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Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A Connection Newspaper May 10, 2018 Upgrades for Mount Vernon Recreation Center Modernization to the interior and parking are part of the plan. By Mike Salmon The Gazette

ust past the front door of the Mount Vernon Recre- Jation Center, it becomes obvious that an expan- sion is needed for this community amenity. The front lobby is shar- Photos by Mike Salm ing its small space with the station- ary bicycles that once belonged in the workout room but were pushed out into the lobby because of space. From her vantage point in the audience at a May 6 recreation on/The Gazette Alexandria residents Sam Steiman and his son Joe are center meeting, Ingrid Butler hoping for another hockey rink at the Mount Vernon pointed this out. “Exercise ma- Recreation Center. chines are out in the lobby,” she said, but noted that she has made Mount Vernon Supervisor Dan engineers involved with the friends over the years at the rec- Storck kicked off the meeting in project. They first started renova- reation center, and calls it “a little front of a packed room. Joining tion talks in 2014 and finally got The hillside location presents challenges for the rec community, I have no intention on him was Eric Inman of the Fairfax the $20 million from a 2016 park center visitors as well as the engineers that are design- going anywhere else,” she said. County Park Authority and several See Upgrades, Page 18 ing an expansion. Event Teaches Residents to Prepare for Emergencies Preparedness Awareness Community partners gave infor- AWeekend (PAW) took mation to families about keeping place on Saturday, May 5, their families safe for any emer- at the Gum Springs Community gency that might arise in our com- Center in Alexandria. The event munity. empowered families to prepare for “Preparedness Awareness Week- sudden emergencies both natural end is just that. With a number of and man-made. wonderful county partners, my The program provided hands- office has an event to have folks on, developmental training in: free come in, get key information that car seat checks; hands-on CPR; di- they need to then prepare the next saster meals; family emergency day for how to respond to any kinds planning; and assembling a disas- of disasters or emergencies that we ter kit. The event had a display of have — whether they’re individual, emergency kits from infant a house fire — whether it’s flood- through adult, including pets and ing or derechos or storms or hurri- individuals with special needs. canes that have passed our way over Families also learned how to the last many years,” said Mount make an emergency plan (evacu- Vernon District Supervisor Dan

Photo Contributed ation, emergency contact, etc.). Storck.

5/11/18

Requested in home in Requested

material.

Time-sensitive

Postmaster:

Attention

Permit #482 Permit

Alexandria, VA Alexandria, PAID

Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck with volunteers at the PAW – Prepared- Postage U.S. ness Awareness Weekend at Gum Springs Community Center in Alexandria. STD PRSRT www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette Editor Steven Mauren News 703-778-9415 or [email protected]

Photos by Lauren Colunga

2017 FHLL Majors team — winners of Virginia State Championship. Fort Hunt Little League Celebrates Opening Day ort Hunt Little League (FHLL) held were introduced and their coaching staff The national anthem was sung by West ❖ AA: Crawford Baker its 62nd opening day ceremony at spoke about the importance Little League Potomac Junior Adrianna DeLorenzo. ❖ AAA: Daniel Taylor Carl Sandburg Middle School’s play has in the development of future high Commemorative first pitches were ❖ Minors: Abby Beddis F ❖ Red Stevens Field last month. The school baseball players thrown by a player from each of the Fort Majors: Matthew Leonardo festivities featured Barry Meuse, FHLL presi- Fort Hunt Little League Division Commis- Hunt Little League’s Divisions as well by the ❖ West Potomac Varsity: Kurt Sullivan. dent, and John Donaldson, District 9 Ad- sioners introduced their team managers and West Potomac Varsity Team. Those players A representative from state Sen. Scott ministrator, welcoming players, families and coaches, followed by players taking the field include: Surovell’s office was on-hand to present an friends. and high-fiving the West Potomac varsity ❖ T-Ball: Lexington “Lex” Cohoon official plaque of the State of Virginia Com- West Potomac Varsity Baseball players players on their way around the bases ❖ Single A: Mason LoCascio See Fort Hunt, Page 17

Barry Meuse, FHLL president, receives plaque of the From left: Barry Meuse, FHLL president; Rene West Potomac Junior Adrianna State of Virginia Commending Resolution recognizing Belanger long-time FHLL manager and volunteer, and DeLorenzo performs national 2017 as the most successful season in FHLL history Jason Hescock, new West Potomac Baseball Head anthem. from state Sen. Scott Surovell’s office representative. Coach.

Abby Beddis throws out commemorative first pitch on behalf of FHLL One representative from each FHLL division recites the Little League Minors Division. pledge. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 ❖ 3 4 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mother’s Day

Johannah Murphy with her three sons (from left), Jack Murphy, (age 21); Charlie Murphy (age 14); and Peter Murphy (age 18). Johannah Murphy homeschooled all of her boys from birth to 8th grade. The Murphys will soon be celebrating the high SUNDAY school graduation of Peter, who is the OPEN Alex/Stratford Landing $564,900 valedictorian of Bishop Ireton High 2620 Culpeper Road NEW Lovely 4 BR, 3 1/2 BA home in School. Jack, the oldest, has just com- Stratford Landing. 2 master 1-4 pleted his junior year at the College of LISTING suites (w/their own baths) - one William and Mary, and Charlie, the young- up, one down. Beautiful 1/3 acre th lot; fenced backyard. Deck off of est, is finishing up his 8 grade year of the kitchen. Cathedral ceiling in homeschooling and will attend Bishop Living Room and Dining Room. Ireton next fall. Johannah Murphy New carpeting in lower level. Wood shingle exterior w/ front columns. shepherded them through Eagle Scout Family room with fireplace. projects and year-round sports, mentored Alex/Waynewood $679,900 them in religious education, exposed them 1-4 1120 Waynewood Blvd. to a wealth of cultural experiences Waynewood’s popular Mayfield model OPEN through The Kennedy Center, outdoor w/4 finished levels & a spacious 5th level w/good ceiling height waiting to be adventures, and her own field trips. On SUNDAY finished. Steps to Waynewood Elemen- behalf of Jack, Peter and Charlie Murphy, tary. This lovely light-filled home has this is submitted in honor of their mother. 4BRs, w/2.5 BAs, a 3 season porch, & a lovely fenced bkyd w/a brick patio & an attractive shed. Quality replacement windows, 6 panel doors. Beautiful newly re- finished hdwd floors. FPL in Living rm, eat-in kitchen w/gas cooktop & double oven. Separate Dining rm w/French doors to porch. Family rm on lower level w/half bath. Alex/Potomac Valley $562,000

1-4 8807 Vernon View Drive Lovely 4BR, 2BA, 4 lvl, Split on a lg, OPEN beautiful .3 acre lot w/a fenced bkyd. Freshly painted interior & beautiful SUNDAY refinished hdwds. Main lvl has a spacious & cozy Family rm w/gas FPL, 4th BR, & 2nd full bath. Upper level #1 offers an open kitchen plus Living & Dining Rm. Upper level #2 has a full bath & 3BRs. The lower level has a lg partially finished Rec rm. Good price on a super lot. Alex/Riverside Estates $594,900 8341 Orange Court Stunning & updated 5BR, 3BA Split w/2 car garage on a beautifully landscaped lot looking across to woodlands & winter water views of Little Hunting Creek. Kitchen gutted in 2011 w/porcelain, quartz, & SS. Other updates include: painting, floors, baths, roof & A/C. Front windows replaced w/thermal DBL pane. Beautifully updated & meticulously maintained. 5 mins to Ft. Belvoir, 15 mins to Old Town, 25 mins to NTL Airport & 30 mins to the Pentagon. Alex/Wessynton $664,900 3301 Wessynton Way Beautiful home in Wessynton, Mt. Vernon’s sought after contemporary community, just a stone’s throw to Mt. Vernon Estate & George Washington Pkwy, & is adjacent to Little Hunting Creek. Large kitchen Debbie Fairbanks and Stanhope Fairbanks Steve Fill sent in this Mother’s Day photo w/breakfast area, & a separate Dining at Great Wolf Lodge on Williamsbug on of his wife Amber along with their son Rm. Beautiful hdwd floors. FPLs in the vacation. lovely Living Rm & Family Rm. Situated in a natural, wooded setting the home’s bountiful Stephen and daughter Breanne. windows bring the outdoors inside. Enjoy the natural landscaping on your deck. 1 car garage. Community amenities include boat ramp, swimming pool, tennis courts. Alex/Mt. Vernon Grove $679,900 9343 Boothe Street Check out this large, beautiful updated Colonial on a stunning lot, a short walk from the Potomac River. Updated Kitchen & Baths w/ DBL pane windows. 5BRs, all on the upper level--beautiful hardwood floors on main & upper levels. Large Maggie partially finished basement & 2 car garage w/side entry plus circular driveway. Hagood with 5 minute drive to Ft. Belvoir, 20 mins to South Alexandria. Spectacular home, son Collin lot & location at a very reasonable price. Give Rex a call. Marquis on Alex/Riverside Estates $499,900 8601 Mt. Vernon Hwy his first trip Lovely Mt. Vernon home in Riv- to England UNDER erside Estates w/5BRs, 3BAs & a and a visit to large carport on a .41 acre lot. Dou- CONTRACT ble pane replacement windows w/ Stonehenge. tilt-ins. 2014 HVAC, 2015 hot water — Brian heater. Recessed lights, crown & Marquis base molding. Living room w/large picture window flanked by additional windows & built-book shelving over- looking the large fenced flat backyard. Nice Family room w/wood burning fireplace. Double pane replacement windows w/tilt-ins. Great price!

