Thursday, March 29
Harry ‘Bud’ Hart Recommends: ‘Be Other-Centered’
“If you’ve got a gift, spread it around.”
“Mr. Bud’s coming! Mr. Bud’s coming! Mr. Bud’s coming to read to us!” For more than 20 years, that has been the chant of children at ALIVE! who, literally, hang on every word that Harry “Bud” Hart reads to them.
Youth Showcase Theatrical Talents
Last weekend parents and patrons were treated to a showcase of rising talent on stage at the Little Theatre of Alexandria.
Toast to Fashion Benefits Campagna
Fundraiser sparkles with fashion, food and fun.
With glittering displays of spring fashion trends and accessories, the ballroom of the Belle Haven Country Club was transformed into a fashion-lover’s dream during the Campagna Center’s 13th annual Toast to Fashion on Thursday, March 22.
'The Rock Stars Of Alexandria'
Salute to Women Awards 2012.
The Alexandria Commission for Women held its 32nd annual Salute to Women Awards March 26 in a ceremony that honored 14 individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the community.
Spring Fever! in Alexandria
Record-breaking temperatures made it feel like Spring long before it became official March 21. And just as the blossoms all over town are breaking out of their winter hibernation, so are activities that make Alexandria come alive. From festivals to fairs, Little League games, theater classes and garden tours, Alexandria offers something for every form of Spring Fever.
‘Land of Eternal Spring’ Blesses Volunteers
International charity workers visit Aldersgate.
“The Land of Eternal Spring” is what Guatemalans call their country, and Aldersgate United Methodists doing mission work there return home to the States feeling renewed and blessed.
Stratford Landing Raises More Than $24,000
Families from the Stratford Landing Elementary community enjoyed an evening of fun while raising more than $24,000 at the school’s annual Spring Fling/Silent Auction and Ice Cream Social Friday night, March 23.
Walt Whitman Celebrates 50th Anniversary
Walt Whitman Middle School opened in 1961, the school facility has moved three times and is now located near the intersection of Parkers Lane and Sherwood Hall Lane in Mount Vernon.
Status Quo Of Gridlock
In the March 22, 2012 article entitled “Hyland Calls For Meal Tax,” the supervisor correctly notes that money is needed for schools and roads. Fairfax County cannot continue to rely only upon the real-estate tax for revenue. The Mount Vernon Visioning Task Force, Transportation Committee, recommended that Fairfax County adopt and impose the transportation impact fee that the Virginia Assembly authorized in 1989.
Mother Nature Is Local Resident
Some in the Mount Vernon area think Mother Nature moved away, perhaps to the shore or the mountains. Not true. She still lives in the neighborhood and likes folks to visit. Two locations stand out.
Adelia H. Baldwin Dies
Adelia H. Baldwin, 81, long-time resident of Stratford Landing and Stratford Woman’s Club member, died on March 21, 2012 in Annapolis, Md. Delia was born on May 27, 1930 to Leonard E. and Mattalee Hoefgen in San Antonio, Texas. She attended Mary Baldwin College in Staunton, Va. and received a bachelor of arts in elementary education from The University of Texas at Austin. On Feb. 14, 1950, Delia met her husband-to-be, Jess Baldwin, on a blind date, and they married two years later on June 9, 1952. A consummate military wife, Delia packed, moved, and resettled her family in 18 locations, which included a tour in Nuremberg, Germany, during Jess’ 29-year U.S. Army career.
Cynthia Nan Hull Dies
Cynthia Nan Hull, executive director of United Community Ministries in Alexandria, died March 16, 2012 from complications of non-smoker's lung cancer at Mount Desert Island Hospital, Bar Harbor, Maine.
Letter to Editor: Appreciate Support
Earlier this month, we traveled to Orlando, Fla. to compete in the National Dance Alliance (NDA) National Championship. Being invited to this competition was a tremendous honor and an incredible experience that we will always remember. We were one of only three teams (out of 88) who were there for the first time.
Sabatier Named FCPS Teacher of Year
Charles Sabatier, a physics teacher at Mount Vernon High School, has been named the Fairfax County Public Schools 2012 Teacher of the Year. Sabatier will represent FCPS in Virginia’s Teacher of the Year competition; the winner will be announced in the fall.
Letter: Rebuilding Public Trust
The public appears to have lost trust in the Alexandria Public School Board and its superintendent in the wake of the recent independent audit which revealed likely unethical activity on the part of employees of the Alexandria Public School system.
Letter: Old Town And Density
Waterfront development in Old Town Alexandria is a bear. With only a narrow strip of land between a wide, polluted river and a national historic district of substantial importance and size, this is an Olympic-size challenge.
Letter: Serve Bicyclists Better
I am writing about the Beauregard Small Area Plan and the future of transportation in Alexandria.
Letter: Moderates Shifting Parties
Former Democrat councilman and local party chairman Lonnie Rich asks: “how the Republicans have become the anti-development party?”
Letter: Stop Misuse Of Zoning
On April 12, The Zoning Board of Appeals will review the protest petition signed by over 200 abutters of the three development sites within the City’s waterfront plan.
Column: Having Fun Isn’t Just for Kids
Recreation programs for older Alexandrians.
There are many factors that go into maintaining good health — proper nutrition, physical activity, socialization, and mental exercise as well.
Column: A Lifetime of Memories for $100
The framed pictures on the walls of Victoria’s Alexandria home tell a thousand stories … a son who is in the Navy, vacationing at Point Lookout, and even a picture of her meeting Princess Diana.
Column: Introducing Inova Alexandria Hospital at Mark Center
Join the dedication on April 4.
On April 4, Inova Alexandria Hospital will dedicate our newest healthcare addition — Inova Alexandria Hospital at Mark Center — located at 1800 N. Beauregard St., in Alexandria.
Column: Tourism Marketing Benefits City
As president & CEO of the Alexandria Convention & Visitors Association, it is my pleasure to lead a team that is dedicated to our mission of increasing visitor spending in Alexandria.
