Friday, August 31
Calendar: Aug. 29, 2012
Upcoming events and activities.
Notes from the Producer: Jacques Brel is Alive and Well at MetroStage
Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living is Paris is a classic. It landed in New York in 1968 with an English translation and played at the Village Gate for four years.
Pupcakes Raise $1,000
For five days the girls sold the decorated pupcakes. Their personal goal was $500.
Alexandria School Notes: Aug. 29, 2012
Alexandria School Notes
Promoting Back-to-School Traffic Safety
Next week all Alexandria students will be back in school so Alexandria Sheriff’s Deputy Valarie Wright is spreading the word about traffic safety by distributing posters and giveaways for AAA’s annual “School’s Open Drive Carefully” campaign.
RTA Receives $15,000 Grant
Rebuilding Together Alexandria, a volunteer-based, non-profit organization that preserves affordable housing and revitalizes communities, received a $15,000 grant from the Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation this month.
Obituary: Gilbert Zimmerman
Gil Zimmerman, 94, died on Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2012 at his Woodhaven residence in the Williamsburg Landing retirement community in Williamsburg, Va.
Letter: Aug. 29, 2012
‘Demolition By Neglect’
The following is an open letter addressed to Mayor Bill Euille and members of City Council.
Letter: Aug. 29, 2012
Clear Choice For Mayor
In considering the upcoming mayoral election, it is essential to examine Mayor Bill Euille’s recent record as the leader of the City Council.
Letter: Aug. 29, 2012
Voice for Education
For many years, Rob Krupicka has been a voice for education in Alexandria; it is time his voice is heard in Richmond as a delegate for the 45th.
Letter: Aug. 29, 2012
More Than Sound Bites
Ron Rigby and others maintain that it is unreasonable to ask Mayor Euille to debate his mayoral opponent, Andrew Macdonald, for more than a few minutes at any debate. They say that the Mayor is too busy “running the city” or “The Mayor has a city to run.”
Letter: Aug. 29, 2012
Thank You, Bruce Johnson.
The citizens of Alexandria owe a debt of gratitude to Bruce Johnson, who is retiring from city government.
Scuba for Wounded Warriors
Patriot Scuba instructors offered recreational scuba diving lessons to a number of military veterans in the pool at the Holiday Inn at Eisenhower Avenue on Saturday, Aug. 25.
Defense Is Strength of Titans Field Hockey
T.C. Williams field hockey team beats Hayfield in its tournament opener.
Thursday, August 30
T.C. Williams Football Loaded with Playmakers
Titans to open 2012 season at home against Wakefield.
The T.C. Williams football team is loaded with playmakers entering the 2012 season.
Celebrating Lenny Harris at One Love Festival
On Saturday afternoon, Aug. 18, the field at Braddock Park filled with friends, neighbors and the family to celebrate the One Love Festival and the legacy of Lenny Harris.
Lee-Fendall House Hosts Great Gatsby Ice Cream Social
The house and garden of the Lee-Fendall House opened for an afternoon Ice Cream Social on Sunday, Aug. 26.
Classified Advertising Aug 29, 2012
Read the latest Classified ads here!
How Much Money for Retirement?
Too many underestimate what they need.
Some of the conversation and discussion at Senor Law Day on Saturday, Oct. 13 from 9 a.m. to noon at First Baptist Church at 2932 King Street will include funding a retirement.
Covert Matters
Alexandria’s Dave Johnson for President
I’m absenting myself from the national political conventions this year.
Column: How Teamwork Saves Lives
Earlier this year, I shared some of Inova Alexandria Hospital’s successful efforts to improve quality of care for heart attack patients.
Alexandria Bulletin Board 8/29
Alexandria Bulletin Board 8/29
Working To Create Fitting Memorial
Contrabands and Freedmen’s Cemetery Memorial on pace for Spring 2013 opening.
In Spring 2007, the City of Alexandria purchased a desolate and overgrown lot on the southern edge of town and promptly razed the site’s two buildings.
Carlyle House and the War of 1812
Re-enactors in 19th century costumes roamed the grounds and home of John Carlyle on Aug. 18 re-enacting life during the siege of Alexandria during the War of 1812.
Kids @ Play
Design Day drawings help create dream playground.
More than 40 Alexandria children joined Washington Capitals mascot Slapshot and Elliot Segal of the Elliot in the Morning Show at the Charles Houston Recreation Center Aug. 15 for Design Day, a day set aside for children to draw their dream playground for Old Town's Hopkins-Tancil Court area.
State Commits $1 Million to SySTEMic Solutions
General Assembly provides funding over next two years towards science and technology courses.
Despite high unemployment rate, many companies in the technology and research industries have unfilled positions because they cannot find enough skilled workers.
