Stories for April 2012

Friday, April 27

Area Welcomes Discovery

A famed pace Shuttle finds home in Chantilly.

The Washington area kept its eyes to the sky on Tuesday morning April 17, for a special over-flight by the Space Shuttle Discovery docked to its 747 carrier aircraft. The Discovery is moving to its new home at the Smithsonian’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly. The Discovery has flown 39 missions, spent 365 days in space, and was the longest-serving orbiter in NASA’s shuttle program.

Transforming a Vision into Housing, Commerce

Creating an urban development, one land bay at a time.

First in a three-part series about Potomac Yard development.

Historic Huntley To Open at Last

Hybla Valley villa to become Fairfax County’s newest public park next month.

After decades of waiting, Historic Huntley will finally open its doors to the public next month. Officials with the Fairfax County Park Authority are planning a May 19 launch, a long-awaited opening for a historic property built in the 1820s by Alexandria Mayor Thomson Mason. The old house has been boarded up since being purchased by the Fairfax County Park Authority in 1989, when county leaders set out to restore the villa overlooking Hybla Valley. Since then, county voters have approved two bond referendum ballot items worth $3 million.

Fort Hunt Softball Volunteers Honored

More than 450 attend opening ceremonies.

The Fort Hunt Youth Athletic Association (FHYAA) Girls Softball Program held its opening day ceremonies on Sunday, April 16 at Walt Whitman softball fields. More than 450 players, coaches and family members attended the event. FHYAA has 154 girls signed up to play softball this season in three different leagues: U9, U12 and U18.

Thursday, April 26

Join in Mount Vernon CROP Walk

“Because they walk, we walk” is the theme of the 32nd annual Church World Services CROP Hunger Walk on May 6. Sponsored by area churches through Ventures in Community (VIC) and starting at St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, 8531 Riverside Road, Alexandria, the CROP Walk winds through the local community for 1.5 miles. Registration begins at 12:30 at St. Aidan’s, and the Walk begins at 1:30.

Commentary: New State Budget Misses the Mark

I voted against the final state budget last week because it fails to address our needs and reflects badly-skewed priorities. It was an eventful two days in Richmond.

Opinion: Will Virginia’s Health Care Improve Without Better Data?

The answer is “no.” The Virginia Health Reform Initiative Advisory Council (created by Governor McDonnell) stated the case for change in its 2010 report. “Virginia’s overall quality of care is average, with strengths in cardiac care, hospital care generally, and home health. Weaknesses in Virginia’s quality rankings include nursing home care, diabetes care, and maternal and child health. Specifically, Virginia ranks 41st in the nation in breast cancer death rates, and 35th in infant mortality. None of these statistics measure up to Virginia ranking sixth, nationwide, in median family income.”

Letter: Adverse Actions Have Consequences

To the Editor: Martin Tillett understandably wants to avoid having the downfall of the proposed Kings Crossing Town Center as his legacy in the civic arena. In prior letters to the Gazette, I've explained the role the Spring Bank Community Association (SBCA) played, under the leadership of Mr. Tillett and SBCA President David Dale in the demise of Kings Crossing (see my letter in the August 13, 2009 Gazette) and the resulting development of a Wal-Mart store on the property.

Letter: A Meeting Without Answers

To the Editor: Sunday April 22, at St. Stephens UMC in Burke, Fairfax County officials and elected supervisors (including Board Chair Sharon Bulova) met with over 200 volunteers from 36 church-based hypothermia shelters to ease our anxieties. We have heard rumor that the fire marshal has determined that 18 of these churches will not be able to open and operate their “hypothermia” ministry next year as they had in the past. This puts the hundreds of homeless individuals who use these facilities at risk of frostbite, hypothermia and death.

'Witness for the Prosecution' Opens at LTA

It's 1954 and Leonard Vole stands accused of the murder of a rich elderly woman whom he befriended. His wife's testimony could save him until she suddenly becomes a “Witness for the Prosecution” in the Agatha Christie thriller now playing at The Little Theatre of Alexandria.

Calendar for April 25

E-mail announcements to the Gazette, gazette@connectionnewspapers.com. Photos and artwork are encouraged. Deadline is Thursday at noon for the following week's paper. Call Steve Hibbard at 703-778-9412 with questions.

Poetry: Words

Words

Poetry: interconnections

interconnections

Poetry

The following poems, submitted because April is National Poetry Month, are from Alexandria residents.

Poetry: botanicals

botanicals

Building Upon Layers Of History

From Native American settlements to gentrified neighborhoods.

If you stand on the roof of a high rise apartment build in North Alexandria, you can get a sense of the extraordinary flatness of the Potomac Yard. You can see the Washington Monument and the Capitol dome across a skyline unbroken by anything but the occasional lifting off of a plane from Ronald Reagan Airport. To the left are the high rise buildings of Crystal City, but they are manmade break in the flat land which runs from the Potomac River south to below Old Town before a ridge of any significant height changes the contour of the country side.

Neighborhoods: Taylor Run

BROADWAY SUCCESS Nancy A. Gibbs, who formerly lived in our neighborhood on W. Taylor Run, has produced a new hit in New York. "Peter and the Starcatcher" is a prequel to Peter Pan. It explains how Peter and the Lost Boys attained their eternal youth, and why Captain Hook pursued them so relentlessly. The New York Times reviewed the show most enthusiastically. Janet and David Beckmann, of Park Road, went up to New York to the opening night, which they enjoyed tremendously. "Peter is a tour-de-force of the imagination," says Janet. " The audience could not have been more elated."

