Home LifeLifeStyleStyle Page 19 Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A Connection Newspaper December 11, 2014 Beautify Más Taco Bell wins Mary Thonen Award.

By Tim Peterson The Gazette

hen she first heard Taco Bell had won, WYolanda Frye was shocked. “It means a lot to our Taco Bell,” said the regional general manager for the chain. Tim Peterson/The Gazette The location at 8652 Richmond Board of Supervisors Chair- Highway in particular won first man Sharon Bulova praised place at the Mary Thonen High- the redevelopments in way Beautification Awards, pre- southern Fairfax County at sented by the Southeast Fairfax the SFDC open house and Mary Thonen awards cer- See Award, Page 3 emony. Citizens Coalition Jason Lewis carries a Fraser fir tree out Mt. Vernon resident Scott Mitchell picks for a customer to look at on Sunday out a tree at the Kiwanis tree sale on afternoon. Sunday afternoon. Petitions DOJ 53rd Annual Kiwanis Christmas Tree Sale Calls for investigation of Fairfax County Police. he trees have arrived and the Mount Fairfax County Park Association summer camp T Vernon Kiwanis Club is selling them once scholarships, Key Clubs at Mount Vernon High icholas Beltrante is try- Those include Dr. Salvatore J. again in the parking lot at the Belle View School/ West Potomac High School/ South County Ning to put even more Culosi, Jan. 24, 2006; Randall Shopping Center. The 700 Fraser Fir trees are from and Hayfield High/Secondary Schools, Builders pressure on the Fairfax Laroy Rollins, March 23, 2007; the Powers Tree Farm in Lancing, N.C. Along with Club at Carl Sandburg Middle School, K-Kids at County Police Department. The Hailu Brook, Dec. 10, 2008; David the trees, wreaths and garland are also available. Stratford Landing Elementary School, Reading is Mount Vernon resident and execu- A. Masters, Nov. 13, 2009; Ian C. The Mount Vernon Kiwanis Club raises nearly FUNdamental free book distribution, Disabled Boy tive director for the Virginia Citi- Smith, Feb. 5, 2010; Nicholas $25,000 annually from the Christmas tree sales. Scout troop, the 30/30 Club at Mount Vernon High zens Coalition for Police Account- Allen Kaelber, July 8, 2012, John All of the profits are used to support programs and School, Food Drives at Hollin Hall Safeway and ability (CCPA) recently filed a pe- B. Geer, Aug. 29, 2013 and James activities in the Mount Vernon community includ- the Farmers Market Food Collection. The hour of tition with the U.S. Department of Bryant, Oct. 30, 2013. ing United Community Ministries, New Hope Hous- operation are: weekdays noon to 8 p.m. and week- Justice Civil Rights division to in- “We feel the Justice Department ing, Good Shepherd Housing, Psychiatric Rehabili- ends 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the parking lot of the Belle vestigate the FCPD. should investigate this matter,” tation Services, “Help the Homeless” Walkathons, View Shopping Center. “It says that the FCPD is lacking said Beltrante, who hopes a re- accountability and transparency,” sponse and investigation will bring Photos by said Beltrante. “The department a change in FCPD “policies and Louise Krafft/ has not charged any officer with a procedures, specifically the use of Gazette crime in a shooting death in lethal force.” Fairfax County, going back 74 Though Beltrante is confident years.” with the petition itself to be “eye- The 64-page petition includes catching,” he acknowledged the Piper Pratt and newspaper clippings, coroner’s re- slow pace of this type of investi- Jeanette Wong ports and letters from the families gation. “I wouldn’t expect any re- watch as David of eight individuals who, all report- sults for at least a year,” he said. Morris and edly unarmed, were shot and killed Jason Lewis by Fairfax County Police officers. — Tim Peterson trim the base of

a holiday tree.

12/12/14

Requested in home in Requested

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Time-sensitive

Postmaster:

Attention

Permit #482 Permit

Alexandria, VA Alexandria,

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U.S. Postage U.S. PRSRT STD PRSRT www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News A Different Perspective Beautification Award Ian Temple Roberts From Page 1 writes of life, beauty. Development Corporation (SFDC) Dec. 3 at the recently completed Shelby apart- By Ed Simmons, Jr. ment building. The Gazette Mary Thonen was once the SFDC board president and a longtime volun- n time for the holidays, Mount teer with the organization. Described in Vernon-area resident Ian Temple a short video for the awards presenta- I Roberts has published a book of tion as “gentle” and “wonderful,” Thonen memoirs with page after page of art was driven to encourage beautifying the photography and poetic commentary; the Route 1 corridor. volume’s called “Hidden in Plain Sight: The awards named for her recognize Moments of Beauty.” Photo by Ed Simmons, Jr. and thank commercial property owners “It’s for people who like art books — a Ian Temple Roberts who exemplify that mission, be it through compact coffee table book, a travel-related improved landscaping, architectural en- book. It’s also for people who like to read From them, as his art photographs show, hancements, design or simply excep- about traveling Brits,” he said at his home he learned to love travel. “They were very tional exterior cleanliness. in Hollin Hills which he shares with wife literate parents, Church of England ‘church Criteria are just that the business be Kathy, son Kevin and black labrador Pippa people.’” He now attends regularly the visible from Route 1, from the Fairfax who’s a star at the Westgrove Off-leash Dog morning and the 5:30 p.m. Celtic Service County Parkway south of Fort Belvoir up Park. at St. Aidan’s and still travels, just back from to the Beltway. Roberts was born in Yorkshire April 21, England and Scotland. The citizen committee that made the Photos by Tim Peterson/The Gazette 1933, a mellowing 81 years His memoirs are filled with selections recognized Taco Bell’s six- Walter Clarke (left), Burke & ago. chatty, humorous, idiosyn- month remodeling of both its interior and Herbert Bank Business Banking “Certainly York- cratic prose humming along exterior. “It’s obvious they care,” said Vice President and SFDC board shire is a part of En- like a well-tuned Jaguar (a Roger Reutershan, a member of the of directors president, and gland,” he mused, “but backfiring, broken-down SFDC. Supervisor Jeff McKay (D-Lee) there are people who 1936 model was his first car “Everything is new,” said Frye. “Out- begin the presentation of the would argue.” purchased in 1957). The side, inside, changed restrooms, all new Mary Thonen awards. At his living room book describes his growing tables and chairs, the walls, everything.” perch at a plate glass up, his travels, his work as SFDC Executive Director Edythe leaves a lot to be desired,” he said. “We window where he writes maverick business consult- Frankel Kelleher noted the diversity of should have first class bus rapid transit overlooking woods and ant, and his loves, both fa- businesses being recognized. system in place today. There’s no reason birds, he observed, “This milial and otherwise. “First place is a franchise Taco Bell,” we can’t do that in the short term.” a North of England day. Then comes page after Kelleher said. “When I spoke with [Frye] As for a Yellow Line expansion, Miserable. Damp, cloudy, ash- page of quirky photo- on the phone, she was so excited, she “There’s not an elected official that dead leaves all around the The book can be purchased graphs that reveal more said, ‘Oh I’m going to tell my whole doesn’t want to see rail on the highway,” ground.” at Friesen Press, the W when closely observed, team.’ Then the second place, Mount McKay continued. Then he found a silver lin- ington, D.C. bookstore as he instructs with ac- Vernon Plaza, a big outfit with Federal When Bulova arrived, she was quick ing, adding, “The ground has Politics and Prose. and also companying pages of the author Realty, investment trust, property: It was to confirm that yes, she was stuck in traf- a lovely wet smell.” from commentary that ruminate really the two ends of the spectrum from fic and yes, “We’re working on that.” The Silver linings are much a and delve, often poetically. number one and number two.” chairman then transitioned to the topic part of “Hidden in Plain Sight” as he remi- Tp purchase copies, visit Supervisor Jeff McKay (D-Lee) helped of beautification of Route 1. nisces on his pleasant childhood despite Freisenpress.com, order at any bookstore, open the program and stalled for Board “I’m originally from this part of the German bombs and then in peaceful years or contact him by email at of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova county, when I first moved into Fairfax being led around the countryside and [email protected]. That way one can to get to The Shelby (6200 North King’s County in 1966,” she said. “I can tell you abroad to France and the Pyrenees by his make an appointment to drop by for a chat Highway). “I’m glad the chairman is that this area is really blooming, just travel-loving school teacher parents. and get a copy signed. late,” McKay deadpanned, “because that turning into something more wonderful might mean she’s stuck in traffic, which than it ever was before. So congratula- might mean it’ll be easier to get even tions for helping that happen.” more road money to this end of the Honorable mentions for beautification county.” awards were Huntington Gateway, Red But he took the opportunity to high- Roof Inn, Montebello Condominium, light the need for improved transit along Cityside/Huntington Metro Apartments the corridor. “The quality of our transit and Mount Vernon Square Apartments.

From left: SFDC Executive Director Photo Contributed Edythe Frankel WPHS Booster Club Sells Trees Kelleher, Taco Bell West Potomac High School Boosters egan its annual Christmas Tree Regional General fundraiser at Sandburg Middle School on Nov. 29. Sales are week- Manager Yolanda Frye days 5-8 p.m. and weekends Saturdays 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays and SFDC board of 12-5 p.m. until Dec. 20. This has been a community-based event for directors president over 30 years starting with Ft. Hunt High School and now continued Walter Clarke recog- by the West Potomac High School Booster Club. The trees are all nize Taco Bell with freshly cut from southwest Virginia. Athletic teams and parent the first prize Mary volunteers participate. Current Fairfax County Public School em- Thonen Highway ployees receive a discount. Above are WPHS Country and Winter Beautification Award. Track Team volunteers. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 ❖ 3 People Local Film Maker Shines at International Film Festival

previous night’s 20-year lando Film Festival, said the Story focuses on life West Potomac High reunion. programmers found the film Kiros’ latest film,“The Mal- to be a fun and emotional re- after high school. adjusted,” is loosely based on flection of the struggles on himself and his high school writing and friendship. By Victoria Svanborg friends after they graduated. “Aside from the story and The Gazette The movie follows a group tight script, the film is excel- of friends in Alexandria who lent on a technical scale as fter growing up in Tennessee, and experiences long nights, late well. Chris Kiros has a great a three-year stay in Greece when mornings and the art of eye for composition and find- Ahe was 14 through 17, Chris Kiros growing up. Kiros had al- ing the best way to present came to Alexandria. He now lives ways wanted to shoot a the story,” Cavallaro said. in Belle View with his wife, Christina, and movie in Old Town because Josh Davidson, producer, 7-year-old son, Lucas. it is where he and his friends director of photography and In 1996, 21-year-old Kiros attended New hung out and went to work. editor of “The Maladjusted” York University for a course in filmmaking. He wanted to write some- said he learned a lot from By then, all work was done on 16 millime- thing simple and without a making the movie. Davidson ter film and editing was done by literally lot of special effects because and Kiros have created mov- cutting the film, not by using a shortcut on he had to keep the costs Photo by Victoria Svanborg/The Gazette ies together before but this a computer. down. Filmmaker Chris Kiros was different. Previously “It was a great experience,” Kiros said, Kiros said that writing is they had done horror films explaining how he had to learn it all over always tough, but once it begins to flow it’s that I know what it’s like to be on drugs. with a lot of special effects, but this time again when filmmaking went digital. easier, but the budget is what really affects The pain and the suffering fades quickly, they focused more on casting. Kiros started getting into film making things. If he had had unlimited funding for it’s like with kids. They cry for six months “Chris Kiros is great to work with,” when he was 10 years old after he had seen the movie, there would be two things Kiros and then you want to make another one,” Davidson said. “He and I have become good “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” Kiros liked would change. The first would be sound, Kiros said. friends since he cast me in ZOMBthology. storytelling as a child and always imagined and he would also “burn every one of the “The Maladjusted” won Best Ensemble We have a great working relationship and he would write a book. DVDs and make it Blue Ray instead.” He is Cast at the Orlando Film Festival in Octo- we don’t let each other settle or get com- “I never thought filmmaking was possible, very happy with the music and acting per- ber, and John C. Bailey, who played Yon placent on a film set, no matter how tired never thought it was something I could do,” formances. Zamolla, was nominated for Best Support- we may be.” he said, and takes another sip of the “I don’t recommend [film making] for ing Performance. Visit http://www.imdb.com/title/ Gatorade in his hand, an aftermath of the anyone. You can’t stop. It’s like heroin. Not Jerry Cavallaro, associate director of Or- tt2041510/ for more.