Veteran Coach West Trying To Rebuild TC Girls’ Lax
Titans drop Patriot District opener to Lake Braddock
The T.C. Williams girls’ lacrosse team showed some fight in the second half of its Patriot District opener against Lake Braddock, starting the final 25 minutes with a 4-0 run. By that point, however, the Bruins had already proven to be the superior squad on its way to victory.
TC Crew Opens Season Against Washington-Lee
The T.C. Williams crew team kicked off the spring 2012 rowing season on March 24 at the Dee Campbell Boathouse in Old Town with its first and only home regatta of the year — a scrimmage against longtime rival Washington-Lee that not only provided the Titan rowers with, in the words of boys’ head coach Pete Stramese, "a good litmus test" to start the season, but left both Stramese and girls head coach Mercedes Kiss feeling confident about the team’s prospects moving forward this spring.
Business Matters
The Old Town Farmers Market is about to get a little later.
Council Notebook
For years, city leaders have thought the surface parking lot at the King Street Metro is just too suburban.
Census Records Show Alexandria is Getting Older and More Educated
New report shows shifting black population and an increase in African-born residents.
Alexandria is getting older and more educated, and its residents are increasingly likely to take public transportation to work.
Struggling Nonprofit Fights Against Cuts to At-Risk Children
City Council members consider elimination of Urban League program for troubled youth.
Since 1981, the city of Alexandria has been funding an Urban League program to help at-risk youth.
Wednesday, March 28
17 New Artists join Torpedo Factory Through Annual Jury Process
The Torpedo Factory Artists’ Association welcomes seventeen new artists through the annual jury held March 19-23 at the art center. An outside panel of art experts made the selection from among 84 artists who applied during this year’s annual jury process.
Midori and Friends Visit T.C. Williams
It was the chance of a lifetime for members of the T.C. Williams High School youth orchestra as world-renown Midori spent March 27 coaching aspiring musicians as part the legendary violinist's week-long Orchestra Residencies Program.
Fine Arts for March 28
March 23 to May 6 "In Medusa's Company." Ceramic artist Judith Kornett's works at the Schlesinger Center Margaret W. & Joseph L. Fisher Gallery at the Alexandria Campus of Northern Virginia Community College. Opening Reception Saturday, March 31, from 3 – 5 p.m. with Artist’s Talk at 4 p.m.
Calendar for March 28
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.
Classified Advertising
See the latest Employment, Home and Garden, and classifieds!
Column: Peculiar Presence
In the last few months, out of the blue, I have received electronic correspondence from each of my three oldest childhood friends (none of whom have remained adulthood friends, though all three remain of interest to me) commenting on my cancer diagnosis; each having stumbled across one of my cancer columns online, presumably after initiating a Google-type search for yours truly.
Northern Region Sports Roundup
Lloyd to be inducted into basketball shrine.
The Lee High boys’ soccer team (1-2-1), under head coach John Millward, was able to hold off a late charge by the Oakton Cougars to win 1-0 in Lee's home opener this past Tuesday night, March 27. After a quick re-start, and some quick midfield play, Luis Aguilar, a senior forward, found senior midfielder Jamie Ahmed, who took a one-touch into space then placed a 36-yard shot into the upper net with 12 minutes left.
Tuesday, March 27
NOVA Women Capture State Basketball Crown
Vienna’s Carlie Zirkle earns MVP honors.
The Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) women’s basketball team won the 2012 Virginia Community College System (VCCS) Championship by defeating Southside Virginia Community College, 48-26. The tournament was held March 2-4 in Chesapeake. Former Marshall High standout Carlie Zirkle (Vienna) received the most valuable player honor and was named to the All-Tournament team, along with Halley Cummins (Vienna) and Yvette Gilliam (Woodbridge).
Editorial: Interrupting Harassment and Bullying
Empowering bystanders to intervene, students to set boundaries.
With a controversial and much discussed new movie, "Bully," coming out this week, local school districts continue to wrestle with the issue of bullying in the schools.
Thursday, March 22
Letter: Community Disconnect?
The silly season is upon us, the time of year in which the Mount Vernon Council (MVCCA) passes budget resolutions in which it urges the Board of Supervisors to raise every conceivable tax so that sufficient funding is available for the progressive spending the MVCCA supports. This year is no different.
Letter: Falling from Middle Class to Poverty
While the economy shows signs of improving, many in our area are still facing hardships and struggling to make ends meet.
Letter: Problem with Assuming
Can you tell a person's race merely by the color of their skin? Apparently, H. Jay Spiegel can.
Letter: Government Intrusion
In my previous letter, in response to H. Jay Spiegel’s commentary on Del. Scott Surovell’s voting record during this year’s legislative session, I asked how Mr. Spiegel could “suggest that any of Del. Surovell’s positions rise to anywhere near the level of ‘government intrusion in our lives’ represented by the infamous ‘personhood’ and ‘trans-vaginal ultrasound’ bills.”
Letter: Changes Ensure Ballot Integrity
Ensuring the integrity of the ballot box is just as important as ensuring that everyone has access to the voting booth. And while hardly the strictest in the nation, Virginia’s new voter ID law allows for other forms of ID to be used if a driver’s license is not available on Election Day. Furthermore, a voter without a photo ID can still vote using a provisional ballot — and such ballots are available at every polling station.
Aldersgate Methodists Confront a Mountain
Cinderblock after cinderblock, hefting trowel after trowel of mortar, mission trip after mission trip, Aldersgate United Methodists are intent on transforming an impoverished Guatemala community perched 12,500 feet up on San Antonio Mountain.
Column: Breast Cancer Charities - Knowledge is Power
Recent controversial decisions made by the Susan G. Komen organization have thrust the ethics of breast cancer fundraising into the national spotlight. While Komen's choice of fund allocations threatened their status as a non-partisan entity, the practices of breast cancer charities as a whole are being closely examined.
