Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A Connection Newspaper August 16, 2018 Page, 8 Restoration of Dyke Marsh Begins 1,500-foot breakwater tional Park Service and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will restore portions of one of the being constructed. largest remaining freshwater tidal wetlands in the Washington metropolitan area. Once By Gerald A. Fill Photo by Gerald A. Fill/The Gazette completed, this project will support habi- The Gazette tat for a variety of plants and wildlife, act as a natural filter to clean the Potomac River he National Park Service and and provide a storm buffer for the historic U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and scenic George Washington Memorial Thave started construction on an Parkway. It is estimated that the southern approximately 1,500-foot portion of Dyke Marsh has existed for 2,200 breakwater at Dyke Marsh Wildlife Pre- years, and the northern marsh has existed serve. for 500 years. This project will focus atten- In an Aug. 8 press release, the park ser- tion on the northern marsh. Dyke Marsh vice stated: “The breakwater will help pro- supports 239 species of resident and migra- tect the marsh from erosion, shield the tory birds and contains the only known nest- marsh from storms and encourage the ac- ing habitat in the area for state and region- cumulation of sediment, which is necessary Commemorating the announced start of Dyke Marsh restoration are ally rare species such as least bitterns and for marsh regeneration. The first part of the Dorothy McManus, board member, Friends of Dyke Marsh, and Chief swamp sparrows. The marsh supports 300 breakwater construction will involve place- of Staff of U.S. National Park Service Aaron Larocca at the entrance to plant species, including rare state species ment of rock baskets, known as marine Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve on Aug. 8. such as river bulrush, Davis’ sedge and mattresses, in the Potomac River to estab- rough avens. It also provides habitat for 38 lish the base of the structure and provide ters. Congress created the National Park Marsh are very pleased that restoration, for species of fish, 30 species of reptiles and am- stability for subsequent materials. Service to preserve and protect our nation’s which we have advocated since our found- phibians, and more than 6,000 species of Glenda Booth, president of the Friends greatest treasures. The Dyke Marsh Wild- ing in 1976, has finally begun.” arthropods, according to the park service. of Dyke Marsh praised the announcement: life Preserve is one of those treasures. Dyke Construction of the breakwater started in The National Park Service completed the “A fully-functioning Dyke Marsh can help Marsh will be completely gone by 2035 July and is expected to take up to 18 months. Dyke Marsh Restoration and Long-term buffer the Mount Vernon community from without restoration action [according to] Marsh restoration work will begin follow- Management Plan in 2016. The environ- storms that come up the river and provide the U.S. Geological Survey. Congress di- ing the completion of the breakwater, ac- mental compliance documents are available some flood protection since wetlands per- rected that the Dyke Marsh Wildlife Pre- cording to the park service. Through the at: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/ form like sponges and can absorb floodwa- serve be restored. The Friends of Dyke Dyke Marsh Restoration Project, the Na- projectHome.cfm?projectID=20293. Prepared To Manage Deer

Photo by Mike Salm

Officials hold public information Photo by Colin Dixon meetings ahead of program launch. By Andrea Worker surance companies puts the Com- The Gazette monwealth in 11th place. Since on/The Gazette 2010, the state has averaged 111 aturday, Sept. 8, marks the deer-vehicle collisions reported start of the Fairfax County annually, but those numbers are S Deer by the roadside: 2018-2019 Deer Manage- probably underestimating the ac- ment Program. tual events according to Dr. Saturday, Sept. 8, marks There are probably very few Katherine Edwards, the county’s the start of the Fairfax County 2018-2019 Deer county residents who can claim to See Deer, Page 3 World Elephant Day have never seen a deer in their Management Program. Fresh from the Hollin Hall travels around our region. Sadly,

bakery, these elephant cup- quite a few can claim having ex- 8/17/18 Requested in home in Requested

cakes were being served on perienced an up-close-and-per- material. Sunday, World Elephant Day sonal whitetail encounter on the Time-sensitive

2018 at Unwined in Belle Postmaster: roadways. Attention

View. Mount Vernon resident

In a 2016 study, Virginia was #482 Permit

Drusti Naik was on hand to th VA Alexandria,

ranked 13 in the nation for the PAID

speak about elephants. Postage U.S. number of deer-vehicle collisions. STD PRSRT The latest study by State Farm In- www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette Editor Steven Mauren News 703-778-9415 or [email protected] Deer Management Program Explained

From Page 1 wildlife management specialist. “The real number could be three or four times higher than that,” said Edwards, not- Photo by Andrea Worker/The Gazette ing that the Virginia Department of Trans- portation is called to pick up 1,500-1,600 deer carcasses each year and that field work has also shown that probably only 25 per- cent of the deer who are hit actually die on the roadside. Edwards, along with Sgt. Earit Powell of the Fairfax County Police Department, and Kristen Sinclair, an ecologist with the Fairfax County Park Authority, are the county offi-

Photo by Mary Kimm cials charged with the supervision of the program and they have been hosting a se- ries of public information meetings prior to the launch to explain the logistics and an- From left: Sgt. Earit Powell, Fairfax County Police swer any questions or concerns from citi- Department; Dr. Katherine Edwards, county wildlife zens. management specialist; and Kristen Sinclair, county The trio have already hosted two meet- Park Authority ecologist, meet with the public at the ings; one at Fairfax County Government North Governmental Center in Reston to discuss the Deer by the roadside: Saturday, Sept. 8, marks the Center, and a second at the North Govern- upcoming deer management program, slated to begin start of the Fairfax County 2018-2019 Deer Manage- ment Center in Reston. on Sept. 8. ment Program.

THE SESSIONS OPEN with a bit of his- The ecologist provided data showing that utes prior to sunrise to 30 minutes past sun- donated primarily to homeless shelters tory explaining that public safety was the the impact of unchecked deer populations down. Parks remain open during the har- through the nonprofit “Hunters for the Hun- impetus behind the development of the pro- on parklands allows for the proliferation of vests, but Powell notes that every precau- gry.” gram. non-native, invasive plant species and tion to protect citizens is taken. Hunting can Hunting deer as a method of controlling Following a fatal deer-vehicle collision in slowly erodes the biodiversity of these habi- only be done from raised deer stands using their population is not always met with 1997, and public demand for local govern- tats. the ground as the backdrop. Hunters must approval. Some residents object to destroy- ment to address the issue of deer popula- “Over-browsing by deer can lead to a loss remain 100 feet from any private property ing an animal that is just trying to survive tion, the Board of Supervisors mandated of ecosystem services,” said Sinclair, “nega- line, and at least 50 feet from a trail. Enter- in a vanishing wilderness. But as Edwards that a strategy to control the deer popula- tively affecting native plants, insects and ing private property is strictly prohibited explained, other, non-lethal methods like tion in the area be put in place. The strat- birds in the area.” without the consent of the property owner. tagging deer with birth control drugs or ster- egy addressed public safety concerns and “We have had zero safety incidents,” said ilization “just haven’t proven effective or are also the increasing damage being done by THERE ARE THREE methods of deer har- Powell, “and we work diligently to keep cost prohibitive, although we continue to the deer to private property and ecosystems vesting that the county employs, all permit- things that way.” stay up to date with the latest research and of public parklands, ted under the Commonwealth’s Department Questioned about “wounding rates” ver- will adjust our program accordingly.” Today, the deer management program is of Game and Inland Fisheries: archery, man- sus proven kills, Powell insists that every implemented by the Fairfax County Police aged firearms hunts, and sharpshooting effort is made to track “unrecovered hits.” THE DEER MANAGEMENT program is Department in partner- conducted at night by Powell himself can take to the woods to try ultimately about public safety, said ship with the Fairfax police personnel in and find a wounded animal or determine if Edwards, “and the protection of the envi- County Park Authority closed-park situations. the deer died later from the hit. The wound- ronment, and about helping sustain a popu- and the Northern Vir- “We have had zero ❖ Archery is the ing rate between 2014-2018 is between 4- lation of healthy deer as part of our natural ginia Regional Park Au- safety incidents, and number one manage- to-7 percent. “But even that is too high,” surroundings.” thority. ment tool as it has been added Edwards, who vows that they will There is one more public meeting sched- Powell heads the deer we work diligently to shown to harvest the keep working to reduce that number. uled for Thursday, Aug. 16, at 7 p.m. at the harvest operations. most deer with the ❖ Managed firearms hunts have been Mount Vernon District Police Station Com- Edwards is the wildlife keep things that way.” highest degree of scheduled in the Sully Woods area, on munity Room at 2511 Parkers Lane in Al- management specialist, — Sgt. Earit Powell, Fairfax safety for hunters and Wednesday, Nov. 28, Wednesday, Jan. 9, exandria. A complete list of the parks where and Sinclair is the ex- for the general public 2019, and Wednesday, Feb. 6, 2019. Again, deer harvesting will take place, and the pert on all things re- County Police Department in such high-density strict control and supervision is employed methods that will be employed at each, in- lated to the natural en- areas as Fairfax to ensure hunter and public safety. Hunters cluding dates for managed firearm and vironment which the deer inhabit — and County. The archery harvest will run from are assigned tree stands by 6 a.m. and the sharpshooting operations, is available on which they are in danger of permanently Sept. 8 through Feb. 23, 2019. hunt concludes with all participants vacat- the county’s website at damaging. The hunters must complete a bow hunt- ing the stands by 1 p.m. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/wildlife/deer-man- The over-browsing of the parklands by ing education course, pass proficiency tests ❖ Planned night time sharpshooting op- agement-program. The site also provides deer is “hindering forest regeneration,” said and criminal background checks before be- erations by specially-trained police person- historical data on the numbers of deer har- Sinclair, by their consumption of seedlings ing assigned to a hunt cluster under the nel are scheduled for the Annandale Com- vested in past operations by location, by and saplings, shrubs and bushes, changing oversight of a cluster supervisor. Each munity Park, Bull Run Regional Park, Hunt- method, and by sex and more information the very composition of the forest over time. hunter has a personal ID number and their ley Meadows/Dogue Creek Stream Valley, about the logistics, requirements, and fre- Gathering accurate data on the deer equipment should be marked with that and Loftridge Park/Clermont Park. Officials quently asked questions. population and their ecological impact con- number. All activity by the hunters is logged are also considering sharpshooting at Fry- Edwards, Powell and Sinclair welcome tinues to be challenging, Sinclair admits, but into a database within 24 hours and are ing Pan Farm Park. comments and questions from residents of efforts have been increased and scientifi- monitored. These operations will be conducted be- the county, and are more than willing to cally improved over the last several years. “They are also required to field dress any tween November 2018 and March 2019, but speak with local groups, HOAs and other She oversees hundreds of “browsing deer they harvest, and to remove the car- no hunts will take place over the Thanks- organizations, or private citizens looking for plots” throughout the county’s park system cass covered and as discreetly as possible,” giving holidays or during the winter holi- advice on how to coexist with hooved neigh- and in conjunction with the Northern Vir- said Powell. day season between Dec. 19, 2018 and Jan. bors. Their contact information can be ginia Regional Park Authority. The hunts are conducted from 30 min- 2, 2019. The venison from the harvest is found on the website. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 ❖ 3 News Voters to decide bond referendum to fund improvements to fire stations, criminal justice academy, and courthouse. $182 Million Sought for Public Safety By Ken Moore THE POLICE DEPARTMENT would re- Bond Referendum Verbatim The Gazette ceive $59 million: $18 million to renovate Shall Fairfax County, Virginia, contract a debt, facilities, including the construction, reconstruc- and expand the Mason District Station borrow money, and issue bonds in the maximum tion, enlargement, renovation and equipment of he county will ask voters to ap- which was built in 1975; $18 million to aggregate principal amount of $182,000,000 to civil and criminal justice facilities, police training prove $182 million to renovate, renovate and upgrade its Criminal Justice provide funds, in addition to funds from public and operational facilities and stations, fire and res- expand and replace fire and po- Academy used to train 2,300 officers, depu- safety facilities bonds previously authorized, to fi- cue training facilities and stations, including fire T nance, including reimbursement to the County for and rescue stations owned by volunteer organiza- lice department and Circuit ties, and police and sheriff’s recruits from temporary financing for, the costs of public safety tions, and the acquisition of necessary land? Court facilities on election day, Nov. 6. the county police and sheriff offices as well Fairfax County Board of Supervisors au- as the towns of Herndon and Vienna; and only be used for the purpose stated in the pamphlet that is mailed to all county house- thorized the $182 million public safety bond $18 million to renovate, expand or replace ballot question. holds to help inform the public about the referendum at its July 31 and June 19 meet- the Police Evidence Storage Building used “While the project lists for the public referendum. The pamphlet will be trans- ings. to store evidence for court cases. safety bonds represent the current propos- lated into the most widely spoken non-En- $73 million would be earmarked for im- The Mason District Station, built in 1975, als regarding what projects to fund, the glish languages in the county, including provements to four fire stations — Mount does not have adequate office, storage, ballot question is phrased more generally, Korean, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Vernon ($16 million), Fairview ($16 mil- workout, or interview spaces to support to allow the board flexibility as to precisely Voters will be asked to vote “yes” or “no” lion), Gunston ($13 million), and Seven operations, according to county documents, which projects to fund with the bond pro- on the public safety bond question. If ulti- Corners ($13 million) — that are all 37 and needs upgraded building systems and ceeds,” according to county documents. mately approved, the county plans to sell years or older. infrastructure improvements. The Office of Public Affairs traditionally $182 million in general obligation bonds The county fire stations require the re- The Police Evidence Storage Building also prepares and distributes an informational to make the renovations and improvements. placement of major building subsystems, houses the warrant desk and the victim ser- such as HVAC and electrical systems. And vices section. facility improvements would expand equip- “Adequate climate controlled storage is ment bays to provide adequate space for needed to properly store this property in