‘Best Little Whorehouse in Texas’ at Signature Theatre
It was known as The Chicken Ranch, a century-old “business” in La Grange, Texas, that earned its nickname for accepting chickens as payment for services rendered.
Letter: Separate and Unequal - II
Your editorial in the titled "Separate and Unequal ?" [The Connection, July 25-31, 2012], addressed the "eye-popping" disparately low admission of Black and Latino students to Thomas Jefferson High School, and the complaint that this was "in voilation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1965 which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, and national origin."
Known and Unknown: What Would Candidates Do In Richmond If Elected?
Two candidates in special election say they don't know what bills they would introduce next year.
Voters in next week’s special election will be faced with a choice between the familiar and the unknown in the Sept. 4 special election.
Wednesday, August 29
Alexandria Home Sales: July, 2012
In July 2012, 207 Alexandria homes sold between $1,645,000-$89,000.
Alexandria Home Sales in July, 2012
Column: Diagnosed But Not Sick
Having/being diagnosed with cancer/a terminal disease is neither fun nor funny; however, unless I find some humor or wishful thinking in how I approach this situation, I don’t suppose I’ll be approaching it much longer. To me, it’s always been mind over matter, and even though these matters are rather serious, I still don’t mind.
Tuesday, August 28
How To Register, Vote and Vote Early
Election Day is Nov. 6, but you can vote as early as Sept. 21.
How important is it for Virginia voters to turn out on or before Nov. 6? As a critical “battleground” state, Virginia will be key in determining who will be the next President of the United States. Who will represent Virginia in the U.S. Senate is also too close to call. Since polling shows that there are very few undecided voters in the Commonwealth, every eligible voter will want to be sure to cast a ballot.
Saturday, August 25
Project Highlights Alexandria's Living Legends
Since Alexandria was founded in 1749 it has harbored Living Legends the likes of George Washington and his compatriots, Yankee and Confederate soliders of the Civil War, heroes of World War I and II, and the “Now Generation.” Until five years ago few of these legends were recognized, but then came Nina Tisara and her vision to start an Alexandria Living Legends program.
Residents Value Waterfront, Old Town
Things to do, places to go.
Sitting on the western bank of the Potomac River, the city of Alexandria boasts of a variety of restaurants, retail establishments and historic sights.
Connect and Contribute
Service and citizen's associations lead community engagement.
Alexandria is home to many diverse neighborhoods, each with its own traditions. As each neighborhood has developed, so have the service groups and citizens associations that provide more than just an opportunity to meet and greet your neighbors.
There's No Place Like Home
A look at what makes Alexandria unique.
As the hometown of George Washington and Civil War General Robert E. Lee, the city of Alexandria attracts visitors from near and far to enjoy America's historic main streets.
Sign Me Up
These clubs are anything but traditional.
In a tale nearly as old as time, Groucho Marx famously resigned from the Friars' Club in 1949, saying, “I don't want to belong to any club that would accept me as one of its members.”
Getting Down to Business
Navigating the ABC's of Alexandria.
The acronyms run from ACBA to WEBA and represent various business associations from the waterfront to the West End. Whether you are new to the city or a long-time resident, following is a primer that explains the ABC's of Alexandria.
Out of Tragedy, a Foundation To Help Others
Alexandria Community Trust is family’s living legacy in honor of Norma Lang Steuerle.
Once there was an Alexandria family of four that regularly acted on an individual’s responsibility to serve others in need. Each member was well educated and appreciated the community’s “diversity of people — racially, financially, in thought and in socio-economic status, that for the most part embraced Alexandria’s potential.” They were givers.
Commentary: A Man (and Woman) About Town
In 1942, Cecelia and her husband, Floyd*, moved into a row home on Duke Street, promising to each other that it would be their last move.
Letter: Elect the Person, Not the Party
After plowing through David Speck’s nearly full-page defense of Alexandria politics status quo, I put down the Gazette Packet, closed my eyes and dared to dream of the day when citizens can elect a person because they share our goals and have the talent to achieve them; not because they cloak themselves in the robes of a political party.
Letter: Doesn’t West End Matter?
Four West End civic associations extended an invitation to Andrew MacDonald and Bill Euille to debate this fall to allow citizens to make an informed decision. As this debate is expected to focus on West End issues, the three dates available were based on Hammond School availability.
Letter: Don’t Minimize Citizens’ Anger
When David Speck (letter to the editor last week) says that if someone isn’t mad at you, you aren’t doing your job right, he implies that it was right for the city to have approved of BRAC-133. If one judges by the number of Alexandrians angered by the construction of this building so far from a metro stop, the city is doing a great job.