Teen Arrested After Pursuit
An Alexandria teenager faces numerous charges after leading Virginia State Police in a pursuit through Prince William County Monday, March 12. The 17-year-old male is being charged with reckless driving, driving on a revoked license, possession of a stolen vehicle and one felony count of eluding police.
Margaret Brennan Danaher
Margaret Brennan Danaher, born Nov. 12, 1917, died on March 10, 2012, in Coronado, Calif., after a short illness. Margaret was born and raised in Covington, Ky.
Learning To Clean Teeth
Alaris Bentley, 9, played the role of dentist and leaned the dentist’s chair back to examine Dr. Angela Austin’s teeth at Alexandria Children’s Dentistry.
Taylor Run
Successful Blind Date
Krista Kendlmyer, born and raised in New Jersey, went to Texas to visit her brother in 1979; there she went on a blind date with Karl Kendall, a petroleum engineer working for an oil company down there.
Space-Struck Resident
Wernher von Braun —centennial of his birth is March 23 — came to rest locally.
For his entire life, Wernher von Braun looked up and wished to be one with the stars. In the end, he became one with the earth, and that earthly plot is in Alexandria.
Fitzgerald’s Warehouse
The city of Alexandria enjoys a rich and colorful history, one that began in colonial times and has encompassed periods of industrial concentration, wartime pressures and residential booms.
Letter: Appropriate Action Taken
I am surprised by the continuing debate about the school system's CIP budgeting deficiencies. The superintendent's review of vendor complaints uncovered these actions. The superintendent promptly brought the facts to the School Board. The School Board promptly authorized an independent inquiry.
Letter: City Needs To Explain Budget
Although City Council reportedly instructed the city manager to submit a budget that does not raise taxes (it is an election year), he submitted a budget that does take more money from us.
Letter: Violating Scenic Easements
Last Month, I appeared before the City Council to venerate the George Washington Memorial Parkway. So you can imagine my disappointment about the following proposal, apparently being pushed by the City and according to National Park Services, quite forcefully.
Letter: Bolster Sense Of Community
Is Alexandria’s sense of community being undermined by city budget cuts? I don’t know the answer to this, but it’s a question worthy of debate.
Letter: Appointed School Board Needed
Regarding the recent news of the report/study done by the accounting firm of Robinson,Farmer, Cox Association for ACPS, isn't it amazing how Superintendent Sherman completely attempts to divert attention from his responsibility as superintendent of Alexandria Public Schools and points the finger of blame on upper management employees who have either resigned or been terminated.
Letter: Think Things Through
Councilwoman Hughes is and was correct in her "fiscal budgetary" no vote on opening a continuing education facility at Landmark Mall.
Letter: No Need For Cars?
Michael Lee Pope’s “Parking the Guests”, although a mere news brief, puts in sharp relief the lies developers and their city hall allies peddle to the public under the “transit-oriented development” fad du jour.
Letter: City’s Students Deserve Better
The people of Alexandria would be wise to recall the headlines of 2004 when ACPS Superintendent Rebecca Perry was arrested for driving while intoxicated as she left a school board meeting; that is, as she left work.
Letter: Fast-Tracking Beauregard Plan
At the March 17, City Council meeting, the Mayor and several Council members took exception to a statement the Beauregard Small Area Plan is being “fast tracked.”
Keepers of the Flame
SSA gala to honor family service legacies.
Pearl S. Buck once said that the test of a civilization is in the way that it cares for its helpless members. For Senior Services of Alexandria Executive Director Janet Barnett, the mission to help Alexandria care for some of the city's most vulnerable citizens is vital and will take center stage as the annual Generation to Generation Gala honors three families for their legacy of service.
Learning Behind Bars
Inmate appreciates jail high school program.
Terrance Kerney had to come east to earn his high school education. Of course, his original intent wasn’t to come from Los Angeles to Alexandria to go to class.
Lockwood Celebrates 40 Years with Coldwell Banker
Anne Lockwood, sales associate at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage’s Alexandria/Old Town Office, recently celebrated her 40th year with Coldwell Banker.
Firefighters Extinguish Fire in Basement
The Alexandria Fire Department, with the assistance of Arlington and Fairfax County Fire Departments, responded to a report of smoke filling a home in the 1200 block of Janneys Lane on March 9 at 8:21 a.m. Firefighters arrived within 4 minutes of being dispatched and found smoke on the first floor and basement of a single family home.
Classified Advertising
The Latest Employment, Home and Garden, and Classified Ads!
Susan Makara Named 2012 Friends of the Torpedo Factory Artist of the Year
The Friends of the Torpedo Factory Art Center named Susan Makara, TFAA artist, as the 2012 Artist of the Year on Feb. 9. Laurie Fields was named runner-up.
Mount Vernon School Notes March 21
Send announcements to the Mount Vernon Gazette, by e-mail to gazette@connectionnewspapers.com. Deadline is Thursday at noon for the following week’s paper. Photos are encouraged. Call Steve Hibbard at 703-778-9412 with questions.
Bulletin Board March 21
To have a notice listed, e-mail gazette@connectionnewspapers.com. Call Steve Hibbard at 703-778-9412 with questions.
Military Notes March 21
Air Force Airman Nicholas J. Cahill graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. He is the son of Jill Timberlake of Franconia Road, Alexandria. The airman is a 2009 graduate of Thomas Edison High School, Alexandria.
Fine Arts for March 21 to 28
March 23 to May 6 "In Medusa's Company." Ceramic artist Judith Kornett's works at the Schlesinger Center Margaret W. & Joseph L. Fisher Gallery at the Alexandria Campus of Northern Virginia Community College. Opening Reception Saturday, March 31, from 3 – 5 p.m. with Artist’s Talk at 4 p.m.
Calendar for March 21
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.
Business Matters
The metaphor usually used for governing is making sausage. Although you might appreciate the final product, you don’t want to see it being made.
Week in Alexandria
Everybody knows that Baltimore is Charm City. But what is Alexandria?
Wednesday, March 21
Does Music Make Children Smarter?
During Music In Our Schools Month, musicians raise awareness of impact of music education on lives of students.