Christmas at Bethany Lutheran December 24 Family Worship 5:30 p.m. especially for children • Preservice music at 7:15 p.m. Candlelight Worship 7:30 p.m. December 25 Preservice music at 9:45 a.m. Festival Worship 10:00 a.m. December 31 Community Watch Night Service by the African Immigrant Ministry 8:00 p.m. –1:00 a.m. 2501 Beacon Hill Road, Alexandria, Virginia 22306 More info: 703-765-8255 or www.bethany-lcms.org

Alexandria Handyman Services No Job Too Big or Too Small Free Estimates Local References • Electrical • Plumbing • Gutter Repair • Interior & Cleaning Renovation • Yard Work • Moving Services • Landscaping • Tree Trimming, • Minor Roof Cutting, Removal Repairs • Snow Shoveling • Painting & Much More Mark Carlson and Associates • Alexandria, VA Office 703-660-6212 • Mobile 703-863-1758 [email protected]

4 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Holiday Gift Guide Rex Reiley RE/MAX Allegiance 703-768-7730 [email protected] Alex./Riverside Terrace Mid $300’s 3425 Ramsgate Terrace COMINGSOON Conractor/Handyman special. Great potential for 5 bedroom, 3 bath, 2 level split. Needs extensive work but lots of potential. Will be priced in mid 300’s. 5 minues to Fort Belvoir, 15 minutes to Huntington Metro & Old Town Alex. Occasionally Cake owner and cake designer Sabrina Contact Rex with questions. Campbell ices a layered vanilla cake with “Classic Va- nilla” frosting. Alex./Riverside Estates $509,900/$2,600 Occasionally Cake 8506 Wagon Wheel Road 8859 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria Totally remodeled 4 BR, 3 BA Adam Fitzgerald of Mount Gingerbread man cookies $3, cupcakes $2.75-$3.25, cakes $4.50 per Split – Replacement windows, new Vernon picked up chocolate serving plus additional design work, own line extracts and flavorings kitchen w/granite, SS, ceramic tile banana, spice cake, choco- $12.50-$15. floors, 3 brand new baths, refin- late-chocolate chip and “We’ve reached that age where we have so much stuff, people like to ished hardwood floors, freshly creamcicle cupcakes from painted, 6-panel doors. Family find unique, consumable things they don’t have to dust,” said owner room on lower level with walkout Occasionally Cake for his and cake designer Sabrina Campbell. “We’re doing a lot for December to large fenced backyard. Deck overlooks backyard. Minutes to Ft. mother’s birthday. birthdays, business celebrations and inter-office giving.” Belvoir – Walk to Mt. Vernon Estate, elementary and high schools. Alex./Riverside Estates $2,550 8318 Orange Court Reduced. Beautiful 4 bedroom, 3.5 RENTAL bath Colonial with Carport in wonder- ful Mt. Vernon Community. 3 finished levels. Newer kitchen and baths, gleaming hardwood floors, screened porch, deck, large corner lot. Separate laundry and storage rooms. Scenic commute along G.W. Pkwy and Potomac River – 5 minutes to Ft. Belvoir, 15 to Old Town, Alex, 35 to Pentagon/D.C. – Walk to Elementary and High Schools. Alexandria • River Towers Gourmet wine, cheese and beer make great consum- 6641 Wakefield #405 • $1,250 able gifts. RENTALBeautifully updated & immaculate 1 BR in popular River Towers in fabulous location right off the G.W. Parkway & Potomac River. Photos by Tim Peterson Remodeled bath & remodeled kitchen w/granite Susan (left) and John Roe (right) of Alexandria went The Gazette & SS. Freshly painted. Lovely wood floors. 2 home with a bottle of white Dow’s port. walk-in closets. RENT COVERS HEAT/AC.

UnWined Gourmet Wine and Cigars Ft. Hunt/Plymouth Haven 1600-A Belle View Blvd, Alexandria Swing’s Diplomat and G Street coffee blends (Alex- $839,900 Hardywood Great Return IPA $12 (Richmond), andria-roasted) 1 lb bag $11. UNDER 8632 Plymouth Road Firehook Baked Sea Salt Crackers $6 (Chantilly), “Consumables are the perfect gift that anyone loves Beautiful brick front Colonial with 2-car Thibaut-Janisson sparkling wine (Monticello) $30, to get,” said general manager Renée Lorraine. “These CONTRACT garage in fabulous location of Plymouth Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam Triple Cream cheese $20, are nice treats, things people normally wouldn’t buy Rd. in Ft. Hunt with Waynewood Potter’s Farmhouse Dry Cider (Free Union) $12, for themselves.” Elementary. Built 1989. 4 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths. .56 acre. Study on main level. Beautiful back screened porch. Spacious master bedroom suite w/sitting room. Kitchen and breakfast area open to living room with wood-burning fireplace and brick hearth. Approximately 3,000 sq ft above ground. It’s lovely! Alex./Riverwood $798,000 3716 Carriage House Court

UNDER Spectacular 6 BR/3.5 BA Colonial in Prestigious Waterfront Community of CONTRACT Riverwood. 4,000+ sq ft of remodeled living space. Loaded with upgrades, must see to believe, plus a beautiful In- Law Suite on main level. Stunning hdwd floors, light and bright w/great flow – perfect for entertaining. Quiet, private w/absolutely incredible landscaping. Classy, spacious and TLC! 5 minutes to Ft. Belvoir, 15 mins to Old Town Alex, 25 mins to Ntl Airport. Mt. Vernon’s Finest! For more information: www.RexReiley.com Each Office Independently Owned and Operated www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 ❖ 5 Holiday Gift Guide Gifts of Artists, Gardeners, Hobbyists Viewpoints What is the best gift, that you have given, that did not cost anything?

Photos by Renée Ruggl

The River Farm gift shop carries many items, made locally including pottery, soaps, notecards, and pieces made from wood found on the property.

Melanie Lynch, one of River Farm’s newer es/the Gazette volunteers, shares a display of books and he Mount Vernon-area is filled with oppor gardening gear that the gift shop carries. Ttunities for participating in the arts and All profits support maintaining the working on hobbies. Local shops carry an grounds. On Dec. 13, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., array of gifts for a range of interests. the house gift shop will be open. They will — Renée Ruggles be serving hot cider and cookies. The Jo Cowie and daughter, Abi, Alexandria: “The best gift, is house will be decorated for the holidays being there for my friends when they needed someone.” and a shop filled with items to interest local gardeners of all ages. More informa- tion about River Farm and its gift shop, can be found at www.ahs.org.

Gift-giving inspiration, found at In Stitches: Project bags, yarn bowls, fun stocking stuffers, and magnetic needle and scissor cases that will also work for jewelry.

Kaitlin Murphy, traveling Bobby Wilcox, visiting from field biologist: “One Christ- Iowa: “I like to carve mas, I asked a cigar store spoons. I burn out the bowl for their empty boxes. I with coal, from a campfire, painted birds on them and Patricia Eaton, In Stitches’ store manager, and smooth them out, so filled them with nature’s shares some of the store’s array of sup- they can be used. I’ve given treasures, like bird’s nests. plies for needle artists of all skill levels. It them to my mom and I gave them to my friends also offers classes, framing, and an exten- sister.” and family.” sive selection of yarn and thread. More information can be found at www.institchesneedlework.com. The Eagle and Empire Game and Hobby Shop carries a wide selection of games, models, supplies, puzzles and more.

Photos by Renée Ruggles The Gazette

Doug Ray, stands among the comic books, games, books, and models sold at his Eagle and Empire Game and Hobby Shop. He carries some- thing for hobbyists and game play- ers of all ages. On Dec. 13 and 20, customers can also support the Neuroblastoma & Pediatric Cancer Research Fundraiser, by having their Bill Carnell, with his children William and Mary V, Alexan- purchases wrapped at the store (12- dria. Mary V: “We played wheelchair volleyball, at the 5 p.m.). More information about Franconia Senior Center, when I was in 3rd grade.” Eagle and Empire can be found at William: “I was going to say the same thing, because I’m www.eagleandempire.net in 3rd grade, now.” 6 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 ❖ 7 Opinion

www.MountVernonGazette.com Make a Plan, Talk About It @MtVernonGazette An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered of thousands more were injured. Holidays lead SoberRide number. to homes and businesses. Here is help in to an increase in impaired driving, the Christ- SoberRide is not available for underage Published by mas and New Year season in particular. drinkers, but parents still should talk to their Local Media Connection LLC keeping impaired The annual Holiday SoberRide program will children about their plans, and tell them out 1606 King Street operate nightly from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. start- loud that you expect them not to drive im- Alexandria, Virginia 22314 drivers off the roads. ing Friday, Dec. 12, 2014, and continuing un- paired and not to get into a car with an im- Free digital edition delivered to til Thursday, Jan. 1, 2015 as a way to keep paired driver. your email box. Go to connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe he holiday party season is upon us, local roads safe from impaired drivers during Tell them to call you, and you’ll come get and with it an increase in drinking this traditionally high-risk, holiday period. them if necessary. The news has been full of and driving. It’s up to you to make NEWS DEPARTMENT: T During these times, area residents celebrat- teachable moments about the consequences [email protected] a plan to get home safely. ing with alcohol can call the toll-free SoberRide and vulnerabilities of drinking to excess, drink- Steven Mauren Plan to bring a designated driver. Plan to take phone number 1-800-200-TAXI for a no-cost ing and driving and beyond. Don’t let the op- Editor, 703-778-9415 public transportation. Plan to celebrate (up to $30 fare), safe way home. Call- portunity to talk about it pass you by. [email protected] at home or someplace where you can ers will be responsible for fare Tim Peterson spend the night. Plan to abstain. Editorial amounts over $30. — Mary Kimm Community Reporter And if all of that fails, the Washing- Since 1993, WRAP’s SoberRide pro- [email protected] 703-314-0789 [email protected] ton Regional Alcohol Project has a safety gram has provided more than 61,000 net for you. free cab rides home to would-be drunk drivers Jeanne Theismann 703-778-9436 WRAP, a local nonprofit organization, will in the Greater Washington area. [email protected] offer free cab rides to would-be drunk drivers We know that many young people over 21 Safe Ride Home @TheismannMedia throughout Northern Virginia during the win- are living at home with parents, or will be vis- WRAP’s 2014 Holiday SoberRide program will be Jon Roetman ter holidays. iting for the holidays. Parents, be brave. Have offered from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. nightly from Dec. 12, Sports Editor, 703-752-4013 More than 10,000 people died in drunk driv- a conversation with your children whether they 2014 to Jan. 1, 2015. To receive a free cab ride home [email protected] (up to a $30 fare), call 800-200-8294 (TAXI). See @jonroetman ing related accidents in 2012, including more are under or over 21. Be sure those over 21 SoberRide.com information listed below for important than 200 in Virginia and 160 in Maryland. Tens have a plan, and are equipped with the details concerning this program. ADVERTISING: For advertising information Letters to the Editor [email protected] 703-778-9431 active investigation. Why is it tak- Department in a court matter that killed by a red-light-running po- Debbie Funk Fox Guarding ing so long? Well, it took a U.S. is and remains filed under seal.” lice car ramming into mine like Display Advertising/National Sales senator, a federal prosecutor, and Now I’m not a lawyer, nor do I Ashley McIntosh in 2008. This is 703-778-9444 [email protected] The Hen-house an evidence disclosure lawsuit, but play one on TV, but that means: not about anti-police, this is about To the Editor: now we know why. Assistant At- Fairfax County Police refused to equal protection under the law, for Julie Ferrill Display Advertising, 703-778-9446 Fairfax County Police shot un- torney General Peter J. Kadzik provide evidence to the federal both police and citizens. The NTSB [email protected] armed John B. Geer in the door- wrote in a response to U.S. Sen. investigation, forcing them to suc- is not against pilots, the USDA is way of his home last year, and for Chuck Grassley of Iowa: “Issues cessfully sue Fairfax Police. Only not against meat. Both of these Helen Walutes Display Advertising, 703-778-9424 16 months now Fairfax Police have concerning withheld materials once ordered by the court was agencies provide oversight to pre- [email protected] been saying no comment, under were favorably litigated by the Fairfax Police forced to disclose the vent wrongdoing and protect the Andrea Smith evidence. By the way, Virginia citizens. This police cover up Classified Advertising, 703-778-9411 Senators Mark Warner and Tim makes it clear the fox is guarding [email protected] Kaine, are you at all embarrassed the hen-house, and it just can’t David Griffin this inquiry came from a senator continue. We trust the police to Marketing Assistant 703-778-9431 from Iowa? With respect, perhaps protect us, but how can we trust [email protected] it is time to play catch up. them when the few bad apples