Letter: Get Beyond Debating Debates
Mayor Euille is ready and willing to debate his opponent one-on-one. During this busy 2012 election season, Alexandrians have been bombarded by political ads and activities, and Mayor Euille has been more than accommodating to Mr. Macdonald’s interest in debating him. Macdonald seems more focused on politicizing the debate issue rather than focusing on issues that Alexandrians care about.
Editorial: About the Gazette Packet, a Connection Newspaper
The paper you're reading, the Alexandria Gazette Packet is one of 15 papers published by the independent, locally owned Local Media Connection LLC, serving the suburbs of Metropolitan Washington in Northern Virginia and Potomac, Md.
Letter: Moderate Voices Exist
I write this letter in response to David Speck’s commentary here in Opinion (Aug. 16) regarding dominance of the Democrat party in Alexandria City.
Friday, August 24
Opinion: Mindless Slashing
Automatic cuts set to kick in January would harm Northern Virginia more than any other region.
While reducing the federal deficit is critical to the nation's economic health in the long run, the knee jerk, slash and burn method based only on cuts that is coming at us like a freight train will do immense damage to the economy nationally. But no place would feel the pain more intensely than Northern Virginia.
Thursday, August 23
Hidden History of St. Asaph Racetrack
Del Ray was once home to an infamous gambling operation creating by a double-dealing senator.
You’d never know it today, but Del Ray was once the capital of gambling in Northern Virginia.
Voters to Have Final Say on Waterfront Plan as Legal Challenges Linger
Boat Club occupies the Strand as tensions mount over controversial small-area plan.
Last weekend, members of the Old Dominion Boat Club staged an annual ritual that’s something of a cross between a tailgating party and Occupy Wall Street. Every year, members shut down a section of the Strand for several hours to make sure everybody knows that the land is officially Boat Club property. The yearly affirmation usually goes without much notice.
Wednesday, August 22
Classified Advertising Aug. 22, 2012
Read the latest Home and Garden, Employment and Classifieds here!
Column: Life in the Cancer Lane
Having been there and done that now for three and a half years certainly helps. And however familiar it may be and/or has become, it doesn’t exactly help to pass the time or affect the results, unfortunately. Cancer sucks! That much is clear. Now and in the future.
Thursday, August 16
$30,000 to Community Lodgings
Walmart funds after-school programs for teens.
No sooner had Community Lodgings Executive Director Bonnie Baxley been presented a check for $30,000 from Walmart store manager William Hunsucker, she asked for more. “Do you have any tents?” she queried.
Mayhem and Marathons
LTA performance raises $7,500 for local charities.
The madness and mayhem, not to mention the meat pies, were the theme of the night as Brooke Curran and ACT's Running Brooke Fund raised more than $7,500 for local charities including ACTion Alexandria, Community Lodgings, The Reading Connection, Child and Family Network Centers and Girls on the Run at a special benefit performance of “Sweeney Todd” Aug. 7 at The Little Theatre of Alexandria.
Dog Days of August
Celebrate the Dog Days of August in poems and pictures. Alexandria's poet laureate, Amy Young, invites the residents of Alexandria to visit their local dog parks from Aug. 18-26 to view poems written and submitted by Alexandria residents in honor of the dogs in their lives.
Journey of Hope
T.C. grad cycles 4,000 miles for disability awareness.
As the strains of Bruce Springsteen's “Born in the USA” blared out over crowd, more than 50 friends, family members and fellow T.C. Williams graduates gathered on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Aug. 5 to watch Alexandria's Louis Barnett cross the finish line in the 25th Annual Journey of Hope bike ride across America.
Classified Advertising Aug. 15, 2012
Read the latest Classified, Home and Garden and Employment!
Making Ice Cream, Colonial-Style
As the temperature and humidity raced toward 90 on Aug. 4, chocolate ice cream was being made in the green house at the Mount Vernon Estate.
Week in Alexandria
Seven Alexandria businesses got stung last weekend during a regularly scheduled crackdown on businesses that sell alcohol to minors.
Waterfront Politics Unfold in the Courtroom and on the Campaign Trail
Three separate lawsuits still moving forward as mayoral campaign heats up.
For those keeping score in the ongoing war over the Alexandria waterfront, opponents have scored one major victory and supporters have scored one major victory.
On the Campaign Trail
So far, three-term Mayor Bill Euille has yet to agree to a one-on-one debate with independent challenger and former Vice Mayor Andrew Macdonald.
Three-Way Race for the House of Delegates Special Election
Voters to choose between Democrat, Republican and Libertarian in lightning-fast campaign.
Voters in the special election for the House of Delegates have a variety of choices, offering candidates on the left and the right and somewhere in between.