apparatus and space for staffing require- an organized manner. Strict accountability Mount Vernon Lee Chamber Photo ments, as well as to enhance bunk-rooms and oversight are also necessary to meet and locker facilities for male and female accreditation standards,” according to personnel, according to county documents. county documents. Currently, “the second There were few if any female fire and res- and third floors are not able to adequately cue personnel 37 years ago. support high density storage, which limits An additional $15 million would be used storage above the first floor of the build- to improve one of the eight volunteer sta- ing.” tion that is more than 40 years old. “Staff is currently reviewing the various THE ADULT DETENTION Center needs capital needs of these eight volunteer sta- $45 million of improvements to three wings tions and would return to the board with of the detention center, including plumb- the follow-on recommendation for station ing, electrical, HVAC, elevator and fire pro- specific capital improvements,” according tection systems as well as security and cam- to county documents. “In addition, the bond era equipment. $5 million would be used Public School-College Partnership includes temporary fire stations to maintain to improve the Jennings Judicial Center. A high school in a college will be located at the Original Mount operations during construction.” “The original Jennings Building was com- Vernon High School as a partnership between Northern Virginia pleted in the early 1980s and the court- Community College (NVCC) and Fairfax County Public Schools rooms have been in constant use by the (FCPS). Dr. Annette Haggray, provost of the Alexandria Campus of public since that time. To keep them opera- NVCC, discussed the plans at the Aug. 9 business breakfast hosted Correction tional and enhance their efficiency, these by Mount Vernon Lee Chamber of Commerce. High school students courtrooms require improved lighting, would be able to earn both a high school degree and a two-year In “Enjoying National Night Out in ductwork realignment, ADA upgrades, car- associate’s degree, or up to two years’ credit toward a bachelor’s Mount Vernon [Mount Vernon Ga- peting, wall and ceiling replacement/re- degree. Karen Corbett Sanders, chair of FCPS, noted that it will still zette, Aug. 9], the article should have pairs, refinishing of the gallery benches, take several years before this high school is opened as the planning stated the muscial group Current Situ- renovation of the jury rooms and technol- is still in the beginning stages. Above are Christine Morin, chief of ation has four members. The article ogy upgrades,” according to county docu- staff for Supervisor Dan Storck; Sanders, FCPS chairman; Del. Paul left out Mary Bowers, vocalist who ments. Krizek; Scott Stroh III, Chamber chairman; Haggray, NVCC; and also plays guitar and accordian. Sonja Caison, Chamber president. BY LAW, the money from the bonds may

