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b Mark Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A Connection Newspaper o Har ris October 6, 2016 t b f r reasts om Al o tr ex ev oke in andri h en th a c t tha e 50- omes P t w 54 up Sterli as hel age g for a ng on d at t roup. ir dur Sept he Cla Harri ing th . 16. ude M s won e 50 ww oore a go yard Lwo.Ccon Recr ld me aln eMcti eatio dal eodniaNew n Ce in th Cospnape nter e nercs.tcoi m in on LLC

o M nlionunt e a Vtern wownw Ga .czoette nn e❖c Se tinoionr L neivwing spFaapll 2 ers0.c16 Split Over o❖m 1 Meals Tax Text prepared by Board of Supervisors and FCPS board chairs. By Tim Peterson FCPS Superintendent Karen The Gazette Garza laid out FY2018 required expenditure assumptions totalling Photos by Gerald A. Fill/The Gazette here continues to be divi- over $58 million. Enrollment Tsion, at least among a sev growth, retirement rate increases eral members of the and health insurance rate in- Fairfax County Board of Supervi- creases were among those costs sors and School Board, on whether Garza said “are going to fluctuate voters should approve a referen- but we have no choice but to pay.” dum allowing the government to The total nearly matches up with levy up to a four percent additional the standard three percent in- tax on prepared foods and bever- crease in transfer from the Board ages at restaurants, as well as of Supervisors. That would leave ready-to-eat foods from grocery out projected compensation needs and convenience stores. including a planned step increase Following presentations fore- in teachers’ salaries — a $44 mil- casting FY2018 budgets for both lion change alone from FY 2017 Past and present political and community leaders instrumental in preserving the FCPS and Fairfax County, Board of —and teacher scale implementa- Mount Vernon High School buildings and grounds include former Mount Vernon Supervisor Gerald Hyland, current Mount Vernon Supervisor Dan Storck, Mount Supervisors chair Sharon Bulova tion —a $44.3 million increase. Vernon Planning Commissioner Earl Flanagan, community leader Lois Passman, introduced a statement on the Supervisor John Cook (R- and Mount Vernon District School Board member Karen Corbett Sanders. “meals tax” prepared jointly with Braddock) thanked Garza for “the FCPS School Board chair Sandy cleanest fall presentation” he’s Evans. seen in his time on the board. “This Fairfax County claims the tax tells us what we need to know,” would raise an estimated $100 he said. “If the meals tax passes, Back to the Future million in a year, of which 70 per- you get it, if it doesn’t, you don’t.” decessor, retired Supervisor Gerry Hyland. cent would be directed to FCPS There was confusion initially Original Mount Vernon Hyland, present for the dedication, expressed and their effort to make teachers’ over whether the statement would his satisfaction that the school will finally be con- salaries more competitive with the be issued on behalf of both boards High School reopens for verted to a variety of local public uses. market and surrounding school and therefore reflect their collec- Mount Vernon Planning Commissioner Earl districts. The other 30 percent tive views. It was pointed out nei- teens after 30 years. Flanagan was also present. Through his efforts would go to other county services ther board had voted on the many years ago, along with community leader Lois such as public safety, mental statement’s content. By Gerald A. Fill Passman and Ruth Lambert, former president of health, libraries and parks. See Meals Tax, Page 18 The Gazette Mount Zephyr Civic Association, they were suc- cessful in the 1980s to keep the school in county On Meals Tax he Original Mount Vernon High School control. There were those in the community who Gym is once again going to be used by Joint statement from Chairman that its share, estimated to be almost wanted to sell the building and land, but they were Sharon Bulova, Fairfax County $70 million in new funding, will be used Tteens, only this time as a part of the not successful. From 1985 to 2016, the Islamic Board of Supervisors, and Chair- primarily to address teachers’ salaries, existing Teen Center at the South See Back to the Future, Page 6 man Sandy Evans, Fairfax County which have lagged behind neighboring County Government Center. The gym is located School Board: communities. across the road from the South County Govern- “Almost $30 million would be avail- “The meals tax is intended to diver- able to address general county services ment Center and completes the current Teen Cen- sify county revenue and to supplement or capital improvements such as in pub- ter with a full-size gym and basketball courts. and not supplant support for school and lic safety, mental health services, Plans are underway to resurface the gym floor county services. libraries, and parks, as well as providing and make other improvements. The first day of its “The meals tax would create a new for property tax relief. revenue source, paid by diners in Fairfax “Note: the meals tax, if approved, opening is Oct. 11. County who are county residents, tour- would not be levied in the Town of As part of the long-term strategy to re-use and ists, and workers who live in Clifton, or in the Towns of Herndon and revitalize the original high school, the next step neighboring jurisdictions. Vienna, where a meals tax has already will be to open an early child education center. “The School Board has committed been implemented.” Long-term, the revitalization goal is to develop the

school into a multi use community center with 10/7/16 Requested in home in Requested

both public and private uses. material.

At Saturday’s dedication of the gym, Mount Time-sensitive

Postmaster: Vernon Supervisor Dan Storck pledged his com- Attention

Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan mitment to work with the community and county #482 Permit

Storck tries out the basketball court at VA Alexandria, to get the most out of the redevelopment of the PAID

the Teen Center. Postage U.S. school and realize the long-term goals of his pre- STD PRSRT www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette Editor Steven Mauren News 703-778-9415 or [email protected]

Photos Contributed

Center, state Sen. Adam Ebbin (D-30) speaks at the Oct. 2 Friends of More than 100 members of the Friends of Dyke Marsh group, supporters Dyke Marsh 40th anniversary celebration. Rear, from left, are Del. and elected officials spent the afternoon at River Farm in Alexandria on Mark Levine (D-45), Del. Mark Sickles (D-43), state Sen. Scott Surovell Sunday Oct. 2, celebrating the Friends group’s 40th anniversary. (D-36) and Del. Paul Krizek (D-44). Friends of Dyke Marsh Celebrate 40th Anniversary “It could be our Everglades.” ore than 100 members of the Friends of Dyke Marsh Mgroup, supporters and elected officials spent the afternoon at River Farm in Alexandria on Sunday Oct. 2, celebrating the Friends group’s 40th anniversary. The celebration also recognized the Cen- tennial of the National Park Service and restoration of Dyke Marsh. “One part of Dyke Marsh is 2,000 years old. In some ways, it’s hidden. Thousands drive through it and do not realize they are Members of the Northern Virginia Mountain Dulcimers perform at in a national park, that the marsh is there, River Farm on Oct. 2 for the Friends of Dyke Marsh 40th Anniver- its value or that it’s disappearing,” Friends sary celebration. of Dyke Marsh president and Mount Vernon resident Glenda Booth said in her remarks. Booth said for the first time, Friends of $25 million for restoration,” Booth From left, National Park Service superin- “It’s hard for advocates to cheer for a Dyke Marsh haven’t seen the marsh’s sig- said. “This funding is a great start.” tendent Alexcy Romero, Friends of Dyke swamp,” she continued. “Dyke Marsh in nature bird the marsh wren for the last two The Friends group’s message to Marsh president Glenda Booth and George Washington’s day was called ‘Hell springs. The U.S. Geological Survey, she the National Park Service and Corps Michael J. Bean, Principal Deputy Assis- Hole.’ But we cheer. It’s not Yellowstone, said, predicts the marsh will be gone by of Engineers is: “Get started.” tant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and it’s not the Grand Canyon, but it is our little 2035 unless restoration gets underway. For more information, visit Parks, U.S. Department of Interior, slice of wilderness right here in suburbia. “Interior Secretary Sally Jewell came to www.fodm.org. present a photo of the marsh wren to When restored, it could be our Everglades.” Dyke Marsh in October 2014 to announce — Tim Peterson the National Park Service. Service To Celebrate Joshua Owusu’s Life oshua Owusu, a sixth grade student Program here at Stratford Landing. If you family during this difficult time. Jat Stratford Landing Elementary did not have the pleasure of encountering Aldersgate Church has set up a dona- School, lost his battle with brain can- Joshua, he was a happy, charismatic child, tion fund to provide for a funeral and cer on Tuesday, Sept. 26. A celebration of whose smile could brighten anyone’s day. burial for Josh. Please consider contrib- his life will be held Saturday, Oct. 8, 11 a.m., He was loved by all who knew him. uting: https://igg.me/at/3Nok3O6ZyQc.” at Aldersgate Church, 1301 Collingwood “Joshua had a seizure at home, which To sign up for donating reception food, Drive. A reception will immediately follow caused him to be hospitalized and from go to in Wesley Hall. Burial will be in Mount Com- which he was unable to recover. A few staff www.SignUpGenius.com/go/ fort Cemetery, 6600 S. Kings Highway at members who worked closely with Joshua 20F094EADA92CA1FA7-joshs. 2:30 p.m. In an announcement of the fu- and his family and were able to sit with the To send condolences to the family, go neral, Maureen Marshall, SLES principal, family to say their goodbyes, as well as of- to wrote: “Joshua joined the Stratford Land- fer support in the next steps of the process. http://www.everlywheatley.com/obitu- ing community from Groveton Elementary As a community, I know many are eager and aries/Joshua-Owusu-5702658815/#!/ Joshua Owusu School as part of the Advanced Academics wondering what can be done to support the Obituary. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 ❖ 3 OPEN SUNDAY 1-4 PM COMING SOON OPEN SUNDAY 1-4 PM Old Town $998,000 328 N. Pitt Street. Garage plus driveway parking at this wonderfully renovated 3 level brick end-town Pentagon City (Arlington) $1,185,000 home. Patio & Alex/Del Ray $924,000 Fireplace. 1300 Army Navy Drive, PH-2 206 E. Braddock Rd. Just steps from the Braddock Rd. Metro, this . One of a kind penthouse unit 3 BRS + 2.5 classic Cape Cod has five bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths. Updates include overlooking the City skyline. This 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath unit features BATHS. beautiful marble floored foyer, separate dining room, gourmet kitchen Diann recent roof, window replacements, gas furnace and kitchen with stainless with island, den with custom built-ins, spacious bedrooms with outdoor Hicks Carlson appliances and granite counters.The rear patio area is fenced and ready access & a breathtaking 740 sq ft rooftop terrace. Two garage parking 703-628-2440 for outdoor dining! Other bonuses include a fireplace, large rooms with spots convey. Minutes to Pentagon City Metro, shops, and restaurants. hardwood floors, a finished basement and off-street parking for two cars. Jennifir Birtwhistle 703-835-1256 Mary Hurlbut & Michael Seith 703-980-9595

PRICE REDUCTION!

