Alexandria Pet Gazette Gazette Packet Page, 8 25 Cents Serving Alexandria for over 200 years • A Connection Newspaper February 27, 2020

Photo by Michael Lee Pope/The Gazette Adoptable Friedrich he quintessential T “mama’s boy,” adopt- able Friedrich is the sweetest and most affectionate pup! He’s our foster through DC PAWS Rescue, and his mom was rescued in November as a we’re hoping he gets adopted VERY pregnant German Short- soon so his forever family can haired Pointer from a high-kill enjoy this fun puppy phase. shelter in SC. She gave birth to Friedrich gets along with every- Del. Cia Price (D-95) appears at a press conference to announce a bill creating an a litter of six (named for the one - even cats! - and he’s a joy advisory panel to suggest legislative districts to the General Assembly, a proposal von Trapp children from The to have in our home. He’s 12 that may end up torpedoing efforts to pass a constitutional amendment creating a Sound of Music) on November weeks old and weighs about 17 bipartisan commission to draw maps. 27, and all pups but Friedrich lbs. We suspect his dad is a beagle have been adopted. At just 9 or hound and that he will be weeks old, his leg got caught about 50 lbs full grown. Please Mapmaking Politics in the wire playpen and he frac- apply at www.dcpawsrescue.org/ tured it... and he keeps getting adoption-info if you can give this members of the Legislative Black on the issue and won majorities passed over by adopters be- sweet pup a home so we can fos- Legislative Black Caucus are worried a proposed in the House and Senate. cause of it! He’s healing well ter another! amendment might enshrine racial Now the politics have shifted, and the rescue is paying for all Katherine Viar Caucus leads gerrymandering into the Virginia and members of the Legislative necessary follow up care, so Alexandria Constitution. Black Caucus are leading the fight effort to under- “We have great concerns about to defeat the amendment. They having African-American repre- argue that the language of the mine redistrict- sentation in the room for redis- amendment says membership of tricting,” said Del. Lamont Bagby the mapmaking commission ing amendment. (D-74), chairman of the Legisla- should “consider” race rather than By Michael Lee Pope tive Black Caucus, when the requiring racial diversity. House amendment was first proposed last leadership may end the General The Gazette year. “This doesn’t guarantee that.” Assembly session this year with- Now Democrats are in a bind. out even bringing the amendment irginia has a horrible They overlooked concerns of the to the floor for a vote, opting in- history with racial ger- Legislative Black Caucus last year, stead to create an advisory panel Vrymandering. It started striking a deal with Republicans to that would make recommenda- with the ratification of support a constitutional amend- tions lawmakers would be free to the Constitution, an effort led by ment that creates a bi-partisan ignore. Virginians who wanted to count commission to draw legislative “It’s disgraceful. These folks ran slaves as three-fifths of a person districts. Then they campaigned See Mapmaking, Page 5 so representation in the south

wouldn’t suffer because so many Alexandria, VA 22314 VA Alexandria,

of its inhabitants were non-voting St., King 1604 To:

ted

enslaved people. It continued all Reques Service Address

the way to 2011, when the Repub- material. Time-sensitive

lican leaders engaged in a scheme Postmaster:

Tulsi Rose checks herself herself out. Tulsi came into of packing black voters into House Attention

my life almost a year ago thanks to 4Paws Rescue districts to dilute their influence #482 Permit

Alexandria, VA Alexandria,

and brings me joy every day! elsewhere, a plan the United PAID

– Carol Siegel, Alexandria Postage U.S. States Supreme Court later deter- STD PRSRT mined was unconstitutional. Now www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 ❖ 1 Babs Beckwith Specializing in Old Town Properties for 25+ Years

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

117 S. Lee St. 224 S. Lee St. 209 S. St Asaph St. 313 Wilkes St.

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

709 S. Lee St. 22 Wolfe St. 311 Queen St. 52 Wolfe St. 208 Gibbon St.

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

727 S. Lee St. 700 S. Lee St. 329 N. St Asaph St. 62 Wolfe St. 208 S. Lee St.

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

228 N. Union St. 307 Wolfe St. 36 Alexander St. 711 S. Union St. 214 Wolfe St. 639 S. St Asaph St. 502 S. Fayette St. 504 Cameron St.

If you are considering selling or buying a new home in 2020, call Babs and let her put her expertise to work for you!