Can playing the piano strengthen a child’s reading and math skills? Can joining a school band be a catalyst for building self-confidence? Does one develop strong analytical abilities by taking violin lessons? Some music experts say yes.
Saints’ Reed Wants To Prove She’s Earned Accolades
Junior attacker is already all-time leading goal scorer for SSSAS lax.
St. Stephen's & St. Agnes junior Carly Reed has pretty much done it all in her high school career, but remains driven to succeed by a desire to prove she has earned the accolades bestowed upon her.
'Brother Russia' Comes to Life at Signature Theater
Born in a remote Siberian village, he was raised impoverished and uneducated yet became powerful enough to infiltrate a Russian dynasty. Such was the journey of Grigori Rasputin, whose story is brought to life in the world premier musical of “Brother Russia,” now playing at Signature Theatre.
Exciting All-Star Afternoon
Concorde/Patriot All-Stars beat the Liberty/National team 109-108 in overtime.
West Potomac's Bryant Fultz threw down a fourth-quarter alley-oop dunk from fellow Wolverine Randall Brobbey, scored a team-high 15 points and earned game MVP honors as the Concorde/Patriot All-Stars defeated the Liberty/National team 109-108 in overtime at Wakefield High School.
Rodriguez Wins 2011 Sullivan Award
Bishop Ireton grad named nation’s top amateur athlete
Army standout and 2008 Bishop Ireton graduate Andrew Rodriguez was named the winner of the 2011 James E. Sullivan Award in a ceremony held March 20 at the New York Athletic Club.
Rodriguez Wins 2011 Sullivan Award
Bishop Ireton grad named nation’s top amateur athlete.
Army standout and 2008 Bishop Ireton graduate Andrew Rodriguez was named the winner of the 2011 James E. Sullivan Award in a ceremony held March 20 at the New York Athletic Club.
Risky Behavior by the Numbers
Youth Survey highlights risks, assets for students.
Periodically, Fairfax County conducts a youth survey which polls thousands of students to get a glimpse into issues of substance abuse, antisocial behaviors as well as factors such as mental health and civic engagements.
Tuesday, March 20
Talk of the Town: The Ladies of Old Town
The Wanderer celebrates women every single day.
The Wanderer celebrates women every single day. But, this week he would like his followers to note these special women for their contributions to the Old Town retail community.
Editorial: ‘Practices That Undermine Trust’
Virginia gets a failing grade on ethics rules.
The State Integrity Investigation is "designed to expose practices that undermine trust in state capitols — and spotlight the states that are doing things right."
Column: “Here, There And Everywhere”
The Beatles sang it on their “Revolver” album back in the mid 60s. My wife and I danced to it in the late 70s when we selected it as “first song as husband and wife” – in 1978. And recently we felt it, three years after my stage IV lung cancer diagnosis, as our reaction/assessment to the many similarly diagnosed individuals who’ve shared their lung cancer stories with us. Who knew?
Friday, March 16
Alexandria School Board Standing By Embattled Superintendent
Members regret what happened, but feel confident superintendent took decisive action.
Members of the Alexandria School Board are standing by embattled school superintendent Morton Sherman, despite calls for him to step down in the wake of a scathing auditor's report.
Thursday, March 15
Titans Salvage Tie Against Mount Vernon in Opener
TC in search of first Patriot District title since 2008.
Frustration could have gotten the best of the T.C. Williams boys’ soccer team. After a few missed goal-scoring opportunities and disagreements with officiating, the Titans trailed 1-0 late in their season-opening match at Mount Vernon. But rather than give in, TC found a way to put one in the net and salvage a tie against a team that reached the regional quarterfinals each of the last two seasons.
Alexandria Real Estate: Top Sales in January 2012
In January 2012, 108 Alexandria homes sold between $1,160,000-$82,900.
Alexandria Real Estate: Top Sales in January 2012
Calendar for March 15-21
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.
'Hairspray' Leads LTA to 17 WATCH Awards
The Little Theatre of Alexandria was the big winner at this year's Washington Area Community Theatre Honors Awards (WATCH), taking home 17 trophies at the March 11 ceremony at The Birchmere Music Hall in Alexandria.
Jazzercise Instructor Marks 25 Years
Twenty-five years ago, Whitney Houston’s song, "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)" was in the Top Ten List. That was also the same year that Mindy LaBruno, certified personal trainer, started her career as Jazzercise instructor.
A Mission of Mercy Helps Hundreds
More than 800 residents receive free dental services during two-day event.
The triage center at Saturday’s Mission of Mercy Dental health clinic resembled a modern-day MASH unit.
The March for Art
Target Gallery partners with March of Dimes for outreach and support.
March Art Reach is in full swing at the Target Gallery, and Friday, March 16 offers an opportunity to purchase panel works by local artists at steep discounts.
Lt. Col. Wayne A. Babb (ret)
Lt. Col. Wayne A. Babb, USMC (ret), died recently at his home in Alexandria after a courageous fight with terminal illnesses.
Taylor Run
Joy filled the air as the students of St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes brought to life "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," the musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice.
Salvation Army Wins 'Battle of the Bells'
Red Kettle volunteers win new van for local corps.
It was a hard fought fight but in the end, it was the Alexandria Corps of the Salvation Army that emerged triumphant in the “Battle of the Bells,” a competition among 11 Washington regional corps to log the most volunteer hours during the 2011 Red Kettle Campaign. The prize: A new van for the victor.
Seminary Valley
If it’s spring … the Austrian Exchange Program must be getting underway at T.C. Williams!
Deputy Retires from U.S. Army Reserve
William L. Morgan served for 31 years.
Alexandria Sheriff's Deputy William L. Morgan retired from the U.S. Army Reserve earlier this month following a 31-year career.
Betty M. Miller
Betty M. Miller, of Haymarket, Va., formerly of Alexandria, died on March 1, 2012.
Fairfax Honors Del Ray Resident
Willie Bailey recognized for 1,000 volunteer hours.