The question is no longer among them are the ones we need Publisher whether the shooting of Geer was protection from? We need an in- Jerry Vernon an accident, an overzealous officer, dependent authority to investigate [email protected] or a police-sanctioned execution of police involved shootings. Editor & Publisher a citizen. We have sealed court Keith Harmon Mary Kimm [email protected] records to conceal the results of Mount Vernon @MaryKimm the attempt to cover up the cover Editor in Chief up. Is Fairfax County Police chief Steven Mauren Edwin Roessler confusing his Hold Line Photography: Deb Cobb, Craig Sterbutzel “chief” title with a station chief for Art/Design: the CIA in a terrorist stronghold? On County Taxes Laurence Foong, John Heinly Perhaps he thinks Fairfax Police To the Editor: Production Manager: Geovani Flores officers have a James-Bond-007 You should either hold the license to kill? I would like to think Fairfax County Board of Supervi- CIRCULATION: 703-778-9426 I am exaggerating, but the mes- sors accountable for their spend- Circulation Manager: sage from Chief Roessler seems to ing actions or pay higher and Ann Oliver be: I’m not telling, I don’t have to, higher taxes. The Board of Super- [email protected] and you can’t make me. At least visors has increased taxes for the he is consistent, since he gives that last seven years. A Connection Newspaper same response to the top Fairfax In November 2013, the Board of County supervisor, a federal pros- Supervisors, consisting of Bulova days since469 a still-unnamed Fairfax County police of- ecutor, and a U.S. senator. (D), Chairman, Gross (D) Mason ficer shot unarmed John Geer standing in the door- I hope I am not taking my life District, Cook (R) Braddock, Foust way of Geer’s home in Springfield, then let him bleed into my hands by publishing this (D) Dranesville, Hudgins (D) to death on Aug. 29, 2013. No information has been letter. Please remember I wrote Hunter Mill, McKay (D) Lee, released about the incident, officers involved not this should I get gunned down by Hyland (D) Mount Vernon, Smyth named, no explanation, no grand jury, no charges. (as Fairfax Police in my doorway like (D) Providence, Herrity (R) of Dec. 10, 2014) Geer, or shot in my car like un- Springfield, Frey (R) Sully, unani armed David Masters in 2009, or See Letters, Page 9 8 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Letters From Page 8 employees with an estimated cost of $15.26 an estimated $10.9 million tax revenue in- who would seek the supervisor position, mously approved a $10.6 million bonus to million in FY 2016. Employees should re- crease. The bonus and the bank bailout who would be satisfied with the $75,000 merit and exempt county employees with ceive a fair wage but, taxpayers should be alone total about $40.6 million. Without the per year and gladly work for the benefit of 12,000 merit employees earning an aver- considered after all they work hard and are types of spending stated above would a tax the Fairfax County residents. age of $68,000 annually whether or not asked to pay higher taxes to fund such plush rate increase be necessary? To keep up with what the Board of Su- their work performance merited a bonus. A pay plans. To add insult to injury, the Board of Su- pervisors does and votes on spending go to lose, lose situation. Those employees whose And, in 2013, with only Herrity voting pervisors is considering increasing their sal- web page http://www.Fairfaxcounty.gov/ work performance excel need not continue “No,” the Board of Supervisors approved a ary. They each earn $75,000 per year. They government/board/meetings/archive.htm to do so because they will receive a bonus $30 million bank bailout to pay off an un- must keep uppermost in their minds that Again, it is your choice to hold the Board of nonetheless and those who should work secured loan belonging to the Lorton Arts they work for the people and are public ser- Supervisors accountable for their spending hard to earn the bonus have no incentive Foundation. vants who are paid with hardworking tax- or continue to pay higher and higher taxes. to do so. Also, how many hardworking tax- In 2014, our real estate taxes increased payer dollars. if any one of them believe You can call 703-324-3151, the clerk to the payers are earning an average of $68,000 over 2013 because property values in- that the current salary of $75,000 is not board and provide your input for the Board annually let alone getting a bonus? creased. But, the Board of Supervisors with enough, they can resign and seek employ- of Supervisors. You can also email the Clerk But, that wasn’t enough. In 2013, the only Herrity, Cook and Symth voting “No” ment elsewhere. No one is forcing them to at [email protected]. You Board of Supervisors unanimously ap- raised the real estate tax rate by one-half run for office or continue to hold office.. can make a difference. proved a plush pay plan for general county cent per $100 of assessed value generating I’m reasonably sure that there are persons Frank Medico, Mt. Vernon

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 ❖ 9 Nature The Origin of Mount Vernon Watersheds slavery is found in his 1776 Virginia Decla- The role of tobacco. ration of Rights: “All men are by nature equally free and independent, and have By Martin Tillett certain inherent rights. Namely: the enjoy- ment of life and liberty, with the means of he first Europeans visiting the acquiring and possessing property, and pur- Potomac watershed witnessed suing and obtaining happiness and safety.” Tthe native people living along Mason’s apparently strong condemnations the river and immediately rec- of the slave trade and of slavery were ognized this area to be a cherished place strongly nuanced, and his actions (and, that provided the bounty of the earth and perhaps more importantly, his inactions) her rites of passage. These Algonquian- toward his own slaves run counter to the speaking natives called the river judgment of Mason as a slavery opponent. Cohongoroota and the literal meaning of One unintended consequence of the eco- the word is “River of Wild Geese nomic prosperity attributed to tobacco, re- Flying.” Early explorer and ad- sulted from the impact of the agriculture Part 4 venturer Captain John Smith practices necessary to keep clearing more noted in his writings how these land to replace the worn out land due to people harvested anadromous intensified tobacco farming. Clearing large fish, crabs, oysters, turtles, and migratory the trade then increased as more settlers and barges manned by slave crews. They swaths of forest into farm land resulted in birds like geese and ducks from the water- entered the region. came together for elaborate banquets. They the rapid decline of the preexisting tree ways and grew gardens of corn, beans, Armed with gunpowder and religion, fox-hunted and cock-fought, raced horses, cover that contained the flow of water dur- squash, pumpkins, gourds, sunflowers, nuts Europeans immigrated into the Potomac matched wits and swords. They feasted, ing rain events and kept in check the flow and berries on rich lands. They also grew River valley. Natives were forced off of their drank and they toasted, “our Land free, our of nutrients and sediments into streams and tobacco which they considered sacred and ancestral lands; corn, wheat, barley, hogs, Men honest, our Women fruitful.” Their phi- tributaries. Where there was once a forest smoked ceremoniously. To them it was pow- cattle and tobacco spread throughout the losophy was riddled with contradiction as canopy of branches and leaves and a floor erful magic and medicine. The Algonquian watershed with the immigrants. Whole the elite partnered in slaving voyages to Af- of rich organic humus that acted like a tradition put tobacco fourth in the order of tribes fled, north to the Great Lakes, west rica. Opulence and profit were won as to- sponge to absorb and slow down the ero- creation: God first made woman, second over the mountains, pursued into non-ex- bacco and slavery harnessed all — Africans, sive energy from rain, are now open fields man, then corn, and then tobacco. Little did istence. By 1750, the valley was explored indentured servants, hired hands, wives and leaving the soil bare to the elements. Navi- these Woodland Culture people know that and settled. “During the 62 years following children — to the land. Tobacco is “the crop gable waters began silting up and small the sot weed they so revered would lead to the settlement at Jamestown [Virginia],” that wears out men and land,” wrote Tho- colonial era port towns such as Colchester their own undoing and the first serious im- wrote Thomas Jefferson, “two-thirds of the mas Jefferson, who called it “a culture pro- on the Occoquan and Belle Haven on Hunt- pacts on local streams and tributaries. Indians of 40 tribes disappeared because of ductive of infinite wretchedness.” ing Creek were no longer able to accom- It was the Jamestown farmer, John Rolfe smallpox, spirituous liquors, and the abridg- Washington denounced slavery in print, modate the deep draft ocean going ships. who pioneered tobacco production (1615) ment of territory.” but defended its practice. Washington was George Washington as a little boy came in the wilderness of Virginia. He experi- After the founding of Jamestown, colo- unwilling to free his slaves. At his death on his brother Lawrence’s barge bringing mented with the golden weed Nicotiana nial Virginia Plantations were established (1799) he owned 316 slaves. He never set Mount Vernon tobacco to the Hunting Creek tabacum, a Brazilian tobacco that grew first on the James and York rivers. Later the them free. Surveyor, statesman, soldier — tobacco warehouses established by act of sweeter, less harsh and more resilient in the plantations crept north to the George Assembly in Virginia soil than the native species Nicoti- Rappahannock and into the Potomac Val- Washington’s 1730 at the ana rustica. His new wife — the recently ley. Plantations sprouted out of the Potomac greatest love was mouth of Christianized Pocahontas — advised him in wilderness, looming mansions at their farming. Great- Great Hunting planting in the traditional native way. John hearts. Here lived the planter elite — the grandfather John Creek, where Rolfe’s crop came in and by 1617; the Vir- Washingtons, Lees, Masons, the Lords secured the tracts it empties into ginians had exported 20,000 pounds of leaf; Fairfax and others. They built elaborate that the industri- the Potomac by 1618, 40,000 pounds. John Rolfe wit- homes; their gardens were stocked with ous George grew River, on the nessed another foreboding event, the first exotic plants and peacocks. Their land hold- into a 7,600-acre land of Hugh cargo of African slaves to be sold on ings and homes exemplified their prestige tobacco plantation. West, Sr. and America’s shores. From 1675 to 1708, the and power. Almost everyone lived on plan- By 1783, the Revo- where there Potomac valley drew over 300 slaves a year; tations; almost everyone farmed tobacco. lutionary War’s was already a The Potomac was end, tobacco as the ferry to the a common bond for most important Maryland side the planter elite. crop was dying; the of the river. Conversation ran on land could not take Almost imme- tobacco, horses, it. People moved diately a little hunting and more away, plantations collapsed, slaves and land village grew up — a group of small houses tobacco. Ships from were sold. Anticipating tobacco’s demise, and a school — known then as Belle Ha- Europe and the West Washington began diversifying his Mount ven. For years the Hunting Creek warehouse Indies brought Vernon industries by phasing tobacco out, had handled tobacco from Mount Vernon, sugar, chocolate, churning profit out of his granaries, his fish- Belvoir, Gunston Hall, and their neighbor- spices, presses and eries and whiskey distillery. With wife ing estates. By the time Washington had books, copper and Martha’s death in 1802, even Mount Vernon died, these ports were silted in and no silver, Oriental por- succumbed to decay. longer able to accept seafaring ships. celain, exotic woods Unlike Mount Vernon, at nearby Gunston Next Week along with fine fash- Hall, lived George Mason, the second larg- Part 5 will examine the impact of subur- ions and cloth. All est slaveholder in Fairfax County and a to- ban development and urbanization on ships that sailed for bacco farmer. Mason helped draft the U.S. Mount Vernon Watersheds. England were Constitution, but refused to sign the final The author is a Mount Vernon resident since 1981. loaded with to- copy because it did not prohibit the impor- A retired science educator from Prince George’s County Public Schools, he taught K-12 science at the bacco. Rich planters tation of slaves, did not adequately restrain Howard B. Owens Science Center in Greenbelt, Md., living on the river the powers of federal government and it as well as community college, university and adult education classes in natural history, physical geology, had their own sloops lacked a bill of rights. Mason’s position on ecology and environmental science. 10 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Obituary La Petite Hairstylists Capt. Robert “Bob” Rice USN (Ret) Specializing in ❦ Hair Style & Cut ❦ Highlights ~ Foil/Cap obert Rice, 82 died at his Navy Occupa- ❦ Perm Rhome in Alexandria on tion (Europe) Nov. 19, 2014 after a long and the Viet- struggle with COPD. nam Service $ $ $ Bob was born March 5, 1932 in Medal. He is a 10 OFF 40 OFF 30 OFF All Services Brazilian Keratin Lawrence, Mass. He is the son of member of the WATER! WATER! Highlights the late Willard and Ethel Rice of Caterpillar on 1st Visit Treatment on 1st Visit on 1st Visit So. Yarmouth, Mass. He is survived Club. Bob, Ask for Sung Hee • Expires 12/31/14 by his wife of 49 years Betty (Geor- considered EVERYWHERE! gia) Rice of Alexandria; his brother one of the best jet pilots in the 1703 Belle View Boulevard, Alexandria George and sister-in-law Moira of Navy, was invited to fly with the Unbelievable prices 703-765-4744 • www.lapetitehairstylists.com Osprey, Fla., niece Kimberly and famous Blue Angels but instead he starting from $250,000 for her husband Robert Hofeldt with opted to take his 5th tour of duty daughter from Manchester, Mass., in Vietnam as squadron leader. waterfront homes in the and nephew Bob and his wife Jen- In addition to his flying time, for Northern Neck of VA near nifer and their seven children from two years in 1963-1965, Bob was the Chesapeake Bay! Now HILDREN’S ESIDENTIAL AMP Steubenville, Ohio. the Aide/Flag Lieutenant to Vice C R C • Boys and Girls Age 6-16 Bob was a career Naval Jet Pilot Admiral John T. Hayward in Ha- is the time to buy that • Free Choice Activities who retired as Captain after 27 waii. In 1967 he attended the Na- dream property. Truly a • Over 40 to choose! years which included five tours of val War College in Newport, R.l. buyer’s market! • State-of-the-Art Wake Board duty in Vietnam, the last one as In 1968 he attended the Naval Cable Park Commanding Officer of VF-111, Postgraduate School in Monterey, Contact • ACA Accredited flying the world famous F4B attack Calif., and in 1973 the National • Established in 1955 – Open House in jet aircraft aboard the USS Coral War College, followed by staff as- Amy Jo Southard, Under the same Family Alexandria Dec. 14th Sea (CVA-43). During his lengthy signments in the Pentagon. Licensed VA Realtor ownership from 12-3 at the home career Bob flew a total of 3,347 Bob and Betty have lived in Al- • 2,3,4,7 Week Session of Kieran and Billy flight hours and had 687 carrier exandria since 1974 where Bob 703-447-6497 Options Mitchell. Please call landings which included 315 com- had a side activity as a docent at available for location bat missions in Vietnam. He was the Smithsonian Air & Space Mu- 804-436-2962 information. awarded the Distinguished Flying seum where he could provide his Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, great depth of military knowledge [email protected] Timber Ridge Camp Air Medal “24” Strike Force Nu- to visitors. Bob had a wonderful www.northernneckwaterfronthomes.com 410-833-4080 • [email protected] meral with 2 Stars, the Navy Com- sense of humor and he truly loved mendation Medal with Combat life. He will be sorely missed by “V” Navy Unit Commendation, his family and his many, many Meritorious Unit Commendation, friends. Full military service and Good Conduct Awards, the Na- burial will be held at a future date tional Defense Service Medal, at Arlington National Cemetery. Mary Ann Dunn ary Ann Dunn, 75, of Friday, Dec. 12, at St. Louis Catho- MKing George County lic Church, 2907 Popkins Lane, died Sunday, Nov. 30, Alexandria. 2014, at Mary Washington Hospi- Interment will follow in Mount tal. Comfort Cemetery. She is survived by her husband, Mary Ann, a former Mount James Seth Dunn Sr. of Vernon-Lee Chamber of Com- Fredericksburg; two sons, James merce member, was a Realtor with Seth Dunn Jr. of Maryland and Weichert Realty. She also served Dan Dunn of King George; eight several years on the Virginia Real grandchildren; and one sister, Estate Board. Mary ann and her Ellen Tambolas of Mechanicsburg, husband Jim were active in the Pa. chamber and the Mount Vernon A service will be held at 11 a.m. Knights of Columbus. Bulletin Board