703.627.5421 | [email protected] www.BabsBeckwith.com 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 | 703.549.9292 Equal Housing Opportunity

2 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v February 27-March 4, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News

Cox retires after 28 years ‘A Legacy for Generations’ guiding Historic Preservation. By Jeanne Theismann new projects are compatible Gazette Packet “I am so fortunate with the existing historic archi- to have found my tecture. l Cox, the City of “Al was the guy who could al- Alexandria’s His calling here in ways get you to ‘yes’,” said Jody A toric Preservation Manor, of Bittersweet catering Manager, was cel- Alexandria. But it’s and Vola’s Dockside Grill. “He ebrated by a crowd of family, wanted you to succeed and that friends and city officials Feb. 7 time for me to let is not always the case for local at the Old Dominion Boat Club businesses.” as he retires following 28 years go and let the next Added City Manager Mark overseeing architecture design Jinks: “Al has had more impact policies across the city. generation take on the city than just historic “My wife Kathy and I moved over.” preservation.” here 32 years ago because of Cox oversaw projects from the architecture,” said Cox, an — Historic Preservation the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, architect who studied historic Manager Al Cox on Potomac Yard, Jones Point Park preservation in the U.S. and his retirement and the new Old Dominion Europe. “But we stayed because Boat Club. He hired famed ar- of the people.” then-City Manager Vola Lawson chitect Michael Graves to de- Originally from Texas, Cox created a City Architect position sign the Beatley Central Library. accepted a two-year contract that allowed Cox to stay on. Cox used the occasion to an- position with the city to help “In losing Al, we are losing a sig- nounce his successor – Bill with design guidelines. When nificant amount of institutional Conkey will become the city’s that contract was completed, knowledge and history,” said Historic Preservation Architect Mayor Justin Wilson. “The testa- when Cox formerly steps down Bill Conkey, left, is ment of anyone is the legacy they Feb. 28. congratulated by Al leave behind, and Al Cox is leav- “I have always had a passion Cox on his appoint- ing a legacy for generations of for historic preservation and ment as the city’s Alexandrians into the future.” design,” Cox said. “I am so for- next Historic Preser- While Cox does not design build- tunate to have found my call- vation Architect Feb. ings himself, he facilitates the pro- ing here in Alexandria. But it’s 7 at the Old Domin- cess for architects, land use attor- time for me to let go and let ion Boat Club. neys and developers so that any the next generation take over.”

Photo by Laura Mae Sudder

Photo by Maria Porth

“Gaby” proudly wears her new blue coat. Oh hello, “GoodBoy”

Photo by Laura Mae Sudder

Photos by Laura Mae Sudder

“Tina” enjoys the com- forts of Old Town’s Waterfront Park sitting on the park chair, “Sweetie“ says, Look into “Have a nice flight, my eyes... you are getting “BellyCat” hurry home!” me a treat, you are getting Tina belongs to me a treat! Natasha Edwards www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 ❖ 3 VIRGINIA MAYORS LIKE MIKE Endorsed by Mayors Allison Silberberg, Kelly Burk, Derrick Wood, Kenny Alexander and Paul Fraim

MAYORS KNOW MIKE WILL GET IT DONE VOTE FOR MIKE BLOOMBERG More than 100 mayors have endorsed Mike Bloomberg for President because they know he can beat Trump, fix healthcare, ON TUESDAY, MARCH 3 fight climate change, increase gun safety and lead our country with integrity. Mike will get it done.