4 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com In Memoriam

Alex/Potomac Valley $529,900 8807 Vernon View Drive Lovely, 4BR, 2BA, 4 lvl Split on a lg, beautiful .3 acre lot w/a fenced bkyd. Photos Contributed SOLD Freshly painted interior & beautiful refinished hdwds. Main lvl has a spa- cious & cozy Family rm w/gas FPL, 4th BR, & 2nd full bath. Upper level #1 offers an open kitchen plus Living & Dining Rm. Upper level #2 has full bath & 3BRs. The lower level has a lg partially finished Rec rm. Good price on a super lot. Alex/Stratford Landing $564,900 2620 Culpeper Road Gene Pauline Hine Ives with her flight instruc- Gene Pauline Hine Ives with a Lovely 4BR, 3.5BA home in Stratford tor, 1942. Mother’s Day bouquet. Landing. 2 master suites (w/their own SOLD baths) – one up, one down. Beautiful 1/3 acre lot: fenced backyard. Deck off of the kitchen. Cathedral ceiling in Living rm & Dining rm. New Remembering Gene Ives carpeting in lower level. Wood Shingle exterior w/front columns. Family rm FPLwith high-end wood stove insert. May you always have courage to take a chance, Fenced play area. Artist, pilot, quilter, And never find frogs in your underpants.” Alex/Wessynton $629,000 Ask her how she was, and Mom would smile and 3301 Wessynton Way and mother. say, “Fine as frog’s hair!” Thanks to Mom, I find that Beautiful home in Wessynton. Mt. Vernon’s it actually makes one feel better to say, when asked, UNDER sought after contemporary community, By Suzanne Ives Dunkley just a stone’s throw to Mt. Vernon Estate “Why, I’m fine as frog’s hair!” CONTRACT & George Washington Pkwy, & is adjacent Taking a chance was something Mom excelled in. to Little Hunting Creek. Large kitchen ne year ago on Aug. 22, 2017, my To say she was a bit of a daredevil is no exaggera- w/breakfast area & a separate Dining Rm. Beautiful hdwd floors. FPL’s in mother, former Alexandria resident tion. As a young teenager at Fort Myer in the Dis- Gene Pauline Hine Ives, died in the Living Rm & Family Rm. Situated in a natural, wooded setting the home’s bountiful O trict, she loved to swan dive off the high platform at windows bring outdoors inside. Enjoy the natural landscaping on your deck. 1 car garage. Melbourne, Fla. after suffering a the post swimming pool, a feat shunned by many of Community amenities include boat ramp, swimming pool, tennis courts. stroke. She was 94 years old and was born on June her contemporaries. She was also a competitive Alex/Engleside $1,300,000 13, 1923 in Washington, D.C. at Walter Reed. Her swimmer and was very proud of her silver medal 8734 Lukens Lane father and longtime Alexandria resident Col. Henry 4.128 acres zones R-2 for sale. There from a swim meet. Water was not her only element, are 2 lots: 4/0 acres w/house (Tax Chester Hine, Jr. was an Army officer stationed in UNDER however. She was at home in the air, too. At Fort Map 1101 01 0043) and .128 acre the area at the time with her mother Norvell Pauline, CONTRACT vacant land (1101 01 0043A). House Bliss, Texas toward the end of World War II, she who was the daughter of soon-to-be Chief of Chap- on Property sold “AS IS” and NO learned to pilot a plane for the Civil Air Patrol, al- ACCESS given or allowed. Land lains Julian E. Yates. She had a sister Janet Hines though those wings were not always shiny. As she Value only. Water, sewer, gas, and a half-sister Page Billig, both now deceased. Be- electricity available. This land is was taxiing for takeoff on her first solo flight, a gust fore moving to Florida, she was a resident of Alex- adjacent to the houses on Halley of wind flipped over her little Piper Cub, breaking Farm Ct. which were built in the 2010-2011 time frame. andria and Fairfax County for 37 years beginning in off the propeller which still exists today. She eventu- 1962. Alex/Mt. Vernon Woods ally made it into the air, but not that day. As it turned 8102 Martha Washington Gene had five children with her adoring husband out, all the other flights had been grounded and her Precious 3BR, 1BA Rambler – of 60 years, Col. Robert Northrup Ives, who passed Perfect Starter Home – Double instructor should not have made her fly. COMINGSOON away in 2006. They are, in order of birth, Sheryl pane windows and updated bath She had met the handsome Bob Ives when they plus wood burning fireplace– Large Lindgren Ives Kearsley of Albuquerque, N.M.; Rob- were teenagers in the Philippines just before World deck overlooks the beautifully ert Northrup Ives, Jr. of Laguna Niguel, Calif.; landscaped, deep, fenced backyard- War II. She reunited with him not long after he gradu- Suzanne Pauline Ives Dunkley of Alexandria, Va.; Perfect for the grill. Roof 2016, ated from West Point in 1945. Though their mar- A/C Compressor 2017, HWH 2018 Sheila Janet Aemilia Ives of Burnsville, N.C.; and riage cut short her flying career (for a brief time she -- 10 minutes to Ft. Belvoir, 17 mins Russell Chester Phillip Ives of Annapolis, Md. to Old town, Alex. even outranked him), she did soar to new heights in My name is Suzanne and I am Gene’s third child. Alex/Vernon on Potomac $595,900 childrearing and had five children, six grandchildren Our memories of my mother are tales of beauty, joy, 8534 Riverside Road and, at last count, four great-grandchildren. Lovely 4BR, 3BA Split w/DBL carport in laughter, courage, and love. Beauty, because she was Gene was a lover of the arts. A career woman in SOLD Stratford Landing Elementary District. flat-out gorgeous. As a young woman with that shiny Numerous updates including Kitch- mid-life, she was a graphic artist for the U.S. Gov- dark hair and those bright blue eyes, she would be en, Baths, tankless HWH, DBL Pane ernment (having been employed at the National War windows, exterior siding, beautiful hdwd stopped by strangers and asked if she was a movie College in Washington, D.C.) and had been desig- floors on main level and lovely laminate star, and not just once — often. Even when she got (like hard wood) floors throughout lower nated in the 1960s to accompany dignitaries to a decades older, many people — including her doc- level. Fenced back yard w/a wood deck nuclear shelter should the need arise. She was a and brick patio- Short walk to Stratford tors — thought she was much younger. painter for most of her life and later became an ac- elementary. This is a keeper!! Joy, because she always made you feel she was complished and prize-winning quilter. Although it is Alex/Mt. Vernon Forest $614,900 just so glad to see you. I remember when my hus- 9123 Cherrytree Drive accepted practice now to quilt by machine, she, like band Michael and I surprised her with a visit a few Large, beautiful 4BR, 3BA Split w/a many of her fellow quilters at the time, designed and spectacular open and renovated kitchen years ago. She opened the door and when she saw SOLD made all of hers completely by hand — stitch by care- (75,000) – Gorgeous refinished hard- me there, her mouth dropped open, she cupped my wood floors on main level, gas fireplace, ful stitch. Locally, she had been a member of Mount face in her hands, and through her tears she cried, double pane replacement windows- Vernon Quilters Unlimited. One of her quilted wall Stunning screened-in porch overlooks “It is you! It is you!” hangings, which was based on Mary Cassatt’s paint- backyard. Separate utility and workshop Laughing came easily and was one of Mom’s fa- rooms offer tons of storage. Throw-in ing “The Boating Party,” was in a special exhibit at vorite pastimes. When she really got going she al- updated roof, HVAC system plus a large the DAR Museum at Constitution Hall in the 1990s. circular driveway – Great Price. ways looked a little embarrassed and mischievous, She was also a member of local book and garden as if she were getting away with something. Though clubs in the White Oaks area of Mount Vernon, as she did not write it, she shared a short poem with well as an avid opera lover who subscribed to some of us that really made her giggle. Kennedy Center performances by the Washington “May the light always find you on a dreary day, See Remembering Gene Ives, Page 14 When you need to be home, may you find your way, www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 ❖ 5 Opinion

www.MountVernonGazette.com

Freedom of the Press, Friend of Democracy @MtVernonGazette

choose not to repeat here. An independent, locally owned weekly Under attack, abroad The editorial board of Boston Globe made a First Amendment newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. national call to action for all newspaper edito- Congress shall make no law respecting an es- Published by and now at home. rial boards — both large and small, rural, sub- tablishment of religion, or prohibiting the free Local Media Connection LLC urban and metro — across the country to pub- exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of 1606 King Street he press is protected in the U.S. lish a coordinated response to the president’s speech, or of the press; or the right of the people Alexandria, Virginia 22314 Constitution by name in the First “enemy of the people” rhetoric today, Aug. 16. peaceably to assemble, and to petition the gov- Amendment. The founders recog- “We propose to publish an editorial on Aug. ernment for a redress of grievances. Free digital edition delivered to T your email box. Go to nized the key role that newspapers 16 on the dangers of the administration’s as- connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe would play as watchdogs for all layers of gov- sault on the press and ask others to commit to one of its first 50 World Press Freedom Heroes ernment, a key ingredient in a successful de- publishing their own editorials on the same in 2000. NEWS DEPARTMENT: mocracy. Newspapers have played that role date,” the Globe editorial board wrote. Here at Local Media Connection, we are [email protected] well. Journalism is a dangerous occupation in unified in our mission to benefit the commu- Steven Mauren Newspapers have been under assault by tech- many other countries, usually not here in the nity. We are blessed to work in a place where Editor, 703-778-9415 nological and economic forces for years. Some U.S. we know violence is rare, and our efforts are [email protected] of the harm done to govern- But the fear local journalists feel increased more often appreciated that cursed. We won Jean Card Editorial ment and the public good when close to home here after the murders of five in the 2016 Virginia Press Association Award for Production Editor newspapers close was docu- the newsroom of the Capital Gazette in An- Journalistic Integrity and Community Service, [email protected] mented in recent study, “Fi- napolis recently. the Virginia Press Association’s highest award, Andrea Worker nancing Dies in Darkness? The Impact of News- One member of Connection Newspapers staff for coverage and editorials leading to police Contributing Writer paper Closures on Public Finance.” is Kemal Kurspahic, who shares with us his reform in Fairfax County. [email protected] But now newspapers and other news outlets first-hand experience of running a newspaper We last won the award in 2011 “for exhaus- Jeanne Theismann are facing for the first time a sustained attack from a war zone when information was des- tive coverage of homelessness in the [email protected] from the 45th President of the United States. perately needed by the besieged residents of newspaper’s circulation area.” First place for @TheismannMedia It is the role of the President of the United Sarajevo. Kurspahic is managing editor for The “in depth and investigative reporting” went to States historically to inspire the American Connection Newspapers. He was the editor-in- ADVERTISING: our series on teen sex trafficking. We’ve focused For advertising information people by words and actions. This president chief of the Bosnian daily Oslobodjenje in on efforts to feed hungry children right here. [email protected] has hammered away at the press in general Sarajevo, Bosnia Herzegovina, 1988-94. Un- We feature good works by members of the com- 703-778-9431 and reporters specifically. der his leadership the paper published every munity in our 15 papers every week. We’re Debbie Funk Today we join hundreds of other newspapers day from the atomic bomb shelter below fighting the good fight in the face of devastat- Display Advertising/National Sales to identify the danger involved when the leader Oslobodjenje’s shelled skeleton of a building ing economic forces, changes in advertising 703-778-9444 of the free world invokes the language of dic- during the siege of Sarajevo. patterns and huge newsprint increases. [email protected] tators and authoritarian rulers in attacking the He was critically injured himself when a ve- We shouldn’t have to fear thinly veiled calls Julie Ferrill credibility of the press, referring to it as “the hicle taking him to his newsroom crashed as it for violence and hatred from the leader of our Real Estate, 703-927-1364 enemy of the people,” Calling our work “fake traveled at high speed down “sniper alley.” The nation. [email protected] news.” There are many nastier quotes that we International Press Institute named Kurspahic — Mary Kimm Helen Walutes Display Advertising, 703-778-9410 [email protected]