Wednesday, August 15
Royce Honored
Marie Royce was recognized as the 3rd Annual Legend of International Business and Marketing at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. Legends of IBM annually identifies either an outstanding alumnus or professor emeritus who has made a significant contribution to the fields of international business and/or marketing over a sustained period of time.
$1,700 Aids Boys & Girls Clubs
Occasionally Cake of Alexandria donated $1,700 to the Dunbar Alexandria-Olympic Branch of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, collected during its grand opening ceremony. The shop had committed to give away 25 percent of their sales that day and also gave away more than 3,000 free cupcakes to patrons at their Mount Vernon and Alexandria stores. Call 703-780-CAKE or visit www.occasionallycake.com for more information.
Kennedy Named Branch Vice President
Kathleen Kennedy has been named branch vice president of the Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Alexandria/Old Town office, located at 301 King Street.
Neighbohood
Seminary Valley
Several of our young neighbors have been “treading the boards” this summer. At the Little Theatre of Alexandria, Zachary Frank, Sam Jones and Ben Ribler are finishing up their run this Saturday, Aug. 18 as members of the “Sweeney Todd” cast. Zach and Ben had featured roles as Pirelli the Barber and as Toby, respectively, while Sam rounded out a top-notch ensemble. You might be able to snag a ticket: go to www.thelittletheatre.org for more information. The day after the show closes, Zach and Sam will head to college, at William and Mary and Christopher Newport University, respectively, and Ben will start his senior year at T.C. Williams High School. Another T.C. Williams student, Charlotte Torres, deserves a shout-out, having just finished performing in “Urinetown”, a production of the Theatre Lab School of the Dramatic Arts in Washington D.C.
Military
Military Notes
Marine Corps Pfc. Michael P. Davis, son of Natasha L. Ayers of Centreville, and Eric K. Woods, of Alexandria, recently completed 12 weeks of basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C. Marine Corps Pvt. Catherine E. Miller, sister of Kevin F. Miller of Alexandria, Va., recently completed 12 weeks of basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C.
Letters to the Editor
Not Listening Or Not Agreeing?
To the Editor: I read with great interest the thoughtful letter recently co-authored by Gant Redmon about the state of politics and governance in Alexandria. Although it has been over 17 years since I changed parties, I was a beneficiary of his efforts so when I write to offer an alternative perspective to Gant’s concerns about the dominance of the Democratic Party in Alexandria it in no way lessens my respect for him or my genuine friendship with him.
About City’s Financial Future
To the Editor: In his Aug. 2 critique of Macdonald’s letter, Mark Williams asserts the following: rating agencies don’t consider tax hikes when considering a city’s credit rating; that the mayor “has no unilateral role in establishing the city’s taxable base budget or levy rate;” Macdonald’s mischaracterized Alexandria’s fiscal prognosis as being somewhat “negative;” and finally says Macdonald “may not appreciate” how Alexandria’s capital improvements are actually financed.
Important Debates
To the Editor: Mayor Euille has now declined an invitation from a consortium of West End Civic Associations to attend a debate with his opponent, Andrew Macdonald, on any one of three dates suggested by the debate organizers. His campaign manager states in the letter of rejection that “Mayor Euille’s campaign plans to host events and meet with residents of the West End of the City over the next couple of months.” That clearly says that the Mayor has time to campaign only at venues attended by supporters. When the Mayor’s campaign is the host, obviously the attendees will be present at his invitation. Just the fact of being his guests will stifle meaningful discussion.
Ballyshaners’ Irish Festival
The Ballyshaners hosted their annual Irish Festival on Saturday, Aug. 11 at Waterfront Park. Music and dance filled the stage throughout the afternoon and evening as visitors wandered through the numerous vendor stalls offering Celtic treasures. Local politicians also purchased booths in support of candidates in the upcoming elections.
Calendar
Alexandria Harmonizers Concert. 7:30-8:30 p.m. The Alexandria Harmonizers, men's barbershop group, perform a variety of musical harmony. Sit around Market Square on bench seating, or bring a folding chair to enjoy the music. Market Square, 301 King St. Call 703-746-5592.
$30,000 to Community Lodgings
Walmart funds after-school programs for teens
No sooner had Community Lodgings Executive Director Bonnie Baxley been presented a check for $30,000 from Walmart store manager William Hunsucker, she asked for more. “Do you have any tents?” she queried as those gathered Aug. 8 at the Community Lodgings Fifer Family Learning Center laughed. “We just found out that we need one more tent for an upcoming event and everyone knows I'm not shy about letting people know what we need.”