JOIN THESE MAYORS IN SUPPORTING MIKE BLOOMBERG FOR PRESIDENT

William Bell, Former Mayor of Birmingham, AL Neisen Kasdin, Former Mayor of Beach, FL Dean DePiero, Former Mayor of Parma, OH Mike Dow, Former Mayor of Mobile, AL Philip Levine, Former Mayor of Miami Beach, FL Jeff Fusco, Former Mayor of Akron, OH Ethan Berkowitz, Mayor of Anchorage, AK Bob Buckhorn, Former Mayor of Tampa, FL Muhammad Robbalaa, Mayor of Fort Coffee, OK Robert Uribe, Mayor of Douglas, AZ Sandra Freedman, Former Mayor of Tampa, FL Kathy Taylor, Former Mayor of Tulsa, OK Dan Coody, Former Mayor of Fayetteville, AR Keith James, Mayor of West Palm Beach, FL Dwan Walker, Mayor of Aliquippa, PA Frank Scott Jr, Mayor of Little Rock, AR Daniel Dietch, Mayor of Surfside, FL Bob McMahon, Mayor of Media, PA Patrick Hays, Former Mayor of North Little Rock, AR Michael Davey, Mayor of Key Biscayne, FL , Former Mayor of , PA Shirley Washington, Mayor of Pine Bluff, AR Hardie Davis Jr, Mayor of Augusta, GA Joseph Brady, Mayor of Vandling, PA Marco McClendon, Mayor of West Memphis, AR Karen Freeman-Wilson, Former Mayor of Gary, IN Rohan Hepkins, Mayor of Yeadon, PA Veronica Smith Creer, Mayor of El Dorado, AR , Mayor of Louisville, KY Lornna Soto, Mayor of Canóvanas, PR Harry Brown, Mayor of Stephens, AR Adrian Perkins, Mayor of Shreveport, LA Rosachely Rivera, Mayor of Gurabo, PR Daryell Howell, Mayor of Strong, AR David Rollins, Mayor of Augusta, ME Jesús Edgardo Colón, Mayor of Orocovis, PR Mark Stodola, Former Mayor of Little Rock, AR George Campbell, Former Mayor of Portland, ME Steve Benjamin, Mayor of Columbia, SC Bill Hodge, Mayor of Calexico, CA Sam Zaitlin, Former Mayor of Saco, ME Jon Kinsey, Former Mayor of Chattanooga, TN Mary Casillas Salas, Mayor of Chula Vista, CA Victoria Jackson-Stanley, Mayor of Cambridge, MD Jim Strickland, Mayor of Memphis, TN Marnie Mendoza, Mayor of Colfax, CA Tracey Furman, Mayor of Kensington, MD Karl Dean, Former Mayor of Nashville, TN Aja Brown, Mayor of Compton, CA Malinda Miles, Mayor of Mount Rainier, MD Mickii Carter, Former Mayor of Johnson City, TN Tim McGallian, Mayor of Concord, CA Petrella Robinson, Mayor of North Brentwood, MD John Cook, Former Mayor of El Paso, TX Kuldip Thusu, Mayor of Dinuba, CA Jeffrey Slavin, Mayor of Somerset, MD , Mayor of , TX Efrain Silva, Mayor of El Centro, CA Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Former Mayor of , MD Bill White, Former Mayor of Houston, TX Lily Mei, Mayor of Fremont, CA Jim Berryman, Former Mayor of Adrian, MI Lucy Johnson, Former Mayor of Kyle, TX Serge Dedina, Mayor of Imperial Beach, CA Karen Weaver, Former Mayor of Flint, MI Andy Beerman, Mayor of Park City, UT Racquel Vasquez, Mayor of Lemon Grove, CA Byron Nolen, Former Mayor of Inkster, MI Ralph Becker, Former Mayor of , UT John Marchand, Mayor of Livermore, CA Virg Bernero, Former Mayor of Lansing, MI Peter Corroon, Former Mayor of Salt Lake County, UT , Former Mayor of , CA Kelly Garrett, Mayor of Lathrup Village, MI Allison Silberberg, Former Mayor of Alexandria, VA Rob Rennie, Former Mayor of Los Gatos, CA Linda Short, Mayor of Mayersville, MS Kelly Burk, Mayor of Leesburg, VA Rob Schroder, Mayor of Martinez, CA Percy L. Bland, Mayor of Meridian, MS Derrick Wood, Mayor of Dumfries, VA Yxstian Gutierrez, Mayor of Moreno Valley, CA Jason Shelton, Mayor of Tupelo, MS Kenny Alexander, Mayor of Norfolk, VA Matt Rinn, Mayor of Pleasant Hill, CA John Moor, Mayor of Asbury Park, NJ Paul Fraim, Former Mayor of Norfolk, VA Rusty Bailey, Mayor of Riverside, CA Janice Kovach, Mayor of Clinton, NJ Mark Asmundson, Former Mayor of Bellingham, WA London Breed, Mayor of , CA Collette Kennedy, Mayor of Keyport, NJ Victoria Woodards, Mayor of Tacoma, WA , Mayor of San Jose, CA André Sayegh, Mayor of Paterson, NJ Brian Ebersole, Former Mayor of Tacoma, WA Pauline Russo Cutter, Mayor of San Leandro, CA , Former Mayor of Trenton, NJ , Mayor of Washington, D.C. Joseph Goethals, Mayor of San Mateo, CA Adrian Mapp, Mayor of Plainfield, NJ Steve Williams, Mayor of Huntington, WV , Mayor of Stockton, CA Ken Miyagishima, Mayor of Las Cruces, NM Eddie Neal, Mayor of Lemoore, CA Alan Webber, Mayor of Santa Fe, NM Dave Potter, Mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA , Mayor of Albany, NY Jesus Silva, Former Mayor of Fullerton, CA Lovely Warren, Mayor of Rochester, NY Heyward Robinson, Former Mayor of Menlo Park, CA David Dinkins, Former Mayor of City, NY Mickie Winkler, Former Mayor of Menlo Park, CA Gary McCarthy, Mayor of Schenectady, NY , Former Mayor of , CO , Mayor of Yonkers, NY Bill Finch, Former Mayor of Bridgeport, CT , Mayor of Charlotte, NC Toni Harp, Former Mayor of New Haven, CT Don Hardy, Mayor of Kinston, NC Don Slesnick, Former Mayor of Coral Gables, FL Nancy McFarlane, Former Mayor of Raleigh, NC Vote Mike Bloomberg for President Melissa McKinlay, Former Mayor of Palm Beach County, FL Charles Meeker, Former Mayor of Raleigh, NC Sign up to volunteer at mikebloomberg.com Enid Weisman, Mayor of Aventura, FL Dan Horrigan, Mayor of Akron, OH See how Mike and the mayors will get it Stephanie Bruder, Mayor of Bay Harbor Islands, FL Luke Feeney, Mayor of Chillicothe, OH done at MayorsForMike.com Manny Diaz, Former Mayor of Miami, FL Michael Coleman, Former Mayor of Columbus, OH Scott Brook, Mayor of Coral Springs, FL Kathy Catazaro-Perry, Mayor of Massillon, OH Paid for by Mike Bloomberg 2020