Walkathon Supports Project Discovery

The City of Alexandria hosted the 16th annual “A Walk in the Park … Strides Toward Success” Walkathon on Saturday, April 21, at the Fort Ward Park. Proceeds from the Walkathon benefit the Department of Community and Human Services’ Project Discovery-Alexandria — a program that helps low-income and/or first-generation students at T. C. Williams High and the Minnie Howard Campus to succeed in getting into and completing college. There are almost 100 students enrolled in the program this year. Since it’s inception in 1985 over 2,000 students have benefited from Project Discovery.

Miracle Leagues Begins Second Season, Prepares for New Field

The Miracle League of Alexandria began its 2012 season April 22 with a ceremony at the Lee Center field that included the presentation of several checks that will help fund a new Miracle Field.

ACT To Kick Off Spring for Alexandria Events

Gala to honor Ticer, Ariail family.

John Porter thinks big. As this year's group of events collectively referred to as Spring for Alexandria draws near, Porter has set some lofty goals for the May 2 kick-off online giving event Spring2Action.

Appreciates BZA Decision

To the Editor: Excellent reporting as usual by Michael Lee Pope in April 18 edition of Alexandria Gazette. We agree with the decision by Alexandria BZA that the City Planning Department ignored the plain language of its own zoning code and used creative interpretations "as a ruse to avoid public participation."

'God of Carnage' at Signature Theatre

It begins innocently enough: Two New York couples oozing affected politeness meet to discuss a playground scuffle between their sons. Painstakingly attentive to social niceties, they hope to talk things over in a calm, mature and rational way.

And Then there Was One

'Someone Who'll Watch Over Me' opens at Port City Playhouse.

It's been more than a quarter of a century since Irishman Brian Keenan, Englishman John McCarthy and American Terry Anderson were taken hostage in Beirut and held in a series of desolate cells throughout the city. Keenan was released after more than four years in captivity and went on to pen “An Evil Cradling,” a chilling account of his experience.

Botanicals

spring blooming on the walls of the Athenaeum

Taylor Run

Nancy A. Gibbs, who formerly lived in our neighborhood on W. Taylor Run, has produced a new hit in New York.

The Brainy Bunch

Alexandria teams head to national trivia championships.

Which U.S. president took early morning swims in the Potomac River? What were “poulaines” used to indicate in medieval Europe? What are the 10 least grossing Eddie Murphy movies?

Letter: Another Done Deal

It is no surprise to the residents of the Beauregard section of the West End that the Mayor/council and city staff are once again pulling another “done deal” in our neighborhood and that the push for a major redevelopment in this area is a result of the BRAC-133 and loss of property tax dollars.

Letter: City Can’t Subsidize Rents

There have been recent discussions in Alexandria about whether the city should purchase apartment complexes and convert them to subsidized affordable housing units.

Applause in the Form of $1,500

First Night donates to school music programs.

First Night Alexandria's board of directors voted unanimously April 19 to make monetary contributions to the music programs at T.C. Williams High School and George Washington and Francis Hammond Middle Schools.

Column: Keeping a Promise

The mission of Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) is to provide the environment, resources, and commitment to ensure that each and every student succeeds — academically, emotionally, physically, and socially.

State Award for Sherman

Dr. Morton Sherman, superintendent of Alexandria City Public Schools, is the recipient of the Virginia Association of Elementary School Principals 2012 Pathfinder Award.

Tensions Rising Between Arlington and Alexandria Over Transit Corridor

Alexandria leaders lash out at Arlington officials for backing out of an environmental analysis.

Tensions between Alexandria and Arlington are growing along Route 1, where city and county leaders are moving in different directions about how the jurisdictions want to create a high-capacity transit corridor.

Business Matters

Say goodbye to the Alexandria Sanitation Authority. Say hello to Alexandria Renew Enterprises, and get ready to pay two bills instead of one.

Wednesday, April 25

Freshman Girls Bring Home Another Victory for T.C. Crew

For the second time this season, the girls’ freshman 8 have brought home a victory for the T.C. Williams crew team, crossing the finish line nearly 10 seconds ahead of the competition at the Noxontown Regatta in Middletown, Del., this past Saturday, April 21.

T.C. Williams’ Huggins, Moss Compete in Capital Classic

Episcopal’s Fitzpatrick coaches Adala Moto, Savage.

It didn’t long for T.C. Williams senior T.J. Huggins to show he could play with some of the nation’s best at the 39th Annual Capital Classic.

Classified Advertising

Read the latest Employment, Home & Garden and Classified ads!

Connection Wins Public Service Award for Homeless Coverage

VPA Award for Journalistic Integrity and Community Service; plus 44 other awards.

The Connection Newspapers was awarded the Virginia Press Association Award for Journalistic Integrity and Community Service last Saturday, April 21, "for exhaustive coverage of homelessness in the newspaper's circulation area."

Column: Really?

Having recently upgraded my cell phone, I have finally, due to its larger keys and simplified data-entry process, learned how to enter “contacts” and their phone numbers as well as select some of these key contacts for speed-dialing.

Monday, April 23

Tall Order For Smart Growth Near Braddock Road Metro

City Council members set aside commercial land-use and height limit in Parker Gray.

Remember that commercial building that was approved near the Braddock Road Metro station? Well forget about it.

Friday, April 20

Classified Advertising

Read the latest Employment, Home and Garden and classified ads!

Thursday, April 19

Celebrating Opening Day for Alexandria Little League

Twenty-five teams took the field at Simpson Field for the annual Alexandria Little League opening day ceremony Saturday morning, April 14. League president Bill Gehrig introduced the teams as they paraded onto the field. Majors commissioner Rusty Rhodes and his two sons led the players in reciting the Little League Pledge.

