Thursday, April 30
APD Officer Michael Nugent to Receive Gold at Valor Awards
16 officers to be honored at the 29th annual Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Valor Awards.
It was a cold and icy February morning in 2014 when Alexandria police officer Michael Nugent responded to an emergency call on South Patrick Street.
Alexandria: 800 Volunteer To Fix Homes
More than 800 Rebuilding Together Alexandria volunteers spread out across the city providing free repairs and upgrades to 40 low-income homeowners during National Rebuilding Day on Saturday, April 25.
Alexandria People At Work: Robotic Camera Inspects Sewers
Finding roots, rats and clogs.
The large white van backs up to the upstream manhole in the alley at Jefferson and Payne. It will take Keith Kehter, about 10 minutes to set up the inspection site with bright orange cones, drag out the hose and cable and warm up the program on the computer.
$1,276,909 Raised by Spring2ACTion
Alexandria comes together for its 5th annual giving day.
Alexandria’s annual online giving day, Spring2ACTion, generated $1,276,909 for 129 Alexandria nonprofits in just 24 hours on April 22.
Mount Vernon: Festive Start to Fort Hunt Fast Pitch Season
Fort Hunt Softball held its Opening Day celebration on Sunday, April 12, at the Walt Whitman softball complex. Approximately 400 people including players, family members and volunteers attended. The party started off with a picnic, games and dancing.
Firefighter McClain's Life of Service
Firefighter McClain retires after 34 years.
One of Alexandria’s longest serving firefighters has stowed his equipment for the last time. As of April 29, Capt. Thurston McClain officially said goodbye to emergency calls and 24-hour shifts when he retired after serving 34 years with the Alexandria Fire Department.
Letter: Value of Public Servants
Letter to the Editor
From the beginning, residents of Old Town have only wanted the very best for the Old and Historic District, starting with the group of women who spearheaded the drive that made us the third nationally designated Historic District in the country.
Letter: Massive Debt
Letter to the Editor
This letter was triggered when I heard the three mayor candidates tell an audience last Thursday, which included me, why they should be mayor.
Letter: Value of Sweet Briar
Letter to the Editor
In a world that is poised to degrade distinction as discrimination, well-done single sex education is a gem that must not be tossed away.
Letter: Different Perspective
Letter to the Editor
I’ve been observing and testifying at City Council meetings since James Moran was mayor.
Letter: Protect Old Town’s Historic Nature
Letter to the Editor
The other day, my good friend Poul Hertel was reading a speech that George Washington gave to a very skeptical House of Representatives. Instead of getting angry (as had been expected), Mr. Washington called on everyone to "Unite our efforts to improve our immense advantage."
Letter: Squelching Comments
Letter to the Editor
The Potomac Yard property is underutilized and I support efforts to locate a metro rail station at Potomac Yard.
Letter: Cartoon Not Funny
Letter to the Editor
As program chairman of Alexandria’s Sesquicentennial Commemoration of the Civil War, I have planned programs for the last two years to illuminate truths about various aspects of the War, including its causes.
Letter: A Different Vision for City
Letter to the Editor
I’m not going to tell you which mayoral candidate to vote for on June 9, but I am going to tell you which two Democrats you shouldn’t vote for and why.
Letter: Too Much Spending
Letter to the Editor
Spending taxpayer money seems to be the mantra of this mayor and his compliant council.
Letter: Focus on Middle Schools
Letter to the Editor
The following is an open letter to the mayor, City Council and School Board.
Letter: ‘Simply Can’t Have It All’
Letter to the Editor
Several neighborhood associations hosted the first Mayoral debate in the MacArthur School cafeteria last Thursday, April 23. As a relatively new Alexandria resident and voter, it was a good opportunity for me to learn about old and new city issues as well as to observe the candidates, and watch them interact.
Column: Animeals on Wheels
Providing assistance to senior pet owners.
It’s well known that pets can play a significant role in the quality of a senior’s life by providing personal companionship.
Summer Sailing Camp: Outside, Hands-On, Empowering
Amy Zang has just returned from a week sailing the British Virgin Isles with nine members of her extended family ranging from her 78-year-old, legally-blind father to her brother's 4- and 6-year old children.
Diverse Camps Offer Summer Fun
Northern Virginia has scores of local camps for summer learning and fun.
Scores of local camps in Northern Virginia that offer many opportunities for summer fun and learning. Here is a sampling of diverse camps that range from art to theater to field trips to swimming, tennis and music. There's even a camp for aspiring musicians who want to form a band.
Column: Celebrating Mom and Dad Without Selling Either Short
Commentary
In today’s marketing environment, it seems as though one gender cannot make progress without disparaging another.
Summer Fun for Adults
The region offers a wide range of programs for adults.
Summer fun is no longer reserved for children. Whether one’s interests lie in exploring nature and hiking in the woods or immersed in history, art and literature on a university campus, the region abounds with warm weather opportunities.
West Potomac Rides Seven-Game Win Streak to First Place
Wolverines win 9 of 11 prior to Tuesday’s loss to Annandale.
