Spring 2018 HomeLifeStyleHomeLifeStyle

Style

Inside

Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A Connection Newspaper March 15, 2018 Life

Alexandria Lo cal Me dia Con Gazette Packet nect ion LLC

o nline at www .conne ctionn ewspap ers.com Intersection of Business and EducationHome Chamber hosts Brabrand, three principals at Belle Haven Country Club.

By Steve Hibbard

The Gazette Photos by Steve Hibbard/The Gazette

he Fairfax County Schools Superinten- T dent Dr. Scott Brabrand and three local principals explained the in- terconnections between business and education at the Mount Dr. Matt Ragone, principal Vernon Lee Chamber of of South County High Commerce’s March 8 Business School. Breakfast at the Belle Haven Coun- try Club. Kathryn Falk, vice presi- Following a welcome from dent of Cox Business. Chamber President Sonja Caison, About 50 people attended the meeting of the Mount who runs The Cleaning Authority, Vernon Lee Chamber of Commerce meeting on Thursday, she introduced some strategic March 8 at the Belle Haven Country Club in Alexandria. partners, including Cox Business Vice President Kathryn Falk, and has been overseeing 2,700 stu- cipal at Langley High and now at some new chamber members. Be- dents at West Potomac, said she is South County since late 2014, sides Brabrand, the three princi- looking forward to partnering with added: “One of the projects we pals who spoke were Dr. Tangy the local business community. “As have is a Military Connected Youth Millard, principal of West business owners, you know what Process Action Team. I’m working Potomac; Dr. Matt Ragone, princi- you need coming out of high with the student services depart- pal of South County; and Dr. An- school and college are students ment, and our goal is to make sure Dr. Anthony Terrell, thony Terrell, principal of Mount who can collaborate; students who the community knows and has the principal of Mount Vernon Vernon high schools. can problem-solve; high-order information to support military- High School. “First of all, FCPS is open for thinking skills; innovation; cre- connected youth as they transition business. We are here to forge new ation — so, we’re moving into this in and out of Fairfax County,” he and deeper relationships with the next layer of learning,” she said. said. “Fairfax County does a tre- business community,” said “Starting in 2020, our high schools mendous amount for these kids Sonja Caison, president of Brabrand, a former classroom vol- are looking to be one-to-one across and these families but not every- the Mount Vernon Lee unteer, social studies teacher, and the board, and that means every body knows about it. So, our goal Chamber of Commerce. principal in Fairfax County student will be given a laptop that is to get the word out on how to schools. “Good schools are good they will use as their tool for welcome kids in and help them for business. And good business school learning throughout the transition out.” conditions are also good for school year, and our school district He continued: “Our big initiative schools. We need to continue to will be supporting that.” also is to become the best aca- attract and develop and enhance In addressing a school-business demic institution in South County, the business climate here in Fairfax partnership, she added: “We will in the state of Virginia. Our AP County for a great quality of life, need the level of support from the scores are going up; our AP enroll Dr. Scott Brabrand, Super- for more opportunity for our kids learning side where you guys (lo- intendent of Fairfax County as they graduate and for our whole cal businesses) bring real-world See Brabrand, Page 20 Public Schools. community to be successful.” experiences to our students — giv-

During his talk, he touched on ing them opportunities to hear

three “E’s” and a “J” — Excellence, from you, coming as visitors and 3/16/18

Equity, Effectiveness and Joy. “My speaking about what you do ev- home in Requested material.

focus is about making Fairfax ery day as business owners, as well Time-sensitive County Public Schools the pre- as what skills are necessary to do Postmaster:

miere school system in this coun- the work that you do, and also giv- Attention

Permit #482 Permit

Dr. Tangy Millard, principal try and a beacon school system ing our students the opportunity VA Alexandria,

PAID of West Potomac High really in the world,” he said. to intern with you.” Postage U.S.

School. Millard, who for seven months Ragone, who was a former prin- STD PRSRT www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette Editor Steven Mauren News 703-778-9415 or [email protected]

Teens at Stony Brook Apartments praised Making a Difference in Smarter Growth presentation. By Mary Paden

group of teens, who received county awards for their regular Agrounds and stream cleanups around their Stony Brook apart- ments and Little Hunting Creek, were fea- tured in a “walking tour and forum series” event of the Coalition for Smarter Growth last month. The nonprofit coalition spon- sors educational events and works in the metro area to help plan for growth that is green and transit-centered. In the community room of Stony Brook Apartments at 3600 Buckman Road, Stewart Schwartz, executive director of the coalition, Monica Billinger of the Audubon Naturalist Society, and others gave presen- tations on how the planned EMBARK de-

velopment along Route 1 may influence Photos Contributed stormwater management in Hybla Valley. Schwartz saw EMBARK as an exciting chance to right some of the wrongs of de- velopment of the 1950s that paved over huge areas for parking lots and channeled streams to carry flood water to the river as fast as possible, gouging themselves out and removing all life forms. Lee District Supervisor Jeff McKay (center) praised teens who participated in several stream clean-ups. New trends in development allow runoff water to soak back into the Corporation, which owns the 204 volvement of communities, especially youth, Dangale said she was still getting used to it ground through green sur- apartments. The apartments in protecting streams as they flow through but feels like she is helping out. faces, holding ponds, and sport solar panels on the roofs neighborhoods. The teen group is two-time defender of meandering streams before and rain barrels at the drain- Various civic leaders, some from the the Fairfax County Youth Volunteer Group reaching the river. Billinger pipes. The grounds are litter downstream areas of the creek, attended of the Year Award from Volunteer Fairfax, stressed the importance of free, thanks in part to the stu- the briefing. They were joined by Lee Dis- and is nominated again — and Racheal is neighborhoods’ understand- dents suggesting trash cans trict Supervisor Jeff McKay on the grounds nominated for Youth Volunteer of the Year. ing the water cycle and act- near the mailboxes. along the creek, which is fenced off from Barton, who works full-time at Stony ing to keep water clean Little Hunting Creek origi- most apartment property. Brook, is now also working with CPDCs through rain capture, stream nates on the east side of Route Asked why they participated in clean ups, other properties to expand youth volunteer clean up, green spaces, and 1 and runs behind Walmart, the teens — three girls and two boys — gave opportunities in locations such as Southeast, other environmental actions. Costco and Audubon Mobile the first reason as “he [Barton] gives us D.C.; Reston, Va.; and Silver Spring, Md. Five of the dozen or so teens Home Park, then turns east food” — pizza to be exact. But Barton noted “People are listening to young people, from the apartments who have runs through large residen- that the teens kept working many hours these days,” McKay said. “When our com- Trash awaiting participated in about 10 stream tial developments such as after the pizza was finished. munity was built here there were no envi- clean up. clean ups attended the meeting Creekside, Sequoia, and Stoney “At first I didn’t want to touch those dirty ronmental standards and most of the prob- and told the community leaders Creek. It parallels Buckman Road and flows things,” said Stephanie Agyemang-Manu, lems we see are a result of that. As the area who attended why they helped out. back under Route 1 where it widens and “but now I find clean- up relaxing — sort of redevelops with EMBARK, this is exactly the The teen group is led by Ryan Barton, flows through residential areas to enter the therapeutic.” Racheal Appiah said she just right time to be in this part of the county. manager of community impact strategies for Potomac River at Riverside Park. Barton and wanted to help out her community. Carmela We are focusing on all positive things.” Community Preservation and Development Billinger stressed the importance of the in-

Ryan Barton, manager of community impact strategies for Community Preservation and Development Corporation, which owns Stoney Brook Apartments, surrounded by his teen volunteers shows a group of civic Lee District Supervisor Jeff McKay applauded the work of the group and leaders how the creek flows through several apartment complexes. said, “This is exactly the right time to be in this part of the county.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 ❖ 3 4 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News

SUNDAY OPEN Alex/Riverside Estates $589, 900 NEW 1-4 8543 Mount LISTING Vernon Hwy Photo Contributed Newly remodeled 3 level colonial w/ 4 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, huge over- sized garage, all on a lovely .41 acre lot. New baths and a stunning new open kitchen w/ white cabinetry, Northern Virginia Brady Chapter President Martina Leinz, state Sen. Barbara Favola granite counters, ss appliances, recessed lighting & an island w/ (D-31) and Del. Paul Krizek (D-44) address the crowd about gun violence prevention breakfast bar. Large, bright Living Room w/ fireplace, separate at St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church on Feb. 25. Dining Room w/sliding glass doors to deck, and Family Rm w/ sliding glass doors to screened porch overlooking beautiful & flat bkyd. Gorgeous hardwood floors, newly refinished. New carpet- How To Prevent Gun Violence ing and paint. Lower level Rec Rm w/fireplace. One mile to GW Parkway, Potomac River and Mt. Vernon Estate. It’s a 10! Advocates meet at St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church. Alex/Potomac Valley $562,000 1-4 8807 Vernon View Drive eople — some of them coming from as far advocates, including lobbying their elected represen- Lovely 4BR, 2BA, 4 lvl, Split on a lg, OPEN away as Maryland and Arlington — filled the tatives, making sure their children aren’t visiting beautiful .3 acre lot w/a fenced bkyd. P Freshly painted interior & beautiful re- parish hall of St Aidan’s Episcopal Church to homes with unsecured guns, attending the monthly SUNDAY finished hdwds. Main lvl has a spacious capacity on Sunday, Feb. 25 to find out ways they NRA protest/vigil and participating in the March for & cozy Family rm w/gas FPL, 4th BR, & 2nd full bath. Upper level #1 offers can take action to help prevent mass shootings and Our Lives in Washington, D.C. on March 24. an open kitchen plus Living & Dining reduce the nation’s gun violence. In addition, Northern Virginia Brady Chapter Presi- Rm. Upper level #2 has a full bath & 3BRs. The lower level has a lg partially Members of the Northern Virginia Chapter of the dent Martina Leinz presented the Brady Campaign’s finished Rec rm. Good price on a super lot & very nice home that you can add Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence handed legislative focus: some personal touches to. out a two-page flyer with five actions for aspiring See Gun Violence, Page 22 Mt. Vernon Grove $574,900 9336 Heather Glen Drive Beautiful 4BR, 2.5BA colonial w/2 UNDER car garage on the Potomac River side of Mount Vernon. .34 Acre. Li- CONTRACT brary on main level. Family rm w/ fireplace off the kitchen w/French doors to bkyd. Dressing room & walk-in closet adjoin the spacious Master suite. Separate Dining & Living rms. Unfinished basement w/walk-up steps. Minutes to Ft. Belvoir (S) & 15 minutes to Old Town, Alex, (N). Alex/Mt. Vernon Manor $585,000 4317 Granada Street Beautifully remodeled 4BR, Split: Kitchen, Baths, DBL pane windows, 6 panel doors-Large Garage- All on a SOLD spectacular .52 acre lot. Stunning covered porch off the dining rm overlooking a magnificent landscaped/ hardscaped back yd w/an unbelievable spectacular 40’x 20’ pool. Absolutely amazing, nothing like it in Mt. Vernon! LL offers 2 large BRs, plus remodeled bath plus family rm & gas fpl. A lovely den has built-in shelves & and a newer double pane SGD which opens to a beautiful covered patio also overlooking the phenomenal yd & pool. All this for under $600K!! Your chance to buy it now before everyone can see how the spring weather will turn this beautiful yd into a wonderland! Alex/Mt. Vernon Forest $614,900 9123 Cherrytree Drive Large, Beautiful, 4BR, 3BA Split w/ a spectacular open and renovated kitchen SOLD ($75,000) – Gorgeous Refinished hard- wood floors on main level, gas fireplace, double pane replacement window- Stunning screened-in porch overlooks backyard- Separate utility and workshop rooms offer tons of storage- Throw-in updated roof, HVAC system plus a large circular driveway- Great Price!! Alex/Waynewood Around $600’s 8534 Riverside Road Lovely 4BR, 3BA Split w/DBL carport in COMINGSOON Stratford Landing Elementary District. Numerous updates including Kitch- en, Baths, tankless HWH, DBL Pane windows, exterior siding, beautiful hdwd floors on main level and lovely laminate (like hard wood) floors throughout lower level. Fenced back yard w/a wood deck and brick patio- Short walk to Stratford elementary. This is a keeper!!