OPEN SUNDAY 2-4 PM Alexandria $425,000 Alexandria $799,999 West Springfield $550,000 6301 Edsall Rd #313. The Isabella at Monticello Mews displays 400 LaVerne Ave. Fantastic Del Ray home. 6973 Conservation Dr. Lovely 3 level colonial in sought after Orange traditional elegance one would expect in a condominium home. Beautiful 3 bed, 2 bath, fireplace, gorgeous Hunt Estates,Springfield .4 bedrooms,2.5 baths,car port and Careful attention to detail results in an open floor plan that hardwoods throughout. Plus a separate addressed 1 landscaped backyard with wooded view. Freshly painted and includes two large bedrooms, two baths, a balcony overlooking bed, 1 bath, 1 den apartment upstairs. The perfect gleaming hard wood floors.West Springfield school district. the pool with treetop views, hardwood floors and two parking income producing home. Commuter express bus to Pentagon and close to Springfield Metro. spaces. This premier residence shows true pride of ownership. Michelle Zelsman 202-390-8714 Dawn Smith Gurganus 571-237-6151 Cary Garcia 703-505-9513

JUST REDUCED Alexandria OPEN SUNDAY 1-4 PM $339.000 7030 Stanford Dr. Three levels, semi detached, 3bd, 2ba located on a quiet cul de sac, driveway, backing to woods.Hardwood floors, updated kitchen, newer windows, home warranty.Huge fully Alexandria $319,000 fenced backyard for 5904 Mount Eagle Dr #206. Beautifully renovated 2 bedroom 2 Fairlington $387,500 entertaining and bath condo in gated community with tons of amenities! Newer 3812 Ingalls Ave. BEAUTIFUL! Bright open floor plan w/tons expansion.Conveniently kitchen cabinets, stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, of space, light & storage. GRANITE, new cabinets, flooring, located close to major upgraded baths, crown molding, newer windows, sunroom, and doors. ALL NEW WINDOWS. New HVAC. Delightful patio. roads, library, shops, storage. Community offers brand new gym w/ sauna! Tennis, Pristine home. Updated baths(added cabinets & counters) metro, bus service. bowling, indoor/outdoor pools, rec room, cafe, market, dry Gleaming wood floors. Xtra lg master.Closet organizers-ELFA. Elvira Jakovac cleaning, salon, and shuttle to metro. Home Warranty Included! Julie Hall 703-786-3634 571-405-8058 Patricia Fuentes (202) 246-4666

COMING SOON

Alexandria City/West End $274,800 200 North Pickett Street, Unit #612. Rare opportunity to bargain buy in prestigious Hallmark building! Bring your ideas--make it your own. LARGE Alexandria $239,900 Alexandria House $TBD 2BR/2BA-1295 sq.ft. HUGE rooms, walk-in closet. Full-size W/D. Large balcony- 1100 Quaker Hill Drive. Beautiful Remodeled 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath 400 Madison #1606. The Largest 1 Br, 1.5 Ba Condo electric grills OK! Great garage+visitor parking. Pool, tennis, exercise, party with Office Area. Bamboo Wood Floors, Soft Close Kitchen doors, Offers An Open Kitchen, New Hardwood Floors, A Marble room. Commuter dream-bus stop in front-easy Metro. Beatley Library, creek Granite on Counters and Bar. Sliding door to Patio which opens to Master In Suite Bath With Walkin Closet And All The and park across street. Foxchase Shops including 24 hour Harris Teeter and Court Yard. Pet Friendly. Walk to Restaurants and Shops. Inside Amenities Of Alexandria House. One Garage Parking And new Aldi one block too! Come see or call me at 703-407-6481. Beltway,1 Block to All Buses and Less than 1 Mile to Metro. Extra Storage Convey. Barbara Rosen, 703-407-6481, www.bxrosen.com Mary Smith 703-626-9207 Lib Willey 703-362-7206

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4 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Rex Reiley RE/MAX Allegiance 703-768-7730 Warning [email protected] A sign set up on Photo by Nicholas Lindsey/The Gazette Sept. 29 on Fort OPEN Alex/Riverside Ests $499,000 Hunt Road at SUNDAY 3400 Ramsgate Terrace Belle View Charming, beautiful, updated 4BR, NEW 3BA Split on a large lot in popular Shopping Cen- LISTING Riverside Terrace – updates: ter warned Kitchen, all 3 baths, windows, residents of doors, siding, HWH, deck, and A/C. Driveway resurfaced this expected heavy month-large laundry room with rains. lots of storage-wonderful commu- nity and commute along Potomac River to Old Town (N) 15 mins, Ntl Airport 25 mins, 30 mins to Pentagon, and 5 mins (S) to Ft. Belvoir. Alex/Riverside Estates $639,900 8522 Wagon Wheel Road Absolute gorgeous 4BR, 3BA OPEN expanded & updated Split on large beautiful lot with fenced backyard. SUNDAY 1–4 Two 16x14 ft. additions, Office off the MBR and Sun Rm off the Living rm. Updates include: roof, HWH, 400 Evacuated from River Towers HVAC, baths, kit (floor, cabinets, apps & counters)-Freshly painted airfax County firefighters evacuated 400 resi- most residents were allowed to return to their homes interior and exterior Approximately 2900 fin sq ft plus 2 car garage. 5 mins to Fdents from one of three River Towers condo Sunday night. Ft. Belvoir, 15 mins to Old Town, 28 min s to Ntl Airport, 33 mins to Pentagon. buildings Sunday afternoon Oct. 2 following Those families displaced by the damage went to a Alex/Riverside Estates $498,500 reports there was structural damage and residents shelter temporarily but then relocated to stay with 3424 Ramsgate Terrace Lovely 4BR, 2.5BA home w/garage felt the building shake. friends. OPEN in wonderful Mt. Vernon neighbor- The evacuation took place around 1:30 p.m. Sun- The building management company said they will hood. Updated - open kitchen day. bring a private accompany onsite to assess the dam- SUNDAY 1–4 w/granite & SS. Refinished hard- wood floors. Private sauna in LL. Fire & Rescue said investigators confirmed 180 age and begin work to shore up the property. 2 Fireplaces. HVAC 2013, Roof condos are damaged, of which 32 have severe dam- For more information and safety tips, visit the 2008, Windows 2010, Kitchen age and were deemed “uninhabitable.” Fairfax County Dept. of Fire & Rescue on Facebook 2015. Large deck off of the kitchen & stone patio. Fenced bkyd. Great location close to Fort Belvoir The shaking was caused by a column shifting sev- @fairfaxcountyfirerescue or www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ & GW Pkwy for scenic commuting to DC. eral inches; cracks then formed in the walls and brick fr/, and the Fairfax County Office of Emergency Alex/Hollin Hall $619,900 crumbled from the building’s exterior. Management at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/oem/. 8011 Jackson Road Aside from the 32 units with significant damage, — Tim Peterson Beautifully renovated and expanded rambler w/over 1700+ sq. ft. of stunning one-level con- Bulletin Board temporary living space. 3BRs, 2.5BAs. Gourmet kitchen opens Email announcements to Register online at www.fairfax 780-7518 for a 15-20 minute to vaulted Great Room w/stone [email protected] county.gov/olderadults. Click on appointment, which could result in a fireplace. Gorgeous owner’s Caregiver Seminars under Hot Topics longer subsequent meeting during suite. Beautiful fenced bkyd SECOND WEDNESDAYS or call 703-324-5205, TTY 711. the work week, if needed. He may w/patio, fire pit, shed. Located in Waynewood Elementary district, & meet with walk-ins as time permits short walk to Hollin Hall shopping center. Art Making as Meditation. 7-8:30 FRIDAY/OCT. 7 p.m. St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, between appointments. 8531 Riverside Road. Art making as School Open House. 9-11 a.m. at Poet Swap. 1 p.m. at the Mary Alex/Riverside Est. $649,900 meditation can be an active form of Burgundy Farm Country Day School, Washington Library, 6614 Fort Hunt 8425 Mt. Vernon Highway contemplative practice. Each session 3700 Burgundy Road, Alexandria. Road. Henry Hart and Bill Glose will Beautiful home w/over 4000 fin sq begins with a short reading and a School serves pre-kindergarten to 8th give readings. Free and open to the ft & 2 lvl addn plus 600+ sq ft brief introduction to materials. RSVP grade. Childcare available. Call 703- public. Email mikemaggio@ bsmt in lovely Riverside Estates. not necessary for attendance, but 329-6968 to RSVP or schedule a mikemaggio.net for more. Great Rm on ML w/gas FP & wet helpful for planning purposes. Call personal tour. Visit bar. Adjacent Family Rm w/wood 703-360-4220, email www.burgundyfarm.org for more. TUESDAY/OCT. 11 burning FP. An office adjoins the Coffee Social. 10:30 a.m. at Sherwood gorgeous 20’x32’ MBR addn [email protected] SATURDAY/OCT. 8 or visit www.staidansepiscopal.com/ Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood w/vaulted Douglas Fir ceiling & Center-for-Spiritual-Deepening. Supervisor Dan Storck holds open Hall Lane. Mount Vernon At Home skylights. Library/studio (32’x 12’) on upper lvl addition. Both HVAC sys- office hours at the Lorton Library (9- will host a coffee social for the tems, HWH & roof replcd 2011. 1 mile to GW Pkwy. Close to Ft. Belvoir. THURSDAY/OCT. 6 11:30 a.m.) and at the Mount Vernon community to learn about aging in Alex/Collingwood Ests. $609,000 Caregiver Seminar. 7-8:30 p.m. at Governmental Center office (12:30-3 place. Membership and volunteer 1120 Anesbury Lane p.m.) on the second Saturday of each Martha Washington Library, 6614 opportunities. RSVP at info@mount Lovely, updated, 3 BR, 3 BA Fort Hunt Road. Fairfax County’s free month (except August). Call 703- vernonathome.org or 703-303-4060. Caregiver Seminar/Webinar Series UNDER Rambler on a beautiful lot in Waynewood Elementary district! features experts in Medicare, CONTRACT dementia care, mental health and Upgrades include: kitchen, 3 wellness, nutrition and elder law. The Blessing of the Animals baths, windows, painting, and brand new concrete driveway. at Messiah Lutheran Church Full basement, half finished, Dig Pink Rally and room for a 4th & 5th bedroom. 8 mins to Old Town (N), and 10 on Sunday Oct. 9th 2016 mins to Fort Belvoir (S). Call Rex for more information. A Dig Pink Rally, supporting breast cancer research, is being at 10:00 am in our tent on the lawn Alex./Mt. Vernon Grove $3,000 sponsored by West Potomac High 4112 Scotland Road All creature's great Lovely 4 BR, 3 BA Split in the School Volleyball, 6500 Quander and small are welcome. heart of Mt. Vernon on a spa- Road, at its Oct. 13 games against RENTAL cious .33 acre lot. Bright, light- Mount Vernon: 5 p.m. (Fresh- Messiah Lutheran Church (ELCA) filled rooms w/beautiful hdwd man), 6 p.m. (JV), and 7:15 p.m. 6510 Fort Hunt Road, floors throughout main & lower levels. Large family room w/wet (Varsity). The rally will include a Alexandria, VA 22307 bar & 4th BR & 3rd bath on Memory/Honor Wall, bake sale, For more information please call lower level. In–ground sprinkler system – 5 mins to Ft. Belvoir, 30 to and a Ft. Hunt volleyball players Ntl Airport, 28 minutes to Ntl Airport. No smoking. serving contest. The volleyball 703-765-5003 teams welcome everyone to cheer or visit our website on the local high school players E-mail: [email protected] • Website: messiahelca.org and wear pink. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 ❖ 5 News

www.partnersinrealestate.com Licensed Brokers in DC, VA and MD David W. Spires Marjorie J. Spires Robert B. Burroughs 703-765-3500 703-765-3500 703-765-3500 Cell: 703-850-4256 Cell: 703-472-7713 Cell: 703-856-2426 OPEN SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9, 1–4 P.M.

Directions: G.W. Parkway South from Old Town, right on Tulane & follow Partners Signs. Photo by Gerald A. Fill/The Gazette 1205 Belle Vista Drive $1,200,000 •BETTER THAN NEW!!! • 4 minutes to Old Town • Total RENOVATION in OPEN Villamay • 5 BRs • 3 Luxury Baths • 3,300+ sq.ft. • Unique, Stacked Stone throughout • Hardwoods both levels • New Deck • Large Inground POOL • OPEN FLOOR PLAN • Chef’s Kitchen w/Wolf, Sub Zero, Bosch, NEW Casement windows • Privacy, backing to 18 acre PARK • Main Level Laundry hookup • New Landscaping/lighting • Irrigation System • Huge 640 sq.ft. 2-Car Garage!

1105 Villamay Boulevard $700,000 Students and parents attend the Teen Center dedication on Saturday, • Marvelous Views All Year Oct. 1. • Generous Entry Foyer with Wide Staircase ascends to Beautiful Main OPEN Level • Lovely Formal Living and Dining Rooms • Light, Bright Galley Kitchen w/Breakfast area • Sunroom Back to the Future Addition at Rear Elevation • Large Family Room with Wet Bar From Page 1 which described the possible uses and rein- • Wraparound Decking for added River Views • Oversized Two Car Saudi Academy leased the school. The forced past support that it be retained as a Garage • Hardwoods • Two Masonry conclusion of their lease of the school this community center. She promised to work Fireplaces • Whole House Generator year meant that the Mount Vernon and Lee with the community to realize the variety 2717 Carter Farm Court communities would finally realize the pro- of community, education, and other uses for $475,000 jected multiple uses envisioned by former the buildings and grounds — on over 40 and current community and political lead- acres of property. •4 Bedrooms • 3.5 Baths • All New ers. Also present at the dedication were OPEN Stainless Steel & Granite Kitchen • Hardwoods on 3 Levels • Sliders to The opening of the Teen Center and the Heather Dietz, Fairfax County project man- Deck overlooking woodlands • Lower near future opening of the early child edu- ager for the redevelopment of the school, Level Rec Room with Wet Bar cation center is the first step in the long- and Palace Washington, director of the Teen walks out to Fenced rear Patio and private woods • LL Den/BR with term redevelopment of the property. Also Center. Full Bath. Directions: Sherwood present at the dedication was Mount Vernon The Re-utilization Task Force Report is Hall Lane, South on Holland, L School Board member Karen Corbett Sand- available for public review through Storck’s on Tiswell, R on Carter Farm Ct to 2717 on Left. ers who served as the recent Re-utilization office and Heather Dietz’ office in the Task Force chair that prepared a report county, and online through their respective 6954 Westhampton Drive offices. $335,000 •Three Level Townhouse • Three Bedrooms • Two Baths • Refinished Hardwoods on Two Levels • Freshly Painted • New Kitchen Appliances • Fenced Yard • Large Storage Shed • What more could you want? Directions: Rt. 1, East on Popkins, Left on Davis, Left on Westhampton to 6954.

116 Gretna Green Court $499,000 • Beautiful 3-Level, All-Brick Townhome Photo Contributed • MOVE-IN READY • 2 Master Suites • 2 Full & 2 Half Baths • New Carpet • Main-Level Hardwoods • Granite & Stainless Eat-in Kitchen • Formal Step-down Living Room w/Fireplace & French Doors • Lower Level Family Room w/Custom Wet Bar, Fireplace, Recessed Lighting & French Doors to Private Fenced Patio • Lower Level 3rd Bedroom/Den/Office with Built-ins & Half Bath. Directions: 395 to Duke Street East, R. on Picket, R. on Valley Forge, L. on Gretna Green Ct. to 116. Fall Festival — Unleashed 7910 Andrus Road, Suite 6 Westgrove Pack, the community sponsors of the Westgrove Off $3,000 per Month Leash Dog Park, will celebrate the success of the park with a festival •1224 sq ft of Entry-Level Office Space • First and fund-raising launch on Nov. 5, 1-4 p.m., to which all dog enthu- Floor - Americans with Disabilities Act siasts — and those few who still need convincing — are invited. The compliant • Perfect for doctor’s office • Option to expand 1200+ more sf (also ADA) • dog park is at 6801 Fort Hunt Road, Belle View, south of Belle View Multiple offices and reception area • Two Elementary School. “Fall Festival – Unleashed” will feature a chili furnished exam rooms • Records Room • Kitchenette • Storage Closet • Convenient and cook-off, a dog agility demonstration by Mike Tomai, a dog costume plentiful parking • Close to Mount Vernon competition, local vendors, puppies and more. Funds generated by Hospital, shopping and transportation. the festival will be used to help sustain the park’s grass areas, plant Directions: GW parkway west on Morningside Lane becomes Sherwood Hall to shade trees, and help assure the park’s continuing availability for L on Andrus to immediate R into parking lot Mount Vernon/Alexandria dog lovers and their canine friends. & L around behind to unit 6 ground level.

6 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 ❖ 7 Opinion

www.MountVernonGazette.com Voting Never Mattered More @MtVernonGazette An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered Consider voting absentee in person since to homes and businesses. VOTE: Upcoming Dates Published by ❖ To vote in November’s election, you must Local Media Connection LLC more than 500,000 other voters are likely be registered by Oct. 17: Voter Registration 1606 King Street Deadline - In-Person: 5 p.m., Online Alexandria, Virginia 22314 to turnout on Election Day. www.vote.virginia.go❖ 11:59 p.m. To determine whether you are eligible and Free digital edition delivered to registered to vote in this election, visit the your email box. Go to ith more than 655,000 active sional ballot. Virginia Department of Elections website at connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe voters in Fairfax County, and as http://elections.virginia.gov/ or call Fairfax Elections office at 703-222-0776. many as 500,000 voters turn- Provisional Ballot Process for Voters W ❖ In-Person Absentee Voting began Sept. NEWS DEPARTMENT: ing out on Election Day, it’s a Who Arrive Without Identification 23 and will continue until Nov. 5. http:// [email protected] good time to consider voting early, and pre- If you arrive at your polling place on Elec- www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections/ paring for a longer-than-usual process if vot- tion Day without an acceptable form of photo absentee.htm Steven Mauren ❖ Nov. 1: Last Day to Apply for an Absen- Editor, 703-778-9415 ing on Election Day. identification, don’t panic or give up. You will tee Ballot by Mail, Fax, Email or Online: 5 [email protected] While the Presidential election will take top be given the opportunity to vote a provisional p.m. ❖ Nov. 5: Final Day for In-Person Absentee Tim Peterson billing, every seat in the U.S. Congress is on ballot. After completing the provisional ballot, Community Reporter the ballot, with one hotly contested race in the individual voting will be given written in- Voting ❖ On Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 8. Polls 703-314-0789 Northern Virginia. structions from the election officials on how are open from 6 a.m. - 7 p.m. [email protected] ❖ Nov. 8: Absentee Ballot Return Deadline: Editorial In Fairfax County, voters will to submit a copy of his/her identification so Jeanne Theismann decide whether to enact a four that his/her vote can be counted. 7 p.m. [email protected] For more information on voting in Fairfax @TheismannMedia percent meals tax. A voter will have until noon on the Friday County: The Town of Herndon will have its first No- following the election to deliver a copy of the Voter Registration: 703-222-0776, TTY 711 vember election, moving from May in past elec- identification to the local electoral board or to Absentee Fax: 703-324-3725 ADVERTISING: tions, with the office of Mayor and six Town appear in person to apply for a Virginia Voter Email: [email protected] For advertising information Election Officer Info: 703-324-4735, TTY [email protected] Council seats on the ballot. http://herndon- Photo ID Card. Voters may submit a copy of 711 703-778-9431 va.gov/government/mayor-and-council/town- their ID via fax, email, in-person submission, Debbie Funk elections or through USPS or commercial delivery ser- ON THE BALLOT IN FAIRFAX COUNTY: Fairfax County voters will decide on three vice. Please note that the copy of the ID must Display Advertising/National Sales ❖ President and Vice President 703-778-9444 bond questions, including $120 million in be delivered to the electoral board by noon on ❖ U.S. House of Representatives, 8th, 10th, [email protected] transportation bonds for Metro; $107 million Friday, or the provisional ballot cannot be or 11th District in bonds for parks; and $85 million for build- counted. ❖ Meal Tax Referendum Julie Ferrill ❖ Three Proposed County Bond Questions Real Estate, 703-927-1364 ing and renovating senior and community cen- Also by noon on Friday following the elec- ❖ Two Proposed Constitutional Amend- [email protected] ters, and homeless shelters. More at http:// tion, the voter may appear in-person in the ments Helen Walutes www.fairfaxcounty.gov/bond/ office of the general registrar, in the locality in Display Advertising, 703-778-9410 See the Connection’s community guide on which the provisional ballot was cast, and ap- [email protected] how to vote and what’s on the ballot at ply for a Virginia Voter Photo ID Card. At the www.connectionnewspapers.com/news/ Virginia Voter ID Andrea Smith completion of the application process, the voter 2016/aug/25/how-vote-fairfax-county/ Classified Advertising, 703-778-9411 Virginia has a significant voter identification may request a Temporary Identification Docu- [email protected] requirement, plan to bring photo identification ment. This document may be provided to the David Griffin with you to vote, whether that is absentee or electoral board to suffice the identification re- Oct. 10, Columbus Day. Marketing Assistant on Election Day. But you can get a voter ID quirement. ❖ Oct. 17 to Nov. 4, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. 703-778-9431 card if you don’t have one of the other accept- to 8 p.m. [email protected] able identifications. ❖ Saturday Schedule: Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Among accepted ID: valid Virginia Driver’s Absentee Voting in and November 5, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 5 is the Publisher License or Identification Card; valid Virginia last day to absentee vote in-person. Jerry Vernon Person in 703-549-0004 DMV issued Veteran’s ID card; valid U.S. Pass- Absentee Voting at Satellite Locations [email protected] port; other government-issued photo identifi- Saturday Schedule: Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 and cation cards issued by the U.S. Government, Fairfax County Nov. 5, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm the Commonwealth of Virginia, or a political Voting begins Sept. 23, and with record turn- Weekday Schedule: Oct. 17 to Nov. 4, Mon- [email protected] subdivision of the Commonwealth; valid col- out possible, voting early if you qualify is a day - Friday, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. @MaryKimm lege or university student photo identification good choice. Editor in Chief card from an institution of higher education There are 19 valid reasons to vote absentee Satellite Voting Locations: Steven Mauren located in Virginia; valid student ID issued by in Virginia, including working and commut- ❖ Providence Community Center - 3001 Art/Design: a public school or private school in Virginia ing to and from home for 11 or more hours Vaden Dr., Fairfax, 22031 Laurence Foong, John Heinly ❖ Production Manager: displaying a photo; employee identification between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Election Day, Franconia Governmental Center - 6121 Geovani Flores card containing a photograph of the voter and which basically means anyone who commutes Franconia Rd., Alexandria, 22310 issued by an employer of the voter in the ordi- to a job. Check the Virginia Department of Elec- ❖ McLean Governmental Center - 1437 Balls CIRCULATION: 703-778-9427 nary course of the employer’s business. tions list to see if you are eligible. http:// Hill Rd., Community Room, McLean, 22101 Circulation Manager: elections.virginia.gov/casting-a-ballot/absen- ❖ North County Governmental Center, 1801 Ann Oliver Any registered voter who does not have tee-voting/index.html Cameron Glen Dr., Community Rooms, Reston, [email protected] one of the required forms of identification can If you vote absentee in-person you will fill 20190 apply for a free Virginia Voter Photo Identifi- out the application when you arrive at the in- ❖ West Springfield Governmental Center - A Connection Newspaper cation from any general registrar’s office in the person absentee location. 6140 Rolling Rd., Springfield, 22152 Commonwealth. Voters applying for the Vir- Absentee Voting Begins Sept. 23 ❖ Mason Governmental Center - 6507 Co- ginia Voter Photo ID complete the Virginia Fairfax County Government Center, Confer- lumbia Pike, Annandale, 22003 Voter Photo Identification Card Application, ence Room 2/3, ❖ Mount Vernon Governmental Center - have their picture taken, and sign the digital 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, 2511 Parkers Lane, Alexandria, 22306 signature pad. Once the application is pro- 22035 ❖ Sully Governmental Center - 4900 cessed, the card will be mailed directly to the Weekday Schedule: Stonecroft Blvd., Chantilly, 20151 voter. ❖ Sept. 23 to Oct. 14, Monday, Tuesday, ❖ Lorton Library - 9520 Richmond Hwy., A voter who does not bring an acceptable Wednesday and Friday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Lorton, 22079 SATURDAYS ONLY (Closed photo ID to the polls will be offered a provi- Thursday: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Closed, Monday, Weekdays) 8 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 ❖ 9 Aldersgate Church Opinion Community Theater Presents: Needs of Aging Population FOOLSFOOLS By Paul Krizek ing senior ID cards this year, and it allows seniors to Sept. 30 - Oct. 16, 2016 State Delegate (D-44) forego having to wait in line at the DMV or pay money Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm to update their existing ID cards every five years, as and Sunday’s at 2:00 pm. y 2030, one-in-four Virginians will be over is currently in the Code of Virginia. 60 years old. That’s over half a million more These senior-IDs are not driver’s licenses, which Ticket Prices: $12 & $15 B people than today, and that number will in- seniors will still need to have renewed as normal. Order online or purchase at the theater clude me too. This is a tremendous demographic These ID cards are for seniors who do not drive, but www.acctonline.org change, and it will present the Commonwealth with still desire a government-issued photo ID for reasons many new challenges to allow Virginians to age with that might include doctor’s visits, purchasing alco- Performing at Aldersgate United Methodist Church dignity and respect. hol, and opening a bank account. Many of NVAN’s 1301 Collingwood Rd, Alexandria, VA 22308 Last week, many colleagues and I attended the legislative priorities align with my volunteer work Northern Virginia Aging Network’s (NVAN) 17th as a board member of Mount Vernon at Home, which annual legislative breakfast. NVAN consists of staff is a nonprofit helping area residents age in-place representatives from the five Northern Virginia Agen- safely, comfortably, and confidently in their own cies on Aging, board members from the local Com- homes in the community they love. I am going missions on Aging, and representatives of allied or- through this experience as I move my elderly par- ganizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association, Na- ents from their condo into my home. My family is tional Association of Retired Federal Employees, and graciously helping to enhance accessibility with items AARP. Participants meet every other month at NVRC like a ramp entrance and handrails. to discuss issues of mutual concern, to craft a legis- As our aging population increases, we must work lative platform for presentation to the Virginia Gen- to keep elderly Virginians in their home community eral Assembly, and to discuss regional responses to where they provide so much experience to the rest critical issues affecting Northern Virginia’s older of us. These oldest members of our community make adults. wonderful volunteers in our places of worship, with As many readers know, elder care issues are one local nonprofits and schools and in daily civic life. of my top priorities. Last session, I patroned legisla- Through aging in-place, they provide continuity and tion currently being studied by the Department of a living memory and knowledge of our local history. Aging and Rehabilitation Services that would address Good public policy requires that we recognize the bank fraud in the senior community. In 2017, I will importance of our growing senior population, both patron legislation to create non-expiring ID cards for their needs and their considerable value to our com- residents age 80 and above. Wisconsin began issu- munity. Letters to the Editor and personal property taxes accounted for approxi- Property Taxes mately 79.7 percent of General Fund revenues in our recently-adopted Fiscal Year 2017 budget. The Shouldn’t Pay All state does give the board the authority to place a To the Editor: meals tax referendum on the ballot, however. By now, you’ve no doubt heard about the meals I supported this action because I believe our resi- tax referendum Fairfax County voters will face this dents should weigh in on how best for us to diver- November. Should it pass, the Board of Supervisors sify our tax base. Such a tax is estimated to generate will have the authority to implement a 4-percent tax $100 million in new revenue, one-third of which is on prepared foods to generate money for our school expected to come from non-residents visiting Fairfax system, capital improvements, and to help with real County. It’s certainly not the silver bullet for our estate tax relief. Should it fail, the county will con- budget challenges, but constantly increasing prop- tinue to rely predominantly on property taxes to gen- erty taxes is not the answer. The needs of Fairfax erate revenue. County Public Schools (FCPS) are growing; our resi- But what I’d like to discuss today is how we ar- dents expect our county programming to remain fully rived at this point. As the chairman of our board’s funded and operate at best-in-the-nation standards; Budget and Legislative Committees, I’m constantly yet our ability to look elsewhere to fund our budget looking for ways to fully fund our world-class school is basically nonexistent. This is why you hear about system and great county services while also ensur- significant potential cuts to school and county pro- ing we’re not taxing our most vulnerable and aging gramming and budget shortfalls. residents out of Fairfax County. What’s more, the Commonwealth chronically Virginia law severely limits the ways the Board of underfunds FCPS, only adding to our dilemma here Supervisors can raise revenues. In fact, real estate in Fairfax County. It costs roughly $13,000 to edu- cate a student in our school system. Of that, Fairfax County pays about $10,000. The state pays about ` A Musing $3,000. In neighboring Prince William County, how- There is a myth that George Washington’s false ever, the county-state funding split is 50/50. It costs teeth were made of wood. In this case, a myth is $10,000 to educate a Prince William student, of not as good as a mile. Woodn’t you like to know which the state pays $5,000 and the County pays the truth? Fact is, President Washington had sev- $5,000. This inadequacy is because of an outdated eral sets of teeth, made of various materials in- funding formula that primarily only measures wealth cluding ivory, gold and lead. And what does this with no cost of living consideration in deciding how tell us about George? First, he could clearly take much money each school system in the state should a big bite out of the most difficult tasks. Second, receive. As you can imagine, this puts us in a real he was clearly a man of very strong mettle, maybe bind when compared to the rest of the state. The even heavy metal (Do I hear Aerosmith playing Board of Supervisors and School Board are working in the background?). Plus, he had “endentured” hard with most of our Northern Virginia delegation servants. to help solve this, but it’s no quick fix. — Bart Hewitt So when you send in your absentee ballots, vote See Letters, Page 16 10 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Obituary #1 Real Estate Brand Online* | Unmatched Property Exposure on 725+ Laura Josephine Combs Davis Websites | 110-Year Legacy Open House Sunday 2-4pm aura Josephine Combs search Laboratory as a special- Old Town Davis died Sept. 19, ist in artificial intelligence, at- 121 Queen Street, Alexandria VA L Coveted Old Town LOCATION! Steps 2016, at Georgetown tending many international University Hospital after a brief conferences. to Potomac GARAGE 2BR 2.5BA battle with cancer. She was Laura raised two sons, Walk In level FR/Library, LR boasts born Sept. 22, 1939, in Los Michael and Alexander. 12'ceiling, private patio/garden, sep Angeles, Calif., to Samuel John Laura enjoyed traveling with DR Country Eat-In Kitchen 1/2BA Main Lvl. $1,150,000 Combs and Avaleah Lafferty her sons and their families. Jolee Rubin (703) 548-0697 Combs. After living in Camden, Books and home-grown fruits, http://bit.ly/2cPbH9t N.J. and Dallas, Texas, the fam- vegetables, and herbs from her ily re-settled in Van Nuys, Ca- garden were abundant in Open House Sunday 2-4pm lif. and Laura lived there until she left to Laura’s home. After her retire- Carlyle Towers Old Town attend college at Stanford University in ment, Laura remained active in her com- 2151 Jamieson Avenue, Alexandria VA 1957. As a young student, she studied mu- munity: she joined the local elections board, DELIGHTFUL! 3 BR, 2.5 BA Carlyle sic and played the piano. Laura won many was an usher for performing arts, taught Towers condo. High Floor Masonic academic awards and was an A student at popular exercise classes at the Hollin Hall Temple view. 2 gar, Wood floors. Van Nuys High School. Senior Center, volunteered at Mount Vernon Eat-in Kitchen. Close to VRE, metro Exercise was a constant in Laura’s life: as and the American Horticultural Society, and rail, Dash & taxi. Close to Whole Foods, CVS. $865,000 head cheerleader, she choreographed rou- was a block captain for the Wellington Civic Marie Meyer (703) 929-1002 tines for the entire cheerleading team. As a Association. high school senior, Laura served in student Laura is survived by her sons, Mike and Hallowing Point River Estates government, won first place in the Bank of Alex; sister, Sarah; brothers, Bill and Tom; 5940 River Drive, Lorton VA America Mathematics competition, and was grandchildren, Christopher, Rachel, Ayla, Totally renovated 4BD 2.5 BTH with chosen for membership in the prestigious and Lena; daughters-in-law Flossie and water views, swimming pool, hrdwd Ephebian Society of Los Angeles. Janine; and nephews, nieces, cousins, and floors, updated baths & waterfront At Stanford, Laura continued her athletic friends; all of whom loved her and will miss amenities, boat launch, dock, tennis & pursuits as a member of the ski team. She her dearly. bball and 7 acre private beach. earned a Bachelor’s Degree in mathematics A memorial service will be held for Laura $725,000 from Stanford and, after moving to the D.C. in December; for more details, please email Susan Gray Chambers (703) 203-9900 area, a Master’s Degree in statistics and ar- lauradavismemorial @gmail.com. In lieu of http://bit.ly/2d1q3lQ tificial intelligence from the University of flowers, donations in Laura’s memory may Maryland. She worked for the Naval Re- be made to the Fairfax Library Foundation. Quaker Park Estates 15 North Floyd Street, Alexandria VA Private oasis, 1/3 acre, 4Bed / 3FB 1 Garage + 5 extra spaces, Vaulted ceiling, Well Maintained, Excellent Landscaping, Deck, Great for Commuters, Close to Old Town, No HOA. $670,000 E.J. Stone (703) 627-8663 http://bit.ly/2cPrnN7

Open House Sunday 2-4pm Newington Forest 8152 Willowdale Court, Springfield VA Brick front town home on cul de sac in sought after Newington Forest community-renovated and backing to heavily wooded common area. $344,000 Steve Deleyiannis (703) 966-6062 http://bit.ly/2cGoXQj

Belle View Condos 6620 East Wakefield Drive, Unit J, Alexandria VA Light-filled 1 BR unit w/replacement windows, new carpet & fresh paint. Renovated kitchen w/ pass-through to dining area, additional cabinetry & newer appliances. $179,000 Heidi Burkhardt (703) 217-6009 http://bit.ly/2dd99G8

Alexandria 310 King St. | Alexandria, VA 22314 | 703.518.8300

*comScore, Jan.-Dec. 2015. The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International and the Previews logo are registered and unregistered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. 10713MA_A6/16 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 ❖ 11 Entertainment BurgerFi Sets Up Shop in Old Town With its opening last week, local co-owners celebrate a homecoming.

By Hope Nelson family affair — and a homecoming of sorts. The Gazette He co-owns the restaurant — and its sister BurgerFi in Leesburg — with his son, Chris eer down the 100 block of North Landry, and their family friend, Tim Kelly. Pitt Street and it’s easy to spot a And David Landry has longstanding roots Pnew neighbor. The erstwhile Pat within Alexandria, having grown up in the Troy’s Ireland’s Own, shuttered city, making their second location a natural for several years, now has new life in the fit. form of the city’s first BurgerFi. Open since Just two weeks into the new location’s Sept. 26, the locally owned opening, the team is settling in nicely. Appetite franchise has begun to gener- “The reaction’s been great,” Landry said. ate quite a bit of foot traffic — “I’ve heard nothing negative about the food, and prelaunch interest, too, with would-be but I didn’t expect I would because the BurgerFi, which opened last week in the former location of Pat Troy’s customers peeking in the front door in an- food’s fantastic.” Ireland’s Own, has begun to see steady business already. ticipation. And about that food: Don’t expect a But you haven’t missed a grand opening cookie-cutter, from-a-package experience, event, franchise co-owner David Landry Landry says. BurgerFi are the, well, burgers. And Landry braced BurgerFi, Landry and his team are says. “We don’t pour anything frozen out of a insists that customers won’t be disap- eager to give back once they have the res- “We just sort of unlocked the door and bag. Our French fries are potatoes in the pointed. taurant fully launched and running let the word get out that morning and they be- “That’s what we do is burgers; the meat smoothly. we were serving food,” come French fries. Our is the best we can buy,” Landry said. “People “Right now we’re focused on honing our he said. “I’m pretty Details onion rings are huge are smarter these days. People are paying skills with all our new people and doing pleased with the reac- jumbo onions in the attention to what they put in their bodies. things right, and turning this new location tion. We’re doing a great BurgerFi, 111 N. Pitt St. morning and they be- And while I will never pretend that a cheese- into a place that people are excited to go Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun- lunch business, which I day-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. come onion rings. burger is health food, Americans are always to, but certainly we plan on getting heavily expected we would. Friday-Saturday. Everything’s made from going to eat cheeseburgers. And if you’re involved in the local community,” includ- There’s a lot of fine din- Try this: The Breakfast All scratch. Unlike a lot of going to eat a cheeseburger, then you re- ing local schools, sports teams, and law- Day (aka BAD) Burger. Topped ing in Old Town but not with maple syrup, ketchup, a faster-casual restaurants, ally ought to eat this one. No junk, no addi- enforcement and veteran’s organizations, he a lot of fast casual.” fried egg, hash browns and ba- we just don’t take any tives, no hormones, no antibiotics; it’s hu- said. For Landry, the con, “it has a cult following like shortcuts,” he said. manely raised and source-verified. You just Hope Nelson operates the Kitchen Recessionista restaurant’s new home you wouldn’t believe,” co-owner But the real reason can’t buy a better meat.” David Landry said. blog, located at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email on North Pitt Street is a people are coming to While the neighborhood has quickly em- her any time at [email protected]. Calendar

Email announcements to gazette@ at Convergence, 1801 N. Quaker Center, 4603 Green Spring Road. The making and his belief in the promise Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery: connectionnewspapers.com. Include date, Lane. CryBaby Art Studio is an art Horticulture Center at Green Spring of redemption of all things. It is a “Salute to Secondary Colors.” time, location, description and contact for class designed for parents with Gardens is featuring the award- juxtaposition of the “dystopian” Through Nov. 6, gallery hours at 105 event: phone, email and/or website. Pho- infants (0-1) to relax and exercise winning photographs of Cindy Dyer, elements seen in our world with a N. Union St. The secondary colors tos and artwork welcome. Deadline is their creativity learning watercolor a graphic designer, photographer and vision of Heaven as evidence of God’s orange, green, and purple are the Thursday at noon, at least two weeks be- techniques each week with baby by USPS Stamp Artist. Free. Visit grace. Free. Visit theme for this show. Artists were fore event. their side. Registration is $100 for www.gardenmuseshow.com. www.ourconvergence.org for more. challenged to use these hues four-week series / $25 per class (art Exhibit: “The Fanciful in Daily Poe Immersive Theater: “A Dream individually, paired, or in a triadic supplies included). Visit Life.” Through Oct. 23, gallery Within a Dream.” Through Oct. color scheme. Free. Visit ONGOING www.metamorphosisaec.com. hours at The Associates’ Gallery at 31, 8 p.m. or 10 p.m. at Torpedo www.Potomacfiberartsgallery.com. Photo Exhibit: “Never Forget.” “Oh The Joy.” 2nd Annual Alexandria Live Music the Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Through Nov. 6, Through Oct. 16, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. St. “Upside Down: Inside Out: The This show is a surreal interpretation Gallery hours at The Athenaeum, 201 Week. Through Oct. 8, various times daily at Multiple Exposures Gallery – Fanciful in Daily Life” features three- of the life, works, and mad genius of S. Prince St. Artists from across the at various locations throughout Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. dimensional work by Erika Edgar Allan Poe, as seen through the region were asked to interpret the Alexandria. The 2nd Annual Union St. The photographs in this Cleveland. This imaginative fiber lens of the characters in his works theme, “Oh! The joy!” The selected Alexandria Live Music Week, exhibit follow photographer Alan artist explores the fanciful in daily and the people in his life. Tickets are entries represent the wealth of art presented by Alexandria Live and On Sislen’s 15-year photographic journey life with her needle-felted dolls, from $5-40. Visit www.torpedofactory.org/ being created in D.C., Maryland, and Tap Magazine, is a citywide music beginning before 9/11, and life-sized to small, flying from a Poe for more. Virginia. Free. Visit www.nvfaa.org. event featuring Alexandria’s diverse continuing today. Free. Visit trapeze to hanging from a vine. Free. “Transformations: Tapestries in John M. Adams: “Current music scene and musicians, as well www.multipleexposuresgallery.com Call 703-524-5723 or email Glass.” Through Nov. 6, gallery Interrupted.” Through Nov. 13, the clubs, bars, restaurants, shops for more. [email protected] for more. hours at The Art League Gallery, 105 gallery hours at The Rachel M. and venues that feature and promote “A (Mis)Perceived Physique: Exhibit: “Song of the Woods.” N. Union St. Anita Bucsay Damron’s Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts live music in Alexandria. This year Bodyscapes by Three Women Through Oct. 24, gallery hours at vibrant mosaics draw from many Center at Northern Virginia there will be over 50 participating Artists.” Through Oct, 16, gallery Green Springs Garden – Historical sources, both traditional and Community College, 4915 E. Campus venues and over 300 performances, hours at Target Gallery, 105 N. House, 4603 Green Spring Road. contemporary. Inspired by tapestries Drive. Free. Visit including a full schedule of music Union St. Target Gallery, the Artist Mary Exline displays her from Rajasthan and Gujarat, India, www.thefullempty.com for more. during Del Ray’s Art on the Avenue. contemporary exhibition space for abstract expressionist paintings. Free. her pieces incorporate crystal from Matthew Grimes: “(In)Material” Admission varies by venue. Visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center, Visit www.artis.com/maryexline. Austria and the Czech Republic, and “Pliant.” Through Nov. 14, www.livemusicweek.com for more. presents work by three women who Exhibit: “In All Things.” specialty glass from Murano, Italy, gallery hours at The Rachel M. Blackberry Daze. Through Oct. 9, Through use the female body to explore issues and found objects such as beads, Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts various times at MetroStage, 1201 N. Oct. 29, gallery hours at The Gallery of equity, power, politics, and brooches, and cameos. Damron notes Center at Northern Virginia Royal St. This is an adaptation from at Convergence, 1801 N. Quaker memory. Free. Visit that “new applications of mosaic art Community College, 4915 E. Campus the novel “Blackberry Days of Lane. The Convergence Arts Initiative www.torpedofactory.org for more. encourage recycling and reuse,” and Drive. Free. Visit www.nvcc.edu/ Summer” by Ruth P. Watson. Tickets will feature the work of artist and Exhibit: “Garden Muse.” Through her creative reuse of materials is schlesingercenter for more. are $60. Visit www.metrostage.org educator, Glenn Howell in his latest Oct. 23, 9-4:30 p.m. Monday- what gives this ancient art form its Young at Art Exhibition. Through for more. exhibit, “In All things.” The title of Saturday, 12-4:30 p.m. Sunday at exciting new sparkle. Free. Visit Nov. 17, gallery hours at Durant arts Crybaby Art Studio. Thursdays Howell’s photography and print show Green Springs Garden – Horticultural www.theartleague.org for more. Center, 1605 Cameron St. Calling all through Oct. 13, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. reflects the diversity of his image 12 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment

senior artists. This annual event is 1555 King St. David FitzSimmons cosponsored by Senior Services of will put on a young children’s Alexandria and Goodwin House “animational” program, complete Foundation. The Call for Art is Oct. with puppets and take home 4, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. $20 fee to submit activities, as well as sign copies of his up to three works of art. Visit award-winning “Curious Critters” www.seniorservicesalex.org. children’s books. Free. Call 703-548- Thursday Mornings with Kathryn 4092 for more. Coneway. Dec. 8, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Alexandria Fire Department Black at St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, 8531 Tie Gala. 6 p.m. at Embassy Suites Riverside Road. The themes in the Hotel, 1900 Diagonal Road. The gala book, “The Artist’s Rule,” will be a will include a cocktail reception and foundation to share experiences with dinner, and a silent auction (to creative practice. Each session will benefit the Friendship Firehouse begin with a quiet time and Foundation and the Alexandria exploration of materials before Firefighters and Paramedics IAFF transitioning to a discussion of the Local 2141 Helping Hands Relief themes and practices outlined in the Fund). Guest speakers for the chapter. Participants should purchase evening will be United States Fire a copy of “The Artist’s Rule”and read Administrator Ernest Mitchell, Jr. and the introduction and first chapter Chief Billy Goldfeder, Director of the prior to the first meeting. Safety, Health and Survival Section Registration is $50. Visit for the International Association of www.staidansepiscopal.com/Center- Fire Chiefs. Tickets are $75. E-mail for-Spiritual-Deepening for more. [email protected] or call Art Making as Meditation with 703.746.5241. Kathryn Coneway. Second Family Art Night. 6-8:30 p.m. at Wednesday of each month, 7-8:30 Photo Contributed Durant Arts Center, 1605 Cameron p.m. at St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, St. Pizza, soda and water will be on 8531 Riverside Road. Each session Asleep at the Wheel is touring in support of their album “Still the King: Celebrating the hand, complements of the Office of begins with a short reading and a Music of Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys.” They will perform on Oct. 12 at 7:30 p.m. the Arts. Choose from painting, brief introduction to materials. at The Birchmere Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Tickets are $35. Visit mosaics, cardboards games and Silence for making and meditation poetry pictures. Advance per person lasts an hour followed by sharing www.birchmere.com for more. reservations: $5 residents; $10 images or insights gained through the nonresidents. At door: $10 residents; process, if desired. Children able to $15 nonresidents. Visit participate in silence are welcome to Convergence, 1819 N. Quaker Lane. www.artsonthehorizon.org for more. thought of the revolutionary Teilhard www.alexandriava.gov/webtrac. come with a parent’s quiet Join Arts on the Horizon for a special de Chardin: Jesuit priest, Cameron Run Rocks. 6:30-9:30 p.m. supervision. RSVP not necessary for sneak peek performance of this work- paleontologist, visionary. at Cameron Run Regional Park, 4001 attendance, but helpful for planning in-progress. From birds and fish, to THURSDAY/OCT. 6-27 Registration is $25. Visit Eisenhower Ave. Batting cage, mini purposes. Email sand and water, and everything in- “Co-Creating the Cosmos.” 7:30-9 www.stadainsepiscopal.com/Center- golf, rock wall, games and prizes. [email protected]. between, young audience members p.m. at St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, for-Spiritual-Deepening. Free. Visit www.nvrpa.org for more. explore the shore, ocean, and the sky. 8531 Riverside Road. Frank Frost is Using an imaginative mix of an award-winning documentary film THURSDAY-SATURDAY/OCT. 6-8 puppetry, movement, and sound, this producer. His current work – The FRIDAY/OCT. 7 FRIDAY-SUNDAY/ OCT. 7-9 Preview: “By the Seashore.” 10:30 sensory-filled production is Teilhard de Chardin Project – is a Curious Critters Children’s Puppet The Hive Grand Opening. All day at a.m. Thursday-Friday, 10 a.m. and specifically designed for babies and television biography in production Performance and Book Signing. The Hive, 301 Cameron St. Find a 11:30 a.m. Saturday at The Lab at young toddlers. Tickets are $3. Visit for public television on the life and 10:30 a.m. at Hooray for Books! juice bar and braid bar, a book

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 ❖ 13 Entertainment

signing, cocktails, and more, as the Things. 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. at adult. This family-friendly nature owners of The Shoe Hive celebrate Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch program is intended for ages 5 and FRIDAY/OCT. 14 the grand opening of a new boutique. Library, 4701 Seminary Road. up. Tickets are $6. Register online at MONDAY/OCT. 10 Garden Talks with Master Free to attend. Visit Geologist Tony Fleming, author of www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Riley Etheridge Jr and Leon Gardeners: Fall Beauty. 1:30- www.shopatthehive.com for a full the recently published Geologic greenspring using code 290 487 3801 Russell. 7:30 p.m. at The Birchmere 2:30 p.m. at Green Spring Gardens, schedule. Atlas of the City of Alexandria, or call 703-642-5173. Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. 4603 Green Spring Road. Master Wine Festival and Sunset Tour. 6-9 Virginia and Vicinity (2016) and Poetry Exchange. 1-4 p.m. at Martha Tickets are $39.50. Visit Gardeners show off a variety of p.m. at George Washington’s Mount several other publications on local Washington Library, 6614 Fort Hunt www.thebirchmere.com for more. gorgeous perennials, shrubs and trees Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon geology, will guide us through the Road. The Poetry Society of Virginia in rich gold, burnt orange, brilliant Memorial Highway. Learn about the history and structure of the atlas, invites you to its annual Poetry burgundy and vibrant red shades that successes and failures of George and highlight how to use it to Exchange. Bill Glose, author of WEDNESDAY/OCT. 12 can add to an existing plantings for Washington’s wine endeavors, listen answer questions about the local “Personal Geography,” and Henry Asleep at the Wheel. 7:30 p.m. at remarkable, colorful results. Tickets to live music and tour where landscape using several Hart, author of “Background The Birchmere Music Hall, 3701 are $10. Register online at Washington stored his wine. Friday, geologically-dependent natural Radiation,” will read from their Mount Vernon Ave. Touring in www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ October 7: $40; Saturday, October 8: communities as examples. The works. Free. Call 703-930-5214 for support of their Grammy Award- greenspring using code 290 488 5101 $48; Sunday, October 9: $36. Visit presentation will also set the stage more. winning album “Still the King: or call 703-642-5173. www.mountvernon.org/calendar. for the afternoon excursion in and Gardening With Virginia Natives. Celebrating the Music of Bob Wills Port City Black Veil Happy Hour & around Holmes Run Gorge, one of 2-3:30 p.m. at Burke Branch Library, and His Texas Playboys,” Asleep at Female Stranger Mystery the most geologically and 4701 Seminary Road. Learn the best the Wheel perform. Tickets are $35. Quest. 6-8 p.m. happy hour, 8-10 OCT. 7-25 ecologically diverse places in management practices for growing Visit www.birchmere.com for more. p.m. mystery quest at Gadsby’s Silent Auction: “Birdhouses of Del northern Virginia. Free. Visit plants native to Northern Virginia. Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. Ray.” Gallery hours at Del Ray www.vnps.org/potowmack. Master Gardeners of Arlington and Join Port City Brewing Co. and Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Art Safari. 12-4 p.m. at Torpedo Alexandria will cover the basics of THURSDAY/OCT. 13 Gadsby’s Tavern Museum to Ave. Del Ray Artisans’ artists have Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. sustainable landscaping practices that Yacht Haven Garden Club Fashion celebrate the release of the Long created one-of-a-kind birdhouses for An Alexandria family tradition, Art make the most of available water, Show. 10 a.m. at Fort Belvoir Black Veil, a special craft beer the “Birdhouses of Del Ray” silent Safari returns to the Torpedo improve soil health and reduce Officers Club, 5500 Schulz Circle, inspired by the famous tale of the auction fundraiser. Artists used a Factory Art Center for its 21st year. maintenance. Free. Visit Fort Belvoir. Fashions for women of Female Stranger. Ticket prices not wide range of materials to create and Resident and visiting artists lead www.mgnv.org for more. all sizes will be provided by Details of yet announced. Visit decorate their birdhouses. Free to young visitors in an afternoon full Living With Difference. 3-4:30 p.m. Occoquan. Tickets are $40. Call 703- shop.AlexandriaVA.gov/Events.aspx participate. Visit of hands-on creative activities such at Duncan Branch Library, 2501 354-3728 for more. for more. www.delrayartisans.org for more. as papier-mâché, fiber, and Commonwealth Ave. Come and Community Partner Night. 5:30- printmaking. Enjoy the Alexandria discover more of how communities 8:30 p.m. at Alexandria City Hall, Archaeology Museum’s special can be made stronger through the 301 King St. The Alexandria City SATURDAY/OCT. 15 OCT. 7-30 activities featuring their collection diversity they support. Free. Call 703- Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, The Mount Vernon Masonic Art Exhibit: “Local Flavor.” Gallery of 18th- and 19th-century pottery and 746-1781. Inc. will host “A Salute to Community Temple Open House. 8:30-11:30 hours at Del Ray Artisans, 2704 china, as well as The Art League’s Service and Partnership” in honor of a.m. at 8717 Fort Hunt Road. Free Mount Vernon Ave. “Local Flavor” art popular Gallery Scavenger Hunt. its 10-year anniversary. Free. Email breakfast will be served. Visit exhibit at Del Ray Artisans showcases Free. Visit SUNDAY/OCT. 9 [email protected] for more. mountvernonlodge219.wordpress.com. member artwork that highlight the www.TorpedoFactory.org. Opera Nova Brunch. 12:30 p.m. at Lecture: “Foreign Policy Issues Beauty in Sustainability things they adore, crave, and Family Fun: Leaf Critter Washington Golf & Country Club, and Election 2016: More Light Symposium. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at experience in their beloved neck of Crafternoon. 1-2 p.m. at Green 3017 N. Glebe Road. Opera singers than Heat.” 7-8:30 p.m. at Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green the woods—and celebrate the special Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring including Jose Sacin will perform Cameron Station Clubhouse, 200 Spring Road. In this double header touches found in community. Free. Road. Children will enjoy creating opera arias and Broadway show Cameron Station Blvd. Dr. Larry Korb program, learn how to plan and plant Visit www.DelRayArtisans.org. animal images from different leaf tunes, as well as selections from will discuss the foreign policy a home garden that is a source for shapes, glue and wiggly eyes. Make “Treemonisha,” Scott Joplin’s opera, positions of the candidates with time beauty, labor savings and one to take home and one to hang to be staged for children next spring for your questions. Free. Call 202- environmental change. Get to know SATURDAY/OCT. 8 in our nature gallery. Children must by Opera Nova. Tickets are $60. Visit 494-9796. lovely native alternatives to some Plants and Birds and Rocks and be accompanied by a registered www.operanova.org. common exotic plants. These natives

Exp. 10/31/16

14 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment

will not only provide lasting beauty to your garden, but also benefit native wildlife. Rethink some traditional, labor intensive gardening practices that are at odds with nature’s rhythms. Tickets are $38. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ parks/greenspring using code 290 484 7201 or call 703-642-5173. Hollin Hall Senior Center Annual Mega Bazaar/Craft Fair. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at 1500 Shenandoah Road. Find more 30 crafters, silent auction, bake sale, and door prizes. Free. Call 703- 765-4573. En Plein Air Painting at Mount Vernon. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Highway, Mount Vernon. Join Mount Vernon for this rare opportunity to create your own watercolor masterpieces while enjoying the beauty of the estate. Instruction includes how to find and focus on a landscape subject, create a small value sketch, and complete several paintings. Both days conclude with a thoughtful and positive group critique. The class is limited to 15 participants. Tickets are $95 per person. Supplies are not included. Visit www.mountvernon.org for more. Family Fall Festival. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. “Music of My Life,”Milagros Mateu at Armistead L. Booth Park, 520 Cameron Station Blvd. A family favorite event featuring fall activities ‘Local Flavor’ Opens Oct. 7 such as scarecrow making, pumpkin This October Del Ray Artisans presents a collection of artwork from mem- and face painting, arts and crafts, ber artists that highlight the things they adore, crave, and experience in their exhibitors, food vendors, puppet unique and beloved neck of the woods. “Local Flavor” celebrates the spe- show, pony rides, and band cial touches found in community. Come to the opening reception on Friday, performance. Free to attend. Call Oct. 7, 7-9 p.m. to meet many of the artists and vote for the “People’s Choice.” 703-746-5592 for more. Also, attend workshops on Oct. 27 and 29. Visit www.DelRayArtisans.org. Burgundy Fall Fair. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Burgundy Farm Country Day School, 3700 Burgundy Road. Family fun for the history and flavor nuances of port blossoming of modern native plant all ages: pumpkin painting, zombie and sample different styles of this nurseries, native plants have become Community Partner run, moon bounce, craft mart, used versatile Portuguese wine with a integral to horticulture and design in book and kids’ closet sale, food tent. range of foods from cheeses to America. Free. Visit www.vnps.org/ Free admission. Proceeds from chocolates to reveal your port palate. potowmack. activity tickets and food and Tickets are $44. Register online at merchandise sale benefit student www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ financial aid. Rain or shine. Visit greenspring using code 290 483 4201 TUESDAY/OCT. 18 www.burgundyfarm.org or call 703- or call 703-642-5173. Following the Trails – Migration 960-3431. Routes in America. 1-3 p.m. at National Diversity Awareness Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Month Poetry Reading. 1-3 p.m. OCT. 15-25 Shenandoah Road. Genealogist at Duncan Branch Library, 2501 Apple Brandy Production at Sharon Hodges talks about major Commonwealth Ave. Wendi R. Mount Vernon. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at trails, waterways, and roads used by Kaplan, Alexandria Poet Laureate, Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon migrating families from colonial will read poetry that highlights Highway, Mount Vernon. Watch as times to 1850 . Free. diversity and welcomes others to this special distillation project utilizes Visitwww.mvgenealogy.org or call share poetry and stories about a variety of apples that were grown 703-768-4101. diversity. Free. Visit by Washington on his Estate, such as Lecture: “William the Conqueror.” alexlibraryva.org. Newton Pippin and Hughes. In 7-9 p.m. at The Lyceum, 201 S. Dogue Run Tour. 1-5 p.m. at Mount addition to rye whiskey, George Washington Ave. This October marks Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Washington’s Distillery produced the 950th anniversary of the Battle of Highway, Mount Vernon. Enjoy small amounts of apple and peach Hastings, where William of private guided tours of the Distillery brandy. Some of the brandy was sold Normandy became “William the & Gristmill site and Historic in the market, while the remainder Conqueror” of England. But the Woodlawn Estate during this tour! was taken to the Mansion and Norman invasion of England in 1066 Watch demonstrations of the enjoyed with guests visiting the should not have succeeded. Dr. Gristmill’s operating system, and Washingtons. Included in general Paxton will discuss the military distillers in action as they make apple admission. Tickets are $9-20, with a tactics and strategy combined with brandy, in addition to sampling discount for buying online. Visit incredible good luck that changed the Mount Vernon whiskey. From the www.mountvernon.org. course of history. $5 suggested Distillery & Gristmill, guests will donation. Visit move to Woodlawn, the home of williamtheconqueror.eventbrite.com. Martha Washington’s granddaughter, SUNDAY/OCT. 16 Eleanor (Nelly) Parke Custis, and her Walk to Bust Cancer. 8 a.m. at Fort husband, Lawrence Lewis. Tickets are Hunt Park, 8999 Fort Hunt Road. WEDNESDAY/OCT. 19 $25. Visit www.mountvernon.org for The Walk to Bust Cancer will bring Book Discussion: “For Whom the more. together breast cancer survivors and Bell Tolls.” 7-9 p.m. at Duncan Oral History Project. 2-3 p.m. at their families, those currently facing Branch Library, 2501 Commonwealth Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary the disease, and anyone who wishes Ave. Free. Call 703-746-1781. Road. Bring your family heirloom to walk to show their support. and stories for a history “show-and- Registration is free for children, $15 tell” co-sponsored by the Alexandria for children ages 7-12, and $35 for THURSDAY/OCT. 20 Library and Office of Historic adults. Visit Garden Tour and Tea. 1-3 p.m. at Alexandria. Oral historians will be on www.walktobustcancer.org for more. Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green hand to document the objects and The Native Plant Movement in Spring Road. Tour the glorious stories as part of the City’s oral North America. 1-3 p.m. at Green demonstration gardens with Master history archive. Participants should Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Gardener docents. Hear about Green arrive a few minutes early to Road. C. Colston Burrell is an Spring’s fascinating history, our complete consent forms. All are acclaimed lecturer, garden designer educational mission and how we can welcome to come and enjoy local and photographer. The late 19th help your gardens grow. Afterward, history through the perspective of century set the stage for the enjoy a traditional English afternoon fellow residents. Free. Visit blossoming of a national love affair tea served in the 1784 Historic www.historicalexandria.org. with native plants. From the House. Tickets are $32. To make Port Wine Tasting Party. 4-6 p.m. at Victorian passion for the outdoors reservations, call Historic Green Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green and the birth of the field guide, to Spring at 703-941-7987. Spring Road. Revive the lost art of the environmental movement and the the aperitif and the digestif. Discover www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 ❖ 15 Letters

From Page 10 count on their tax bill, saying they’ve provided the in-person at one of our satellite locations, or hit required “tax relief” and then spend the other the polls on Nov. 8, I’d hope you consider the pre- $29,600,000 of the 30 percent of the projected rev- dicament the county is in. enue on the vaguely worded “County services” and Jeff McKay “capital improvements.” If all the 30 percent were Lee District Supervisor used to reduce real estate taxes, the reduction would only average about $75 per housing unit. Quite small. There is no guarantee approval of the referendum No Tax Relief and imposition of this new tax will result in a dollar To the Editor: more going to our schools. The BOS decides how I am writing to oppose the Meals Tax Referendum. I much money is to be transferred to the school sys- attended a meeting last week in which the referen- tem from tax revenues from all sources during bud- dum was debated. Attendees included Mount Vernon get hearings and votes in March-April each year. In Supervisor Dan Storck and Springfield Supervisor the most recent budget, that number was $1.7 bil- Pat Herrity. lion. If the new tax is enacted, the BOS could very Supervisor Storck actually said this in support of well decide to maintain the level of school funding the tax: “This is about yes for me, yes, yes. First off, at $1.7 billion or even reduce the number. At the $1.7 it is a chance, it is a chance for us to grow and help billion level, that would mean the BOS is basically our restaurants here locally thrive. Yes, the restau- adding the predicted $70 million revenue from the rants in this area will thrive, I think, because of this Meals Tax they are legally obligated to transfer to meals tax ultimately, I absolutely do.” Increasing the the school system (70 percent of the predicted $100 tax burden targeted on a specific industry will help million) to $1.63 billion appropriated from other that industry thrive? Nonsense. sources (a total of $1.7 billion) and thus freeing up The brochure mailed by the county concerning the $100 million (the 70 percent for schools plus the 30 meals tax says the following: “A meals tax would percent for county services, capital improvements and diversify the county’s tax revenue base. The Board property tax relief) to be spent elsewhere at BOS dis- of Supervisors is seeking authority to impose a meals cretion with virtually no real estate tax relief required tax to reduce the county’s dependence on real es- to be included. This demonstrates the clear fraud in tate taxes.” When I read these sentences, what they the BOS sales pitch for the Meals Tax. mean to me is that the purpose for the Meals Tax is Our schools need increased revenue. There is no not to increase the net taxes we pay but, rather, to guarantee enacting the Meals Tax will provide that spread the taxes over more categories of taxation. If increased revenue. The solution is electing politicians the purpose for the meals tax is to diversify taxes, capable of gaining Fairfax County more than the cur- not raise them, the referendum would require the rent 23 percent return on the 100 percent of the tax BOS to reduce the real estate tax rate to a level off- money (derived from the state income tax, sales taxes, setting the increase in revenue attributable to the and real estate transfer taxes) we currently send to revenue from the meals tax. The representation that Richmond. Increasing that percentage to 26 percent diversification is the only goal is false. If voters ap- would equal all the revenue projected to be derived prove the referendum, taxes are going up. from the Meals Tax with no increase in taxation. The referendum language states: “70 percent of Supervisor Herrity said this to an audience mem- the net revenues to Fairfax County Public Schools” ber at the meeting: “You were at the meeting when and “30 percent of the net revenues to county ser- Supervisor Gross said we just need to put whatever vices, capital improvements and property tax relief.” language is in there so we can get it passed.” There it What this means is there is no guarantee that impo- is in a nutshell: say anything to get it passed. Print- sition of the new tax will result in material reduc- ing and mailing the brochure cost taxpayers over tion in real estate taxes. As quoted above, the 30 $400,000. I suggested that BOS members who ap- percent not going to schools can be spent by the proved the one-sided brochure should be asked to county in three categories, county services, capital reimburse the county treasury out of their county sala- improvements, and property tax relief. There is no ries. I double-down on that suggestion. requirement that property tax relief will comprise a For all of these reasons, the referendum should be significant percentage of that 30 percent. Since 70 defeated. It does not amount solely to a diversifica- percent of the new tax (2.8 cents out of the 4 cent tion of revenues, rather, it amounts to a tax increase. tax) cannot be for property tax relief, this is an added There is no guarantee enactment of the tax will re- tax burden for taxpayers. There are over 400,000 sult in a larger appropriation to our schools. The only housing units in the county. The BOS can satisfy the guarantee is that it will give our BOS $100 million referendum requirement to provide property tax re- more to spend as they wish. Vote No. lief by awarding every housing unit owner a $1 dis- H. Jay Spiegel/Mount Vernon

COMMUNITIES OF WORSHIP Good Shepherd Catholic Church Mass Schedule Saturday: 5:00 pm Vigil Mass 6:30 pm Vigil Mass (en Español) Monday- Sunday: Saturday: 7:30 am; 9:00 am 9:00 am Mass (with Sign Language (Rosary at 8:30 am) Interpreter and Children’s Liturgy of En Español: the Word); 10:30 am; Monday, 6:30 pm; 12:00 Noon; 2:00 pm Thursday, 7:30 pm; (en Español); 6:30 pm First Friday, 7:30 pm 8710 Mount Vernon Highway, Alexandria VA, 22309 Tel: 703-780-4055 Fax: 703-360-5385 • www.gs-cc.org Join us for the Year of Mercy To Advertise Your Faith Community, call Karen at 703-917-6468

16 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com 703-778-9411 Zone 3: • Alexandria Classified Zone 3 Ad Deadline: Home & Garden • Mount Vernon Tuesday Noon connectionnewspapers.com CONTRACTORS.com

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LEGAL NOTICE Fairfax County Pursuant to the provision of ALEXANDRIA SOUTH section 4-1-16 of the code of SFH, Brick rambler 3 BR CLASSIFIED the City of Alexandria, the 1 BA, W/D, CAC, Gas heat, Alexandria Police Department large fenced back yd, For Local… located at 3600 Wheeler Ave- off-street pking. N/S, no nue, Alexandria, VA 22304 is pets $1745/mnth. Recessed Lighting •Employment now in possession of un- 703-360-5885(owner/agent) Licensed/Bonded/Insured claimed bicycles, mopeds, Ceiling Fans •Employees lawn equipment, money, Phone/CATV Office 703-335-0654 •Services scooters, and other items. All Computer Network Cabling Mobile 703-499-0522 •Entertainment persons having valid claim to 28 Yard Sales Service Upgrades the property should file a claim Hot Tubs, etc… [email protected] •Announcements to the property with reasona- •Real Estate ble proof of ownership or the ESTATE SALE •Cars items will be sold, destroyed, converted or donated. For a Oct 7,8, & 9 GUTTER GUTTER •Trucks complete listing go to 10am - 5pm •Vans http://alexandriava.gov/police/ and contact the Police Proper- 6808 Derrell Ct, •RV’s Alexandria •Boats ty Section at (703) 746-6709. GUTTER CLEANING Cash only Gutters and Downspouts Cleaned •Pets rain or shine Small Repairs • Gutter Guards •Yard Sales •Crafts 21 Announcements PINNACLE SERVICES •Hobbies 101 Computers 101 Computers 21 Announcements 21 Announcements lic/ins free est. ABC LICENSE 703-802-0483 •And More! Portner Brewhouse, LLC trad- email [email protected] ing as Portner Brewhouse, web: lawnsandgutters.com For All 5770 Dow Avenue, Friendly Service with a Friendly Price! Your Alexandria, VA 22304 The HDI above establishment is COMPUTER SOLUTIONS Advertising applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF JENNIFER SMITH ❖ Serving the Area Since 1995 Needs… ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTS CONTROL (ABC) for a Wine & ➣ Speed Up Slow It Works. Beer On & Off Premises Computers Week w/Keg & Mixed Beverage & Brewery license to sell or ➣ Virus Removal After Week. manufacture alcoholic Power Washing beverages, ➣ Computer Setup Go from Green to Clean. We clean 703 Merrygate Hospitality, LLC ➣ Houses, Decks, Fences, Patios, etc. 917-6400 NOTE: Objections to the Help with Windows 8 & 10 Deck Staining and Sealing, Exterior issuance of this license must Place be submitted to ABC no later 571-265-2038 Wood Rot, Deck & Fence Repair. than 30 days from the publish- [email protected] Licensed & Insured • Free Estimates Your ing date of the first of two required newspaper legal email: [email protected] Ad notices. Objections should be Today! registered at 703-987-5096 www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200. to your community HOW TO SUBMIT ADS TO RN. CONTRACTORS, INC. Remodeling Homes, Flooring, Newspapers & Online 21 Announcements 21 Announcements Kitchen & Bath, Windows, Siding, Roofing, Additions & CLASSIFIED 3 RE for Rent 3 RE for Rent DEADLINES Patios, Custom Deck, Painting Zones 1, 5, 6...... Mon @ noon Old Town Alexandria We Accept All Major Credit Cards Zones 2, 3, 4...... Tues @ noon Fabulous 2-bedroom apartment in the heart Licensed, Insured, Bonded • Free Estimates • Class A Lic E-mail ad with zone choices to: of Old Town. 3 blocks south of King Street. East Phone: 703-887-3827 of Washington Street. 2 bedrooms, 1 1⁄2 baths. [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] or call Andrea @ 703-778-9411 Washer-dryer. Cable and wi-fi, heat and AC included. Separate entrance to apartment in www.rncontractors.com EMPLOYMENT beautiful historic house. Easy parking. $2,850 a DEADLINES month. 703-684-3975. Zones 1, 5, 6...... Mon @ noon Picture Perfect Zones 2, 3, 4...... Tues @ noon MORRISON, James Thomas, 36, of Alexandria, Va., 21 Announcements 21 Announcements passed away September 27, 2016. James was born into a E-mail ad with zone choices to: military family on April 22, 1980 in Honolulu, Hawaii to parents ALEXANDRIA CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS [email protected] Thomas Allen & Karen Ann (Petit) Morrison who survive REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NUMBER 16-10-01 him. He is also survived by an older sister, Kelly Morrison Pop or call Andrea @ 703-778-9411 and husband Maximilian, and an older brother Douglas Morri- The Alexandria City School Board dba Alexandria City Public son and wife Emily and niece/nephew Ella Grace and Wesley Schools is seeking proposals for Coaching Programs for Edu- Allen. He lived as a child in Charleston, S.C., San Pedro, Calif., cation Leaders at Alexandria City Public Schools. ZONES and Springfield, Va. Growing up he loved swimming, skate- Zone 1: The Reston Connection boarding with friends, and played football, baseball, Sealed Proposals with the notation RFP# 16-10-01 Coaching The Oak Hill/Herndon Connection and soccer for various youth programs. He graduated from Programs for Education Leaders will be received in the Central Robert E. Lee High School in Springfield where he was honor- Procurement Office, 1340 Braddock Place, Suite 620, Alexan- Zone 2: The Springfield Connection ed for his photographic talents. He attended Northern Virginia dria, Virginia 22314, on or before 3:00 pm, October 25, 2016. The Burke Connection Community College where he graduated with an Associate’s The time of receipt shall be determined by the time clock (703) 590-3187 Degree. His commitment to the food and beverage stamp in the Procurement office. Proposals appropriately re- The Fairfax Connection industry was very evident in his dedication to friends and ceived will be opened and the names of the firms responding The Fairfax Station/Clifton/ patrons at the Evening Star Café where he worked for twelve will be read aloud. RFP documents may be obtained at the Remodeling Bathrooms, Kitchens & Basements years. He loved playing team sports - roller blade hockey, above Procurement Office or by calling 703-619-8343, or by Lorton Connection bowling and fantasy football-and enjoyed summers at the downloading the RFP from the ACPS website at Exterior & Interior Repair, Painting, Carpentry, Zone 3: The Alexandria Gazette Packet beach and pool. He was a regular attendee at Washington http://www.acps.k12.va.us/financial-services/purchasing/ National’s baseball games and enjoyed watching Redskins Wood Rot, Drywall, All Flooring, Decks The Mount Vernon Gazette football, LA Kings hockey and Liverpool soccer. He liked vege- All questions answered will be posted as an addendum to the Zone 4: Centre View North table gardening, sharing his crops with housemates and ACPS web site. •FREE Estimates •EASY To schedule Centre View South friends and making creative culinary delights. James was founder of “Monday Taco Night” which under his No RFP may be withdrawn for a period of ninety (90) days •FAST & Reliable Service •NO $$$ DOWN! Zone 5: The Potomac Almanac tutelage grew to become a regular and much beloved affair in after the opening of proposals except as may be set forth in the Zone 6: The Arlington Connection the Del Ray community of Alexandria. RFP. Handyman Services Available The Vienna/Oakton Connection James will be especially remembered for his sense of humor ACPS reserves the right to cancel this RFP and/or reject any http://www.pphionline.com/ The McLean Connection and social acumen. A Memorial Mass was celebrated or all proposals and to waive any informalities in any proposal. Wednesday October 5, at Sacred Heart Cathedral in “If it can be done, we can do it” The Great Falls Connection Richmond, Va. Online condolences received at Sharon Lewis Licensed – Bonded – Insured woodyfuneralhomeparham.com. Director of Procurement

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 ❖ 17 Home & Garden 703-778-9411 News Zone 3: • Alexandria Zone 3 Ad Deadline: • Mount Vernon connectionnewspapers.com CONTRACTORS.com Tuesday Noon

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/The Gazette 703-863-7465 GOLDY BRICK LICENSED Serving All of N. Virginia CONSTRUCTION Walkways, Patios, Driveways, Flagstone, Concrete FCPS Superintendent Karen Garza (back, right) laid out FY2018 re- LAWN SERVICE LAWN SERVICE FREE ESTIMATES quired expenditure assumptions totalling over $58 million. Enroll- Licensed, Insured, Bonded ment growth, retirement rate increases and health insurance rate J.E.S. Services 703-250-6231 increases were among those costs Garza said “are going to fluctuate Your neighborhood company since 1987 but we have no choice but to pay.” 703-912-6886 TILE/MARBLE TILE/MARBLE Split Over Meals Tax Landscaping & Construction BATHROOM REMODELING by Brennan and Tile From Page 1 opposition, they haven’t stepped forward” Free Estimates - Fully Licensed & Insured Partial or Full. Kit. Floors, Backsplashes. • Planting & Landscaping Design Specializing in Ceramic, Porcelain, Glass Tiles Springfield District school board repre- with proof the meals tax will be the blow • Drainage & Water Problems and Natural Stones. Also repair work. 35 yrs exp. sentative Elizabeth Schultz said in no un- they say it will. • Concrete Driveways, Replacement or New www.brennan-tile.com certain terms she wouldn’t vote for releas- Schultz continued her opinion, following • Patios and Walks • Masonry Work or Dry Laid 703-250-2872 ing the statement. She said she was critical the meeting, calling the statement “classic • Paver, Flagstone, Brick, any style you choose Licensed • Bonded • Insured • Retaining walls of all types of the statement omitting text to help vot- liberal tax-and-spend mentality.” All work Guaranteed ers understand the “magnitude of the im- “Instead of being more jobs — and eco- pact” the tax would have, especially on low nomic growth-oriented, we’re going to MASONRY MASONRY income families. make it more difficult to live in Fairfax Supervisor Pat Herrity (R-Springfield) County. BRICK AND STONE Employment spoke to some criticism the Board of Su- To Herrity, Schultz and others, Supervi- pervisors has received over previous public sor Dan Storck (D-Mount Vernon) said his Custom Masonry mailings on the meals tax coming across as response is “Show me where we’re spend- 703-768-3900 ASSISTANT EDITOR intended to influence voters to vote in fa- ing $100 million wrong. I hear bits and vor of it. pieces, but they’re small pieces. The issue www.custommasonry.info Two full time positions open immediately: “It depends on whether you think you is we’re talking about a much larger chal- Patios, Walkways, Stoops, Steps, Driveways We’re looking for two full-time assistant editors to help our team with all aspects of have a spending problem or a revenue prob- lenge.” Storck said he’s supportive of find- Repairs & New Installs•All Work Guranteed our award-winning news coverage, lem,” Herrity said. “This is PR.” ing other ways to fund education and re- including web, print and social media. Bulova explained the statement was de- duce the burden on real estate property tax, Seize the opportunity to learn from top veloped by both chairs to be used to explain but that the Virginia General Assembly lim- Alfredo’s Construction Company, Inc. editors while expanding our visual story- how funds from the meals tax would be its the county’s options by withholding in- telling, bringing digital first skills and used. come tax and constraining other taxing •Concrete Driveways attitude. •Patios •Sidewalks Budget committee chair Supervisor Jeff power. “I’m frustrated because state legis- •Stone •Brick Must be a prolific, fluent, accurate writer, McKay (D-Lee) asked if any supervisor or lature needs to give local communities the Phone: rewriter and researcher with knowledge of School Board member thought anything in trust they say they have in us,” Storck said, VA: (703) 698-0060 • MD: (301) 316-1603 AP style and clean copy. Self-starter who the statement wasn’t factual. “to make the kind of local decisions frankly can work independently and Sully District School Board representative democracy was founded on. Give us those www.alfredosconstructioncompany.com collaboratively with strong organizational Tom Wilson called the move for a meals tax choices, those opportunities. I think that the skills, external and internal customer “premature,” and that the supervisors don’t referendum is a way to do that. We have to TREE SERVICE TREE SERVICE service skills, high productivity, attention to detail and drive to make our have good information on the implications at least make an effort to see it through.” community content the best and most of the meals tax, if passed, on restaurants, More information on the 2016 Meals Tax comprehensive in the region. families and other businesses. Referendum is available at Quality Tree Service “I don’t think it will have a negative im- www.fairfaxcounty.gov/mealstax, including & Landscaping Our offices are in Old Town Alexandria pact on restaurants and staff,” responded the text of the ballot question in both En- walking distance to the King Street Metro. Supervisor John Foust (D-Dranesville). “The glish and Spanish. Reasonable prices. Licensed & insured. Free parking. Health insurance available. Two weeks paid vacation. Option to work Summer Cleanup... from home or other location at least one Tree removal, topping & pruning, day a week on average. Salary in $30s. Bulletin Board shrubbery trimming, mulching, leaf removal, planting, hauling, Send cover letter, resume, three clips or From Page 5 Cost is $25 per person for Chamber gutter cleaning, retaining walls, work examples and a several story ideas to members and $35 for non-Chamber. drainage problems, etc. THURSDAY/OCT. 13 Register at www.MtVernon- Mary Kimm, Publisher and Editor, LeeChamber.org or call 703-360-6925. Local Media Connection/ Chamber Business Breakfast. 8-9:30 a.m. 25 years of experience – Free estimates Connection Newspapers at at Belle Haven Country Club, 6023 Fort TUESDAY/OCT. 18 703-868-5358 [email protected]. Hunt Road. Don Beyer and Charles Hernick Lions Meeting. The Mount Vernon Lions Positions available immediately. will speak at the monthly Business dinner meeting will be at Pema’s Breakfast of Mount Vernon Lee Chamber of restaurant with social at 6:30 p.m and 24 Hour Emergency More at Commerce. These candidates will talk connectionnewspapers.com/job-openings dinner at 7 p.m. Lion Richard Bell will Tree Service about their views on issues facing local speak on the White Cane Project. Public businesses. There will also be a invited. Call Andrea Corsillo at 703-960- presentation on the proposed Meals Tax. 4973.

18 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com NOW AVAILABLE

NOW OPENYS ON SUNDA 10AM TO 4PMY BY APPT ONL YOU HAVE SATURDAY OFF. THAT’S EXACTLY WHY WE DON’T!

Call for An Appointment 703-684-0710 or Schedule Online at AlexandriaToyota.com

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 ❖ 19 20 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ October 6-12, 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com SeniorSenior LivingLiving FFALLALL 20162016

Mark Harris from Alexandria comes up for air during the 50 yard breaststroke in the 50-54 age group. Harris won a gold medal in the event that was held at the Claude Moore Recreation Center in

Photo by Tom Manning/The Connection Sterling on Sept. 16. www.ConnectionNewspapers.comLocal Media Connection LLC onlineMount at Vernon www.connectionnewspapers.com Gazette ❖ Senior Living Fall 2016 ❖ 1 Senior Living

Photos by Tom Manning/The Gazette Mark Harris from Alexandria comes up Joanne Brenton from Alexandria swims for air during the 50 yard breaststroke in her way to gold in the 55-59 age group the 50-54 age group. Harris won a gold breaststroke at the Claude Moore Recre- medal in the event at the Claude Moore ation Center in Sterling on Sept. 16. Recreation Center on Sept. 16. From the Beginning to the End

982 participants signed up Fifty events were held at 25 different venues across Northern Virginia including horseshoes and for 2016 Northern Virginia bocce at Fairfax Senior Center-Green Acres, field events at Stone Bridge High School Stadium, swim- Senior Olympics. ming at Claude Moore Recreation Center, tennis mixed doubles at Wakefield District Park and Wii he Northern Virginia Senior Olympics Bowling at Greenspring Retirement Community T (NVSO) opened Sept. 10 and ran through Center in Springfield. There were two 100+ age Sept. 21 with another record registration group entries this year, Vera Punke from Arlington of 918 participants. Saturday opening day ceremo- and Hilda Gross from Burke entered in the dupli- nies were followed by track and rowing events at cate bridge competition held at St. Andrew’s Epis- Thomas Jefferson Community Center in Arlington copal Church in Arlington. and diving competition at Yorktown High School Aquatic Center. — Shirley Ruhe

Photo by Tom Manning/ The Gazette ABOVE: Bob Shellhouse of Alexandria and Wayne Bell show off their medals following the 80-89 age group finals match on Sept. 14. Shellhouse won gold by defeating Bell 8-3 (8 game pro set) in the championship held at Wakefield District Park in Annandale.

Mark Harris sporting his gold medal for breastroke.

2 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ Senior Living Fall 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Open House, Tuesday, October 11 - 10:30, Sherwood Regional Library

Photo by Shirley Ruhe/The Gazette The Senior Olympics Spelling Bee, held at Lee Community Center on Lee Highway in Arlington, rounded out the 12 days of competition in the Northern Virginia Senior Olympics from Sept. 10-21.

2016/2017 SEASON

OCT. 22 – NOV. 12, 2016 ▲

DEC. 2 – 17, 2016 ▲

JAN. 14 – FEB. 18, 2017 ▲ Photo by Tom Manning/ The Gazette Senior Olympics FEB. 25 – MAR. 13, 2017 ▲ Football Throw Clarence John Wells-Mar- APR. 22 – MAY 13, 2017 ▲ tin, 70, strikes a winning pose after setting a new record in the Football Throw event on Sept. 14 at Wakefield District Park in JUN. 3 – 24, 2017 ▲ Annandale in the 70-74 age group with a distance of 115’ 2”. Wells-Martin beat the previous record of 104’ 3” that was set in 2012.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ Senior Living Fall 2016 ❖ 3 Senior Living Regaining Mobility Local orthopedic surgeons offer keys for successful joint replacement surgery.

By Marilyn Campbell tend medical appoints with a pa- The Connection tient prior to surgery, serve as their point of contact the day of surgery ired of the limited mo and provide morale support bility and pain that throughout the recovery process. Thave thwarted her love “The more eyes and ears in ad- of foreign travel and dition to the patient’s, the better,” fall hiking, Lynda S. Johnson, 72, said Engh, explaining why it’s so scheduled a knee replacement sur- helpful to have someone with the gery for later this month. She patient at appointments and chose a doctor, found a pet sitter throughout the recovery. “We ap- to watch her Cairn terrier, and proach things that we have to do enlisted her sister to live with her with set expectations, and some- while she recovers. times those expectations can keep “I had been debating for months us from hearing other things. Hav- about whether to have it,” she ing another person there is a good said. “I was in so much pain, reality check and note taker.” though, that I don’t really think I The coach should be able to have anything to lose.” spend a significant amount of time For Johnson and approximately with the patient during the early 7 million other Americans living recovery period. “That person can with a hip or knee replacement, expect to be with you 16 hours a the decision to undergo such a day for two to five days after sur- surgery is fueled by a quest for less gery,” said Engh. “I don’t want pain, more mobility and an over- someone alone by themselves all all boost to their quality of life. day during work hours. The coach Nearly 90 percent of patients or advocate is like a safety mar- who have knee replacement sur- shal who keeps the patient safe gery experience less pain and 85 and reminds them to take their percent of the replacement joints time during their recovery.” still work after 20 years, accord- Dr. George Aguiar, an orthope- ing to the National Institute of dic surgeon at Reston Hospital Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Center, advises patients to deter- Skin Diseases. Mºost patients will mine how they will get help with feel better, and feel better quickly. grocery shopping, transportation, Addressing overall health issues pet care and house cleaning in like high blood pressure, diabetes advance. “Having these types of and obesity can boost the chances things handled before you go into that a joint replacement surgery surgery can only help the recov- will be successful, says Dr. C. ery process.” Anderson “Andy” Engh orthopedic Patients should plan ahead to surgeon, Anderson Orthopedic safety-proof. “Do everything you Clinic at Inova Mount Vernon. can do to avoid a fall within the “Work on both your overall health first two to three months after your and conditioning,” he said. surgery,” said Engh. “Have clear Patients should be up and out pathways and be aware of rugs of their hospital beds as soon as that can catch your feet. Have possible. “Patients are walking good, secure handrails on stair- with assistance hours after their ways to help prevent falls.” surgery. The reason patients do Timing also plays a role in the better when they get up and move success of joint replacement sur- around is that they decrease the geries. “Some patients ask if risk of pneumonia and blood they’re too old to have surgery,” clots,” said Dr. Mark P. Madden, an said Engh. “Don’t wait until you’re orthopedic surgeon with home bound to have this surgery OrthoVirginia. “We start out with because the recovery will be quite patients using a walker and hav- long.” ing someone assist them in walk- To decide whether joint replace- ing, and they generally progress to ment surgery is the best option, become fully weight bearing with- says Madden, work with a physi- out any assistance at all.” cian and weigh the effect the pain Also, have a support system in is having on one’s quality of life. place prior to surgery, whether it’s “There’s no right answer for ev- a significant other, grown child or ery patient,” said Madden. “The close friend. Often dubbed coach real answer is to work with your or advocate, that person might at- doctor to find the right treatment.”

4 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ Senior Living Fall 2016 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com