It was supposed to be a one-time event, a toy drive to help 50 struggling families in the Gum Springs community along the Route 1 corridor. But that was 15 years ago. Today, Capt. Willie Bailey's Firefighters and Friends annual toy drive serves more than 4,000 children in need throughout Northern Virginia.
Dorothy Moore Jones
Dorothy Moore Jones of Alexandria died on March 10, 2012.
Emily Marie (Anderson) Davis
Mrs. Emily Marie (Anderson) Davis, 69, beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend died on Thursday, March 8, 2012 at Alexandria Hospital from complications of lung cancer.
Letter: Elections for Family And Community
We need effective, sustainable solutions. When more than 100 million Americans are living in poverty, struggling to keep their homes, when millions of Americans are unemployed and others have given up, we need jobs.
Column: Session Ends with Last Minute State Pension Deal
Although we still did not pass a budget, the last week of session was an eventful week.
Firefighters Extinguish Fire in Basement of Home
At 8:21 am the Alexandria Fire Department, with the assistance of Arlington and Fairfax County Fire Departments, responded to a report of smoke filling a home in the 1200 block of Janneys Lane.
Volunteer For Cleanup Day
The Fairfax County Park Authority is looking for volunteers to wade into creeks and streams to remove litter and other debris on Watershed Clean-Up Day, Saturday, March 17. From 9 to 11:30 a.m. teams will descend into stream valleys near six parks to remove detritus deposited by litterbugs, floodwaters, and illegal dumping.
Celebrating Piano Restoration
In celebration of the restoration of its grand piano, Mount Vernon Unitarian Church will host a festive music and dance concert at 6 pm Sunday , March 18 at its chapel, 1909 Windmill Lane, Alexandria, just off Fort Hunt Rd.
Letter: A Tribute
To the Editor: I have had the honor of being involved in recreational basketball in the Mount Vernon area for more than a decade.
Business Networking
Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring St. Paddy’s Day Business Networking on Thursday, March 15, 5:30 to 7 p.m., hosted by ServiceMaster of Alexandria, 7551 Fordson Road, Alexandria.
Letter: From Taxation To Voter ID
To the Editor: In the March 1 Mount Vernon Gazette, Frank Medico, Jay McConville and I had our letters to the editor published discussing the legislative agenda of Del. Scott Surovell.
Letter: Tracking Connolly’s Votes
To the Editor: After reading the self proclaimed fiscal moderate Congressman Gerald E. Connolly’s commentary published in the March 8-14 Mount Vernon Gazette about selected votes regarding the unemployed, seniors and federal employees costs,
Letter: Planners vs. Searchers
The critical knowledge that defines a place like Old Town is so special that it cannot be found anywhere but in the minds and hearts of those who live there. Searching out diverse, non-city appointed, residents to be a part of the startup design team that imagines the first design framework is crucial to producing a viable and unique expression of place.
Letter: Housing in Beauregard
To the Editor: Good planning is one of the main themes of my campaign for city council, and one of the most important things a city council member can influence.
Letter: Restoring Trust In School System
Public education funding in Alexandria has long been understood sacrosanct. As a result, when ACPS has sought funding increases from City Council, we’ve acquiesced.
Letter: Density Dominoes
To the Editor: What I’ve learned from the Waterfront contretemps is our elected and appointed city officials are playing a game of density dominoes.
Letter: Maintain Vigilance
Jack Lichtenstein [Letter, “Matter of Humanity”] takes to task my critique of Del. David Englin’s use of “baby” to describe a fetus. He hopes that “no amount of social engineering by big government and its enthusiasts will cause us … to check our humanity at the door.”
Letter: Spring Cleaning In Alexandria
Spring begins on March 20 and many in Alexandria will find themselves in the yearly act of cleaning a house from top to bottom, a traditional act that helps to keep everyone accountable.
Letter: Transportation Commission’s Role?
Unfortunately, the March 7 monthly meeting of the obscure Alexandria Transportation Commission wasn’t covered by cable TV as is done for sessions of the City Council — but perhaps it should have been.
Letter: City’s Vision Is Practical
Mr. Robert Pringle [Letter, “Vision-based Planning”] recently responded to my March 7 letter. His comments show a very different view than mine. Addressing his concerns is appropriate.
Wednesday, March 14
Classified Advertising
Read the lastest Classified and Employment ads!
Virginia Officials Deliberately Moving Slowly on Health Care Exchange
If Supreme Court upholds health-care reform, governor would have to call special session.
Virginia has eight months to create a certification plan for how it plans to create a health-care exchange, a legal requirement of President Barack Obama’s Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
Week in Alexandria
The budget standoff in Richmond could have dramatic consequences in Alexandria, where every service from education services to transportation funding is on the line.
Business Matters
How far did the empire of Orange Julius reach? What’s the capital of Banana Republic? Is Aeropostale aerodynamic?
Column: “Early Results Show Stable Disease”
There’s five words e-mailed from my oncologist that I can live with (Duh!). Certainly better than the previous nine words e-mailed eight weeks ago regarding my then current CT Scan: “Scan results show progression. We’ll talk more on Friday.”
Dysfunctional Budgeting Prompts Crisis at Alexandria City Public Schools
Independent audit rips school system; vice mayor calls for superintendent to step down.
An independent auditor has concluded that the budget office at Alexandria City Public Schools suffers from a “dysfunctional environment," approving contracts that had not been budgeted and providing inaccurate information to School Board members.
Tuesday, March 13
Local Designers Selected to Make Over D.C. Design House
Annual event raises money for Children's National Medical Center.
Some of the Washington area's top interior designers are unleashing their creative talent all in the name of charity. Organizers of the 2012 Washington, D.C. Design House announced the designers who will make over the 2012 D.C. Design Home.
The Chateau in Oak Hollow
One of just four properties in Fairfax County listed at HomesDatabase.com for sale for more than $10 million, this home sits on five acres in Clifton, and is for sale for $12.5 million. The other three properties are in McLean.