Inmates’ Educational Efforts Praised
The Alexandria Sheriff’s Office hosted a graduation ceremony July 19 to honor the recent educational accomplishments of 14 inmates at the William G. Truesdale Adult Detention Center. Sheriff Dana Lawhorne congratulated the inmates not only for their special achievements but for challenging themselves and investing in their future.
Mayhem and Marathons
LTA performance raises $7,500 for local charities.
The madness and mayhem, not to mention the meat pies, were the theme of the night as Brooke Curran and ACT's Running Brooke Fund raised more than $7,500 for local charities including ACTion Alexandria, Community Lodgings, The Reading Connection, Child and Family Network Centers and Girls on the Run at a special benefit performance of “Sweeney Todd” Aug. 7 at The Little Theatre of Alexandria. “This is an incredible cause,” said Elizabeth Luchessi, a Running Brooke Fund supporter and sponsor of the LTA performance. “It's really great seeing the traction that Brooke is getting and all the impact she is having on the community.” In attendance were representatives from Curran's beneficiary organizations, including Community Lodgings executive director Bonnie Baxley. “We are so grateful to Brooke for all she has done to support us,” Baxley said.
Mayhem and Marathons
LTA performance raises $7,500 for local charities.
The madness and mayhem, not to mention the meat pies, were the theme of the night as Brooke Curran and ACT's Running Brooke Fund raised more than $7,500 for local charities including ACTion Alexandria, Community Lodgings, The Reading Connection, Child and Family Network Centers and Girls on the Run at a special benefit performance of “Sweeney Todd” Aug. 7 at The Little Theatre of Alexandria. “This is an incredible cause,” said Elizabeth Luchessi, a Running Brooke Fund supporter and sponsor of the LTA performance. “It's really great seeing the traction that Brooke is getting and all the impact she is having on the community.” In attendance were representatives from Curran's beneficiary organizations, including Community Lodgings executive director Bonnie Baxley. “We are so grateful to Brooke for all she has done to support us,” Baxley said.
Video Receives Public Relations Award
A video of Virginia’s legal leaders discussing the issue of attorneys and substance abuse received a Capital Merit Award during the 65th Virginia Public Relations Awards ceremony held in May at The Jefferson Hotel.
Journey of Hope
T.C. grad cycles 4,000 miles for disability awareness.
As the strains of Bruce Springsteen's “Born in the USA” blared out over crowd, more than 50 friends, family members and fellow T.C. Williams graduates gathered on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Aug. 5 to watch Alexandria's Louis Barnett cross the finish line in the 25th Annual Journey of Hope bike ride across America.
Tiny Dancers Receives Top Honors
Tiny Dancers, located on S. Washington Street in Old Town, has been voted “Best Ballet or Dance Studio”' in the July 2012 issue of Washington Family Magazine. This is the third year in a row that the company has received this award.
Poetry AX 8/15/2012
3 poems about The Athenaeum's current art show
Dog Days of August
Celebrate the Dog Days of August in poems and pictures. Alexandria's poet laureate, Amy Young, invites the residents of Alexandria to visit their local dog parks from Aug. 18-26 to view poems written and submitted by Alexandria residents in honor of the dogs in their lives. The 2nd Annual Dog Days of August is sponsored by the Alexandria Commission for the Arts.
FOIA, How To Avoid Real News
For some time a one-way brouhaha has been bubbling between the Fourth Estate and local governments. The on-going battle at the moment is like a one-way love affair and no fun. This is not something new in the news business. Nor is it solely a problem that only involves the Alexandria city government and public schools. Throw in the counties of Fairfax, Arlington, Prince William and Loudoun and the problem exists even more. In fact, Harry Potter’s magical coat is evident everywhere. Governments love hiding facts and the public is "shielded" by city hall obfuscation.
Business /notes
Inova Alexandria Hospital (IAH) has launched two critical trials- Ultrasound-Accelerated Thrombolysis for Pulmonary embolism (PE) and Prostatic Artery Embolization for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate. IAH was the first in the U.S. to enroll a patient in the SEATTLE II trial, offered at only 25 hospitals. The trial uses the EKOS EkoSonic Endovascular Device which employs high-frequency, low power ultrasound to deliver clot-busting medication, tPA to the arteries at the time of an embolism.
Bulletin Board
Thursday/Aug. 16 CARD Virginia School will host open house 6:30-8:30 p.m. for families of children ages 3-12 with autism spectrum disorders. CARD (Center for Autism and Related Disorders) offers a program with a one-to-one student-teacher ratio and 215 days of instruction per year. At 5400 Shawnee Rd. Suite 208. Visit http://virginia.centerforautism.com or call 855-345-2273.