Gunston Hall Museum Director Ousted by Regents After Year of Controversy

David Reese is out; Mark Whatford to serve as acting director.

After surviving more than a year of calls for his resignation, Gunston Hall museum director has been removed as head of the historic house site.

New Leadership At Gunston Hall

Museum director ousted by regents after year of controversy.

After surviving more than a year of calls for his resignation, Gunston Hall museum director has been removed as head of the historic house site. In a meeting last week, the Board of Regents voted to replace David Reese, effective immediately. Mark Whatford, a senior staff member, will serve as acting director until a permanent replacement is hired. The decision comes after harsh criticism of financial mismanagement and unprofessional behavior.

Calendar for April 19

Hollin Hills Hosts 2012 House & Garden Tour

Hollin Hills, the mid-century modern neighborhood in Alexandria, hosts its next House & Garden Tour on Saturday, April 28, from noon to 6 p.m.

Chamber to Honor First Responders with Valor Awards April 26

There was no time for careful deliberation. The water was swiftly rising as an elderly driver was trapped inside a submerged vehicle at the intersection of Edsall Road and Winter View Drive during the flash flooding that devastated the region on Sept. 8, 2011. Unequipped for swift water rescue, Lt. Patrick Lyon and firefighters Michael Chandler, Louis Simpson and Joseph Porcelli from Ladder Truck 208 quickly assessed the situation.

Helping Rebuilding Together Alexandria

Twenty-one volunteers from Safeway spent Thursday, April 12 constructing an outside porch and wheel chair ramp for John Patterson, a double amputee veteran of the Vietnam War. The volunteers also repaired broken faucets, painted, repaired a fence and pergola and planted a summer garden. Katherine Dixon, executive director of Rebuilding Together Alexandria said, “In addition to the $20,000 donation from Safeway, we leveraged a significant amount of volunteer help, discounted materials, and professional labor.”

SCAN Names 2012 Ally in Prevention Awardees

SCAN named Erick T. King, co-founder of the Capital Youth Empowerment Program (CYEP); Valerie Cuffee, who recently retired as division chief of Arlington County's Child & Family Services Division; and the late Cynthia Hull, former executive director of United Community Ministries, as the 2012 Allies in Prevention for Alexandria, Arlington and Fairfax, respectively. The award was given at SCAN's 10th Annual Allies in Prevention Awards Luncheon.

"Flight 905 Heavy"

The Space Shuttle Discovery, atop its Boeing 747 carrier, flies over Windmill Hill Park on Tuesday, April 17. The shuttle will become part of the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent collection at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly. The flight was referred to as “flight 905 heavy” on the air traffic control channel.

Culinary Classes for Children

Little gourmands cook up fun in the kitchen.

"If you lick your hands you have to wash them," said instructor Beth Bigler as she teaches a class of kindergartens students how to make vegetable pizzas. "Are these pickles?" asks a 6-year-old student as she clutches a dark-green, cylindrical vegetable in her tiny fingers.

Nancy Larsen Turner Dies

Nancy Larsen Turner, 83, formerly of Alexandria, died on March 2, 2012 at her home in Boonton, N.J. Born in Ogden, Utah, in 1928, she spent her childhood in Yellowstone Park, Wyoming, where her father worked for the Park Service.

Watershed Cleanup in Alexandria

Volunteers collected hundreds of pounds of trash from Four Mile Run Park in Alexandria on Saturday, April 14. The cleanup was organized by Alexandria’s Transportation and Environmental Services, Office of Environmental Quality and Solid Waste Division in conjunction with the Alice Ferguson Foundation. The foundation, established in 1989, organized watershed cleanup activities at 600 sites in five states on Saturday.

Baseball Legend Frank Howard Visits Sportsman's Club

He took the field with the likes of Carl Furillo, Gil Hodges, Pee Wee Reese and Ray Campanella. But Frank Howard didn't just play with baseball's finest, he was one of them, winning National League Rookie of the Year honors in 1960 and appearing in four All Star games for the American League from 1968 to 1971. On April 17, the former Washington Senator and Los Angeles Dodger spoke at the Alexandria Sportsman's Club and recounted some of the most memorable moments of his career.

No Butts About It: Ramparts Shifts to “No Smoking” Policy

The gang of regulars at Ramparts had a friendly wager going: How long would it take Butch Shunk to return after his vow to never again set foot in the popular Alexandria watering hole after its sudden shift to a no smoking policy on Easter Sunday? Some said three months but in the end it only took three days for the loyal customer to be back in his customary place at the end of the bar.

Alarm Over Fire Code at Shelters

Fairfax County officials respond to concerns about fire code violations at local shelters.

Spring fever hit the region early this year. Last week’s record-high temperatures had residents flocking outdoors to play, bike, jog and picnic.

Community Lodgings Celebrates 25 Years, Raises $40,000

More than 170 people turned out April 15 for the 7th annual “Spring Forward to Union Street,” a fundraiser to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Community Lodgings that also recognized program participant Harriet Owusu for her exceptional strides in attaining self-sufficiency.

Winifred Reilly Tracy Dies

Winifred Reilly Tracy died on April 11, at her home in Alexandria, of complications from Alzheimer’s disease.

Column: Seminary Valley

The West End is about to receive a great upgrade with the installation of a new playing field at Francis C. Hammond Middle School.

Letter: Expertise Needed

Prior to the April 10 meeting of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors (BOS), the meeting agenda listed an agenda item beginning on page 303 concerning a BOS vote to approve or turn down a new charter for the County's Tree Commission.

Letter: True Community Business

I am writing to thank the Harvey family for everything they've done in the 20 years or so that we've lived in the Fort Hunt area, fully aware that they had done the same things for years before we arrived.