Editorial: So Hard to Imagine?
Poor families face challenges that officials and many of the rest of us have trouble envisioning.
The Commonwealth of Virginia and even Northern Virginia includes many poor families and individuals. But officials seem to have trouble wrapping their brains around some of the difficulties this can cause.
Stakes Are High in Virginia Budget Standoff
Lawmakers flee Capitol, where partisan gridlock reigns.
The budget standoff in Richmond could have drastic consequences in Northern Virginia, where every service from education to transportation is on the line.
Monday, March 12
Calendar for March 8
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.
Auction To Benefit Elementary School
Stratford Landing hosts annual auction and ice cream social.
Stratford Landing Elementary School will host its annual Spring Fling Silent Auction and Ice Cream Social on Friday, March 23, from 6-9 p.m. at the school located at 8484 Riverside Road.
Director Maurice Hines Returns To the Scene
It isn’t often that an out-of-town director has the opportunity to return to a show in a regional theatre and see how it has grown, evolved, and progressed since opening night. But Maurice Hines, director and choreographer of MetroStage’s world premiere production of "Josephine Tonight" did just that recently. He returned to Alexandria with his associate director Mel Johnson Jr. to surprise the cast and see what his work looked like four weeks later. One of the exciting things about live theatre is that it is going to be slightly different every night. Actors can grow in their roles, further understand and develop their characters, and simply inhabit the stage with their fellow actors more comfortably over time.
Letter: Serving Constituents
I find it fascinating that Mr. H. Jay Spiegel appears to have just discovered that Del. Scott Surovell votes (gasp!) left-of-center in the House. Even more entertaining is the implication that, after winning the election with almost 60 percent of the vote, he pulled a Romney-like switcheroo on our “somewhat moderate politically” district.
Letter: Standing Up For What’s Right
The bills that didn't pass listed by H. Jay Spiegel ("Truly Representative?" March 1-7, 2012) made me proud to have a delegate who is brave enough to depart from the "mainstream" in Richmond.
Letter: MVHS Crew Tag Day a Success
The Mount Vernon High School Crew Team would like to thank the local community for their continued support to our athletic program
Letter: Legislation Does Hurt the Poor
In last week’s Gazette, Jay McConville objects that the front page story, "New Laws Attack Poor" (Feb. 16-22, 2012) is filled with the assertion that "legislation promoting good financial stewardship … is an attack on the poor."
Letter: Reasonable, Not Radical
In the March 1 edition of the Mount Vernon Gazette, Jay Speigel criticized Del. Scott Surovell's support for a Republican Delegate's legislation to automatically restore the voting rights of nonviolent ex-felons.
Night of the Ballyshaner’s Grand Marshal’s Ball
The Grand Marshal’s Ball is the annual Alexandria kick-off to the Irish-American Month.
Learning Chinese Culture
St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes Lower School celebrated the Chinese New Year on Feb. 3.
’Up Day’ at Dee Campbell Boathouse
It was "Up Day" at the Dee Campbell Boathouse on Saturday, Feb. 18 — sign-up day for new rowers on the T.C. Williams High School Crew Team, and clean-up day to make sure the dock is ready for the year.
Project Enlightenment Visits Old Town
Students from McLean High School in the Historical Reenactment Society, Project Enlightenment performed before audiences at the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Shop in Alexandria last month.
Letter: Plugged In And Pre School
Recently, I went to the Joint School Board/City Council Budget Work-session and I learned about a new adult education program called Plugged-In (www.pluggedinva.com).
Friday, March 9
Letter: Plugged In and Pre School
Recently, I went to the Joint School Board/City Council Budget Work-session and I learned about a new adult education program called Plugged-In (www.pluggedinva.com). It cites a recent report saying a General Education Degree (GED) is not enough and does not prepare students for the skills needed in today’s workforce.
Letter: City Cuts Affect Parade’s Future
I am writing to alert the citizens of Alexandria about some serious financial decisions made by our city council in the past few years that could impact the way that George Washington, St. Patrick’s Day, and our Scottish heritage is celebrated and remembered (or not) in Alexandria.
Letter: Where Are Students Going?
As a West Street resident and a parent, I am amazed that Alexandria’s leaders – both on the School Board and the City Council – are spending nearly $45 million and probably more to come in taxpayer money for a newer and bigger Jefferson-Houston School when it looks to be just as empty as before.
Letter: Vision-based Planning
Mr. Auld’s letter in your most recent edition (“What’s Best for All Residents”) is full of straw men. No one in CAAWP (or anywhere else that I’m aware of) is arguing for mindless “preservation” of the kind that he knocks down.
Letter: Losing Low-Cost Housing
Concerning the Council Notebook “Double Offense” and last week’s article on the destruction of public housing: I have been active fighting for affordable housing in Alexandria since 1985. During these 27 years every City Council member has been clear about their strong commitment to affordable housing and equally clear about their inability to do anything about market forces that are destroying affordable housing. This is the “big lie” that is constantly repeated while working people — particularly African Americans and immigrants — are forced from Alexandria.
Letter: City’s Quick Response
I would like to give the city a thumb's up for amazing service on a sidewalk repair.
Letter: Is Traffic Ellipse Necessary?
Does the proposed $30 million traffic ellipse improve traffic flow and pedestrian crossing at Seminary Road and North Beauregard? Should other safer, less costly options be explored?
Letter: Democrats for a Better Alexandria
A number of decisions by Alexandria City staff and City Council have raised questions about the City being responsive to citizen concerns and needs.
TC Musicians Score Big at States
The T.C. Williams Music program set what could be a performing arts record for the high school when 10 of its top musicians were selected to compete for chairs in the All-State Virginia Band and Orchestra. Statewide auditions were held Saturday, Feb. 25 at James Madison University.
Letter: Appreciating Support
On Feb. 8, the officers and members of the Alexandria Fire Department began an experience that we have not had to deal with for many years
On Parade
Spectators fill the streets for annual St. Patrick's Day parade.
Crowds filled the streets for the annual St. Patrick's Day parade in Alexandria.