Email announcements to www.soberride.com. [email protected]. In- clude date, time, location, description and contact for event: phone, email and/or THURSDAY/DEC. 11 website. Photos and artwork welcome. Information Breakfast. 8 a.m. at Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two Belle Haven Country Club, 6023 Fort weeks before event. Hunt Road, Alexandria. Learn more about the World Police and Fire Games. Tickets are $25. Contact HOLIDAY SAFETY 703-360-6925 for more. Free Cab Rides. 10 p.m.-6 a.m. daily, Friday, Dec. 12-Thursday, Jan. 1. SATURDAY/DEC. 13 Washington-metropolitan area residents celebrating with alcohol Office Hours. Fairfax County School may call the toll-free SoberRide Board Member Dan Storck will host phone number 1–800–200–TAXI and Saturday office hours. Members of be afforded a no-cost (up to $ 30 the community are invited to stop by fare), safe way home. Since 1993, to ask questions or to discuss WRAP’s SoberRide program has concerns, no appointment necessary. provided 61,002 free cab rides home Contact Dan Storck at to would-be drunk drivers in the [email protected] or his assistant Greater Washington area. Visit See Bulletin Board, Page 20 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 ❖ 11 12 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 ❖ 13 Holiday Entertainment Visiting with Mount Vernon’s Martha Washington Mary Wiseman discusses the inspiration for Details Mrs. Washington will be leading candlelight interpreting the nation’s first First Lady. tours of Mount Vernon Estate through Dec. 21 in the evenings on the weekend. Tickets are $22 for By Veronica Bruno In addition to caring for the domestic adults and $15 for children 11 and younger. Call The Gazette duties of the household, Mrs. Washington 703-780-2000 or visit www.mountvernon.org for traveled a lot during the presidency, which more. magine wearing five layers of clothing encompassed carriage travel—not an easy Ifor your job. Well, that’s exactly what mode of transportation. For five years she was commuting be- Mary Wiseman does when she shows Described as the “soldier’s best friend,” tween Williamsburg and Alexandria, where up for work as Martha Washington at Mount Wiseman is proud to provide more clarity she performed Martha only on special oc- Vernon Estate very day. on her role for the nation. “There are a lot Photo courtesy of Mount Vernon casions at first. After having lived in his- “Thank goodness women didn’t have to of misconceptions about her that I set torical Williamsburg for 35 years, she de- wear hoops and high heels at that time,” straight. She could be up to her elbows in cided to restire and move to the Mount she laughed as she described what goes into the nitty gritty and then put on the elegance Vernon area full time. She now resides in her dress as the very first First Lady of our of the presidency.” the Belle View area, where she frequents country. local restaurants such as Primo’s Family Wiseman also has to keep track of many IN SPEAKING WITH Wiseman, there is a Restaurant. accessories that go into all the details of sense that there is a strong connection be- “I have my own table. It’s one of the few being Mrs. Washington, including several tween the two ladies. places I feel comfortable stopping by after shoes, mob caps, neckerchiefs, and ridicules “Both of us were born in June. We have work [in full dress].” (ladies purse). the same heritage—Welsh. We both moved Having performed Martha for more than “I got my car because it has a lot of room to the area the same exact week. Washing- 10 years now, she started out with the origi- for my mob cap. Mrs. Washington wore a ton brought Martha to Mount Vernon in the Mrs. Washington (Mary Wiseman) nal General Washington historical actor, Bill very high cap.” You may see Mary driving first week in April [the same week Wiseman welcomes visitors to the candle- Sommerfield. She has been interpreting her Kia Soul in historical dress while com- moved to the Mount Vernon area from light tours at Mount Vernon. with the current general, Dean Malissa, ever muting to work. Williamsburg].” since he’s been at Mount Vernon. “We in- Like you, she also orders new parts to her And the similarities don’t end there. “We Williamsburg where she created the char- terpret so well together now. People often wardrobe every year, including a dress or were both left alone with young children.” acter actor program. ask us are they married in real life?” two and gets her shoes repaired regularly. Martha Washington became a widow at “I gathered the heads of Colonial If you are visiting the estate, you may find Wiseman has her own dressmaker and even the age of 25 with two young children (her Williamsburg and designed the program her performing needlework, much like more impressive, other children had ‘The Women Beside the Great Men,’” with Martha did, while conducting her tours or wears a corset ev- already passed special emphasis on beside as she described talks. ery day. On top of “I got my car because it away) and five to- the newly created program that focused on “My favorite part is every day when the that, the dress re- bacco plantations the women. kids sit with me.” quirements are the has a lot of room for my to run. Wiseman She designed a young version of Martha In addition to being on the grounds regu- same in winter as was left with Washington to tour sites she visited around larly, Wiseman also participates in several they are in summer. mob cap. Mrs. Washington young children af- Williamsburg, played by another inter- distinct occasions for the estate. “I love the Imagine wearing all ter her divorce preter. big events.” A particularly busy day during five layers in the wore a very high cap.” (she has since re- “I was so inspired by her story.” After this the fall may include a local TV channel spot Virginia heat. Like — Mary Wiseman, historical interpreter married). She also initial success, Wiseman was then asked to early in the morning at 7:45 a.m., a the original Martha for Martha Washington at Mount Vernon sat in the Bruton create the older Martha herself, which she voiceover for public television for a Christ- did during the time, Parish Church brought to Mount Vernon. mas special, interpreting on the grounds so does Wiseman as her interpreter. choir in And there’s an American Girl doll connec- during the day for three hours, and partici- But there is a lot more than dress that Williamsburg, where the graves of Martha’s tion. While in Williamsburg she collabo- pating in a special event in the evening for goes into playing Mrs. Washington. grandfather and those of her children re- rated with creator Pleasant Rowland on the three and a half hours. As she joked, “I’m “Her skills in the domestic art were amaz- side. She adds, “both of us have a love of Felicity doll storyline. actually busier in my retirement!” ing,” as Wiseman explained all those re- company and conversation.” “I was the chief research person for the But she clearly enjoys her job. quirements that went into being the house- Felicity doll. We modeled a lot of Felicity “It’s been a wonderful journey.” hold manager. “At that time, you had to be HOW DOES ONE become Martha Wash- on the young women’s interpretive program Mary Wiseman is on site every day as the family doctor, know every task, and had ington? Wiseman didn’t start out portray- at Williamsburg.” As Martha Washington, Martha Washington and will be heading to have a lot of pride in being an accom- ing the first lady. She was the artistic direc- she also served as inspiration for Miss candlelight tours of the mansion during the plished housewife.” tor of women’s history at Colonial Manderly in the story. holiday season.