Leading off the bottom of the sixth inning, West Potomac right fielder Rocky Iboleon got the fastball he wanted and drove it to deep left.
T.C. Crew Wins Big at Charlie Butt Regatta
Boys’, girls’ 1V boats capture first, team wins nine races.
The T.C. Williams crew team brought its power to the Georgetown waterfront on April 25 to compete at the Charlie Butt Regatta. Racing against top boats from the region, the TC team won nine races, including top honors for the girls’ and boys’ first varsity boats.
Alexandria: Mistrial and Missed Trial
Just down the hall from each other, there were major developments in two Alexandria murder trials on April 23.
Alexandria: Mayoral Standoff
First debate in race for mayor focuses on failing infrastructure.
Differences between incumbent Mayor William Euille, current Vice Mayor Allison Silberberg, and former Mayor Kerry Donley emerged during a debate as the three took turns directing blame for Alexandria’s current problems on each of the other two during the first mayoral debate. The debate, held in Douglas MacArthur Elementary School on April 23, primarily focused around issues of parking and city infrastructure.The shifting blame became most apparent during the candidates’ discussions on BRAC-133.
Alexandria: Add/Delete Budget Drama
Council members spar over last minute additions.
A preliminary discussion of the City Council’s Add/Deletes from the budget led to a heated exchange between council members during their April 28 meeting.
Got Food?
Stamp Out Hunger food drive set for May 9.
The 2015 Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, sponsored by the National Association of Letter Carriers and the U.S. Postal Service, will take place Saturday, May 9 throughout the City of Alexandria.
Wednesday, April 29
Alexandria/Mount Vernon Weekend Fun: May 1-3
Fun events in Alexandria and Mt. Vernon for the weekend of May 1-3.
How to Prepare for Summer Camp Away
Many emotions arise when a child leaves for camp.
Julie Kaminski remembers the language from her desperate letters to her parents: “I love you. I want to come home now!” She recalls penning a dramatic plea to be rescued from residential summer camp more than 40 years ago. Today, Kaminski is preparing for her daughter's first camp experience away from home this summer.
Congressional Schools of Virginia is Celebrating 75 Years
The Congressional Schools of Virginia in Falls Church marked its 75th anniversary with a weekend-long celebration on April 24 and 25, with events attended by hundreds of students, staff, alumni and friends of the school.
Camps and Schools Notes
The Fairfax Falcons Paralympic Sports team, a Fairfax County Neighborhood and Recreation Services Therapeutic Recreation program, is recruiting new players.
Column: Deep Space Mind
Commentary
A few years back (OKAY, more than a few years back; I’ll blame the cancer for my time lapse), there was a spin-off from the original Star Trek: Star Trek: The Next Generation captained by Jean-Luc Picard (a.k.a. Patrick Stewart) which itself spawned two other spin-offs: Star Trek Voyager and Deep Space Nine (commanded by Avery Brooks, a.k.a. Captain Sisko).
Alexandria Mayoral Standoff
First debate in race for mayor focuses on failing infrastructure.
Differences between incumbent Mayor William Euille, current Vice Mayor Allison Silberberg, and former Mayor Kerry Donley emerged during a debate as the three took turns directing blame for Alexandria’s current problems on each of the other two during the first mayoral debate.
LTA Presents 'The Odd Couple'
Neil Simon comedy has been reinvented as ladies take over roles of Unger and Madison.
The Little Theatre of Alexandria is presenting "The Odd Couple" (The Female Version) from now through May 16. Unger and Madison are at it again — Florence Unger and Olive Madison, that is — in Neil Simon’s comic classic. The comedy has been reinvented from a different perspective as the women take over the roles of the mismatched couple to give this well-known play a whole new life.
Port City Playhouse Presents ‘Stick Fly’
Port City Playhouse in Alexandria will present "Stick Fly," Lydia R. Diamond’s wry but affectionate look at the experiences of upper-income African-Americans, from May 1 through May 16.
Tuesday, April 28
Editorial: Fostering Connections, Faltering
Why are federal dollars acceptable for roads, but not for helping foster children?
While there is plenty of competition for the title “most vulnerable,” foster children are certainly among them.
Monday, April 27
Class of 2015: Arlington Has New Tree Stewards
Tree Stewards volunteer to keep communities green.
Tree Stewards of Arlington and Alexandria graduated a class of 20 new Tree Stewards on April 14.
Friday, April 24
Not Enough Progress Made on Affordable Housing in Alexandria
Alexandria Needs Assessment finds affordable housing severely lacking.
The 2010 City Council Strategic Plan laid out seven main goals for the city’s long-term development. Goal number one was to “achieve a net increase in the number of dedicated affordable rental and ownership units in the city by 2015.”
Thursday, April 23
Renovating the Historic House
Expert Murray Bonnitt says be prepared for extra and unexpected delays and expenses when renovating a historic property.