Winifred Reilly Tracy

Winifred Reilly Tracy died on April 11, at her home in Alexandria, of complications from Alzheimer’s disease.

Letter: Neighbor Mourned

My neighbor and friend, Gen. William H. Montcrief, Jr, passed this week at 90 years old.

Letter: Just the Facts

ACPS facts ... no politics, nothing personal, no rhetoric:

Letter: A Perfect Symphony

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) marathon meeting on April 12 was a textbook perfect picture of collaborative decision-making at its best — equitable and obliging.

Letter: Too Late

I cannot understand why Mayor Euille thinks that VDOT should give Hunting Towers to the City of Alexandria.

Letter: Sound of Change

If the explosive eruption of Krakotoa in 1883 was a “sound heard ‘round the world,” the cheering you heard on Friday morning at 1 a.m., after the Board of Zoning Appeals reversed a City decision that prevented citizens from protesting a major waterfront zoning decision last January was heard all over Alexandria.

Letter: Smart Growth For Alexandria

Many Alexandrians are worried that more development inevitably means more traffic and a less desirable city.

Letter: How To Save Affordable Units

Folks need to understand a few things about Hunting Towers: * First, VDOT abused its acquisition (eminent domain) authority when it took all three towers when it only needed one and a few out buildings for the Wilson Bridge project;

Letter: Shortchanging Schoolchildren

How many more times do we have to read about the poorly performing schools twinned with internal issues?

Letter: Shortchanging Schoolchildren

How many more times do we have to read about the poorly performing schools twinned with internal issues?

New Fleet of Hybrid Trolleys on Its Way

Alexandria’s free King Street trolley service gets clean and green with the launch of an all-new fleet of hybrid trolleys on April 22.

Business Matters

Remember that commercial building that was approved near the Braddock Road Metro station? Well forget about it.

Week in Alexandria

The Alexandria Police Department is charging three California men with conspiracy to import marijuana into Virginia.

Virginia Supreme Court Hears Boat Club Case Against City and Restaurant

Old Dominion objects to City Council lease of public alley for private use.

Does Alexandria have the right to close Wales Alley? That’s an issue now before justices of the Virginia Supreme Court, who heard oral arguments in a case that’s divided Alexandria for years.

Wednesday, April 18

SSSA Girls’ Lax Avenges Spring Fling Loss to Good Counsel

Reed scored 5 goals for Saints, Phillips, Fogarty add 3 apiece.

While competitive situations are the norm for the St. Stephen's & St. Agnes girls' lacrosse team, an April 14 contest against Good Counsel presented a motivational scenario that captured the Saints’ attention.

Freshmen Excel for TC Crew

The boys and girls of the T.C. Williams crew team went their separate ways this past weekend, traveling to separate regattas on Saturday that were each marked by sunny skies, stiff competition, and stellar performances by the freshman boats.

TC To Host Capital Classic

T.C. Williams High School will host a day of high school basketball all-star festivities when the 39th Annual Capital Classic comes to Alexandria on Saturday, April 21.

Pleading for Restoring Funding for Human Services

Residents, agencies testify to need for community services.

After three years of deep budget cuts and declining revenue, Fairfax County is showing signs of fiscal equilibrium as property values and revenues begin a slow uphill climb.

Addressing ‘College Drinking Culture’

The Perils of the College Drinking Culture" forums continue through May.

It’s college decision time for Fairfax County seniors, and college-bound students and their parents are encouraged to attend an upcoming program that deals with binge drinking on college campuses. "The Perils of the College Drinking Culture" will be presented by the Unified Prevention Coalition of Fairfax County, in collaboration with the Fairfax County Police Department, in April and May at locations across the county.

Tuesday, April 17

Column: “Meagulpa”

As a veteran of the chemo wars, I should have been better prepared mentally for the food/taste challenges often caused by the infusion of such cancer-fighting chemicals, but I wasn’t.

Friday, April 13

Alexandria Real Estate: Top Sales in February 2012

In February 2012, 120 Alexandria homes sold between $2,375,000-$92,000.

Alexandria Real Estate: Top Sales in February 2012

Board of Zoning Appeals Overturns Planning Director's Determination on Waterfront Plan

City officials vow to appeal ruling to Circuit Court in dramatic turn of events.

The waterfront plan is dead, at least for now.

Thursday, April 12

Coffman, 64, To Run His 35th Boston Marathon

Sixty-four years old, he’s lean and light on his feet, his hair thick and white, and he glows with health and resilient cheerfulness.

Alexandria on Tour During Garden Week April 21

Information Centers and Restroom Facilities: Alexandria Visitors Center — The Ramsey House, 221 King street in Alexandria. Call 703-746-3301.

Nimiry’s Hat Trick Leads TC Boys’ Soccer to Victory

Titans score five goals in Patriot District opener against West Potomac.

The T.C. Williams boys’ soccer team had struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities early in the season, managing just six goals in five games en route to a 0-4-1 record. Against the Wolverines on April 10, the Titans found several ways to get the job done.

“Be Careful! The Sharks Will Eat You”

A riveting saga of survival at MetroStage.

He was just 4 years old when his father hurriedly whisked him away one dark, moonless night into the unknown. For Jay Alvarez, the journey was profound and one he shares in a riveting performance of “Be Careful! The Sharks Will Eat You,” a one-man show written and performed by Alvarez chronicling his family's flight from Fidel Castro's Cuba in 1964.

Alexandria Woman Wins $250,000

Eckley Finn of Alexandria was with her husband when they discovered she’d won $250,000 in Mega Millions.

Irene R. Jones Dies

Irene Reid Jones, 89 of Martinsville, Va., formerly of Warrenton, died on April 1, 2012, at Landmark Center, Stuart. She was born on Aug. 14, 1922 in Fauquier County, Va., a daughter of the late Eppa Clark Reid and Maude Lillian Moffett Reid; predeceased by her daughter, Delores M. Jones; five brothers and three sisters.

Richard Sandford Laurent Dies

Richard Sandford Laurent, 59, of Alexandria, died peacefully on April 7 at the Halquist Memorial Inpatient Center after a brief illness.

Alexandria Calendar April 11

In Support of Stratford Hall

Members and friends of the Alexandria Committee of the Robert E. Lee Memorial Association gathered March 8 at the residence of Latane and Patricia Montague on Prince Street for an evening celebration, rasing funds for Stratford Hall, home of the Lees of Virginia and birthplace of Robert E. Lee.

Interest in Budget Slows as Economy Picks Up

Employee compensation, human service funding compete for attention.

Rising property values, a relatively low unemployment rate, and the lack of hot-button issues — such as full-day kindergarten — have reduced public involvement in Fairfax County’s proposed $6.7 billion budget compared to recent years, according to county leaders.

Design with Children in Mind

BOWA Builders share tips for design that works for the whole family.

Whether it’s a closet, the kitchen or a study area, there are numerous ways to incorporate child-friendly design into any space, and children today are becoming more and more involved in the process. Even if the child is toddler-aged, simple tasks, such as picking colors, themes or bedding, can help them feel that they are part of the process.

From Home to Dream Home: Split Foyer to French Colonial

Sun Design Remodeling’s design solution for Mulligan home tops category in “Contractor of the Year” Awards.

Tastes change; so, too, an owner’s requirements of their home. In the early 1960s, for instance, no floor plan concept seemed better suited to the demands of modern life than the split level — which deployed half-levels to apportion interior space into sleeping zones, family gathering rooms and service areas.

Home Work

‘Why Is My Home Rotting Away?’

"Mike, why is my house rotting away!?" This is the kind of question brimming with alarm and horror that builders and remodelers often hear. "How old is your house?" I asked. "It’s only 15 years old." "Ray, your house is not rotting away, but the skin of your house might be."

Ribbon Cutting at New Hospital

The new IAH Mark Center had an official ribbon-cuttling ceremony on Wednesday, April 4.

Richard Sandford Laurent

Richard Sandford Laurent, 59, of Alexandria, died peacefully on April 7 at the Halquist Memorial Inpatient Center after a brief illness.

Irene R. Jones

TRCA Spring Meeting and Elections

The Taylor Run Citizens Association will host its annual Spring Meeting on Wednesday, April 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the George Washington Masonic Memorial.

Migratory

Great Egrets winter in Mexico and South America and breed along the shore, passing through this area in migration.

Old Town History: Bank of Alexandria

A fairly nondescript building sits on southeast corner of North Fairfax and Cameron Streets. It’s a bit taller than the others nearby, and forms a quiet bookend for the distinctive Carlyle House next door. It’s anonymity, however, belies its rich history.

Letter: Value of an Ombudsman

Recently a new group, Democrats for a Better Alexandria, has suggested that the City needs an Ombudsman (or Ombudswoman). According to Wikipedia, an Ombudsman is a person who acts as a trusted intermediary between government, and constituents, representing the broad scope of constituent interests.

Letter: Don’t Encourage ‘Magic Bullets’

As a desperate high school student just sliding by, I too would hope for a magic bullet cram course to improve my standardized test scores and chances of getting into college.

Letter: Fixing Flaws, Building on Successes

The following open letter is addressed to school staff and residents.

Letter: Consider Children’s Safety

The following letter was sent to the City Council and School Board.

Letter: Clear Cutting Of Trees

This morning I watched as contractors for WMATA cut down tree after tree after tree along the property line adjacent to my apartment complex.

Letter: Another Step for Smoke-Free City

The Mayor and City Council are to be congratulated for steps they have recently taken to address what Surgeon Generals of the U.S. have called the two leading causes of preventable death and disease in America: tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke. In January, the City Council, by a vote of 5 to 1, authorized the placement of signs discouraging smoking in all City-owned parks, playgrounds and bus shelters.

Letter: Hybrid School Board?

That in the past few months there have been issues of extraordinary concern and increasing public outrage over ACPS is well-understood.

Letter: Pay More Attention To City Schools

Where there’s smoke there’s usually fire. Unfortunately, for Alexandria City Public Schools, too few people have pulled the alarm.

Letter: GW Memorial Parkway Metro?

Although officially it is referred to as the Potomac Yard Metro, if the option to move the tracks closer to the GW Memorial Parkway is used, it creates a construction zone on the George Washington Memorial Parkway, and furthermore creates a right-in right-out for the trucks and mechanical equipment to use.

Letter: Time To Step Down?

The following letter is addressed to Dr. Morton Sherman, Superintendent of Schools, Alexandria City Public Schools.

Letter: Best Way To Spend $7 Million?

The mayor and the City Council have proven again that they do not represent their Alexandrian citizens.

Letter: Support Cleaner Environment

As a 14-year-old boy growing up in Virginia, I am so happy that President Obama has taken the time to create a plan to clean bodies of water and major rivers of the pollutant mercury.

Letter: Re-evaluate Public Amenities

The recently released Beauregard Small Area Plan Draft includes a complicated and risky provision that earmarks the increase in property tax revenue generated in the plan area into a separate fund.

City Wins Technology Solutions Award

PTI lauds email migration to cloud services.