Calendar

Email announcements to gazette@ architectural details, objects and due to President’s Day. more. christmas for more. connectionnewspapers.com. Include date, anecdotes, the tour recreates the www.gadsbystavern.org or 703-746- “Friend Me” Exhibit. Through Painting by John Trumbull. 9 a.m.- time, location, description and contact for experience of being at the estate in 4242 Monday, Jan. 5. Opening reception 4 p.m. through Jan. 7. at Mount event: phone, email and/or website. Pho- an unparalleled way. Broadway Christmas Carol. Runs Thursday Dec. 11, 6:30-8 p.m. The Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon tos and artwork welcome. Deadline is www.mountvernon.org/virtualtour through Dec. 28 at MetroStage, 1201 Art League Gallery, Studio 21, 105 Memorial Highway. On loan from the Thursday at noon, at least two weeks be- Tavern Toddlers. Weekly open N. Royal St. Enjoy the show North Union St., Alexandria. Jeweler Winterthur Museum, this portrait fore event. playtime continues every Monday Wednesday-Thursday, 8 p.m., Whitney Staiger melds together her was painted by Washington’s former throughout holiday season. 10:30- Fridays, 8 p.m., Saturdays, 3 p.m. friends’ public avatar with an aspect aide-de-camp as a gift to Martha 11:30 a.m. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, and 8 p.m, and Sundays, 3 p.m. and of their private selves on her Washington in 1790. Regular ONGOING North Royal Street, Alexandria. 7 p.m. Tickets are $50. Visit handmade brass cameos in a solo admission rates: adults, $18; senior Mount Vernon Virtual Tour. Caregivers, toddlers (walkers through www.metrostage.org for more. exhibit. www.theartleague.org 703- citizens, $16; children age 6-11, Art Exhibit Website users can now transport 3 years) and visiting relatives are . Through Jan. 2 at 1717 683-1780. when accompanied by an adult, $9; Christmas in Mount Vernon. themselves to George Washington’s welcome to play, read, dance and King St. and 300 S. Washington St. and children under age 5, free. Visit Mount Vernon in a click of a mouse color in the historic ballroom. No BB&T Bank hosts an exhibition of Through Tuesday, Jan. 6, 9 a.m.-4 MountVernon.org for more. “Beyond the Board” Art Exhibit. or touch of a screen through a new reservations required. Each week portraits of African American and p.m. at 3200 Mount Vernon virtual tour. Featuring 29, 360- costs $7 for a group of three, which women Living Legends of Alexandria Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon. Through Feb. 22. Prudential PenFed degree panoramic images, more than must include one adult, and at its Old Town branches. Monday- Mount Vernon decks the halls with Realty, 4900 Seminary Road, 200 points of interest, and dozens of additional people are $3. A three- Thursday 9 a.m- 5 p.m. and Fridays 9 themed Christmas trees on the estate Alexandria. Del Ray Artisans’

in-depth videos highlighting visit pass costs $18. On Monday, Feb. a.m.-6 p.m. Visit and festive greenery in the Mansion. presents “Beyond the Board.” A 16 Tavern Toddlers will be closed www.AlexandriaLegends.com. for Visit www.mountvernon.org/ portion of artists’ sales go to the 14 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Holiday Entertainment

PenFed Foundation, supporting active out how food was prepared and Life Drawing. Del Ray Artisans offers a military families, veterans and their served before the era of microwaves range of open life drawing sessions families. Visit and TV dinners. $5 in addition to for anyone to develop life-drawing www.thedelrayartisans.org/shows/ estate admission. Visit skills further. Just drop-in for the gww/ for more. www.mountvernon.org/ for more. session and bring your supplies to New Exhibit. Mount Vernon invites Second Thursday Music. draw or paint our live models. Fee visitors to explore George Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. 7 pm. ranges from $8-$12. All skill levels Washington’s design for the grounds Second Thursday of every month. are welcome. Del Ray Artisans is of his estate, through a new Visit nvfaa.org to view concert located at 2704 Mount Vernon Ave. exhibition, “Gardens & Groves: calendar and listen to upcoming Visit www.TheDelRayArtisans.org for ★ ★ George Washington’s Landscape” at Second Thursday Music artists. a schedule. Mount Vernon Antique Center Mount Vernon through Jan. 12, The Monday Morning Birdwalk has 2016. Gardens & Groves is the first been a weekly event at Huntley December 8101 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria Follow museum exhibition to focus Meadows since 1985. It takes place us on specifically on Washington’s every week, rain or shine (except Tree Sale. Weekends through 703-619-5100 Dealers Facebook & December, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. at St. landmark achievements as a during electrical storms, strong www.mtvantiques.com Twitter landscape designer combining rarely- winds, or icy trails), at 7 a.m. (8 a.m. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, 8531 seen original documents, artwork, November through March), is free of Riverside Road, Alexandria. Enjoy Discover the secret source of many collectors, dealers, and books with period garden tools, charge, requires no reservation, and music, warm drinks and cookies by landscape photography, and a scale is open to all. Birders meet in the the fire, while surrounded by frasier decorators and shoppers with “good eyes” and great taste. model of the Mount Vernon estate. parking lot at the park’s entrance at fir trees. Sales benefit of community Included in admission $18/adult; 3701 Lockheed Blvd. Direct questions outreach programs and local schools. $17/senior citizen; $9/child age 6- to Park staff during normal business Choose to have 10 percent of the sale 11; children under 5 are free. Visit hours at 703-768-2525. amount go to St. Aidan’s Day School www.mountvernon.org for more. or a local, public elementary school. Alexandria Cars & Coffee invites car St Aidan’s Episcopal Church, 8531 It’s not too late to arrange enthusiasts to meet for coffee at CAMPS, CLASSES & WORKSHOPS Riverside Road, Alexandria. Visit Hollin Hall Shopping Center in front Tavern Toddlers. Every Monday www.staidansepiscopal.com. of Roseina’s, 1307 Shenandoah Road. (except Federal Holidays) 10:30- Alexandria’s Holiday Market. At at a holiday party with us... Owners of classic cars, hot rods, 11:30 a.m. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria. exotic cars, motorcycles and more 134 North Royal Street, Alexandria. Vendors will sell traditional meet to share car stories and drink Join other families with toddlers European food, sweets and drinks Let La Bergerie help you. coffee. Group meets the first Sunday (walkers through 36 months) to have combined with art and craft vendors of every month. 8:30-11 a.m. fun in Gadsby’s historic ballroom. to create a European holiday market Fifty Years of Collecting. Tuesday- Playtime features a craft table, book shopping experience. The event also Small intimate gatherings to private rooms for 48 guests. Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sundays corner, toys and group dancing. $7 features the Holiday Sharing - Toy noon to 5 p.m. Fort Ward Museum for a group of three. Visit Drive program to support families in 4301 West Braddock Road. An www.alexandria.gov/gadsbystavern need, as well as the Hunger Free anniversary exhibit of objects from or call 703-746-4242. Alexandria initiative. Visit the Fort Ward collection. Free. Visit Photography Workshop. 10:30 a.m.- www.alexandriaholidaymarket.com www.fortward.org or call 703-746- noon at Multiple Exposures Gallery for more. ❖ 4848. on 105 N. Union St. Photographers Dec. 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22 and Dinner for the Washingtons. Noon and enthusiasts of all skill levels are 23 — 11 a.m.-8 p.m. ❖ at George Washington’s Mount invited to share work, ideas, and Dec. 24, Christmas Eve — 11 a.m.- Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon questions at this free workshop held 2 p.m. 218 N. Lee Street Memorial Highway. A walking tour on the last Sunday of each month, Studio 12. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. About that goes behind the scenes to find except December. No reservations. 20 artists will be showing their work 703-683-1007 • www.labergerie.com Call 703-683-2205. in two-week exhibitions through the

The Spice & Tea Exchange® of Alexandria 320 King Street • Alexandria, VA 22314 facebook.com/SpiceAndTeaAlexandria • spiceandtea.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 ❖ 15 Holiday Entertainment

end of 2014. This dynamic pop-up Vernon Ave. Featuring Tab Benoit Fairfax St. Garrett Peck, author of gallery provides an opportunity for with Tommy Castro and Samantha “Capital Beer: A Heady History of many of the associates to have their Fish. Tickets $35. Visit Brewing in Washington, D.C.,” will work on view. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549- discuss Alexandria’s brewing past, torpedofactory.org/events/ for more. 7500. present, and future based on the ❖ Dec. 1-14: Felicia Belair-Rigdon, Second Thursday Art Night. 6:30 - amusing and informative brochure, collage; Liz Roberts, paintings; Val 8:30 p.m. at the Torpedo Factory, “Alexandria’s Historic Breweries: A Proudkii, photographs; and Carol 105 N. Union St., Alexandria. “2nd Walking Tour & Pub Guide,” which Talkov, mosaic Independence” will be performing highlights 19 historic sites and 15 ❖ Dec. 15-28: Fritz Des Roches, jazz standards throughout the Official Hops Stops. See paintings; Barbara Muth, paintings; evening. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/alxbrewtour- Norma Hintze, ceramics; and www.torpedofactory.org. tickets-14698787469 for more. Free Marilynn Spindler, paintings but reservations are required, as space is limited. FRIDAY/DEC. 12 Annual Holiday Cheerleading THURSDAY/DEC.11 Washington’s Rye Whiskey Invitational. 11 a.m. at T.C. “Friend Me” Opening Reception. Available for Sale. 10 a.m. At Williams High School, 3330 King St. 6:30-8 p.m. The Art League Gallery, Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon The competition features youth Studio 21, 105 North Union St., Highway, 1,800 bottles of the aged cheerleading teams from Alexandria. Jeweler Whitney Staiger and unaged George Washington Rye neighborhood recreation centers and melds together her friends’ public Whiskey will be available for sale in- the metropolitan area. Tickets avatar with an aspect of their private person only. The aged whiskey retails available for purchase at the door. selves on her handmade brass for $185 per bottle; the unaged rye $10 for ages 13 and older; $5 for cameos in her first solo exhibit. whiskey retails for $95 per bottle. ages 5-12; and ages 4 and under are Exhibit runs through Monday, Jan. 5. Visit MountVernon.org/Distillery. free. Call 703-746-5402 or visit www.theartleague.org 703-683- Music performance by Woodlawn www.alexandriava.gov/Recreation. Good Shepherd 1780. Elementary School, 10:30-11 a.m. Catholic Church Reception for show “5x5(x5).” 6-8 at Reagan National Airport, Terminal p.m. at the Torpedo Factory, 105 N. C, across from Cosi. See SATURDAY-SUNDAY/DEC. 13-14 Mass Schedule Union St., Alexandria. Back by www.flyreagan.com for more. Historical Candlelight Tour. Monday (en Español); 6:30 pm popular demand, this small works Saturday, 6-9 p.m. and Sunday, 3-6 6:30 pm Mass (Español) Weekday & Saturday show is a juried exhibition that p.m. at various locations in Old Saturday Evening Mornings: 9:00 am Mass, FRIDAY-SUNDAY/ DEC. 12-14 5:00 pm Vigil Mass preceded by Rosary (on First invites artists to submit work that Town. This holiday event blends 6:30 pm Vigil Mass (en Español) Friday, Mass followed by cannot exceed 5” in any direction. Sugarloaf Crafts Festival. 10 a.m.-6 chocolate and history through special Sunday Eucharistic Adoration) Juror is local curator and arts writer, p.m. at Dulles Expo Center, 4320 tastings, seasonal decorations, period 7:30 am; 9:00 am (with Sign Thursday & First Kayleigh Bryant-Greenwell. Gallery Chantilly Shopping Center Drive, music and tours highlighting Language Interpreter & Friday of the Month: Children’s Liturgy of the Word); 7:30 pm Mass (Español) talk at 7 p.m. Call 703-838-4565 or Chantilly. Alexandria’s Michael chocolate through time. Visit 10:30 am; 12:00 Noon; 2:00 pm preceded by 7:00 pm visit www.torpedofactory.org. Heilman will be displaying his www.historicalexandria.org for more. Eucharistic Adoration Second Thursday Live: The Aloha handmade rugs among more than 8710 Mount Vernon Highway, Alexandria VA, 22309 Boys. 7 p.m. Athenaeum, 201 Prince 250 artisans who will display and sell Tel: 703-780-4055 Fax: 703-360-5385 www.gs-cc.org Street, Alexandria. $10 admission. their handcrafted work. Visit SATURDAY/DEC. 13 Loving as Christ loves, serving as Christ serves The Aloha Boys have played Carnegie www.sugarloafcrafts.com for more. Civil War Christmas. Noon-4 p.m. at Hall, The Birchmere and The Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site, Kennedy Center. They bring the 4301 W. Braddock Road. Visitors will To Advertise Your Faith Community, call Karen at 703-917-6468 warm aloha spirit on a cold day. Visit SATURDAY/DEC.13 meet a Civil War-era Santa at this www.nvfaa.org for more. Alexandria’s Historic Breweries family-fun holiday event exploring Whiskey Store Tour 2014. 7:30 p.m. Walking Tour. 1-3 p.m. at Old how Christmas was observed during at The Birchmere, 3701 Mount Presbyterian Meeting House, 323 S. the Civil War. Visit