Young Addresses WEBA Gathering
Focus is on West End development, issues.
City Manager and now West End resident Rashad Young was the featured guest at the West End Business Association's monthly Business Over Breakfast meeting March 7 at the Washington Suites Hotel.
George Mason Wins Healthy School Award
Marines make presentation.
A contingent of Marines from Quantico visited George Mason Elementary School March 1 to present the student body with the Marine Corps Marathon Healthy School Award for their record participation in the 2011 Healthy Kids Fun Run.
Rotary Hosts Study Exchange Team
South Korean group visits Alexandria.
The Rotary Club of Alexandria welcomed a Group Study Exchange (GSE) Team from Gwanjiu City, South Korea, to Northern Virginia March 6 as it hosted the five-person delegation at the organization's weekly luncheon prior to a private reception and performance of “Heaven Can Wait” at The Little Theatre of Alexandria.
Neighborhood: Taylor Run
Scores of Del Pepper's friends gathered at Mango Mike's last week to help start her re-election campaign.
Purl Jam
“Krunch Bunch” seniors knit hats for preschoolers.
A kaleidoscope of colors filled the room as 36 preschoolers from the Child and Family Network Center tried on hats knitted especially for them by the “Krunch Bunch,” a group of seniors from the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority.
Spell Check
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 new to the city or a long-time resident, the following is a primer that explains the ABC's of Alexandria.
‘Dragon’ Dix Returns to Alexandria
Civil War nurse hosts tea at Carlyle House.
Gregarious, sunny and 209 years old, Dorothea Dix, Superintendent of Army Nurses during the Civil War, charmed visitors to Carlyle House who attended a tea in her honor in the fall.
Thursday, March 8
Column: Look What She Saw—Sort Of
Well there’s five seconds that fellow super-market-shopper won’t have back anytime soon. The question, the curiosity is: will she have nightmares and/or live to regret staring at me so intently that I think I may have seen the whites of her eyes – and it wasn’t even remotely dark?
Sense and a Sense of Civility
Cotillion teaches etiquette and social savvy to children and teens.
Ankles demurely crossed, the 5th and 6th grade girls sit posture-perfect in their colorful party dresses, white-gloved hands resting in their laps as they await an offer to dance.
St. Patrick's Day Properly Celebrated
Each mid-March, St. Patrick is trampled by purveyors of green beer and boisterous singers of "Irish songs" actually written as show tunes by American composers like George M. Cohan.
The Virginia Grand Military Band Performs at Hayfield Secondary
The Virginia Grand Military Band has moved to the Rebecca S. Wilburn auditorium at Hayfield Secondary School in Alexandria. Members of the Virginia Grand Military Band are a veritable "who’s who" in the concert band world, and bring to each performance an artistry and professionalism which have earned them accolades and praise throughout the world.
Local Governments Enjoy Record Spending
Bucking national trend, local governments here expand while others are contracting.
As local governments across America are laying off firefighters and teachers, governments in Northern Virginia are experiencing record levels of spending and an all-time-high number of employees.
Business Matters
Facing his first difficult decision as the new president and CEO of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce, John Long is already in a no-win situation. Where to live?
Not-So-Super Tuesday
Turnout for Virginia's presidential preference primary was lowest in recent memory.
With two of the major candidates in the Republican presidential contest failing to qualify for the ballot in Virginia, Super Tuesday was anything but super.
How Would City Council Candidates Have Voted on the Waterfront Plan?
Candidates for office take sides in debate on controversial waterfront proposal.
The waterfront is no longer a partisan issue. As more candidates throw their hat into the ring to run in the election for Alexandria City Council, a broader field of possibilities is opening up to voters.
Democrats Crowd City Council Field
Twelve candidates have announced for six seats, and one more is likely to join.
As the campaign season heats up, the Democratic field is getting more crowded. Four new candidates gave their first pitch to members of the Alexandria Democratic Committee Monday night.
Wednesday, March 7
Five Ireton Seniors To Play College Sports
Five Bishop Ireton seniors — two football players and three girls’ soccer players — signed letters of intent to play at the collegiate level.
Inexperienced Titans Hope To Continue Program Growth
TC enters third season under head coach Mike Mulherin.
The Titans have aspirations of continuing their growth under third-year head coach Mike Mulherin. However, TC will have to do so with a green group after losing the majority of its primary contributors from 2011.
Saxon Football Players Make Collegiate Commitments
Harvey, Clemete set to take their game to the next level; underclass lineman Jack Howerton earns All-State recognition.
Two Langley High football players – defensive standout Marcus Harvey and two-way lineman Dylan Clemente - recently made commitments to play the sport at the collegiate level.
Indoor Track Season Wraps Up at State Meet
Local Northern Region athletes compete in Hampton.
A number of local athletes put together strong showings at last weekend’s Virginia State AAA Indoor Track and Field Championships, held Friday and Saturday (Feb. 24-25) at the Boo Williams Sportsplex in Hampton. On the boys’ side, Westfield High finished third overall and was the top finisher from out of the Northern Region. The Bulldogs finished with 27 team points. The team champion was Western Branch (48) of Chesapeake, a member of the Eastern Region. Finishing second was Grassfield (34 points) of Chesapeake.
Tuesday, March 6
Classified Advertising
See the lastest Employment, Home and Garden and classified ads!
Cleaning Up One’s Plate
Local nutrition experts encourage healthy eating during National Nutrition Month and always.
When it comes to healthy eating, Alexandria wellness educator Cheryl Mirabella encourages her clients to load up during meals, but she offers a caveat.
Health Services Coalition Receives $10,000 Grant
Funding will help provide specialty health care to low income residents.
Northern Virginia Health Services Coalition's (NOVAHSC) Specialty Access program received a $10,000 grant to help provide low-income, uninsured patients with access to specialty medical care through a regional network of providers.
Editorial: Reenacting a Dark History?
Turning back the clock in Richmond.
