Alexandria Wellbeing Gazette Packet Page 28 25 Cents Serving Alexandria for over 200 years • A Connection Newspaper February 2, 2012 Lenny Harris: From Missing to Murdered Maryland man confesses to crime; three or four more suspects remain on the loose.

By Michael Lee Pope Gazette Packet

Photo by ithin hours of upgrad- Wing the Lenny Harris Photo by missing person case to Max Deutsch a homicide investigation, the Prince George’s County Police De-

Louise Krafft partment announced the arrest of one man Tuesday afternoon, Jan. 31, and say they’re still looking for three or four more individuals.

Zumba for Good Cause Monday night, officers picked up /Gazette Packet More than 100 participants danced Zumba through the late afternoon on Sunday at 49-year-old Linwood Johnson of the Carlyle Club. The event benefitted local charities through ACT’s Running Brooke Oxon Hill, Md., for questioning. Fund. More photos, story on page 4. He eventually confessed to the murder and is now facing first- degree murder charges. “It appears that the victim and Lenny Harris suspect in this case were known Up, Up and Away to each other, so this was not a shortly after 1 a.m. the day after complete stranger or random mur- he went missing. A few days later, der,” said Corporal Henry Tippett, the Alexandria Police Department Move to the “cloud” reaps Digital Cities Award. public information officer for the issued five more photographs of a Prince George’s white Dodge By Jeanne Theismann the 2011 Easter holiday weekend of Alexandria’s IT system when it County Police Caravan that Gazette Packet was approaching. Named Qakbot, was discovered. Department. “I think Lenny’s was caught on it had already infiltrated the data “Moving to the cloud is what “Robbery ap- legacy will be for surveillance t appeared without warning, of state and local agencies across saved us from Qakbot,” said Chief pears to the be cameras during Ia deadly computer virus that the nation and was aggressively Information Officer Tom the motive in people, particularly an attempt to was spreading quickly just as working its way through the City Trobridge, who only a few months the case at this use Harris’ earlier had led the city’s data mi- point.” young people, to credit card. gration to the Microsoft Office 365 Harris was a Prince George’s cloud servers. “It was a special ef- prominent civic become more County Police fort by everyone involved but by activist in Alex- Department of- that Tuesday we had isolated it andria who positive advocates.” ficials are also Photo by and killed it with no loss of pro- went missing in — Mayor Bill Euille in possession of ductivity and no damage to files.” September. The the firearm The vision and work of Alexandria Police Department im- used in the murder, although they

Jeanne Theismann Trobridge and his team were a key mediately initiated a critical miss- won’t say where it was recovered. component of the 2011 Digital ing person case and issued a se- “This individual is being charged Cities Award presented to the city ries of photographs showing a with first-degree murder,” said Jan. 24 by the Center for Digital muscular black male who used Tippett. “Whether he is the actual Government. Harris’ credit card on King Street See Police, Page 7 “We finished in a tie for 3rd

place,” Trobridge said. “The city

/Gazette Packet 22314 VA exandria, Al

has finished in the top six every St., King 1604 To:

ted year since 2005, but this is the Reques Service Address

city’s best finish since 2007 when material. Time-sensitive

we also finished in a tie for 3rd.” Postmaster:

Trobridge is no stranger to cri- Attention

sis IT management. A graduate of #482 Permit

Alexandria, VA Alexandria,

City of Alexandria Chief Information Officer Tom Virginia Military Institute, the 25- PAID

U.S. Postage U.S. Trobridge has moved the city’s IT infrastructure into year Army veteran and retired STD PRSRT the “cloud.” See Move, Page 7 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Week in Alexandria News Iron Ladies of Old Town The controversial waterfront small-area plan may have squeaked through City Hall on a five-to-two vote last month, but a final resolution could be months away. That’s because a handful of opponents are girding for a fight, although the time and location The com- have yet to be worked out. bined staff of At the center of the action are three Alexandria residents sup- ACVA, AEDP porters have taken to calling the “Iron Ladies of Old Town,” April and SBDC Burke, Marie Kux and Beth Gibney. They own property ad- gather in the jacent to the rezoned properties and are among the hundreds of reception people who signed a protest petition requesting that a area Jan. 18 supermajority of six votes should be required to pass the plan, /Gazette Packet during the which increased density at three sites on the waterfront. Along open house with two other Alexandria residents who do not own property for ACVA’s adjacent to the rezoned properties, Mark Mueller and water- new offices front plan work group member Bert Ely, the gang of five has at 625 N. hired attorney Roy Shannon to lead the charge. Washington

But their course has yet to be charted. Jeanne Theismann St. One scenario would involve going directly to Alexandria Cir- cuit Court, arguing that the group has already filed an appeal of a determination that the protest petition requesting a supermajority is not valid. Shannon attempted to present the by Photo appeal to Planning Director Faroll Hamer during the water- front public hearing, but city officials say the government is not “open for business” during public hearings. Shannon could argue that the appeal was rightfully presented but city officials refused New Home for ACVA to accept it because it could have delayed the vote. Another sce- nario would be to present the appeal to planning officials once Tourism group joins ness Development Council (SBDC). “AEDP did a good again and wait for a hearing before the Board of Zoning Appeals. job of preparing for us. We just picked up our files “We’re about to begin a major fundraising effort on their behalf “Alphabet City” at and arrived.” to help raise money for the legal bills,” said former Vice Mayor The new offices are part of the mixed use retail Andrew Macdonald, a co-chairman of Citizens for an Alterna- 625 N. Washington St. block of North Washington Street that houses Trader tive Alexandria Waterfront Plan. “We obviously disagree with the Joe’s, Talbots and FedEx. AEDP first moved into the vote, and this is our way of staying involved with the issue.” he Alexandria Convention and Visitors As- space last summer and SBDC followed Sept. 1. sociation officially welcomed visitors to “We were fortunate to find a space that fit each Baker’s New Gig Tits new offices at 625 N. Washington St. organization’s needs yet still allows us to collabo- with an open house reception Jan. 18. rate,” said AEDP president and CEO Val Hawkins. Although he’s been flirting with a campaign for City Council “It feels like home,” said ACVA president and CEO “There’s a good synergy with all of us working here for months, former Police Chief David Baker has decided against Stephanie Brown of the office space the organiza- together.” throwing his hat into the ring this year. Baker said it was a diffi- tion now shares with the Alexandria Economic De- cult decision, but one that was prompted by his new gig at velopment Partnership (AEDP) and the Small Busi- — Jeanne Theismann Goodwin House, where he has been promoted from director of security to director of operations. During a brief interview in his new office, which includes some mementos from his time as the city’s top cop, Baker said Going Wireless at City Hall “I knew when I took this job that it meant I wouldn’t be able to run for the City Council,” he said. “It was a tough decision, but The feasibility study will explore how much ac- this was too good an opportunity to pass up.” Wi-Fi project returns. cess should be granted to the public and when it Baker cuts a distinctive figure at Goodwin House, a retirement should be available. Part of the concern is that city facility on the city’s West End. The former chief has always been By Michael Lee Pope officials want to avoid transforming City Hall into a a meticulous dresser, and his old uniform has been replaced by a Gazette Packet wireless café, where members of the general public crisp business suit. Supporters at City Hall liked to say that Baker could show up and set up camp in the Vola Lawson looked as though he had been sent from central casting to star in ere’s a paradox for the digital age: When Lobby to surf the Internet. On the other hand, offi- a police drama. Now he seems entirely at ease directing opera- members of the Alexandria City Council cials now recognize the need to provide access dur- tions at Goodwin House, a job that was created specifically for H were presented with the Digital Cities ing City Council meetings and public hearings. But Baker. Award from Government Technology Magazine last officials haven’t yet figured out if they want to offer “I would have run as someone who understands government week, members of the public who were in attendance access during meetings of the Traffic and Parking from the inside out,” he said, adding that he may still consider a would have had a difficult time sending an email Board or the Planning Commission. campaign in the future. “I suppose there’s always the next elec- about it or update their Facebook status. That’s be- “Technically, I can have wireless access in there,” tion cycle.” cause City Hall does not offer publicly accessible said Trobridge. “How we use it and when we use it wireless Internet service. are questions that we have to work out within the Double Dipping At least not yet. city.” Part of the application for the Digital Cities Award Here’s a tip for all the government workers out there — don’t included a passage vowing to extend the city’s wire- THIS IS NOT the first time that Alexandria has double dip. Take it from 52-year-old Jeffrey Armstrong of South less access to include guest access “at certain loca- dipped its toe in the world of wireless access, al- Riding who held concurrent jobs at the United Nations and the tions” to non-city employees for business purposes though a previous attempt floundered into a state of National Labor Relations Board. Last week, the Eastern District in 2011. Chief Information Officer Tom Trobridge disrepair. Back in August 2005, city officials launched of Virginia in Alexandria sentenced him to 18 months in prison says City Hall was not on the list of locations, at least a pilot project known as Wireless Alexandria. Four for taking more than $100,000 in salary payments by fraudu- until the presentation of the award drew attention wireless access points were set up along King Street, lently holding two jobs at once. to the lack of publicly accessible Wi-Fi in the council and the city opened up publicly accessible outdoor According to evidence presented at the trial, Armstrong con- chambers. Since that time, Trobridge has launched Internet access from Washington Street to the city cealed his dual employment from both employers by submitting a feasibility study to find out what would be involved marina. It was considered such a success that the incomplete forms and taking medical leave from one job while to provide Internet access at City Hall. city put out bids for a franchise agreement to create he was working the other. “We do not have the kind of wireless access in the a citywide wireless network that was eventually — Michael Lee Pope city that I think we should have,” said Trobridge. awarded to Atlanta-based EarthLink in late 2006. “There are plans to expand to City Hall, and this is a “The CEO of EarthLink died about two weeks af project I’m getting ready to intensely manage.” See Wireless at City Hall, Page 5 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 3 People

Zumba Explosion Photo by Running Brooke

Fund raises $5,700 Louise Krafft for local charities. Photo by

By Jeanne Theismann /Gazette Packet Gazette Packet Jeanne Theismann

or Dave Lucchesi, it didn’t matter that he was the Fonly male on a dance floor that was otherwise filled with women. Instead, he saw it as a chance to /Gazette Packet try something new and raise money for a good cause at the same time. “The closest I ever came to Zumba was watching a video on YouTube before I came Marathon runner Brooke Curran is flanked by the X-Factor team here,” Lucchesi said during a break of Jeanine Bennis, Kaesha Matthews, Zabrime Watson and Geneza Zumba Explosion, a fundraiser for ACT’s Simoes. Running Brooke Fund held Jan. 29 at the Elizabeth and Dave Lucchesi take a Carlyle Club. “This has been a thoroughly break during Zumba Explosion at fund, has donated more than $111,000 to Local nonprofits benefitting from Zumba enjoyable experience.” the Carlyle Club. The Jan. 29 event Alexandria-based charities since 2009. Explosion and the Running Brooke Fund Lucchesi joined his wife Elizabeth, a co- benefitted local charities through Curran will participate in the Austin include ACTion Alexandria, Child & Family sponsor of the event, and more than 90 ACT’s Running Brooke Fund. marathon later this month before heading Network Centers, Community Lodgings, other participants for an afternoon of non- south — way south — for her March run. Girls on the Run NOVA and The Reading stop Zumba provided by instructors from charities. “She knew I wanted to do some- “I leave for Antarctica on March 1 and Connection. X-Factor Fitness. thing here at the club. We raised $5,740 we are scheduled to run on the 9th if the “Arlene [Hewitt] was the one who came and had a lot of fun.” weather holds out,” Curran said. “I am very For more information or to donate to the up with the idea,” said Brooke Curran, Curran, who has committed to running a excited. This will be the final ‘continent’ to Running Brooke Fund, visit founder of the fund that benefits five local marathon a month to raise money for the check off my list.” www.runningbrooke.com.

4 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Working on Publicly Accessible Wireless at City Hall

From Page 3 residents would receive $13 million worth offered publicly accessible wireless Internet ter council awarded the franchise,” said of services over an eight-year period with- from Washington Street to the waterfront. IN THE COMING YEAR, Alexandria resi- Craig Fifer, deputy director of communica- out contributing a dime. For simply allow- “It’s fallen into what you might call a state dents might expanded access. Trobridge tions for the city government. “They decided ing EarthLink access to the city’s infrastruc- of disrepair, and it needs to be reconfigured said he’s identified $40,000 to find some that the cost of settling the franchise agree- ture, taxpayers would gain hundreds of and some of the equipment replaced be- kind of wireless solution at City Hall, and ments and walking away from them would wireless accounts and 24 public hotspots. cause it’s been sitting outside now for six Fifer said installing the hardware from be cheaper than the cost of actually fulfill- When EarthLink walked away from the of seven years,” said Fifer. “We have the EarthLink is on the work plan for this year. ing them.” municipal market, other providers became equipment to do that that we actually re- By this time next year, Old Town might fi- In many respects, it was a deal that was reluctant and the city was unable to create ceived through the settlement with nally have the kind of publicly accessible literally too good to be true: Alexandria was another franchise agreement. That left Al- EarthLink, but we’ve not had the staff time wireless access that’s been talked about for going to get something for nothing. City exandria with a six-block pilot project that and other resources to finish deploying it.” years.

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9538 Airdrie Lane, Fredericksburg, VA 22408 *This is only an estimate which assumes a 20% down payment and a 3.75% mortgage for 30 years. Prices and terms subject to change without notice. See Sales Consultant for details. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 5 News ‘The World Is Our Market’ “I’d like to see the Chamber Palmieri to chair grow through a combination of Chamber of membership numbers as well as Photo by demographics,” Palmieri said. Commerce. “The world is our market here. The world does business here and