www.RoyalRestaurantVA.com Exp. 12/31/14

16 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Holiday Entertainment

apps.alexandriava.gov/Calendar. Fire Department fire truck. Gifts will Holiday Concert. 8 p.m. at George MONDAY/DEC.15 be distributed to ticket holders. SUNDAY/DEC. 21 Washington Masonic Memorial,101 Annual Santa’s Winter TUESDAY/DEC.16 Children ranging in age from infant Skincare Treatments from Garden Callahan Drive. Visit Wonderland. 5-7 p.m. at the Chocolate Class. 12:45 p.m. at to 17 years old are welcome. For and Kitchen. 1-2 p.m. Athenaeum, www.alexandriachoralsociety.org. Charles Houston Recreation Center, Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. donation information, contact Ian 201 Prince Street, Alexandria. Annual Tree Trim. 2-5 p.m. at The 901 Wythe St., Alexandria. The Royal St. Learn how chocolate goes Hawkins at [email protected] or call Mellenie Runion of Truly-Life Eco Gum Springs Historical Museum, Alexandria Redevelopment & from cocoa bean to beverage in the 703-549-7913. Gifts explains how to use simple 8100 Fordson Road, Alexandria. The Housing Authority (ARHA), in 18th century. Participants will ingredients for a healthy skincare public is invited to this annual tree association with the City of participate in the process and taste a regimen. www.nvfaa.org trim. Call 703-619-6967 for more. Alexandria Recreation Parks Cultural final product. Tickets are $8 per THURSDAY/DEC. 19 The T.C. Williams Choir, 8 p.m. The Nutcracker in a Nutshell. 3 and Activities (RPCA) and Toys for Tots child. Call 703-746-4242 or visit Carbon Leaf. 7:30 p.m. at The T.C. Williams Choir has been selected 7:30 p.m. Rachel M. Schlesinger will hold its Annual Santa’s Winter shop.alexandriava.gov for more. Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. to participate in the annual Concert Hall, Northern Virginia Wonderland. Community welcomed TC Williams Winter Choral Tickets $35. Visit birchmere.com or Christmas Concert with the First Community College, Alexandria to view the Winter Wonderland and Concert. 7:30 p.m. at T.C. Williams call 703-549-7500. Family, broadcast from the National campus, 3001 North Beauregard enjoy Euille Tide reading by Mayor Auditorium, 3330 King St., Building Museum on TNT Channel 36 Street, Alexandria. A condensed Euille at Charles Houston Center. Alexandria. Free. Visit and Dish Channel 138. version of the classic holiday ballet Dreamdog Foundation mascot www.acps.k12.va.us/tcw/ for more. SATURDAY/DEC. 20 performed by The Ballet Arts singing. Gift of an unwrapped toy Kwanzaa Celebration. 11 a.m.-12:30 Ensemble of Fairfax. Bring a new, appreciated. The public is cordially p.m. at The Alexandria Black History MONDAY/DEC. 22 unwrapped toy to any of the invited to stroll through this WEDNESDAY/DEC. 17 Museum, 902 Wythe St. The A John Waters Christmas. 7:30 p.m. performances for the U.S. Marine’s Wonderland be transformed by the Annual Santa’s Winter museum’s annual program explores The Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Toys for Tots program. Tickets are scale model of the City with features Wonderland, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the the history and significance of Ave. $49.50. Visit $25 and are available in advance at such as City Hall, the Masonic Charles Houston Recreation Center, Kwanzaa. Learn about the principles www.birchmere.com for more. www.thecenterforballetarts.com or Temple, the Torpedo Factory and 901 Wythe St., Alexandria. The of Kwanzaa, a seven-day cultural 703-273-5344. Tickets will also be rows of town homes. For donation public is invited to stroll through this celebration. Tickets are $5. Visit available at the door. information, contact Ian Hawkins at Wonderland with a scale model of www.alexblackhistory.org for more. MONDAY-WEDNESDAY/DEC. 22-24 [email protected] or call 703-549- the City with features such as City Art at the Center. 5-7 p.m. at 2804 Breakfast with Santa. 8:30 a.m.- 7913. Hall, the Masonic Temple, the Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria. 12:30 p.m. Union Street Public SUNDAY/DEC. 14 Torpedo Factory and rows of town Enjoy light painting. Bring a book or House, 121 South Union St., Colonial Favorites. 2-4 p.m. at The homes. Gift of an unwrapped toy will toy to donate to Rising Hope. Call Alexandria. Have breakfast with Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St.The TUESDAY/DEC.16 be appreciated. For donation 703-201-1250 or visit Santa and Mrs. Claus before they Colonial English Handbell Ringers Annual Santa’s Winter information, contact Ian Hawkins at www.artatthecenter.org for more. take off for the big night. $10 per will return with their annual concert Wonderland.12:30-6 p.m. at the [email protected] or call 703-549- Christmas Illuminations. 5:30-9 child (age 0-12) and $15 per person at the Lyceum, featuring a group of Charles Houston Recreation Center, 7913. p.m. Sip hot chocolate while (age 13+) includes a continental 12 performers. Visit 901 Wythe St., Alexandria. ACPS Music performance by Carl watching fireworks over the breakfast, visit with Santa and Mrs. www.alexandriahistory.org for more. school and community performances Sandburg Middle School, 10:30- Potomac. This is a limited capacity Claus and tax. Tickets required. Decorate Gingerbread Cookies. 2 for the Alexandria community. Gift of 11:45 a.m. at Reagan National event. Advance ticket purchase is Limited amount for every seating. and 3 p.m. at The Athenaeum, 201 an unwrapped toy appreciated. The Airport, Terminal B, across from Cibo suggested. Tickets are $30 adults, Reservations Prince St., Alexandria. Whole Foods public is cordially invited to stroll Bistro. See www.flyreagan.com. $20 youth (6-11), children five and www.unionstreetpublichouse.com/ Market, Old Town provides through this Wonderland be under are free. Visit breakfast. gingerbread cookies along with transformed by the scale model of MountVernon.org for more. frosting, chips and sprinkles to the City with features such as City THURSDAY/DEC.18 Orchestra. 7 p.m. at The George decorate. Recommended for children Hall, the Masonic Temple, the Annual Santa’s Winter Washington Masonic Memorial SATURDAY/DEC. 27 6 and older. $10 suggested donation Torpedo Factory and rows of town Wonderland. 5-8 p.m. at the Theatre, 611 King St. The Symphony Live Music. 7:30 p.m. at the per child. Reserve for either timeslot homes. For donation information, Charles Houston Recreation Center, Orchestra of Northern Virginia Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. by emailing [email protected]. contact Ian Hawkins at 901 Wythe St., Alexandria. Gift presents “Holidays in Paris.” Visit Performance by Southside Johnny [email protected] or call 703-549- distribution. Santa and the Grinch www.sonovamusic.org for more. and The Asbury Jukes. $39.50. Visit 7913. arrive at the event on an Alexandria www.birchmere.com for more. TCHOUPITOULAS Fine Furnishings and Interior Design Tradition with a Twist

Amanda Nesbit Collection by Niermann Weeks available at Tchoupitoulas

210 N. Lee Street, Alexandria ~ 703-299-0145 www.TchoupitoulasFurnishings.com Mon–Fri: 10–6 • Sat: 10–5 • Sun: 12–5

Active Duty and Retired US Military Always INDUSTRY receive an additional 10% off every sale PARTNER www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 ❖ 17 Photos by Veronica Bruno/ Mount Vernon REAL ESTATE The Gazette In October 2014, 118 homes sold between $2,300,000-$90,000 Top Sales in October, 2014 in the Mount Vernon area.

1 7723 Southdown Road — $2,300,000

2 6124 4 8119 Vernon Yorktown Terrace — Drive — $1,270,000 $917,782

10 7216 Stafford Road — $725,000

8 7119 Marine Drive — $750,000 7 2308 Lakeshire Drive — $840,000 495 Address ...... BR FB HB ... Postal City .. Sold Price .... Type ...... Lot AC . PostalCode ...... Subdivision ...... Date Sold

1 7723 SOUTHDOWN RD ...... 6 .. 4 . 1 ..... ALEXANDRIA .. $2,300,000 .... Detached ..... 0.74 ...... 22308 ...... WELLINGTON ...... 10/29/14 Springfield 2 2 6124 VERNON TER ...... 4 .. 3 . 2 ..... ALEXANDRIA .. $1,270,000 .... Detached ..... 0.19 ...... 22307 ...... BELLE HAVEN ...... 10/30/14

3 3806 WASHINGTON WOODS DR 5 .. 3 . 1 ..... ALEXANDRIA .. $1,015,000 .... Detached ..... 0.34 ...... 22309 WASHINGTON WOODS POTOMAC 10/01/14 10 8 4 8119 YORKTOWN DR ...... 5 .. 4 . 1 ..... ALEXANDRIA .... $917,782 .... Detached ..... 0.15 ...... 22308 ...... HOLLIN HALL VILLAGE ..... 10/15/14 1 5 5222 BURKE DR ...... 5 .. 3 . 2 ..... ALEXANDRIA .... $915,000 .... Detached ..... 0.50 ...... 22309 ...... MT VERNON TERRACE ..... 10/07/14 95 Mount 4 Vernon7 6 3807 WOODLEY DR ...... 6 .. 5 . 1 ..... ALEXANDRIA .... $845,000 .... Detached ..... 0.58 ...... 22309 ...... WOODLEY HILLS ...... 10/17/14 Woodlawn 9 6 7 2308 LAKESHIRE DR ...... 4 .. 3 . 1 ..... ALEXANDRIA .... $840,000 .... Detached ..... 0.25 ...... 22308 .. MANORS AT MOUNT VERNON . 10/02/14

1 8 7119 MARINE DR ...... 5 .. 3 . 1 ..... ALEXANDRIA .... $750,000 .... Detached ..... 0.33 ...... 22307 ...... MARLAN HEIGHTS ...... 10/03/14 5 3 9 3171 WOODLAND LN ...... 3 .. 2 . 0 ..... ALEXANDRIA .... $750,000 .... Detached ..... 0.51 ...... 22309 ...... WOODLAND PARK ...... 10/24/14

Lorton FORT 10 7216 STAFFORD RD ...... 4 .. 2 . 0 ..... ALEXANDRIA .... $725,000 .... Detached ..... 0.38 ...... 22307 ...... HOLLIN HILLS ...... 10/31/14 BELVOIR Copyright 2014 RealEstate Business Intelligence. Source: MRIS as of November 18, 2014.