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 ❖ 5 News

Pearson Parker as West Ford West Ford Shares History

Bushfield Plantation in Westmoreland Tales from the past County, Va., to Venus, a mulatto slave woman owned by George Washington’s at Gum Springs. brother, John Augustine Washington and his wife, Hannah. Hannah’s will decreed that By Mary Paden “the lad called West” was to be set free at the age of 21 and he was. However, follow- very few years, West Ford, who ing the death of George Washington in was once enslaved on Mount 1799, Ford was brought to Mount Vernon EVernon plantation and later Plantation by Bushrod Washington, a son founded the Gum Springs Com- of John Augustine and Hannah. When munity, comes back to tell his story. Bushrod died in 1829, he willed 160 acres Local writer and actor Pearson Parker, of land adjacent to Mount Vernon to West dressed in period costume and sitting at a Ford, who continued to live on the Mount table lit by an oil lamp, narrated the story Vernon estate. of West Ford at a dinner the- Pearson described Ford’s life ater last month at Gum Springs at Mount Vernon as a paid Community Center, sponsored tradesman who was taught to by the Gum Springs Historical read and write and who mar- Society. ried a free black woman and The audience listed to Ford, had four children, noting that represented as in his 70s, de- “we were even given a wed- scribe his concerns as the Civil ding in 1812 at the First Pres- War approached. “Because of byterian Church of Alexan- certain tumultuous events, I dria.” Ford sold the land he re- told my family not to stray too ceived from Bushrod and in far from home,” he said. “I am Pearson Parker 1833 bought 214 acres he had known here and some Quakers long wanted, and area called will try to protect us, but I worry about what Gum Springs on Little Hunting Creek, now is happening.” Following the 1831 Nat near Route 1 and Fordson Road. While Turner rebellion in Virginia, Ford had to take working at Mount Vernon, he also started his family to Alexandria to be registered (as working the land at Gum Springs and sav- reported in the Alexandria Gazette). The ing to build a house. By the time he moved 1857 Dred Scott Supreme Court decision his family there, some of his children were threatened the freedom of even free blacks, grown and able to help with the work. who were often captured and sold, and the As he pondered the possibility of war, Ford 1859 Harpers Ferry raid by John Brown re- said he didn’t know if the family would be sulted in further repression of blacks. able to remain in control of the property, Ford spoke from the perspective of Feb. “but I can only hope that as it is passed along 27, 1861 when seven southern states, but it will retain its name.” not yet Virginia, had seceded from the Ford died in 1863, but as was read in an Union, and the new president, Abraham epilogue to Pearson’s performance, after the Lincoln, had just arrived in Washington war the community grew to include a under threat of assassination. church (Bethlehem Baptist Church), and a “I fear for millions in the South all types school, and has continued to grow, with of freedoms would be lost if the Southern several descendants of Ford remaining in state secede,” Ford said. the area. They formed the Gum Springs Ford was born in 1784 or 1785 on the Historical Society in 1984. 6 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 ❖ 7 Opinion

www.MountVernonGazette.com Successes in the State Legislature @MtVernonGazette An independent, locally owned weekly By Scott Surovell deaths are on the rise nationally and in Vir- that those NVTA funds may not be available newspaper delivered State Senator (D-36) ginia due to distracted driving and this would for U.S. 1 improvements in Fairfax and Prince to homes and businesses. Published by have saved lives. I will try again next year. William counties. I will urge Governor Northam Local Media Connection LLC ast week brought I am especially proud of successful legisla- to amend the bill. an end to the tion that I carried with a companion bill by Last week, I met with several state officials. 1606 King Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314 Lregular 2018 ses- House Appropriations Committee Chairman First, I met with Virginia Department of Trans- sion of the Gen- Chris Jones providing compensation to four portation (VDOT) officials to address the pend- Free digital edition delivered to eral Assembly. Once again, men who were wrongfully convicted of rape ing U.S. 1 widening between Fort Belvoir and your email box. Go to connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe I had some significant suc- after being coerced into false confessions by a Hybla Valley. You can read an update in my cesses. The legislature sent 13 of my 61 bills corrupt Norfolk detective currently in federal online newsletter at NEWS DEPARTMENT: to Governor Northam for his signature. Legis- prison. The four former sailors, known as “The scottsurovell.blogspot.com. I also met with [email protected] lators continued 15 to 2019 for studies and Norfolk Four,” spent between eight to 12 years VDOT about granting them authority to regu- Steven Mauren referred several to agencies for administrative in jail and another eight-plus years out of jail late large signs on our interstates to avoid the Editor, 703-778-9415 consideration. on the Sex Offender Registry. The legislation debacle last week when some I-95 lanes were [email protected] While several of my budget amendments authorizes the state to compensate them $3.5 shut down for three days by a Potomac Mills’ Jean Card were included in the Sen- million if the City of Norfolk at least matches 140-foot sign that fell down. Production Editor ate budget, including fund- that amount. Convicting the innocent is bad I also met with state economic development [email protected] Commentary ing the first staff at brand enough, but it is especially wrongful if it is officials to discuss Virginia’s designation of Andrea Worker new Widewater State Park achieved through intentional law enforcement areas to be included in the federal Opportu- Contributing Writer in Stafford, we unfortunately adjourned with- misconduct. nity Zone Program, which would incentivize [email protected] out adopting a biennial budget due to the Sen- The legislature also approved a bill to pro- redevelopment in low-income or high-unem- Jeanne Theismann ate Republican Caucus’s refusal to include Med- vide a $154 million dedicated funding stream ployment areas. Prince William County has [email protected] icaid expansion into their budget. Budget dis- for Metro. refused to share their submission to the state @TheismannMedia cussions have completely stalled out and Gov- This money will now need to be matched by with me and Fairfax County prioritized the ernor Northam will call us into special session Maryland and the District of Columbia, but it Amazon site in Herndon over U.S. 1 although ADVERTISING: at some point in the next two months. is desperately needed to make up for 20 years I am not aware of any low-income areas around For advertising information [email protected] This week, my amendment to a delegate’s of funding neglect. the Amazon site. I hope to provide persuasive 703-778-9431 bill to prohibit operating a moving motor ve- Metro funding is good news, but I am very information to the state about the 36th District’s hicle while drivers have a phone in their hand disturbed that the Senate’s proposal to increase U.S. 1 Corridor, a designation that could yield Debbie Funk Display Advertising/National Sales died after passing the Senate 29-11. Due to the Northern Virginia hotel tax and grantor’s significant benefit to this highway’s future. 703-778-9444 fiscal impacts of amendments loaded onto the tax (the tax on home sales) was omitted. Be- Please let me know if you have any feed- [email protected] bill requiring a racial profiling study, opponents cause of this, an additional $50 million per year back on this session at Julie Ferrill were able to push the bill into a conference will be diverted from the Northern Virginia [email protected]. It is an honor to Real Estate, 703-927-1364 committee where it died. Car accidents and Transportation Authority (NVTA). This means serve as your state senator. [email protected]

Letters to the Editor Helen Walutes Display Advertising, 703-778-9410 “homeschooling.” Yes, I can under- [email protected] The Correct stand that avenue due to certain David Griffin circumstances but, and that is a big Marketing Assistant Thing To Do 703-778-9431 but, the lack of the interaction [email protected] To the Editor: between peers and the obvious The letter to the editor written lower level of educational rigor Classified & Employment Advertising by Mr. H. Jay Spiegel published on cannot be overemphasized. I will 703-778-9431 March 14, criticized state Sen. vote for Sen. Surovell in 2019 if, Scott Surovell for his opposition as we say on the golf course, I am Publisher to homeschooled students partici- still on top of the grass. Mr. Spiegel Jerry Vernon pating in interscholastic activities. convinced me 100 percent it is the 703-549-0004 [email protected] Of course Mr. Spiegel did exten- correct thing to do. sive research on Sen. Surovell’s Editor & Publisher voting record on education issues Melvin R. Bielawski Mary Kimm [email protected] that I was happy to read was 100 Alexandria @MaryKimm percent. In his letter Mr. Spiegel referred to the term “elite univer- Editor in Chief Convincing Steven Mauren sities.” I have to admit I wondered Art/Design: Photo by Mike Salm what he meant by “elite universi- Laurence Foong, John Heinly, ties.” I agree 100 percent with Mr. Argument Ali Khaligh Production Manager: Surovell’s opposition to the issue To the Editor: Geovani Flores of homeschooled students partici- I was amused by Jay Spiegel’s pating in interscholastic activities. letter to the editor in the March 8 CIRCULATION In fact in consideration of hav- issue of the Mount Vernon Gazette. Circulation Manager: ing my three sons attending the In it, he purports to uncover the Ann Oliver

on/The Gazette [email protected] Fairfax County public schools from “true motivation” (his words) be-

elementary through high school hind state Sen. Scott Surovell’s A Connection Newspaper schools and the career successes opposition to legislation concern- all three have experienced I have ing home-schooled students — to wonder why any parent would legislation which never made it want to have their children home out of committee this year in Rich- schooled. I have written several mond. Snapshot books relating to WW II. If I had Spiegel suspects that it stems A truck struck by a tree in the Newington part of the the time and the years remaining from endorsements Senator Mount Vernon district after the March 2 windstorm. I would like to write a book on the Surovell received from the Virginia subject, i.e., the pros and cons of See Letters, Page 22 8 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Aldersgate Church Community Theater proudly presents March 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 & 24 at 8:00 pm Death by Design March 11, 18 and 25 A comedy with at 2:00 pm Murder! Directed by Eddie Page Produced by Charles Dragonette & Jennifer Price More Info: acctonline.org Aldersgate United Methodist Church 1301 Collingwood Road Alexandria, VA 22308