Jeanne Theismann By Jeanne Theismann while the small businesses are the Gazette Packet backbone of our economy, it’s the larger businesses that can support hen Andrew us economically so that we have Palmieri first the resources to help the small moved to Alex- brick and mortar shops.” W /Gazette Packet andria in 1985, Palmieri takes over at a time of he and two roommates struggled transition for the Chamber. Former each month to pay the rent on CEO Tina Leone resigned in De- their West End apartment. cember after two years in that po- “We were barely making ends sition and a search has been un- meet,” said Palmieri as he reflected derway for her replacement. back on his early years in the city. “We’re very close to making a Andrew Palmieri, speaking “I was in my second year of law decision,” Palmieri said. “We hope at the ABC’s of Business school and since that time, I’ve to have an announcement prior to forum Jan. 26, will take lived in pretty much or in conjunction over as Chairman of the every part of Alexan- with the Gala but Online ballot for the Chamber of Commerce Giving Back Board of the Chamber of dria.” aren’t going to sacri- Gala. Individuals do not need to be a member of the “My goal is to Commerce at the No longer a strug- fice the quality of our Chamber or attend the Gala to vote for their favorite Chairman’s Gala Feb. 11 at gling law student, search to meet a charity. Vote at www.alexchamber.com. continue to the Westin Hotel. the noted partner deadline. This was a with Saul Ewing LLP grow the nationwide search Rebuilding Together Alexandria is consistently listed and we had more and the United Way. as one of the top law- Chamber as than 90 applicants.” “It was important to Andrew ‘Vote Early, Vote Often’ yers in the region Palmieri will take that the Chamber send the right of the five charities as they like. and was named an advocacy the reins of the tone to the community,” said Gala Chamber Gala “On the Chamber homepage, among the 2011 In- force in the Chamber from chair Adron Krekeler. “He wanted gives back to there is a link to register to vote,” ternational Who’s “Mango” Mike the focus of the Gala to be about Krekeler said. “You do not need to Who of Real Estate city and the Anderson at the tra- giving back rather than on his tak- local nonprofits. be a member of the Chamber or Lawyers. On Feb 11, ditional Chairman’s ing over the leadership.” attend the Gala to vote for your he will add the title region.” Gala Feb. 11 at the One message Palmieri wants to he 2012 Chamber of Com- favorite charity.” of Chairman of the — Chamber of Westin Hotel. be clear on is politics. Tmerce Chairman’s Gala Charities participating in the Board of the Alexan- “This year it will be “We are definitely a non-parti- will for the first time serve online voting are: The Animal dria Chamber of Commerce board the ‘Giving Back’ san organization,” Palmieri said. as a fundraiser for five local non- Welfare League of Alexandria, Commerce to his re- chairman Andrew Gala,” Palmieri said. “We don’t get involved in politics, profit organizations through an Carpenter’s Shelter, the Campagna sume. Palmieri “I wanted to do we get involved in issues and online voting campaign through Center, Rebuilding Together Alex- “I’m very excited something that sometimes those issues, like the the Chamber’s website. andria and the United Way. about my new role,” said Palmieri, would highlight the great work of waterfront, are hard decisions to “‘Vote early, vote often’ is our “All five charities will be guests who previously served as the chair the charitable organizations in the make.” motto,” said Gala chairman Adron at the Gala,” Krekeler said. “This of the Chamber’s government re- community and show that the As he settles into his leadership Krekeler. “Through the Chamber’s is a great way for the Chamber and lations committee. “My goal is to Chamber supports those organiza- role, Palmieri is looking forward foundation, every donation is tax the local charities to be engaged continue to grow the Chamber as tions.” to the year ahead. deductible and every dollar will go with one another and we hope to an advocacy force in the city and Five local nonprofits were se- “We’re going to have a great to the charity that you are voting see it continue every year.” the region.” lected by the Chamber board as year,” Palmieri said. “My biggest for.” Visit www.alexchamber.com for Palmieri, who has been a mem- beneficiaries of an online voting goal is to have the Chamber be an Online voting is open through more information and to vote in ber of the Chamber since 2007, campaign: The Animal Welfare even better organization when Feb. 9 at www.alexchamber.com. the Giving Back Gala campaign. hopes to increase the relevancy of League of Alexandria, Carpenter’s [John] Renner takes over from me Each vote costs $10 and donors the Chamber in the community. Shelter, the Campagna Center, this time next year.” can vote as often and for as many — Jeanne Theismann Register Now! Celebrate Valentine’s Day February Guest Speakers with the Romance of Italy The Spice & Tea Echange of Alexandria Featuring romantic Valentine’s music with Besty Rudefer & Herb Greenlee on piano. Three-course Dinner with Champagne or House Wine Guest Chef, Health Coach & Herbalist, A Red Rose and Chocolates for the Couple Yasmine Sandhu Trish McCauley Sweet Treats for Nutritionista Series: Boosting Special • Linguini Mare Nostrum Your Sweetheart Your Immune System Jazz Wednesday Menu • Veal Scaloppini St. Valentino Style Tuesday, Feb 7th Saturday, Feb11, Includes: • Filetto di Salmone al Caviar 6:30-8:30pm 10-11:30am Bring a Mug! Nights Reservations required. with Bob Williams Call or email the store: 571-312-8505 or [email protected] on the Piano Don’t miss Chef Series: $35 in advance, $40 day of event. Nutritionista: $12 class, $30 for a 3-pack to the 6-part series. Piano Entertainment Opera Night Additional Information on 2012 Classes & Saturday Nights Sunday, Demonstrations check Facebook: SpiceAndTeaAlexandria with Anya February 26th 320 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 - Across from City Hall! 305 S. Washington Street • Old Town • 703-548-9338 • www.trattoriadafranco.com 6 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Police Make Arrest in Lenny Harris Murder From Page 1 One Love Festival. Last summer, he orga- gunman who pulled the trigger, we are nized public-housing residents who were not prepared to release those details yet.” upset about concerns raised by residents in

Photo by north Old Town. SINCE LAST SUMMER, friends and sup- “When he saw me on the street he would porters of Harris have been hoping and tell me to go home or he would call my praying that he would show up. During a Michael Lee Pope mother,” said Wayne Boggan, a longtime candlelight vigil in September, hundreds friend. “I’ve always thought of Lenny Har- arrived and formed a circle in the George ris as the backbone of Alexandria.” Washington Middle School field. Several The anonymous tip leading Prince participants said they expected he would George’s fire and police officials initiated a turn up any day, some even wondered if he firestorm of speculation in Alexandria. would show up at the rally and surprise /Gazette Packet Could this finally be the answer? That everyone. speculation was fueled by the participation Those hopes came crashing down over the of Alexandria officials in the investigation. weekend, when the Prince George’s County But making an identification would have Police Department identified a body at the to wait. Before the team could excavate the bottom of a 25-foot well as Harris. Respond- well, preparations had to be made to make ing to an anonymous tip, police officers dis- Hundreds gathered for a candlelight for Lenny Harris in September. sure that the surrounding area wasn’t dam- covered a dead body in a well and launched aged by the operation. That meant waiting an investigation on Thursday, Jan. 26. For to the well or shot at the well. to track down his whereabouts — issuing a until Saturday. the safety of investigators and logistical “We’re trying to piece this together,” said release saying he was last seen driving a “Logistically, it was impossible for them constraints involving the well, the body was Corporal Mike Rodriguez. “We don’t know 1994 light blue Toyota Corolla. to immediately go in there and remove the not extracted until Saturday, Jan. 28. what led to the death of Mr. Harris. We do “I just lost it when I found out he was body,” said Rodriguez. “It took a while.” “This is certainly not the outcome that know that he did sustain a gunshot wound missing,” said Rhonda Taylor, who attended A memorial service is planned for Mon- anyone would have expected, and it’s very and somehow was placed in the well.” Robert E. Lee Elementary School with Har- day at Greater Mount Cavalry Holy Church shocking,” said Mayor Bill Euille. “When he ris in the mid-1960s. “It’s surreal. I still don’t in Washington, D.C., where family members went missing, the question was who would HARRIS WAS FIRST reported missing on know what to think.” will receive guests. No public viewing is do something like this and why. Those ques- Sept. 21. That was the day the well-known Harris, 53, was a lifelong Alexandria resi- scheduled because his body will be cre- tions are still what all of us are waiting to civic activist seemed to vanish into thin air. dent who was well known in the city, where mated. A separate Alexandria memorial get some answers to.” News spread quickly through the commu- he has devoted his life to organizing mem- service is being planned for Monday, al- For now, police say they don’t have any nity. When he didn’t show up at an event at bers of the African-American community though details have yet to be worked out at answers. A spokesman for the Prince the Alexandria jail where he was supposed and public-housing residents. He’s best press time. George’s County police department said that to be part of a program to inspire inmates known for founding a nonprofit known as “I think Lenny’s legacy will be for people, the medical examiner’s office has deter- the next day, people began wondering what Operation H.O.P.E., although he was also particularly young people, to become more mined that Harris died of a gunshot wound, had happened. His wallet was later found part of countless other charitable organiza- positive advocates,” said Euille, “not only but it’s unclear if he died before or after on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. By the end tions and causes. He owned a pest-control for themselves but for everyone in terms of being placed in the well. It’s also unclear if of that week, the Alexandria Police Depart- service known as U Can Trust Pest and Ter- coming together and making certain that he was shot at a different location and taken ment was looking for help from the public mite Service, and he founded the annual his efforts won’t be left in vain.” Move to the ‘Cloud’ Reaps Digital Cities Award From Page 1 Trobridge said. “Implementing the new colonel has extensive experience provid- CAD [computer aided dispatch] will be huge ing IT and electronic communications sup- and we have to operationalize a collabora- Digital Cities repre- port to the nation’s Special Operations tive environment across the network.” sentative Asif Iqbal, forces and was stationed at the Pentagon Alexandria has been collaborating with left, presents the when the 9/11 attacks occurred. Arlington and Fairfax counties to implement Digital Cities Award “The communications teams performed CAD, a multi-agency, multi-jurisdiction to Alexandria CIO spectacularly on 9/11 in maintaining com- mutual aid response system. Tom Trobridge and munications after the attack on the Penta- “Tom and his department also consoli- Mayor Bill Euille gon,” said Admiral Edmund Giambastiani Jeanne Theismann dated the city’s own emergency dispatch during the Jan. 24 (ret.), the former vice chairman of the Joint services,” said Joanne Munroe, director of City Council meeting. Chiefs of Staff. “Colonel Trobridge exem- the Department of Emergency Communi- plified the many within the IT and commu- cations. “This was a much-needed improve-

Photo by Photo nication commands in the Pentagon that disaster recovery posture.” sion and dedication to implement the ment that upgraded the fire, police and EMS were so effective in maintaining connectiv- Other jurisdictions, including New York sweeping IT changes that have taken place. systems to better serve the needs of the com- ity.” City, have followed Alexandria into the “I’m very proud of the people in my de- munity.” Now in his fifth year with the city, Microsoft cloud but as Trobridge likes to partment,” Trobridge said. “They are re- While Trobridge and his department do Trobridge and his team led Alexandria to remind people, “We were there first.” markable. Since 2008, my department has not interact directly with city residents, his become the first jurisdiction in Virginia to “Microsoft is trying to transform their been cut from 60 to 40 people and we’re future vision will have an impact on indi- migrate to the Microsoft cloud. company from the premier software com- doing so much more now than we ever did. vidual citizens. “The migration to Microsoft’s cloud has pany to an IT service company,” Trobridge The residents of Alexandria have no idea “We have some opportunities to achieve fundamentally changed the IT service de- said. “The lessons Microsoft learned from how hard they work or what value they get greater efficiencies in the way we organize livery model for the city,” said Trobridge, Alexandria helped them develop the pro- from so few.” and deliver IT services to the city,” Trobridge who researched alternatives, including cesses necessary to migrate their major com- According to Trobridge, 2012 is expected said. “I’m looking forward to putting more Google, before making the decision to go mercial accounts to Office 365. We were in to be another transformational year for the city services online and accessible through with Microsoft. “As a result of our move to essence their crash test dummies and helped city’s IT operations. mobile applications so residents can use the cloud, we’re saving money, working them identify their own organizational “In the next 18 months, the ERP [enter- them at their convenience. In the end, it’s more efficiently and enabling shortfalls.” prise resource planning] system is going to really not about the technology at all. It’s telecommuting while reducing our carbon Trobridge credits his staff, led by Deputy be the most important thing we do, but it all about improving the city’s ability to do footprint and improving our security and Director Shelly Ryan, with having the vi- won’t be the only important thing we do,” business.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 7 News In Session Rejecting Equality Should the Commonwealth of Virginia be able to discrimi- Budgeting for Crisis nate against gays when hiring employees? Freshman state Sen. Adam Ebbin (D-30) says no, but his colleagues in Republi-

Photo by can-led state Senate disagree. This week, Ebbin presented a Community service bill to the Senate General Laws and Technology Committee that would have prohibited discrimination in state hiring on the basis boards push legislators to

of sexual identity. The measure failed on a 8-to-7 party-line Michael Lee Pope vote. create five crisis centers. “I can’t say I’m really all that surprised given the makeup of the committee now that the Republicans are in control,” said By Michael Lee Pope Ebbin. Gazette Packet A similar measure was passed by the Democratic-led Senate

last year, although it was rejected by the Republican-led House ohnny is a 13-year-old student at school in /Gazette Packet of Delegates. JNorthern Virginia. He’s been acting out lately, Now, with Republicans in control of both chambers, the ef- running away and confronting other children fort seems increasingly unlikely to pass. But that doesn’t mean on the playground. One day he punches another stu- that Democrats have given up on the issue. Del. Ken Plum dent in the nose and the parents of that student press (D-36) has introduced similar legislation in the House. charges. After he’s found guilty of assault, Johnny “Opponents say this is not a problem and that they want to reportedly becomes depressed and starts talking Community services boards across see some kind of example,” said Ebbin. “My response to that is about suicide. His parents take him to the hospital, Virginia are pushing for a $12.7 million how would we know if there’s discrimination if there’s currently but Johnny is not welcomed. appropriation to fund five crisis no prohibition. People would be afraid to speak out.” Lori Meyer of the Alexandria Community Services centers for children throughout Board explains the process. She says one of the first the commonwealth. questions that’s asked is, ‘’Does the child have a crimi- Dominion Over Calendars nal court history or any charges?’ This is followed For those keeping score, mark one for King’s Dominion. That’s by, ‘If so, what are the charges?’ and whether it was FUNDING A $16.3 MILLION initiative won’t be the popular and powerful amusement park that holds a strange assault and battery. If yes, they cannot accept the easy in the current budget environment. Englin said power over school officials across Virginia. child. one potential way to fund the initiative would be Since the 1980s, school divisions across the commonwealth What happens next? Johnny might be able to get decreasing tax breaks for corporations, an effort that have been forbidden from beginning classes before Labor Day into the closest crisis center in Leesburg, but his par- Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell opposes. Englin said because of a mandate known as the King’s Dominion Law. Al- ents have a hard time getting back if Virginia reduces the tax deduction though Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell expressed support and forth. on domestic production from 6 per- for ending the longstanding requirement, Republicans in the Meyer explains that a lot of these “Basically, the cent to 3 percent, an extra $30 mil- state Senate haven’t given up on it yet. Last week, a Senate parents are on the cusp of the pov- lion would be available for funding panel rejected the idea. erty line, so they often don’t have farther away you the child crisis centers. Advocates say But Del. David Englin (D-45) says the fight is not over yet. enough funds for transportation. As it’s a worthy investment. “We have another bite at the apple when the House version a result, the parents are not as in- send a kid the “In the long run, this will save tax- goes to the Senate,” said Englin. “Not only is it a priority for volved with the treatment as they payers money,” said Michael Alexandria and it’s one of my priorities going in the session, could be if a crisis center were closer worse it is.” Gilmore, executive director of the Al- but it also happens to be a priority of the governor.” to home. — Judith Deane exandria Community Services Board. The House version of the bill has a huge list of legislators “So when the child came home, it “If we don’t intervene in the lives of who have signed up to be co-patrons of the bill, indicating wide- was great for about a week, and because of the lack these children, they’ll end up in the criminal justice spread and bipartisan support for the measure. Englin said that of involvement by the family and the community ser- system, which will be much more expensive in the may mean it will have some momentum if it can get to the vices, unfortunately, the child starts to decompen- long run.” other side of the Capitol. sate,” said Meyer. On the other side of the Capitol, state Sen. Janet “The folks I talk to in the administration are hopeful that we Howell (D-32) has introduced a matching budget can get the House version out and over to the Senate,” he said. RECENT YEARS have seen a growing trend among amendment. She said she would fund it by using “And they’re hopeful that when the House version goes over social service providers for keeping children in crisis some of the money McDonnell has proposed taking there, we’ll be able to still get it passed.” as close to their families and communities as pos- out of the general fund to pay for transportation sible. The old model of shipping children off to resi- projects. Amendment Ridicule dential facilities far away has diminished over time “This is not money that’s currently for transporta- as experts have realized that family and community tion. It’s money that is currently for education, hu- One of the frequent Republican tactics to undermine women’s involvement play an important role in helping chil- man services and public safety,” said Howell. “This right to choose is to require that they undergo an ultrasound dren emerge from crisis situations. amount of money, $110 million, will pay for almost before having an abortion. It’s an evergreen topic in Richmond, “Basically, the farther away you send a kid the nothing statewide whereas we could really do good and it always sparks some of the hottest moments during the worse it is,” said Judith Deane, member of the Ar- for children that desperately need some services.” session. During a Senate session this week, state Sen. Janet lington Community Services Board. “There’s more Howell (D-32) added a new wrinkle to the debate, offering of a perception now that you really do get the best THE GOVERNOR HAS recognized the need for an amendment to a Senate bill requiring ultrasounds for abor- results by keeping the kids as close to home as pos- increasing services for children in crisis, and his pro- tions. Her amendment would have required a rectal exam and sible.” posed budget includes $500,000 for two mobile cri- cardiac stress test before obtaining a prescription for erectile This week, Del. David Englin (D-45) presented a sis teams. Mental health experts say the mobile units dysfunction. budget amendment to an appropriations subcommit- are for children who are in a lower level of crisis, “I was trying to use ridicule to express my disdain for the tee to fund a $16.3 million initiative that would cre- essentially before they need to check into a residen- bill,” said Howell. “Some people are saying it should go into ate five children’s mental health crisis response units. tial crisis center. Many mental health professionals the amendment hall of fame.” Englin said that the effort was well received in the say both are needed — the mobile units to help chil- Although the amendment failed on a 21-to19 vote, the effort subcommittee because many of the members have dren before the situation escalates and the crisis cen- gained national attention. already heard about the effort from their local com- ters to handle problems that have become intrac- “I’ve gotten hundreds of emails from all over the county,” she munity services boards, many of which have identi- table. said. “I think I’ve hit a chord, and it’s interesting because it’s fied the crisis centers as a top legislative goal for the “In the behavioral health-care continuum, one of both men and women who are writing me.” session. The only problem is finding the money. the areas that we’ve identified as a gap in services is “It’s a very opaque process,” said Englin. “At some the ability to have crisis treatment for children,” said point in the process, they go behind closed doors Heather Stowe, director of social services in Arling- — Michael Lee Pope and horse trade and then appropriators come out ton County. “If you look at some of our neighboring with what they’ve decided to do with the budget and jurisdictions in Maryland or in D.C., they have both you hope your amendment made it through.” physical crisis facilities and also mobile crisis teams.” 8 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com People A Fond Farewell Reception honors Harry Covert’s service. By Jeanne Theismann Gazette Packet

he Alexandria Sheriff’s Courtesy photo/ACVA Tdepartment bid fare- well to Public Informa- tion Officer Harry Covert with a Jan. 5 reception at the William G. Truesdale Detention Center that was attended by law en- forcement and public safety per- Sheriff Dana Lawhorne, sonnel from across the city. right, presents Harry “This is a sad day for us be- Covert a plaque of appre- ABC’s of Alexandria speakers included Andrew Palmieri, Stephanie Landrum, Val cause Harry is leaving,” said ciation for his service to Hawkins, Stephanie Pace Brown, Sharon Eddy, Maria Wasowski, Carol Supplee, City Sheriff Dana Lawhorne, who the department. Manager Rashad Young, Kay Tyler and Bill Reagan. hired Covert for the position he created five years ago. “People he has been a wonderful friend don’t just say what a great guy to all of us.” Harry is, they say what a great Chief Magistrate George Ball The ABC’s of Alexandria friend he is and we will miss joked that “Harry’s the young- him very much.” est old man I know. He is not New city manager tendees included City Council members Del Pepper Several of those in atten- just good for the sheriff’s de- and Frank Fannon along with members of neighbor- dance paid tribute to Covert’s partment, he has been good for highlights business forum. hood business groups and small business owners. service to the department. everyone and I am glad to have Program presenters included Andrew Palmieri, Al- By Jeanne Theismann “Harry transformed our of- known him.” exandria Chamber of Commerce; Stephanie Landrum Gazette Packet fice,” said Commander Mondre’ Former N.Y. Daily News re- and Val Hawkins, Alexandria Economic Development Kornegay. “His goodwill and porter James Meek returned to Partnership; Stephanie Pace Brown, Alexandria Con- way of making everyone a pay tribute to Covert. t happens to everyone and on the morning of vention and Visitors Association; Mike Barber, West End friend made a difference to us “Harry went above and be- IJan. 26, it happened to new Alexandria City Business Association; Sharon Eddy, Arlandria- in the community.” yond just spelling Lawhorne’s Manager Rashad Young. Chirilagua Business Association; Maria Wasowski, Del Chief Deputy Lenny George name correctly,” Meek laughed. “I got stuck in traffic,” laughed Young as he ad- Ray Business Association; Carol Supplee, Old Town agreed. “On so many stories that I cov- dressed the crowd that had been awaiting his ar- Business and Professional Association; Kay Tyler, “Harry advanced the vision of ered, there was always a Harry rival. “But it’s great to be here this morning and I am Eisenhower Public-Private Partnership, and Bill Reagan, the Sheriff’s office,” George Covert angle.” looking forward to meeting everyone and getting to Alexandria Small Business Development Center. said. “He made us a model for As the reception came to a know better the business organizations of the city.” Following the program, Young took time to speak others to follow.” close, Covert thanked his Young delivered the opening remarks to more than with dozens of attendees who had lined up to meet Chief Judge Becky Moore former colleagues and friends 250 people gathered at the ABC’s of Alexandria Busi- and have their picture taken with him. praised Covert’s work and for their support. ness forum held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. “This has been a great way for me to get intro- thanked him for his friendship. “I have enjoyed my time here Nine business organizations, often referred to as the duced to the business members of the community,” “He is always so cheerful,” very much,” said Covert. “You “alphabet soup” of the city, highlighted how they work Young said. “And I’ll know better next time about Moore said. “It’s been such a guys are the best and I thank in partnership to help local businesses succeed. At- the traffic.” blessing to me to have such a you for every day that I have positive person in my life and been able to share with you.”

Photos by

Louise Krafft

Christopher Witkowski and Jack John Marcussi helps his son Antonio Heilman work on their model. with sanding. Old Town Ace Hardware Hosts Derby Workshop Popcorn was popping, the jig saw was cutting, sanders were smoothing out rough edges as the Old Town Ace Hardware’s Pinewood Derby Workshop got underway Saturday morning, Jan. 7. More than 100 cars were cut on the first day. Old Town Hardware is asking for a $1 donation for cutting and 5 percent of all derby-related items Chief Judge Becky Moore, right, congratulates sheriff’s sold at the store will be donated to the Children’s Miracle Network and the Boy Scouts of America. department PIO Harry Covert on his retirement. Old Town Ace Hardware is located at 809 S. Washington St. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 9 Alexandria Opinion Gazette Packet

Live Streaming, More www.AlexandriaGazette.com You can watch legislative sessions of the Vir- @AlexGazette ginia House of Delegates and Senate via live An independent, locally owned weekly About Halfway streaming video at the General Assembly newspaper delivered website: http://legis.state.va.us/ to homes and businesses. Follow the Virginia Senate on Twitter, 1606 King Street Here are a few current issues that might Alexandria, Virginia 22314 Always entertaining, @vasen and the Virginia House of Delegates on make you want to tune in. Twitter @vahouse Free digital edition delivered to State Sen. Chap Petersen of Fairfax is cham- Visit http://legis.virginia.gov/1_cit_guide/ your email box the high-stakes session contacting_my.html to look up who your legis- Email name, mailing & email address to pioning legislation on parental notification; it’s [email protected]. a shame to see this as needed since the Fairfax lators are, and how to contact them. You can of the Virginia General also track particular legislation that interests County School Board could have rendered it you, or browse some of the thousands of bills NEWS DEPARTMENT: To discuss ideas and concerns, Assembly reaches new unnecessary. SB 167 would require school ad- that have been introduced by topic Call: 703-778-9410 ministrators to notify parents once they begin e-mail: heights this month. an investigation that could lead to criminal [email protected] charges or expulsion. seeking an abortion to first view an ultrasound Steven Mauren Editor, 703-778-9415 he user-friendly website for the Vir- “The intent of this bill is not restrict princi- of the baby. If women will be forced to have [email protected] ginia General Assembly plus live- pals from the everyday supervision required an unnecessary medical procedure, an ultra- Michael Lee Pope streaming of the legislative sessions in a building with 2,000 young people,” sound, then men should have a rectal exam Reporter, 703-615-0960 T [email protected] might make you believe that most Petersen said. “It’s to separate those investiga- and a cardiac stress test before receiving a pre- @MichaelLeePope of the important decisions in Richmond are tions which can change the lives of young scription for erectile dysfunction medication, Jeanne Theismann being made out in the sunshine. people, e.g. a decision to expel, and make sure Howell proposed in an amendment. 703-778-9436 [email protected] But as Mount Vernon’s Del. Scott Surovell that parents are notified immediately that this It’s a bit of comic relief in a year when the @TheismannMedia points out, some of the most important work is happening.” more conservative Virginia General Assembly Steve Hibbard of the legislature takes place in committees and Petersen also sought some consequences for will pass many new laws at odds with the views Associate Editor, 703-778-9412 subcommittees, but unless you are present in some older students, SB 626, because of com- of most Northern Virginians. [email protected] the room, you have no way of knowing who plaints from residents that students from “a Although many press reports describe the Jon Roetman Sports Editor, 703-224-3015 killed what or why. nearby college” were engaging in poor behav- Democratic-controlled Senate of the past as a [email protected] Editorial When a subcommittee votes, ior in residents’ front yards in late evening. barrier to anti-abortion legislation, in fact one @jonroetman there is no requirement to Petersen will likely be successful in repeal- of the most significant anti-abortion laws es- Louise Krafft record who voted or how each ing the ban on hunting on Sundays. caped that body last year. The requirement that Photographer [email protected] legislator voted. But this is where most legis- State Sen. Adam Ebbin of Alexandria pro- most facilities that provide abortions meet the lation meets its fate. posed legislation that would have prohibited physical standards of a hospital will likely close ADVERTISING: According to the National Council of State discrimination in state hiring on the basis of many if not most of these facilities. For advertising information e-mail: Legislatures, there are only 14 legislatures in sexual orientation; that died in committee. These anecdotes represent just a few grains [email protected] the United States that do not have audio or Earlier this week, state Sen. Janet Howell of sand of what is actually transpiring right Julie Ferrill video live streaming or digital archiving of from Reston offered some very specific com- now in Richmond. Display Advertising, 703-778-9446 committee and subcommittee proceedings. mentary on a bill that will likely require women — Mary Kimm [email protected] Jane Hughes Display Advertising, 703-778-9448 Letters to the Editor [email protected] Tara Lloyd community. But during the two- ning process and engage with the lic unable to attend. And the most Display Advertising, 703-778-9447 School Project year planning process, school ad- public, but despite assurances to important committee, the Steering [email protected] Ignores Public ministrators have only offered lip the contrary, they did not consult Committee, does not even have Andrea Smith service to neighbors. with the public about who would contact information online for its Classified Advertising, 703-778-9411 [email protected] To the Editor: We all know that process deter- serve on these committees, the members. If you call the chair of ACPS’ plans for building a new Barbara Parkinson mines outcome, and the planning most important of which are domi- that committee, as I have, you will Employment Advertising Jefferson-Houston elementary process here has largely ignored nated by school officials. wait for a call back — it’s been 703-778-9413 school are fundamentally flawed. the public. School administrators The committees started meeting three weeks, and counting, since I [email protected] For any school to succeed, it must created a series of committees os- prior to the public announcement left a message, and I haven’t heard Debbie Funk be responsive to the needs of the National Sales tensibly to help guide the plan- of their creation, leaving the pub- a peep. (The only folks who will 703-778-9444 call you back are the contractors [email protected] hired to run the project, but they Publisher are ultimately responsible to Jerry Vernon ACPS, not the community.) [email protected] And if you want to attend the Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm community meetings, good luck, 703-778-9433 because they’re so poorly publi- [email protected] cized that even people who’ve at- @MaryKimm

Photo by tended previous meetings aren’t Editor in Chief Steven Mauren always on the invite list, or given Art/Design: Laurence Foong, John Heinly, enough notice to clear their sched- John Smith

Louise Krafft ule. You could read about the Production Manager: Jean Card meetings on the ACPS website af- Geovani Flores terward in the unlikely event you Editor Emeritus: can remember http:// Mary Anne Weber www.acps.k12.va.us/board/jh-

/Gazette Packet project/, but don’t expect to see CIRCULATION: 703-778-9427 Circulation Manager: the agenda ahead of time, or vid- Ann Oliver eos from many of the meetings, or [email protected] all the documents that were handed out. A Connection Newspaper These problems are unfortunate The Alexandria Gazette Packet is distributed weekly to selected homes in the City of Alexandria. because there are many important Any owners or occupants of premises that do not wish to receive the paper can notify the publisher Snapshot questions raised by this $40 mil- by telephone at 703-917-6480 or by email to [email protected], and the John Douglas Hall as President James Madison filled the salon as he gave a presen- lion project. What is the impact of distributor will be notified to discontinue service. tation at Gadsby’s Tavern on Saturday afternoon, Jan. 28. See Letters, Page 12

10 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 11 Opinion Advancing Punishment Without Rehabilitation By Charniele Herring our system for public Delegate (D-46) safety turn from being about punishment and ough on crime” is a phrase rehabilitation to only be- in which elected officials de- ing about punishment? In “Tlight. It means that the the long-term, rehabilita- people they represent be- tion programs used in lieve they are working hard to ensure the conjunction with impris- public safety. “Fiscally responsible” is an- onment are cheaper for other such phrase, which says to the elec- the tax-paying public and torate that their representative is being a release individuals less likely to commit an- good steward of the public money. I like to other crime. think that I am both, but as Republicans The part I find the most egregious part of drive to make Richmond come to the parti- this cycle of being “tough on crime” is what san standstill that Washington faces again it means we are doing to children. While and again, I have to believe there are some crimes that are so horren- Richmond I may not want those acco- dous that we must try a child as an adult, I Report lades if it means poor policy believe we must make every effort to give that hurts Virginians. the people at the very beginning of their While “tough on crime” lives a chance to be rehabilitated and be- surely applies to someone who has ended come good, full members of our society. To predatory lending in the bail bond industry that end, I have introduced HB 1198 as a and expanded the effectiveness of emer- response to legislation that gives even more gency protective orders, I have to say I am latitude to prosecutors in charging children concerned about what we take it to mean as adults. My legislation simply ensures a in Virginia. last appeal to the circuit court for children We have a “tough on crime” attorney gen- found in this situation. eral who spends his time fighting federal I believe people who commit a crime must healthcare and attacking a woman’s right be punished, but we must also keep in mind to choose. We have “tough on crime” mem- that not only compassion, but also fiscal bers of the General Assembly who would responsibility dictates that we as a society rather punish children offenders as adults give children the best chance at a better life. whenever possible, rather than turn to bet- That means we must make better use of ter, cheaper alternatives to rehabilitate them rehabilitation programs in place of continu- and turn them into upstanding, taxpaying ing to try and convince people that “tough members of society. on crime” means only repeated and wors- We also have a prison system that is sys- ening punishment. So, I am happy to be tematically underfunded, and it has turned “tough on crime,” I am just going to be to punishment-only as a result. In our most smart about it, and I hope you will join me. secure prisons, we turn repeatedly to soli- tary confinement as a means of keeping Charniele Herring (D-46) serves as the House control, and the prolonged use of solitary Democratic Whip and represents Alexandria City in confinement has proven to be dangerous the Virginia General Assembly. She serves on the Courts of Justice and Science and Technology Com- to mental health. mittees. For more information, visit The questions all this raises is when did www.charnieleherring.com or on twitter @c_herring. Letters to the Editor From Page 10 the community. ACPS has failed to address tripling the school’s population from 250 these concerns, and it should establish a to nearly 800 students? Can ACPS attract committee focused on construction and is- parents and students to choose Jefferson- sues that is (1) geared specifically for the Houston after failing to do so over the last immediate neighbors of the school, (2) in- decade? Is it wise to put 14-year-olds and volves members of the community along 4-year-olds in the same building, and is with ACPS architects, planners, and admin- adding a 7th and 8th grade another fad like istrators, and (3) focuses on timely and ef- modular classrooms? How realistic is the fective engagement with those who live August 2014 completion date? Is it neces- nearby. sary to transform a 1-story school into a 3- At every meeting, I have been impressed plus story building, increasing its area from by the compassion and insights of my neigh- 80,000 to 120,000 square feet? How will bors. They remind me that it takes a com- the construction affect the neighbors, traf- munity to build a school. With the public fic patterns, parking, and the availability of comment period set to end in March and green space for community use? the resulting concept plan submission to Everyone believes Alexandria’s children City Hall, I only hope that ACPS will learn deserve the best possible education. For that lesson before it’s too late. many of the immediate neighbors, concerns will inevitably focus on prosaic issues of Daniel Schuman construction, traffic, and how the school Alexandria will physically fit into that space and into See Letters, Page 24 12 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Opinion Fighting Controversial Bills, But Finding Common Ground

By David Englin Richmond funding, state-sponsored place- cal affiliations. Worse still, lan- can majority in the House had the State Delegate (D-45) Report ments, and foster children (who, guage in the legislation would pre- votes to move all of these bills for- by definition, are under the state’s vent the state from taking action ward. hile the over- gious or moral convic- care) are involved, it’s a totally against a foster parent who se- Lest people think liberals and whelming ma- tions. As a champion different matter. This legislation verely abused a child, so long as conservatives in Richmond always W jority of legis- of religious freedom, I would allow a state-sponsored that abuse derives from a written lock horns, last week I hosted a lation we work respect any private agency to, for example, refuse statement of religious conviction joint news conference with the co- on in Richmond draws no con- faith-based entity’s adoption to same-sex couples, or conscience, which actually hap- chairman of the Conservative Cau- troversy, we are entering the phase right to provide services in accor- refuse to place Protestant foster pened in Richmond some years cus, Del. Ben Cline (R-Rockbridge) of the General Assembly session dance with their religious tenets, children with Catholic parents, or ago. This was another bill that I about our joint effort to institu- where some of the most difficult even if their views are anathema even refuse adoptions and foster worked hard against. Unfortu- tionalize transparency and ac and divisive issues come up for to my own. However, when state care placements based on politi- nately, the conservative Republi- See Common, Page 14 debate. As a long-standing mem- ber of the committee that hears health care and social services is- sues, I had the opportunity this week to weigh in on three such issues: HPV vaccinations, abortion funding for pregnancies with se- vere fetal deformities, and “con- science clause” legislation for state-funded adoption and foster care agencies. Virginia’s current HPV law does not require girls to get the vaccine. Rather, it requires the Virginia Department of Health to send par- ents of sixth grade girls informa- tion about the vaccine so they and their daughters can make that choice for themselves. It also gives poor girls free access to the vac- cine so they have the same access as girls whose families have health insurance. Science and medicine tells us that the HPV vaccine is a safe and effective and prevents cervical cancer. Therefore, to en- sure families continue to get infor- mation about the vaccine and to ensure poor girls have access to the vaccine, I strongly opposed repealing the current law. Another bill heard in committee this week would block abortion funding for poor pregnant women whose babies have severe fetal deformities. We heard emotional testimony from mothers who very much wanted the babies they were carrying and who were devastated when they learned their babies could not live. The women who testified all had private health in- surance that covered their proce- dures, but this legislation would force poor, uninsured women to carry to term babies who are too deformed to live. Aside from be- ing morally unconscionable, it’s fiscally shortsighted, since the cost of providing care only goes up the farther along these doomed preg- nancies progress. For those rea- sons, I fought against the bill in subcommittee and on the House floor. A third bill would create a “con- science clause” allowing adoption and foster care agencies that re- ceive state funds to discriminate in adoption and foster care place- ments as long as they have writ- ten policies outlining their reli- www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 13 Opinion Common Ground Is Breast Cancer Vaccine on the Horizon? From Page 13 By David C. Weintritt, Commentary countability requirements on tax MD, FACS HUMAN TRIALS preferences. We both acknowledged Director, Breast Care land Clinic announced they had In a separate study, researchers at the that it’s rare for both ends of the po- Institute developed a vaccine that tar- University of Pennsylvania are conducting litical spectrum to find such common geted the formation of breast trials for a vaccine for ductal carcinoma in ground, but liberals and conservatives hope I have to change the cancer. In the study, which was situ (DCIS), an early form of breast cancer. agree that Virginia needs more trans- direction of my medical published in the journal Nature The vaccine is made partly from a patient’s parency and accountability for all of practice one day. Because Medicine, mice that were geneti- own white blood cells with the goal of pre- the tax preferences, loopholes, and I giveaways that cause us to lose bil- that would mean breast cally geared to develop cancer venting a cancer recurrence. A 47-year-old cancer is a thing of the past. As were vaccinated. Half of the mother of two from Pennsylvania is one of lions in revenue. According to a re- a surgeon who specializes in mice the first women in the world to receive the cent draft report by the Joint Legisla- breast cancer, there is nothing I wish more were given a vaccine containing an anti- vaccine in the DCIS study. tive Audit and Review Commission, than its elimination from the lives of my gen (a substance that stimulates the body And yet another study being conducted the General Assembly’s auditing arm, patients, future patients, and anyone who to produce antibodies to defend itself) by the National Cancer Institute has shown Virginia’s 187 tax preferences cost tax- has experienced its impact. called -lactalbumin. The other half were some promising results with metastatic payers $12.5 billion in lost revenue in The race to cure cancer is currently tak- given a vaccine without it. breast and ovarian cancers. 2008, the most recent year of avail- ing many different routes. One of the inter- None of the mice that received -lactal- While there is no definitive solution yet, able data. The report showed that only esting and potentially simplest may come bumin developed breast cancer, while all there will be a breakthrough one day that 20 of those tax preferences include re- in the form of a vaccine, which stimulates of the other mice did. stops breast cancer and many other forms porting and evaluation of what they the body’s immune system to protect itself Their team, led by Vincent Tuohy, PhD, of cancer in their tracks. Until that time, cost and whether they achieve their from cancer cells. During the last two years, focused on -lactalbumin because it is a we will fight the good fight with cutting intended purpose, and 131 of the pref- there have been significant strides in the protein that is found in the majority of edge approaches for predicting, diagnosing erences receive no regular oversight development of cancer vaccines. Doctors are breast cancers. It is not found in healthy and treating breast cancer. at all. Our legislation would require a already administering two FDA approved women, except during lactation, so it be- I have a universal goal when approach- five-year sunset on all new tax pref- vaccines that target viruses to prevent liver came the target of the vaccine. The strat- ing patients with breast cancer to create a erences and would require the Depart- and cervical cancers (as well as another to egy would be to vaccinate women over 40 plan that maximally impacts the cancer but ment of Taxation to analyze and re- treat certain types of metastatic prostate — when breast cancer risk begins to in- preserves the patient’s sense of wellbeing. port information about the revenue cancer). Many other cancer vaccines are in crease and pregnancy becomes less likely. A breast cancer vaccine would be an amaz- impact of those tax preferences so leg- clinical trials, including one for an early For younger women with a heightened risk ing addition to the options that are currently islators can properly scrutinize and form of breast cancer. of breast cancer, the vaccine may be an op- available. evaluate whether they should remain tion to consider instead of prophylactic on the books. Our effort seems to be David C. Weintritt, MD, FACS is a board CLEVELAND CLINIC STUDY mastectomy as long as they didn’t plan to gaining bipartisan traction, so I am certified general surgeon and director of the Breast hopeful it will move forward. In May 2010, researchers at the Cleve- breastfeed. Care Institute at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital.

14 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Opinion Program set for Feb. 14 at Old Presbyterian ‘Staying Connected:’ Opportunities for Seniors Meeting House. By Mary Lee Anderson munities further south, many want to stay a real challenge for anyone to find ways to nected: Employment and Volunteer Oppor- SSA Resource Center Director in our city to take advantage of the terrific connect to the right job or volunteer orga- tunities for Seniors in Alexandria.” support system the region has to offer. Af- nization, especially in this highly competi- Speakers will include representatives program on employment and ter a lifetime of active engagement through tive environment. from AARP, Senior Employment Resources, volunteer opportunities for se- their careers, most don’t want to disengage The good news is that Alexandria has or- Volunteer Alexandria, Alexandria’s Aniors is scheduled for Tuesday, from a meaningful lifestyle and are seek- ganizations ready to help seniors plug into Mentoring Partnership, Alexandria Electoral Feb. 14 at Old Presbyterian ing new ways to share their experience, new careers and find exciting volunteer Board, Alexandria Tutoring Consortium and Meeting House, located at 323 South Fairfax wisdom and talents. opportunities. If you are interested in get- At Home Alexandria! The event is sponsored St. at 10 a.m. Older retirees may find themselves less ting advice and making connections that by Senior Services of Alexandria. Alexandria’s growing senior “boomer” financially secure due to the impact of the will help you find a way to become more Space is limited so register at 703 836 population is changing the way we view recession or feeling more isolated as friends engaged, plan to attend the next event in 4414, ext 10 or at retirement. Instead of moving away to com- and family become less available. It can be the Senior Speaker Series: “Staying Con- www.seniorservicesalex.org.

If you need a smoke alarm installed in your home call 703-746-5274 [email protected]

Alexandria Fire Department Si necesita un detector de humo instalado en su casa llame al 703-746-5274 [email protected]

The Alexandria Fire department is providing and installing smoke, combination smoke and carbon monoxide and special hearing impaired smoke alarms to the citizens of Alexandria free of charge as part of a Federal Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG). Alarms are available on first come, first service basis, while supplies last. Some restrictions apply. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 15 16 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 17 News

Photos by

Montie Martin

/Gazette Packet

Vibrant canals, Confucian temples, and lively street art are hallmarks of the Fuzi Miao district of Nanjing, capital of Jiangsu Province. Sampling City’s Arts Chinese art delegation arrives in Alexandria

By Montie Martin Gazette Packet

lexandria welcomed a del- Aegation of Chinese media and artists from Jiangsu Chinese opera singers Province on Jan. 13, which accompanied the Jiangsu marked an auspicious start to Delegation, and performed How do I love thee? 2012 and the Year of the Dragon. a cappella renditions of The 21-member Chinese delega- Jasmine Flower at the tion focused their fact-finding trip Torpedo Factory. It is easy to count the ways... on how the arts are celebrated in the United States, and was im- activities. “The Torpedo Factory is pressed with their reception in Al- a model used internationally, we exandria. would love to help and share ideas “It’s a very wonderful place,” for them to take away.” said Yongxin Zhu, a spokesman for Entertainment for the reception the Jiangsu Delegation and group was provided by the Alexandria translator. “The city is very impres- Singers, who showcased yet an- sive, not only the art but the ac- other aspect of Alexandria’s vi- tivities, the singing and the brant art scene. people.” The Jiangsu Delegation recipro- Mayor Bill Euille greeted the cated the gesture with a profes- Jiangsu Delegation with introduc- sional Chinese opera singer from tory remarks at City Hall, which among the group, who treated the resonated with the delegation Alexandria hosts to an a cappella given mayors are powerful figures rendition of “Jasmine Flower.” Al- in Chinese society. though the song is considered a “We are very pleased you visited traditional work, in recent months us, and pleased to showcase our it has garnered controversy for great historic city,” said Euille. “Al- political undertones related to exandria values the arts commu- revolution. nity, our goal is to become the As a farewell gift, Alexandria’s number one art city in the United poet laureate Amy Young pre- States.” sented her newest poem, “Wel- After the official greetings at come to the New Year: 2012 and When you Show your love with a gift from City Hall, the delegation continued the Year of the Dragon.” The poem to a reception at Alexandria’s Tor- was presented in English with Chi- pedo Factory. nese translations courtesy of The Shops at Bradlee “The Torpedo Factory is one of George Mason University. the city’s cultural anchors, it shows “This is my favorite thing to do King Street, just west of art in action,” said Allisa Carrel, as poet laureate,” said Young. “It’s Quaker Lane in Alexandria deputy director of the department a wonderful gift, giving the gift of Bradlee Center of recreation for parks and cultural words.” 18 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment

MVCCT’S Musings from the Maestro We are the music makers, And we are the dreamers of Upcoming Camps dreams — Arthur O’Shaughnessy

And Performances n Feb. 11 and 12, the Located south of Old Town, Alexandria, the Mount Vernon OAlexandria Symphony Community Children’s Theatre is bustling with a slate full of Orchestra continues its spring and summer activities for children, teens and families to season-long celebration of The enjoy. This 32-year-old children’s theatre features two full length Music of Dreams with its productions and eight weeks of camps in the coming months. Valentine’s Day weekend con- So visit www.MVCCT.org to see how you can participate! MVCCT certs entitled “Prescient Revela- is funded in part by grants from the Virginia Commission for the tion.” I’m very excited about our thrilling series of concerts and its Daniel Molkentin, Katharine Dain, Sarah Mesko, Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts and the Arts Council tenor soprano mezzo-soprano of Fairfax County. historic line-up of guest artists — truly a season of living legends. Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure Music and dreams seem to come from the same place in our of the Speckled Band subconscious, from the hidden Adapted from a short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle realms of the human mind. The Adapted by Tim Kelly Feb. 11, 17 and 18 at 7:30 p.m. ASO’s exploration of this potent Feb. 12, 19 at 3 p.m. combination will feature music At Heritage Presbyterian Church, 8503 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria ranging from the blissfully tran- Tickets: $10 available at the door only quil to the electrifying. These She thought she was locked “safely” in her own room, but the beautiful Julia Stoner is nevertheless murdered. Her dying scream, “The band — the masterpieces profoundly affected speckled band!” is Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson’s call to action. This the composers who created entertaining tale of intrigue and suspense was adapted from the short story them, and their magic continues thought by Sir Arthur himself to be his best-ever Holmes tale. Features a to haunt us today. cast of 14 area teenagers. The complexities and nuances The Adventures of Tom Sawyer of The Music of Dreams require Based on the novel by Mark Twain music-making of extraordinary Conceived and Written by Ken Ludwig sensitivity and panache, and we Music and Lyrics by Don Schlitz are very fortunate to have guest April 14, 20 and 21 at 7:30 p.m. artists this season who are re- April 15 and 22 at 3 p.m. Thomas Stork, bass-bari- nowned for those qualities. This Richard Stoltzman, clarinet Carl Sandburg Middle School, 8428 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria tone Tickets: $10 in advance online at $12 at the door. Valentine’s Day Concert, I am Scout Night: April 14 Groups of scouts can order $9 tickets in advance thrilled to be collaborating with online legendary clarinetist Richard This musical version of Mark Twain’s enduring novel is a tale of thrill- and knowledge of the subcon- come and experience the remain- ing escapes, comedy and inspiration sure to dazzle and enchant children Stoltzman as we perform scious, Mozart’s music was able der of the ASO’s Music of Dreams and adults alike. Ken Ludwig has won the hearts of musical theatre lovers Mozart’s blissfully beautiful to tap into that special place in Season. Our March concert will with his Broadway musicals including “Crazy for You” and “Lend me a “Clarinet Concerto.” This music the brain where dream and real- feature the legendary violinist Tenor.” Featuring a cast of 55 actors ages 8-18! is full of unforgettable and ex- ity converge. Midori playing “Mendelssohn’s Spring Break Camp quisite tenderness. I cannot Both the “Requiem” and the Violin Concerto” as part of a think of a better way to begin our April 2-6, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Clarinet Concerto” were written week-long artistic residency. She Want to be in a play? Looking for a fun Spring Break activity? Look no Valentine’s Day Concert than during Mozart’s final days (he will also take part in the world further ... MVCCT’s popular Spring Break Camp is just the creative, engag- with this extraordinarily evoca- died at the age of 35). In these premiere of “Meibuki” (Regen- ing experience your student is looking for. MVCCT’s camps are fun, build tive and moving music. final bursts of other-worldly cre- eration), a piece I was commis- confidence, teach teamwork and develop ease in public speaking. Stoltzman has done more than Regular Price $365, Early Bird discounts available ativity, the essential spirit and sioned to write for her in com- Heritage Presbyterian Church, 8503 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria anyone since Benny Goodman to character of Mozart, the man and memoration of the victims and popularize the clarinet and its artist poured out of his music. In survivors of the Japanese Earth- Summer Camp unique expressive powers. And these last pieces he combines a quake and Tsunami. Two-Weeks like Goodman, he is also a jazzer! new level of sublimity and sweet- See you at the Concert! July 2-July 13 (no 4th of July) And how does one follow such ness with his characteristic exu- Together we are the music July 30-Aug. 10 a feast for the ears and the soul? Aug. 13-24 berance and joi de vivre! makers, the dreamers of One-Week Why, with another masterpiece Please join Richard Stoltzman, dreams… July 23-27 of Mozart’s, of course — his “Re- the Metropolitan Chorus, the Al- — Kim Allen Kluge Plan ahead because MVCCT’s Summer Camps always sell out early! Ex- quiem,” also written during the exandria Choral Society and the Music Director perienced, professional instructors, directors and musical directors work with campers throughout the sessions to teach elements of the craft of act- last year of his life. Milos Forman musicians of the Alexandria Sym- Alexandria Symphony ing through theatre games, improvisation and skill-building exercises. All immortalized this “Requiem” in phony on Feb. 11 and 12 for our Orchestra campers also rehearse a showcase performance for the last day of camp. his bio-pic “Amadeus.” The mu- Valentine’s Day weekend con- Alexsym.org During the two-week sessions, mornings are devoted to acting workshops sic was portrayed as being writ- and rehearsals of a non-musical piece. Afternoons are devoted to acting, certs. We also hope you will singing and dancing — all in preparation for a musical theatre production ten in a feverish dream state as on the last day of camp. Campers can attend morning, afternoon or both, Mozart precariously hovered be- however, most campers stay all day. The one-week camp focuses on the tween this world and the next. ‘Prescient Revelation’ rehearsal and production of a non-musical drama. Although the movie is highly fic- Prices range from $270-$650, discounts for Early Bird, siblings, and all Alexandria Symphony Orchestra/Symphonic NOVA presents clarinetist day attendance available Heritage Presbyterian Church, 8503 Fort Hunt tionalized, the music does have Richard Stoltzman performing Mozart’s “Clarinet Concerto.” Program also Road, Alexandria For more information and to purchase tickets or regis- the impact of a prescient revela- features Mozart’s “Requiem” featuring Katharine Dain, soprano; Sarah ter for camps, visit www.MVCCT.org tion and powerfully evokes a Mesko, mezzo-soprano; Daniel Molkentin, tenor; Thomas Stork, bass-bari- tone; the Alexandria Choral Society: Brian Gendron, Artistic Director; and MVCCT is in its 32nd year as a nonprofit organization offering produc- dreamlike vision. tions featuring children in all roles, led by professional directors, music the Metropolitan Chorus: Barry S. Hemphill, Artistic Director. Saturday, Feb. directors and stage managers. MVCCT also offers education programs in- Mozart’s two classics featured 11, 2012, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 12, at 3 p.m. At Rachel M. Schlesinger cluding afterschool programs and camps. Visit www.MVCCT.org or call on this program are kindred spir- Concert Hall and Arts Center, 3001 N. Beauregard St., Alexandria. $5-$65. 703-360-0686. its and share a dreamlike char- Visit alexsym.org or 703-548-0885. acter. Long before modernism www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 19 E

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© Google Map data

D RED BARN MERCANTILE The designers at Red Barn Mercantile like to work in collaboration with their clients in an atmosphere of fun. Having children of their own creates a family friendliness which is ideal for planning any kids space. Desks come in dozens of finishes. 113 South Columbus Street, 703.838.0355. redbarnmercantile.com

Learning Spaces Occasionally, The Wanderer wonders wistfully what it would be like to be a student again. Seems to him that the days of studying in cold institutional settings C HOORAY FOR BOOKS are long gone. Bright colors and well-planned study A selection of wonderful books chosen spaces abound to spark the fire for learning. Who by the avid readers at Hooray for Books is sure to capture the imagina- knows? Under these conditions he could be wearing a tion of even the most finicky readers mortarboard as he pushes through the street of to inspire those book reports! Alexandria in pursuit of his own brand of knowledge. 1555 King Street, 703.548.4092. hooray4books.com

Photos by Louise Krafft

POTOMAC PAINT E & DESIGN CENTER Jamie Jones, a color consultantant and therapist, believes color creates a mood, state of mind, and healing opportunities. She believes children view color differently than adults and often gravitate toward bright, high energy color combinations. Ask her to create a color pallette just for your child's needs. 3610 King Street, 703.379.5800. potomacpaint.com

A POMPANOOSUC MILLS B AUTHENTICALLY AMISH One of the newest stores in Old Town HOME FURNISHINGS has been crafting North American Solid hardwood furniture is handcrafted in hardwood furniture in Vermont since Lancaster County, Pennsylvania and meant to 1973. Each piece is built to order with last for generations of students. Mission, a huge variety of standard styles and Shaker and Traditional styles reflecting the sizes from which to choose. Amish principle of simplicity. 277 South Washington Street, 4609 Duke Street, 703.212.9890. 571.312.7495. pompy.com authenticallyamish.com

20 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Theater Now Open on King Street

Family owned & operated Open 7 days a week for Lunch and Dinner Carryout, Catering & Delivering Available “The Finest Lebanese Cuisine” 719 King Street Alexandria VA 22314

NOW THROUGH FEB. 4 FEB. 9 TO MARCH 3 www.thepitahouse.com “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” “Genesis Reboot.” Tickets are $30. Presented by Synetic Wednesday to Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 3 p.m. Theater. Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sundays Presented by the Little Theatre of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe at 2 p.m. At Crystal City Theater, 1800 South Bell St., St., Alexandria. Visit www.thelittletheatre.com or 703-683- Arlington. 0496. individualized & personalized Know of something missing from our attention for your Local Theater listings? Send it to health & well-being [email protected] or gazette@connection newspapers. com. Valentine’s Day Special: Acupuncture Deadline is 2 p.m. the Thursday before Couples Massages Massage Therapy publication. Call Steve Hibbard at 703- 60min $210/90min $270 Health Consulting Upgrade to Hot Stone for $10 & includes 778-9412. specialized aromatherapy for him & her Skin Care FEB. 24 TO MARCH 10 Sweetheart Facials Pilates 60min $90 w/ $20 OFF Any Waxing Weight Loss “The Dixie Swim Club.” Port City Enjoy a complimentary, antioxidant-rich glass of wine Playhouse presents a delightful and succulent chocolate treat during your treatment Pregnancy & Labor comedy about five women who were Pain Management Sunday Night Zumba Class! on their college swim team and get Ear Candling together for a “girls only” weekend at Starting Feb. 12th 7:00pm $10/ per class Bach Flower Consultation a cottage on the Outer Banks every Dance your way to a fitter you! summer. Fri.-Sat., Feb. 24-25, March 2-3 and 9-10; Tues., March 6 at 8 p.m.; Sat. matinees March 3 and 10 309 S. Washington Street • Alexandria at 2 p.m. Tickets are $18 general 703.299.0500 admission, $16 seniors & students, $14 groups of 10+. At The LAB at HolisticTouchCenter.com Convergence, 1819 N. Quaker Lane, Alexandria. Call 703-838-2880 or www.portcityplayhouse.org. JAN. 31 TO MARCH 25 FEB. 3 TO 17 “Really Really.” Showtimes are Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., Thursdays “Laughter on the 23rd Floor.” Show and Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. and times are Feb. 3, 4, 5 (m), 10, 11, 12 7 p.m. Tickets are $56 - $80 and are available by calling Ticketmaster at 703-573- (m), 16, 17. Evenings at 8 p.m., SEAT (7328) or visiting www.signature-theatre.org. Signature is offering a Matinees (m) at 2:30 p.m. Presented special “20 Seats for $20” ticket deal for every performance. At Signature by the Arlington Players. At Gunston Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington. Theatre One, 2700 South Lang St., Arlington. Discounts available. Reservations americancentury.org or 703-998- NOW THROUGH JAN. 28 can be made online or by calling 571- 4555. DS-Shows or 571-377-4637. “Dreamgirls.” Evening performances EXTENDED THROUGH FEB. 5 on Jan. 26, 27, 28 at 8 p.m. NOW THROUGH FEB. 11 Hairspray.” Weeknights and matinees Performances will be held at the Jules Feiffer’s “Little Murders.” on Saturdays and Sundays. Directed Gunston Arts Center - Theater One, Show times are Thursday through by Eric Schaeffer, starring national 2700 S. Lang Street in Arlington. Saturday 8 p.m.; Saturday/Sunday radio host Robert Aubry Davis. Seating is General Admission; Tickets matinee at 2:30 P.M. Post-show talk- Tickets start at $63. Call 703-573- are $20 and are available online for back on Jan. 19. At Gunston Theatre SEAT or visit www.signature- pre-purchase at II, 2700 South Lang St., Arlington. theatre.org. At Signature Theatre, www.DominionStage.org. Group Order tickets online at 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington.

Fine Arts

THURSDAY/FEB. 9 FEB. 3 TO MARCH 4 Made With Love. 6 to 9 p.m. Free. Fall in love with a “An Affair to Remember.” Embrace artisan handmade unique work of art as you browse open studios and creations made with a little love in February at Scope galleries and enjoy an evening, complete with flowers, Gallery in the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Kiln Club candy, live music, and more. At the Torpedo Factory show at the Scope Gallery, 106 North Union Street, Art Center, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria. Visit ground floor, Studio 19, Alexandria. Call the Scope www.torpedofactory.org; 703-838-4565. Gallery at 703-548-6288 or visit www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/scope.htm FEB. 13 TO MARCH 25 Cuba Revisited, 2011. Karen Keating, member of NOW THROUGH FEB. 19 Multiple Exposures Gallery, will be exhibiting new Fears and Phobias. What does it mean to be fearful – to images from her most recent trip to Cuba, April 2011. live and cope with a phobia? The 21 artists in the Reception is Sunday, March 4 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.; gallery’s latest exhibition explore their own Artist’s Talk is Thursday, March 15 from 7 to 8 p.m. At interpretations of various fears and phobias. At the Multiple Exposure Gallery, Studio #312. Target Gallery at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 North Union St., Alexandria. At the FEB. 3 TO MARCH 18 www.torpedofactory.org/target “City Limits.” Featuring acrylic paintings on canvas by Eric Garner of McLean. Opening reception is Saturday, JAN. 26 TO MARCH 11 Feb. 4 from 4 to 6 p.m. and Artist’s Talk at 5 p.m. At GA Gardner: Interconnections. Gardner uses the The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall & Arts Center, vibrant colors and energy of his native Trinidad and Margaret W. and Joseph L. Fisher Art Gallery at the Tobago in his paintings and mixed media works to Alexandria Campus of Northern Virginia Community address our often complicated relationship with mass College. communication. Artist’s reception is Sunday, Jan. 29 from 4 to 6 p.m. At The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St., Alexandria. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 21 Entertainment

E-mail announcements to the Gazette, speakers will include Kevin Zeese of the [email protected]. Photos and Occupy Movement and Aquene Freechild of artwork are encouraged. Deadline is Thursday at Public Citizen. At the Mount Vernon Unitarian noon for the following week’s paper. Call Steve Church, 1909 Windmill Lane, Alexandria. To Hibbard at 703-778-9412 with questions. register, click on the “Register for Upcoming Events” banner of www.uusj.org. Questions? 301-588-1951. FRIDAY/FEB. 3 Jane Franklin Dance: The Mouse of Fridays at Grace. 7:30 p.m. Pops organ concert Amherst. 3:30 p.m. A performance for with Tim Smith’s transcription of Saint-Saëns’ children. Tickets are $10/children; $15/adults. “Carnival of the Animals,” complete with Ogden At The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St., Alexandria. Nash poems read by a celebrity guest. Also Call 703-933-1111, or visit James Hewitt’s “Battle of Trenton” with human www.janefranklin.com “supertitles” just like at the opera. At Grace Jane Franklin Dance: Forty + or Minus. 5 Episcopal Church, 3600 Russell Rd., Alexandria. p.m. Tickets are $20. At The Athenaeum, 201 Optional goodwill offering. Call 703-549-1980 Prince St., Alexandria. Call 703-933-1111, or or www.gracealex.org. visit www.janefranklin.com. Wonders of Science Demo. Visit the Stabler- Leadbeater Apothecary Museum and discover FEB. 3 TO 26 curious objects, from poison bottles to Love, Politics & Scrabble. The Games People dragon’s blood, and find out how they were Play, juried art exhibit at Del Ray Artisans, used. Admission is $6. Reservations can be inspired by the games people play throughout made at 703-746-3852. At 105-107 South life. Del Ray Artisans’ opening reception is Fairfax Street in Old Town Alexandria. Visit Friday, Feb. 3, 7-10 p.m. This juried show www.apothecarymuseum.org or call 703-746- explores the numerous games people play in life, 3852. whether power, Monopoly, manipulation, poker, McLean High School Historical Angry Birds, baseball, or gossip. The community Reenactment Society. 1-4 p.m. Stabler- is invited to ‘get their game on’ at Art Games on Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 S. Feb. 10 and Game Talks on Feb. 25. The exhibit Fairfax St., Alexandria. Members of McLean TUESDAY/FEB. 14 High School’s historical reenactment society and Marketplace, with artful Valentine Cards, Burlesque-a-Pades. 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $29.50. At the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., will conduct scientific demonstrations about closes Feb 26. www.TheDelRayArtisans.org or Alexandria. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000 or call 703-549-3701. 703-838-4827. science in the 1700s. Explore the Apothecary and its large variety of objects, from poison Club. Cash bar and hors d’oeuvres. At Bishop bottles to dragon’s blood. $6, includes a tour House, 116 South Alfred St., Alexandria. Visit Ireton School Gym, 201 Cambridge Road, SATURDAY/FEB. 4 of the museum. Reservations required at 703- www.morrisonhouse.com or call 703-838-8000. Alexandria. Tickets at door are $25/person; History Lecture. 1 to 3 p.m. Free. Take a Walk 746-3852. $50/couple. Online tickets at Through Time in Changes to Alexandria www.liveatbishopireton.com. Reflected in Photos. With a talk by Julie Downie, SUNDAY/FEB. 5 WEDNESDAY/FEB. 8 Genealogy Lecture. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost is $5. special collections photo librarian. At Alexandria Genealogist Char Bah will examine the family Library, 717 Queen St., Alexandria. Call 703- Duo Harp Recital. 3 p.m. Free. Melissa Dvorak DJ Dance Party. 9 to 11 p.m. Admission is $6. histories of four Alexandria women who were 746-1706. and Michelle Lundy, harpists, will present a With DJ Dabe Murphy. At Nick’s Nightclub, 642 influential in the city’s African American Country Western Dance. 8:30 to 11 p.m. The Duo Harp Recital. At The Lyceum, 201 S. South Pickett Street, Alexandria. community. At the Alexandria Black History Northern Virginia Country Western Dance Washington St., Alexandria. Call 703-838- Museum, 902 Wythe St., in the Parker-Gray 4994. Association will hold its smoke-free, alcohol-free THURSDAY/FEB. 9 Historic District in Alexandria. Call 703-746- dance at Luther Jackson Middle School, 3020 Mayor Bill Euille’s Super Bowl Party. 5 p.m. 4356 or visit www.alexblackhistory.org. Gallows Rd., Falls Church. BJ Brown will be the Tickets are $35/person; $60/two; $100/family Made With Love. 6 to 9 p.m. Free. Fall in love Swordsmen’s Rendezvous. Every half hour DJ. A line dance will be taught beginning at of four; donations accepted. RSVP “Friends of with a unique work of art as you browse open between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Admission is $6/ 7:30 p.m. A couples dance will be taught Bill Euille,” P.O. Box 25048, Alexandria, VA studios and galleries and enjoy an evening, person, ages 5 and up. Reservations are required beginning at 8 p.m. Open dancing is from 8:30- 22313. At Joe Theismann’s Restaurant, 1800 complete with flowers, candy, live music, and and can be made by calling 703-746-4242. At 11:00 p.m. and includes Two Step, Waltz, line, Diagonal Road, Alexandria. Call 703-307- more. At the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 Gadsby’s Tavern Museum,134 North Royal Swing, Cha Cha, and specialty dances. Couples 0851. N. Union St., Alexandria. Visit Street, Old Town Alexandria. Visit and singles are welcome. Admission for “Voyage to Germany.” 2 p.m. Presented by the www.torpedofactory.org; 703-838-4565. www.gadsbystavern.org. NVCWDA members $10; non-members $12; Marine Chamber Orchestra. At the Rachel M. Alexandria Coin Show. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, children under 18 accompanied by a paying FRIDAY/FEB. 10 will be 50 tables with U.S. coins and currency, adult $5; PSDC members $10. Snacks and drinks Northern Virginia Community College, 3001 world coins, banknotes, ancient coins, hobby will be available. Visit www.nvcwda.org, or call North Beauregard Street, Alexandria. Call 703- Art Games. ‘Get your game on’ at Del Ray books, gold, silver, medals, tokens and the hot line 703-860-4941. 845-6156 or www.schlesingercenter.com. Artisans’ Art Games on Friday, Feb. 10, 7:30- collectibles. This is open to the public. An Health Fair. Noon to 2 p.m. “Wii” are Catching, 9:30 p.m. where Art Bingo will be played after educational presentation is provided. Prizes and an artful mixer game. $7 donation; light Coping, and Conquering Heart Disease, Diabetes FEB. 5-9 coins are given away for attendees. At the and Stroke. Blood pressure screenings, BMI, refreshments; adults 18 +. Hampton Inn & Suites on the corner of the I-495 massages, fitness demos. Sponsored by the Free Barre Body Classes. This ballet-inspired www.TheDelRayArtisans.org beltway and Route 1, Alexandria. Visit the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter of Delta workout combines traditional ballet barre with Alexandria Coin Club website at weights and therabands for a challenging Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. At the Nannie J. Lee SATURDAY/FEB. 11 www.alexandriacoinclub.com. Rec Center, 1180 Jefferson St., Alexandria. cardio workout, all set to uptempo, energizing Clarinetist Richard Stotlzman. With the ASO Genealogy Lecture. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost is $5. music. At Studio Body Logic, 2417 Mount Recital: For Art, For Love. 7:30 p.m. With and Mozart’s Requiem. Saturday at 8 p.m.; Genealogist Char Bah will present, “Using Oral Vernon Avenue. Advance registration required Karin Paludan, soprano; Wes McCune, piano. Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are $35/adults; $30/ History, Censuses and Vital Statistics to Start as space is limited. Visit Tickets are $20/adults; $15/seniors; $10/ seniors; $10/students. At the Rachel M. Your Research,” a program for beginners. At the www.studiobodylogic.com or call 703-527- students and teachers. At St. Luke’s Episcopal Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 3001 Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe 9626. Church, 8009 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria. Call N. Beauregard St., Alexandria. St., in the Parker-Gray Historic District in 703-765-4342. Used Book Sale. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. At Kingstowne Alexandria. Call 703-746-4356 or visit TUESDAY/FEB. 7 www.alexblackhistory.org. Library, 6500 Landsdowne Centre, Alexandria. FEB. 11 AND 12 Growing Inequality in Wealth. 8:30 a.m. to “Poetry and Creative Play: Writing as an Call 703-339-4610. Living Legends and Alexandria Symphony 12:30 p.m. The Corruption of the Democratic Expressive Coping Strategy.” 6 to 8 p.m. Bishop Ireton Dance. 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Orchestra Collaboration. ASO is presenting Process and Resulting Social Injustice. Featured Featuring Mary Azoy, Licensed Professional Featuring the bands, Black Moon Tonic and Big Counselor & Poetry Therapist. At Morrison Bad JuJu. Sponsored by the BI Athletic Boosters See Entertainment, Page 23

I’m Phillip Norris - Your Alexandria Neighbor …for probably as long as you’ve lived in Alexandria. My wife and I grew up here. I’m a finish carpenter with 30 yrs. experience. My work is meticulous, and I take great pride in completing jobs on time, and on budget. Let me give you a quote on that home project you’ve been thinking about and check it off your list! My prices are reflective of the times. Finish Carpentry & Trim Works Licensed • Bonded • Insured • References Upon Request. Ofc: 703.684.5215 Cell: 703.403.2994 [email protected]

22 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment From Page 22 Love is in the Air!

“A Prescient Revelation,” will bring Paul Robeson to The Romance is at Saturday, Feb. 11 at 8 p.m. life in a one-night and Sunday, Feb. 12 at 3 performance of “Paul p.m. at the Rachel M. Robeson, A Play by Philip Schlesinger Concert Hall & Dean Hayes” at the Carlyle Arts Center, 3001 North Club, 411 John Carlyle Beauregard Street, Street, Alexandria. A Alexandria. The concert dinner will begin at 5 p.m., features Mozart’s Clarinet followed at 7:30 p.m. by Concerto and Requiem. The the 90-minute show. After 2012 Living Legends of the performance, Mr. Alexandria portraits will be Staples and Mr. Hill will unveiled for the first time on answer questions from the Old Town’s most authentic Country Feb. 11 at the Alexandria audience. Tickets are $65/ Symphony Orchestra’s play and dinner; $30/play French restaurant since 1983 concert. For tickets to the only. Call 703-548-8899 or concert, see http:// visit www.alexsym.org/ www.thecarlyleclub.com. Winter Specials buyTix.shtml. The 2012 Legends are: Bob SATURDAY/FEB. 11 Calhoun, Al Grande, Harry Bishop Ireton Dance. 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Featuring the WEDNESDAY/FEB. 15 Dover Sole • Bouillabaisse “Bud” Hart, Wendy McGann bands, Black Moon Tonic and Big Bad JuJu. Sponsored by Swing Dancing. 9 to 11 John, William “Bill” Kehoe, the BI Athletic Boosters Club. Cash bar and hors d’oeuvres. p.m. Admission is $10. Allen Lomax, Jimmie At Bishop Ireton School Gym, 201 Cambridge Road, With the band, The Frog Legs • Beef Wellington McClellan, Pat Miller, Mike Alexandria. Tickets at door are $25/person; $50/couple. Thrillbillies. At Nick’s Oliver, Lillian Stanton Online tickets at www.liveatbishopireton.com. Nightclub, 642 South Coq au vin • Cassoulet Patterson, Joseph S. Pickett Street, Alexandria. Shumard, The Steuerle Hospitality Summit. 8 Family, and the team of Dorothy Turner and Gwen to10:30 a.m. The Southeast Fairfax Development Chef Specials • Venison Menefee-Smith. Corporation (SFDC) presents “Staying Power: The Future of Mattress Sale Fund-raiser. West Potomac High School is Lodging and Hospitality on the Richmond Highway holding a Mattress Sale Fund-raiser. Profits go to the 2012 Corridor.” At the SpringHill Suites, 6065 Richmond Old Town All-Night Graduation Celebration and Dance Team. Highway in Alexandria. Contact SFDC at 703-360-5008 or Featured are Pillow-Top, Plus Top, Orthopedic, Latex and visit www.sfdc.org. Memory Foam Sets. Prices start: Twin $199; Full $289; Starting Your Vegetable Garden Indoors From Seed. Queen $299; and King $499. Email 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Learn the basics of successful plant Valentine’s Day Dining [email protected]. propagation. At the Nannie J. Lee Memorial Rec Center, The ANGC web site is http://wphs-ang.weebly.com/ 1108 Jefferson St., Alexandria. To register, call 703-228- 3 Four Course Seatings index.html 6414 or e-mail [email protected]. Visit http:// mgnv.org Call today for reservations SUNDAY/FEB. 12 Basket Bingo. 2 p.m. A set of 20 bingo cards and a door 127 N. Washington St., Old Town • 703-548-4661 prize ticket are included with admission. Proceeds support THURSDAY/FEB. 16 the Class of 2012 All-Night Grad Party. At Mount Vernon Plants and Pollinators: A Perfect Partnership. 7:30 High School cafeteria (door #4), 8515 Old Mount Vernon p.m. Laura Beaty, VNPS Potowmack Chapter propagation Smoke-Free Restaurant Road, Alexandria. To purchase tickets, contact Paula chair will present a slide lecture that will feature the bloom www.lerefugealexandria.com Weinberg at [email protected] or call 703- sequence of local natives and highlight their importance to 298-1593. local pollinators. At Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Paul Robeson Play. Actors Hugh Staples and Michael Hill Spring Road, Alexandria. Call 703-642-5173. Take a walk on the SOUTHSIDE The Best in Family Dining

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OLD TOWN CANDEY’S SLEEPY’S HARDWARE OF ALEXANDRIA 703-549-3193 Food 703-879-0475 703-822-7237 fit for a king on a family budget An Alexandria community fixture for more than FACCIA LUNA WILLIAMS- 100 years, the Royal Restaurant offers the best SOUTHSIDE 815 in Greek, Italian and American cuisine. Enjoy TRATTORIA SONOMA 703-836-6222 burgers, steaks, prime rib, chicken, seafood, 703-841-0464 703-836-1904 pasta and full salad bar complete with special children’s menu items.

MCMILLAN & ANK MURFREE, DDS M & T B PERK UP COFFEE 703-549-3300 703-579-6350 703-838-2812 734 North Saint Asaph Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314 703-548-1616 • www.theroyalrestaurant.com The Shops at 801 South Washington Street•Alexandria Award-winning wine menu • Major credit cards accepted www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 23 Letters

From Page 12 come to their senses. It is never too late to Next Step repent. To the Editor Robert Pringle

Finally, a plan, which features countless Alexandria Photo by hours of citizens input, widespread support, and numerous compromises, passed! Thank you to the Council members who voted in Waterfront Will favor of the plan including Mayor Euille, Louise Krafft Vice Mayor Donley, Councilman Smedberg, Benefit All Councilman Krupika, and Councilwoman To the Editor: Pepper. Never, in this community has there I never want to let the facts get in the been such widespread support of any plan way of a good story, but one cannot just

/Gazette Packet from citizens, City officials, and the City’s make stuff up to denigrate someone with boards and commissions. Passing by 6-1 in whom you disagree. So, in response to the the Planning Commission, endorsed by the letter from Mr. MacDonald [“A Lack of Lead- City’s Waterfront Committee, and the Parks, ership,” Gazette Packet, Jan. 25]: Recreation & Cultural Activities Commission 1. I am not retired. I have lived in Alex- just to name a few, and includes the sup- andria all my life, and for the past 30 years port of the Del Ray Business Association, my office has been in Old Town. I have no the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce, the plans to ever leave the city where I live and Snapshot AEDP, and ACVA is the kind of consensus work. The circle talks quietly among the guests at the art opening Jan. 12 we should always strive to reach. 2. I did not “come in from Nantucket” to at the Torpedo Factory. The women are knitting hats for premature The passing of the plan ensures 40 per- attend the Council hearing. I have been to babies at Alexandria Inova Hospital. cent of the waterfront will be park oriented, Nantucket once in my life about 20 years it will include; a continuous waterfront ago. It was nice. I came to the Council meet- Come to find that the new face belongs proposed plan had many positive aspects walkway of 50-100 feet, an arts, history and ing from the exotic location of Seminary to none other than Scott Gordon. One skep- regarding economic development and job cultural component, and more active park Ridge. It took me 12 minutes, but traffic tic pondered whether Mr. Gordon’s sudden growth, but it also had numerous negative uses, with the least impact to traffic, an was heavy. new-found interest in the West End might elements. abundance of underground parking, and the 3. The fact that the tax burden on in any way relate to his political aspirations. I had several concerns. The plan lacked greatest tax benefits to keep all residents’ homeowners has risen moderately in recent Many people have devoted a great deal details on parking, traffic flow, and flood property taxes from increasing. We are years is precisely the point I was trying to of time, effort and thought to move this control, and the true economic costs re- grateful and look forward to working with make. Because of the decision by the Coun- Small Area Plan forward. It is far from per- mained unanswered as we were to vote on Council members to take the next steps to cil on which I served to approve the Patent fect and there are clearly some material dis- fundamentally transforming Alexandria’s implement Waterfront Plan. and Trademark Office at Carlyle, we were agreements about various aspects of it. But waterfront. Additionally, there has been a able to create a source of revenue that will we continue to work together to address tremendous amount of concern from our Gina Baum continue for decades and reduce the reli- and attempt to resolve those. To find that community about the detrimental impact Alexandria ance on individual real estate taxes. The Mr. Gordon can be handed a hot-off-the- of overdevelopment on our city’s historic carefully-planned, long-term development press 161-page draft Plan at 7:05 p.m. and waterfront and its fragile infrastructure. The Sham of a of Alexandria’s waterfront will create an- shortly thereafter assert that the Plan is a final plan endorsed the seizure of private other important economic resource for Al- “disaster” would seem to imply he has property through eminent domain as an Public Meeting exandria and result in a waterfront that all rather unique powers. Or perhaps he sees option. I have voted against eminent do- can enjoy. no need to be informed before he opines? main in the past, and I encourage the Vir- To the Editor: Everyone in Alexandria should be grate- To pick up on the last line of Mr. Gordon’s ginia General Assembly to pass stronger I feel I must voice my disappointment in ful to Mayor Euille, Vice Mayor Donley, and letter (“Be aware Alexandria, you are not a laws this session to protect the rights of our mayor and the members of the city Councilmembers Krupicka, Pepper and priority”) one might respond: Be aware Al- property owners. council who voted to approve the water- Smedberg for having the courage and per- exandria, being well informed is not a pri- I am a proponent of an improved water- front plan. The sham of a public meeting spective to make a decision, albeit difficult, ority of some people before they make front for Alexandria. It is important that the two Saturdays ago prove they have never that will ultimately benefit all of Alexan- sweeping, categorical judgments (much less City and developers work together on spe- really listened to the concerns of residents dria. run for office). cific proffers for each parcel and assess pro- regarding increased density of the water- Thank you, Mr. Gordon, for giving some posals individually, piece by piece as we front. I will remember this come election David G. Speck of us first-hand insight into how you might move forward. It is essential that we have a day. They should be voted out. Alexandria conduct yourself were you to find your way complete and thorough understanding of onto our City Council. No doubt we will what the impact on the community and the Barbara Corcoran have other candidates to measure you environment will be before proceeding. Alexandria Authoritative against. I would like to thank the Waterfront Work Yet Uninformed Group that was assembled by the Mayor and Waterfront To the Editor: Don Buch City Council this past June. The Work Group Perhaps not all of your readers are famil- Alexandria consisted of seven citizen members who Struggle Not Over Vice chair, Beauregard Corridor Stakeholders’ spent over 60 hours and 15 meetings re- iar with the background to Scott Gordon’s Group, writing on his own personal behalf. To the Editor: letter in last week’s paper — “The viewing, commenting and making changes Fear not, the fight for the Alexandria Beauregard Small Area Plan is a Disaster.” to the plan. In the end, four members sup- Waterfront is not over. Best case scenario: Given that he apparently intends to run for Time To ported the plan and three were opposed. I The court will require the City to accept the a seat on our City Council, voters might find have received hundreds of letters, emails more than 200 petitions it refused to con- his approach rather interesting. Move Forward and phone calls from supporters on both sider. sides of the issue, and it was encouraging After close to two years of community To the Editor: Worst case scenario: There will still be to see democracy at work. I also commend meetings discussing and evolving the draft The City Council recently voted on the determined resistance to rampant, high the two advocacy groups that were created Plan, it was a surprise to find a brand new rezoning of the Alexandria Waterfront. We density development in an already over- and saw the two sides of this challenging face turn up at our Jan. 23 meeting. It was were asked to vote on a Masterplan amend- crowded National Historic Area, on a case decision that the Council had to make. Now even more surprising to find how authori- ment that increased the density and uses of by case basis. that the plan has passed, we need to come tatively this new face seemed to feel he several key parcels of real estate along the It is also possible that members of City together and move forward for what is best could speak to what he had determined Potomac River. On Jan. 21, after more than Council who voted against a second look at for our community. were shortcomings of the Plan. The follow- 11 hours of public testimony from well over the so-called “plan” will realize that they ing morning his conclusion that “The 100 citizens and business leaders, the Wa- have created a potent political issue which Frank H. Fannon, IV Beauregard Small Area Plan is a Disaster” terfront Plan was passed by a 5-2 vote. I will resonate throughout Alexandria, and appeared in several different media. Alexandria City Council was one of the two dissenting votes. The See Letters, Page 25

24 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Letters

From Page 24 I feel the same. ❖ Elimination of 17 staff posi- integration teachers. School Board for this year, there tions at the middle schools and ❖ Elimination of an instruc- is no doubt in my mind that elimi- World Class Lynn Hampton high school. tional coach who worked to meet nating academic achievement dif- Place To Live Alexandria ❖ Elimination of seven Special student needs for language acqui- ferences among race, income, dis- Education staff positions at T.C. sition, special education, English ability and language subgroups To the Editor: Williams. language learners, cultural compe- must be the highest priority.” (Al- Most people in Alexandria have Why These ❖ Elimination of an Early Child- tency, and student engagement. exandria Gazette Packet Oct. 20, been waiting years for the City to hood Education position. ❖ 50 percent cut in all exem- 2011) finish developing the Waterfront. Staff Cuts? ❖ No additional increase in En- plary program funding (why con- Mr. Sherman, just how are we It is a great asset, but it is dis- To the Editor: glish Language Learners (ELL) tinue these programs if they are to attempt to eliminate, or even jointed and a mixture of On Jan. 19 Alexandria City Pub- teachers. not fully funded and why imple- reduce, those differences when townhomes, parks, offices, busi- lic Schools Superintendent Morton ❖ Elimination of summer school ment the programs in the first you seek to take away the very ness, parks and warehouses with Sherman unveiled what he programs. (Even though research place? Has the effectiveness of staff and programs that these stu- limited areas to walk along the deemed a “moral document” be- shows students from lower income these programs been evaluated, dents depend upon to meet their Waterfront. The current path fore the Alexandria School Board. homes suffer significant learning how, and what are the results? educational needs? along the river has to detour to the This carefully crafted wording was loss over the summer). How much have the programs cost The money saved from the streets in several places. The Wa- used to present what the less the- ❖ 10 percent reduction in fund- the district thus far?) aforementioned cuts is spent in terfront plan creates a continuous atrical would call the ACPS ing for extended learning oppor- ❖ Elimination of the district many places throughout Mr. path from the south end of Old FY2013 Budget. Dedicated to the tunities. level social work coordinator. Sherman’s budget. Some areas Town to Daingerfield Island. “amazing students who attend all ❖ Reduction in stipends for All of these changes with the where funding increases within What to do with the 8.5 acres of of our schools,” this budget was coaches, tutors, and organizers of potential to gravely impact student ACPS are: warehouses on the 350 acres of rife with various changes in dis- school clubs/activities. achievement and learning coming ❖ Pay increase of $1,189 to raise waterfront was the crux of the trict-wide investments, realloca- ❖ Elimination of five curriculum from the same superintendent the salary of the superintendent to debate in Alexandria. Of these 350 tion of department funds, and re- facilitators (even though ACPS just who said: “Our reality is that we $244,080 (Virginia’s Governor acres, 150 acres are currently structuring of programs. So just released its new curriculum, which have achievement differences earns $175,000) parks. what did this dedication bestow is having to change throughout the among our students where there ❖ $39,017 increase in benefits In spring of 2011, after two upon the students of our city? A school year to address flaws) should be none. We know that our for the Office of the Superinten- years and over 100 public meet- few of the noteworthy budget ❖ Elimination of a visiting sci- African-American, Latino/His- dent ings and various events, the Alex- highlights glossed over by Mr. ence teacher position (even panic, Special Education and En- ❖ $20,800 budgeted for “other andria Planning Commission Sherman include: though science is one of the glish Language Learners (ELL) stu- charges” for the Office of the Su- passed the Waterfront plan by a 6 ❖ Elimination of staff positions weaker subject areas district- dents have a disproportion of perintendent to 1 vote. The Waterfront Work at 54 percent of the elementary wide). lower test scores, higher rates of ❖ $10,748 salary increase for Group approved the plan by 4 to schools. ❖ Elimination of four physical drop outs, greater discipline refer- the deputy superintendent 3. The City Council approved the ❖ Elimination of 13 Special Edu- therapy and occupational therapy rals, less participation in TAG, ❖ $46,507 for a “special assis- plan by 5 to 2. The speakers at the cation staff positions at Mount positions. Honors, and AP programs. As we tant” to the deputy superintendent public hearing were evenly di- Vernon Elementary School. ❖ Elimination of two technology recommend priorities to the See Letters, Page 26 vided on the issues, with many of the opponents asking for further delay, not disapproval. This was nearly a three-year process. There were numerous changes to the Waterfront Plan that surfaced Visit These Houses of Worship through the process. A lot of misinformation about the plan was circulated, accusing Join A Club, Make New Friends, or Expand Your Horizons... the plan of creating another Na- tional Harbor, saying the plan would create BRAC on the river. Good Shepherd Children’s pictures were on a Christ the Saviour Catholic Church website holding signs that said Anglican Church don’t BRAC the waterfront. This Mass Schedule “To Love & Serve the Lord with misinformation was frightening to Gladness & Singleness of Heart” b Saturday Evening Weekdays people, especially Old Towners. (Mass or Communion 5:00 pm; 6:30 pm (en Español) Service) 9:00 am (followed by Rosary) The approved plan will have the Location – Washington Mill E.S. 9100 Cherrytree Drive Sunday Children’s Liturgy of the Word Sundays (Sept.-July) during 9:00 am least traffic input on Old Town and 7:30; 9:00; 10:30 am; 12:00 Noon Mass (English) Worship Service – 10 a.m. will clean up the Waterfront. 2:00 pm (en Español) Sign Language Interpreter Inter-generational Sunday School – after service I understand people who live in 6:30 pm Mass (Starts Sept. 11) Sunday at 9:00 am Mass Old Town are frustrated with its www.christthesaviouranglican.org 8710 Mount Vernon Highway, Alexandria VA, 22309 parking situation. The Waterfront 703-953-2854 Tel: 703-780-4055 Fax: 703-360-5385 www.gs-cc.org Plan will not change the parking Loving as Christ loves, serving as Christ serves situation in Old Town. As people b continue to move to the Washing- UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST COMMONWEALTH BAPTIST CHURCH BUDDHISM CHURCH OF CHRIST GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN HOPE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST …703-548-8000 THE VAJRAYOGINI BUDDHIST CENTER ALEXANDRIA CHURCH OF CHRIST CHURCH-ELCA….703-548-8608 ton region, whether Leesburg, ...703-960-8772 CONVERGENCE CREATIVE ...202-331-2122 …703-836-3083 IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH, COMMUNITY OF FAITH... 703-998-6260 CHURCHES—ROMAN CATHOLIC MISSOURI SYNOD…703-549-0155 Bethesda or D.C., they will con- CHURCHES—AFRICAN METHODIST DEL RAY BAPTIST CHURCH…703-549-8116 GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCHES—EPISCOPAL MESSIAH EVENGELICAL LUTHERAN EPISCOPAL ZION DOWNTOWN BAPTIST CHURCH CATHOLIC CHURCH EMMANUEL EPISCOPAL CHURCH CHURCH, ELCA...703-765-5003 tinue to come to Old Town for its ALLEYNE AME ZION CHURCH …703-549-5544 …703-780-4055 ...703-683-0798 NATIVITY LUTHERAN …703-548-3888 FIRST AGAPE BAPTIST ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH ST. AIDAN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH CHURCH, ELCA….703-768-1112 great history, restaurant, quaint COMMUNITY OF FAITH…703-519-9100 …703-836-3725 ...703-360-4220 CHURCHES—ANGLICAN FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ST. LOUIS CATHOLIC CHURCH ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH ORTHODOX shops and ambiance. People living CHRIST THE SAVIOUR…703-953-2854 OF ALEXANDRIA…703-684-3720 …703-765-4421 ... 703-780-3081 SAINT APHRAIM SYRIAC…201-312-7678 ST. ANDREW & ST. MARGARET PROVIDENCE- ST. JOHN BAPTIST ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH…703-836-4100 ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH ALL SAINTS OF AMERICA...703-417-9665 OF SCOTLAND…703-683-3343 CHURCH…703-683-2565 CHURCHES—CHRISTIAN ...703-765-4342 in Old Town should work with the CHRIST THE KING ANGLICAN CHURCH SHILOH BAPTIST…703-683-4573 ST. MARK EPISCOPAL CHURCH...703-765-3949 CHURCHES—PRESBYTERIAN …703-535-6815 HIS KINGDOM MINISTRIES... 703-313-5029 City to find workable solutions for MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH FIRST CHRISTIAN OF ALEXANDRIA CALVARY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH ...703-256-1239 CHURCH... 703-549-3911 CHURCHES—LUTHERAN ...703.768.8510 CHURCHES—APOSTOLIC VICTORY TEMPLE…703-370-2233 EPIPHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH-ELCA ALEXANDRIA PRESBYTERIAN parking. It is not the Waterfront LOVE OF CHRIST CHURCH PLYMOUTH HAVEN BAPTIST...703-360-4370 ….703-780-5077 CHURCH…703-683-3348 …703-518-4404 CHURCHES—CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCHES—BRETHREN FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST SCIENTIST BETHANY LUTHERAN OLD PRESBYTERIAN Plan that is the issue. ALEXANDRIA...703-549-7973 ….703 765-8255 MEETING HOUSE…703-549-6670 CHURCHES—BAPTIST GRACE BRETHREN CHURCH…703-548-1808 CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH ALFRED STREET BAPTIST CHURCH ALEXANDRIA CHURCH OF GOD HERITAGE PRESBYTERIAN…703-360-9546 Alexandria has grown to be a MT. VERNON...703-768-2494 ….703-765-5003 …703-683-2222 ...703-548-5084 MT. VERNON PRESBYTERIAN…703-765-6118 world class city. As noted by the many young people that spoke for the City’s Waterfront Plan at the To Advertise Your Faith Community, call Karen at 703-917-6468 public hearing, this is why they moved here. As a 23-year resident, www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 25 Legal Notices Letters

ABC LICENSE Janow II, LLC trading as Del Ray Cafe, 205 E. Howell Ave. Alexandria, VA 22301. The above From Page 25 sider this a change. A one-third spoke in favor of the plan. Many elections, strengthening our de- establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE ❖ $103,695 salary increase be- reduction in the hotels rooms is a who spoke in favor of the plan mocracy in Virginia. CONTROL for a On Premises Wine and Beer and Mixed Beverage license to sell or manufac- tween four human resources ad- major change. were individuals unknown to us ture alcoholic beverages. Margaret T. Janow- ministrators Andrew also mentions, as he has and identified themselves as resi- LeRoynda Brooks sky, member, NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no lat- ❖ Funding for the Success For before, that Alexandria is well be- dents of all areas of Alexandria Alexandria er than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required legal notices. Objections All reading program to be used low the minimum national aver- including Old Town, the West End, should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or throughout the district. Current age in open space per-capita. Hav- Del Ray, and Taylor Run. An espe- 800-552-3200. ACPS Chief Academic Officer ing spent quite a bit of time un- cially interesting observation to Meet Highest ABC LICENSE Gwen Carol Holmes was the chief successfully trying to find that na- me was that everyone who ap- Standards Yates Kingstowne Service, LLC trading as operating officer for the Success tional standard, maybe Andrew peared to be under the age of 40 Yates Kingstowne Service, 6700 S Van Dorn St. To the Editor: Alexandria, VA 22315. The above establishment for All Foundation before coming can assist me by providing me with spoke in favor of the plan, some- is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF As a candidate in the Democratic ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL for wine to ACPS. the reference. I have also spoken thing that portends the future of and beer off premises license to sell or manu- The notion that this budget has with individuals who know this our City. And Andrew’s comment primary for Virginia’s 8th congres- facture alcoholic beverages. Jason Yates, Presi- sional district, I read with particu- dent some moral bearing is ridiculous. subject material and do not think “The other half were citizens, who NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license lar interest Michael Pope’s article must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days What this budget has are some very such a standard exists. Trying to actually live here,” shows that he from the publishing date of the first of two re- troubling aspects which should be put some factual information on ignored the 50 percent that spoke “Blind Trust” [The Gazette, Jan. 5, quired newspaper legal notices. Objections 2012] on the disparity among can- should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or questioned by the community and this point, I went to both for the plan and live in and 800-552-3200 be immediately addressed by the Alexandria’s and Arlington’s bud- throughout the City. By adopting didates for ballot access. In 2011 I ran a principled cam- LEGAL NOTICE School Board. If we are to meet the gets and explored the “Profile” sec- the plan, the City Council wisely Pursuant to the provision of section 4-1-16 of needs of a growing student popu- tions. I felt comparing these two avoided the CAAWP recommenda- paign as an Independent for the code of the City of Alexandria, the Fairfax County chairman to voice Alexandria Police Department located at 2003 lation; a population with special areas would be more meaningful tions to purchase the 8.5 acres of Mill Road, Alexandria, VA 22314 is now in concerns and stop cutting educa- possession of unclaimed bicycles, mopeds, education students, English lan- than say, a national standard warehouses, which would greatly lawn equipment, money, scooters, and other guage learners, and students who which would include municipali- impact all Alexandrians economi- tion funding, stop increasing stu- items. All persons having valid claim to the dents per teacher, and stop reduc- property should file a claim to the property with are economically disadvantaged, ties of lesser population densities cally through increased taxes, and reasonable proof of ownership or the items will ing the take home pay of teachers be sold, destroyed, converted or donated. For a we must do so with the proper re- to the area of these two munici- cause the delay of important capi- complete listing go to sources and support in place. This palities, in other words, more of tal projects throughout the city, and first responders. http://alexandriava.gov/police/ and contact the Working with people across po- Police Property Unit at (703) 838-4709. budget effectively removes the sup- an “apples to apples” comparison. hardly a fair proposition. port and resources from the very Here are the facts from both loca- “The Mayor and Council had a litical lines, I am proud and thank- groups the superintendent purports tions in their 2011 budgets. Alex- chance to show leadership by help- ful Democratic and Republican to be so concerned about within andria has 955.5 acres of open ing the community”, and they did senators and delegates signed my Now! Complete our schools. This utter lack of sup- space and a population of 145,000 just that. ballot petition. port and resources is something we residents. This produces a ratio of Michael Pope’s excellent article do not want to bestow upon our 7 acres per 1,000 residents. Arling- Dennis Auld exposes the inconsistency of how Print Editions City’s children. ton has 1190 acres of open space Alexandria partisan and Independent candi- and 212,000 residents for a ration dates are treated in Virginia. Edmund Lewis of 6 acres to 1,000 residents. My For example, no one reviewed Increase the ballots submitted by Mitt Online! Alexandria understanding is that nationally all jurisdictions set their own stan- Voter Access Romney’s campaign for the March The full print editions of all 18 dards based on demand, compari- 6, 2012 Virginia Republican Presi- They Did Show To the Editor: dential Primary to verify their au- Connection Newspapers are now son, and availability of open space. Leadership There are no adopted national Virginia lawmakers are debating thenticity. Separately, former Re- available on our Web Site in PDF format, standards, but there are guidelines a bill right now that will create publican candidate Tim McGhee page by page, identical to our weekly To the Editor: produced by NRPA (National Rec- onerous obstacles for Virginia vot- admitted several of his ballot pe- Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012, marked reation and Park Association). ers if passed. It will require all Vir- titions in his campaign for del- newsprint editions, including print a day when Alexandria’s City Maybe that is what Andrew refer- ginia voters to provide a valid egate lacked addresses. advertising. Go to Council members carried out their enced. If not, please provide the photo ID in order to vote to pre- Pope quotes Del. David Albo (R- duties and obligations by gather- reference. In addition, the argu- vent voter fraud, a “problem” that 42) saying, “It just seems to me that www.ConnectionNewspapers.com ing all of the facts regarding the ment is counterintuitive. You de- is even less likely to affect a per- we should all be playing by the and click on “Print Editions.” Waterfront Plan, and coming to cry the lack of open space, but in- son than getting hit by lightning. same rules. Independent candi- the decision to support the plan. sist on acquiring the most expen- This bill is similar to a law passed dates shouldn’t be subject to more The citizens of Alexandria will sive properties in Alexandria for last year in South Carolina that scrutiny than Republicans and benefit from this decision for years parks, in an area that is already was recently struck down by the Democrats. That’s just not right.” to come. 150 acres or 40 percent parks. U.S. Justice Department for violat- Delegates David Albo and Bob As a founding member of Hardly a logical tactic if the goal ing the Voting Rights Act. Addi- Brink (D-48) both said they would Waterfront4All, we established a is to provide a balance of open tionally, several other states that support legislation requiring par- policy of sticking to the facts and space throughout the City of Al- have passed photo ID legislation tisans to meet the same standards, the issues. In fact, the primary rea- exandria. We all should feel good are facing mounting challenges to although neither is sponsoring leg- son we formed the group was to that previous City Councils ac- their laws – including mounting islation currently. counter the significant misinfor- quired parcels along the water- legal fees paid for by taxpayers. The Democratic Primary for mation spread by the opponents front when they were affordable While I respect lawmakers work- Virginia’s 8th congressional dis- of the City’s Waterfront Plan. In making the current waterfront ing to protect our election system trict requires my campaign to turn the Jan. 26 issue of the Gazette, plan feasible. Andrew states that in Virginia, I feel they are heading in at least 1,000 voter signatures Andrew Macdonald’s letter in- over 100 people spoke, which is down the wrong track. Instead of with dates and addresses on a pe- cluded several statements that pretty correct, with about a 50/50 focusing on legislation for a non- tition so I may have ballot access. continue the misinformation cam- split between for or against the existent problem, they should My campaign will submit signa- paign. Andrew stated that the plan. He characterized those who move our elections into the 21st tures collected in Arlington and hearing was a sham, giving a false spoke in favor of the plan as mostly century. Lawmakers could mod- Alexandria to their respective reg- PRINT EDITIONS impression that the plan could still Chamber of Commerce and ernize our voter registration sys- istrars to verify. We will do the be changed. Just like not acknowl- Waterfront4All members. tem and allow online or automatic same in Fairfax and Falls Church M edging the many changes incorpo- Waterfront4All is a small group of registration. They could also con- if their registrars will verify. rated into the plan from citizen citizens who recognize the tremen- sider bills that would make voting We will meet the highest stan- input over the last three years. dous opportunity presented to sig- more convenient such as allowing dards in seeking public office. Changes were added to the plan nificantly improve the waterfront for early and no-excuse absentee at the hearing including a change for all of our citizens and not a voting. A. Will Radle, Jr. from three hotels with 450 rooms membership group. Some mem- These types of bills, instead of Candidate for Democratic th to two hotels with 300 rooms. bers of the Alexandria Chamber photo ID legislation, will increase nomination in the 8 Congres- Apparently Andrew does not con- including its chair and chair-elect access and participation in our sional District

26 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet Sports Editor Jon Roetman Sports 703-224-3015 or [email protected] Titans Still Struggling to Solve Spartans TC’s strong defensive effort goes for naught against West Springfield.

By Jon Roetman get tired: well, we lost by three. If I work

Gazette Packet harder, next time we’ll win. It’s more of a Photos by motivational thing: I didn’t make it this railing nemesis West Springfield time, next time I will.” by three points as the final sec- In a battle of the top two teams in the Tonds ticked off the clock, the T.C. Patriot District, the Titans suffered their Craig Sterbutzel Williams girls’ basketball team second loss of the season to the Spartans put the ball in the hands of its best offen- by a combined four points. Last year, West sive player. Springfield won each of the teams’ four Senior guard Gaby Moss, referred to as meetings, including the district and North- the Titans’ “offensive assassin” by head ern Region championship games. coach Kesha Walton, got a good look from “It’s very sad because we know we’re a /Gazette Packet 3-point range. Placed in a similar situation better team than them,” TC senior Brooke against Stonewall Jackson back in Decem- Ninman said. “We know we can beat them.” ber, Moss buried a 3-pointer in the final What will it take to beat the Spartans if minute of regulation to force overtime. On the two teams meet again? this night, however, Moss’ potential game- “Just play with high energy from start to tying attempt from behind the arc was off finish,” Ninman said. “We know we can beat target. them and we’re going to beat them and we’ll West Springfield defeated T.C. Williams see them when it really counts.” 40-37 on Jan. 30 at The Garden. The Ti- tans trailed by 11 entering the fourth quar- DEFENSE was a bright spot for the Titans, ter but whittled the lead down to one when who limited the Spartans to their lowest T.C. Williams senior Sofie a three-point play by Moss made the score scoring output of the season. During their T.C. Williams senior Gaby Moss Schedler played a key role in a 36-35 with 2:25 remaining. A bucket by TC first meeting on Jan. 6, West Springfield scored a team-high 15 points strong defensive effort against freshman Rejoice Spivey again pulled the won 49-48 despite playing without first- against West Springfield on Jan. 30. West Springfield on Jan. 30. Titans within one at 38-37 with 1:27 to play, team All-Met point guard April Robinson, but TC came up empty during its final three who was out with an ankle injury. Robinson [Schedler for] 90 feet and [she] never gets we’re not going to make that many if you possessions with a chance to take the lead was back on Monday, playing in her fourth tired.” don’t take that many.” or tie. game after missing more than a month, and Georgetown-bound Logan Battle led West TC dropped to 13-6 overall, including 9- Moss scored a team-high 15 points. While the TC defense put her to the test. TC se- Springfield with 19 points. Lindsey Mares 2 in the district. West Springfield improved Moss came up empty on her final attempt, nior Sofie Schedler and her teammates pres- scored eight points, Amy Berglund finished to 17-2 with an 11-0 district mark. The Ti- Walton’s postgame message to No. 24 was sured Robinson in the backcourt, forcing her with six and Robinson, who will play for tans will travel to face South County at 7:45 stay confident and keep shooting. to work up and down the floor. Duquesne University next season, had five. p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 2. TC’s final regular “There are going to be plenty more of After the game, Robinson, who is work- Robinson complimented the Titans’ de- season home game is Feb. 10 against those nights,” Walton said. “We look for you ing her way back into shape, was notice- fensive effort. Annandale. as our offensive assassin to [take big shots]. ably winded to the point of head coach Bill “I thought they were playing good de- TC has lost its last eight meetings with Hold your head up high. It was there, you Gibson asking if his floor general was OK. fense,” she said. “They were really physi- West Springfield dating back to the 2009- had a good look and sometimes it comes “The full-court pressure was killing me,” cal. We’re just going to learn from that. We’ll 10 season. After the most recent defeat, up short, but that doesn’t mean you stop Robinson said. “I’m so tired. … I haven’t see them again, hopefully, in the playoffs.” Walton said the Titans are focused on earn- shooting. You keep shooting.” run like that in practice.” Offensively, TC’s 37 points established a ing another chance to play the Spartans, Moss said she’ll use the experience to help Schedler is the Titans’ go-to defender season low. Other than Moss, no Titan which would likely be on Feb. 17 in the her down the road. when it comes to matching up with an scored in double figures. Spivey finished Patriot District championship game. “I try to stay optimistic,” she said. “Coach opponent’s best ball-handler. with six points and Schedler added five. “At that point in time, you’re really play- always tells us that these games, they don’t “Sofie’s the heart and soul of our defense,” Moss said the team wasn’t being aggressive ing for something even more — you’re play- really count because when the playoffs start, Walton said. “She gets it started. [She’s] enough. ing for a title,” Walton said. “Tonight would everybody goes back to 0-0, so you use them very scrappy, like a little gnat. She’s all over “We’re a shooting team and we weren’t have been great, but we just need to focus as motivation. You use this feeling when you the place and gives teams hell. They face taking a lot of shots,” she said. “Of course and get ready for Feb. 17.” Sports Brief

place mark of 51 feet, 5 inches in the boys’ shotput TC Athletes Compete were both personal bests. Each had already quali- In Virginia Tech fied for states. On the track, state-qualifier Sydney Schaedel finished fourth with a personal-best time

Photo by Invitational of 2:59.29. The girls’ 4x200-meter relay team of Jada Toote, Kathryn Hendley, Indya Weaver and Morgan Several members of the T.C. Williams indoor Lataillade qualified for regionals with a time of

track and field team competed in the two-day Vir- Andrew Kicinski 1:48.96. The girls’ 4x400 (Schaedel, Shannon ginia Tech High School Invitational in Blacksburg, Smythe, Hendley, Lataillade) also qualified for with most achieving regional- or state-qualifying regionals with a time of 4:08.6. marks. The second part of the Patriot District champion- Kahron Lee finished in second place in the high ship meet will be held on Saturday, Feb. 4 at Episco- jump, clearing a personal best 6 feet, 4 inches to pal High School. The top six individuals and the top qualify for the state championship. three relays qualify for regionals on Feb. 18. Ayzha Ward’s first-place toss of 39 feet, 2 inches T.C. Williams’ Kahron Lee clears 6 feet, 4 inches at the in the girls’ shotput and Jonathan Anderson’s fifth- Virginia Tech High School Invitational last weekend. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 27 Wellbeing Cybercycling for Better Health Exergaming — exercise combined with video games — might offer a greater cognitive benefit than traditional exercise alone.

By Marilyn Campbell Research Development School of Nursing for three months yielded greater cognitive The Gazette Packet at George Mason University. benefit, and perhaps added [greater] pro- The Cybercycle Study, conducted by sci- tection against mild cognitive impairment he same staccato beeps and entists at Union College in New York, tested (MCI), than a similar dose of traditional flashing graphics that keep 79 volunteers ranging in age from 58 to 99. exercise,” said lead investigator Cay Ander- T some youth glued to video Some of the volunteers completed three son-Hanley, Ph.D., from the Healthy Aging games might also boost cogni- months of regular exercise on stationary and Neuropsychology Lab and Department tive function in senior citizens. bikes; others completed the same amount of Psychology at Union College. “Navigat- A study published in the February issue of exercise on cybercycles. Cybercyclists ing a 3D landscape, anticipating turns and Photos contributed of the American Journal of Preventative completed 3D tours and raced against a competing with others requires additional Medicine shows that exergaming — exer- “ghost rider,” an avatar based on their last focus, expanded divided attention and en- cise combined with video games — might best ride. hanced decision-making. These activities offer a greater cognitive benefit than tradi- Though the cyclists all exercised for the depend in part on executive function, which tional exercise alone. same amount of time and at the same level was significantly affected.” “[A] cybercycle, a recumbent bike of intensity, researchers found that the Dr. Jan Gable, an Alexandria resident and equipped with a computerized screen that cybercycle riders had significantly better the medical center director at Greenspring, allows interactive virtual-reality gaming, executive function than those who used a says that there are two types of memory Willard Griffing of Greenspring, a has been shown to improve executive func- plain stationary bike. They also experienced changes that occur with age. “The normal retirement community in Spring- tion, which indicate abilities such as plan- a 23 percent reduction in progression to age-related change in memory is not pro- field, exercises using a stationary ning, organizing and problem-solving,” said dementia compared with the control group. gressive and does not lead to disability. This bike. The American College of Kathy Richards, Ph.D., a Herndon resident “We found that for older adults … is characterized by delay in recall such as Preventative Medicine reports that and assistant dean, Doctoral Programs and cybercycling two to three times per week ‘word searching,’” she said. “The other cat- only 7 percent of those over 75 egory is dementia, a relentlessly progres- exercise regularly. sive deterioration in brain function that usually affects memory first and later judg- Burke resident and a wellness manager at ment, initiative, personality and finally Greenspring retirement community in movement and swallowing,” Springfield. “Certainly this generation is Research shows that exercise may prevent especially challenging due to the fact that or delay dementia and improve cognitive for most this is not something they were functioning in normal aging. accustomed to doing on a routine basis.” “Although we may not completely under- Mary Lee Esty, Ph.D., L.C.S.W., president stand the specific processes that contribute of the Brain Wellness and Biofeedback Cen- to dementia, current evidence certainly sug- ter of Washington, says neurofeedback — gests that physical and cognitive activities essentially biofeedback for the brain dur- improve functioning in older adults,” said ing which clinicians attach sensors to a Kristin Anderson, M.D., M.P.H., family and person’s scalp to rebalance brainwave ac- preventive medicine physician for Molina tivity — might also improve cognitive func- Healthcare and Community Health Care tioning. “There is more and more evidence Network in Reston. “An example of this that neurofeedback actually improves ex- would be ballroom dancing, which involves ecutive functioning even in early demen- learning steps paired with exercise.” tia,” she said. “A personal experience was The American College of Preventative when my mother-in-law was in her early Medicine reports that only 14 percent of 90s, and it was increasingly obvious that adults aged 65-74 years old and only 7 per- she was having to search for words and was cent of those over 75 report regular exer- having trouble with fluency. But even after Fitness expert Brad Hibbs of Greenspring, a retirement community in cise. just one treatment, it made a huge differ- Springfield (shown here with Greenspring resident Julia Gerow), says “Motivating people at any age to exercise ence in her word retrieval and ease of con- motivating seniors can be challenging. can be a real challenge,” said Brad Hibbs, a versation.”

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28 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com 703-917-6464 Zone 3: • Alexandria EmploymentEmployment Zone 3 Ad Deadline: • Mount Vernon Tuesday 4 p.m.

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30 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 ❖ 31 32 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 2-8, 2012 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com