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 ❖ 5 Opinion

What’s on the Ballot for www.MountVernonGazette.com Primary Election June 12? @MtVernonGazette An independent, locally owned weekly Vote, Vote, Vote DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY newspaper delivered US House of Representatives to homes and businesses. ❖ District 8, Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (unopposed) Published by nyone who was closely watching last Providence Community Center Local Media Connection LLC November’s election got a demon- ❖ Sully Governmental Center stration about what difference one ❖ West Springfield Governmental Center District 11, Gerald Edward Connolly (unop- 1606 King Street A posed) Alexandria, Virginia 22314 vote can make. Control of the Vir- www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections/absentee ginia General Assembly came down to a single 703-222-0776 TTY 711 Free digital edition delivered to race that was deemed to be tied, and was de- [email protected] U.S. Senate, Timothy M. Kaine (unopposed) your email box. Go to connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe cided by a random drawing. Republicans won. 12000 Government Center Parkway Suite Vote. It’s so important to vote. Your vote 323 REPUBLICAN PRIMARY NEWS DEPARTMENT: could actually be the deciding vote. Fairfax, VA 22035 US House of Representatives [email protected] Your best shot at ensuring you can vote is to District 11, Jeff A. Dove, Jr. (unopposed) vote early. Virginia Voter ID Steven Mauren Editor, 703-778-9415 Virginia has voter identification require- United States Senate [email protected] How To Vote ments; plan to bring photo identification with Corey A. Stewart Every year is election year in Virginia; me- you to vote, whether that is absentee or on Nick J. Freitas Jean Card Production Editor chanics and details of voting require attention Primary Election Day. E. W. Jackson [email protected] to detail. Among accepted ID: valid Virginia Driver’s If you want to be sure you get to vote, vot- License or Identification Card; valid Virginia Primary: Tuesday, June 12 Andrea Worker ❖ Contributing Writer ing early if you qualify is a good choice. Early DMV issued Veteran’s ID card; valid U.S. Pass- Deadline to register to vote, or update an [email protected] voting, called absentee voting port; other government-issued photo identifi- existing registration, for the Tuesday, June 12, Editorial in person in Virginia, is already cation cards issued by the U.S. Government, General Election is Monday, May 21,. Jeanne Theismann ❖ [email protected] underway for the primary. the Commonwealth of Virginia, or a political Deadline to request an absentee ballot to @TheismannMedia There are many valid reasons subdivision of the Commonwealth; Tribal en- be mailed to you is 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 5. to vote absentee in Virginia, including work- rollment or other tribal ID issued by one of 11 Request must be received by your Registrar by ADVERTISING: ing and commuting to and from home for 11 tribes recognized by the Commonwealth of 5 p.m. For advertising information ❖ Deadline to request an absentee ballot by [email protected] or more hours between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Virginia; valid college or university student 703-778-9431 Election Day. Check the Virginia Department photo identification card from an institution appearing in-person is 5 p.m. Saturday, June of Elections list to see if you are eligible: of higher education located in Virginia; valid 9. Absentee in person voting is already under- Debbie Funk way. Display Advertising/National Sales elections.virginia.gov/casting-a-ballot/absen- student ID issued by a public school or private 703-778-9444 tee-voting/index.html school in Virginia displaying a photo; employee [email protected] There are two ways to vote absentee, in-per- identification card containing a photograph of provisional ballot. After completing the provi- sional ballot, the individual voting will be given Julie Ferrill son and by mail. To do either, you should first the voter and issued by an employer of the Real Estate, 703-927-1364 check your voter registration status to make voter in the ordinary course of the employer’s written instructions from the election officials [email protected] sure it is up-to-date. Then you will need to business. on how to submit a copy of his/her identifica- tion so that his/her vote can be counted. Helen Walutes apply for an absentee ballot. If you vote ab- Any registered voter who does not have one Display Advertising, 703-778-9410 sentee in-person you will fill out the applica- of the required forms of identification can ap- A voter will have until noon on the Friday [email protected] tion when you arrive at the in-person absen- ply for a free Virginia Voter Photo Identifica- following the election to deliver a copy of the identification to the local electoral board or to David Griffin tee location. tion from any general registrar’s office in the Marketing Assistant Voting absentee by mail? You can now apply Commonwealth. Voters applying for the Vir- appear in person to apply for a Virginia Voter 703-778-9431 for an absentee ballot online with the state’s ginia Voter Photo ID complete the Virginia Photo ID Card. Voters may submit a copy of [email protected] their ID via fax, email, in-person submission, new Citizen Portal. You will need your Social Voter Photo Identification Card Application, Classified & Employment Security Number and information on your Vir- have their picture taken, and sign the digital or through USPS or commercial delivery ser- Advertising ginia Driver’s License to complete the applica- signature pad. Once the application is pro- vice. Please note that the copy of the ID must 703-778-9431 tion. Information is also provided on how to cessed, the card will be mailed directly to the be delivered to the electoral board by noon on apply if you do not have a driver’s license. voter. Friday, or the provisional ballot cannot be Publisher Jerry Vernon A voter who does not bring an acceptable counted. Also by noon on Friday following the 703-549-0004 In Person Absentee Locations, Fairfax photo ID to the polls will be offered a provi- election, the voter may appear in-person in the [email protected] County sional ballot. office of the general registrar, in the locality in ❖ Editor & Publisher Fairfax County Government Center which the provisional ballot was cast, and ap- Mary Kimm ❖ Franconia Governmental Center Provisional Ballot Process for Voters ply for a Virginia Voter Photo ID Card. At the [email protected] ❖ Lorton Library Who Arrive Without Identification completion of the application process, the voter @MaryKimm ❖ Mason Governmental Center If you arrive at your polling place on Elec- may request a Temporary Identification Docu- Editor in Chief ❖ McLean Governmental Center tion Day without an acceptable form of photo ment. This document may be provided to the Steven Mauren ❖ Mount Vernon Governmental Center identification, don’t panic or give up. electoral board to meet the identification re- Art/Design: ❖ Laurence Foong, John Heinly, North County Governmental Center You will be given the opportunity to vote a quirement. Ali Khaligh Production Manager: Bulletin Board Geovani Flores

Submit civic/community announce- UCM_FoodPantry_AmazonWishList. attorney, guardian, representative CIRCULATION ments at ConnectionNewspapers.com/ Email Assistant Food Pantry Manager WEDNESDAY/MAY 16 payee and more. Come to all classes Circulation Manager: Calendar. Photos and artwork welcome. Von at Your Legal Responsibilities as a or a few. Classes are free and open to Ann Oliver Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two [email protected] or Caregiver. 10-11:30 a.m. at the all. Light refreshments will be served; [email protected] weeks before event. visit at www.ucmagency.org. Hollin Hall Senior Center, located on registration is kindly requested. To 1500 Shenandoah Road, Alexandria. register, call 1-877-926-8300. Among your many responsibilities as South County Task Force Meeting. A Connection Newspaper DONATIONS NEEDED MONDAY/MAY 14 a caregiver are also legal questions 1-3 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at South UCM Needs Help. United Community Mount Vernon Voice Community you have to face. What do you have County Center, 8350 Richmond Ministries (UCM), 7511 Fordson Celebration. 6-8 p.m. at Mount to consider when making decisions Highway Alexandria. The South Road, Alexandria. Inventory is low on Vernon Governmental Center, 2511 for someone else? At what points are County Task Force’s next meeing will disposable diapers especially sizes 4, Parkers Lane, Mt. Vernon. being “just a caregiver” not enough be a double meeting with one session 5, 6; canned tuna and other canned Community Open House to thank to make decisions? How do you go from 1-3 p.m. and a second session meats like chicken; and low-sugar Steve Hunt and Marlene Miller for about getting the authority you from 7-9 p.m., both in the second breakfast cereals. Shop and donate producing the Mount Vernon Voice need? This workshop will cover floor conference room of the South with their Amazon Wish List at: for more than 16 years, and for being making decisions as an agent with County Center. bit.ly/ a “Voice” for the community. health or financial powers of

6 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 ❖ 7 Opinion Remember It’s ‘Teacher Appreciation Week’

By Paul Krizek courage all Virginians to thank and recog- ment that teachers bring to the classroom, ing support from parents, students and com- State Delegate (D-44) nize teachers for their hard work and dedi- theatre and gym and it’s all possible because munity members.“Teachers are the back- cation to all of our children not just this of the great educational environment they bone of our Commonwealth’s economy and his is week but every single day. This work hard to create. I would be we should recognize them every day,” Gov- “Teacher is an especially good time to Commentary remiss if I did not thank the won- ernor Northam said. “During Teacher Ap- Apprecia thank them because they are derful members of the Virginia preciation Week, I encourage everyone to T dealing with that stressful time Education Association who never take the opportunity to thank the people tion Week” in Virginia, and I want of year when students have their final ex- stop fighting for our children. who help shape young individuals into edu- to thank our teachers ams, SOLs, AP tests, end-of-year projects This year marks the third annual “Thank a cated adults, ready to work the jobs of to- for their personal dedication, skill, and ex- and upcoming graduations.Our teachers do Teacher” campaign, sponsored by the Vir- day and create the jobs of perience they provide our children, includ- a fantastic job fostering a nurturing, cre- ginia Lottery in partnership with the Vir- tomorrow.”Someone once said that “It takes ing my daughter, every school day. I must ative environment where students can ginia Tourism Corporation and the Virginia a big heart to help shape little minds.” also thank the many teachers in Fairfax thrive. Parent Teacher Association. In the first two Thank you to all of our wonderful educa- County Public Schools that taught and in- When I visit our schools in our Mount years of the campaign, according to the Gov- tors for your big hearts shaping our spired me.I join Governor Northam com- Vernon and Lee community, I always come ernor, Virginia teachers received more than children’s minds and preparing them for the memorating teachers this week, and en- away impressed by the vitality and excite- 70,000 thank-you notes, due to overwhelm- workforce of tomorrow. An Enthusiastic ‘Bye Bye Birdie’ at MVHS