4 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v February 27-March 4, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News would be required, a stipulation that’s not in the language of the amendment. Price announced her bill at a press conference the first week of session. “We wanted to Mapmaking Politics make sure that the drawing pro- cess of the maps that would pro- From Page 1 of Virginia 2021. tect communities of color and on the issue,” said Sen. Mark The bipartisan compromise was communities of interest are in the Obenshain (R-26). “They told struck in the closing days of the amendment.” people across the commonwealth 2019 General Assembly session, of Virginia that they supported the an agreement that was negotiated SUPPORTERS OF THE amend- Constitutional amendment. They in a secret closed-door conference ment are still trying to salvage the got elected on the basis of support- committee. Those negotiations process. They argue enabling leg- ing it, and if they turn their backs took place out of the glare of pub- islation for the amendment can on their constituents there’s going lic scrutiny, and the lack of trans- solve some of the flaws. to be a price to pay.” parency didn’t help the process. Critics of the amendment say it’s One provision that emerged out of simply too flawed a proposal to be THE POLITICS of redistricting that conference committee was a enshrined into the Constitution. have been a bugaboo in Virginia feature that was not in the House They worry about racial diversity politics since the creation of the version or the Senate version, the on the commission, and they are House of Burgesses in 1619, when ability of the Republican-led Vir- concerned Republicans might ex- 22 members represented four cit- ginia Supreme Court to step in and ploit the rules to have the GOP- ies and five slave plantations. Two make a final determination. dominated Supreme Court draw centuries later, the technology of “I can’t trust judges to be fair on maps to benefit Republicans. For mapmaking can fine tune the art the basis of the facts and the law now, Democrats are leaving the of packing and cracking — gerry- anymore,” says Del. Mark Levine door open to considering the mandering districts with scientific (D-45). “Those days, if they ever amendment, but it’s telling that it precision. That’s one of the reasons existed, they’re certainly gone has not yet come to the House groups like Virginia 2021 was cre- now.” Levine and other critics of floor for a vote. Democratic lead- ated, to take that power out of the the amendment are supporting a ership has until the end of the ses- hands of the party in power and bill introduced by Del. Cia Price sion to make that happen, but instead put it into a 16-member (D-95) that would create an advi- House leaders don’t seem to be in commission composed of eight sory panel to suggest legislative much of a hurry to make that hap- lawmakers and eight citizens. districts to the General Assembly. pen. “It would be the most compre- Its basic structure is almost iden- “I don’t know if it’s on the cal- hensive redistricting reform legis- tical to the commission outlined endar,” said House Majority Whip lation ever passed through a state in the amendment, but there’s an Alfonso Lopez (D-49) when asked legislature in this country,” says important distinction. Racial di- if the House would vote on the Brian Cannon, executive director versity on the panel of mapmakers amendment.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 ❖ 5 Opinion Alexandria We Both Deserve $15. Gazette Packet www.AlexandriaGazette.com