Improving Fire Marshal Inspections David Griffin Marketing Assistant By Holly Hicks Dougherty could improve the customer service aspect of These are very positive steps for small busi- 703-778-9431 [email protected] Executive Director the Fire Marshal office. The first was project- nesses in their interactions with Fairfax County Mount Vernon Lee Chamber of Commerce based inspections or assigning the same Fire staff. Consistency in the inspection process will Classified & Employment Marshal to a project from beginning to end assist all business development and operations. Advertising 703-778-9431 airfax County’s Fire Marshal office has rather than have one inspector give certain The opportunity to provide feedback on an adopted reforms advocated for by instructions followed by another inspector who inspection or inspector will benefit all parties. F Publisher Mount Vernon Lee Chamber that will would give different or additional instructions. Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department is Jerry Vernon improve the way businesses receive inspections This reform has been adopted. It was an idea to be commended for adopting these 703-549-0004 and allow businesses to provide comments on whose time had come. commonsense procedures to help businesses [email protected] the service received. The second recommendation was a customer and promote public safety. Please take a minute Editor & Publisher Here’s how it happened. As part of the Fairfax service survey for those who had received a and thank Battalion Chief John L. Walser, Fire Mary Kimm [email protected] County Fire & Rescue Department’s strategic Fire Marshal visit. The Chamber made the point Prevention Services, FCR&RD for making these @MaryKimm planning process, the Chamber sent a letter that this is standard procedure for businesses reforms. He can be emailed at that encouraged a review of the Fire Marshal now to want to know how their employees [email protected] Editor in Chief Steven Mauren office as part of the strate- perform in their interactions with the public. Art/Design: Commentary gic planning. We encour- This recommendation has also been adopted. Laurence Foong, John Heinly, aged specific procedures After a visit by a Fire Marshal you can now Ali Khaligh Production Manager: that could improve the in- visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ Write Geovani Flores teraction between businesses and fire marshals. 9R99VMX and take a survey that begins, “In As a result of this letter, then Fire Chief Bow- our effort to efficiently and effectively meet The Gazette welcomes views on any public issue. CIRCULATION ers called and set up a meeting between the your needs, please evaluate your most recent The deadline for all material is noon Circulation Manager: Chamber leadership and himself and top offi- experience with our Inspections staff and ser- Friday. Letters must be signed. Include Ann Oliver [email protected] cials in the FCF&RD. At this meeting, Jane vices by completing this short survey. Your feed- home address and home and business Gandee, ServiceMaster Restore; Scott Stroh, back will help us better identify and address numbers. Letters are routinely edited for libel, grammar, good taste and factual A Connection Newspaper Gunston Hall; Sonja Caison, The Cleaning issues impacting those like yourself, whom we errors. Send to: Authority; Chris Reddick, The National Capi- serve every day.” tal Bank; Phyllis Sintay, McEnearney Associ- The survey can be anonymous if you desire Letters to the Editor The Gazette ates; and myself represented the interests of or if you would like a supervisor to contact 1606 King St. the business community. These business lead- you regarding the visit then you must leave Alexandria VA 22314 ers who volunteer their time with the Cham- your contact information. This is a huge vic- Call: 703-917-6444. ber are very effective advocates and as an or- tory for businesses. When you receive a visit By e-mail: [email protected] ganization we have influence. from the Fire Marshal’s office please take the We discussed two specific initiatives that survey and provide comments.

6 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 ❖ 7 Photo courtesy of Terri’s Table

Cutting fresh produce into bite-sized pieces can make school lunches appealing to children, advises Terri Carr of Terri’s Table. Lunches That Make the Grade said. “Cutting fruit into larger pieces for example, Ideas for packing healthy keeps them from turning brown as quickly. A Granny Smith apples for example is less likely to turn brown foods that children won’t than a Red Delicious apple.” Packing a lunchbox with foods that are hearty and want to trade. nutrient-dense is a key to maintaining a feeling of By Marilyn Campbell satiety throughout the day, advises Ducey. “You want your kids to have a stable blood sugar,” she said. or many children, one of the exciting back-to- “Beans are good for protein and keeping their blood Fschool rituals is selecting a new lunchbox. For sugar stable. Try things like white bean hummus, parents, that means choosing midday fare to chili and stews and soups that are made with beans.” pack in those lunch-pails. While fresh ideas for Involving children in the process of selecting and healthy and satisfying meals may flow freely at the preparing the items that go into their lunch boxes is beginning of the school year, as the weeks pass, it a key to increasing the chances that those healthy can become easy to slip into a lunchtime rut of daily items will actually be consumed, advises Terri Carr turkey sandwiches. Local nutritionists and culinary of Terri’s Table, a cooking school in Potomac, Md. instructors offer ideas designed to serve up lunchbox “Children love to cook and the desire for cooking love all year long. classes in this area is tremen- “Making healthy lunches is dous. Carr offers classes on just about parents educating “Lunches should be cooking with children. themselves on the healthy food “Many kids will eat fresh options that are available and exciting and appealing, baby carrots, celery and cu- then teaching their kids to cumber, which are also hydrat- make healthy food choices,” especially when ing,” added Carr. “Crunchy said Mary Murray of Reston- dried fruit like blueberry, based Teri Cochrane, Beyond children are feeling like apples and mangos can go in Nutrition. “With my own kids, their lunchboxes instead of I just kept bad food choices out they might be judged.” chips and they’re usually a hit.” of the house so they didn’t have — Sara Ducey, Professor, Nutrition Replacing fruit juice with those options.” and Food at Montgomery College natural fruit water by soaking Trade junk food favorites like fresh fruit in water to add a potato chips for healthy alternatives like plantain burst of flavor without added chips, advises Murray “Plantain chips are actually sugar is another option offered by Cochrane’s firm. very good and they’re also good for you and still have Stevia or monkfruit can also been added to sweeten the crunch. If kids were to bring some extra to share the taste without increasing the sugar content. with their friends, more kids will see that they’re “When it comes to beverages, children should only actually delicious.” have whole milk and water in their lunchboxes,” said “Protein and vegetables are remarkably important, Ducey. “Whole milk keeps the child fuller longer. Skim but underrepresented,” said Sara Ducey, professor, milk actually spikes sugar and they’re full at first, Nutrition and Food at Montgomery College. “A lot of but hungry soon after. And a hungry kid doesn’t learn carbs or snacks, stuff like chips, end up in children’s as well.” lunchboxes because they have a social value for kids As important as the food that goes into a child’s who feel like they’re open to being judged.” lunchbox are the containers that hold each dish, sug- There is a social component to lunchbox fare that gests Ducey. “Invest in good quality stainless steel should not be overlooked, continues Ducey. “Lunches containers and utensils rather than plastic,” she said. should be exciting and appealing, especially when “Plastic can transmit chemicals into your food, so children are feeling like they might be judged,” she stainless steel is a good alternative.” 8 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 ❖ 9 Entertainment

Submit entertainment announcements at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday.