18 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Home LifeStyle Gifts for the Home Local shop owners offer suggestions to make holiday shopping easier. By Marilyn Campbell The Gazette

hile holiday shopping is part of the spirit Wof the season, for some choosing a present for everyone on their list can be over- whelming. Local small business owners come to the rescue with gift ideas for the home. Give the gift that keeps on burning long after the holidays. Autumn Clayton, owner of Covet, a bou- tique in Arlington that specializes in local and hand- Photos courtesy of JT Interiors made gifts, recommends hand-poured, soy candles by Sydney Hale in Purceville, Va. Among the exotic fragrances are tobacco sandalwood and fir and blue sage. “They are 100-percent soy and we carry a wide variety of scents,” said Clayton. “10-percent of the sales from these candles benefit Lost Dog Rescue.” “The nice thing about these fragrances is that they smell great, but they’re not overpowering,” added Covet’s Ximena Bryce. At $30 each, the candles have 50-hours of burn time and come in a glass that can be re-used for drink- Hand-poured, soy candles by Sydney Hale ing when the candle is gone. in Purceville, Va., in fragrances like to- For the cook, Clayton also recommends hand- bacco-sandalwood and fir and blue sage stitched kitchen towels by Nesta Home. “They make are available at Covet in Arlington. great hostess gifts and last longer than a bottle of wine,” she said. “No one wants to come to a party empty-handed. You can even wrap a bottle of wine by a woman who survived cancer and had a family in the towel.” The towels are $14 each. who was praying for her kept their prayer intentions SPECIAL CONNECTIONS Wreaths with a nod to nature are among the top in a bowl,” she said. “When the woman found out picks of Lauren Gregory of JT Interiors in Potomac, about it she was touched. The prayer bowls make a Md. “They will dry and turn brown and are made in great gift because they tell the story behind them.” CALENDAR such away that they can be stored and pulled out Limited edition ornaments by Mark Roberts are the again next year,” said Gregory. They range in price choice of John Brown of J Brown and Company in Advertising Deadlines are the previous Thursday. from $60 to $185 and come in natural materials like Old Town Alexandria. “They’re beautiful and they’re pine cones, cinnamon sticks and magnolia leaves. all jeweled and come in colors like red, green white Gregory also recommends electric hurricane lamps, and robin’s egg blue” said Brown. Handcrafted with DECEMBER Publishing which come on a strand and are priced at $103 for a an old-fashioned flair and embellished with crystals, 90-inch strand, and prayer bowls. “They are made the figurine-ornaments are a collector’s item. Wellbeing...... 12/3/14 HomeLifeStyle: Home for the Holidays...12/10/14 Hanukkah begins December 16. ★Holiday Entertainment & Gift Guide II..12/16/14 A+ Camps & Schools...... 12/16/14

CHILDREN’S CONNECTION...... 12/24/14

E-mail [email protected] for more information.

Award- Winning Newspapers & Online 703-778-9431 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Reaching Suburban Washington’s Leading Households • Alexandria Gazette Packet • Fairfax Connection • Oak Hill/Herndon Connection • Arlington Connection • Fairfax Station/Clifton/Lorton Connection • Potomac Almanac • Burke Connection • Great Falls Connection • Reston Connection Gold-rimmed prayer bowls are a gift recommendation by Lauren Gregory of JT Interiors • Centre View • McLean Connection • Springfield Connection • Chantilly Connection • Mount Vernon Gazette • Vienna/Oakton Connection in Potomac, Md. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 ❖ 19 Sports

Photos by Louise Krafft/The Gazette West Potomac junior Jamie Sara Mount Vernon senior Jason Banks finished with 19 points and 17 scored a team-high 18 points rebounds against Mount Vernon on during the Majors’ overtime vic- Tuesday. He forced overtime with a tory against West Potomac on bucket in the closing seconds of Tuesday. regulation. Majors Pull Out OT Win

From Page 24 … [and] I felt like I had to make these shots,” Banks said. “I have a can’t-lose men- Sara was there clean up, scoring on a tality.” putback to tie the game at 56 in the closing Junior forward Tarel Terry scored 15 seconds. points for Mount Vernon, including a trio “I give my kids credit,” West Potomac of 3-pointers. head coach David Houston III said. “I told West Potomac had a pair of strong indi- them we had no timeouts, what we needed vidual efforts go for naught. Cheng, a se- to do to take it to overtime and we did ex- nior guard, knocked down six 3-pointers actly what I thought we could do — go to and scored a game-high 20 points. Sara, a overtime. I think that once we went to over- 6-foot-4 forward, finished with 19 points time we exhaled, and that was a problem.” and a game-high 17 rebounds. While the Wolverines exhaled, the Majors “Chris shot the ball well,” Houston said. regrouped and took care of business after “He’s been doing that for a while. … Jamie’s their fourth-quarter collapse. Mount Vernon really active.” struck first with a 3-pointer by Jason Sophomore guard Khalil Williams Diggins Konadu 16 seconds into the overtime pe- scored 14 points for the Wolverines. riod and led for the remainder of the con- Mount Vernon improved to 3-0, includ- test. ing victories over Centreville and Hampton “I was happy at the way we bounced Christian. The Majors reached the National back,” Wiley said. “[We] came over to the District championship game in 2013 and the bench, [I] had to pick them back up, then Conference 13 final last season, and Wiley we went right out … and pulled the game said they figure to compete with Wakefield out.” and Edison for this year’s conference crown. Senior forward Jason Banks came up Mount Vernon will travel to face Yorktown clutch for Mount Vernon. After scoring three at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 12. points in the first three quarters, Banks, a West Potomac dropped to 1-3 and will team captain, came up with 15 in the fourth host Chantilly at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. quarter and overtime. He finished with a “A month from now, we won’t even look team-high 18 points, including 10 in OT. the same,” Houston said. “A staple of my “I just felt like I’m a captain on this team teams is we get better as the year goes on.” Bulletin Board

From Page 11 Member Dan Storck will host Saturday office Mary Ellen Hook at [email protected] hours. Members of the community are invited to ❖ 10 a.m.-noon at Lorton Library, 9520 Richmond stop by to ask questions or to discuss concerns, Highway, Lorton, in the Conference Room. no appointment necessary. Contact Dan Storck ❖ 12:30-2:30 p.m. at the Sherwood Regional at [email protected] or his assistant Mary Ellen Hook at [email protected] Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria, ❖ in Conference Room 3. 10 a.m.-noon at Lorton Library, 9520 Richmond Highway, Lorton, in the Conference Room. ❖ 12:30-2:30 p.m. at the Sherwood Regional SATURDAY/ JAN. 10 Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria, Office Hours. Fairfax County School Board in Conference Room 3. 20 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com 703-778-9411 Zone 3: • Alexandria Home & Garden Zone 3 Ad Deadline: Classified • Mount Vernon connectionnewspapers.com CONTRACTORS.com Tuesday Noon

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Yard/Construction ANGEL’S TREE REMOVAL GUTTER CLEANING Brush & Yard Debris During a trip back on the train from his station Gutters and Downspouts Cleaned Debris, Garage/ Base- at Fort Eustis in Virginia to New York, he met Small Repairs • Gutter Guards ment Clean Out, Trimming & Topping his wife, Edith Mortenson from Sioux Falls, SD PINNACLE SERVICES Furniture & Appl. Gutters & Hauling who was traveling from New York back to Angeltreeslandscaping-hauling.com lic/ins 703-802-0483 free est. 703-863-1086 Washington after visiting her sister. (703) 590-3137 703-863-1086 email [email protected] 703-582-3709 703-582-3709 web: lawnsandgutters.com 240-603-6182 240-603-6182 Ed and Edie were married shortly after on May Friendly Service with a Friendly Price! Remodeling Bathrooms, Kitchens & Basements 12th, 1951 and settled in Maryland where Edward started working in electrical wholesale Exterior & Interior Repair, Painting, Carpentry, PAVING PAVING Wood Rot, Drywall, All Flooring, Decks at Maurice Electric in Washington D.C. and IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTS Capitol Lighting in Alexandria. In 1961, he •FREE Estimates •EASY To schedule GOLDY BRICK founded Alexandria Lighting & Supply with a •FAST & Reliable Service •NO $$$ DOWN! partner, Irwin Goldberg, at the Powhatan R.N. CONTRACTORS, INC. Handyman Services Available CONSTRUCTION Shopping Center in Alexandria. They moved Remodeling Homes, Flooring, www.pphionfine.com Walkways, Patios, Driveways, the business to 701 N Henry St in 1964 where it Kitchen & Bath, Windows, “If it can be done, we can do it” Flagstone, Concrete still stands today. He credits all his success in Siding, Roofing, Additions & Licensed – Bonded – Insured business to his wife Edie who was the book- FREE ESTIMATES keeper and glue that held the company Patios, Custom Deck, Painting Licensed, Insured, Bonded We Accept All Major Credit Cards LAWN SERVICE LAWN SERVICE together. Licensed, Insured, Bonded • Free Estimates • Class A Lic 703-250-6231 PINNACLE SERVICES, INC. Edward is well remembered for his engaging Phone: 703-887-3827 Fax: 703-830-3849 personality with anyone who came into the E-mail: [email protected] LAWN SERVICE store. He affectionately greeted most custom- TREE SERVICE TREE SERVICE www.rncontractors.com MOWING, TRIMMING, EDGING, ers with “kid” or “babe” and enjoyed learning about other people’s backgrounds. Bagels and MULCHING & TRIM HEDGES cream cheese became a tradition in the show- Friendly Service for a Friendly Price Quality Tree Service & Landscaping room on Saturdays in the “Electric Deli.” R&N Carpentry Reasonable prices. Licensed & insured 703-802-0483703-802-0483 Edward was an excellent businessman and ✦BASEMENTS ✦BATHS ✦KITCHENS Leaf Removal tough teacher. He was preceded in death by Foreclosure specialist/Power washing his wife, Edith in 1998. Edward is survived by MASONRY MASONRY his sister, Dorothy Solomon of Smithtown, NY; ✦Exterior Wood Rot More! son Eric Delman (Danae) of Alexandria, VA, Deck & Fence repair, Screen Porches Gutter Cleaning BRICK AND STONE daughter Ellen Delman Rydell (William) of No jobs too large or small 25 years of experience Alexandria, VA and five grandchildren; Zachary Free est. 37 yrs exp. Licensed, Insured Free estimates Delman of New Haven, CT, Samuel Delman of 703-987-5096 Custom Masonry 703-868-5358 Fairfax, VA, Erika Delman of New York, NY, 703-768-3900 24 Hour Emergency Tree Service William Rydell of Alexandria, VA and Janna Rydell of Arlington, VA. Give me where to stand, www.custommasonry.info and I will move the earth. Patios, Walkways, Stoops, Steps, Driveways Memorial service will be private. In lieu of flow- -Archimedes Repairs & New Installs•All Work Guranteed Quality Tree Service ers, the family requests donations be sent to the Alzheimer’s Foundation (3701 Pender Drive, & Landscaping Suite 400, Fairfax VA 22030) or Capital Caring IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTS (2900 Telestar Court, Falls Church, VA 22042). Reasonable prices. Licensed & insured. Fall Cleanup... Tree removal, topping & pruning, shrubbery trimming, mulching, leaf removal, planting, hauling, gutter cleaning, retaining walls, Employment drainage problems, etc. 25 years of experience – Free estimates BUSINESS OPP BUSINESS OPP 703-868-5358 TELEPHONE TELEPHONE 24 Hour Emergency A great opportunity to A great opportunity to Tree Service WORK AT HOME! WORK AT HOME! [email protected] NATIONAL CHILDRENS CENTER NATIONAL CHILDRENS CENTER No sell! Salary + Bonus + Benefits! No sell! Salary + Bonus + Benefits! www.crescenthomehandyman.com 301-333-1900 301-333-1900 ☎☎ Weekdays 9-4 ☎☎ ☎☎ Weekdays 9-4 ☎☎ Fall Special! 10% off One man with courage makes a majority. -Andrew Jackson www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 ❖ 21 703-778-9411 Zone 3: • Alexandria ClassifiedClassified Zone 3 Ad Deadline: • Mount Vernon Tuesday Noon