Wright To Read Reorganizes
The longtime literacy program Wright to Read, serving Alexandria children, will become a separate, independent non-profit 501 c3. Frank and Betty Wright started the Wright to Read program in 1979 as a part of their family foundation. Since that time, Wright to Read has provided tutoring and mentoring services for elementary school children who fall behind in reading skills. As part of The Frank and Betty Wright Foundation, Wright to Read was administered from 1979-2010 by The Campagna Center, a community non-profit serving Alexandria children and families.
Westminster Awards $20,155 in Grants
Westminster Presbyterian Church, a North Ridge landmark church founded in 1940 with a commitment to local mission work, announced the awarding of $20,155 in new grants to five Alexandria charitable organizations: Alexandria Neighborhood Health Services (ANHSI), the Alexandria Seaport Foundation, United Community Ministries (UCM), Computer CORE, and Space of Her Own (SOHO).
Donate School Supplies at Four Sites
Alexandria City Public Schools is collecting school supplies for children in grades K-12. Visit http://www.acps.k12.va.us/back-to-school/ to see the complete lists of needed supplies. The drop-off locations and times are:
Renovation Work At Park Playground
The Mount Jefferson Park Playground, 301 Hume Avenue, is under construction and renovation now through Oct. 12. The renovation will include installation of new play equipment and site furniture, new rubberized safety surfacing, and new drainage systems. The playground and adjacent multipurpose court is closed to the public during construction. For a list of City of Alexandria Playgrounds and Tot Lots, visit http://alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/recreation/info/PlaygroundsandTotLots.pdf.
Alexandria Mentoring Partnership Seeks Volunteers
The Alexandria Mentoring Partnership is looking for volunteers. Interested residents should attend a mentoring information session on Tuesday, Aug. 21, at the Lyceum, 201 South Washington Street, Alexandria, from 6:30 –8 p.m. A light meal will be served.
Hurley Graduates from West Point
Matthew Brett “Matt” Hurley of Mount Vernon graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point on May 26. He received his bachelor of science degree and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army within his chosen branch: Infantry. He has already reported to Fort Benning, Ga. for a succession of training courses.
Become an Election Officer
Residents are invited to become a part of history by serving as an election officer for the City of Alexandria during the Nov. 6, Presidential Election. The Alexandria Electoral Board is looking for civic-minded individuals with basic computer user skills who are interested in the election process and are available to help on Nov. 6.
Ireton Looking To Match, Eclipse Last Year’s Success
Cardinals’ 2011 season ended in heartbreaking fashion.
The Bishop Ireton football team looks to maintain its winning ways.
Hurley Graduates from West Point
Matthew Brett “Matt” Hurley of Mount Vernon graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point on May 26. He received his bachelor of science degree and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army within his chosen branch: Infantry. He has already reported to Fort Benning, Ga. for a succession of training courses.
Column: A Pill a Day…
Hopefully will keep the cancer at bay. (I’d say “away,” but let’s be realistic, three and a half years past a NSCLC diagnosis, there is no way, generally speaking, that stage IV lung cancer disappears into the ether; it’s classified as stage IV for a reason.
Friday, August 10
Friendship Firehouse Marks 238th Birthday
The 100 block of S. Alfred Street was blocked off on Saturday, Aug. 5 for the annual Friendship Firehouse birthday celebration.
In With the Old
Vintage Mirage celebrates new location.
After serving Alexandria for eight years at 210 N. Lee St., Elinor Coleman's Vintage Mirage celebrated its recent relocation with a wine and cheese reception July 26 at the new location on South Columbus Street.
Oh, What A Night!
National Night Out promotes police-community partnerships.
The enthusiasm was infectious across Alexandria as dozens of neighborhoods came together Aug. 7 to celebrate National Night Out, a program designed to promote neighborhood spirit and law enforcement-community partnerships in the fight against crime.
He’s Legionnaire of the Year
Jim Glassman, Vietnam veteran, first to win award in history of Post 24.
Jim Glassman walked into Alexandria's American Legion Post 24 on July 25 expecting the Executive Committee meeting he was attending to be routine. But his fellow officers and board members knew otherwise.
Letter: Irony of Tissue Comment
I note the irony in Ms. Lee Perkins’ letter of July 26 in which she likens the McDonnell administration’s attitude toward women as “disposable as Kleenex.”
Obituary: Ruth Delones Seaton
Ruth Delones Seaton, 82, of Stuart, Fla. died on Thursday, Aug. 2, 2012 at Treasure Coast Hospice in Stuart.
Celebrating Obama’s Birthday in Old Town
Hawaii Islanders and Obama supporters celebrated President Barack Obama’s birthday at Hunting Point on the Potomac in Alexandria Saturday, Aug. 4, with a barbeque, birthday cake, and music.