The City of Alexandria, the first jurisdiction in the state to transition from on-premise enterprise messaging to cloud services, has been awarded the Technology Solutions Award for 2011-2012 by the Public Technology Institute.

Historical Society To Honor Madison, Lee

The Alexandria Historical Society has selected local historian Robert L. Madison and journalist Michael Lee Pope as winners of Special Alexandria History Awards for 2012.

Keep Pets Out of Hot Vehicles

As the region transitions into spring and the warm weather that accompanies it, Alexandria’s animal control officers will be enforcing the new ordinance passed in November 2011 prohibiting the confinement of animals in vehicles when the outside temperature is at or above 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Firefighters Respond to House Fire in Alexandria

On Sunday, April 8, at approximately 10:15 p.m., the Alexandria Fire Department assisted by the Arlington County and Fairfax County Fire Departments responded to a reported house fire at 1147 Palmer Place in Alexandria.

City Council To Hold Hearing on Tax Rates

The Alexandria City Council will hold a public hearing on the 2012 Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Rates on Saturday, April 14, beginning at 9:30 a.m. in City Council Chambers, Room 2400 (2nd Floor) at Alexandria City Hall, 301 King St. On March 13, the Alexandria City Council voted 5-2 to authorized advertising a maximum possible real residential property tax increase to $1.008 per $100 assessed value, an increase of one cent.

Police Investigate Attempted Abduction

Alexandria Police are investigating an attempted abduction and assault that occurred in the 2200 block of Mill Road. Around 5:30 P.M. on Tuesday, April 10, two females were grabbed by a man and pulled into a vacant building.

New Board Members at Volunteer Alexandria

Seven new members have been elected to Volunteer Alexandria’s Board of Directors.

Notice of Hearing

A criminal hearing will be held in Alexandria General District Court on Thursday, April 19, 2012, located on the second floor of 520 King Street, Alexandria, VA, on the following: Case GC12-1410.

Ireton Grad Rodriguez Earns Prestigious Sports Award

Football star served as Army Football team captain last fall.

Andrew Rodriguez, a 2008 graduate of Bishop Ireton High (Alexandria) and a member of the Army football team, was awarded the 2011 James E. Sullivan Award by the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) at the prestigious New York Athletic Club on March 20.

Ireton Graduate Earns Prestigious Sports Award

TC Crew Concludes Spring Break with Intra-Squad Scrimmage

The T.C. Williams crew team wrapped up a week of two-a-day practices over spring break by holding a time trial and an intra-squad scrimmage on April 7 at the Dee Campbell Boathouse in Old Town.

SSSAS Girls’ Lax To Host ‘Spring Fling’

The 21st Annual St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School Girls’ Lacrosse "Spring Fling" will take place on Saturday, April 14 at SSSAS. First games start at 10 a.m.

Business Matters

The city’s latest round of business and professional license taxes, which were due in March, reveal a city on the rebound.

School System Presents Site Plan to City Hall for Jefferson-Houston

Old school would be demolished; new school to be constructed in its place.

After years of failing test scores and faltering attendance, school officials now have a plan to demolish the existing Jefferson-Houston School and build a new one.

What Will Happen to Hundreds of Workforce Units at Southern Edge of Old Town?

Fate of Hunting Towers is at stake as VDOT considers sale on the open market.

After almost a decade as a reluctant landlord, the Virginia Department of Transportation is getting out of the property rental game.

Council Notebook

Del Ray is sometimes called “the little neighborhood that could,” a reference to the area’s history as a residential spot for railroad workers at Potomac Yard.

Wednesday, April 11

Classified Advertising

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Column: Look What I Saw, Really

A male patient sitting directly across from me being infused with his unique chemotherapy cocktail, a bit too far for a conversation, but certainly close enough for a knowing/empathetic glance.

Friday, April 6

Federal Prosecutors Uncover Schoolyard Prostitution Ring in Suburban Fairfax County

U.S. Attorney: Underground Gangster Crips led prostitution ring that spanned Northern Virginia.

The high school girls were threatened with violence if they attempted to leave. They were sexually exploited by customers of the sex trafficking operation as well as the men who ran the prostitution ring.

Jerome Nathan Sonosky Dies

Jerome (“Jerry”) Sonosky, a lawyer whose 40-year legal career started in the House of Representatives serving his hometown congressman and concluded as a partner with the law firm of Hogan Lovell (formerly Hogan and Hartson), died March 22, 2012, at Mount Vernon Nursing and Rehabilitation Center at the age of 82. He died from complications related to Parkinson’s Disease.

County Launches Transit Study

The Fairfax County Department of Transportation has launched its 2050 Countywide Transit Network Study. This study includes a survey of the public to develop recommendations for where Metrorail should be extended, where streetcars, light-rail or other transit modes are appropriate, and where dedicated lanes that allow buses to move faster could be built. The study will recommend transit improvements in various corridors that work together to improve/facilitate movement throughout the county, as well as how these transit modes can be phased-in and funded over time.

Area Health Students Win State Awards at Conference

Twelve Health and Medical Sciences students from Fairfax County Public Schools won awards at the 32nd annual HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) State Leadership Conference held recently in Williamsburg.

Bittersweet Wins Eighth Annual Great Rum Punch Challenge

Bittersweet was the big winner with its “Pomander Punch” on March 24 at the Eighth Annual Great Rum Punch Challenge at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, beating out runner-up Gadsby’s Tavern Restaurant, the defending champ Dogfish Head, and worthy competitors Bacardi, FireFlies, and RedRocks. This is the third win for Bittersweet, which took top honors in 2007 and 2009.