By Jordan Post get married. Sadly Albert’s mother does all Teens and Theatre Company that she can to keep them apart. Things start to really get out of hand when Kim runs off t was an enthusiastic take on the fa- with Conrad and the kids of the town say Imous Broadway show “Bye Bye Birdie” they’re not going back home. After Conrad by Mount Vernon High School. Set in gets arrested and bailed out by Albert he 1958, the show is about Conrad Birdie heads off to war. Albert finally proposes to whose story is based on Elvis Presley. Rose. Hugo gets back together with Kim and When Conrad gets drafted into the mili- the town goes back to the way things were. tary, his manager, Albert Peterson, gets Mount Vernon High School’s cast is easy Photo by Laura Marshall worried about his money. Albert decides to love and full of energy. Ttendo Williams that before Conrad leaves there plays Conrad Birdie with swag and style. Cappies needs to be a last hooray. He is very believable as a rock star who just Review Albert’s secretary and girl- wants to have fun. His night on the town friend, Rose Alvarez, comes up with Kim MacAfee who is played by Keeley with the idea of one last kiss Bryant doesn’t go as planned. Kim wants to from a fan for Conrad on the Ed Sullivan be treated as a woman. Her protective fa- Show. The lucky girl that was chosen, Kim ther, Harry MacAfee portrayed by Maruro MacAfee, was just pinned by Hugo Peabody, Gomez, doesn’t like the look of this kid. Maggie McClelland and Samuel Zarek in Mount Vernon High School’s a young boy in the town who easily gets Maruro played him perfectly. He made the production of “Bye Bye Birdie.” jealous. When Conrad arrives to the small audience laugh uncontrollably. He has great town of Sweet Apple, Ohio, his fan club is comedic timing, is full of energy, and has a had four student choreographers who defi- was part of the ensemble but really shined waiting for him with eager hearts. Albert strong singing voice. nitely did their homework on the time pe- in the background. The set designers put a and Rose do all that they can to make sure A good counter character is Rose because riod. The choreography was fun, exciting lot of time and effort into the look of the Conrad doesn’t get into any trouble. Rose of Maggie McClelland. We were able to see and incorporated everyone in the cast. backdrop. The show is full of singing, danc- can’t wait till all of this is over so that Albert the struggling character. Maggie has a beau- The ensemble created an electric environ- ing, and love and was executed very well can become an English teacher and they can tiful voice and deliberate moves. The school ment for those around them. Christian Reid by Mount Vernon High School. Chamber Partners with Fort Belvoir to Clean Highway About 25 volunteers turned out last month to cleanup the trash on Jeff Todd Way from Telegraph Road, past US Route 1 where the road becomes Mt. Vernon Me- morial Highway to Fort Belvoir’s Walker Gate. Mount Vernon Lee Chamber of Com- merce and the Fort Belvoir Installation Com- mand hosted their annual “spring clean” highway cleanup, collecting 57 bags of trash and an old desk. Event partners were Candlewood Suites, IGH Hotels Staybridge Suites on Fort Belvoir for providing a shuttle to transport volunteers, and FCPD Mount Vernon Police Station for providing safety support for the cleanup.

Volunteers are ready to be transported to the highway cleanup by IGH Staybridge Hotel shuttle. 8 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com An Old Town Treasure Circa 1840 Impressively sited on a lovely corner in the heart of the southeast quadrant, this iconic Victorian four bed-room plus three and a half bath brick free-standing town home RIIHUVRULJLQDOSLQHÀRRUVKLJK ceilings, front & rear staircases, three bay windows plus brick walled garden. The detached two story carriage house is perfect for a KRPHRI¿FHVWXGLRJXHVWTXDUWHUV or au pair suite. Don’t miss this very special home 500 Duke Street loaded with exceptional charm $2,450,000 and character!

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Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 310 King Street Alexandria, VA 22314 703-518-8300

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 ❖ 9 HomeLifeStyle Ready for Summer Time to dust-off and spruce up patios for a season of

al fresco entertaining. Photo courtesy of Anne W

By Marilyn Campbell

hen designing the patio of her McLean home, interior design professor Jean WFreeman of Marymount University, re lied on the natural surroundings to cre- ate a backdrop for her outdoor oasis. “I have an area in the backyard that has small stones alker and lounge furniture,” she said. “Our backyard is next to Pimmit Run Trail and has lots of trees, some of One design technique that Anne Walker which I planted. Also, I planted several holly trees so has incorporated into the design of her that the area would attract more birds and sometimes own patio is choosing smaller, moveable the bird chirping gets quite loud and wonderful.” pieces of furniture — like these Dedon Gentle breezes and mild temperatures are some of Barcelona lounge chairs — over large the pleasures of spring that beckon many outdoors sectionals to allow for a versatile design for parties and family dinners, but turning a winter- plan. worn patio into a space for entertaining can feel daunting. Breathing new life into a landscape dulled Incorporating potted plants into the landscape de- by snow and frost or creating an entirely new out- sign offers versatility. “Mix several sized plants … very door space might be easier than it appears. large as well as different types of plants in smaller When considering a patio furniture purchase, avoid planters,” added Kelley Proxmire of Kelley Proxmire, the battle against Mother Nature by selecting pieces Inc. “Vary the textures as well as the color of green that can stand up to the elements. “The number one leaves such as ferns, palms and flowering plants.” rule in furnishing your patio is to purchase quality Use planters to create architectural features like furniture,” said Anne Walker of Anne Walker Design walls and borders. “The plants will add beautiful vi- LLC. “There are a lot of outdoor furnishings that look sual interest, and the planters are moveable, allow- alike, but they are not all the same. Dedon, based in ing flexibility in use and design,” said Walker. Germany and Janus et Cie, based in California, make For those who want to build a stone patio, go for lost (adj): 1. unable to find excellent outdoor furnishings that will stand the test variety, but establish a solid base to avoid costly re- of time … [and] will not fade, warp or degrade even pairs later. “Combinations of flagstone and brick are the way. 2. not appreciated if left outdoors in the elements for years. elegant and more interesting than use of only one Less expensive look-alikes will fall apart after just type of materials,” said Walker. “Make sure you have or understood. 3. no longer a few years or months of exposure to the elements, a professional set your patio in concrete. It’s much continued Walker. “I can’t stress it enough: invest in less expensive to set the stone in stone dust, but high-quality outdoor furnishings or you will just be within a year or less the stones will begin to shift owned or known throwing your money away. Buy the best you can and weeds will grow through the gaps.” afford, and work little by little if need be to com- Lighting matters, says Proxmire, and she suggest plete your outdoor space. You won’t be sorry.” that when designing or even sprucing up patio, “Use When choosing fabrics for that furniture, Todd different sources of light [such as] inside-outdoor Martz, co-owner of Home on Cameron in Old Town lamps, different sizes of lanterns, candlesticks with Alexandria, says, “Accessories like pillows and drap- glass hurricanes,” she said. “The candles with bat- eries as well as chairs, sofas and rugs are all avail- teries are great for using outside because the wind able in low maintenance fabrics.” isn’t an issue.” Selecting smaller, easy-to-move pieces of furniture Now that summer is on the horizon, Walker has a over large sectionals will produce a design plan with plan for getting her patio guest-ready. “I will power versatility. “You’ll be happy to have the flexibility to wash with my personal home power washer, plant move things around when you entertain or when the a few flowers and boom! Ready to entertain,” she sun shifts and you want to get into or away from the said. “We love to entertain on our patio. It’s our direct sun,” said Walker. favorite space.”

Photos by Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Helping Animals Find Their Way Since 2001

Volunteers needed for adoption events, fostering, transportation, adoption center caretaking and more. Todd Martz of Home on Cameron designed Kelley Proxmire suggests using plants and this patio and says that exterior spaces Adopt/Donate/Volunteer planters in a variety of sizes — such as can be treated like an indoor room by these blue and white ceramic pots to using bright, fresh fabrics designed spe- www.lostdogandcatrescue.org create a light and airy patio space. cifically for outdoors.