@AlexGazette Why Don’t Our Senators Think So? An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. By Nick Riviere and Unfortunately, our Virginia state Senators Every person who works hard and plays by Published by Tony Hedgepeth seem to disagree. the rules in Virginia deserves equal respect. We Local Media Connection LLC Earlier this month, the Virginia House of deserve living wages, paid sick days, afford- 1606 King Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314 ike millions of Virginians, we work Delegates passed a bill to raise the minimum able health care, a secure retirement, and the Free digital edition delivered to hard. As home care providers, we wage to $15 for all workers by 2025. They rec- right to join together in a union. your email box. Go to Lwork every day to help older adults ognized that working families are falling be- While the cost of living varies in different connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe and people with disabilities live in- hind no matter how hard we work, and that parts of Virginia, we all feel the same pain when NEWS DEPARTMENT: dependently at home and in the community. we need to build an economy that works for we struggle to pay rent, buy groceries and pay [email protected] By keeping people out of costly nursing homes everyone. utilities. Housing costs are skyrocketing in both Editor & Publisher and institutions, we save taxpayers money and The Senate, however, passed a bill which Richmond and Northern Virginia. Health care Mary Kimm [email protected] deliver quality care. would create different minimum wages in dif- costs, food costs and transportation costs are @MaryKimm We do the same work but in different parts ferent regions, even for workers who do the all increasing. We need a statewide $15 mini- Jean Card of Virginia – Fairfax County and City of Rich- exact same jobs like us. Their bill also forces mum wage to ensure that no one gets left be- Production Editor [email protected] mond – and have different backgrounds. One workers to wait even longer to get a raise. hind. Jeanne Theismann of us is a 21-year-old assisting young adults If the Senate bill becomes law, people work- To our Senators, we ask: why should a home [email protected] with developmental disabilities and one of us ing in Fairfax won’t make $15 until 2027, while care worker in Richmond or Roanoke make less @TheismannMedia is a 61-year-old Army veteran helping his fel- those in Richmond won’t make $15 until 2032. than a home care worker in Fairfax when we Janet Barnett, John Bordner, Mark Mogle low vets who suffer from PTSD. Our fellow homecare providers and others make the same contribution to Virginia’s fami- Contributing Photographers However, we both love what we do. It’s a working in Hampton Roads won’t make $15 lies? We elected Democratic majorities to the [email protected] blessing to be able to help others live with dig- until 2034. House and Senate because they promised to Shirley Ruhe Contributing Photographer and Writer nity. Delaying the minimum wage increase for 14 deliver a brighter future for working Virgin- [email protected] We both deserve to make at least $15 per years, and paying different wages for the same ians. It’s time that our Senators delivered on Eden Brown, Michael Pope, Hope Nelson hour and live with dignity ourselves. work, is not only unfair; it’s unacceptable. that promise. Contributing Writer [email protected]