Photo Contributed

Orchestra Clinic The Mount Vernon High School Orchestra students led by Al Rodriguez participated in a clinic with author, clinician, professor, and recent winner of the Ohio Music Educators Associations Collegiate Strings Teacher of the Year award Dr. Kathleen Horvath. Horvath ran clinics throughout the day with the students. This was an opportunity for the stu- dents to engage in a pre-assessment clinic experience. MVHS Orchestra presented Horvath with an honorary MVHS Orchestra Varsity Letter.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 ❖ 9 Opinion Crew Team Seeks Support Following Damaging Storm By Rebekah Wharton Treasurer Mount Vernon Crew Boosters

he fierce wind storm that swept the region on March 2, knock- Ting down trees and disrupting power to thousands of custom- ers over the weekend, took its toll on a lo- cal crew team before moving out. The Mount Vernon High School rowing team lost four racing shells to falling trees during the gale.

Two of the damaged boats, the Alpha and Photos by Jamie Kirk the Bravo, had been purchased recently and had not yet been officially named. Also de- stroyed were the Rocky, named after a former coach, and the Commander, donated to the team by the Mt. Vernon Yacht Club. While the Majors purchase their equipment used, new shells can cost as much as $30,000 new. The team carries insurance, Mount Vernon High School rowing team lost four racing shells to falling trees due to the March 2 storm. but the replacement cost exceeds the value of the lost equipment. raises money for operating expenses Many generous supporters of the team and stores its boats there during the row- The Mount Vernon program, which is not through rower fees and fundraisers, includ- have already stepped forward with offers ing season. Nearly half the team members supported by Mount Vernon High School or ing bake sales, car washes, and Bingo. Many of assistance. According to head coach are military dependents. The booster club Fairfax County, will have to raise money for community members may have seen the Jamie Kirk, the team is particularly grate- is a certified 501(c)3 charitable organiza- repairs and replacement. According to the rowers going door-to-door on a soggy Sat- ful to have received donations from other tion. team treasurer, the gap between the insur- urday in February during the annual Tag rowing teams in the area. “The camarade- Donations can be made to Mount Vernon ance coverage and the cost of acquiring new Day fundraiser when the team asks their rie of the rowing community and specifi- Crew Boosters, P.O. Box 205, Mount Vernon, (used) equipment will run as high as friends and neighbors for support. “The cally of our teams here in Northern Virginia VA 22121-0205, or online at https:// $15,000. rowers were trudging through the rain all has been fantastic,” said Kirk. “The fund- www.gofundme.com/mv-crew-boat-fund. Community support has played a signifi- day to raise money to pay competition fees,” ing, offers of using boats, and the words of The team is also looking for an additional cant role in the growth and success of the said the team treasurer. “Now we are going encouragement point to the strong kinship assistant coach. Contact Mount Vernon crew team, which is enter- to have to find new ways to raise money” and cooperation of our sport.” [email protected] for more informa- ing its 16th season of competition. The team to pay for the damaged shells. The team rows out of Ft. Belvoir Marina tion. State Legislature Adjourns without a Budget

By Adam Ebbin topics that I’ve received from constituents. sisting on a version of the budget that ex- ington Metropolitan Area Transit Author- State Senator (D-30) As I reflect on the session, it is impossible cludes health coverage for 400,000 Virgin- ity (WMATA) General Manager Paul to ignore that we adjourned without adopt- ians, strikes teacher pay raises, has fewer Wiedefeld to address essential capital fund- he 2018 legisla- ing a biennial budget. investments in renewable energy, and omits ing needs. We were able to arrive at a sus- Ttive session ad- Crafting a budget is one of our funding for background checks on firearm tainable solution for our vital transit infra- journed “sine- primary constitutional duties as sales. I anticipate the governor structure needs, but two proposed tax in- die” on March 10, and state legislators and leaving Rich- Commentary will call us into a special session creases in Northern Virginia (on real estate as dozens of cars with mond without one means that lo- to adopt a budget within the next transactions and hotel stays) that had been multi-colored bumper calities, school divisions, and state month. included in the original Senate version, stickers and House and Senate license plates agencies cannot finalize their own budgets. After touch-and-go negotiations between were eliminated from the final bill. This departed to different corners of the Com- Governor Northam, the House of Delegates, House and Senate Conferees, the General change requires existing regional transpor- monwealth my staff worked through the and Senate Democrats all agree on the mer- Assembly has approved $154 million in tation funds from the Northern Virginia weekend, helping me send out responses its of Medicaid expansion, with only Sen- funding for Metro (SB856) — Virginia’s Transportation Authority (NVTA) to be re to 906 informative emails on 107 different ate Republicans standing in the way — in- portion of $500 million called for by Wash- See Adjourning, Page 21 Learn About Adver sing in the Connec on and Digital Op ons! AAdverdver singsing iinn tthehe CConneconnec onon aandnd uupcomingpcoming sspecialpecial ssecec ons:ons: cconnectionnewspapers.com/advertisingonnectionnewspapers.com/advertising or call 703.778.9431

10 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com HomeLifeStyleHomeHomeLifeStyleSpring 2018 LifeStyle

The 85th Historic Garden Week in Virginia includes tours of homes and gardens in Great Falls, McLean and Vienna hosted by the Garden Club of Fairfax on Tuesday, April 24, 2018. The featured historic home was once the Hunting Lodge for Lord Fairfax for whom Fairfax County is named, a privately owned home, beautifully preserved and not often open to the public, dating to the mid 1700s. One garden is designed like a quilt because the owner of this historic house is a world renown quilter. [email protected] for tickets. www.vagardenweek.org

Photo by Donna Moulton/Fairfax Garden Club www.ConnectionNewspapers.comLocal Media Connection LLC onlineMount at www.connectionnewspapers.com Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 ❖ 11 12 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com HomeLifeStyle Mid-Century Modern Mecca on Tour April 28

id-century modern fans Robert Davenport and architect Charles don’t have to head to Palm Goodman. It was the first community in the M Springs to appreciate stun- Washington, D.C. metro area to be made ning examples of mid-cen- up entirely of contemporary homes. Every tury modern architecture and landscape. other year visitors are invited inside the Visitors are invited to tour the largest en- homes for an up close look during the Hollin clave of mid-century modern homes in the Hills House and Garden Tour. This year’s Washington, D.C. region during the 2018 self-guided tour showcases 10 examples of Hollin Hills House & Garden Tour in Alex- mid-century modern architecture and land- andria on Saturday, April 28.The neighbor- scape Saturday, April 28 from noon until 6 hood even has a connection to AMC’s “Mad p.m. Recognized many times in the past for Men,” as the show’s production designer, its architectural and design vision, Hollin Dan Bishop, grew up in Hollin Hills and says Hills was listed on the National Register of the neighborhood inspired his design sen- Historic Places in 2013, and is a Virginia sibilities. Landmark Historic District. Visitors coming for the home tour can Visitors can also tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s make a weekend of it by staying in Old Pope-Leighey House, minutes from Town Alexandria and also visiting Frank Alexandria’s Hollin Hills neighborhood. This Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey House, a “usonian” style house was designed by “usonian” style home in Alexandria that Wright in the 1940s and was one of the first represents Wright’s dream of creating af- types of affordable housing for the middle fordable housing for the middle class. End class. Tours are available beginning in April the weekend by shopping in Old Town Al- Friday through Monday from 11 a.m. until exandria at one-of-a-kind mid-century mod- 4 p.m. (last tour begins at 3 p.m.). Tickets ern boutiques. Find exquisite vintage cock- are $15 for adults; $7.50 for students; $12 tail ware and bar ware by designers like for seniors and active military with ID; and Dorothy Thorpe at The Hour then head to The 2018 Hollin Hills House & Garden Tour is scheduled for are free for children 5 and under. At 1,200 Acme Mid-Century + Modern for vintage Saturday, April 28. square feet, visitors will see how Wright’s and modern furniture, sculptures and art. combination of high ceilings, large expanses Located minutes from Washington, D.C. largest enclave of mid-century modern enclave comprised of more than 450 glass- of glass, and an open floor plan creates the and tucked away in a quiet neighborhood homes in the region — the Hollin Hills enclosed minor masterpieces built from the just south of Old Town Alexandria is the neighborhood. Hollin Hills is a modernist late 1940s to the early 1970s by developer See Hollin Hills House, Page 14