10 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment

Submit entertainment announcements at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- Write Like A Woman endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. Photos/artwork encouraged. Facilitated by poet and author KaNikki Jakarta, Write Like A Woman Networking Workshop ONGOING welcomes women writers ages Customer Appreciation Week and 18-100. Each workshop focuses National Public Gardens Day. on different writing styles and Through Friday, May 11 at Green allows the participants to en- Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring hance their own writing skills as Road, Alexandria. Stop by Green well as share pieces for listening Spring Gardens May 7-11 for free or critiques. The meetings are for gardening discussions, amateur and professional writ- demonstrations, or tours at 11 a.m. ers. Every session includes and afternoon refreshments in honor writing exercises and network- of Customer Appreciation Week and ing. The regulars chip in for National Public Gardens Day (May cookies and tea during the ses- 11). Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ sions. Free and open to the parks/greenspring. public. Saturday, May 12, 1 p.m. Art Exhibit: 2018 Emerging at Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. Artists. Through May 20, daily 10 Please RSVP to a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursday until 9 p.m. at [email protected]. Target Gallery at the Torpedo KaNikki Jakarta Factory, 105 North Union St., Studio 2. Target Gallery, the contemporary exhibition space of the Torpedo shots and learning puck handling members. Visit mountvernon.org/ Factory Art Center, introduces a new skills that the pros use. Players must gardenparty. annual exhibition series featuring the have full equipment. 16 and older. Opening Reception: “A Sense of work of emerging artists of the D.C., visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Herself.” 6:30-8 p.m. at the Art Maryland, and Virginia region. This rec/mtvernon/ or call 703-768-3224 League Gallery, 105 North Union St., inaugural year’s exhibition features for more. Studio 21 (located in the Torpedo the work of Katie Barrie, Ronald Alexandria Cars and Coffee invites Factory Art Center). Watercolorist Jackson, Hollis McCracken, and Holly car enthusiasts to meet for coffee at Deborah Conn celebrates inner Trout. Visit torpedofactory.org/ Hollin Hall Shopping Center in front resilience and strength through partners/target-gallery. of Roseina’s, 1307 Shenandoah Road. luminous, large-scale portraits of Mathematics Show. Through May 20 Owners of classic cars, hot rods, women in “A Sense of Herself.” “A at Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery at exotic cars, motorcycles and more Sense of Herself” coincides with the Torpedo Factory Art Center, Studio meet to share car stories and drink recent swell in the women’s 29, 105 North Union St., Alexandria. coffee. Group meets the first Sunday movement, a coincidence that Conn, Featuring the work of Mary Ann of every month. 8:30-11 a.m. a vocal supporter of women’s rights, Robinson and Sylvia Saborio. The Fifty Years of Collecting. Tuesday- finds serendipitous. Visit beauty of mathematics will be on Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sundays 12- www.theartleague.org or call 703- display: hyperbolic geometry, fractal 5 p.m. Fort Ward Museum, 4301 W. 683-1780. art, the golden ratio, the Fibonacci Braddock Road. An anniversary Ascension Day Choral Evensong. series — all serve as rich sources of exhibit of objects from the Fort Ward 7:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Old Town, 228 inspiration for this theme. Call 703- “Road” by Jing Wang. collection. Free. visit S. Pitt Street, Alexandria. Grant 548-0935 or visit www.fortward.org or call 703-746- Hellmers, organist-choirmaster of St. www.Potomacfiberartsgallery.com. 4848. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Atomic Dog Exhibition. Through Dinner for the Washingtons. 11 Alexandria, will direct the Adult May 27 at Del Ray Artisans Gallery, Photography Exhibit: China in My Eyes a.m. at George Washington’s Mount Choir in music by Archer, Ayleward, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Presented by the Confucius Institute at George Mason University, China in My Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Byrd, Murrill, and Near. Donations Alexandria. The exhibit inspired by Eyes offers a window into China today, taken by a diverse group photographers Memorial Highway. A walking tour and non-perishable foods will be that goes behind the scenes to find accepted for St. Paul’s Lazarus man’s best friend, “Atomic Dog,” is living in northern Virginia. A reception will take place Sunday, May 20, 2-3:30 p.m. presented by Del Ray Artisans and out how food was prepared and Ministry, raising hope for those in The exhibit will run through June 24 at Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Free. served before the era of microwaves need. Contact Grant Hellmers at 703- The Dog Store. It features Call 703-746-1714 or visit alexlibraryva.org. photography, painting, sculpture and and TV dinners. $7 in addition to 549-3312, or mixed media. Visit estate admission. visit [email protected]. www.DelRayArtisans.org/exhibits. www.mountvernon.org for more. Sunset Tour of Local History. 7:30- Attics and Alleys Tours. Saturdays in Blondeau’s canvasses explore second path that Zafran traveled and Evenings at the Athenaeum. 8:30 p.m. at Historic Huntley, 6918 May, tour begins promptly at 9 a.m. memory and perception through the photographed along the way. Visit Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. 7 p.m. Harrison Lane. Historic Huntley sits at Lee-Fendall House, 614 Oronoco lens of her formative years in France. www.multipleexposuresgallery.com. Second Thursday of every month. high upon a hill overlooking Hybla Street; tour ends at Carlyle House by Visit www.nvfaa.org/events/. China Photography Exhibit. visit nvfaa.org to view concert Valley and Huntley Meadows Park. the Market Square parking garage Art Exhibit: “A Sense of Herself.” Through June 24 at Barrett Branch calendar and listen to upcoming It’s a dramatic setting made all the around 11:30 a.m. What mysteries lie Through June 3, gallery hours at the Library, 717 Queen St. Presented by Second Thursday Music artists. more stunning by the setting sun. in the attics of the city’s historic Art League Gallery, 105 North Union the Confucius Institute at George The Monday Morning Birdwalk Join an after-hours tour of the sites? Ever wonder what is behind St., Studio 21 (located in the Mason University, China in My Eyes takes place weekly, rain or shine historic property to see the house in a that brick wall? In honor of National Torpedo Factory Art Center). offers a window into China today, (except during electrical storms, different light. After the tour, enjoy Preservation Month, explore spaces Watercolorist Deborah Conn taken by a diverse group strong winds, or icy trails), at 7 a.m. light refreshments. For adults, $5 per not normally open to the public at celebrates inner resilience and photographers living in northern (8 a.m. November through March), is person. Dress appropriately for the Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, Carlyle strength through luminous, large- Virginia. A reception will take place free, requires no reservation and is weather. Call 703-768-2525 or visit House, Lee-Fendall, and the scale portraits of women in “A Sense Sunday, May 20, 2-3:30 p.m. Free. open to all. Birders meet in the www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Apothecary Museum. Tour highlights of Herself.” “A Sense of Herself” Call 703-746-1714 or visit parking lot at the park’s entrance at historic-huntley. include historic graffiti, hidden coincides with the recent swell in the alexlibraryva.org. 3701 Lockheed Blvd. Direct questions Jury Panel Talk: 2018 Emerging architectural fragments, and alleys women’s movement, a coincidence Mount Vernon Farmers Market to park staff during normal business Artists. 8 p.m. at Target Gallery at that connect the city. This tour that Conn, a vocal supporter of Opens. Wednesdays, 8 a.m.-noon at hours at 703-768-2525. the Torpedo Factory, 105 North includes walking over many city women’s rights, finds serendipitous. Sherwood Hall Regional Library, Union St., Studio 2. Target Gallery, the contemporary exhibition space of blocks, stairs, and access to confined Get herbs, garden plants, and 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, THURSDAY/MAY 10 spaces. Walking shoes required, flowers. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays Alexandria. Every Wednesday the Torpedo Factory Art Center, bottled water suggested. Held rain or and Sundays through mid-June at the (through Dec. 19), 15 local farmers Special Access Tour of the Murray- introduces a new annual exhibition shine. Tickets must be purchased Mount Vernon Unitarian Church, and producers will sell fresh produce Dick-Fawcett House and Happy series featuring the work of emerging ahead at alexandriava.gov/Shop. Greenhouse, 1909 Windmill Lane, and fruits; meats; breads and Hour. 5:30-7:30 p.m., at 517 Prince artists of the D.C., Maryland, and Benson Bond Moore Landscapes. Alexandria. Volunteers grow dozens pastries; honey, jams and jellies; St. Enjoy touring this 18th-century Virginia region. This inaugural year’s Through May 31 at Studio Antiques of tomatoes and vegetable varieties, dairy products and eggs; herbs; and house, recently purchased and now exhibition features the work of Katie and Fine Art, 524 North Washington herbs, and flowers from seeds and more. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ owned and operated by the City of Barrie, Ronald Jackson, Hollis St., Alexandria. Free admission. Over cuttings using organic practices. Visit parks/farmersmarkets. Alexandria. After the tour, stop by a McCracken, and Holly Trout. They 70 paintings and numerous natural www.Mvuc.org. Open for Tours. Through December. happy hour in the garden to catch up were selected by a jury panel history prints from the estate of a New Photography By Fred Zafran. At 9000 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria. with other preservationists. $10 consisting of Ksenia Grishkova, private collector will be on display. Through June 17 at Multiple Woodlawn and Frank Lloyd Wright’s donation requested, cash bar. director of Touchstone Gallery; Blair Examples include views of Exposures Gallery, in The Torpedo Pope-Leighey House is open for tours Advance registration recommended Murphy, independent curator; and Washington, D.C., Virginia, Factory, 105 N. Union St., Studio Friday through Monday, from 11 at alexandriava.gov/Shop. Jack Rasmussen, director and curator Maryland, Pennsylvania and North 312, Alexandria. With “Along the a.m. until 4 p.m. (last tour at 3 p.m.) Spring Garden Party. 6-8 p.m. at at the American University Museum Carolina. Call 703-548-5188 or visit Poet’s Narrow Road,” Zafran Not open to the public Tuesday, George Washington’s Mount Vernon at the Katzen Arts Center. Visit www.studioantiques.net returned to Japan in 2016 to Wednesday or Thursday. To learn Estate. Host Chef Patrick O’Connell, torpedofactory.org/partners/target- Art Exhibit. Through June 3 at The photograph along the pilgrimage of more about National Trust Sites, visit founder of the Inn at Little gallery. Athenaeum, 201 Prince St., Japan’s most famous poet Matsuo savingplaces.org/historic-sites. Washington, will share inspiring stories about his journey to culinary Alexandria. Two Solos: Brian Basho. The journey unfolded along Pick-Up Hockey. Ongoing, FRIDAY/MAY 11 Williams and Sophie Blondeau. two paths: an external journey of Wednesdays and Fridays 11:30 a.m.- acclaim. Enjoy signature cocktails Williams’ paintings on metal want things observed, and an internal 1 p.m. at Mount Vernon Ice Skating, and light fare inspired by O’Connell’s Alexandria After Work Concert viewers to consider if humans can journey of images that moved the 2017 Belle View Blvd. Play hockey recipes. Tickets are $150 for Mount Series. 6-8 p.m. at the Murray-Dick- adapt without catastrophe. traveler’s heart and mind. It was this with other hockey buffs, hitting slap Vernon members and $175 for non- Fawcett House, 517 Prince St. The www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 ❖ 11 Entertainment Noodle Box Brings Fast-Casual Asian Fare Back to King Street

By Hope Nelson and at the beginning I thought ‘that’s not going to sell.’ It’s called spicy basil chicken. It’s chicken stir- or more than a decade, noodles, rice and Asian fried with vegetables with basil and chili sauce.” Ffare have been a mainstay at 602 King St. For Served with jasmine rice, the spicy basil chicken years, Red Mei was in residence; now, after has become somewhat of a sleeper classic, several months of vacancy, Noodle Box has made it- Nimmannit says. self right at home. “At the beginning, I even told my friend that I The two restaurants are unrelated, says Noodle Box wanted to remove it, but now we have to keep it,” co-owner Ken Nimmannit. The owners of Red Mei he laughed. were planning for retirement; when Noodle Box has faced the usual growing pains of a Appetite they did, Nimmannit and his business new restaurant — occasional lengthy waits for meals partner, Tommy Kanavivatchai, and longer than usual lines. But Nimmannit is com- swooped in to take over the space, keeping an Asian mitted to working through that, he says, emphasiz- fast-casual focus on the forefront of King Street. ing the balance between cooking from scratch and “We came up with the idea that we want to be keeping the kitchen efficient. able to serve the food, the authentic food — the same “Our restaurant — we cook to order. Sometimes kind of food that is served in fancy restaurants,” he when we have a lot of business … it might take some said. time. I hope customers understand. We cook every- One of the first things Nimmannit and team did thing from scratch, it’s properly cooked,” he said. was freshen up the By the looks of things on space’s décor. After a regular weeknight, cus- more than a decade as If You Go tomers don’t seem to mind Red Mei, the eatery had the occasional wait for Noodle Box, 602 King St. become a bit dated; Hours: 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. daily. food. And while Noodle Noodle Box is now Try this: The spicy basil chicken. “People may be hesitat- Box has already become a bright and airy, with a ing because they’ve never seen it. When you say the name pad destination for the work- modern feel. Thai, yakisoba, (or) red or green curry, they’ve seen that al- day set, Nimmannit says ready. … Once they try it, they like it,” says co-owner Keng But what really Nimmannit. he hopes to see more brings in the customers neighbors drop by at is the food – and night. Noodle Box has a wealth of options from which to “I would love local people, other residents, any day choose. Whether looking for a meat-based plate or a they don’t want to cook for themselves, come by and vegan-inspired entrée, with either rice or noodles, we’ll cook for them,” Nimmannit said. “They can eat Noodle Box has diners covered. properly cooked food at our place and the price is The menu selections run the gamut from the fa- really reasonable.” miliar to the more exotic. Hope Nelson owns and operates the Kitchen Recessionista “One of the best sellers is pad Thai … and we have blog, located at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her any another popular dish that they don’t serve anywhere time at [email protected]. Calendar

Folklore Society of Greater Franconia Road, Alexandria. www.labellastradadelray.com. Washington and The Office of Presented by Rose Hill Elementary Floral Design Workshop Tropical Historic Alexandria sponsor a concert School’s Rose Hill Players. Tickets are Flowers. 9:30-11 a.m. at Green on the second Friday of the month $7/adults; $5/children; $1/children Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring with locations rotating between the at matinee. Call 703-765-6046. Road, Alexandria. For 16-adult. Murray-Dick-Fawcett House, Lloyd Warm up to the flowers of Hawaii House, and The Lyceum, Alexandria’s and the exotic tropics to create a History Museum. The May 11 concert SATURDAY/MAY 12 contemporary style arrangement. features father/daughter duo Michael Car “Boot” Sale. 8 a.m.-noon at St. Designer Chuck Mason leads & Paty Sevener with their boleros, Luke’s Episcopal Church, 8009 Fort participants through the project. rancheros, and other Spanish folk Hunt Road, Alexandria. Sell items Register for both program ($38/ songs. $15 suggested donation for from the trunk of your vehicle. Cost: person) and supply fee ($30/person). the musicians, light refreshments $20 to rent a parking spot, free to Register online at available, and a cash bar. Visit attend, open to the public. Email www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ www.fsgw.org. Dawn McMillin at parktakes using code 290 233 3901 History by the Glass. 7-9 p.m. at [email protected] or call 703-780- for the program and 290 233 3902 Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 North 9418. for the supply fee, or call 703-642- Royal St. Ever wonder about the Build a Rain Barrel. 9-11 a.m. at 5173. Visit www.greenspring.org. history behind your alcoholic Alexandria Renew Environmental Carnivorous Plants Container beverages? Enjoy drinks at the Center, 1800 Limerick St., Workshop. 10-11:30 a.m. at Green tavern, which historically served a Alexandria. Interested in living green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring wide variety of beverages, and learn and protecting the Chesapeake Bay? Road, Alexandria. For ages 16-adult. about the history behind them. Rain barrels collect rain water and Construct a take home container of Special featured gin will be the reduce erosion from a downspout carnivorous plants with the help of Founding Farmers Gin from and help save money on water bills. Horticulturalist Judy Zatsick. Cost is Founding Spirits distillery, based in Attach a hose to a rain barrel and use $38/person for the program, with a Washington, D.C. $50 per person, it to water plants and flower beds. $35/person supply fee. Register for includes two drink tickets and light Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/soil- both the program and the supply fee. hors d’oeuvres. Tickets can be water-conservation/rain-barrel. Register online at purchased through alexandriava.gov/ “La Bella Strada: An Italian Street www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Shop or by calling the Museum at Painting Festival.” 9 a.m.-3 p.m. parktakes using code 290 287 4101 703-746-4242. Along Mount Vernon Avenue for the program and 290 287 4102 between Bellefonte and Hume for the supply fee, or call 703-642- avenues in Alexandria. The event will 5173. Visit www.greenspring.org. FRIDAY-SATURDAY/MAY 11-12 center on 20 community-based Mother’s Day Craft Workshop. 10 “Pirates of the Curry Bean.” Friday professional artists creating sidewalk and 11:30 a.m. at Alexandria Black at 7 p.m.; Saturday at 1 p.m. and 7 paintings using chalk as an artistic History Museum, 902 Wythe St. p.m. at Edison High School, 5801 medium. Visit Looking for a heart-warming gift the

12 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment

Patrick Kirwin has homes on this year’s tour include a Cameron St., Alexandria. Enjoy some stunning renovation to a classic Del tea and read a poem that honors your been an art teacher Ray rowhouse, new, custom mother or other nurturer. Remember at the Art League in construction, a re-imagined to bring them with you to this one of La Bella Strada: Alexandria, since Victorian, an old farmhouse carefully a kind event. Visit the Office of the renovated for a young family, an Arts’ website at 1994. He has also open floor plan highlighted by art www.alexandriava.gov/Arts, email An Italian Street been an art teacher and color, and a bungalowupdated the Poet Laureate at at the Fine Arts by its architect owners. This year the [email protected], or contact Painting Festival proceeds will be donated to the Del Cheryl Anne Colton at Workhouse in Lorton Ray Gateway Project and the Nancy [email protected]. Reviving the street painting tradition of Renais- for two years, The sance-era Europe, La Bella Strada will offer patrons Dunning Memorial Garden. Rain or Edible Landscaping. 3-4:30 p.m., an afternoon of interactive public arts program- Smithsonian Associ- shine. $30. Tickets can be purchased Barrett Library, 717 Queen St. Small at www.delraycitizens.org or at the Space Gardening: Edible Landscaping ming. The event will center on 20 community-based ates for 10 years and Del Ray Farmers Market. – even if space is tight in the yard, professional artists creating sidewalk paintings us- the Corcoran College Write Like A Woman. 1 p.m. at edible plants can be incorporated ing chalk as an artistic medium. Saturday, May 12, of Art and Design for Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. into a garden design. Discuss how to 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Along Mount Vernon Avenue between Facilitated by poet and author reshape a small yard into a more Bellefonte and Hume avenues in Alexandria. Visit three years. KaNikki Jakarta, Write Like A sustainable landscape, and how to www.labellastradadelray.com. Woman Networking Workshop install and maintain new edible Photos by welcomes women writers ages 18- plantings. Free. Advance registration Leslie Duss 100. Each workshop focuses on requested at mgnv.org. Call 703-228- different writing styles and allows 6414 or email [email protected]. Nicole Flaig, of Arlington, has been partici- the participants to enhance their own pating in Street Painting festivals across the writing skills as well as share pieces for listening or critiques. The MAY 12-JUNE 13 United States since 2004. She began painting meetings are for amateur and Water’s Edge Exhibition. At alongside her mother, Beatrice Flaig, in professional writers. Every session Broadway Gallery, 5641-B General Florida and continued on to win competi- includes writing exercises and Washington Drive, Alexandria. The networking. Free and open to the solo exhibit by Christine Lashley, tions, such as People’s Choice awards in both public. Please RSVP to “Water’s Edge,” explores her Colorado and Connecticut. She strives to try [email protected]. fascination with water in more than different techniques at nearly every festival, Water’s Edge Reception. 2-6 p.m. at 40 paintings of fragile watersheds, Broadway Gallery, 5641-B General shorelines, and gardens. Visit sometimes including 3D perspectives. More Washington Drive, Alexandria. The broadwaygalleries.net. often than not, you will find her paintings to solo exhibit by Christine Lashley, be dynamic, bright, and boldly colorful. “Water’s Edge,” explores her fascination with water in more than SUNDAY/MAY 13 40 paintings of fragile watersheds, Mother’s Day Tea. 1-3 p.m. at Green shorelines, and gardens. The artist Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring kids can make for Mother’s Day? ages 4+ is $5, adults are $2. Space is Buffet brunch is $35 per person. will do an art demonstration on Road, Alexandria. Registration Meet in the Watson Reading Room limited; reserve space at 703-746- Children ages 12 and under $15. Saturday, May 12, from 2-3 p.m., required. Celebrate the special day where instructors and local artists 4356. Bottomless mimosa bar is $15 per followed by an opening reception with afternoon tea and a reading of will guide children in the art of Mother’s Day Jazz Brunch. 11 a.m.- person, single mimosa $7. Tickets from 3-6 p.m. Visit classic poems about mothers that crafting with yarn. Crocheting, 1 p.m. at Mount Vernon Unitarian available at Eventbrite.com, search broadwaygalleries.net. explore the many aspects of knitting, sewing, and weaving are all Church, 1909 Windmill Lane. “Jazz Brunch.” Poetry and Tea, Honoring Mothers motherhood, from the emotional to forms of needlework and textile Featuring the Dan Lamaestra Trio, a 2018 Del Ray House and Garden Through Poetry. 2:30-4 p.m. at the entertaining, the heroic to the handicrafts. Admission for children formidable group of jazz musicians. Tour. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Some of the 12 the Durant Arts Center, 1605 humorous. $45/person. Call 703-

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 ❖ 13 Entertainment

941-7987, TTY 703-324-3988. Visit www.greenspring.org. SUNDAY/MAY 20 Visit with Dolley Madison. 1-5 p.m. Senior Walk. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Oronoco Bay Park near United Way Royal St. On Mother’s Day, First Lady Worldwide Building, 701 North Dolley Madison will be at Gadsby’s Fairfax St. Help us to get seniors on Tavern Museum. Guests tour the their feet and walking. The event will museum will be able to have informal raise funding for Alexandria non- conversations with her as Mrs. profits. Net proceeds benefit United Madison recalls her experiences with Way of the National Capital Area. motherhood and public life. Included $25. Call 703-539-2549 or visit in the regular museum admission of www.seniorwalk.org. $5 per adult, $3 per child under 12. Classics & Critters: A Celebration Special for Mother’s Day, all adult of Spring. 2 p.m. at The women enter for free. Call 703-746- Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. The 4242 or visit Mount Vernon Flutes, a quartet www.gadsbystavern.org. ensemble from the Mount Vernon The President’s Own Band. 2 p.m. Community Band, will perform a at Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert seasonal concert with lush melodies, Hall, Northern Virginia Community interesting harmonies, and engaging College, Alexandria Campus. Marine rhythms drawn from a variety of Band: Leonard Bernstein Centennial genres. Free. Call 703-548-0035 or Celebration. Visit www.nvcc.edu. visit nvfaa.org. Mother’s Day Tea. 2:30 p.m. at Photography Exhibit Reception. 2- Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax St., 3:30 p.m. at Barrett Branch Library, Alexandria. Cost is $45/adult; $25/ 717 Queen St. Presented by the child (6-12); children under 5 free. Confucius Institute at George Mason Treat your mother, grandmother, or University, China in My Eyes offers a another special woman to an elegant window into China today, taken by a afternoon tea. Relax in the beautiful Untitled by Sylvia Saborio, diverse group photographers living in setting of the Magnolia Terrace and northern Virginia. The exhibit will enjoy personalized tableside service Macramé necklace. run through June 24. Free. Call 703- and food catered by Calling Card 746-1714 or visit alexlibraryva.org. Events. Registration required; no The Ocean Orchestra in Concert. 7 refunds. Visit www.novaparks.com. p.m. at George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive. “Whirlwind” by Sponsored by FocusMusic, Ocean MONDAY/MAY 14 Mary Ann Orchestra is where ancient ballads Writing Poetry: Building Bridges. meet cutting-edge electronics, where Writing poetry about building Robinson, Brioche the Bagpipes meet the Beatles, and bridges. What are the bridges in your hand-knit scarf where fans of all generations and life that you notice: bridges in need musical tastes can enjoy the same of repair, bridges that allow you concert Tickets are $18 in advance at access, bridges that you wish for, Mathematics in Art www.focusmusic.org/buy-tickets and bridges that you dream about? Wendi Featuring the work of Mary Ann Robinson and Sylvia Saborio. The beauty of mathematics will be on display: Hyperbolic for members, $20 at the door. R. Kaplan, Poet Laureate, City of geometry, fractal art, the golden ratio, the Fibonacci series — all serve as rich sources of inspiration for this theme. Through Alexandria invites you to join her for May 20, gallery hours at Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery at Torpedo Factory Art Center, Studio 29, 105 North Union St., Alexan- MONDAY/MAY 21 three Mondays in May where poetry dria. Call 703-548-0935 or visit www.Potomacfiberartsgallery.com can be read and written. RSVP at Writing Poetry: Poetry about [email protected]. Diversity. Celebrate the richness available for purchase. On-line famous poet Matsuo Basho. Visit SATURDAY/MAY 19 and importance of diversity; address registration is required at www.multipleexposuresgallery.com. the issues of race, culture, sexual TUESDAY/MAY 15 Shop.Alexadndriava.gov. The Big Plant Sale. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at “Troubles & Triumphs.” 3 p.m. at orientation, and other topics of Family Stories in Genealogy. 1-3 Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Del Ray United Methodist Church, diversity through poetry. Wendi R. Spring Road, Alexandria. More than 100 E. Windsor Ave. Sopranessence p.m. at Mount Vernon Genealogical FRIDAY/MAY 18 Kaplan, Poet Laureate, City of Society, Hollin Hall Senior Center, 40 local garden vendors descend on presents its last show of the 2017-18 Alexandria invites you to join her for 1500 Shenandoah Road, Alexandria. FHP Food Fest. 4:30-7:30 p.m. at Carl Green Spring Gardens with beautiful season to raise funds and awareness three Mondays in May where poetry Board-certified genealogist Chuck Sandburg Middle School, 8428 Fort and unusual plants to fill spring for the Alexandria-based nonprofit, can be read and written. RSVP at Mason will speak on how to handle Hunt Road, Alexandria. Featuring gardening needs. Growers and We Will Survive Cancer. “Troubles & [email protected]. family stories in the course of your food trucks plus face painting, Master Gardeners are on hand to Triumphs” is a concert of songs that Garden Buds. 10-11 a.m. at Green effort to figure out the trust about petting zoo, balloon animals, yard help with plant selections and will take you from the trials and Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring ancestors. The talk is called “Myths, games, crafts and more. Entrance: $5 gardening advice. Proceeds benefit tribulations of everyday life to the Road, Alexandria. For ages 2-3. Meet Fairy Tales, and Stories Grandma person, $20 max per family, and the gardens. FROGS members receive triumphs that thrill. Tickets are $25 in the Children’s Discovery Garden Told.” Visit www.mvgenealogy.org. children under 2 are free. Visit 10 percent off plants in the Garden at www.sopranessence.org. one Monday a month. Children enjoy www.FortHuntPreschool.com. Gate Plant Shop. Visit Paws for the People: Dog Show. 3- different sensory materials out in the Community Celebration and www.greenspring.org. 6 p.m. at Market Square in Old Town garden, rain or shine. Cost is $5/ WEDNESDAY/MAY 16 Scholarship Fundraiser. 6:30- Fort Tours. 10-11:30 a.m. and 2-3:30 Alexandria. The Olde Towne School child. Register online at AHA Anniversary Celebration. 2-4 9:30 p.m. at The Howard Gardner p.m. at Fort Ward Museum & Historic for Dogs and Frolick Dogs Canine www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ p.m. at the Cameron Club, 200 School, 4913 Franconia Road. Join Site, 4301 West Braddock Road. Sports Club will sponsor Paws for the parktakes using code 290 202 8602 Cameron Station Blvd. At Home in The Howard Gardner School Soldier-led tours of historic Fort People. The event will be comprised or call 703-642-5173. Visit Alexandria (AHA) invites the community for their annual HGS Ward will be held in honor of Armed of three show rings running www.greenspring.org. community to celebrate seven years Community Celebration and Forces Day. Tours are free, and begin concurrently: Obedience, Agility, and of service to the Alexandria Scholarship Fundraiser. The in the Museum. No reservations are The Center Ring. All proceeds benefit community. The event is free and evening’s events include a cocktail required. Tours are weather the Lazarus Food Pantry of Christ TUESDAY/MAY 22 open to the public. Free. Call 703- hour, silent auction, dinner buffet dependent. Visit www.fortward.org Church Alexandria, a supermarket- Twilight & Tipple Tuesday Tours. 231-0824 or visit provided by La Prima, live music by or call 703-746-4848. style food pantry in Alexandria. 6-9 p.m. at Woodlawn & Pope- www.athomeinalexandria.org. The Tyler Rose Band, raffle, door T&ES Open House. 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Competition slots will be limited; Leighey House, 9000 Richmond Trumpet, Violin, Organ, Piano prizes and a live auction finale. at 2900 Business Center Drive. Join online registration can be found at Highway. A rare opportunity to Concert. 7:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Old Admission is free. Visit the City of Alexandria in recognizing bit.ly/Paws4thePeople. experience Frank Lloyd Wright’s Town, 228 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria. hgsauction.weebly.com. the contributions of public works Country-Western Dance. Lessons, 6- Pope-Leighey House by twilight. This Music will be by composers Cazzati, Community Dance. 7:30-9:30 p.m. at professionals during National Public 7 p.m.; open dancing, 7-9:30 p.m. at tour is a chance to see one of Gardner, Bach/Vivaldi, Messiaen, Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Works Week. The City’s Department Lincolnia Senior Center, 4710 North Wright’s houses illuminated against a Rachmaninov and others. Contact Shenandoah Road. Live music with of Transportation & Environmental Chambliss St. The Northern Virginia night sky, bring a new dimension and Grant Hellmers at 703-549-3312, the Mount Vernon Swing Band. Open Services (T&ES) will kick off the Country-Western Dance Association radiance to the typical tour [email protected]. to the community. $4, at the door. week by hosting its second annual will hold a dance; a DJ provides experience. Grab a drink, included in Film Screening: Rosenwald. 7-9:30 Call 703-765-4573, TTY:711. Open House. This free event will take music. Couples and singles of all ages the price of the ticket, and take an p.m. at The Lyceum, 201 S. place rain or shine. Activities will welcome. Admission for NVCWDA informative and fun guided tour with include: Touch-a-Truck; Children’s members $10; non-members $12; Washington St. In honor of FRIDAY-SUNDAY/MAY 18-20 plenty of time to take stunning Preservation Month in Alexandria, Traffic Garden; Composting Station; children under 18 accompanied by a photos. Visit Preservation Virginia, the Office of Spring Wine Festival and Sunset and representatives from GO Alex, paying adult $5. Smoke-free, alcohol- www.woodlawnpopeleighey.org. Historic Alexandria and the Tour. 6-9 p.m. at George DASH, Capital Bikeshare, Vision free. BYO refreshments. Visit Alexandria Historical Society will Washington’s Estate, 3200 Mount Zero, and Eco-City Clean Waterways www.nvcwda.org. host a screening followed by Vernon Hwy., Mount Vernon. Sample will be on hand to talk about these Navy Band Concert. 7 p.m. at at MAY 22-JUNE 24 discussion of the film, Rosenwald. wines from Virginia’s finest wineries programs and initiatives. Visit Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall Doubling Up Show. 10:30 a.m.-5:30 This documentary tells the story of while enjoying views at the estate. alexandriava.gov/TES. and Arts Center, 4915 E. Campus p.m. daily at The Potomac Fiber Arts how businessman and philanthropist Celebrate the history of wine in Photography Reception. 2-4 p.m. at Drive. The United States Navy Band Gallery, in the Torpedo Factory Art Julius Rosenwald partnered with Virginia with exclusive evening tours Multiple Exposures Gallery, in The will perform a wide variety of Center, Studio 29, 105 North Union Booker T. Washington in the early of the Mansion and cellar, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., bluegrass and country tunes that St., Alexandria. The theme focuses on 20th century to construct 5,500 appearances by George and Martha Studio 312, Alexandria. With “Along follows the band’s history throughout duality, as in the use of two or more schools in rural African American Washington, and a live music.Tickets: the Poet’s Narrow Road,” the years. Free, open to the public techniques in one piece or work communities in the South. Admission $38-$48. Visit mountvernon.org. photographer Fred Zafran returned and no tickets are required. Call 202- created collaboratively with another is free. Refreshments will be to Japan in 2016 to photograph 433-4777 or visit gallery artist. Themed work will be along the pilgrimage of Japan’s most www.navyband.navy.mil. eligible for recognition by the jurors. 14 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment

Visit Potomacfiberartsgallery.com or Celebrate Mount Vernon At Home. call 703-548-0935. 4:30-7 p.m. at George Washington’s River Farm, American Horticultural Society, 7931 East Blvd. 10th annual WEDNESDAY/MAY 23 gala celebration for Mount Vernon At Lecture: Exploring the Covert Home honors Executive Director Capital. 7:30 p.m. at The Lyceum, Barbara Sullivan who will be moving 201 S Washington St. The Alexandria out of the area. Gala features food, Historical Society and the Office of entertainment, silent and live Historic Alexandria present Dr. auctions. Tickets are $75, available at Andrew Friedman’s Covert Capital. www.mountvernonathome.org. Learn how U.S. foreign policy following World War II played out in the suburbs of northern Virginia, MAY 25-JULY 15 which furnished cover for clandestine Caroline Hatfield: Unearthing. At activity. $5 for non-members, and Target Gallery in the Torpedo Factory free to members of the Alexandria Art Center. Growing up in a Southern Historical Society. Memberships can Appalachian coal mining community, Photo by Jennifer Heinz be purchased at the door. Visit the subjects involving www.alexandriahistorical.org. environmentalism and land use have a lot of personal significance to Hatfield and she recalls the region’s THURSDAY/MAY 24 ironic juxtaposition of protected Getaway to River Farm and Mount wilderness and mined land as a Vernon. 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Meets major influence on her work. at Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Hatfield’s work explores concepts of Spring Road, Alexandria. Cost is $98. utopia and science fiction through Includes motor coach, admission and the experience of sites, landscape, lunch. Visit the home and gardens of and materiality in her the American Horticultural Society at interdisciplinary practice. Visit AHA Board Chair Jane King and Alexandria artist Carol Siegel at the 6th Anniversary River Farm. Tour the gardens and www.torpedofactory.org. Celebration in May 2017 held at the Cameron Club. enjoy a picnic lunch. Then visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon to tour the mansion and the gardens SUNDAY/MAY 27 followed by a sightseeing cruise on An Afternoon with Good Queen AHA Anniversary Celebration the Potomac River. Visit Bess. 1-3 p.m. at Green Spring At Home in Alexandria (AHA) invites the community to celebrate seven years of service to the Alexandria community. The www.greenspring.org. Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, event is free and open to the public. The theme of the party will be “Music for Life” and will feature live music by AHA mem- Garden Tour and Tea. 1-3 p.m. at Alexandria. Actress Mary Ann Jung ber Lynn Falk and her mandolin group, as well as a discussion with violinist Jennifer Wade and retired music teacher Jane Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green gives a performance as Queen White about the value of music throughout the lifespan. Wednesday, May 16, 2-4 p.m. at the Cameron Club, 200 Cameron Spring Road, Alexandria. Tour the Elizabeth I, the monarch who Station Blvd. Free. Call 703-231-0824 or visit www.athomeinalexandria.org. springtime demonstration gardens presided over England’s Golden Age with a master gardener docent telling from 1558 to 1603. Setting aside stories of Green Spring past and politics, Good Queen Bess 7987, TTY 703-324-3988. Visit the Alexandria Black History Continental breakfast and snacks present. Afterwards, enjoy a demonstrates the lighthearted www.greenspring.org. Museum, 902 Wythe St., Alexandria. provided; bring lunch. Cost is $75 traditional English tea. Programs are aspects of the Elizabethan court, Led by author Sheila Moses. Learn to which must be paid online by May 31 by reservation only. $32/person. Call including food, fashion, manners and tell a good story, what publishers at shop.alexandriava.gov. Call 703- 703-941-7987, TTY 703-324-3988. dance. Programs are by reservation SATURDAY/JUNE 2 look for in a new author and how to 746-4356. Visit www.greenspring.org. only. $45/person. Call 703-941- Writer’s Workshop. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at make story ideas a reality.

A Community Favorite Since 1904

Since 1904, The Royal has been Old Town’s Favorite neighborhood restaurant. Award-winning menu includes prime rib, fresh seafood, roast chicken best burgers hand-carved roast turkey and salad bar. Serving Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner Full Buffet with Save 50% Omelette Station On second dinner entree Saturday and of equal or lesser value Sunday Brunch when you mention this ad. 7am-2pm Offer expires 5/31/18. 734 North St. Asaph Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 703-548-1616

ALEXANDRIA’S NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT • SINCE 1904 RoyalRestaurantVA.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 ❖ 15 Sports

Photos by Jon Roetm

an/The Gazette

Third baseman Jennavieve Miller, left, and shortstop Katie Jo Moery are West Potomac pitcher Annabelle Bates threw two shutout innings on two of the West Potomac softball team’s top producers. Monday against T.C. Williams. New Coach, New District, Continued Winning season, but for the remaining three years day, she went 2-for-4 with a triple and two crown since 2005. With the Gunston Dis- WPHS softball of her high school career. The middle in- RBIs. trict tournament approaching, the Wolver- fielder went 2-for-3 with three RBIs, includ- Miller said last season’s run to a confer- ines have their sights set bringing home a eyes consecutive ing a solo home run to lead off the bottom ence championship, which included a vic- second straight championship. of the fourth inning. tory over Patriot power Lake Braddock in “I would very much like to win the [dis- district titles. “It was high, inside, [in] my wheelhouse the tournament semifinals, was a confi- trict] — it’s kind of my big … goal,” Davis By Jon Roetman — that’s usually where I hit it,” Moery said dence boost and the team is looking for- said. “Overall, I think we are very, very tal- The Gazette of the pitch she deposited over the fence in ward to the next challenge. ented and I think they need to see that. I right-center. “Luckily, she gave it to me.” “It was amazing,” Miller said. “… We fi- think it’s hard being young, because in the new head coach and a new dis- Moery played second base for most of the nally beat Lake Braddock, we beat West back of their mind they always think, ‘I have trict haven’t stopped the West season but recently moved to shortstop. Springfield, we got the championship, so another year, I have another year.’ If they Potomac softball team from ex Davis, who played college softball at George what’s next?” can just capitalize on the talent they have A Mason, praised No. 21’s versatility and soft- Last year’s Patriot Conference title was now and then use that going forward, periencing success. One year af- ter winning the Patriot Conference cham- ball IQ. West Potomac’s first conference/district they’re going to be hard to beat.” pionship in then-head coach Craig “Any freshman coming in and being as Maniglia’s final season, the Wolverines find talented as she is, it’s difficult to know your themselves in position to compete for an- place because you belong, obviously, but other title under a different set of circum- you don’t want to step [on] anyone’s toes stances. being a freshman,” Davis said. “But with her, Kara Davis, former West Potomac JV head she brings in a level of talent as a freshman coach and varsity assistant, is now head that you just don’t see that often.” coach of the varsity squad, which is part of Fellow freshmen Asia Reeves and Trystany the new Gunston District. While some of Urdininea also had big games for West the details — and several of the players — Potomac. Reeves went 3-for-4 with a pair have changed, the winning has continued of doubles and an RBI, and Urdininea fin- for the Wolverines, who improved to 6-1 in ished 2-for-2 with a triple and an RBI. district play with a 14-4, five-inning victory “I wasn’t really sure what we had coming over T.C. Williams on Monday at West in,” Davis said. “… I had no idea that our Potomac High School. freshman class coming in this year was as The Wolverines batting order included six stacked as they are so it’s very exciting to players who were freshmen or sophomores. know that we have three, four years ahead That didn’t stop West Potomac from explod- of just pure talent.” ing for nine runs in the first inning and cruis- Not every Wolverine is a newcomer, how- ing to victory. ever. “I think overall they came [into the sea- Sophomore pitcher Claire Davidson was son with a] high [level of] confidence — the MVP of last season’s Patriot Conference and with this game, confidence is key,” tournament but has been battling a back Pirates Davis said. “We are a very young team and injury of late, Davis said. Junior Annabelle Browne Academy’s Advanced Handbells Ensemble participated in we have a lot of our starters that weren’t Bates started in the circle on Monday, pitch- the Washington Independent Schools Handbell (WISH) Festival, held here last year, so I think it’s kind of a battle ing two scoreless innings. at Landon School in Bethesda on April 30. The event brought to- between knowing where we came from and Junior infielder Jennavieve Miller is in her gether middle and high school handbell groups from the Washing- knowing what we can do for the future.” third varsity season and was a member of ton area for a day of performance and collaboration. Browne’s Freshman leadoff hitter Katie Jo Moery’s last year’s all-tournament team. Miller ensemble, consisting of 15 6th-8th graders, performed “Pirates of the performance Monday gave West Potomac played shortstop for most of the year be- Caribbean,” with music teacher Brittany Brandt conducting. fans reason for optimism not only for this fore recently moving to third base. On Mon- 16 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Sports

Photos by Lauren Colunga

2017 FHLL Seniors team — winners of Virginia State Championship. Fort Hunt LL’s Opening Day From Page 3 1979 and sponsored Fort Hunt Little League that year mending Resolution recognizing 2017 as the most and every year since with over $1,500 contributed successful season in the Fort Hunt Little League’s each year. history with its 10Us, Majors, Intermediate and Se- “We were proud to kick off our 62 years of Fort niors teams winning Virginia Little League District Hunt Little League with our opening day ceremony 9 Championships and with the Majors and Seniors and have been celebrating local baseball for boys and teams both moving on to clinch the Virginia State girls ever since,” said Barry Meuse, president, Fort Championship in their divisions. Hunt Little League board of directors. Larry Gray accepted the FHLL Lifetime Sponsor “With almost 600 kids on 54 teams supported by Award on behalf of his local hardware store, Village more than 200 volunteers, this is what Little League Hardware. Village Hardware opened its doors in is all about.”

Mike Lewan (left), previously FHLL presi- dent and starting his 27th year as a FHLL umpire, and Rene Belanger, long-time Larry Gray, owner of Village Hardware, FHLL manager and volunteer and cur- accepts the FHLL Lifetime Sponsor Award rently general manager West Potomac from Barry Meuse, FHLL president. Baseball.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 ❖ 17 Still Haven’t News Seen the Light Upgrades By KENNETH B. LOURIE From Page 1 Wow!. I just saved “Up to $504 ** “ (not including the two asterisks), and all I did was bond that voters approved. buy a six pack of LED light bulbs. So it says on The equipment is dated, the rooms are the package anyway. small, the pool needs a new filter system, Maybe I should buy another six-pack and the dressing areas are in need of updating, save even more money? There are only two problems (just two?) with this plan. First, I and the parking needs a total redesign. Built don’t see a rebate-type form to complete and on a hillside off Belle View Boulevard be- return and; in lieu there of, neither is there a tween Richmond Highway and the Potomac guarantee, considering my health situation, River, the parking lot and entrance are ma- that I’ll even live long enough (“Lasts 13+ jor concerns to everyone involved. There are Years”) to realize the benefit/savings of not three levels of parking which can be quite a spending additional money on light bulbs. (Are they even called light bulbs any more? I walk from the top parking level to the cen- don’t see it printed on the package ter. “Too many stairs,” said Inman. anywhere.) The plan is divided into Phase I, II and And while I’ll definitely enjoy not spending III, just as many large construction projects money on light bulbs – or whatever they’re are. The $20 million is just for Phase I, called, I won’t enjoy wondering if I’ve now spent money on light bulbs that I don’t actu- which would involve a new entrance, mod- ally need and/or likely will never even use. I ern health and fitness rooms, updated mean, I have previously – because as a coun- locker rooms, and pool renovations with try/consumer we’ve had no other choice, new plumbing and filtering additions. The given that the incandescent light bulb ship has “gang” showers, as one member of the au- sailed – bought replacement light bulbs. I don’t remember however, if the bulbs were dience called them, would be replaced. LED, Halogen, Incandescent, CFL, Glass panels would be used in many places, Fluorescent or who knows what? Literally. similar to the library which is right down Certainly not me. the hill. My only light-bulb-related talent is screw- “Is the glass ‘bird safe’ asked one woman. ing them into the fixture as I’ve written about previously. (Do you remember I called myself Some chuckled but it was a serious ques- “Tauras Bulba”?) In fact, I may very well have tion acknowledged Inman. already installed light bulbs that are going to James W. Ritter was from Ritter Norton last for years so it’s possible there isn’t even a Architects, the firm also involved with the need to allocate dollars and sense to bulb library construction nearby. The parking inventory – or even to write this column. and entrance from both sides — Fort Hunt I suppose that if I’m serious and/or inclined to shine a light on this problem, I Road and Belle View Boulevard — are need to get organized, either on my com- points of contention. “The biggest problem puter or in pen in a notebook (Sort of like we have is the grade differential,” Ritter how my wife’s Italian grandfather, Cesare, did said. regarding Christmas cards. He had years of But Phase I only goes so far. In Phase II, notebooks with names listed with boxes alongside, checked or not, for cards sent which has only been funded for design, will and/or received) to identify which encompass a second ice rink and relocat- lights/fixtures have which kind of light bulbs ing the parking lot entrance, and possibly so I’ll know whether it’s likely I’ll actually add another entrance off Belle View Boule- need to spend money on replacement light vard. It will not move forward until another bulbs. If the light bulbs really are going to “Last bond is in place. “We’re real early,” said 13+ years,” (as is also printed on the pack- Inman, trying to quell any additional ex- age) then I might not need to buy them any pectations from the audience. Construction more, for awhile, anyway. As a result, light is scheduled to start in 2020 and be com- bulbs will no longer be a regular purchase like pleted in 2022. toilet paper, paper towels, laundry detergent, etc. Instead, they will become an irregular For the Steimans, a hockey family that purchase like batteries, sponges and the like. hauls skating equipment up a few staircases Now, if I really can stop this unnecessary to their car, any talk of a second rink is good. light-bulb-redundancy, I should have a few “I think it’s awesome,” said Sam Steiman, extra dollars that I can allocate elsewhere on while his son Joe pointed out that “most of real necessities – like candy, cookies and ice the other clubs have two rinks, in Reston cream. Having sorted out the light bulb task ahead and Ashburn,” he said. of me; in addition to saving money, I will have saved time as well. And who wouldn’t want to save time and money? Everybody. Timeline However, saving it in this excruciatingly bor- ing/mundane manner has limited appeal, I Milestone Schedule would guess. Kickoff Meeting Jul/2017 Concept Masterplan Meeting Sept/2017 But, we’re not just saving pennies here; Concept Options Meeting Nov/2017 potentially, according to the light bulb’s pack- Final Concept Design Jan/2018 aging, we are apparently saving hundreds of FCPA Director & Supervisor Mtgs.Feb-Mar/2018 dollars, and hundreds are worth saving. PAB Info Item Apr/2018 Unfortunately, the dollars saved are not Citizen Meeting May/2018 exactly in-pocket. They’re more dollars which Schematic Design Documents Jul/2018 won’t be spent out-of-pocket. Not as direct as PAB Scope Item Sept/2018 a rebate, but more like an indirect benefit Design Development Documents Nov/2018 such as money saved from the installation of Citizen Meeting Dec/2018 energy-efficient windows or placing insulation 50% Construction Documents Mar/2019 in your attic. 80% Construction Documents May/2019 Either way, it’s money not in somebody 100% Construction Documents Jul/2019 else’s pocket. I just wish the manufacturers Obtain Permits Dec/2019 could figure out a way to pay me today, espe- Bid Project Dec/2019 cially since I paid them yesterday. Start Construction* Feb/2020 Final Completion for Phase I Jul/2022 Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for * Phased construction: New and updated spaces open The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. as completed. 18 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com SPECIAL SAVINGS FOR YOUR TOYOTA

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www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 ❖ 19 20 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ May 10-16, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com