Renovating a historic home is a labor of love and can be a test of real patience. Do you think renovating your own modern home is a challenge? Try one from the 19th century. With so many homes in the region from the 18th, 19th, and early 20th century, a significant commitment to maintaining them comes with a desire to make them compatible for our time.
Transformation: from Swamp to Gorgeous Design
"In 1995 when I first started working on this yard, it was basically a swamp with dense trees growing straight up because they had nowhere to go."
Historic Home on the Market
18th-Century Shreve House for sale.
After stepping through the handmade, mahogany front door of a home nestled in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, visitors might feel as though they’d been transported back to the late 1700s, the period during which this Virginia home was built.
Alexandria Real Estate Agent Gets Top Honor
Allison Goodhart selected as one of REALTOR Magazine’s ‘30 under 30’ for 2015.
A local, young professional has joined ranks of the real estate elite. Allison Goodhart of The Goodhart Group at McEnearney Associates, Inc. in Alexandria was selected as one of REALTOR Magazine’s “30 under 30” for 2015. Chosen from a pool of close to 400 nominees from around the country, the finalists were judged on community service, work ethic and commitment to their clients.
Outlook Optimistic for Local 2015 Real Estate Market
After what seemed to be an endless winter, spring has finally come calling, signaling the start of the year’s first real estate high season. Homes trade hands all year long, but spring is often for buyers, seller, agents, brokers and lenders like those weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas; buyers at full speed searching out the best bargains and sellers looking to move their wares without having to resort to price-slashing sales tactics.
Editorial: Connection Papers Win Awards
Variety of coverage honored at annual Virginia Press Association conference.
On Saturday, April 18, a group of journalists from the Connection Newspapers traveled to Roanoke for the annual Virginia Press Association event to collect awards for business reporting, government writing, writing about health, science and the environment, feature writing, sports writing, column writing, obituaries, cartoons, entertainment pages and writing, public safety writing, editorial pages and writing, page design, informational graphics and more.
Wednesday, April 22
Community Rallies Behind Fire Victims
After a Mount Vernon High School student and family lost their home in a fire on April 14, principal Nardos King sent an email the following Friday morning to school staff and the Mount Vernon “Keep In Touch” contact list asking for donations to help the family start over.
T.C. Williams Crew Excels at Smokey Jacobs Regatta
Titans finish first in six races, capture second place in four others.
The T.C. Williams boys’ and girls’ crew teams reunited in Occoquan on April 18 to take on tough competitors in the Smokey Jacobs Regatta.
Obituary: Sam Hinson
Obituary
Samuel Laing Hinson, Jr., Colonel, USAF (ret), died April 11, 2015. Born Sept. 1, 1919, he was raised in Albany, Ga., the youngest of seven children.
Alexandria: Battle of Robinson Terminal South Ends
Council approval yields compromises amidst unyielding opposition.
In a 5-1 vote, the City Council approved EYA’s redevelopment of Robinson Terminal South. In many ways, the City Council public hearing on April 18 was largely a repeat of the April 9 Planning Commission and a number of committee hearings before that. Many of the same voices from the audience voiced the same concerns or showed the same support.
Letter: Police Oversight Board Needed
Letter to the Editor
As a lifetime resident of Mt. Vernon District, and a Mt. Vernon appointee to the Fairfax County Human Services Council (HSC), I have had the honor and pleasure of meeting and volunteering on behalf of Mt. Vernon and Fairfax County residents.
Alexandria: Plaque Recalls Education Before Desegregation
Alumni of Parker-Gray High School gather.
Alumni and city officials gathered on April 16 for the unveiling of a plaque outside the Alexandria City Public Schools’ Central Office commemorating Parker-Gray High School.
Obituary: Peter Smolka
Obituary
Peter Henry Smolka, of Alexandria, was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia in 1919.
Lyles Crouch Students Remember Abraham Lincoln
On the 150th anniversary of the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, the students in the Lyles-Crouch After School Theater program presented an original play “Abraham Lincoln: And Now He Belongs to the Ages.”
Obituary: Thomas Richard Downs
Obituary
Commander Tom R. Downs, USN, Ret., 91, a 57-year resident of Alexandria, who was the first Trustee Emeritus of the Alexandria Symphony, dating from the early 1990s, died on Friday, Jan. 2, 2015. A burial service with full military honors will be held Friday, May 8, 9 a.m. at Old Post Chapel, Fort Myers.
Obituary: Boyakin Old Bird
Obituary
Boyakin Old Bird died at his home at Westminster Canterbury of the Shenandoah Valley, Winchester, Va., on April 17, 2015.
Letter: Waterfront: Ample Public Input
Letter to the Editor
Kathryn Papp’s April 16 letter to the editor “No Longer 2006” perpetuates many incorrect and misleading statements about the city’s Waterfront Small Area Plan.
Letter: Rationale of ‘Preferred Site?’
Letter to the Editor
The City of Alexandria is going to choose its newest "potential income generator," the Potomac Yard Metro Station. Just two choices merit consideration if the city chooses to continue with the Metro Station proposal.