Who could have anticipated that our elected officials would take African-American History month and Women's History month so seriously that they would literally try to turn back the clock?
Monday, March 5
City Council Members Warned of Affliction and Loss in West End
A Proverb for the Beauregard small-area plan.
Yea, though members of the City Council walk through the valley of the shadow of Beauregard, they seem to fear no evil.
Friday, March 2
Column: Protecting Residents in Tax, Road Debates
Congress finally has acted to ensure payroll tax relief for 170 million individuals and families through the rest of 2012. This additional tax relief is critical for maintaining the momentum of the economic recovery, and Northern Virginians will realize an average savings of $2,000 per household.
Column: A Raw Deal for Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia is getting a raw deal from Governor McDonnell. While we need transportation investment to support this economic engine of the state, at least $1.5 billion in transportation funds are being diverted to wasteful and unnecessary projects in rural areas. Meanwhile, the state refuses to adequately fund Dulles Rail, leaving Northern Virginia taxpayers and toll payers to foot the lion's share of the bill.
Andrew Macdonald ‘Seriously Considering’ Independent Campaign for Mayor
Former Democratic elected official appears before Republicans to ask for support.
Former Democratic Vice Mayor Andrew Macdonald says he is “seriously considering” an independent campaign for mayor, and he’s asking Republicans for support.
Thursday, March 1
Nominees for 2012 Helen Hayes Awards
MetroStage, Signature, Synetic among nominees.
Nominees for the 2012 Helen Hayes Awards were announced Feb. 27 with Signature Theatre, Synetic Theatre and MetroStage among the 25 theatre companies nominated in 26 categories.
'Heaven Can Wait' at LTA
Joe Pendleton is in for the fight of his life — literally. A professional boxer and pilot, his soul is mistakenly “collected” from his body some 60 years too soon after a plane flight gone awry in the comedy “Heaven Can Wait,” now playing at The Little Theatre of Alexandria.
Life's a Beach at 'Dixie Swim Club"
Port City shines with new production.
They met long before the phrase “BFF” was part of the American lexicon, but for five college teammates, the comfort and frustrations of “best friends forever” are rays of sunshine in the Port City Playhouse production of “The Dixie Swim Club,” now playing at Alexandria's Lab Studio Theatre at Convergence.
Spotlighting Teen Dating Violence
The George Huguely trial in the death of Yeardley Love has captivated the attention not just of our region, but of the nation. Love was 22 and a student at the University of Virginia when she became a victim of teen dating violence. Appropriately, this February marked the annual Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. The continuing story of Love and Huguely’s relationship reminds us that we each have a role to play in ending teen dating abuse and domestic violence in our community; the consequences are too real to be ignored. But, there is hope as our community has already made impressive strides toward a future where our youth better understand how to create healthy relationships.
Developing Intergenerational Dialogue
Drama students from Yorktown High School interviewed senior Arlingtonians residing at the Goodwin House and Culpepper Gardens retirement communities on Monday, Feb. 25.
Yorktown Hosts Eighth Annual Row for Humanity
From 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25, the atrium on the third floor at Ballston Common Mall in Arlington was buzzing with action as six erg machines were almost constantly in motion.
Local Runner Raises Funds for Cancer Research
Abbe Steel to run in Boston Marathon.
Even with the increasingly difficult qualifying standards for the Boston Marathon, lifelong Arlington resident Abbe Burdetsky Steel is preparing to run the race as part of the 23rd annual Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge.
Tapping into the Beer Market
Great Lakes Brewery expands to Northern Virginia. <hd1>Great Lakes Brewery expands to Northern Virginia. <hd1>Great Lakes Brewery expands to Northern Virginia.
The Great Lakes Brewery of Cleveland, Ohio is set to enter the Northern Virginia market with an ambitious agenda of tap takeovers and samplings across the region. With a suite of gold medal awards in the lager, porter and ale categories, area beer aficionados can hardly wait for a chance to fill their glass.
State Senate Committee Kills Effort to Overturn King's Dominion Law
School boards were encouraged by support from governor, but couldn't win over Senate committee.
The Senate Committee on Education and Health voted today to kill an effort overturning the King's Dominion Law, which mandates that school divisions across Virginia begin classes after Labor Day.
Column: Black History Is American History
Nannie J. Lee Memorial Recreation Center celebrated along with other neighborhood centers, our collective American story with the annual "Black History is American History" program
Column: Keeping Focused on Economic Issues
As Black History Month comes to a close, I believe that we need to reflect on where we are as a Commonwealth and a nation. I am proud to share a slice of black history as the first African
Column: Inova Leverages Information Technology
Quick — can you name all the medications you’ve taken in the last six months? How many times a day did you take each medication? How many milligrams was each dose?
Free Tax Help for Qualifying Residents
The City of Alexandria is offering free tax preparation assistance to qualifying residents.
Playground Winners Announced
The Alexandria Childhood Obesity Action Network, Alexandria/Arlington Smart Beginnings, and ACTion Alexandria teamed up to launch the Project Play Spruce Up Grants Competition to help residents improve local playgrounds and ensure that every child in Alexandria has a quality place to play.
Guilty Plea to Defrauding School
Terence Wilson, 35, of Alexandria, pleaded guilty on Feb. 23 to stealing more than $250,000 from an Alexandria-based nursing school.
Police Investigate Assault
Alexandria Police are investigating a burglary and assault that occurred in the 1100 block of Archer Court.
Governments Across Virginia Hope to Kill Local Aid to the State Program
Jurisdictions hope to kill funding scheme created at height of recession.
In the darkest days of the global financial crisis, leaders in Richmond were willing to do almost anything to balance the budget.
Council Notebook
Yea, though members of the City Council walk through the valley of the shadow of Beauregard, they seem to fear no evil.
In Session
What happens if a jury finds a murderer guilty but comes to an impasse on sentencing?
Changes to Waterfront Zoning Put on Hold While Challenges Are Considered
As challenges to small-area plan multiply, upzoning has been put on hold.
Think the waterfront plan passed? Think again.