ONGOING Life Under the Sea. Through Aug. 26 at Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery, in Torpedo Factory Art Center, Studio 29, 105 North Union St., Alexandria. Real or imagined, the world beneath the waves calls to the artists for this show: Enchanted mermaids, coral, shells, sunken ships, fish, and glorious colors. Free. Visit www.Potomacfiberartsgallery.com or call 703-548-0935. Art Exhibit: “Off the Grid.” Through Aug. 31, gallery hours at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. “Off the Grid” is an exhibit of artwork by Fairfax County and City of Jade celestial ceramic Alexandria inmates. The inmates vary lantern by Helene Vonnegut in age, background and artistic Jade celestial ceramic of Arlington, Va. experience, with most having never lantern by Pam Eisenmann drawn before their lessons with volunteer art instructor Kelli High-fire crimson horizon plate by Phyllis Roderer of of Springfield, Va. Schollard-Sincock. Visit Manassas, Va. torpedofactory.org. Fine Art Photography Exhibit. Through Sept. 2 at Multiple Exposures Gallery, located in Studio 312 at the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria. Show features 30 images juried by Mark L. Power. Ceramics Combust Exhibition hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m. “Brilliance: An Exploration of Heat and daily, except Thursdays, 2 p.m.-8 p.m. Visit Light.” July 30-Sept. 2, at Scope Gallery, 105 www.multipleexposuresgallery.com. North Union St., Studio 19, Torpedo Factory High-fire stoneware Art Exhibit: “A Murder in Bruges: Art Center, Alexandria. Hours are Monday contrast tray with A Cast of Characters.” Through through Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., with brushpainting detail Sept. 2, gallery hours at The Art Thursdays open until 9 p.m. Call Scope Gallery League Gallery, 105 North Union St., at 703-548-6288, visit www.scopegallery.org, by Jennifer Coffin of Studio 21. Artist Ito Briones’s www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/scope. Fairfax, Va. whodunit pays homage to the great mystery writers, from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to Agatha Christie. This interactive exhibit, inspired by classic murder mysteries, presents viewers with a trail of clues that lead to a suspect hidden in plain sight; the the Revolutionary War, Hamilton Free admission. Visit creative world of sewing. At home, Road. Live music. Tickets are $4. Call murderer’s portrait is among the went home to contribute to his www.torpedofactory.org. Wrapped families can find free tutorial support 703-765-4573. twenty five characters on display. community and nation. As part of the around the interior wall of a and activities online by visiting Life Drawing. Del Ray Artisans offers a Opening reception Thursday, Aug. 9, World War I 100th Commemoration, smokestack of the former munitions www.rowbyrowexperience.com or range of open life drawing sessions 6:30-8 p.m. Visit learn how returning veterans served factory, Kara Hammond’s mural, www.artisticartifacts.com for local for anyone to develop life-drawing www.theartleague.org or call 703- Alexandria, including American “Dredging the Lethe,” uses recycled quilting. skills further. Drop-in for the session 683-1780. Legion Post #24, which restored book-pages, collage, charcoal, gesso Mount Vernon Farmers Market. and bring supplies to draw or paint Art Exhibit: Art, Light, and Gadsby’s Tavern in honor of WWI and ink to create large-scale Wednesdays, 8 a.m.-noon at live models. Fee ranges from $8-$12. Metaphor. Through Sept. 2 at veterans. See how the museum drawings of Greek goddesses amid Sherwood Hall Regional Library, All skill levels are welcome. Del Ray Target Gallery in the Torpedo Factory looked under their care and hear contemporary human events. Free 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, Artisans is located at 2704 Mount Art Center, 105 N. Union St., about the contributions veterans still admission. Visit Alexandria. Every Wednesday Vernon Ave. visit Alexandria. New exhibition explores make to the City of Alexandria today. www.torpedofactory.org. (through Dec. 19), 15 local farmers www.TheDelRayArtisans.org for a the connections between art, light, Visit www.gadsbystavern.org. Art Exhibit: Makers in the and producers will sell fresh produce schedule. and metaphor. The opening reception “Dredging The Lethe.” On view Mansion. Through Oct. 22 at and fruits; meats; breads and The Harmony Heritage Singers will be the cornerstone of the through Sept. 14 at The Torpedo Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House pastries; honey, jams and jellies; (Mount Vernon Chapter of Torpedo Factory Art Center’s Late Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Historic Site, 9000 Richmond dairy products and eggs; herbs; and Barbershop Harmony Society), a Shift: Bright Lights on Friday, July Highway. Six installations of work by more. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ daytime, a cappella, Chorus, 20, 7-9 pm. A Gallery Talk with local African American makers hosted parks/farmersmarkets. rehearses on the 2nd and 4th select artist comments will take place in an 1805 mansion owned by Nelly Open for Tours. Through December. Tuesdays, monthly, at Sherwood Hall at 8 p.m. There will also be a special Parke Custis and Lawrence Lewis, At 9000 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria. Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Illuminate pop-up exhibition in the once a prominent plantation home. Woodlawn and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hall Lane, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Newcomers Grand Hall. Learn more at Stories of a transformed African Pope-Leighey House is open for tours welcome for fun or to book for a torpedofactory.org/target. American community through the Friday through Monday, from 11 performance. visit Ceramics Combust. Through Sept. 2 artisan eye. RSVP to a.m. until 4 p.m. (last tour at 3 p.m.) www.HHSingers.org, or call Bruce at at Scope Gallery, 105 North Union [email protected]. Not open to the public Tuesday, 703-352-5271. St., Studio 19, Torpedo Factory Art WFUMC Farmers Market. Tuesdays Wednesday or Thursday. To learn Center, Alexandria. Featuring through Oct. 23, 4-7 p.m. at more about National Trust Sites, visit “Brilliance: An Exploration of Heat Washington Farm United Methodist savingplaces.org/historic-sites. THURSDAY/AUG. 16 and Light.” Hours are Monday Church, 3921 Old Mill Road. Orchard Tours of the Freedom House Summer Garden Tour and Tea. 1-3 through Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Country Produce, from Gardners, Pa., Museum. Saturdays and Sundays, p.m. at Green Spring Gardens, 4603 with Thursdays open until 9 p.m. Call will operate a Farmer’s Market from 1-5 p.m. at Freedom House Museum, Green Spring Road, Alexandria. Scope Gallery at 703-548-6288, visit the west parking lot of WFUMC. They 1315 Duke St. The Freedom House Reservations required. Tour the www.scopegallery.org, also operate from the St. Luke’s Museum was once the headquarters glorious demonstration gardens with www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/ parking lot on Fort Hunt Road on and holding pen for the largest a master gardener docent who will scope. Blue Sky Saturday mornings. They have a very domestic slave trading firm in the inspire you with stories of Green Ancestry Art Exhibit. Through Sept. wide offering ranging from fresh United States, Franklin and Armfield. Spring past and present. Afterward, 2, at Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount vegetables to meat and desserts. The building is currently owned by enjoy a traditional English afternoon Vernon Ave., Alexandria. The Puppet Theatre Admission is free. Visit the Northern Virginia Urban League tea. Programs are by reservation “Ancestry” exhibit at Del Ray Artisans The City of Alexandria’s Office www.washingtonfarmumc.org or call and together with the Office of only. $32/person. Adults. Call 703- showcases how the diverse, vibrant of the Arts has collaborated with 703-780-4696. Historic Alexandria. Visit the 941-7987, TTY 703-324-3988. cultures of our members come the National Capital Puppetry Row by Row Junior. Through Oct. museum in this historic reminder of Zine Share. 5-6:30 p.m. at the Kate together to form one strong Guild for a series of monthly fam- 31, local quilt shops like Artistic slavery. Admission is $5 per person. Waller Barrett Branch Library, 717 community. Visit ily-friendly shows. Saturday, Aug. Artifacts (4750 Eisenhower Ave.) are Tickets can be purchased at the door. Queen St., Alexandria. Zines (zeens) www.DelRayArtisans.org/event/ 18, 10 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. at welcoming children participating in Visit www.alexandriava.gov/ are self-published booklets that can ancestry/. Durant Arts Center, 1605 Row by Row Junior to their shops. Museums. be easily reproduced and shared with Honoring Our Veterans Exhibit. Cameron St., Alexandria. Tickets It’s the junior version of the others. Working on a zine? Bring it to Through Labor Day, at Gadsby’s are $5. Visit alexandriava.gov/ summertime travel event for quilt trade with other zine makers. The Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St., making fans known as Row by Row CLASSES & WORKSHOPS library will run copies and supplies Alexandria. Included in museum webtrac and search keyword Experience. Kids visit shops in Community Dance. 7:30-9:30 p.m. will be available for final touches. admission - Adults: $5, Children “puppet.” person, collect a free sewing pattern, every third Friday at Hollin Hall Ages 12 and older. Visit (ages 5 -12): $3. After his service in and find inspiration in colorful, Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah www.alexlibraryva.org. 10 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment

friendly shows. Tickets are $5. Visit FRIDAY/AUG. 17 alexandriava.gov/webtrac and search Mount Vernon Nights. 7:30 p.m. at keyword “puppet.” Grist Mill Park, 4710 Mt. Vernon Walking with Washington Tour. 10 Memorial Highway. This series of a.m.-12 p.m. at the Alexandria free, public concerts features a Visitors Center, 221 King St., variety of musical performances Alexandria. This guided walking tour reflecting Fairfax County’s diversity, of historic Old Towne covers culture and community spirit. Bring significant people and events in a picnic dinner and a blanket and George Washington’s life and in enjoy one of Fairfax County’s American history, with stops at special summer traditions. Visit Atomic Dog and Ramsay House, Market Square, the www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Carlyle House, Wise’s Tavern, Duvall performances/mt-vernon-nights. House/Tavern, Gadsby’s Tavern, Consequential Cat Washington’s townhouse, The Lord Exhibit honoring canine and feline Fairfax House, “Light-Horse” Harry AUG. 17-26 friends. Through Sept. 30 at Del Ray Lee’s house and Christ Church. Summer Restaurant Week. Spans Artisans’ Gallery Without Walls, VCA Sponsored by the City of Alexandria’s for 10 Days. In neighborhoods Alexandria Animal Hospital, 2660 George Washington Birthday throughout Alexandria, including Duke St. Celebration Committee. Free. Call Old Town, Del Ray and the West Visit www.DelRayArtisans.org/ 703-379-7460 or visit End. Featuring 50 restaurants event/dog-and-cat/. www.washingtonbirthday.com. offering a $35 three-course dinner Games of Yesteryear. 11 a.m.-noon or a $35 dinner for two; and select at Historic Huntley, 6918 Harrison locations offering lunch from $15 Lane, Alexandria. Play games that the or $22 per person lunch and brunch children who once lived at Historic specials. New restaurants include: “Cuddle” by Huntley might have enjoyed, Mia’s Italian Kitchen and Café 44. Suzan Ok. participate in a scavenger hunt, take Returning participants include: a special children’s tour of the home, Hank’s Pasta Bar, Evening Star and make a simple toys to take home Café, BRABO, Vermilion, in this fun-and-games event. $7 per Hummingbird, Del Ray Café and person. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ Virtue Feed & Grain. Restaurants Alexandria. The Animal Welfare Alexandria. Fruit trees make a Specialty Tours. 10 a.m. at parks/historic-huntley/ or call 703- with lunch offerings include: The League of Alexandria partners with wonderful addition to any landscape, Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. 768-2525. Majestic, Vola’s Dockside Grill, NBC4 and Telemundo44 for a pet small or large, flat or hilly. Royal St., Alexandria. Tour the halls 11 Steps to Toxic Free Living with Bastille Brasserie & Bar, Blackwall adoption event at the Vola Lawson Horticulturalist Nancy Olney will where Washington, Lafayette, Essential Oils. 2-4 p.m. at Hitch and Society Fair. Restaurants Aminal Shelter. On this day, the showcase unusual fruits like figs, Jefferson, Madison and Burr partied 532Yoga, 532 North Washington St., with brunch specials include AWLA will waive adoption fees for dates, persimmons, and blueberries and made history. Consider the ideas Alexandria. Free. Visit Chadwicks, Cheesetique, Cedar dogs, cats, rabbits, mice and other that can be grown without pesticides, debated in the rooms where it www.532yoga.com. Knoll, The Wharf and Vermilion. animals. More information can be and will teach you how to care for happened… for some, but not for all. Carpenter’s Shelter. 4-8 p.m. at Visit found at AlexandriaAnimals.org/ these plants while optimizing $12. Visit www.gadsbystavern.org. Torpedo Factory Artists at Mosaic. www.AlexandriaRestaurantWeek.com; ClearItForward, and a live record of fruiting. Participants will receive a Blue Sky Puppet Theatre. 10 a.m. The Torpedo Factory Artists’ call 703-838-5005. all animals adopted as part of Clear rooted cutting from a fig tree to get and 11:15 a.m. at Durant Arts Association (TFAA) is partnering the Shelters can be found at your personal orchard started. Cost is Center, 1605 Cameron St., with Carpenter’s Shelter to install AlexandriaAnimals.org. $22. Call 703-642-5173 or visit Alexandria. The City of Alexandria’s and create art at their temporary SATURDAY/AUG. 18 How to Help Fruit Trees Thrive. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/green- Office of the Arts has collaborated shelter in the former Macy’s located Clear the Shelters Pet Adoption. 9:30-11 a.m. at Green Spring spring. with the National Capital Puppetry at Landmark Mall. A reception to At 4101 Eisenhower Ave., Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, Telling their Story: Museum Guild for a series of monthly family- help raise funds for the collaborative

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 ❖ 11 Entertainment Alexandria Kicks Off Summer Restaurant Week