Notes from the Artistic Director

Patrons ask how do I come up with a season of plays and musicals, and I always respond that every single show has a different story of how it got to my desk. Favorite actors bring their favorite plays to my attention and if I fall in love with the play, it feels like a match made in heaven. Our reputation for launching new musicals (chamber size musicals-four to six characters, no more than five musicians, unit set) means I get a lot of demo tapes sent in my direction.

19-Year-Old Pianist Wins with 103-Year-Old ‘Rach 3’

Min Ji Lee won first prize playing one of the most challenging piano concertos in the standard classical repertoire — Sergei Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 3 in D Minor.

Gift Shop Hosts Meet the Artist Exhibit

What do Alexandria Meals on Wheels, Carpenter's Shelter and Christians for Sudan have in common? These three and many others receive financial support from the Historic Christ Church Gift Shop.

In Support of Child & Family Network Centers

On March 22, the home of designer Sydnye Pettengill served as the backdrop for The Child & Family Network Centers’ benefit kickoff. The event honored CFNC donors, and introduced 2012 Benefit Chair Elizabeth Reynolds Marino. Steering committee members include Lizzie Siegel, Ann Scully, Kim Gess and Lisa Herget. Committee chairs include Twig Murray, Tandy Harrison, Shazalynn Winfrey, and Alex Deringer.

Column: Taylor Run

SHERLOCK TO VANDERBILT Daniel Sherlock has been accepted for the master’s program in special education at Vanderbilt University. Daniel worked for years for the therapeutic recreation program here in Alexandria, as a result of which he developed his interest in the work.

Column: Seminary Valley

If it is Spring Break, graduation must not be far away. Congratulations are definitely in order for 10 T.C. Williams seniors who started out their ACPS careers at James K. Polk Elementary School as kindergartners. These Owl-Titans are: Michelle Avila, Haley Cooper, Abby Cox, Phillip Espinoza, Tiffani Gibson, Sam Jones, Layla Mustafa, Franz Vosseler, Rebecca Wood-Conover and Scott Young. Well done!

Old Town History: Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary

Martha Washington was ailing terribly in April 1802. Searching for help in that era of primitive medicine, she sent a man with a note to an apothecary in Alexandria. “Mrs. Washington desires Mr. Stabler will send by the bearer, a quart bottle of his best castor oil, and the bill for it.” Sadly, the treatment did not improve her health and she died the following month.

Wedding Vendors Gather at Carlyle House

Stacey Hawkins, Annette Miller and Karen Kilday hosted a wedding vendor fair March 24 at the historic Carlyle House in Alexandria. Calling Card Events specializes in small events and programs at historic sites in the local area. Caterers, vacation planners and gift shops staff were on hand to offer information and samples of most of their services. The group is planning two more wedding vendor events at Collingwood on June 16 and July 21.

‘Banking on Our Future’

Chairman, Founder and CEO of Operation Hope John Hope Bryant gave a special presentation to the afterschool math students at Hammond Middle School on March 29. Starting out with the theme of respect of each other and oneself, Bryant dove into the source of real wealth: that which is within each person. Bryant initiated a program “Banking on Our Future” to foster dignity and hope and teach financial literacy and economic self-sufficiency to low-income communities in the U.S., South Africa and Haiti. For more information on the program visit www.operationhope.com.

At Regional Housing Expo

The doors at Washington-Lee High School in Arlington opened its doors March 24 to the 2nd annual Northern Virginia Housing Expo. The Expo is sponsored by Fairfax-based nonprofit AHOME in cooperation with the Virginia Housing Development Authority, the cities of Alexandria and Falls Church, the counties of Arlington, Fairfax and Loudoun, and the Town of Herndon. The fair featured homeownership and rental opportunities and resources throughout Northern Virginia. Free classes included “Are You Ready to Rent?,” “Are You Ready to Buy?,” “The ABCs of Credit and Credit Scores” and “Financing Your Home.”

‘Hopa Tropa Kukerica!’

The Ambassador Theater presented “Hopa Tropa Kukerica!,” a Bulgarian masquerade with puppetry, song and dance April 1 at the George Washington Masonic Temple in Alexandria. The play was conceived and directed by Lilia Slavova with choreographer Ivan Dimitrov, set designer Antonio Petrov, puppet design by Julia Tashev and music arranger Petko Kilov. For more information on upcoming events visit www.aticc.org

Sportsman's Club to Host Frank Howard April 17

Washington baseball legend Frank Howard will be the guest speaker at the April 17 meeting of the Alexandria Sportsman's Club.

GenOn Donates $25k to the Alexandria Seaport Foundation

Representatives of GenOn gathered Feb. 10 at the Alexandria Seaport Foundation to work side by side with ASF apprentices and mark the donation of $25,000 to the nationally acclaimed nonprofit.

Helping Inova

The Board of Lady Managers held a fundraiser at The Little Theatre of Alexandria March 13 to raise money to purchase new anesthesia machines for Inova Alexandria Hospital. The new machines are part of the board's latest $500,000 pledge for the hospital. Above, event chair Barbara Brenman, Board president Cynthia Puskar and first vice president Ruth Corlett serve punch during intermission of “Heaven Can Wait.” For more information email TheBoardofladyManagers@gmail.com.

2012 Living Legends of Alexandria Honored

The 5th Annual Meet the Legends reception was held March 22 at the U.S. Patent and Trade Office where more than 300 people gathered to celebrate the 2012 Living Legends of Alexandria.

At GWMS

Recording artist and blues preservationist Curtis Blues sang and played at George Washington Middle School on March 2 to more than 300 students and teachers. His educational performance on the Mississippi Delta Blues wove together music, history and an inspirational message about creativity and character. Blues’ visit was sponsored by the Hammerheads, an afterschool club whose members had recently finished building their own cigar box guitars. Tech Ed teacher Kyle Godfrey sponsors the club in partnership with the Alexandria Seaport Foundation.

Cherry Dishes Compete in Alexandria

Restaurants help celebrate George Washington’s birthday.

Twelve years ago, the George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee was looking for a way to get the local restaurants involved.

Adams, Harris Engaged

Mr. and Mrs. Larry H. Adams, of Fairfax County, are proud to announce the engagement of their daughter, Lauren Akilah Adams to Wesley Alan Harris, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Harris of Columbia, Md.

Letter: Radle Endorses Shuttleworth

When I made the careful decision to enter the Democratic Congressional [8th district] primary, my goals were to help address the serious needs of the American people, invest in our future, enhance our quality of life, instill confidence in our nation, prevent future government shutdowns, and expand opportunity for every American.

Thursday, April 5

The Power of One in 'On the Waterfront' at The American Century Theatre

It has been hailed as one of the greatest movies of all time, winning eight Academy Awards for an all-star cast that included Marlon Brando, Eva Marie Saint, Lee J. Cobb and Karl Malden. But for playwright Budd Schulberg, himself an Oscar winner for Best Story and Screenplay, the 1954 film version of “On the Waterfront” was never quite the story he wanted told.

County Aims to Prevent Substance Use and Abuse

Alcohol use down, painkiller and inhalant use on the rise.

Twenty-one questions in the 2010 Fairfax County Youth Survey dealt with substance abuse. The survey asked about lifetime use of alcohol, marijuana and cigarettes, as well as use in the past month of 13 different substances.

Nutty: Squirrel Jams Transmission

A customer had his nearly new 2011 Toyota Camry towed into Alexandra Toyota because the transmission would not shift.

Alexandria and Arlington at odds Over Streetcars Versus Bus-Rapid Transit

Transit riders could have to get off the Arlington streetcar to board an Alexandria bus.

Arlington and Alexandria planning officials are moving in different directions along Route One.

Basketball’s Capital Classic Showcase Set for April 21

Preliminary game will feature Westfield’s Zach Elcano and former Chantilly player Kethan Savage.

The 39th Annual Capital Classic high school basketball event, set to take place on Saturday, April 21, will consist of a full day of All Star hoops games at T.C. Williams High in Alexandria.

Letter: ACVA’s Fruit Salad

Old Town Alexandria is not the same market as The City of Alexandria. Tourism ads for Old Town are not all tested before reaching the world.

Letter: Schools Should Re-Do Budget

Time is running out or Alexandria’s Adult Education program. In three months, our successful Alexandria Adult Learning Center will cease to exist.

City of Alexandria Launches Mobile Website

The City of Alexandria has launched a new mobile-friendly design that makes it easier to browse the City's website on a smartphone. Approximately 20 percent of all visitors to the City's website now access the web from a mobile device.

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Alexandria City Council Campaign Shifts Westward As Two New Candidates Enter Race

Displacement of poor and Latino citizens to be central issue in upcoming campaign.

With two more candidates entering the race for Alexandria City Council, the lines of combat are moving west.

Business Matters

Alexandria's chief tourism promoter Stephanie Pace Brown is leaving a city her organization calls “Charm-ville.”

Week in Alexandria

In an emotional speech to the Alexandria Democratic Committee Monday night, four-term Del. David Englin (D-45) said he will not seek reelection to the House of Delegates next year.

Wednesday, April 4

Episcopal Boys’ Lax Team Cruises Past T.C. Williams

Junior Dubose, freshman Davy score 3 goals for Maroon.

In an Alexandria public-private school matchup, public school T.C. Williams was no match for Episcopal, which built a 9-0 lead and cruised to a 16-2 victory on March 31.

TC Rowers Take Home Three Victories at Noxontown

The T.C. Williams crew team traveled to the St. Andrew’s School in Middletown, Del., on March 31 to compete in the Noxontown Regatta, a contest that saw the Titan rowers go up against some of the best boats in the Mid-Atlantic region and come home with three victories by the end of the day.

Arlington Aerials Have Successful Championship Showing

The Arlington Aerials gymnastics team attended the Level 8-9 State Gymnastics Championships on March 24 and 25. The meet was held at the U-Turn Sports Center in Richmond.

Letter: Radle Endorses Shuttleworth

Bishop O’Connell Students Awarded at Science Fair

Five students from Bishop O'Connell High School presented independent research projects at the Northern Virginia Regional Science Fair held at Wakefield High School in early March. All five of them returned to school with multiple awards and recognition.

Tuesday, April 3

Column: Infusing Is Semi Amusing

So here I go again; heavy-duty chemotherapy for the first time in nearly three years. As such, I thought I’d try and write another column while actually sitting in the Barcalounger at The Infusion Center (as I did three years ago: “Chemo-Cocktailing at the Depot” was that column’s title) and see what my pen has to say.

Video: Englin Admits to Being Unfaithful in Marriage; Announces He Will Not Seek Fifth Term

Delegate makes announcement in emotional speech to Alexandria Democratic Committee

In an emotional speech to the Alexandria Democratic Committee Del. David Englin (D-45) announced he will not seek a fifth term to the Virginia House of Delegates.

Monday, April 2

Alexandria Native Quinn Hynes in "The Hunger Games"

Student answers call for extras.

Poverty and defeat are the trademarks of District 12, the coal-producing region of Panem in Suzanne Collins’ box office success, “The Hunger Games.” For Alexandria native Quinn Hynes, however, being a member of District 12 was a dream come true.