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 ❖ 13 HomeLifeStyle 85th Virginia Historic Garden Week in April

ark your calendar for Tues- sign in the master bedroom is repeated in a day, April 24, 2018, as the leaded glass panel in the master bath, in a MGarden Club of Fairfax in wrought iron railing and in the quilt gar- vites you to this year’s His- den. National Register of Historic Places. toric Garden Week Tour in Great Falls, Accessible only by shuttle bus. Jinny and McLean and Vienna. John Beyer, owners. Experience 250 years of history in the once agricultural hills of northern Fairfax MONTVALE WAY, McLEAN Located County. Near the village of Great Falls is the within a 255-acre wooded community of William Gunnell home built in 1750 as a 166 homes in McLean, known as “The Re- hunting lodge for Lord Fairfax. Stroll serve,” this two-level executive style home through a quilt garden designed by the cur- was built in 2001 by one of the premiere rent owner, a well-known quilter, and en- builders in Northern Virginia. An exterior joy carefully tended fruit and vegetable of bisque and gray brick construction is gardens as well as landscaped vistas. framed by stone pillars and enhanced by a In the historic town of Vienna, explore paved circular drive. Mature trees, grasses an 1892 home built on the grounds of the and a massing of bulbs, perennials and Grange Camp and a charming cottage de- shrubs provide four seasons of interest. An signed by a couple as a “sensible home” to armored soldier stands guard, injecting a retire-in- place. whimsical tone. Warm tones of beige and A transitional executive home with a wa- brown and faux-painted walls on the first terfall garden is showcased in nearby Photo by Donna Moulton/Garden Club of Fairfax floor act as a backdrop for the mix of old McLean. Tour headquarters are at Meadow- The 85th Historic Garden Week in Virginia includes tours of homes and and new in art, furniture and family trea- lark Botanical Gardens, 9750 Meadowlark gardens around Virginia, as well as in Great Falls, McLean and Vienna sures. A sunroom is the perfect spot to en- Gardens Court, Vienna, where admission hosted by the Garden Club of Fairfax on Tuesday, April 24, 2018. The joy the backyard koi pond and extensive and refreshments are included with the tour featured historic home was once the Hunting Lodge for Lord Fairfax for landscaping designed and implemented by ticket. whom Fairfax County is named, a privately owned home, beautifully the homeowners. Sandra and Robert Varney, Access to William Gunnell House is only preserved and not often open to the public, dating to the mid 1700s. owners by shuttle bus. Pick-up and drop-off at Great This garden is designed like a quilt because the owner of this historic Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great house is a world renown quilter. [email protected] for tickets. THE GRANGE CAMP, Redwood Drive, Falls. Tickets available at the Library. Ad- www.vagardenweek.org Vienna The exterior front of this Folk Victo- vance Tickets: $40 per person rian home with a Federalist front porch is www.vagardenweek.org or by mail before of volunteers, the generosity of countless William Gunnell III (1750-1820), first essentially unchanged from its 1892 appear- April 17. Send a self-addressed stamped en- home and garden owners, and the nearly known resident of the home and believed ance. Alexander Wedderburn, a successful velope and check made out to The Garden 30,000 visitors from around the world who to have been caretaker for Lord Fairfax, printer and publisher in Alexandria, pur- Club of Fairfax to Marty Whipple, 11508 have enjoyed the tours. purchased it in 1791 and constructed an chased the property and built a summer Yates Ford Road, Fairfax Station, VA 22039. For more information about our Great addition for his large family, making it one home on 42 acres previously owned by the (703) 978-4130 or Falls-McLean- Vienna Tour, and to buy tick- of the area’s grandest manor homes with a post-Civil War Grange movement and used [email protected] for questions. ets online, go to www.vagardenweek.org. 1,500-acre plantation and numerous out- for annual summer fairs for farmers and $50 day of tour. The statewide schedule for HIstoric Garden buildings. One outbuilding, c.1770, survives their families. Every room reflects the As part of the Garden Club of Virginia’s Week is also listed. today. The home was in the Gunnell family homeowners’ love of family and respect for 85th Historic Garden Week, this tour will Tour Headquarters, Facilities and Special until 1913. Twentieth century additions are the history of the home. Original windows be one of thirty statewide tours held April Activity: Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, unobtrusive and compatible with the home’s and interior doors are displayed as pieces 21-28, 2018 featuring nearly 200 of 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna. 18th century Colonial and post-Revolution of art and original wood molding was sal- Virginia’s most picturesque gardens and Tickets, maps and restrooms available on styles. In 1934 a log cabin tavern was moved vaged to become paneling in the powder private homes. Proceeds from this cel- tour day. here from Ruby, Virginia, to become a din- room. A schoolhouse chair and piano are ebrated event fund the restoration and pres- There will be a free King’s Park Flutes ing room with a massive stone fireplace at from Ms. Dyer’s mother’s school in Con- ervation of more than 40 of Virginia’s his- Concert 10 to noon. Tour tickets: $50 per one end. The now 10-acre property includes necticut. Her father, a furniture maker and toric public gardens and landscapes, a re- person available on tour day at Meadow- a large farm pond, Virginia’s fifth oldest refinisher, refurbished the piano, a Singer search fellowship program, and a new part- lark Botanical Gardens and at tour homes. measured hemlock, boxwood lined paths, sewing table and other pieces. The needle- nership with the Virginia State Parks. Iconic flower, fruit, vegetable and herb gardens, point on a living room chair was done by landmarks such as Mount Vernon, the Pa- WILLIAM GUNNELL HOUSE, Innsbruck and grape and rose arbors. The homeowner, Mr. Smith’s grandmother. Smith and Alison vilion Gardens at the University of Virginia Avenue, Great Falls The original home is a a world-renowned quilter and fabric de- Dyer, owners. and the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Li- hall-and-parlor structure built in 1750 on signer, designed the property’s quilt garden, brary have been restored to their original 12,588 acres owned by Thomas, sixth Lord best viewed from a large vine-covered per- CENTER STREET NORTH, Vienna From splendor due to the hard work of thousands Fairfax, for whom the county is named. gola. The star pattern quilt bedspread de- drawing board to completion, the homeowners envisioned a “sensible” home allowing for present-day living and enter- taining within an open floor plan, and the flexibility of converting the current den to Hollin Hills House & Garden Tour an additional first floor bedroom and bath for aging in place for this Custom built, 2011 From Page 13 ware and bar ware-filled boutique on his- Acme Mid-Century + Modern owned modern Cape Cod cottage in historic toric King Street. Victoria Vergason took her by Pierre Paret is a purveyor of vintage Vienna. As the owner of REfind, a Vienna illusion of a much larger home. passions for entertaining at home and col- and modern furniture, artifacts, acces- boutique, the homeowner mixes vintage While visiting, check out Alexandria’s lecting designer vintage glassware and sories, sculpture, and art. Acme provides with fresh accessories throughout this three- mid-century offerings at one-of-a-kind barware and created The Hour in 2009. a broad selection of periods and styles, level cottage. Favorite art pieces include an boutiques located on King Street in Old With two glittering floors “dedicated to all though its specialties include Danish and original oil of a whimsical cow by Greg Town Alexandria, the city’s nationally things cocktail,” The Hour seeks to reinvent Scandinavian Modern, designs by Osterhaus in the kitchen/dining area, and designated historic district. today’s cocktail hour by bringing back mid- Charles and Ray Eames, George Nelson, an original landscape by a local artist in the Step into The Hour and head back to century style for home entertaining but with and pieces in Brazilian rosewood. master bedroom. A screened porch off the the Mad Men era with a vintage cocktail a decidedly modern-day twist. dining room serves as a second living room. Carey and David Williams, owners.

14 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 ❖ 15 News

Pat Herrity, Springfield Linda Smyth, Penny Gross, Dan Storck, John Cook, Cathy Hudgins, Kathy Smith, John Foust, District Providence Mason Mount Vernon Braddock Hunter Mill Sully Dranesville The Conversation Begins: Budgeting Words Board of Supervisors prioritizes compensation for teachers and county employees. By Ken Moore “When we advertise the tax rate, that will creases in that, and everything they do on that increases the tax rate by two and a half The Gazette become the ceiling for what the tax rate can a daily basis. cents. be. It can be lower, it can be the same, but “So it’s a balancing act, and I hope we “So I’ll support the advertisement because pringfield Supervisor Pat Herrity it cannot be higher than” two and a half find that balance. But we need to have a I think the process dictates that there be claimed the dissenting vote. “It cents, said Chairman Sharon Bulova. little flexibility here because we just don’t something on the table. But if the board is Sprobably is not going to surprise Below are excerpts from the March 6 have all the answers at this point.” inclined to pass it as is, it will have to do so the board that I won’t be able to board meeting. The supervisors spoke in the without me. If the board is inclined to do support this,” he said. order presented below: Penny Gross, Mason what a couple of other people have sug- By a 8-1 margin, the Board of Supervi- “I will be supporting the motion. gested this morning, which is look for re- sors advertised the county executive’s bud- Pat Herrity, Springfield District “I am hoping that we are able to back ductions and perhaps go back to that con- get with the proposed two and a half cent “It probably is not going to surprise the down a little bit from the two and a half cept of balancing, then I’m looking forward tax increase. board that I won’t be able to support this. A cents just in looking at how we find some to being part of that discussion and will keep Braddock Supervisor John Cook sup- two and a half cent with [an increase] in savings. an open mind to where we should end up. ported the advertisement but stated he the storm water tax, a five percent poten- “But I will say we have excellent services. But two and a half cents is not where it’s won’t support a budget in May if it remains tial tax increase, 26 percent over five years. We will put our services up against any going to be.” at the advertised tax rate. “I voted for last year’s budget because I other jurisdiction. Fairfax County is known “So I’ll support the advertisement because thought it was reasonable. We made some for its quality of life. It’s known for its Cathy Hudgins, Hunter Mill I think the process dictates that there be difficult decisions last year. schools, we’re the safest community of our “This advertising gives us that opportu- something on the table. But if the board is “I think we need to go back to doing what size in the country, we have parks and li- nity to look at what we really need. inclined to pass it as is, it will have to do so our residents have had to do in a time of braries and lots and lots of services, and “And I think it is difficult having a con- without me,” said Cook. “If the board is in- stagnant wages, and make difficult deci- we invest in the community. versation with the citizens sometimes when clined to do what a couple of other people sions. And we just frankly have not done “And that’s what we do when we estab- we approach it as to what is the cost versus have suggested this morning, which is look that. I’ve put a bunch of them on the table lish a tax rate. Really, we’re investing in the what is the return value. And I really have for reductions and perhaps go back to that and it hasn’t happened and it needs to hap- community on behalf of all of our tax pay- to say that we have done a lot of work to concept of balancing, then I’m looking for- pen. ... ers. ... make certain that we try to be more effi- ward to being part of that discussion and “If you look at wages, they’ve been stag- “We made a promise to our employees cient and more creative in the services that will keep an open mind to where we should nant, we’re literally taxing people out of when we adopted a compensation plan a we provide. end up. But two and a half cents is not Fairfax County. few years ago. We have not been been able “So I think there needs to be a balancing where it’s going to be.” “I appreciated the county executive’s in- to always keep that promise. This year, we that we need to have here. We provided a Jeff McKay, chair of the budget commit- troductory remarks when he said we’ve got must. We absolutely must.” meaningful option [in the meals tax]. And tee, said advertising a lower rate “would to be more nimble and more efficient. We guess what? Our citizens didn’t support it. be taking off the table an opportunity to need to get to that, and I can’t put a poten- Dan Storck, Mount Vernon ... hear from our public about whether our tial five percent additional burden on our “Flexibility is clearly the operative word. “So I think it’s important that if we want public employees from the schools and residents. I won’t be supporting it.” There are a lot of things we still don’t know to talk about how great Fairfax County is, county side should be getting the type of yet including the state budget ... we need to be prepared to figure out how compensation increases to move them into Linda Smyth, Providence “I think it is about competition. We clearly to have the services that that draw people market and to deliver the services that we “Given the unknowns still from the Gen- have competition for the best, the best here and create a more balanced commu- rely on in this county.” eral Assembly in terms of budget or WMATA minds, the best folks, the best leaders, and nity in supporting what it takes to live in In addition to community meetings sched- funding, I think we need to be sure that we we need to pay a competitive wage to do this county. uled around the county, the board slotted have some flexibility in the tax rate and in that. … It’s clearly about commitments. “So we’ll have a chance to have that dis- three days, April 10-12, for public hearings the discussion about our budget. “Finally, I think it is about investment. cussion and maybe the opportunity to move before the full board. “But I will also say ... that I’m seeing in- Investments in our kids, investments in our forward, so my vote is yes.” “We have two months of community con- creased assessments in some of our more teachers, investments in the folks who versation ahead of us, and some members affordable neighborhoods and it’s not the clearly are the keys to our future in this Kathy Smith, Sully of this board have declared how they are first year for some of these neighborhoods. county and in the area. So I will be sup- “I think that we are at the beginning of voting on the budget today or what they This has been a multi-year cycle and that’s porting the tax rate.” the discussion with the public … can’t support,” said McKay. “Two months we a concern because, again, taxes are part of “I’m not at the point of saying what I will have to hear from our community about the affordability of owning a home in Fairfax John Cook, Braddock vote for in this budget. This budget supports what their priorities are. And to me it would County. And I want to be sure that we keep “I’m going to approach this issue much our employees, it supports the school sys- be irresponsible to decide how we are go- that as part of the consideration going for- as I did a couple of years ago. The board tem. We heard from a community group ing to vote on the budget without hearing ward. will recall that two years ago, the county that suggested that we advertise at this from members of our community and how “I hope, again, when we look closely at executive proposed a large tax increase and rate... they feel about it.” the budget that county executive has put the board eventually adopted it and de- “It is a fine balance between looking at The board will officially adopt the FY before us that we will be able to see if there scribed it as a booster shot ... the needs we have in this community and 2019 budget on May 1. are savings that we can go back and find “Here we are as Yogi Berra would say, ‘It’s the services we want to provide and how If the Board of Supervisors were to adopt and apply that to help some of our residents deja vu all over again,’ with another large we do that. So I’m supportive of advertis- the full two and a half cent tax rate increase, out. increase described as a need to jump up and ing this tax rate.” it would amount to an additional $268 on “Residents are … seeing increases in their then next year we will stay flat. ... the average homeowner’s annual tax bill. health insurance, in fact considerable in- “I can not and I will not support a budget See The Conversation, Page 21 16 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment

Submit entertainment announcements Call 888-824-2541 or visit at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- vabronze.org/. endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. SUNDAY-SATURDAY/MARCH 18-31 ONGOING Fairfax County Parks. Egg-citing Photo-documentary Study. Through activities are breaking out at parks March 25, arious times at Theatre throughout Fairfax County in March. Two, Gunston Arts Center, 2700 S. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Lang St., Arlington. Select photos park-news/2018/psa055. from artist/photographer Nina On Sunday, March 18 – At Hidden Tisara’s photo-documentary study of Pond Nature Center, children age worship in Alexandria’s 3 to 12 can create a spring mobile of predominantly African American Photos (left to right): favorite pond animals from plastic churches for Avant Bard’s production eggs. All materials will be provided. of the “Gospel at Colonus.” An Sakura Cashmere Cardigan $6 per child. Hidden Oaks Nature afterchat is scheduled for Saturday, by Tamara Embrey; Enamel Center is hosting a Woodland March 17, 3 p.m. Pendant by Nan Lopata; Wildlife Egg Hunt for children age 3- March150. Through March 25, gallery 8. Meet costumed woodland hours at Torpedo Factory Art Center’s Cherry Blossoms by characters along a trail, collect eggs Target Gallery, 105 N. Union St. Jamaliah Morais with non-candy treats and discover Target Gallery’s popular annual how different animals raise their exhibition and art sale, March150, young. $8 per child. returns to the Torpedo Factory Art Hidden Oaks Nature Center is Center for the 8th year. This yearly running a Dinosaur Egg Hunt on all-media exhibition features nearly Cherry Blossom Week March 25, 29, 30, 31 and April 1. 200 works created by artists local to The Torpedo Factory Artists’ Association (TFAA) is honoring the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival with their own Enjoy a dinosaur-themed program Alexandria and the greater D.C. Cherry Blossom Week. With a schedule of events that includes artist demonstrations, private tours, and in-studio specials, and outdoor egg hunt while visiting region. The only requirement to be cherry blossom fun blooms at the Torpedo Factory Art Center. More than 50 of the 82 working artist studios at the Torpedo Dinoland in Nature Playce. The on view in the exhibition is that Factory Art Center will have cherry blossom-inspired art on display or for sale, and interactive events will occur all week. program is for children age 2-8. $8 artists needed to use the gallery- The Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Complete details of the TFAA’s Cherry Blossom Week (March 23-31), in- per child. supplied 10” x 10” panel. All work in cluding studio maps, can be found at torpedofactoryartists.com/cherry. On Saturday, March 31, Burke Lake the show is priced at $150. Visit Free artist studio tours will begin at 1 p.m. on March 24, 25, 26, and 31. Interested visitors should meet on the first floor Park is hosting a day of fun called torpedofactory.org/event/march150- of the Torpedo Factory at the Information Desk. Artist demonstrations will begin at 2 p.m. on the following dates: Saturday, Baskets and Bunnies. There will be 8th-annual-special-exhibition-art- March 24 - Jennifer Brewer Stone, Resin & Painting, Studio 227 ❖ Sunday, March 25 - Tracie Griffith Tso, Ceramics & Chi- egg hunts, carousel and train rides, crafts and games. $12 per person in sale/. nese Brush, Studio 22 ❖ Monday, March 26 - Jamaliah Morais, Asian Brush Painting, Studio 25 ❖ Saturday, March 31 - Alison advance; $16 the day of the event. Woodlawn Needlework Show and Sigethy, Glass, Studio 307 Sale. Through March 31, 10 a.m.-4 Clemyjontri Park is offering an p.m. (closed Tuesdays) at Woodlawn Easter Egg Hunt, crafts and photo and Pope-Leighey House, 9000 of benevolence in the United States. making. Register for any of the at Lincolnia Senior Center, 4710 ops with the Easter Bunny for Richmond Highway. The 55th annual She will share experiences of specific series. Call 703-768-2525 or visit North Chambliss St. The Northern children age one to nine. $7 per Needlework show and sale at nurses in World War I gleaned from www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Virginia Country-Western Dance child. Add a carousel ride for $2. Woodlawn Estate, the historic home journals and diaries, including two historic-huntley. Association will hold a dance. There’s also an Egg Hunt that day at of Nelly Custis, America’s foremost from Virginia. $10 per person. Friendship Firehouse Museum Lessons, 6-7 p.m. Open dancing, 7- Nottoway Park. Register at the needleworker. Exhibits, vendors, Reservations recommended. Tickets Tour. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Friendship 9:30 p.m. A DJ provides music. picnic shelter for egg hunts for workshops, house tours, and more at shop.alexandria.gov. Firehouse, 107 S. Alfred St. The Couples and singles of all ages children age 1-9. Registration begins for the whole family. Adults $15, k- Friendship Fire Company, established welcome. Admission for NVCWDA at 9:30 a.m. Schedule: ages 1-2, 12 $6, 5 and under free. Call 703- in 1774, was the first fire company in members $10; non-members $12; 10:30 a.m.; ages 3-4, 11 a.m.; ages 5- 570-6903 or visit THURSDAY-SATURDAY/MARCH 15-17 Alexandria. Join an in-depth guided children under 18 accompanied by a 6, 11:30 a.m.; ages 7-9, 12 p.m. $10 www.woodlawnpopeleighey.org/ “Must Love Music” and “WXYZ.” tour and learn about the Friendship paying adult $5. Smoke-free, alcohol- per child, registration 9:30-11:45 annualneedleworkshow/. Thursday-Friday, 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Fire Company’s firefighting free. BYO refreshments. Visit a.m. $10 per child – cash only at “Finishing Flourishes.” Through Saturday, 2:30-4:30 p.m. at Richard procedures and equipment, as well as www.nvcwda.org. registration. March 31, gallery hours at the Kauffman Auditorium, The Lee the different roles the organization SSA 2018 Golden Anniversary Torpedo Factory Art Center’s Scope Center, 1108 Jefferson St. Original played in serving the community. The Gala. 6-10 p.m. at Westin MONDAY/MARCH 19 Gallery, 105 North Union Street, musicals starring actors with Down docent-led tour is for ages 10 and Alexandria, 400 Courthouse Square. ground floor Studio 19. Artists have a syndrome and autism. In “Must Love older. $5 for adults; $4 ages 10-17. Join in what promises to be a Garden Buds. 10 a.m.-11 a.m at Green ball with “Finishing Flourishes,” as Music” Love and music are the only Reservations are required, space is memorable evening honoring the Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring they put forth their finest, and way to escape the spirits on a limited. Purchase tickets at legacy of those who have helped Road. Meet in the Children’s elevating detailing as the high-point mysterious island. Then, the big city shop.alexandriava.gov or 703-746- build Senior Services of Alexandria, Discovery Garden. Children will in design. Perfect punctuation on a newsroom at “WXYZ” may be too 3891. including founders, former honorees enjoy different sensory materials N. pot makes tops twerk or handles much for rookie reporter from the Family Fun: St. Paddy’s Peas and and former Board members. Visit the garden, rain or shine. Dress for twirl with grace. Edges flute and country. Visit www.art-stream.org/ Potatoes. 1-2 p.m. at Green Spring seniorservicesalex.org for raffle prize the weather and explore. 2-3 years, ruffle and feature lacy, racy cut outs. see-a-show. Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road. information. Tickets are still available $5 per child. Register online at Call Scope Gallery at 703-548-6288 St. Patrick’s Day is the traditional day at gala or call the office at 703-836- www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ or visit www.scopegallery.org. to plant potatoes. Learn the origins of 4414, ext. 110. parktakes using code 290 102 8621 “Drone Zone.” Through March 31, FRIDAY/MARCH 16 this staple and its importance to or call 703-642-5173. gallery hours in the Art League Opening Reception: Kevin Ireland. Listen to tales of Locals’ Alley Saturdays. 12:30-2:30 Gallery, Torpedo Factory Art Center, Fitzgerald. 6:30-9 p.m. at Principle leprechauns, sample spuds, and plant SUNDAY/MARCH 18 p.m. at The Old Town Shop, 105 105 North Union St., Studio 21. Gallery, 208 King St. Principle peas and potatoes in our garden. Ides of Bark. 1-4 p.m. at Grist Mill South Union St. Meet the makers of Drones appeared in Beverly Ryan’s Gallery will feature landscape painter Ages 5-adult, $7 per person. Register Park, 4710 Mt. Vernon Memorial local goods, featuring Van Napier artwork in 2015, inspired by Kevin Fitzgerald in his Annual Solo parent and child online at Highway. Supervisor Dan Storck Farms Jams & Jelly tastings. Call questions about their use in warfare. Exhibition. This year, the exhibition www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ invites all dogs and their companions 703-684-4682 or visit Ryan explores questions related to has been paired down to 20 works, parktakes using code 290 101 3001 to join him for an afternoon of play www.TheOldTownShop.com. this topic in her multi-media exhibit, allowing each of the paintings space or call 703-642-5173. and learning at the 3rd Ides of Bark “Drone Zone.” Visit to breathe, increasing the impact of Downton Fashion. 1-3:30 p.m. at at Dog Festival. The event is free and TUESDAY/MARCH 20 www.theartleague.org or call 703- the work. Free and open to the Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green open to the public, with games, gift 683-1780. public. Visit Spring Road. Artist Caroline baskets, prizes, food trucks and fun Creating Family History. 1-3 p.m. at www.principlegallery.com. Hottenstein showcases two custom- for the whole family. Visit Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 made dresses that span the brief time www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ Shenandoah Road. Board-certified THURSDAY/MARCH 15 period – 1912 to 1925 – portrayed in mountvernon/ides-bark. genealogist Tom Jones will provide Meet the Legends Reception. 6 p.m. FRIDAY-SATURDAY/MARCH 16-17 the TV show Downton Abbey. One is Amazing Plants for Shade. 1:30- insights into creating a family history at Center for Design, Media and the “The Addams Family.” Friday- Titanic-era, one a 1920s Flapper 2:30 p.m. at Green Spring Gardens, that future generations will cherish. Arts, 3301 Netherton Drive in Saturday, 7:30-10 p.m. in the design. For adults. Reservations 4603 Green Spring Road. Learn His talk is called “Creating a Family Alexandria, on the NOVA Community Garwood Whaley Auditorium, Bishop required, $42/person (program + about shade and about the History of Lasting Value.” Free. Call College Alexandria Campus. Ireton High School, 201 Cambridge tea); $18 (program only). Programs incredible, diverse selection of plants 703-768-4101 or visit Sponsored by Living Legends of Road. The Bishop Ireton Drama are by reservation only. Call 703- that have adapted to the limitations, www.mvgenealogy.org. Alexandria, the event introduces the Department presents “The Addams 941-7987, TTY 703-324-3988. as well as advantages, of lower light Mount Vernon Pyramid Choral 2018 Living Legend honorees. Visit Family.” From costuming to Author Talk: Kimberly McLemore. conditions. $10/person. Register Concert. 7 p.m. at Mount Vernon alexandrialegends.org/. choreography, more than 60 Ireton 3 p.m. at Kate Waller Barrett Branch online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ High School, 8515 Old Mount World War I Lecture Series. 7 p.m. students have contributed to this Library, 717 Queen St. Kimberly parks/parktakes using code 290 185 Vernon Road. Mount Vernon High at The Lyceum, Alexandria’s History production. Visit McLemore’s newest book is a memoir 6501 or call 703-642-5173. School will host the Mount Vernon Museum, 201 South Washington St. www.bishopireton.org or call 703- sharing her experience as a survivor Virginia Bronze March Handbell Pyramid choral concert for the 15th Join The Lyceum for Women’s 751-7606. of domestic abuse. Kimberly Concert. 4-5:30 p.m. at George year. Choristers from Fort Belvoir, History Month and three lectures McLemore is a podcast host and Washington Masonic National Riverside, Washington Mill, about women’s contributions to the founder and CEO of the Women’s Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive. Woodlawn, and Woodley Hills World War I war effort. “‘Doing Our SATURDAY/MARCH 17 Small Business Initiative. Books will Celebrate the glories of springtime elementary schools will join with the Bit’ (While Having a Bit of Fun): Art of the Book - Calligraphy. 10-11 be available for sale and signing after and throwback to an era of sock hops Whitman Wild Cat singers and the American Nurses in World War I,” by a.m. at Historic Huntley, 6918 the talk. Free. Contact and poodle skirts with a potpourri of Mount Vernon Melodious Majors to Marian Moser Jones, a social Harrison Lane. Historic Huntley is [email protected] or tunes including Song of the Flowers, perform songs celebrating peace. historian and ethicist of public health offering three classes this winter that visit alexlibraryva.org. What a Wonderful World, Crocodile Admission is free. Visit who explores the institutionalization delve into different aspects of book Country-Western Dance. 6-9:30 p.m. Rock and Fly Me to the Moon. $10. mountvernonhs.fcps.edu. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 ❖ 17 Entertainment