By Hope Nelson Week. For $22 per person, diners can ex- and porcini “polpetta” or a giant meatball Old House Cosmopolitan Grill, pect a three-course meal sporting a trio of as appetizers, Tuscan brick chicken or 1024 Cameron St. lexandria’s restaurants take an- options for each course. For lunch, try the bistecca alla Florentina on the entrée menu, New to town, Old House Cosmopolitan A other turn in the spotlight with spe- likes of Potomac peach salad, ratatouille and tiramisu added to the dessert lineup. has settled in to the Restaurant Week spirit cial deals in honor of the city’s Sum- skewers and vanilla bean gelato; for brunch, quite nicely. The eatery’s $22 lunch special mer Restaurant Week. cheddar bacon biscuits, quiche and lemon Hank’s Pasta Bar, sports a choice of soup (goulash or The festivities, which run Aug. 17-26, berry Napoleon await. 600 Montgomery St. pfannkuchen, also known as German pan- highlight some of the city’s most compel- The chic pasta purveyor in North Old cake soup) and entrée (lamb chops or spin- ling cuisine with brunch, Mia’s Italian Kitchen, 100 King St. Town is back for another round of Restau- ach spatzle), followed up by a crepe for des- Appetite lunch and dinner deals. Pe- The newcomer to lower King Street is rant Week fun. Chef Jamie Leeds and her sert. Or go with the three-course $35 din- ruse the menus of dozens of starting its Restaurant Week tradition strong team are offering up a $35-per-person ner option, with the likes of mussels and participating restaurants and with a passel of featured dishes. Diners can three-course dinner this time around, and shrimp, tomato mozzarella salad or soup circle your favored date and time — but partake of a two-course lunch (choosing the offerings are compelling. Start off with to start; wiener schnitzel, crab cakes or make a reservation, as the eateries usually either a starter or dessert) for $15; a three- a cool zuppa fredda di heirloom — a chilled Zurcher Geschnetzeltes — a veal ragout — book up quickly. course dinner will set you back $35. For heirloom tomato soup with cucumber and as the main course; followed by black for- lunch, select the likes of zucchini fries or chili flakes — and then proceed to the likes est cake or crepes. Café 44, 44 Canal Center Plaza minestrone to start, a porchetta sandwich of oven-roasted salmon, spaghetti Tucked away within North Old Town’s or eggplant parmesan as a main dish and primavera or New Zealand rack of lamb. Hope Nelson owns and operates the Kitchen Canal Center, Café 44 is offering up a cannoli or Nutella budino as a sweet treat. Finish out the meal with panna cotta or Recessionista blog, located at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her any time brunch and lunch special for Restaurant Dinner will find such additions as eggplant sorbetto and head home satisfied. at [email protected]. Calendar projects will be held on Saturday, Aug. 18. TFAA member artists, working with the staff and residents of Carpenter’s Shelter, will create site- Concert specific art installations, lead interactive artmaking projects, and Soprano Nancy Scimone sings install reproductions of artist works. Jazz at Meade music from Spain, Italy, France and USA. Sponsored by Washington Met- Visit torpedofactoryartists.com. Featuring the Nasar Abadey Quar- ropolitan Philharmonic Summer Cinema Del Ray Outdoor Movies. 7 tet to preserve the American Jazz Series (Ulysses James, director) in p.m. at Mt. Vernon Recreation tradition. Sunday, Aug. 19, 4-6 p.m. historic Old Town. Sunday, Aug. 19, Center, 2701 Commonwealth Ave., at 322 N. Alfred St., Alexandria. $20 3-4:30 p.m. at The Lyceum, 201 Alexandria. Free. Bring family, donation. Visit South Washington St., Alexandria. friends, neighbors and a blanket to www.meadechurch.org/Ministries/ watch these open-air movies Donations accepted at the door. Visit JAZZ_AT_MEADE/ for more. including The Lion King, The Lego www.wmpamusic.org. Batman Movie, Toy Story 3, Cars 3 and Coco at Cinema Del Ray, sponsored by The Jen Walker Team. Visit www.facebook.com/ cinemadelray. Nasar Nancy Abadey Scimone SUNDAY/AUG. 19 Heart on Your Sleeve. 1-3:30 p.m. at Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria. Sleeves have been designed in myriad styles American Jazz tradition. $20 Alexandria. Cost is $45/person. The Every year, Alexandria Library hosts Del Ray Psych & Wellness Lot, 1900 over the centuries and defined the donation. Visit “Wildflower Inspect & Sketch” events honoring the anniversary of Mt. Vernon Ave. Maureen Clyne fashionable silhouettes of their day. www.meadechurch.org/Ministries/ program is a three-morning the peaceful protest. Beginning teaches Cool Yoga – Del Ray’s free Artist and collector Caroline JAZZ_AT_MEADE/. exploration of art and summer Friday, Aug. 17, Local History/ summer outdoor yoga, Wednesdays Hottenstein presents the history and wetland wildflowers. Participants age Special Collections Branch and the through Aug. 29. Chill out after class different forms of this vital element 10 to adult will learn about flower Kate Waller Barrett Branch will host with the Cool Yoga After-Party of fashion and displays beautiful SUNDAYS/AUG. 19 & 26 identification, seed development and the ‘Anniversary of the 1939 Sit-In’ featuring refreshments courtesy of examples from her antique clothing Yoga for Healthy Backs. 11 a.m.- dispersal, anatomy and pollination exhibit to honor Samuel W. Tucker Bon Vivant Cafe + Farm Market. collection. By reservation only. 12:30 p.m. at 532Yoga, 532 North while observing and drawing in the and the five men. Visit Email [email protected]. Adults. Cost is $42/person (program Washington St., Alexandria. Maintain park’s wetland. Parent-child alexlibraryva.org. + tea); $18 (program only). Call a strong and healthy back. Take participant pairs are welcome. Call Twilight & Tipple Tuesday Tours. 703-941-7987, TTY 703-324-3988. charge of back pain. Improve posture 703-768-2525 or visit 6-9 p.m. at Woodlawn & Pope- THURSDAY/AUG. 23 Meet the Junior Docents. 2-5 p.m. and related health. $40 for both www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Leighey House, 9000 Richmond Westlaw Training. 3-4 p.m. at at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 sessions, or $25 drop-in. Visit huntley-meadows. Highway. A rare opportunity to Alexandria Law Library, 520 King St., North Royal St., Alexandria.These www.532yoga.com. experience Frank Lloyd Wright’s Suite LL34, Alexandria. Designed for young historians, grades 4 and older, Pope-Leighey House by twilight. This those researchers who have some will be on hand to share highlights of TUESDAY/AUG. 21 tour is a chance to see one of experience with Westlaw, this the tavern and answer questions as MONDAY/AUG. 20 Ellis Island History. 1-3 p.m. at Wright’s houses illuminated against a seminar reviews basic legal research guests journey through the museum. Send a Kid to Camp Golf Classic. 9 Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 night sky, bring a new dimension and techniques and then builds on terms Great for families as children connect a.m. at The Piedmont Club, 14675 Shenandoah Road, Alexandria. Free. radiance to the typical tour and connectors advanced searching, with the building through their peer Vista Drive, Haymarket. Proceeds will Sponsored by Mount Vernon experience. Grab a drink, included in West Topics and Key Numbers, using tour guides as well as for adults provide opportunities for Alexandria Genealogical Society. Dr. Alan Traut, the price of the ticket, and take an filters, Copy with Reference, and looking for some inspiration. City Youth to attend summer camp. American University history informative and fun guided tour with explores features within KeyCite. Included in regular admission: $5 The Alexandria Police Youth Camp professor, will speak about plenty of time to take stunning Free. Email [email protected]. adults ($4 with AAA), $3 children offers a unique opportunity for the immigration through Ellis Island and photos. Visit Fall/Winter Vegetable Gardening. ages 5-12, and 4 and under are free. children of Alexandria to experience the Government’s effort to protect www.woodlawnpopeleighey.org. 7-8:30 p.m. at the Ellen Coolidge Call 703-746-4242 or visit the joys of the outdoors, the against the spread of infection by Book Buzz. 7-8:30 p.m. at Kate Waller Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary www.gadsbystavern.org. comradery of friendship, and the Immigrants. Visit Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen Road, Alexandria. Fall is a delightful Lyceum Concert. 3-4:30 p.m. at The fulfillment of learning new skills. www.mvgenealogy.org. St., Alexandria. Attention book time to garden, with cool autumn Lyceum, 201 South Washington St., Living just minutes from one of the Library Sit-In. At Kate Waller Barrett lovers: want the inside scoop on the days and waning pest populations. Alexandria. Soprano Nancy Scimone largest urban areas in America, the Branch Library, 717 Queen St., upcoming books for fall release? Learn inexpensive techniques to sings music from Spain, Italy, France Alexandria Police Youth Camp Alexandria. Celebrating the 79th Library staff will give a presentation extend the harvest and even how to and USA. Sponsored by Washington provides youth with the chance to Anniversary of the 1939 Library Sit- on the newest titles from Penguin, enjoy crops in the dead of winter. Metropolitan Philharmonic Summer visit a more rural setting. $99/player. In. One of the nation’s most little- Random House, and Macmillan. Free. Free. Call 703-228-6414 or Visit Series (Ulysses James, Director) in Call Ed Dougherty at 703-746-6697. known historical events involved Attendees will receive a free book mgnv.org. historic Old Town. Donations leadership from native Alexandrian, bag tote and excerpts of upcoming accepted at the door. Visit attorney Samuel W. Tucker, and five books. Visit alexlibraryva.org. www.wmpamusic.org. MONDAY-WEDNESDAY/AUG. 20-22 young African American men who FRIDAY/AUG. 24 Jazz at Meade. 4-6 p.m. at 322 N. Wildflower Hike and Sketch Class. demonstrated an act of civil Children’s Art Workshop. 1:30-3 Alfred St., Alexandria. Featuring the 10 a.m.-noon at Huntley Meadows disobedience at the Barrett Branch WEDNESDAY/AUG. 22 p.m. at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince Nasar Abadey Quartet to preserve the Park, 3701 Lockheed Blvd., after being denied library cards. Cool Yoga 2018. 6:30-7:30 p.m. at St., Alexandria. Join artists on the 12 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com lost (adj): 1. unable to find Entertainment the way. 2. not appreciated or understood. 3. no longer VARIETY owned or known Athenaeum staff for a hands-on art workshop. Explore techniques in STORE creating mixed-media collages and then create your own masterpiece. Recommended for children ages 5- Est. 1958 12, children must be accompanied by Adopt an adult. Free. Visit www.nvfaa.org. Teen Comic Book Club. 4-5 p.m. at James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library, Donate 2501 Commonwealth Ave., Alexandria. Teens will discuss great comic books and graphic novels. Volunteer Snacks provided. Free. Visit alexlibraryva.org. Mount Vernon Nights. 7:30 p.m. at Grist Mill Park, 4710 Mt. Vernon Volunteers needed for Memorial Highway. This series of free, public concerts features a adoption events, variety of musical performances Experience reflecting Fairfax County’s diversity, fostering, culture and community spirit. Bring a picnic dinner and a blanket and enjoy transportation, the Nostalgia one of Fairfax County’s special summer traditions. Visit adoption center of an old-time www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ caretaking and more. performances/mt-vernon-nights. Five & Dime Store SATURDAY/AUG. 25 Mount Vernon Flea Market. 8 a.m.- “If we don’t have it, 1 p.m. at 8717 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria. Flea Market will take you don’t need it.” place every fourth Saturday of the Andes to Romances month through September. Vendors will sell items such as: homemade Join the Alexandria Historical Society for an afternoon of authentic Andean Hollin Hall goods, lavender sachets, jewelry, melodies from the Latin-American repertoire and international song book of soap, antique and vintage items; Juan Cyrampoma and Ernest Bravo, performing as Andes to Romances. Us- Shopping Center books, CD’s and DVDs, comic books ing an array of traditional Andean and contemporary instruments, they and more. Refreshments will also be perform music that embodies the soul of the Andes while paying homage to 7902 Fort Hunt Rd., on sale. Hosted by the Mount Vernon love, hope, romance and their native land. Sunday, Aug. 26, 2 p.m. at Alex- Masonic Lodge No. 219. Rain or andria Historical Society, 201 S. Washington St., Alexandria. Visit Alexandria, VA 22308 shine. Visit www.facebook.com/ www.nvfaa.org. mountvernonfleamarket/. 703-765-4110 Summer Kayak Cleanups. 9 a.m.- noon at the Conservatory Center at This year, they will be celebrating Pat 202-262-0184. Visit [email protected] Four Mile Run Park, 4109 Mt. Vernon Troy, the organization’s founder. secure.metavivor.org/page/ lostdogandcatrescue.org Ave., Alexandria. The Four Mile Run Without Pat, there would be no contribute/swimforengie. Conservatory Foundation will deploy Ballyshaners. Without the Meet the Junior Docents. 2-5 p.m. its fleet of kayaks to collect litter Ballyshaners, there would be no at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 along the streambank of Four Mile parade. Visit www.ballyshaners.org. North Royal St., Alexandria.These Run. Volunteers will have access to a Container Workshop: Geometric young historians, grades 4 and older, water refill station, snacks, gloves, Garden Terrarium. 1-2:30 p.m. at will be on hand to share highlights of A Community Favorite trash grabbers and bags, and a Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green the tavern and answer questions as limited number of kayaks with life- Spring Road, Alexandria. Enjoy the guests journey through the museum. vests, but are asked to bring their outdoors inside by creating a Great for families as children connect own reusable water bottle, beautiful, hanging, geometric with the building through their peer Since 1904 sunscreen, bug spray, and water terrarium. Begonia enthusiast tour guides as well as for adults shoes. Participants can use their own Johanna Zinn provides information looking for some inspiration. as well. Visit www.fourmilerun.org/. on this versatile genus and teaches Included in regular admission: $5 Yappy Hour. 10 a.m.-noon at James you techniques for creating the adults ($4 with AAA), $3 children M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library, 2501 perfect terrarium. Modern, metal ages 5-12, and 4 and under are free. Commonwealth Ave., Alexandria. terrarium, plants, soil and care Call 703-746-4242 or visit Light refreshments for people and instructions provided. Ages 16-adult. www.gadsbystavern.org. dogs, and give away of free Register for program ($38, code 290 Andes to Romances. 2 p.m. at Alexandria Library frisbees for kids 384 7001) and supply fee ($25, code Alexandria Historical Society, 201 S. and dogs. Alexandria Animal Welfare 290 384 7002). Register online at Washington St., Alexandria. Join in League will join in with some of their www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ an afternoon of Andean melodies adoptable animals. Free. Visit parktakes or call 703-642-5173. from the Latin-American repertoire alexlibraryva.org. and international song book of Joan War of 1812 Walking Tour. 10 a.m.- Cyrampoma and Ernest Bravo, noon at Lee-Fendall House Museum SATURDAY-SUNDAY/AUG. 25-26 performing as Andes to Romances. & Garden, 614 Oronoco St., 33rd Annual Begonia Show and Using an array of traditional Andean Alexandria. A guided walking tour of Sale. Saturday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; and contemporary instruments, they people and places in Old Town and Sunday noon-3:30 p.m. at Green perform music that embodies the soul associated with the War of 1812 and Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring of the Andes while paying homage to the British occupation of Alexandria Road, Alexandria. Sponsored by the love, hope, romance and their native Since 1904, The Royal has been Old Town’s Favorite neighborhood in 1814. $10/advance; $15/door. Potomac branch of the American land. Visit www.nvfaa.org. Visit www.leefendallhouse.org. Begonia Society. Be tempted with Concert. 3-5 p.m. at The Lyceum, 201 restaurant. Award-winning menu includes prime rib, fresh seafood, roast Cool Off with Hand-Cranked Ice splashes of color and shape for S. Washington St., Alexandria. The Cream. 11 a.m.-noon at Historic homes and greenhouses that last long Washington Metropolitan chicken best burgers hand-carved roast turkey and salad bar. Huntley, 6918 Harrison Lane, after frosts have put outdoor gardens Philharmonic Association presents its Alexandria. Make and taste hand- to bed. The sale offers a wide variety weekly free summer chamber concert Serving Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner cranked ice cream as Huntley’s Harris of begonias, including subtropical series. This week’s concert features family may once have done. Discover species. Free admission. Visit violinist Benjamin Scott and pianist how the histories of ice cream and www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/green- Brad Clark playing the music of Full Buffet with Huntley followed a similar path from spring/begonia-show-and-sale/ Mendelssohn, Prokofiev, and Bartok. Save 50% elite luxury to family fare. A tour of 082518. Free. Visit www.wmpamusic.org. the ice well and the Historic Huntley Omelette Station House are included in the program. On second dinner entree $8 per person. Call 703-768-2525 or SUNDAY/AUG. 26 TUESDAY/AUG. 28 Saturday and visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Swim for Engie. 8 a.m. at Undulations. At Potomac Fiber Arts of equal or lesser value historic-huntley. Waynewood Pool, 1027 Dalebrook Gallery at Torpedo Factory Art Sunday Brunch when you mention this ad. Alexandria Irish Festival. 11 a.m.-7 Drive, Alexandria. Lap-swimmers of Center. Studio 29, 105 North Union p.m. at Waterfront Park, 1-A Prince all ages welcome to participate in St., Alexandria. Work exhibiting 7am-2pm Offer expires 9/30/18. Street in Old Town Alexandria. There swimathon in honor of Engie movement, swaying rhythms, or will be vendors, crafts, food, Mokhtar to raise money for breast other interpretations of undulation beverages, pipe bands, Irish Dance cancer research. Sponsored by will be solicited from fiber artists for 734 North St. Asaph Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 Schools and Irish entertainment. The Alexandria Masters Swimming and this themed show. Themed work will Festival is a fundraiser to support Alexandria West Rotary. $10 be eligible for recognition by the Alexandria’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. suggested donation. Contact jurors. Non-themed work may also be 703-548-1616 The Ballyshaners have organized and Madeline Muravchik at exhibited. Visit ALEXANDRIA’S NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT • SINCE 1904 RoyalRestaurantVA.com hosted the Parade for over 35 years. [email protected] or call www.Potomacfiberartsgallery.com. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 ❖ 13 Opinion Heartbreaking to Heart Warming