People At Work: Spring Warms into Hot Market
It is spring and the real estate market is hot. Mary Moran puts her access card in the lock box, uses her own personal code, opens the front door and walks into the hallway. According to Mary Moran, Realtor for Long & Foster, in the spring the market picks up because of weather. Houses look better, snow is gone and they are easier to show.
Letter: Greatest Show On Earth
Letter to the Editor
It's finally here — the augur of the rites of spring — the greatest show on earth, well no, not the circus, well maybe, but I was thinking of the final budget vote due this week.
Letter: Which Yesterday?
Letter to the Editor
On Saturday, April 18, Mayor Euille voiced his support for the plans offered by EYA at the Robinson Terminal South site along the waterfront.
Letter: A Fresh Approach
Letter to the Editor
On Tuesday, June 9, citizens will have the opportunity to elect the Democratic Party’s candidate to be the next Mayor of Alexandria. There are three choices: incumbent Mayor Bill Euille, Former Mayor Kerry Donley, and Vice-Mayor Allison Silberberg.
Column: Legislature Upholds Governor’s Vetoes
Commentary
Last week, members of the General Assembly returned to Richmond for the 2015 veto session — the annual wrap-up that concludes our legislative cycle. We voted on the governor’s vetoes and amendments to bills that were passed in January and February. We made progress in many ways — but I believe we missed opportunities to strengthen our ethics laws, protect Virginians’ privacy, and at long last close the health care coverage gap.
Cartoon: Civil War Reenactment
Civil War Reenactment
Mount Vernon: Martin, Smith Lead Majors to Comeback Win over Titans
Mount Vernon boys’ lacrosse improves to 5-1, TC falls to 3-7.
The Mount Vernon boys' lacrosse team overcame a 7-1 deficit to beat T.C. Williams 12-11.
Thursday, April 16
Alexandria Home Sales: March, 2015
In March, 2015, 200 Alexandria homes sold between $3,600,000-$98,700.
Alexandria Home Sales: March, 2015
Alexandria/Mount Vernon Weekend Fun: April 17-19
Weekend events in Alexandria and Mount Vernon April 17-19
Citizens Divided over Development’s Impact
While earlier meetings on the Robinson Terminal South Development tended to primarily pit local citizens against city staff and representatives from EYA, the developer, the proposal of four special use permits for the development drew a mix of reactions at the April 9 Planning Commission Special Public Hearing. After a presentation explaining the changes made to the site, the public responded with some in favor of the proposed buildings, some opposed, and many expressing opinions somewhere in between. Following the public discussion, the Planning Commission ultimately voted unanimously to approve the special use permits for the site.
Businesses Join Local Nonprofits for 24-Hour Charity Drive
Spring2ACTion emphasizes off-line community building.
Five years ago, ACT for Alexandria helped raise $100,000 for local charities at its first annual Spring2ACTion event. Last year, the organization raised over $1 million for 121 local nonprofits. At this year’s city-wide event on April 22, ACT for Alexandria’s Chief Program Officer Brandi Yee says the goal is to exceed 10,000 donors. Last year, the program had 7,516 total donors to the event, but this year Yee hopes a more public presence and greater involvement in the community can help bolster that number.
Alexandria: Eisenhower Ave. Field Fails as TC Stadium Alternative
Site on Eisenhower Avenue can’t match TC Stadium
Following suggestions expressed at public hearings that a new AlexRenew Field on Eisenhower Avenue be developed as a substitute for the lights and expansion at T.C. Williams’ High School’s Parker-Gray Memorial Stadium, Alexandria city staff analyzed the suggestion and reported back to City Council with a resounding no.
City Hall Briefs: April 15
In his State of the City address on April 14, Mayor William Euille reflected on recent Potomac Yard and waterfront development milestones.
People at Work: Mind the Mat
Laugh, dance and sweat—yoga combines it all.
The door opens and a crowd streams out the door clutching mats as Pilates Boot Camp is over. Smiles line the lobby waiting to sign in for the next class. Katie walks to the desk and stops to say hello. Paige Lichens, yoga instructor at Mind the Mat in Del Rey says, "Her husband just started."
Alexandria: Bishop Ireton Girls’ Lax Throttled by Top-Ranked McDonogh
Cardinals suffer first loss, remain focused on championships.
The Bishop Ireton girls’ lacrosse team is still considered one of the best in the nation and the Cardinals’ goals remain intact. But on Saturday afternoon in Owings Mills, Md., the defending WCAC and VISAA state champions were reminded that they can still end up on the wrong end of a blowout.
Titan Girls Sweep Noxontown No. 3 Regatta
TC boats win every race, retain Ward Wallace Cup
The T.C. Williams girls’ crew team put in a virtuoso performance, winning every race in which they participated, in the Noxontown No. 3 Regatta in Middletown, Del., on April 11. Winning boats included the girls’ first 8, the girls’ second 8, the girls’ lightweight 8, the girls’ freshman 8, the girls’ third 8, and the girls’ fifth 8. The TC boys spent their Saturday competing in a scrimmage against Westfield and Washington-Lee High School in Bull Run.