Eggstravaganza This annual family-friendly event is one of the most EGGciting spring events in the Alexandria/ Arlington area. This year’s event features entertainment by the Rainbow Rock Band, Groovy Nate, and Uncle Devin. The day also fea- tures plenty of food, activities, and games for the whole family. Mul- tiple egg hunts for children under 11 with a special area for those 3 and under. Free. Saturday, March 24, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Four Mile Conservatory Center, 4109 Mt. Vernon Ave. For more, visit www.arlandriaeggstravaganza.com.

2018 Arlandria Eggstravaganza set for Saturday, March 24.

Washington DC, 1917-1920,” by www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Anna Kiefer. In 1917, the Women’s parktakes using code 290 182 2701 TUESDAY-SUNDAY/MARCH 20-25 Land Army of America began or call 703-642-5173. Spring Book Sale. At Charles E. recruiting women who would work March150 Art Party. 7-10 p.m. at at Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke the land while America’s farmers Torpedo Factory Art Center’s Target St. The Friends of the Beatley Central served in the Great War. $10 per Gallery, 105 N. Union St. Target Library will kick off their Spring Book person. Reservations recommended. Gallery is partnering with the Factory Sale with a Members’ Preview on Tickets at shop.alexandria.gov. Society, an independent young- Tuesday, March 20, 4-8:30 p.m. ($15 Vegetable Gardening Part 3. 7-8:30 patrons group that supports the memberships available at the door). pm, Burke Library, 4701 Seminary Torpedo Factory, for the March150 The sale continues Wednesday, Road. Manage and Maintain Your Art Party. Guests have an opportunity March 21, 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Vegetable Garden. Discover simple, to mingle with other art enthusiasts Thursday, March 22, 10 a.m.-8:30 earth-friendly and smart gardening and meet many of the artists who p.m.; Friday, March 23, 10 a.m.-5:30 practices, like crop rotation and have artwork on view in the show. p.m.; Saturday, March 24, 10 a.m.- intercropping, to attract pollinators All art is priced at $100 exclusively 4:30 p.m.; and Sunday, March 25, 1- and other beneficial insects and to during the Party. Tickets are $25 in 4:30 p.m. $3 or less, unless control common garden pests. Learn advance; $30 at the door. Visit specifically marked: hardbacks, to identify diseases and how to torpedofactory.org/event/march150- paperbacks, children’s books and manage them. Also pick up tips on 8th-annual-special-exhibition-art- media items. All genres. $1 Day on space-saving techniques for small sale/. Sunday. Call 703-746-1702 or visit gardens. Free. Advance registration Musical Offering: Via Crucis (The www.beatleyfriends.org. requested at mgnv.org. Questions, Way of the Cross). 7:30 p.m. at telephone 703-228-6414 or Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, [email protected]. 1427 W. Braddock Road. The 14 WEDNESDAY/MARCH 21 Lost Towns of Fairfax County - Stations of the Cross will be prayed “Livable Communities for all Mount Vernon Region. 7:30-9 in a musical setting for choir and Ages.” 9:30 a.m.-noon at Beth El p.m. at Mount Vernon Government organ by Franz Liszt. The Blessed Hebrew Congregation, 3830 Center, 2511 Parkers Lane. Mount Sacrament Adult Choir will sing with Seminary Road. SSA is sponsoring a Vernon Regional Historical Society organist Quinn Moss. Email listening session for Alexandria’s presents Fairfax County historians [email protected] or seniors. Representatives of Heather Bollinger and Jeff Clark call 703-998-6100, ext. 103. Alexandria’s Commission on Aging speaking about some of Fairfax will talk about the latest progress for County’s lost towns and communities making Alexandria a livable — vibrant areas which featured FRIDAY-SATURDAY/MARCH 23-31 community for all ages. They want schools, churches, shops, and civic “Cherry Blossom Week.” Daily, 10 to hear from seniors about what is centers. This talk will focus on a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursdays until 9 p.m. most important to remain active and communities in the Mount Vernon at The Torpedo Factory Art Center, independent. Visit area, such as Colchester, Accotink, 105 N. Union St. The Torpedo seniorservicesalex.org. and both the white and African- Factory Artists’ Association (TFAA) is American communities of Woodlawn. honoring the annual National Cherry Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/circuit/ Blossom Festival with their own WEDNESDAY-SATURDAY/MARCH 21-24 lost-towns-fairfax-county-mount- Cherry Blossom Week. With a Used Book and Art Sale. Thursday, vernon-region. schedule of events that includes artist 1-5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 demonstrations, private tours, and in- a.m.-3 p.m. at the Mount Vernon studio specials, cherry blossom fun Unitarian Church, 1909 Windmill THURSDAY-SATURDAY/MARCH 22-24 blooms at the Torpedo Factory Art Lane. Used book and art sale fills two “Must Love Music” and “WXYZ.” Center. More than 50 of the 82 buildings at the Mount Vernon Thursday-Friday, 7:30-9:30 p.m.; working artist studios at the Torpedo Unitarian Church. Gently used art, Saturday, 2:30-4:30 p.m. at Richard Factory Art Center will have cherry children’s books, rare/old books and Kauffman Auditorium, The Lee blossom-inspired art on display or for individually priced books will be in Center, 1108 Jefferson St. Original sale, and interactive events will occur the church building. Saturday is half musicals starring actors with Down all week. Complete details of the price in the church and $5 a bag in syndrome and autism. In “Must Love TFAA’s Cherry Blossom Week, the mansion. Visit mvuc.org. Music” Love and music are the only including studio maps, can be found way to escape the spirits on a at torpedofactoryartists.com/cherry. mysterious island. Then, the big city THURSDAY/MARCH 22 newsroom at “WXYZ” may be too Local Author Thursday. 5-7 p.m. at much for rookie reporter from the SATURDAY/MARCH 24 The Old Town Shop, 105 South country. Visit www.art-stream.org/ World Day of Puppetry. 9 a.m.-3 Union St. Book signing by John see-a-show. p.m. at at the Durant Arts Center, Adam Wasowicz, “Daingerfield 1605 Cameron St. The National Island.” Light refreshments. Call 703- Capital Puppetry Guild and the Office 684-4682 or visit FRIDAY/MARCH 23 of the Arts will present the 2nd www.TheOldTownShop.com. Garden Talk: Vegetable & Herb Annual “Celebrate the World Day of World War I Lecture Series. 7 p.m. Gardens. 2-3 p.m. at Green Spring Puppetry” with family-oriented at The Lyceum, Alexandria’s History Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road. puppet performances, hands-on Museum, 201 South Washington St. There is nothing more delectable workshops, exhibits and sales tables. Join The Lyceum for Women’s than a homegrown tomato or fresh Nine puppetry performances will History Month and three lectures herbs and now is the best time. feature Bob Brown Puppets, about women’s contributions to the Master Gardeners demonstrate how Dinorock, Silly Goose and Val, World War I war effort. “Sowing the to plan, plant and harvest a fabulous Goodlife Theater, and more. $5. Visit Seeds of Victory: The Women’s Land vegetable and herb garden. Adults. bit.ly/2FKcqph. Army of America in Virginia and $10/person. Register online at Japanese Garden Design. 9:30-11 18 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment

a.m. at Green Spring Gardens, 4603 displays and activities. The program door (open at 7 p.m.). Visit Green Spring Road. Japanese garden features a quilting demonstration, www.alexandriahistorical.org/. design is an art form thousands of interpreters portraying the role of years in the making. Stone, gravel, women in camp, on the battlefield Author Event: water, bridges, paths and plants all and engaged in soldier relief efforts, FRIDAY/MARCH 30-SUNDAY/APRIL 1 hold significance. Horticulturalist and displays of period clothing and Easter Egg Hunt. Friday, 3 p.m.; Bevan Shimizu will teach you the accessories. Free. Call 703-746-4848 John Wasowicz Saturday, 10:30 a.m., 12:30 and 2:30 essentials in creating a Japanese style or visit alexandriava.gov. Introducing Elmo Katz, Esq., an attor- p.m.; Sunday, 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. at garden. Adults. $22/person. Register ney who is to Alexandria what Sherlock Lee-Fendall House Museum, 614 online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ Holmes is to London: a sharp-witted Oronoco St. Activities include games, parks/parktakes using code 290 285 SUNDAY/MARCH 25 problem solver engrossed in solving a crafts, refreshments, and photos with 7201 or call 703-642-5173. Women’s History Month at Ivy Hill complicated criminal case. Meet Mo the Easter Bunny. Every participating “Beyond the Battlefield.” 10 a.m. Cemetery. 3 p.m. at Ivy Hill Katz in his law office at fictitious 771A child will receive an Easter egg. $12 outside the Lee-Fendall House, 614 Cemetery, 2823 King St. Authors H.L. Duchess Street in Old Town as he solves children, $5 adults. Call 703-548- Oronoco St. The Lee-Fendall House Brooks, and Dea Schofield conduct a mysterious murder that occurs on 1789 or visit will offer “Beyond the Battlefield,” a readings and a book signing. They Daingerfield Island, below Reagan Na- www.leefendallhouse.org. guided walking tour of Civil War sites will read from their new books, amid tional Airport. Author John Wasowicz in Historic Old Town. The tour will a haunting atmosphere in the vault. will be signing copies Thursday, March SATURDAY/MARCH 31 last approximately two hours and This reading event is not 22, 4-7 p.m. at The Old Town Shop, 105 cover a route of 1.75 miles. recommended for children under 15. South Union St. Locals’ Alley Saturdays. 12:30-2:30 Participants re encouraged to wear Space is limited, R.S.V.P. at 301-395- p.m. at The Old Town Shop, 105 comfortable shoes. Advance tickets 9541 or 703-549- 7413 ext.1112 or South Union St. Meet the makers of are $15 through the museum’s email [email protected]. local goods, featuring Dimitri Olive website, or $20 the day. Space is Live Music: Magpie. 7 p.m. at the trudged through the wilderness and residents and $210 for out-of-county Oil & Vinegar tastings. Call 703-684- limited. Visit George Washington Masonic fought at the disastrous battle on the campers. Registration is at 4682 or visit www.leefendallhouse.org, or call Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive. Since Monogahela. Admission is free, go.usa.gov/xneTw. www.TheOldTownShop.com. 703-548-1789. 1973, Terry Leonino and Greg donations are welcome. Visit Huntley Meadows Park is located at A Treasury of Tea. 1-3 p.m. at Green Arlandria Eggstravaganza. 11 a.m.- Artzner have brought their unique www.novaparks.com or call 703-549- 3701 Lockheed Blvd. Call the park at Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring 2 p.m. at Four Mile Conservatory sound and remarkable versatility to 2997. 703-768-2525 or visit Road. Discover myths and facts Center, 4109 Mt. Vernon Ave. This audiences everywhere, featuring www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ behind the history of tea and the annual family-friendly event is one of traditional and vintage Americana to huntley-meadows-park. many tea types. Hear about social the most EGGciting spring events in contemporary and stirring original MONDAY-FRIDAY/MARCH 26-31 impacts of tea, changing fashions of the Alexandria/Arlington area. This compositions. Tickets are $18 in Spring Break Camps at Huntley WEDNESDAY/MARCH 28 the tea table, and teatime traditions year’s event features entertainment advance at www.focusmusic.org/buy- Meadows Park. Elementary school and etiquette, and learn how to brew by the Rainbow Rock Band, Groovy tickets and for members, $20 at the William Ramsay and Business in teas to perfection. Adults. age children can discover what life 18-Century Alexandria. 7:30 p.m. Nate, and Uncle Devin. The day also door. was like for the first people to use Reservations required: $32/person features plenty of food, activities, at The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington (program + tea), $12 (program what is now Huntley Meadows Park. St. The Alexandria Historical Society and games for the whole family. Program attendees will need to bring only). Call (703) 941-7987, TTY 703- Multiple egg hunts for children under MONDAY/MARCH 26 and the Office of Historic Alexandria 324-3988. a snack, lunch and drink. present Dr. Nancy Davis, curator 11 with a special area for those 3 and Common Sailors and the ❖ The Pioneer Survival Camp is for Live Music: Cleve Francis. 7:30-10 under. Free. Visit Braddock Expedition. 7 p.m. at emeritus at the National Museum of p.m. at The Birchmere, 3701 Mount 6-12-year-olds. Camp hours are 9 American History, Smithsonian www.arlandriaeggstravaganza.com. The Lyceum, 121 N. Fairfax St. In a.m.-4 p.m. $295 per child for county Vernon Ave. An evening of eclectic Women’s Civil War Day. 11 a.m.-3 this lecture, Kyle Dalton will explore Institution, discussing Alexandria music with Cleve Francis and his residents and $310 for out-of-county merchant William Ramsay and his p.m. at Fort Ward Museum, 4301 W. the lives and experiences of common campers. Register online at large band performing their own Braddock Road. Civil War reenactors sailors in the eighteenth century 1753-1756 ledger books. $5 for non- brand of country, folk, blues, light go.usa.gov/xneTd. members, and free to members of the will interpret the dress, skills and through the lens of the Braddock ❖ Animal Babies in Spring is for 4- rock and jazz. $35 plus fees. Email contributions of women during the Expedition. A little known Alexandria Historical Society. [email protected] or visit 6-year-olds. Camp hours are 9 a.m.- Memberships can be purchased at the Civil War period with on-going detachment of 33 Royal Navy sailors noon. $195 per child for county www.clevefrancis.com.

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 4/30/18. 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 ❖ March 15-21, 2018 ❖ 19 News

Photos by Steve Hibbard/The Gazette

From left: Dr. Tangy Millard, Dr. Scott Brabrand, Judy Harbeck, Stan Koussis, Joel Bernstein, and Karen Corbett Sanders at the Mount Vernon Lee Chamber of Commerce meeting. Brabrand Addresses Chamber

From Page 1

ment is going up. We’re trying to close the Excel- lence Gap. We’re seeing good progress in that. We’re seeing more underprivileged and minority students availing themselves in opportunities in honors and AP classes.” Terrell, who oversees 2,100 students at Mount Vernon High School, added: “We are an International Baccalaureate School, which means our students are judged by an international standard and we’re very proud of that. We are a comprehensive high school; we have something for every student who comes in our doors,” he said. “We sent two kids to Harvard last year and everything in between that as well as getting students ready for careers. I know that’s very important to the people here.” He added: “We partner with West Potomac High School and the Academies so students leave with licenses and certifications and real-world applica- Fairfax County Schools Superintendent tions that they can use right after graduation, so Scott Brabrand with Matt Ragone, princi- we’re very proud of that.” pal of South County High School.

From left: Scott Stroh, chairman of the Mount Vernon Lee Chamber; Scott Brabrand, superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools; Sonja Caison, chamber president; Anthony Terrell, principal Mount Vernon High School; and Matt Ragone, principal South County High School. 20 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News The Conversation Begins From Page 16 “To me it would be irresponsible to decide how we John Foust, Dranesville are going to vote on the budget without hearing from “I too will be supporting advertisement of the tax members of our community and how they feel about rate. I think it is important to provide the flexibility it. that two and a half cents increase provides. Equally important that we spend a lot of time over the next Sharon Bulova, Chairman two months looking at how we can bring that down. “This is a budget that does address the board’s high- I know that I am absolutely committed to doing that. est priorities, Diversion First, addressing the opioid ... crisis, gang prevention, early childhood education, “We need to address the fact that our teachers are funding compensation for our teachers as well as our below the market and we are losing them. county employees ... “We need to address the fact that over the last “I did also want to just say something for people several years we have not been consistent and have who believe that people are fleeing Fairfax County to not fulfilled the obligations and commitments that other parts of the region. Since 2015, Fairfax County’s we have made to our own county employees. population has actually increased by 26,700, which “Those two things are driving this budget. Those is actually the size or a little bit more than the size or two priorities, and I think that regardless of what the population of the City of Fairfax. So we’ve been we do the next two months, we have to commit our- growing.” selves to funding those two things. Other than those two things, everything else is on the table. I will be STAY INVOLVED: COUNTY BUDGET MEETINGS very surprised if we’re not able bring that tax rate ❖ Wednesday, March 14, 7 p.m., Providence Community increase down.” Budget Meeting, Providence Community Center, First Floor Multipurpose Room, 3001 Vaden Drive, Fairfax ❖ Wednesday, March 14, 7:30pm, Braddock District Council Jeff McKay, Lee, Budget Chair Annual Budget Meeting, Braddock Hall, 9002 Burke Lake “I appreciate everyone’s comments. Clearly, we are Road, Burke ❖ Thursday, March 15, 7 p.m., Mason District Budget Town going to work to generate savings but as many have Meeting, Mason District Governmental Center, Main spoken, you would be cutting off conversation if we Community Room, 6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale didn’t advertise this tax rate. ❖ Monday, March 19, 7 p.m., Mount Vernon District Budget Town Hall, Whitman Middle School, Lecture Hall, 2500 “The lion’s share of all new revenue goes to … Parkers Lane, Alexandria employee pay and teacher pay. And there is no way ❖ Wednesday, March 21, 7 p.m., Lee District Budget Town Hall you could come up with enough cuts in this budget Meeting, Franconia Governmental Center Community Room, 6121 Franconia Road, Alexandria and do the type of pay increases that our employees ❖ Thursday, March 22, 7 p.m., Springfield District Budget and teachers deserve. The numbers just don’t work. Town Hall Meeting, Springfield Governmental Center, “Every member of the board has the opportunity Community Room, 6140 Rolling Road, Springfield ❖ April 10-12, Board of Supervisors Public Hearings on FY to bring forward a package of cuts that balances the 2019 Budget and FY 2019-2023 Capital Improvement Plan. budget to the tax rate that they so desire. I look for- See www.fairfaxcounty.gov/bosclerk/speakers-form to sign ward to having that conversation as we move for- up. ward. ... More at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/budget Adjourning without a State Budget

From Page 10 in the 2017 election and to consider the implemen- directed to WMATA. I expect Governor Northam will tation of no-excuse absentee voting. Five of my bills amend the bill to preserve the $154 million while were referred to this interim committee including using less funding directly from NVTA. This would SB602, which would provide for “no-excuse absen- free up money for additional transportation projects. tee voting.” Seven of my bills passed the General Assembly and Outright hostility from Republicans toward all gun await Governor Northam’s consideration. SB920 violence prevention efforts resulted in a disappoint- addressed the struggle experienced by the Tarantino ing year. Over 60 gun violence prevention measures family of Alexandria and will reduce the onerous were put forward and defeated, including my bills 10-year waiting period for them to adopt a child due to ban bump stocks (SB1), institute universal back- to an eight-year-old drug possession conviction — ground checks (SB5), and prohibit carrying firearms regardless of Mr. Tarantino’s record of honorable while under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs service in the military and his wife’s years of service (SB2). Despite the current legislative stalemate, I am with local nonprofits. Congressman Donald Beyer inspired by the movement taking shape in the wake brought to my attention that predatory teachers who of the terrible tragedy in Parkland, Florida. Young sexually abuse students have been recommended people across the country are taking action to de- away to another school district by fellow employees mand gun sense reforms, and I urge like-minded to avoid scandal and lawsuits. SB605 will prohibit supporters to join me in standing with them. public school employees from “passing the trash.” On Wednesday, April 18 we will reconvene for our SB918 will repeal a provision of the Code of Vir- one day “veto” session, when the General Assembly ginia authorizing the revocation of professional li- is to consider Governor Northam’s amendments and censes from people who fall behind on their student vetoes. loans. Student loan debt affects 44 million people Now that session is over, I’m reporting to constitu- in the United States, and I am thankful that Del- ent groups and doing my homework for 2019. If your egates Eileen Filler-Corn (D-Fairfax) and Schuyler group wishes to request a legislative update, email VanValkenburg (D-Henrico) led the House effort to my office at [email protected]. Also, address this issue. please consider following me on Twitter An interim committee will be established to con- (@AdamEbbin) and Facebook. sider a large volume of legislation regarding elec- It is my continued honor to serve the people of the tion reform in the wake of several incidents arising 30th District. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 ❖ 21 “Introspections” News Gun Violence By KENNETH B. LOURIE From Page 5 According to my oncologist, it’s time, way ❖ Background checks for all commercial past time in fact (not so much ‘fact,’ more like gun sales, including internet sales and gun his experiences with other cancer patients) that I make more significant changes in my shows cancer treatment than I have diagnosis to ❖ An assault weapons and high capacity date. What he means, specifically – and what magazine ban we regularly discuss – is extending the interval ❖ Extreme Risk Protective Order (ERPO) of my CT Scan, which currently occurs every three months. “red flag” laws to keep guns out of the hands Not so much to minimize the radiation of people intent on harming themselves or exposure, more so due to my continuing sur- others. vival. No one’s ready to characterize me as “These three policy objectives will help “N.E.D.,” (no evidence of disease), but neither keep dangerous weapons out of the hands does it appear, based on the last five years – since I was hospitalized and began my alimta of people who should not have them,” Leinz infusions, that my tumors are growing and/or said. “Congress must pass these laws to keep moving; at least not as indicated with any our children safe.” clinical significance. Turning to state legislation, state Sen. Nevertheless, the prospect of waiting longer to find out if any tumor action has Barbara Favola (D-31) and Del. Paul Krizek occurred is unsettling. Currently, given that I (D-44) were on hand to describe another am generally asymptomatic, the primary way disappointing year in Richmond for support- that I learn if there’s been “progression,” is by ers of common sense gun legislation. Nev- the computerized tomography of my lungs/upper torso. Rarely have symptoms ertheless, the two legislators were united manifested themselves otherwise. And when in their one central message for the audi- they have, they’ve as often indicated nothing ence: as something – and vice versa; meaning, “Stay involved,” said Krizek. sometimes no symptoms still showed growth. “We can’t give up,” said Favola. So it’s confusing, counter intuitive and contra- indicated, and I’m stuck in the middle. For Father John Baker, Senior Pastor at While maintaining this quarterly scan St Aidan’s, the struggle to enact sane, sen- schedule, I have extended the interval sible gun laws is a moral one, and it is time between infusions however: from every three — way past time — for the church to step weeks originally to every six weeks now. Which means I’ve reduced the amount of up and join the fight. chemotherapy I receive by 50 percent per “We worry about being political, and we quarter. Still the scans have showed “stable.” worry about whom we might offend, and Given that I’m starting my 10th year post diag- we soften our tone and seek conciliatory nosis, perhaps it’s time to scan less and live more? words with those who see this issue from Our concern has been that if the CT Scan another angle,” he said. “And we end up continues to be the first real indica- doing nothing. Again.” tor/confirmation that tumor growth has occurred – and if so, presumably differ- Letters ent/more aggressive/life-sustaining tactics would need to be employed (immunotherapy From Page 8 comes to print, which I have not yet utilized), Education Association and the Virginia why wait through the fourth month to find Federation of Teachers and an award from out? Maybe that month’s-long delay in scan- ning would matter in possibly nipping my the Fairfax Education Association. This is, tumor growth in the bud? apparently, a bad thing in Mr. Spiegel’s mind My oncologist’s thinking is that so little and he calls on voters to hold Senator change has occurred during the past five years Surovell accountable in the next election. that perhaps it’s reasonable to take advantage of my amazing good fortune and extend the Thank you for this information Mr. interval? Spiegel. Many of Senator Surovell’s con- Moreover, with respect to my quality of stituents and I are more likely to vote for life, reducing the weeks of stress we experi- him now. ence leading up to the scan, and of course the stress the week after, waiting for results, would enhance our lives; and eliminating that stress Carol Cooke and improving the quality of our lives has Alexandria always been an interest/concern of my oncologist. And I appreciate his concern for our over- all well being; and I would like to have less cancer-related impact on my life but, yes, there’s always a ‘but.’ If I extend the scan interval, I might worry about what’s happen- Write ing in my lungs during the month after I would The Gazette welcomes views on any have already been scanned? What if? I mean, public issue. it’s not as if we can’t go back in time, sort of. The deadline for all material is noon We can always restart, re-interval, re-scan, re- Friday. Letters must be signed. Include everything; so I’ve been reassured. Why not home address and home and business re-engage more with life and rearrange less numbers. Letters are routinely edited for because of cancer? libel, grammar, good taste and factual Maybe I’ve survived nine-plus years with a errors. terminal form of cancer because I’m meant Send to: to? Why not leverage my many good results and better manage my cancer commitments? Letters to the Editor Perhaps it’s time to take control of my life and The Gazette live like I’m not dying? Heck, I’ve done alright 1606 King St. so far. Who’s to say I can’t do better? Alexandria VA 22314 If my oncologist characterizes me as his Call: 703-917-6444. third miracle, then maybe I should start living By e-mail: more miraculously?

Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers.

22 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com FOR YOUR TOYOTA

WELCOME TO ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA’S PERSONALIZED CAR CARE EXPERIENCE

ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 ❖ 23 24 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 15-21, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com