By Paul Krizek tor she is employed by at the airport), and workers State Delegate (D-44) to unionize so that they can receive a living wage and fair benefits. Until earlier this year, workers were very now and then I hear only paid $7.25 an hour causing employees to work Eabout a story that really incredibly long days to earn a livable wage. Isata was tugs at the heart strings working 16 hours a day, seven days a week, at the and reaffirms my faith in human- airport just to make ends meet. Finally, at the begin- ity. I want to share the story of ning of this year, the Washington Metropolitan Area one woman’s fight to get back Transit Authority (WMATA) mandated companies that her job of almost 20 years, allegedly for asking for a employ workers at the airport pay them $11.55 an $20 tip. Thankfully, caring people stepped up and hour. However, Isata was not receiving the full $11.55 made a difference in the life of this hard-working an hour due to the mutual understanding that the immigrant at Dulles Airport. Nevertheless, this is also difference would be made up in tips. Due to these a cautionary tale about how important and neces- conditions, there have been several worker strikes sary is excellent reporting, in this case by Theresa and negotiations to unionize over the past three years, Vargas at the Washington Post. and Isata has been a prominent advocate for union- The recent Aug. 1 Washington Post story of Isata ization. Jalloh is one of the American dream personified and According to union organizers, at least three other how that dream was shattered. immigrant women have been fired in recent months. Commentary Isata immigrated to the United Like Isata, they were apparently given no opportu- States in 1996 from war-torn Si- nity to defend themselves against accusations of erra Leone in search of a better wrongdoing. These firings of the most vulnerable life for herself and her family. She found that life among us are callous and completely counter to the here in Virginia, working almost 20 years at Dulles values of Virginia. In Virginia, we don’t tear apart Airport as a maintenance worker and wheelchair the life of a hard-working immigrant, we help them. attendant. Through her work, she was able to pro- We support individuals that come to America look- vide for her family in Sierra Leone, sending them ing for a better life and make the sacrifices to achieve money each month to cover their living expenses. that dream. This situation is a heart-breaking example However, that all changed last month when she was of why we need to protect the basic rights of work- abruptly fired from her job. ers. The fact that Huntleigh USA was able to sum- Isata has primarily worked two jobs, cleaning the marily rip these women’s lives apart is a stain on us airport at night and shepherding individuals through all. Yet, even in this dark moment, we have seen the the airport in wheelchairs during the day. These kindness we are all capable of. Hundreds of Wash- aren’t easy or glamorous jobs, but they allowed Isata ington Post readers responded with financial help and to provide for herself and critically, her family in encouraging letters of support. Many wrote to Sierra Leone who depends upon her contributions Huntleigh USA urging a change in their policies. each month. The reason Isata was fired after 20 years Union organizers from 32BJ SEIU, clergy and elected of hard work? She asked for a tip after pushing a leaders, and others held a rally for the fired women. customer in a wheelchair, which is prohibited ac- One of the women who was let go, found herself cording to the Post article. Now, the idea that asking unable to pay her rent and on the verge of eviction. for a tip is a fireable offense is bad enough, but Isata Her fellow co-workers banded together to pay her completely denied the charge. Despite her denial, rent, so she and her mother would not be turned out she was offered no opportunity to defend herself or on the street. And, just this week, Huntleigh USA for there to be any kind of proper review. Instead, found the common sense to reinstate Isata and allow 20 years of hard work and good will disappeared in her to continue to work hard at her American dream. an instant. “God bless America. God bless the people,” Isata told Upon closer inspection, it may be that her firing is the Washington Post in Vargas’ follow up article on not random at all. There has been a three-year fight Aug. 13. Indeed, we live in a world full of love and between her employer Huntleigh USA (the contrac- grace and it is important that we all reflect on that. In Memoriam