Honoring King through Service
Staff and students from two Alexandria City public schools gave up their time on Jan. 19 to give back to their communities in honor of Martin Luther King Day.
Cat in the Hat Encourages Reading in Alexandria
A life-size Cat in the Hat visited elementary schools across Alexandria City public Schools last month for read Across America Day.
Wednesday, April 15
Alexandria Students Help Replenish Food Pantry
The students of Grace Episcopal School in Alexandria helped feed those in need and the hungry in Alexandria by creating a gigantic, canned and boxed-food “Bountiful Basket” bunny on March 31.
First Family Visits Alexandria on Easter
First Family worships at Alfred Street Baptist Church.
Members of Alfred Street Baptist Church received an unexpected visit from the First Family at the 10:30 a.m. Easter Resurrection service.
Letter: Decision Now Rests with Council
Letter to the Editor
If there was ever an occasion to disband a City Commission and reappoint a new one, it occurred last Thursday, after the Planning Commission’s consideration of the Robinson Terminal South development.
Letter: A Positive Campaign
Letter to the Editor
I believe that electing Allison Silberberg as the next mayor of Alexandria is the most reasonable, respectful, and logical choice that an intelligent and informed voter can make. We get the government that we deserve.
Letter: Go to the Theatre
Letter to the Editor
I recently performed at Bishop Ireton High School in the musical, "The Drowsy Chaperone."
Letter: No Reason To Change
Letter to the Editor
What an interesting election our local race is shaping up to be.
Letter: City Hall Not for Sale
Letter to the Editor
There is no plan to sell, privatize, redevelop or otherwise dispose of Alexandria’s City Hall.
Celebrating National Library Week
The congregation of Trinity United Methodist Church gathered in the churchyard after services on Sunday morning, April 12, for the grand opening of A Free Little Library.
Alexandria: Emma's Espresso & Wine Bar Opens
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee drifted through the breeze outside of the newly opened Emma’s Espresso & Wine Bar on Saturday morning, April 11.
Intergenerational Volunteering in Alexandria
The community room at the Annie B. Rose House was a buzz of activity as students from Burgundy Farm Country Day School joined senior residents to assemble emergency go-kits in January.
Alexandria: Philanthropy Summit to Honor Local Leaders
U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-8), for decades known for his charitable works throughout the region, will keynote the 17th annual Business Philanthropy Summit honoring Alexandria’s top leaders for their service to the community. Sponsored by Volunteer Alexandria, the event will be held May 6 at the First Baptist Church of Alexandria.
Moving for Academic Excellence
Researchers say frequent physical activity can lead to success in school.
Inside an elementary school classroom in Bethesda, Md., a class of third grade students is divided into small groups and given a task: to cross a desert using a limited supply of tools that often include a jump rope, a foam noodle or a scooter. Their mission is to devise a plan to cross the desert without touching the sand.
Alexandria: Annual Spring Clean-Up is on April 18
The city's annual Spring Clean-Up program will begin Saturday, April 18.
TranZitionMe Health & Fitness Opens in Alexandria
The yoga studio at TranZitionMe Health & Fitness held its grand opening on Sunday, April 12 at 2815 Duke St.
Column: A Rebuilding Block Party
Commentary
Spring is here so it’s time to start having some block parties. That’s what we plan on doing during National Rebuilding Day on April 25 when 10,000 volunteers nationwide will be sprucing up homes and communities.
Mentor of the Month: Jacqueline Walker
Jacqueline “Jacque” Walker and Danny participate in the Wright to Read mentoring program. Here are their views on mentoring:
History Lesson: Four Alexandrians Died in Pursuit of John Wilkes Booth
April 1865 was one of the most eventful months in the history of our nation.
Column: Seeking Economic Equality for Women
Commentary
I have been surrounded by strong women all of my life. My grandmother was a suffragette, economics professor, labor leader, and advocate for most of her 98 years.
Tuesday, April 14
Northern Virginia's New Animal Hospital
Dr. Dana Carr (left) and Dr. Adrienne Hergen, pictured with pups Lola and Widgit, are the veterinarians at the newly opened Shirlington Animal Hospital located near the Shirlington Dog Park.
Holocaust Remembrance Day in Fairfax County
"One of the most important things we do."
Holocaust survivor Michel Margosis spoke before the Board of Supervisors, Tuesday, April 7, when the Board of Supervisors made a proclamation declaring April 16 as Holocaust Remembrance Day in Fairfax County.
Monday, April 13
Alexandria: Old Town Homes Open for Garden Week April 18
On April 18th, owners of six of Old Town Alexandria's finest private homes and gardens will open their doors to the public, as part of the 82nd Historic Garden Week, the oldest and largest house and garden tour in the nation.