Covert Matters
Hot Day at Polls and No Food
I found the way to Cora Kelly Rec Center about midday Saturday. Took several turns, wrong ones of course, down Commonwealth Avenue, Mount Vernon Avenue then on to Dewitt and Hume. Eventually I got the nerve to stop to ask for directions.
‘Who You Gonna Call?’
Past President, Senior Services of Alexandria
"Mom's in the hospital following a fall and surgery. Just this morning the social worker called to say they are discharging her to a rehabilitation facility tomorrow and I need to approve of the placement! But I don't know anything about this place or what to expect!"
First Day Out
The summer sailing camp at the Washington Sailing Marina on Daingerfield Island is in full till as the students take to boats and try their hands at navigating the wind to the sails.
Letter: Must Work with Republicans
Thoughts on political/party compromise.
Obituary: Clifton Elmer Howard
Clifton Elmer Howard died on Aug. 1, 2012 while being treated for congestive heart failure at Fauquier Health Rehabilitation & Nursing Center located at Warrenton, Va. He was 92 years old.
Markussen Receives Scholarship
On July 27, the Constants family of Annapolis, Md., headed to the Jersey Shore to present an Alexandria resident with the first Olivia Constants Foundation college scholarship.
RTA Receives Home Depot Foundation Grant
Rebuilding Together Alexandria, a volunteer-based, non-profit organization that preserves affordable housing and revitalizes communities, has been selected as a Home Depot Foundation 2012 Community Impact Grant recipient.
55 Restaurants Offer $35 Menus
For 10 days this summer, restaurants throughout Alexandria will offer a $35 prix-fixe three-course dinner or $35 dinner for two.
Summer Sidewalk Sale Returns to Old Town
The streets of Alexandria will be buzzing with shoppers on Saturday, Aug. 11 at The Third Annual Old Town Summer Sidewalk Sale.
Oregon Wine Tasting with Biggio Hamina Winery
On Monday Aug. 13, from 6-8 p.m., The Butcher’s Block will host an Oregon wine tasting with Biggio Hamina Winery winemaker and proprietor, Todd Hamina.
Thursday, August 9
Classified Advertising Aug. 8, 2012
Read the lastest Classified, Employment and Home and Garden ads!
Week in Alexandria
Alexandria police officers have arrested a man they say is responsible for a rash of burglaries from automobiles over the last few months in the Rosemont neighborhood.
Enrollment Spikes Again as Schools Prepare for Opening Day
Classrooms are packed to capacity throughout the city.
With the first day of school fast approaching for most of the city’s public schools, central administration officials are scrambling to respond to dramatic enrollment increases.
Should Virginia Compensate for Dark Days of Eugenics?
Del. Patrick Hope (D-44) asks governor and General Assembly to form a task force.
The number of victims is unknown in Virginia’s system of forced sterilization, a dark chapter that stretched from the 1920s into the 1970s.
On the Campaign Trail
What happens to City Councilman Rob Krupicka’s seat if he is elected to the House of Delegates next month? Fortunately for Democrats, it’s too late to have yet another special election.
A Stark Choice: Candidates in Special Election Are on Opposite Sides of Key Issues
Voters to choose between radically different views in September.
The summer of 2012 is turning out to be the hottest political season in recent memory, and not just because of the record-breaking temperatures.
Wednesday, August 8
Letters to the Editor 8/8/12
Letters to the Editor
Hot Day at Polls and No Food
I found the way to Cora Kelly Rec Center about midday Saturday.
Alexandria Bulletin Board 8/8/12
Announcements
Column: Derive to Survive
Now that I can taste food again, or rather have food taste like normal again, my attitude is much improved.
Thursday, August 2
12th Annual Arlandria Chirilagua Festival
Gathering at Arlandria Chirilagua Festival
Tenants and Workers United hosted the 12th annual Arlandria Chirilagua Festival at Four Mile Run Park on West Reed Avenue on Sunday, July 29.
'Sweeney Todd'
LTA serves up Sondheim's macabre musical.
The story hasn't changed, the music is hauntingly familiar and of course the body count remains the same. But with The Little Theatre of Alexandria's production of “Sweeney Todd,” you will be seeing the macabre musical of Stephen Sondheim as if it were for the first time.
Friendship Firehouse Festival Celebrates 238th Birthday of Historic Fire Company
The Friendship Veterans Fire Engine Association will hold its annual Friendship Firehouse Festival on Saturday, Aug. 4, 2012, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
After the Storm
Port City Brewing's 'Derecho Common' beer to be tapped Aug. 3
When a derecho swept through the area June 29, downed trees and power lines left more than a million people without power during a record-breaking heat wave. Alexandria residents and businesses alike were left scrambling to salvage what they could of any perishable products. For Port City Brewing, that meant trying to save the beer.