From Page 5 And when she picked me up, then I was just about her size. National Opera. I once depended on her feet to take me to the yard, Almost 25 years ago I wrote a simple rhyming Her arms to reassure me that this life is not so hard. And now, though I am walking on my own, I understand, poem for her (Mom liked her poetry to rhyme) that I still would slip and stumble were it not for my mom’s she tacked on her wall. I would like to share it with hand.” you here. Her remains were interred alongside my father’s “My Mom’s Hand at Arlington National Cemetery in May. Anyone wish- I haven’t always been so tall or had a stride so long, ing to honor Gene Ives’ memory is invited to make a I haven’t always fed myself or sung myself a song, And once I saw the rainbows only through my mother’s contribution to the American Heart Association in her eyes, name, and to remember her with love. Bulletin Board

THURSDAY/AUG. 16 Center, 2511 Parkers Lane, Mount Vernon. Each year, deer management THURSDAY/AUG. 23 Community Meeting. 6:30-8:30 p.m. is conducted in select Fairfax County Drinks and Deals. 5:30-7 p.m. at at South County Government Center, parks by the Fairfax County Police Cedar Knoll Restaurant, 9030 Lucia (Rooms 221A & B), 8350 Richmond Department with the Fairfax County Lane. Networking with gorgeous Highway, Alexandria. Community Park Authority and NOVA Parks. views of the Potomac River at Cedar meeting on Woodlawn Cultural Public meetings will be held to Knoll Restaurant. See this renovated Landscape National Register provide an overview of the Deer colonial inn and taste appetizers Nomination. Visit Management Program and answer from the award winning cuisine. Free www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ questions. Visit for Chamber members and their mountvernon/ for more. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ guests; $25 others. Visit Public Information Meeting. 7 p.m. mountvernon/deer-management- www.mtvernon-leechamber.org/ to at Mount Vernon Governmental program-public-information-meeting. register. 14 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Letter Progressing, But So Am I Best for This By KENNETH B. LOURIE Neighborhood “Slow progression” does not mean we are To the Editor: now progressing slowly. Quite the opposite in I’m an HOA board member of one of the fact. During this past Monday’s “Phoning It In” appointment when the three semi-amigos – me, many communities surrounding 8800 my wife Dina, and my oncologist – discussed/ Richmond Highway who are wholeheart- assessed my most recent CT scan results, a edly in favor of the proposed residential KLJPZPVU^HZTHKL[VÄNO[WV[LU[PHSJHUJLYÄYL development at that property. I represent ^P[O[YLH[TLU[ÄYL Clusters at Woodlawn HOA. We’re located In effect, we are doubling down, decreasing about a quarter-mile from 8800. my present every-seven-week infusion schedule back down to every three weeks and likewise I had a good chuckle at Ms. Betsy reducing my three-month CT scan interval to Martin’s testimony before the Planning two months. All of which changes my “man- Commission and her letter to the editor in ageable” life to one more cancer centric. Not this newspaper on Aug. 9. How easy it is all appealing but as the South Korean woman to daydream of all the lovely possible uses driving the white Cadillac told “Hawkeye” in a long-ago M*A*S*H episode: “That’s where the for this property — wide open green space, water is.” a canoe livery, a restaurant. If Ms. Martin And so we are returning to the scene of the has any of these developers lined up, then crime (three week intervals) so to speak, and I wish she would place them in contact hoping we can nip this tumor growth in the with the Sitnik family who owns this prop- bud thereby enabling yours truly to live longer and hopefully prosper (and live long enough as erty. well to see the new Star Trek series with Patrick Please keep in mind that Fairfax County Stewart returning as Jean Luc Picard). has done absolutely nothing with Pole I don’t want to be totally naive and presume Road Park, which includes 17 acres do- that since the same medication has worked for nated to the county by the Sitniks; nor does Ä]L`LHYZ[OLYL»ZUVYLHZVU[V[OPUR^P[OHSP[[SL tweaking, it can’t continue to work for another the county even want to purchase these Ä]L`LHYZ/V^L]LYT`VUJVSVNPZ[KPKZH`OL»Z eight acres in question. had patients where a similar approach worked The Sitniks, who have more than 60 [VZSV^Z[VW[OLNYV^[OHM[LYHU\UZWLJPÄLK years of roots in our community, have done period of stability like me) so to quote my late the right thing by cleaning up the prop- father: “The idea has merit.” erty after deciding not to renew leases with Ergo, the honeymoon is over. Now the hard part begins, again. One week not feeling well, their commercial tenants. Now opponents two weeks feeling pretty well. Then waiting for of the proposed development expect them scan results as if my life depended on it (duh!). to sit and wait for halcyon offers to be It’s nothing my family and I haven’t experi- delivered on unicorns so we can all live enced off and on going on nine and half years happily ever after. Perhaps these oppo- since my diagnosis/prognosis. Still, after the last Ä]L`LHYZVMYLSH[P]LJHSTZPUJL0^HZOVZWP[HS- nents are willing to pay for the property ized and began the “miracle” drug alimta), life taxes while we wait patiently for these has been normal-ish with infusion intervals wid- offers to pour in? ening and scan results indicating some initial Ms. Martin wonders why townhomes at shrinkage (“like a frightened turtle), followed by 8800 would revitalize the community. ULHYS`Ä]L`LHYZVM¸Z[HISL¹*;ZJHUZ But so what else is new in the cancer-patient Simple — there isn’t an upscale townhome world? (That’s a rhetorical question.) community on the west side of Richmond Cancer returning with or without a ven- Highway within three miles. There are no geance to patients who perhaps had expected recent townhome communities on Pole otherwise. Cancer is not exactly a disease you Road, as Ms. Martin claimed, but others forget you had or one that you presume you’ll along Sacramento Drive and Jeff Todd Way never see or worry about again. Nothing could be further from the truth. The truth being: you have improved my neighborhood. We need are scarred for life – sort of. You become a life- more communities like these to draw in long member of the biggest club in the world. higher-end retail and dining to a neigh- A club, as Grouch Marx might joke, you’d borhood — in and around the Woodlawn rather not join, especially if they’d have you as CBC — ready to really pop in a good way, a member. “Cancer Sucks” as a meme is the most insin- with Arcadia’s farms and forthcoming JLYLMVYTVMÅH[[LY`¶MVYHYLHZVU!WLVWSLKPL plans for Woodlawn Plantation, the Na- Cancer leaves a wake and in its path devastation tional Museum of the U.S. Army, and more. and destruction. Its swath cuts across gener- I live in this neighborhood. The 8800 ations, cultures, demographics, ethnic back- property is my neighbor. This is, perhaps, NYV\UKZHUKNLUKLYPKLU[PÄJH[PVUZ If there’s any fear we share collectively it is a the last chance we will have to see it im- diagnosis of cancer. Living with it and trying not proved. to die from it has been the bane of my exis- If the opponents — who don’t even live tence – and millions more, many of whom have in this neighborhood — prevail, the own- already succumbed to its ravages. Continuing ers will be forced to take in commercial research into the cause and effect has given me tenants again, a great opportunity for en- years my oncologist told me I probably didn’t have. (“13 months to two years” was my original vironmental clean-up will be lost, and prognosis.) Mount Vernon’s southwestern portion of How lucky am I. (Not a rhetorical question.) Richmond Highway will continue to limp Now I face another hurdle. Or rather, more along with its shabby appearance. My of the same hurdle I’ve managed to jump over neighbors and I are all hoping the Plan- for nine-plus years. Whether the 10 percent-ish tumor growth is the real deal or merely just a ning Commission and Board of Supervi- blip on the cancer radar, only time and treat- sors will do what is best for this neighbor- ment will tell. This is the uncertainty all of us hood and approve this development. cancer patients endure. It’s not ideal, but ideal left the building on Feb. 27, 2009. Brian Leclair Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for Director, The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. Clusters at Woodlawn HOA www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 ❖ 15 16 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 16-22, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com