Thursday, April 9
Alexandria/Mount Vernon Weekend Fun: April 10-12
Entertainment
Alexandria/Mount Vernon Weekend Fun: April 10-12
St. Stephen's & St. Agnes Girls' Lax Defeats Hutchinson School
Senior midfielder Ellie Majure and the St. Stephen's & St. Agnes girls' lacrosse team defeated Hutchinson School
Titan Girls’ Crew Dominates at Noxontown No. 2 Regatta
T.C. Williams boat beats national champion.
The T.C. Williams girls’ crew team fought off challenges from a field of tough competitors, as well as high winds, to dominate the second Noxontown Regatta in Middletown, Del., on April 4. The Titan girls’ lightweight 8’s victory against three-time national champion Holy Spirit was just one of many outstanding performances for the day. The Titan boys’ crew team took a break for the weekend to recharge for next week’s competition at the Bull Run Marina.
D.C. Design House
McLean showcase home opens to the public April 12.
Local interior design enthusiasts will have an opportunity to tour a much-anticipated unveiling this weekend when the 2015 Design House opens in McLean on Sunday, April 12 at noon, with ticket sales benefiting the Children’s National Health System.
Alexandria Student Receives Top Scholarship
Scholarship Fund of Alexandria's Executive Director Beth Lovain presented SFA's largest 2015 award during a surprise classroom visit at T.C. Williams High School Monday, April 6.
Alexandria: Notice of Intent on Waterfront Planning
A three-year legal battle between three Old Town residents and the City of Alexandria reached another milestone when, on March 27, the Virginia Supreme Court upheld the Alexandria Circuit Court’s dismissal of a lawsuit challenging the city’s Waterfront Plan zoning.
Alexandria: Dead Body Found
The Alexandria Police Department is conducting an investigation into the death of a 21-year-old male in the 5800 block of Quantrell Avenue.
Letter: ASF: Worthy Of Support
Letter to the Editor
The director of development for the Alexandria Seaport Foundation’s letter to the editor in the March 26 issue of the Gazette Packet advised us of the relocation of the ASF from the Robinson Terminal warehouse to the “little red-roofed building” floating at the foot of Queen Street.
In the Kitchen: Christophe Poteaux of Bastille, Old Town
Ingredients are important to the French.
A bucket of 5-inch long pod-shaped razor clams from Virginia Beach sits on the counter ready for the lunch special at Bastille.
Alexandria: Living Legends Gather for 8th Annual Reception
More than 200 people gathered for the 8th Annual Meet the Legends reception on March 19 at the Patent & Trademark Office Madison Building.
Wednesday, April 8
Letter: Fund Law Library
Letter to the Editor
The following open letter was addressed to Mayor William D. Euille.
Letter: An Idea To Gnaw On
Letter to the Editor
I speak for the neglected and now about- to- be displaced beavers of the George Washington Parkway.
Alexandria: Planning Comission is Considering Reducing Parking Options
Planning Commission updates policy on residential parking spaces.
A proposed text amendment to the Alexandria Parking Standards will decrease the amount of parking spaces residential property developers will be required to provide.
People at Work: Unwined
A world-wide perspective.
"No this isn’t really a brie; it looks like it but is not the same texturally. It is made by a Vermont creamery, Jersey cow milk." Vanessa Moore, proprietor of Unwined in the Bradlee Shopping Center added, "the rind is wrapped in tree bark but it's runny inside. You just scoop it out. It is so good." Marion Brady is looking for an Easter gift for dinner and says she doesn't know all of these cheeses and doesn't want something too strong. she knows she can always get something special here.
Letter: Fiduciary Responsibility
Letter to the Editor
Thanks to Vice-Mayor Allison Silberberg for speaking out against the outrageous proposal of selling City Hall [“Selling Alexandria’s City Hall,” Gazette Packet, April 2].
Letter: Pot of Gold?
Letter to the Editor
When I opened my April 1 edition of the Gazette Packet and read the article entitled “Selling Alexandria’s City Hall,” I assumed that the newspaper was paying homage to April Fool’s Day. Reading on, I found that the article was chronicling a real City Council debate — one held on March 17.
Commentary: ‘All Clear’ Given To For Sale Signs
Commentary
Who would have thought that a single individual taking a stand for the First Amendment would prompt Alexandria to remove a 50-year old ordinance from the books?
Letter: Prioritizing Improvements
Letter to the Editor
My name is Paul Krizek, and I am running for delegate in Virginia’s 44th District.
Vander Zee Reception Offers a Breath of Spring
Art reception celebrates end of winter.
When Nancy Ziegler’s husband died in 2006, a friend gave her a gift certificate to be used at The Art League. It was there that she discovered her artistic talents and has been a flourishing artist ever since.
Editorial: A Big Election Year in Virginia
Register, research, vote. And vote again.
Every year is an election year in Virginia. Here are a few examples that demonstrate that while elections are ubiquitous in Virginia, they are neither simple nor unimportant. Wade in, a lot depends on figuring this out and voting. This is not intended to be a comprehensive list of candidates.
More Than 200 Attend First Fairfax County Budget Hearing
Schools, libraries, economic development authorites and others seek more funding while tax-hawks call for reductions.
More than 200 people packed the Fairfax County Government auditorium Tuesday, April 7, and 60 speakers were scheduled to testify before the Board of Supervisors on the advertised budget. The hearing began with a presentation by School Board Chairman Tamara Derenak Kaufax. Members of the Fairfax County School Board sat in the front row, gave a standing ovation, and remained standing as Kaufax finished her testimony to begin the budget hearings.
Celebrating ‘March for Meals’
Senior Services of Alexandria and local elected officials, schools, and community volunteers served as March for Meals champions.
Column: City, Shelter Working Together
Commentary
The animals at Alexandria’s Vola Lawson Animal Shelter are cozier than ever these days, thanks to a new state-of-the-art heating system recently installed.
Cartoon: Impending Doom
“With the extended pay hours, it was felt a greater sense of impending doom would yield better compliance.”
Column: The Fact Is Not Yet The Matter
I don’t know which is worse: the extra-special, extra-expensive, dental cleaning (the kind that requires Novocain and involves the actual dentist, not merely the hygienist) that I have scheduled for April 8th – or my next hopefully-not-do-or-die CT Scan, moved up a month from my usual three-month interval because of a suspicious formation seen on my most recent scan back in mid-February.
Alexandria's Living Dead: Actors Pose as Famous Dead at Ivy Hill
Reenactors give visitors first-person biographies of the dead at Ivy Hill Cemetery.
Like any good host, many of Ivy Hill Cemetery’s permanent residents greeted visitors at the front gate. Despite many being deceased for well over a century, on April 4, the tenants were brought to life by costumed reenactors who guided visitors on tours of the cemetery.
Living Legend, Alice P. Morgan: A Lifetime of Getting People Involved
Never too young or too old to volunteer.
Suppose you must select one word to describe 2015 Living Legend Alice P. Morgan. There are many choices: groundbreaker, activist, and nurturer come quickly to mind. But perhaps the most all-encompassing is inclusive. Morgan is about including people. For example, when Morgan chaired Alexandria’s annual Martin Luther King Day celebrations, she found a way to include anyone who showed an interest, even children.
Friday, April 3
Alexandria: Titans Seize the Day at St. Andrew’s
T.C. crew finishes first or second in six races.
The T.C. Williams crew team braved wintery conditions on Saturday, March 28 to compete in its first away race of the spring 2015 rowing season – the Noxontown Regatta, which was held at St. Andrew's School in Middletown, Del.
Wonder Women: Salute to Women Awards Honors 11
Salute to Women Awards honors 11.
T.C. Williams High School principal Suzanne Maxey was one of 11 women, including three from the Alexandria City Public School system, honored March 26 at the 35th annual Salute to Women Awards.
Thursday, April 2
Alexandria: People vs Parks on Potomac Yard Impact
Draft Environmental Impact Statement details Potomac Yard Metro impact on parks and neighbors
The Potomac Yard Metro plan moves forward with the release of a draft Environmental Impact Statement developed by the City of Alexandria alongside the Federal Transit Administration and the National Park Service.
Wednesday, April 1
Selling Alexandria's City Hall
A costly repair bill for City Hall creates discussion of potential public/private partnership.
Facing a $53 million heating ventilation and air conditioning price tag for City Hall, some on the City Council have begun questioning the wisdom of continuing to operate in City Hall. At a City Council Work Session on March 17, discussion became heated after Mayor William Euille said he had his own ideas for the future of the building and referred to the City Hall property as “a pot of gold.”
Alexandria: Compromise on Waterfront Barging
After a long tug-of-war between local residents and waterfront property developer EYA, acting City Manager Mark Jinks announced an agreement with EYA to use barging instead of trucking to transport materials to and from the South Robinson Terminal development.
Some Gave All: Police Memorial in Alexandria Dedicated to Fallen Officers
Police memorial dedicated to fallen officers.
Judy Birney was just 12 years old when her father, youth detective Conrad Birney, was killed responding to a bank robbery in 1972. She went on to follow in her father’s footsteps, serving as an Alexandria police officer until 1999. On March 28, she joined more than 350 people for the dedication of the Alexandria Fallen Officers Memorial honoring the sacrifice of her father and 17 others who died in the line of duty.
Obituary: ‘The Original Ballyshaner,’ Judge O'Flaherty
Judge Daniel O’Flaherty dies at 89.
To anyone appearing in his courtroom, his name invoked fear. But those who knew Judge Daniel O’Flaherty, knew him as a kind and quiet man, a proud Irishman devoted to his family and the City of Alexandria.
Maestro’s Musings: ‘Dare to Think Heroically’ Opening Night
The Alexandria Symphony Orchestra will perform a pair of concerts titled "Dare to Think Heroically" on Saturday, April 11 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, April 12 at 3 p.m. at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 4915 E Campus Dr. This is the fourth concert program in a season-long celebration of the theme "Dare To..."
Preview: MetroStage Presents ‘The Island’
Play depicts human dignity and justice during the 1970s Apartheid.