Alexandria Irish Festival
The 27th annual Alexandria Irish Festival will take place Saturday, Aug. 11, 2012 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Waterfront Park in Old Town Alexandria.
Barber and Felt Engaged
Nicole Marie Barber, daughter of Dave and Joann Barber of Eden Prairie, Minn. and Justin Ennis Felt, son of Jack and Judy Felt of Alexandria, would like to announce their engagement and August wedding.
Alexandria Bulletin Board 8/1/12
Alexandria Bulletin Board Events
Alexandria/Mount Vernon Calendar Events 8/1/12
Alexandria/Mount Vernon Calendar Events
Classified Advertising (Aug. 1, 2012)
Read the lastest Employment, Home and Garden and Classified ads!
Lightning Campaign Pits Longtime Elected Official Against Progressive Newcomer
Democrats to determine special election candidate this weekend.
This week, Democrats will determine their candidate in a special election blitz campaign that offers little time for voters to learn much about their options.
Two Detectives Assigned to Investigate Rosemont Crime Wave
Theft from vehicles has become an alarming trend; police encourage residents to lock doors.
Lock your doors. That’s the message from the Alexandria Police Department, which is currently engaged in an effort to address a growing trend of thefts from vehicles in the Rosemont neighborhood.
Week in Alexandria
This week marked the first day of school at Mount Vernon Community School, which has about 100 more students than last year. It was also the first day of school at Tucker Elementary School, which has about 100 more students than last year. When the rest of the city’s schools open after Labor Day, Alexandria is preparing for a massive crunch.
Business Matters
As members of the Alexandria City Council enjoy their summer recess, elected officials turn to their day jobs. For Councilman Frank Fannon, that means trying to close some mortgage loans for SunTrust Bank — if he can.
Wednesday, August 1
Cancer-Free Randolph Returns to Titans
Coach missed final six games of 2011 season.
T.C. Williams head football coach Dennis Randolph was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2011, causing him to miss the final six games of the season. One year later, he's cancer-free and back coaching the Titans.
News Brief
Good Shepherd Housing Awarded
Good Shepherd Housing and Family Services was recognized by the Center for Nonprofit Advancement as the 2012 winner of the Board Leadership Award.
Neighborhoods
Seminary Valley
It may be the dog days of summer, but there is a lot of neighborhood action and news to take in before we head into fall.
Tax Holiday This Weekend Exempts School Supplies
Annual event assists customers and businesses.
A sharp new wardrobe, a perfect notebook, and a new school year go hand in hand. Back-to-school shopping is a yearly tradition for students and parents, and this weekend marks the seventh year of Virginia’s school supply tax holiday.
Letters to the Editor 8/1/12
Letters to the Editor
Shumard Helps Preserve History
From George Washington Birthday Parade organizer to president of Friendship Veterans Fire Engine Association.
In Alexandria, Joe Shumard’s name and the Alexandria George Washington Birthday Parade are almost synonymous.
Rotary Installs New Officers
Petniunas takes reins as 85th club president.
The Rotary Club of Alexandria formally installed Raymond V. Petniunas as the 85th club president at the July 10 meeting at Belle Haven Country Club that also recognized the 2012-2013 slate of officers and board members.
The Eyes Have It
Brahm Opticians celebrates 25 years.
Nancy Benjamin was 16 years old when she decided that she wanted to be an optician.
Column: Choosing My Words, Respectively
It has been brought to my attention by some regular Kenny-column readers – who are friends, too, and whose opinions I value, that my most recent batch of “cancer columns” (as I call them) were not funny; in fact, they were more depressing and negative than anything, and not nearly as uplifting and hopeful as many of my previous columns have been.
Getting a Body Like an Olympian
Local fitness gurus offer gold medal advice for achieving a toned, muscular body.
Muscular legs, toned abs and buffed biceps are hard to miss in London this week, but is it possible for the average sports fan to achieve a body like an Olympian? Local fitness experts say "maybe."
Taking Care of One’s Teeth
American Dental Association says many Americans don’t know basic oral care.
Here’s a pop quiz: How often should a person replace their toothbrush? "Once a year," said Terrie Andrews of McLean.
Beating Bad Breath
Dental experts offer solutions for chronic halitosis.
When Amanda Welch’s boyfriend asked her to marry him last spring, she accepted his proposal on one condition: that he find a cure for his bad breath.
Editorial: Readers Respond on TJ Admissions
"Stop making smart 8th graders feel inferior because they are not admitted."
Readers responded to last week's editorial, which cited a civil rights complaint about the apparent lack of access to gifted and talented programs and admission to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology.