their voice is unheard. Not only that, but many people feel hopeless and powerless. You should know that is simply not true.

It is easy to understand how people can feel this way. We should all try and be empathetic towards the daily struggles and challenges many folks face in the Nation.

Everyone must listen though when I tell you there is ALWAYS hope, and YOU DO have power! We all have unlimited potential and power in our lives, we just have to learn how to realize it and self-actualize it.

If we focus on building and fostering strong communities we can achieve happiness, prosperity, and success for all.

What exactly makes a strong community? Strong communities are groups of neighborhoods driven by high rates of political, economic, and social participation of residents.

HOW INDIVIDUALS HAVE SOCIAL EQUITY IN THEIR COMMUNITY

You may not realize it, but by being a community member you automatically have power and influence, what we could call social equity.

You may be asking yourself, how is that so? Consider the following ideas: We all have a social network in our lives- family, friends, peers, coworkers, and neighbors and we often leverage that social network in various ways.

Ever had to run to your neighbor next door to borrow an egg or two because you forgot you have no eggs, or ever asked a friend to help you do something difficult or labor-intensive?

This is an example of social equity in action- when you leverage your personal relationships for a benefit or advantage. It is a normal part of human behavior and interaction and is the basis of what creates a community.

Social equity can extend from individual relationships to our role in the workplace and other group-based contexts.

If you like to surround yourself with people and enjoy working with others to directly make an impact in the community you can always try to join a club, church, non-profit, or other community organization.

This will empower you to help your community out like never before and get directly involved in key issues like environment and conservation, local economic development, crime and substance abuse, poverty, education, and civil rights.

Through joining a community organization like this you can network and meet other concerned community members about topics you are passionate about. You can network and make friends, allies, and business partners!

HOW INDIVIDUALS HAVE ECONOMIC POWER IN THEIR COMMUNITY

Every community member is VITAL to the local economic health and activity of a neighborhood. Every purchase and shopping decision you make makes a direct impact on your local economy.

As a consumer, you have the ability to choose who and what you buy from others. So why not support your community by shopping local and small businesses whenever you can?

Many of your neighbors are working hard to chase their dreams and provide amazing services and skills to their fellow community members. Help support them by giving them your patronage.

Shopping local can help make your community a more vibrant and brighter place. You would be quite surprised to realize how much you can save shopping local and small versus at the supermarket or at large franchises.

If you know your community lacks a certain need such as a need for a local neighborhood grocery for example, and if you have the right skills, grit, and determination you should pursue starting your OWN small business.

People often forget that they have the ability to start their own creative and business enterprises and that through creating their own enterprise they can help craft a stronger local economy and community. It is not as hard as it sounds, but it does take some research and planning.

It’s also important to keep in mind that business success doesn’t occur overnight and that you will need to expect some challenges and problems to overcome as you pursue starting your own business.

HOW INDIVIDUALS HAVE POLITICAL POWER IN THEIR COMMUNITY

We all have political power within our communities, even if it’s humble.

Some of the direct ways we have political influence is through our right to vote, or the ability to run for public offices. In America, we have the ability to exercise our constitutionally guaranteed freedoms of speech and free enterprise to make moves on the issues we are most passionate about.

Individually this power may seem insignificant, but when we work together on common issues and mobilize, we collectively can have the power to change the outcomes of important elections, pass new laws into place, and ultimately make our communities more vibrant. We are able to save the day when we use our political power collectively!

🗝 The key is just bringing people together from the community! 🗝

Have you ever found yourself saying “I could do a better job as Mayor”?

Have you ever been frustrated at how good ideas go unheard?

YOU have the power to run for positions in public office. Put your money where your mouth is, and try and run a local campaign.

You may be quite surprised at what the results and outcome may be. You may be inspired and empowered to do great things for your community!

It’s no good running by yourself if your running on a platform of game-changing ideas. You have to work in coalitions with other public officials to effectively pass into law your proposed ideas. That means getting supporting and forming partnerships with your peers in local government.

If there are many local positions up to vote for a local election, you and your allies should simultaneously run at the same time as part of a local grassroots movement to encourage change and ideas.

If the majority of you succeed, you have a majority coalition capable of voting policies into law much more easily.

YOU HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO APPRECIATE & UTILIZE THAT EQUITY!

1. GET INVOLVED!

Our first step for getting involved in building your local community is the easiest! Jump in and join a local community organization by going to a local church, or joining a hobby-based club, or by volunteering to help out a local non-profit. If you love sports try coaching a youth sports team with the local parks and recreation department! There are so many ways to get involved and help out. Think about the things that mean the most to you in your community, and what you are really passionate about. There is almost certainly an opportunity for you to offer your unique talents and skills by get involved and volunteering your service.

If there is no organization that exists that addresses a specific community need or concern then…

2. ORGANIZE A GROUP!

You can’t do everything by yourself, and there’s always more power in numbers. If you are trying to address an issue affecting your community or neighborhood, you should mobilize the people to action. The best way to do that is by organizing a club or non-profit or similar type of group. As people, we are social creatures by nature, and the company of other people who are passionate about the same topics as us can be great for our self-esteem, social health, and the community overall. When people come together to address challenges, great things happen. There is no underestimating the impact a group of people can have on a community.

• Create a non-profit! (check out our future article on Hoodie Goodies about starting your own non-profit!)

• Create a book club to promote educational and intellectual activities among peers

• Create hobby-based clubs to promote common interests and extracurricular activities

3. START A BUSINESS!

Free enterprise is an American ethos, and you will be surprised at how wholesome and elevating being a small business owner can be! Being a small business owner empowers you as an individual and gives you a greater stake in your local community. It allows you to inspire productivity and creativity in your peers! Even though we live in a globalized economy and an age of large-scale manufacturing and distribution, we still rely heavily on certain small-scale cottage industries to provide us with important goods and to help us live healthier and happier lives. Small businesses directly support local economies and help provide neighborhoods with the food, clothing, and other materials they need to create a functioning and stable society.

4. GO TO TOWN HALL!

Part of crafting a more vibrant and opportunistic community is staying informed about local issues. One of the best ways to stay on top of local issues, and even to make your voice heard by public officials is through attending regularly scheduled town halls and city councils. These are meetings of public officials where they discuss important issues and projects and vote on decisions surrounding these topics. They are open to the public, and most allow time during the meeting for attending public members to voice their concerns and ask questions. It is important to get people of all backgrounds and ages to attend these meetings and participate. Through participating in local politics, you can achieve so much!

5. SHOP & SELL AT LOCAL FARMER’S MARKETS!

Local farmer’s markets often have fresh and delicious food that is locally grown or produced. You can find all types of organic vegetables, fruit, as well as baked goods and even material goods like clothing, handbags, and purses, and even jewelry. The best part is that all these goods are local! By shopping and selling at local farmer’s markets you are helping stimulate the local economy and helping forge stronger relationships with your fellow community members.

SUPPORT EACH OTHER & BE COMPASSIONATE!

With all these suggestions, perhaps the most important advice we can tell you for building a strong community is to help support your neighbors, friends, and peers and to be compassionate towards the daily struggles of others.

We all have our own problems, but we often don’t realize just how difficult some of our fellow neighbor’s lives are. People walk around the streets of DC without even taking the time to acknowledge each other with a simple hello.

Take the time to smile and wave at people even if for a brief moment, it lets you recognize the existence of your peers around you.

If you want to see changes in your community or neighborhood, it starts with yourself. You have to be the change you want to see!

Even though people may be rude to you or ignore you, you still take the time to do these things. Others will learn from your example and it will spread like wildfire!

By taking the time to do small actions like these we can truly create great momentum and change and really inspire our communities to reach their ultimate potential.

We ALL deserve to live lives filled with abundance and happiness, and we can only achieve this by working TOGETHER, not by being selfish and focusing only on ourselves and our well being alone.

No one can achieve anything alone, we have to learn to come together as a community.

🔰 WHY NORTHERN VA (NOVA) IS THE FUTURE OF AMERICA! 🔰

WRITTEN BY: ZACH CHAMP, CONNECT WITH ME ON LINKEDIN!

Originally published at https://www.hoodiegoodies.com on April 10, 2019.

Driving down I-95 and seeing all the magnificence and wealth that is manifested in Northern Virginia in Fairfax, Springfield, Alexandria, Arlington leaves an individual dumbstruck and in awe! Dominating skyscrapers, massive elevated concrete interstate highways, and bright neon lights and electronic signs command the horizon and surrounding views. All this leaves one to wonder, “Where did this all come from?”.

There are approximately 3.2 million people living in Northern Virginia, and the region is Virginia’s most populated, productive, and prosperous sector. More people work jobs in Northern Virginia than in Washington D.C and Southern Maryland combined. Northern Virginia is the hub of the commuter-based economy that has helped shape and define the Washington D.C metropolitan area.

So why is Northern Virginia so distinguished from the rest of Virginia?

WHAT IS NORTHERN VIRGINIA & HOW DID IT BECOME SO PROSPEROUS AND BIG?

From Piedmont Woodlands to Suburban Metropolis!

The concept of Northern Virginia being its own unique region is a relatively modern idea. You may be wondering what technically constitutes the borders of Northern Virginia?

Well, Northern Virginia is essentially the area containing Arlington, Fairfax, Loudon, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Prince William counties as well as the independent cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Fredericksburg, Manassas, and others.

The region is connected through its shared history, economy, and culture which has grown over several generations to what it is today. Northern Virginia is a region of progress, diversity, and technological/scientific advancement!

To understand how Northern Virginia became so developed and prosperous you have to explore Virginia’s history.

Virginia’s wealth and growth date back to the colonial period when the area was heavily utilized for farming, especially on large tobacco plantations. These tobacco plantations were critical to the early colonial Virginia economy. The demand for Tobacco from Colonial Virginia was a primary economic factor that fueled the growth and exploitation of slave labor in the New World. The wealth created during this time established Virginia as a thriving new colony and guaranteed its continued success through much of the next century.

We should never forget that this wealth was created at the expense of people’s lives…

Later in 1790, when George Washington set aside land and created the capital of the United States in Washington D.C. the next stage of northern Virginia’s growth would begin. The creation of the new capital created a need for rural communities with farms that could supply much-needed food to the newly created District of Colombia. These rural communities would grow up over time to become the cities of Northern Virginia today.

The area did face challenges, especially during the civil war when multiple battles and campaigns caused vast destruction of the area. It took several decades during the post-war period for the necessary rebuilding and reconstruction to occur.

Several of the cities in Northern Virginia have been built over and over again, with layers of history being preserved in the ground underneath the city streets!

Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park, Fredericksburg Battlefield

Quite a few of the old colonial districts of many of Virginia’s historic cities are actually based on the same city planning design of 7 vertical streets intersected by 3 or more parallel horizontal streets.

For instance, the layout of Downtown Fredericksburg mirrors the layout of Old Town Alexandria almost exactly. The only difference is in the buildings, architecture, and street names used.

This is just a great visual demonstration of how closely related and interconnected the region actually is!

UNDERSTANDING NORTHERN VIRGINIA & ITS SIGNIFICANCE:

NOVA is the future of technology, big business, and culture. People who live and work in the area can see there’s something brewing in the region that is beginning to cause radical and profound changes in the local communities. Northern Virginia is one of the top 4 richest counties in the United States of America and maintains one of the highest qualities of life standards for the entire country.

NOVA is home to several large and well known international and national businesses that are located in the area such as Bechtel, Mitsubishi, Nestle, Mars Candy Company, and many more! These are serious international corporations that generate revenue in the millions of dollars. The presence of such companies contributes greatly to the region’s prized economic standing in the nation.

Bechtel which has its headquarters located in Reston VA is the 11th largest privately owned company in the United States, as well as THE largest construction company in the United States!

Recently Amazon has been negotiating with public officials in Crystal City in Arlington, Virginia to relocate the Amazon HQ2 facility there. While many are excited about this potential new big business being added to the roster of Northern Virginia companies, others are concerned that Amazon may not contribute portions of its wealth as necessary to the local community. If Amazon HQ2 were to relocate to Crystal City, then an agreement would definitely need to be in place between the corporation and the community that would ultimately benefit the local citizens.

Besides large businesses, perhaps the most famous aspect of Northern Virginia’s significance as a powerhouse region in the United States is the presence of the Federal Government. The various agencies and departments of the Federal Government that are based in Washington D.C, Northern Virginia and nearby provide an exceptional amount of jobs to the regional economy and are another important reason for the area’s growth. This all began during WWI and WWII when the Department of Defense was harnessing all its resources and labor for the war effort. As the DoD created armament and munitions factories, and as the military intelligence community settled in the Pentagon, the Federal Government also grew. Likewise, so did the Northern Virginia local economy based around the Federal Bureaucracy.

Places like Reston VA were among the first suburbs to be developed after WWII. The DOD helped fund the construction of these suburban neighborhoods to house Federal employees.

The spread of suburbs and the development of urban areas is one of the visible signs of this growth in the local economy. Sleek modern family homes lay stacked side by side, copy and pasted across the once rural landscape. While economic growth is good, the suburban sprawl that resulted from Northern Virginia’s boom during the 1990s and 2000s is now starting to present challenges to the communities that have grown within.

THE FUTURE OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA:

What does the future of Northern Virginia have in store for us? Well if current trends keep holding it is likely we will see many changes to the area. Northern Virginia is currently experiencing a decade long shift in the age and ethnic demographic of the area. The area has become significantly more Hispanic, younger, and has more women. These demographic changes in the region also reflect the growing demographic changes occurring in the nation as a whole.

Northern Virginia has some of the best rated public transportation options in the entire country including car sharing, bike sharing, trolleys, metro buses and trains, and more! This is vital in an area that is perhaps infamously known for having the worst traffic in the Nation…

Yes… even though Northern Virginia has plenty of things to be proud of, there is a glaringly huge problem that is plaguing the area. It is overpopulated and the proper infrastructure and economy required to accommodate the current amount of people that live here simply does not exist.

As a result, I-95 and other major roadways are now crowded and the amount of time to make the traditional early morning commute has only become longer and longer with each passing year.

This is supposed to be one of the world’s largest interstate highway systems… and this is how it normally looks :(

The traffic problem is stressing Virginians out across the board and not just with road rage… with such a large population in the region, there is a huge demand for affordable housing. Virginia, unfortunately, has some of the highest rents in the country for a 2-bedroom apartment!

Thousands of people are moving to the area each year, but there are not enough options for them to live and work when they are competing with the hundreds of thousands that already live there. Not only must individuals and families compete for housing, but they are also competing for decent jobs and careers.

The future of Northern Virginia will have to address this growing overpopulation issue, and creative solutions need to be formulated. The next generation of Northern Virginians is growing up, and they are going to need to inherit an economy and community prepared specifically for them!

It is up to us Millennials in NOVA to create the plan of action that will implement affordable housing, and create exciting and valued careers for our home region! We are BUILDERS of our community just like those who came before us!

As technology shifts and changes so does the area. When fiber optic internet first became available, Northern Virginia was an early adopter bringing the region some of the fastest internet speeds available in the world at the time. Now with the advent of 5g internet, NOVA is leading the way again!

5G internet unlocks even crazier technological innovations for the region that will truly make Northern Virginia the home of the future! 5G internet allows for the creation of a SMART GRID, a vast internet network connecting all types of appliances, vehicles, devices, computers, and personnel to each other through the Internet of Things! Once the SMART GRID is implemented, we can expect Northern Virginia to become a tech haven with the newest innovations being available and widely used. Self-driving ‘Smart Cars’ are already roaming the roads of Washington D.C and Alexandria and will soon spread to the rest of the nearby area.

Argo Self Driving Cars are becoming a more common sight in the District of Columbia!

So, what else does the future of Northern Virginia hold with all this new and developing technology? Well, with rising concern over the environment and climate change, as well as the increased appreciation for natural spaces within urban settings, we can expect Northern Virginia to further pursue new forms of urban design that incorporate green spaces. Parks are becoming more popular, and so are outdoor farmer's markets and trade markets. People want to spend time outside, even when they are deep in the city! Designing cities to accommodate people's thirst for nature can allow for more aesthetic and appealing urban spaces, as well as more eco-friendly landscapes!

The future of Northern Virginia certainly looks bright, and we can’t wait to observe the changes and watch our region continue to evolve and grow!

🌊 RIVERS OF THE DMV 🌊

WRITTEN BY: ZACH CHAMP, CONNECT WITH ME ON LINKEDIN!

Originally published at https://www.hoodiegoodies.com on October 5, 2019.

THE FLOW OF TIME AND WATER

For thousands of years, people have lived, hunted, fished, and traveled along the various rivers of the DMV. Many of these rivers have remained unchanged, reflecting the same character and exuberance for generations. Others have faced dramatic alterations due to human impact.

Regardless of what has happened to them over time, all of these rivers have remained significantly important for local agriculture, trade, and industry. You may have heard the phrase that Rivers are a highway! In the past this was especially true as traveling along waterways was the most efficient and fastest way to get from one point to another.

Civilization follows rivers! Think about back to when you were a student in high school or college and learning ancient world history… you always learned about the ancient rivers of the Nile, Euphrates, Tigris, Indus, and Yellow Rivers which sustained the great ancient civilizations of Egypt, Mesopotamia, Vedic India, and Imperial China. These rivers made a great impact on their local communities and peoples. The same is true with our rivers here in the DMV!

During the early colonial period of America, the DMV’s rivers were vital for the tobacco trade which the majority of early colonies relied upon for commerce. These same rivers also carried the same ships which had traveled from far across the Atlantic Ocean carrying the unfortunate souls destined to live life in the New World as slaves.

The Federal Government, recognizing the importance of keeping our waterways safe from pollution and toxic waste passed the Clean Water Act in 1972. This law was among the first keystone environmental legislative acts protecting our nation’s land and natural resources.

WHY RIVERS MATTER… IN THE DMV & BEYOND!

Water is vital to all living things on Earth. Rivers are the bearers of life and are truly divine and spiritual. We must respect, revere, and appreciate our rivers.

As the DMV continues to grow and expand, the increased settlement and population size will create additional stress and problems for our local rivers and watersheds.

Climate Change will cause more flooding, and floods affect local water quality due to increased sediment, pollutants, and contaminants that get exposed to the water supply after large storms.

How our rivers will respond to all these challenges is uncertain, but if we don’t take drastic measures to protect local rivers and watersheds there could be catastrophic consequences. Everything will be affected including water quality, wildlife, and human culture!

NATURE DEPENDS ON RIVERS

Rivers are an important part of the Water Cycle. The Water Cycle is how nature recycles and transports water around the globe from the oceans to the atmosphere. When it rains in mountainous regions, water drains through the intricate network of rivers towards the coast. The water that reaches the coast and oceans ends up eventually being evaporated into the atmosphere where it condenses into clouds which travel and rain back down inland. This flow of water is essential to all living things on Earth, regardless of where they are, for food, habitat, energy, and more!

One of the ways we can assess the local health of watersheds and rivers is by examining local fish species. Fish and their whole lives depend on clean, quality water to thrive and reproduce. Whenever large amounts of fish die in local waterways, wildlife biologists and ecologists take note. If fish populations can’t remain stable, whole food chains can collapse which can directly impact not just wildlife but people as well!

THE RIVER FLOWS THROUGH US… LITERALLY!

You may have heard before that humans are made of 2/3 water. Yet what you may not also realize is that the water we drink and consume daily is the very same water that flows through us! The water in your body comes directly from your local environment, and if your local water sources are polluted and filled with contaminants, then this is all accumulating in your body, even when the water goes through a treatment plant. Some scientist believe that this is what may be causing certain issues like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer's, autism, and other serious medical conditions.

It’s important to remember that in this day and age, if you are concerned about the quality of your drinking water, no matter what your water source is, you will probably want to use an additional water filtration device with your faucet or fridge as an added precaution.

Even if you filter your water, contaminants from local waterways can still be an issue if you eat local fish, plants, and wildlife. How? Because of bio-accumulation, which is a biological process in which minerals, nutrients, and contaminants can gather inside living things when these compounds are recycled through the food chain.

THE PROBLEM WITH POLLUTION

We live today in an age filled with many industrial, pharmaceutical, and chemical products. Almost everyone in America today uses nail polish, shampoo, detergents, and cleaning solvents on a regular basis. All these products consist of man-made chemicals and compounds, which end up through waste and runoff into our local watersheds. Many of these chemicals and compounds have never been studied thoroughly by science and it is unclear what effects they can have on living things. This has resulted in the rise of what is called Emerging Contaminants.

Emerging Contaminants are a serious issue of concern to local ecologists and wildlife biologists. In the past few years fish, amphibians, and in some cases mammals that live around the DMV’s rivers have been found with serious genetic defects and mutations. This often results in issues such as extra or missing limbs and organs, the development of intersex features, as well as the disruption of normal biological processes in animals.

Why is this occurring? It’s because many of the emerging contaminants within our waterways, especially the chemical and pharmaceutical compounds that we use every day as part of modern medicine are Endocrine Disruptors. Many of the chemicals are powerful hormones and when animals are exposed for their entire lives to these chemicals it causes complications that create unforeseen consequences.

If we know all types of animals are suffering from exposure to these compounds in the water, the same water which we drink and rely upon, how can we be so sure there are no potential problems in store for us?

It is unfortunate that in our nation’s capital there is so much contamination, pollution, trash and plastic damaging our waterways. Common sense tells us that plastic doesn’t break down so don’t throw trash away improperly , or that mixing chemicals with the environment isn’t good. Y et people still litter and companies still try and cut corners on regulatory rules to maximize their profits.

Unless we bring attention to the issue and work hard to change American attitudes towards the environment and how we live then we are only going to continue to make a big mess.

OUR GREAT RIVERS OF THE DMV:

THE RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER

The Rappahannock River’s name comes from the Native American Algonquin language. The original name lappihane translates to mean “the river that flows and ebbs quickly”. The Rappahannock River starts in the Blue Ridge Mountains and flows eastward into the Chesapeake Bay. It is the longest free-flowing river in Virginia and has long been essential to communities residing near it. The river supports local agriculture, and fishing and outdoor recreational opportunities for thousands of Virginian residents.

Near Fredericksburg Virginia, the Rappahannock River has a sudden drop in depth and height. This is known as the Fall Line and represents where the Rappahannock goes from being a peaceful large body of water to a rapid filled and rocky river! This area was significant for historic in-land trade as it allowed large ships to sail up-river from the coast towards towns in the interior. The City of Fredericksburg was one such town where many ships would stop to unload goods which would then be taken further out west to the Appalachian Mountains.

Significant parts of the Rappahannock River have been designated as part of the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge. Established in 1996, this wildlife refuge is a home for many migratory bird species that mate and raise their young here. The Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge is also home to many other wetland species. Visitors to the wildlife refuge can learn about the wildlife and the ecosystem of the Piedmont Wetlands with hands-on activities and guided nature walks with Wildlife Rangers.

Like other rivers in the DMV, the Rappahannock is facing challenges that endanger its existence. For the Rappahannock River, the main issue of concern lately is Fracking. The Rappahannock River crosses over an underground geological deposit of natural gas called the Taylorsville Basin. The basin, which covers several counties contains millions of dollars worth of natural gas that can help create local jobs, provide energy, and stimulate Virginia’s economy. However, the opportunity to extract this natural gas has become the subject of much debate because the process by which it is extracted, known as Fracking, has been known to cause severe damage and instability to the local environment. It even is linked with increasing earthquakes! It should be noted that Virginia suffered a very rare and uncharacteristic magnitude 5.8 earthquake in 2011 which many blamed on fracking operations in the nearby area.

THE POTOMAC RIVER — The Nation’s River

The Potomac River starts as a humble spring spurting forth out of a mountain top in the Shenandoah Mountains where it trickles down-hill and slowly develops into a larger stream. This stream continues until it becomes a larger tributary and finally ends at the Potomac Bay near the Atlantic Ocean as a grand and iconic waterway. The Potomac still has a very scenic and wild character, remaining largely unchanged over the decades. Traveling along the Potomac you will find waterfalls, gorges, and rapids.

Early native agricultural societies lived and thrived along the Potomac. These Algonquian speaking peoples settled and developed the area for hundreds of years before the arrival of European settlers and colonists.

Millions of gallons of water are used from the Potomac River to supply residents of the Washington D.C metro area with clean drinking water. One of the larger issues of concern with residents living near the Potomac River is with the billions of gallons of raw sewage water that overflows into the Potomac River each year.

THE ANACOSTIA RIVER

Piscataway Confederacy (Native Tribes) were among the original pre-European occupants of the region. The Anacostia River derives its name from one of these Piscataway groups who also settled and lived along the river.

Today the largest threat and challenge to the health and continued vitality of the Anacostia River is the issue with water runoff and pollutants in the river. This is a serious health concern for city residents and officials.

Many people depend on Fish from the Anacostia River. One example is the Blue Catfish, which is a popular fish that is eaten by many local residents. However, there is much concern about eating fish out of the Anacostia River. Why? The answer lies in the way the Washington D.C water utility and infrastructure is set up, which intrinsically as part of its design and operation allows a legally defined “acceptable amount” of collected sewage and wastewater and to drain it into the Anacostia. This sewage runoff leaves bacteria in the river that is not readily apparent and can cause serious illness, disease, or even death!

This issue has been brought to the attention of various agencies and groups within the Washington D.C metropolitan community. Efforts have been made to clean up the Anacostia and help restore it to its full glory, so it can once again contain to breathe life into the region.

THE JAMES RIVER

The James River begins in the Appalachian Mountains and flows east to the capital city of Richmond Virginia. The river was originally named the Powhatan River by native groups occupying the area before being renamed by colonists from Britain in the 16 thand 17 thcenturies. It is the 12 thlargest river in the United States of America, with the James River watershed supporting nearly 2.5 million people.

The James River is one of the largest natural habitats and roosting spots for Bald Eagles in the East Coast. It also is home to the massive and prehistoric-looking Atlantic Sturgeon, which is an endangered fish species. Blue catfish are also found in the waters of the James River.

The James River has several world-class rapids, which adventure-sports enthusiasts seek out each year to challenge head-on. There are many other outdoor recreational opportunities including fishing, hiking, canoeing, bird-watching, as well as swimming.

HOW YOU CAN HELP PROTECT OUR RIVERS!

Taking care of our local rivers, creeks, and watersheds is perhaps one of the easiest environmental issues to get involved with and make a big impact.

When it comes to protecting the environment, you always have to consider your daily habits and attitudes towards how you dispose of food and regular household items such as soap, toothpaste, cleaning detergents, pharmaceutical medicines, and the like. Not only that, but you often have to consider even what kind of food you eat or the products you use in the first place!

The majority of contaminants in our local water supply often come from dyes, fragrances, chemicals, and other byproducts that is found in pretty much everything made under the Sun these days!

It can be a little inconvenient, but making the personal choice to use organic and environmentally friendly products can be a great way towards really making an active step towards saving the Earth.

One of the most critical tasks you can become more aware of is how you dispose of pharmaceutical medicines. You should never flush or pour pharmaceutical or chemical products down the sink or into your toilet or bath. Why? Because these chemicals become part of our water supply, and many of the compounds and chemicals in it can’t be filtered out even with mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration methods! This is the true risk and cost of the industrial age! It is unclear how our impact will affect the future of life on Earth… unless we focus on becoming more respectful and cognizant of our interactions with nature. We can all make a difference!

One of the best ways to get involved is to volunteer with a local conservation group and help with river cleanup and watershed restoration projects! A lot of these local conservation groups can use more participation and involvement from the youth. This is a great way to get involved with your local community and to meet and network with elders and experienced conservationists who have been watching over the local waterways for years.

It is especially important that as a community, we develop ways to help teach children to respect and appreciate our local rivers and watersheds and to understand the important ecological, cultural, and spiritual value these rivers provide to our society so that they can grow up to be proper stewards of this land. If we don’t invest in our youth by giving them a strong knowledge and understanding of ecology and conservation, they are only going to repeat the same mistakes previous generations made in respect towards natural resource use and land management practices.

SOURCES & REFERENCES:

• https://thejamesriver.org/about-the-james-river/

• https://www.americanrivers.org/endangered-rivers/rappahannock-river-va/

• https://www.fws.gov/refuge/rappahannock_river_valley/

• http://www.virginiaplaces.org/watersheds/rappa.html

• https://www.americanrivers.org/river/potomac-river/

• https://www.anacostiaws.org/

• https://www.fredericksburgva.gov/210/Rappahannock-River

🌳 TOP 5 HIKING & NATURE TRAILS IN FREDERICKSBURG VIRGINIA 🌳

Written By: Zach Champ, Connect with me on LinkedIn!

Originally Published on Hoodie Goodies, Republished with Author’s Permission for FXBG Public Radio

---

In this week’s article for What’s Good in the Neighborhood- DMV Local, we explore what we consider to be the top 5 nature and hiking trails located in Fredericksburg Virginia!

This historic colonial town has grown to be quite big over the past few years! Fredericksburg has way more hustle and bustle going on than it used to… sometimes all the excitement can leave you feeling drained!

What better way to recharge than to immerse yourself in the woods?

All the locations on our list are sure to get your spirit for adventure going and guaranteed to leave you feeling satisfied and connected with mother nature!

1. THE RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER & QUARRY TRAILS

The first area on our list is perhaps the most popular hiking and nature trail in Fredericksburg… The Rappahannock/Fredericksburg Quarry and Trails are located next to the Rappahannock River near the Central Park shopping center and U.S Route 1.

Walking alongside the river you can find various spots to cast a line and fish, including some sandy beach areas!

The Quarry features several cliff diving spots with the most prominent one being a 50 ft drop. People that dive off these cliffs have to swim the full length of the Quarry back to safety.

Walking alongside the river you can find various spots to cast a line and fish, including some sandy beach areas!

This quarry used to be a very well known swim spot, but nowadays it is off-limits to visitors. This is due to the number of sad and tragic drownings that have occurred over the years.

The Quarry features several cliff diving spots with the most prominent one being a 50 ft drop. People that dive off these cliffs have to swim the full length of the Quarry back to safety.

This can be a challenging and difficult exercise for inexperienced swimmers. As a result, the City Police has made it a trespassing charge for anyone that swims in the Quarry.

Hoodie Goodies does not recommend swimming in the Quarry unless you are willing to accept the potential risks both physical and legal!

The Rappahannock River and Quarry Trails are incredible fun for people who love mountain biking. Most of the trails twist and turn like a slithering snake through the woods, all while providing a nice view of the Rappahannock River. The 14-mile long biking trail feature s berms, bridges, stream crossings, and other skill-testing obstacles that will entertain and provide fun for both beginners and advanced mountain bikers.

2. ALUM SPRINGS PARK

Alum Springs Park is a scenic 34-acre outdoor park located near Downtown Fredericksburg. The park is named after the historic Alum Springs, locally renowned for its mineral deposits which many believe can heal and cure various diseases.

Alum Springs provides some of the best hiking in Downtown Fredericksburg besides the Rappahannock River. You can find solitude on the numerous crisscrossing trails in the park. The trails all feature benches to rest and admire the landscape.

The most defining feature of this land is the distinctive sandstone cliff that is nearly 400 ft long and 40 feet high.

Alum Springs Park has playgrounds and picnic areas with grills, making it a great destination for family outings and get-togethers.

The park is a great place to observe wildlife, especially birds! Alum Spring is a known resting spot for many migrating bird species including Cardinals, Blue Jays, Carolina Wrens, Warblers, and more!

The park is open year-round from dawn to dusk. There is a parking lot for visitors, but be warned! In order to access the park by car, you will need to ford a small creek that can sometimes flood during storm s and extreme weather.

For those looking for unique outdoor experiences in Downtown Fredericksburg, there is a ‘secret spot’ at Alum Springs Park.

When you enter the Greenbrier Neighborhood where the park is located in, you will notice a community pool with a parking lot. If you go to the wood-line next to this park you will see the Alum Spring passing between the neighborhood’s apartments and Blue and Gray Parkway.

Here the stream flows into a giant sinkhole that goes down 20 feet with a cascading rock waterfall. This area is traditionally known as “Fat Annie’s Swimming Hole”, and it is certainly a prize worth seeking out!

3. OLD MILL PARK

Many residents of Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania may be familiar with Old Mill Park which is located on Caroline Street in Downtown Fredericksburg. Old Mill Park is directly adjacent to the Rappahannock River.

Old Mill Park gets its name from the now ruined mills that used to exist in the same area. Today these mills are long gone, but if you hike the Rappahannock River Virginia Heritage Trail, which crosses through the park you can find remnants of these structures.

Old Mill Park features a canoe and kayaking launch, which makes it a great access point for the Rappahannock River.

There are also several sandy beaches along the river where you can fish which makes for an enjoyable and unique outdoor experience.

Old Mill Park features several beaches as well as a playground and picnic areas. For those athletically inclined, there are Soccer fields that consistently get used by both children and adults!

Old Mill Park is a great place to have big gatherings with friends or family and always has fun events and activities especially during holidays like on the 4th of July.

4. MOTT’S RESERVOIR

You may be surprised to know that Fredericksburg has its very own man-made lake hidden right next to downtown!

This man-made body of water is Mott’s Reservoir and it is located along River Road near Central Park shopping center.

Mott’s Reservoir is an impressive waterfront with a 160-acre lake that provides ample opportunity for Boating, Canoeing & Kayaking.

Boat and Canoe/Kayak rentals are available, and there is also a boat ramp where local residents can bring their water-faring craft.

Mott’s Reservoir has an 860-acre park with several nature trails and is a known hot-spot for native wildlife.

At the Reservoirs entrance, there is a nature center where you can learn about local plants and animals and the habitats found in the reservoir and nearby Rappahannock River.

The main function of the reservoir is to provide clean drinking water for the residents of the City of Fredericksburg and parts of Spotsylvania County.

Fishing is allowed at the reservoir, and during the summer there are even nighttime fishing hours for local residents.

There are several fishing piers at the reservoir, all of them with seating. There are also designated bank fishing areas so you can get close to the water and really focus on your catch.

Mott’s Reservoir feels very much like a State Park. There are picnic areas, fire-pits, and grills for those looking to have a cookout and spend a day by the water. For those who love to explore the woods, there is an orienteering course woven throughout the park’s trails, adding additional outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors!

5. FREDERICKSBURG BATTLEFIELD

The US Civil War ravaged the countryside of Virginia, and it especially brought horror to the residents of Spotsylvania and Fredericksburg. It is here in Fredericksburg and nearby Spotsylvania County that five campaigns of the war were valiantly fought. The Battle of Fredericksburg was one of the most devastating conflicts of the war, with an estimated 12,653 Union Army casualties and an estimated 5,377 Confederate casualties resulting in a decisive victory for the Confederate Army. The battle completely ruined the once prosperous town and has left lasting scars on the landscape, culture, and history of the area and its residents.

Today all that remains of the battlefield is a pleasant National Military Park and National Cemetery with a few demilitarized cannons overlooking Marye’s Heights and Sunken Road, standing as sentinels for the lost souls of that battle. This is especially ironic because it is these same cannons that caused so much fatality during the conflict. The darkness of the battle is now replaced with neat and orderly rows of small white tombstones spanning the entire surface of the hill. It’s a reminder of the cost and sacrifice that is sometimes unfortunately necessary in order to drive progress and history forward!

The Fredericksburg Battlefield is generally open year-round from sunrise to sunset and is only closed for major holidays. However, the park is located in the heart of Downtown Fredericksburg and easily transitions and blends into the surrounding urban environment, so you can pretty much access it at any time. There are two distinct parts to the Fredericksburg Battlefield National Military Park- the National Cemetery at Marye’s Heights and then the wooded trails which are located off of Lafayette Boulevard.

At the park, there is a Visitor Center and parking lot situated next to Sunken Road and Marye’s Heights. Here you can find a museum with informational exhibits talking about the Civil War, the Battle, and Fredericksburg before and after the conflict. You can also sign up for guided tours with Park Rangers who will escort you around the park while educating you about the history of the area and providing additional context on the battle.

One of the most peculiar and intriguing features of the battlefield is the stone pyramid erected on the opposite side of the train tracks when you drive down the Park’s entrance off Lafayette Boulevard. This pyramid, which is a favorite hidden gem for locals to find and appreciate, is a memorial structure built after the war by Confederate Veterans to honor their fallen comrades. Many families who have lived for generations in the area have ancestors who fought in the war on both sides, and to this day the issue of family members ties to the Confederacy is still a sensitive subject for Virginians.

Today teenagers and young adults consider the Pyramid differently… they hang out at it, relax and smoke weed, film music videos, pose for selfies, and treat it like a work of art versus considering it as a solemn memorial for dead soldiers. This juxtaposition of serious historical events and situations with the recreational re-purposing of the land is in many ways a defining and revealing characteristic of modern American’s attitudes towards the U.S Civil War… It is no longer a tangible and comprehensive event, it is a relic of the past. We think every American should visit the Fredericksburg Battlefield so they can understand and realize the true cost of freedom and observe the destructive and violent darkness of mankind that we must always focus on vanquishing with light and love!

HONORABLE MENTION: 6. COBBLESTONE PARK

Cobblestone Park is a quiet and hidden little park tucked away neatly on Lafayette near the battlefield and VRE Commuter Trail. The park is named for the nearby residential area, The Apartments at Cobblestone Square. This is a nice little neighborhood of apartments arranged in a nice public living area with walking and hiking trails, and access to the local train station.

The park itself features a graded trail that is brief and ends in a keyhole loop. There is a single bench to sit and rest at, which also conveniently has a trash can so you don’t have to leave any litter or trash behind! (Did you find our sticker?)

WANT TO GET INVOLVED WITH FREDERICKSBURG TRAILS?

Do you love the outdoors? Have you hiked all the trails above?

Let us know in the comments below!

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN GETTING MORE INVOLVED?

If so, then check out the Fredericksburg Trails organization and their website below:

http://fredtrails.org/

Further Resources:

http://fredtrails.org/trails/fredericksburg-quarry/

https://www.dgif.virginia.gov/waterbody/motts-run-reservoir/

https://www.fredericksburgva.gov/1128/Old-Mill-Park

https://www.nps.gov/frsp/index.htm

🧱 THE LEGEND OF DOWNTOWN FREDERICKSBURG’S UNDERGROUND TUNNELS 🧱

Written By: Zachary Champ,

Connect with me on LinkedIn!

---

Originally Published on Hoodie Goodies November 1st 2019, Republished with Author’s Permission for FXBG Public Radio

---

As a kid growing up I would sometimes hear rumors about something mysterious lurking underground in Downtown Fredericksburg.

Reminiscent of ancient myths like the Knights Templar, the Ark of the Covenant, or even the Lost City of El Dorado, the story of the underground tunnels of Fredericksburg Virginia has been an enigma to many for decades. Are they real? Who built them? What is its purpose? Can you access them today? These are all questions that few seem to have the answers to.

A mystery almost lost to time, Hoodie Goodies decided to get the real scoop on what exactly is going on with this interesting local legend.

We visited the Fredericksburg Area Cultural History Museum as well the Virginian Room archives at the Central Rappahannock Regional Library headquarters in Downtown Fredericksburg to conduct research. We were able to find publicly accessible information on the tunnels and piece together a picture of what is really going on.

SO JUST WHAT ARE THE TUNNELS UNDER FREDERICKSBURG?

The tunnels are a series of layered brick underground passages scattered in various locations downtown.

Photo Courtesy via Free-Lance Star. Read the source article here!

Some of the tunnels have sand floors, which archaeologists have speculated was done intentionally. The tunnels include a drain built into the walkway and were built on a sandstone foundation. The ceilings are about 6 feet high at their peak and feature vaulted brick arches.

The tunnels are spread throughout Downtown Fredericksburg. They are located under George Street, Princess Anne Street, Caroline Street, Dixon Street, with rumored locations elsewhere. It is not clear if the tunnels are part of one constructed system of underground passages, or if they are all independent and separate passageways built at different times.

WHO BUILT THEM?

Masons of course!

A project like building the tunnels would have been a significant undertaking, requiring the mobilization of the local community’s local workforce, and most likely included the use of slave labor as well. Both skilled and unskilled laborers would have participated in the construction.

Building the tunnels would have been no easy task and would have required knowledge, expertise, and skilled labor that specialized in carpentry, masonry, irrigation, surveying, and other important technical skills. The project would most likely have been led by a college-educated individual or group of persons who would direct the construction activities performed by local workers and/or slaves.

It is very likely that the tunnels were built as part of the City of Fredericksburg’s original urban planning and design, and were intended to be used as part of the daily trade and business occurring in the growing community at the time.

WHY WERE THEY BUILT?

People don’t realize that the Rappahannock River was significantly different in the past. During this time the river was several feet deeper than it is today, and the river was much larger. Why? Because this was before the completion of several dams which significantly reduced water flow and volume to the Rappahannock.

During the early, to mid-1800s Fredericksburg was a prosperous inland port and was a major stopping point for ships carrying merchandise and goods from the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River. Ships routinely sailed up and down the Rappahannock and unloaded their cargo at the docks in Downtown Fredericksburg.

All types of artifacts have been found in the tunnels ranging from Chinese porcelain to coins and other small goods. It is theorized that the tunnels were built to help facilitate the movement of this cargo from the docks directly to the shop’s basements and storage rooms.

There is evidence for this in the form of smoke smudge marks from the use of torches in the interior of the tunnels. The tunnels themselves are elaborately constructed and feature brick-vaulted arches with built-in drainage in the walkways. Clearly, they were built for sustained use and with dimensions that would accommodate people and supplies frequently moving through the passages.

Painting by Don Troiani “Fire on Caroline Street”

While the tunnel’s original purpose is a mystery, we do know they were later used for a variety of reasons throughout the remainder of the 19th century and early 20th century. During the U.S Civil War, the tunnels were used by both the Union and Confederate armies to secretly store and move around supplies and contraband. During the early 20th-century prohibition-era they were used to smuggle alcohol. Who knows what they have recently been used for…

ARE THEY STILL ACCESSIBLE TODAY?

No. All the tunnels are inaccessible to the public today.

Why? Mainly for safety concerns, as the tunnels are hundreds of years old and have not been repaired or maintained for decades. It is extremely dangerous for community members to try and go into the tunnels.

The dangers and risks range from potential suffocation due to lack of breathable air, to the potential collapse of the fragile tunnel brick walls, to illness or disease from exposure to rodents, spiders and other creepy crawlies.

Even though the tunnels are off-limits to the public, some people do have access to the tunnels.

Photo Courtesy via Free-Lance Star. Read the source article here!

There are several shops in Downtown Fredericksburg which have access to the tunnels through their store basements. Utility companies that work and service certain roads in Downtown Fredericksburg also are aware of the tunnels and have to account for them when performing any work-related activities that require digging such as working on sewage drains, laying fiber-optic cable, repairing roads, etc.

Walking along the banks of the Rappahannock, especially near the public parking lots and Brock’s Riverside Grill along Sophia Street you can find the remains of several of the tunnels former entrances along the river. As the riverbank slopes down to the water, you will find piles of old bricks that look like they were demolished and then cemented over. There are about four of these distinct looking spots along the riverbank here.

People claim there are other entrances and access points spread throughout Downtown Fredericksburg. Many of these claims are unverified, but for those seeking an adventure, maybe finding the hidden tunnel entrances is the next big weekend activity!

We here at Hoodie Goodies just want to remind everyone that you need to get permission from private property owners before you go exploring and to make sure that if you do find historical artifacts you treat them with respect and do not disturb them!

If you did find something, you should call the Fredericksburg Area Museum so they can send archaeologists and historians out to assess the situation. When you remove or disturb historical sites and artifacts you make it harder for professionals to do their jobs in discovering and learning about the past.

Just let it be so the next person can enjoy it!

AN OPPORTUNITY PRESENTS ITSELF: THE TUNNELS & TOURISM

The tunnels are an interesting historical feature and are very relevant to much of Fredericksburg’s local history.

Residents in Fredericksburg want to learn more about the tunnels. They are exciting, and there is an interesting mystique to them. The fact they are shrouded in so much secrecy and speculation makes them intriguing.

We here at Hoodie Goodies think that the City Council and Fredericksburg Area Museum should try and pursue a project where they make one of the tunnels a tourist feature. This isn’t a new idea and has been brought up before.

Why make the Tunnels a tourist feature? The answer is easy: money!

The tunnels could easily provide additional tourism opportunities for the City of Fredericksburg. They could also revitalize interest in local history and help local area museums and historians engage with the community’s youth over a topic that can easily serve as a launching pad for further discussion related to Fredericksburg’s history and culture.

Making the tunnels a tourist attraction could easily be done if organized correctly and done in collaboration with local and regional non-profits! The underground tunnels could arguably even be a National Park or Monument due to their historical significance.

Imagine a bold vision that would be to work with the National Park Service to make the underground tunnels part of the Fredericksburg Battlefield or as a separate protected historical site! There are grants existing at the State and Federal levels for historical renovation projects like this.

This would be a great opportunity for the City of Fredericksburg and its residents!

GOING DEEPER UNDERGROUND: TUNNELS AS INFRASTRUCTURE FOR FREDERICKSBURG

The tunnels cover a significant portion of underground space in Downtown Fredericksburg. As it stands, the tunnels are currently just sitting underground, slowly falling apart and not being used. This is a shame because the tunnels can surprisingly be used to help benefit the local community in many practical ways!

How? As Fredericksburg grows, the significance of Downtown Fredericksburg as the main hub in the area for shopping, recreation, entertainment, and tourism is going to become prominent.

Let’s be real- Fredericksburg is only going to get more crowded.

Downtown Fredericksburg is already experiencing developmental changes to anticipate the growth in its local population. Already new neighborhoods, businesses, and restaurants are opening up. The new arrival of condominiums marks the arrival of the next stage of Fredericksburg’s history.

The skyline of Downtown Fredericksburg is evolving and growing higher… Fredericksburg is finally maturing from a historic small town to a bonafide urban city!

It’s an exciting, yet anxious time for local residents to witness. Many community members are concerned that the growth is happening too fast and is not being moderated enough. Unforeseen consequences loom in the near future…

UNDERGROUND PARKING & SHOPPING

Residents base their future concerns on how the area has developed in the past few years. One of the biggest issues is road capacity, traffic, and parking.

This is where the tunnels come in- if we repair and fix the tunnels and underground infrastructure in Downtown Fredericksburg we could build new infrastructure to help the area with its growth.

One of the easiest projects that could immediately begin would be the construction of a new underground public parking lot to help relieve traffic congestion on the streets above.

Another way the tunnels can be utilized could be to convert them into underground shopping, similar to the retail spaces in Crystal City in Northern Virginia.

Underground shopping is a cool way to provide novel retail experiences for residents. Not only that, but underground buildings provide benefits such as reduced heating and cooling costs during the summer and winter.

THE TUNNELS AS A STARTING POINT FOR A FUTURE FREDERICKSBURG-NORTHERN VA METRO SYSTEM?

I-95 is one of the worst interstate highways in the nation for commuter traffic. Average commute times for 30-mile trips can sometimes take up to an hour and a half of travel time! This is costly to residents, local businesses, and local governments and is a safety hazard to have so much traffic congestion.

Many local residents that work in Northern Virginia are familiar with options to the dreaded I-95 commute. This includes car-pooling, EZ pass lanes, and taking alternative forms of transportation like trains.

Amtrak and Virginia Railways Express operate train lines that go from Richmond to Washington D.C with intermittent stops in throughout Northern Virginia.

However, even the morning commute on the VRE is already getting more crowded! Not only that it is expensive- costing almost just as much as the cost of traveling by car!

VRE has built new stations in Stafford and Spotsylvania to expand the VRE and use of it. But in the next few years, if population growth trends continue as they have, this may not be enough! So what is there to do to address this issue?

The next step would be the development of a future Fredericksburg Metropolitan Area metro-rail system reminiscent to that used in Washington D.C and New York City. The tunnels could once again be used to create an underground station that could service a theoretical new metro-rail line running to Stafford, Woodbridge, Fairfax, Alexandria, Arlington, and D.C!

This could be the possible future of the City of Fredericksburg 5 to 10 years from now!

THE TUNNELS AS UNDERGROUND DATA STORAGE?

Big Data is the new economy. Across the country, hundreds of data centers are being opened up to house servers that store and process the vast trillions of bytes of information flowing on the internet. Large companies like Google, Dell-EMC, Amazon, and others are among the many businesses which need infrastructure like this setup.

Data Storage requires a lot of electricity to run the equipment, but also to cool the systems from overheating. To save money on electric costs, many data storage sites are built underground to capitalize on the natural cooling properties of underground structures. Tunnels and caves sometimes make the best starting point for these new facilities…

Once again our tunnels under Downtown Fredericksburg can be modified to be utilized for such a purpose. We could create underground spaces that could be bought and maintained by large tech companies like Google or Amazon for their data storage operations.

This type of project would bring jobs and large amounts of revenue to the community. It would create a demand for specialized technical skill sets and would foster a more STEM-oriented local economy versus a retail and service-oriented economy. It would change the culture of Fredericksburg!

These are just some of the ideas which could revolutionize the City of Fredericksburg by utilizing and appreciating the value of one of our cultural and historic properties…

Only by discussing these ideas and educating people about these properties can we create meaningful and productive change in our community.

The tunnels were built by our town’s ancestors for use in commerce and trade and so that we as a community could use them to benefit our residents.

Let’s not disappoint them with continued secrecy and speculation and move forward with a new vision for the underground of Fredericksburg!

Did you enjoy this article? Don’t forget to subscribe to our website to stay tuned for the latest articles and blogs.

Find us on social media! Hoodie Goodies is on Facebook and Instagram!

CITATIONS & REFERENCES

Article: “History is lurking beneath our feet” By Cathy Jett. Published by the Free Lance Star. November 8th 2018.

Photo: “FIELD TRIP- City Council Visits Downtown Tunnel” Published by the Free Lance Star. November 15th 2018.

Article: “The Forgotten Tunnels of Fredericksburg” By Harvey Cunningham. Published by Fredericksburg Times. July 1977.

Book: “Fredericksburg Underground” Article: “Fredericksburg’s Forgotten Tunnels” By Barbara Crookshanks (Editor).