As part of the 30th anniversary season, MetroStage in Alexandria is staging "The Island" now through April 26. The highly charged two-person play is set on Robben Island, South Africa, and depicts the plight of two political prisoners, John and Winston, as they perform labor by day and rehearse Sophocles’ "Antigone" by night.
Letter: Choose ‘No Build’ For Potomac Yard
Letter to the Editor
Recently, there have been a number of briefings regarding the proposed Metro Station in Potomac Yard. At every one of these briefings, City staff described the four alternatives that were under consideration (now reduced to two). Alternative A, which will cost about $209 million, is adjacent to Potomac Greens, and Alternative B, which is calculated to be $268 million, is very close to the Potomac Yards mall, but is also on a scenic easement owned by the National Park service. Neither location will be outfitted with a Kiss-and-Ride lot, so potential riders must walk to these locations. This may be difficult for some, especially for the handicapped.
Letter: Make Veterans Day School Holiday
Letter to the Editor
I was disappointed to read that the Fairfax County School Board voted against an amendment making Veterans Day a school holiday.
Letter: Viable Options May Cost City
Letter to the Editor
When someone says he or she favors a Metro on Potomac Yard, the next question needs to be, “Which one?”
Column: Join in Fight against Child Abuse
Commentary
A report of child abuse is made every 10 seconds in our country, one of the worst records among industrialized nations that results in the death of between four and seven children each day. These tragic fatalities are just the tip of the “iceberg” of consequences our community faces due to child victimization.
‘Your Life Is Today and Tomorrow’
Residents of local senior living communities share their experiences.
“I didn’t want to come here,” said Bill Woessner, referring to Brightview Assisted Living Community in Great Falls. “That’s right,” agreed Sheila, his wife of more than 50 years, with plenty of her native Scottish brogue to be heard in her voice. “He really didn’t. We have a lovely house here in Great Falls and I don’t think he was ready to budge. But how long after we got here did that change?” she turned to her husband and asked. “At least a day,” he laughingly replied. “Seriously,” said Bill Woessner, “it probably wasn’t more than the first 48 hours.”
Creative Aging Festival Coming in May
Includes 114 performances, poetry readings, art exhibits, lectures, classes and more.
A Creative Aging Festival will take place throughout the month of May at 100-plus local venues in Fairfax County, the City of Fairfax, Arlington and Alexandria. The month-long festival includes 114 performances, poetry readings, art exhibits, lectures, classes and more.
County Adult Centers Offer Seniors Activities, Social Interaction
In 2014, the attendance at Fairfax County senior centers was 277,342.
At the Kingstowne Center for Active Adults, volunteer Frank Bauer sees zumba and yoga classes “flowing into the main room sometimes,” he says, revealing how popular those classes are at the center, which caters to seniors 55 and older. This Kingstowne center, one of 14 senior centers throughout Fairfax County, offers classes and activities to keep seniors active.
Column: Manifest Destiny
I wouldn’t say I have symptoms (why would I say that? If I said that, I’d have to admit that cancer is having an effect on me.
Fit for the Golden Years
Fitness programs for seniors are part of a trend.
One night each week, Sue Thompson can be found dribbling a basketball down the court, leading her team, the Nova United, to victory. Thompson, who is in her 60s, is one of the youngest players in her league, the National Senior Women’s Basketball Association.
72-year-old Filmmaker Debuts Alzheimer’s Documentary
When Barbara Klutinis’ husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s she had no idea how she was going to get through the ordeal ahead of her. After joining a support group and hearing the stories of others going through the same thing, Klutinis realized she was not alone. Inspired by the experience, she decided to make a documentary about the lives of couples coping with the disease. The film, “The Sum Total of Our Memory: Facing Alzheimer’s Together,” will screen at the NOVA International Film Festival Friday, April 17, 1 p.m., at the Angelika Film Center in Fairfax.
Helping Hands
Senior Services of Alexandria
Five years ago, Mary Lee Anderson was asked if she could help Senior Services of Alexandria set up an information database. Since that time, what was supposed to be a part-time commitment has turned into a second career for the international telecommunications corporate executive.
Arlene Hewitt Sets the Pace for Seniors in Alexandria
A recipe for activism at any age.
She is four feet 10 inches tall and 84 years old. She tutors children who cannot read; she champions health insurance for the uninsured in Alexandria; she meets with mayors and senators; she takes 90-year-old gentlemen out to dinner; she wants to reduce the teen pregnancy rate in Alexandria; and she never lets more than a few days go by without chatting with her children or grandsons, usually via email or skype.
Aging in Place
Finding out about the latest services and programs.
Alexandria is a great place to be a senior – there are so many different services and organizations with programs designed to help older residents remain in their homes and age in place safely and in a healthy environment.
Inclusive Camaraderie for Seniors in Alexandria
Class offers a place to chat and get balanced.
Margaret Lewis got things going for seniors at the Mount Vernon Recreation Center, starting the first Tai Chi class, knitting group and square dancing classes about 15 or 20 years ago. “It all started with Margaret Lewis,” says Donna MacDonald.