26 Antiques 21 Announcements 102 Instruction 102 Instruction 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements

NEWSPAPERS We pay top $ for antique LEGAL NOTICE furniture and mid-century Pursuant to the provision of Danish/modern section 4-1-16 of the code of teak furniture, STERLING, the City of Alexandria, the William A. Banks MEN'S WATCHES, jewelry Alexandria Police Department and costume jewelry, located at 3600 Wheeler Ave- 2601 Londonderry Road paintings/art glass/clocks. nue, Alexandria, VA 22304 is Schefer Antiques @ now in possession of un- Alexandria, VA 22308 703-241-0790. claimed bicycles, mopeds, Email:[email protected] lawn equipment, money, (703) 989-1616 scooters, and other items. All persons having valid claim to CLASSIFIED Do what the property should file a claim Guitar, Tenor Banjo, and Mandolin Instruction to the property with reasona- Public Hearing will be held by the City Council of the City of Alexandria, Virginia, in the you can, with ble proof of ownership or the • Master of Arts in Music Council Chambers, City Hall, City of Alexandria, Virginia, on Saturday, December 13, what you have, items will be sold, destroyed, • Studied with NBC/CBS staff musician 2014, at 9:30 a.m., or as soon as may be heard on the hereinafter described items. For Local… converted or donated. For a where you are. complete listing go to • Member of American Federation of Musicians -Theodore http://alexandriava.gov/police/ & Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia ****** Roosevelt and contact the Police Proper- AN ORDINANCE to amend and reordain Article B (FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE), Chapter 5 •Employment ty Section at (703) 746-6709. (OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES), of Title 2 (GENERAL GOVERNMENT) of the Code the Give me where to stand, City of Alexandria, Virginia, 1981, as amended. •Employees 21 Announcements 21 Announcements This represents a drop in reporting of financial disclosure from annually (January 15) to and I will move the earth. semi-annually (December 15 and June 15). ABC LICENSE -Archimedes •Services La Tasca Inc trading as La ABC LICENSE ****** Tasca, 607 King St. Alexan- Stomping Ground, LLC trading AN ORDINANCE to amend and reordain Sheet No. 058.02 of the “Official Zoning Map, as Stomping Ground, 2309 Mt •Entertainment dria, VA 22314. The above es- Alexandria, Virginia,” adopted by Section 1-300 (OFFICIAL ZONING MAP AND DISTRICT tablishment is applying to the Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301. The above establish- 26 Antiques 26 Antiques BOUNDARIES), of the City of Alexandria Zoning Ordinance, by rezoning the property at VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF ment is applying to the 100 South Pickett Street from CRMU-M/Commercial Residential Mixed Use (Medium) •Announcements ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF CONTROL (ABC) for a Wine with Proffer to CRMU-M/Commercial Residential Mixed Use (Medium) with an amended ALCHOLIC BEVERAGE Falls Church AntiqueS Proffer in accordance with the said zoning map amendment approved by city council on •Real Estate and Beer On and Off Premises CONTROL (ABC) for a Wine license to sell or manufacture and Beer on Premises license November 15, 2014, as Rezoning No. 2014-0006 for the Pickett’s Place development. alcoholic beverages. Francis to sell or manufacture Best Kept Secret of The Metro Area! The proposed ordinance accomplishes the final adoption of Rezoning No. 2014-0006 to •Cars McDonald,Vice President alcoholic beverages. Unique collection of antiques and collectibles, rezone the property at 100 South Pickett Street from CRMU-M/Commercial Residential NOTE: Objections to the issu- Erik Dorn Member including furniture, jewelry, glassware, pottery, Mixed Use (Medium) with proffer to CRMU-M/Commercial Residential Mixed Use ance of this license must be NOTE: Objections to the issu- (Medium) with an amended Proffer approved by city council on November 15, 2014 for •Trucks ance of this license must be sterling silver, paintings, prints and more! submitted to ABC no later that Fun home and gift ideas! the Pickett’s Place development. 30 days from the publishing submitted to ABC no later that date of the first of two required 30 days from the publishing Christmas Shop Now Open! •Vans date of the first of two required ****** newspaper legal notices. Falls Church Antique Co. objections should be regis- newspaper legal notices. AN ORDINANCE to amend and reordain Sheet No. 074.03 of the “Official Zoning Map, •RV’s objections should be regis- 250W. Broad St. Falls Church, Va • 703-2419642 Alexandria, Virginia,” adopted by Section 1-300 (OFFICIAL ZONING MAP AND DISTRICT tered at www.abc.virginia.gov tered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200. or 800-552-3200. BOUNDARIES), of the City of Alexandria Zoning Ordinance, by rezoning the property at •Boats 1323 Wilkes Street from RB/Townhouse Zone to CRMU-L/ Commercial Residential 21 Announcements 21 Announcements Mixed Use (Low) with Proffer in accordance with the said zoning map amendment •Pets 21 Announcements 21 Announcements approved by city council on November 15, 2014 for the West-Parc Townhouse Project. OBITUARY OF The proposed ordinance accomplishes the final adoption of Rezoning NO. 2014-0004 to NOTICE: Sale of Dental Practice;On November 14, 2014, the CAPT. ROBERT(BOB) PORTER RICE USN rezone the property at 1323 Wilkes Street from RB/Townhouse zone to CRMU- •Yard Sales assets of George S.Pugh DDS,Ltd., at 8492 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria, Va., were sold to Woodlawn Family Dentistry, Inc., (RET.) L/Commercial Residential Mixed Use (Low) with Proffer in accordance with the said zon- owned by Dr. Monique Nguyen. If any existing patient, or rep- ing map amendment approved by city council on November 15 for the West-Parc •Crafts resentative, would like their records sent to another dentist, or Townhouse Project. provided to the patient, please contact our office at 703-780- 3300, before December 30, 2014. As usual, there will be a •Hobbies small charge for these copies, based on the number of pages. ****** AN ORDINANCE authorizing the property owner of 906 First Street to construct and •And More! maintain an encroachment for a porch overhang at that address in the City of 21 Announcements 21 Announcements Alexandria, Virginia. The proposed ordinance permits the property owner at 906 First Street to construct and LEGAL NOTICE maintain a porch that overhangs the adjacent public sidewalk right-of-way. For All Sealed proposals for the City of Alexandria per specifications will be received in the office of the Purchasing Division until the ****** date and time designated as follows: AN ORDINANCE to amend and reordain the Master Plan of the City of Alexandria, Your Title: Request for Proposals No. 00000480, Consulting Virginia, by adopting and incorporating therein the amendment heretofore approved by Services for Review of Targeted Reimbursement Processes and Procedures Closing Date and Time: January 8, 2015, 4:00 city council to such master plan as Master Plan Amendment No. MPA 2014-0009 and no p.m., prevailing local time. other amendments, and to repeal all provisions of this said master plan as may be Advertising For general inquiries contact Cynthia Davis, Contract Specialist inconsistent with such amendment. at 703.746.3921. The proposed ordinance accomplishes the final adoption of Master Plan Amendment The City of Alexandria reserves the right to reject any and all No. MPA 2014-0009 to transfer density to Hoffman Block 2 from Hoffman Blocks 4 and proposals, cancel this solicitation, and to waive any informali- Needs… Robert Rice, 82 passed away peacefully at his home in 9B and to increase building height, as approved by the City Council on November 15, ties or irregularities in procedure. THE CITY REQUIRES ITS Alexandria, VA on November 19, 2014 after a long struggle CONTRACTORS TO BE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOY- with COPD. 2014. ERS. Bob was born March 5, 1932 in Lawrence, MA. He is the son ****** of the late Willard and Ethel Rice of So. Yarmouth, MA. He is PUBLIC HEARING and consideration of the Report on the recommended priorities and It Works. survived by his wife of 49 years Betty (Georgia) Rice of Alex- 101 Computers 101 Computers process for implementing recommended changes to Alexandria Fund for Human andria; his brother George and sister-in law Moira of Osprey, Services. FL; niece Kimberly and her husband Robert Hofeldt with Week daughter from Manchester, MA; and nephew Bob and ****** his wife Jennifer and their 7 children from Steubenville, OH. PUBLIC HEARING and consideration of adoption of an implementation plan for HDI COMPUTER SOLUTIONS Bob was a career Naval Jet Pilot who retired as Captain after Alexandria Public Art Policy. After Week. JENNIFER SMITH ❖ Serving the Area Since 1995 27 years which included five tours of duty in Vietnam, the last one as Commanding Officer of VF-111, flying the world famous ****** ➣ Speed up Slow Computers F4B attack jet aircraft aboard the USS Coral Sea (CVA-43). THE PUBLIC IS ADVISED THAT AMENDMENTS OR ADDITIONS MAY BE MADE TO ➣ Troubleshooting During his lengthy career Bob flew a total of 3347 flight hours 703 and had 687 Carrier Landings which included 315 Combat Mis- PROPOSED ORDINANCES WITHOUT FURTHER PUBLICATION. IT IS RECOMMENDED ➣ Virus Removal sions in Vietnam. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying THAT PERSONS INTERESTED IN ANY OF THESE ORDINANCES OBTAIN FREE FULL- ➣ Computer Setup Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal "24" Strike Force TEXT COPIES FROM THE CITY CLERK AT CITY HALL. JACKIE M. HENDERSON, MMC, 917-6400 Numeral with 2 Stars, the Navy Commendation Medal with CITY CLERK (571) 265-2038 Combat "V" Navy Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Com- mendation, Good Conduct Awards, the National Defense Serv- [email protected] ice Medal, Navy Occupation (Europe) and the Vietnam Service Medal. He is a member of the Caterpillar Club. Bob, consid- Place ered one of the best jet pilots in the Navy, was invited to fly with the famous Blue Angels but instead he opted to take his 5th tour of duty in Vietnam as squadron leader. Your In addition to his flying time, for two years in 1963-1965 Bob was the Aide/Flag Lieutenant to Vice Admiral John T. Hayward in HI. In 1967 he attended the Naval War College in Newport, Ad RI. In 1968 he attended the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA and in 1973 the National War College, followed by staff assignments in the Pentagon. Bob and Betty have Today! lived in Alexandria since 1974 where Bob had a side activity as a docent at the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum where he could provide his great depth of military knowledge to visitors. Bob had a wonderful sense of humor and he truly loved life. He will be sorely missed by his family and his many, many friends. to your community Full military service and burial will be held at a future date at Arlington National Cemetery. 22 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com POTOMAC RIVER 3750 Jefferson Davis Hwy. Alexandria, VA 22305

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You Have Saturdays Off That’s Exactly Why We Don’t!

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 ❖ 23 Sports Majors Pull Out OT Win

Along with his dunks, Jones, a 6-foot-5 forward, Jones’ dunks excite crowd, scored nine points during the fourth quarter and overtime. He finished with 14 points and five re- Banks scores 10 in OT. bounds. “[Jones] is our senior captain and we look to him By Jon Roetman for everything,” Mount Vernon head coach John The Gazette Wiley said. “… [Jones] is who we look to for guid- ance, leadership and today he came through and had ount Vernon senior Earnest Jones some good drives and really picked us up with some threw down a two-handed dunk mid- nice dunks.” Mway through the first quarter of Mount Vernon appeared to have the game in hand Tuesday’s matchup with rival West during the fourth quarter, when a pair of Jones free Potomac, igniting the Majors’ home crowd into a throws gave the Majors a 55-48 lead with 32.6 sec- frenzy. onds remaining. Jones again went above the rim The Wolverines, however, con- in the second quarter, but this tinued to battle. dunk attempt went awry, leading “I think that once West Potomac guard Chris to a transition 3-pointer for West Cheng buried his sixth 3-pointer Potomac and a seven-point Wol- we went to overtime of the evening, cutting Mount verine lead. we exhaled, and that Vernon’s lead to four with 21.5 The game would go to overtime seconds on the clock. After a Ma- and Jones, a senior captain, made was a problem.” jors free throw, junior forward the most of his final highlight op- Jamie Sara scored for the Wolver- portunity. — West Potomac boys’ basket- ines, cutting the deficit to three. Jones’s dunk with 1:40 remain- ball coach David Houston III West Potomac stole the ensuing ing in the extra period sparked an inbound pass and Andre Copeland 8-0 run and the Mount Vernon boys’ basketball team went to the free-throw line with 6.4 seconds remain- remained undefeated with a 72-63 victory over West ing. The senior bounced in the first attempt, but Potomac. missed the second. The Wolverines grabbed the of- Photo by Louise Krafft/The Gazette “It’s great to throw one down in front of the crowd,” fensive rebound and missed a putback attempt, but Mount Vernon senior Earnest Jones throws down a dunk Jones said. “It felt pretty good. I was glad I was able in the first quarter of the Majors’ matchup with West to get the crowd hyped and my team hyped.” See Majors, Page 20 Potomac on Tuesday at Mount Vernon High School.

24 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ December 11-17, 2014 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com