Assault Weapons Ban – Getting It Right ADVERTISING: For advertising information [email protected] By Sen. Scott Surovell assault weapon features described in the ban historic. 703-778-9431 bill are also on other types of weapons, there- Debbie Funk Disply Advertising/National Sales ast week the Senate Judiciary Commit- fore likely creating confusion for law enforce- Many Other Bills Advance 703-778-9444 Ltee considered a House of Delegates’ bill ment officers and civilians and making it un- With three weeks left, we have two dozen [email protected] to regulate assault rifles and other fire- clear exactly which guns were banned. They major bills on education, transportation, en- Tara Lloyd Display Advertising, 703-740-7128 arm attachments. I have always supported were clear they would not support passage this ergy, environment, labor, criminal justice re- [email protected] stronger regulation of assault rifles. session. form, equity and a $110 billion budget to con- David Griffin I lived through the 2002 D.C. sniper attacks The bill was also not endorsed or a priority sider. The legislature has sent at least 15 of Marketing Assistant 703-778-9431 while crouching in my car getting gas to avoid for Moms Demand Action, Giffords: Courage my bills to Gov. Ralph Northam, including my [email protected] being shot. In 2016, three police officers in- to Fight Gun Violence, or Everytown for Gun legislation prohibiting holding a phone while Classified & Employment cluding one of my constituents were shot with Safety. driving and a bill banning “conversion therapy.” Advertising 703-778-9431 an AR-15. Officer Ashley Guindon was killed I joined three Democratic Senators on the My legislation to tighten up Virginia’s loose on her first day on the job. I do not support Judiciary Committee to continue the bill to the predatory lending laws awaits the Governor’s Publisher Jerry Vernon civilian ownership of weapons of war that are 2021 session and refer it to the Crime Com- signature and predatory lending establish- 703-549-0004 unnecessary for hunting or self-protection. mission so experts can refine and clarify the ments, like those dotting the U.S. 1 Corridor, [email protected] Experts estimate that there are five to ten bill. That will also give us time to hold fuller must stop charging 120-400 percent interest Art/Design: Laurence Foong, John Heinly, million assault weapons in the U.S., including public hearings over the summer or fall. We rates on six-month loans and will likely pack Ali Khaligh at least 100,000 in Virginia. The proposed expect the Crime Commission to fully analyze up and leave. Both the House and Senate bud- Production Manager: Geovani Flores House bill felonized the sale or transfer of as- and clarify the bill to carry out our intent. I gets included my initiative to conduct a study Editor Emeritus: sault weapons, certain magazines and silenc- am wholly committed to seeing this through to extend the Blue Line Metro to Prince Will- Mary Anne Weber ers, and had no buyback program for assault and we did not “kill the assault weapons bill.” iam County. rifles. It felonized the possession of certain We have made significant progress on fire- The Senate also approved over $1.2 billion CIRCULATION Circulation Manager: magazines and silencers after two years. We arm violence prevention. We have passed (1) in new funding for K-12, a three percent pay Ann Oliver repeatedly advised the House that the votes universal background checks, (2) reinstating raise for teachers, 200 new school counselors, [email protected] did not exist in the Senate, but the House chose Virginia’s “one-gun-a-month” purchase limit, $81 million for subsidized preschool and $96 A Connection Newspaper to send the bill over by a one vote margin with (3) emergency risk protection or “red flag” million for free community college for some The Alexandria Gazette Packet is distributed weekly three House Democrats voting “no” and one orders, (4) authorizing local governments to disadvantaged students. We voted to create to selected homes in the City of Alexandria. Any owners or occupants of premises that do not not voting. regulate guns in public buildings, parks and Medicaid-funded adult dental coverage, a five wish to receive the paper can notify the publisher In our chamber, multiple Senators were con- events, (5) allowing firearm forfeiture during percent pay increase for home health care work- by telephone at 703-778-9426 or by email to [email protected], and the cerned that the House bill did not “grandfa- protective order proceedings, (6) banned bump ers and increased mental health care funding. distributor will be notified to discontinue service. ther” guns owned by existing owners, specific stocks, and (7) increased penalties for child We proposed the largest contribution ever to the legal disposal rules, and questioned the ab- access. Legislation to broaden the crimes that Water Quality Improvement Fund. A joint House- sence of an explicit, funded gun buyback pro- surrender firearms rights to misdemeanor Senate committee will now resolve the differ- gram which could turn a ban into a constitu- stalking and sexual battery is pending along ences in the two budget bills. tional taking requiring government compen- with my voluntary Do Not Sell List legislation. This is an historic session. I hope you will email sation. They also pointed out that many of the Passage of these bills is unprecedented and your comments to me at [email protected].

Re-scheduled Town Hall with Sen. Adam Ebbin, Del. Paul Krizek and Sen. Scott Surovell Follow the Money EVENT on Saturday, March 14, Noon to 2 p.m. at Walt Whitman Middle School. By Sen. Adam Ebbin more attention to the budget pro- estimated $142 billion two-year weeks, these committees have met cess. As a new member of the Fi- budget. I sit on three Finance Sub- regularly to prune members’ With every bill having been put nance and Appropriations Com- committees — Health and Human amendments, make adjustments through its initial paces, the Gen- mittee, I’m excited by the assign- Resources, General Government, to Governor Northam’s proposed eral Assembly has now turned ment of helping craft Virginia’s and Public Safety. For the last two See Follow, Page 7 6 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Letters Difficult and Time Consuming Dear Editor, visit the neighborhood. This is not, after all, As a resident of Alexandria living near the some designated car-free zone, but in prac- Old Town, I can say from experience that tice it might as well be due to the lack of nothing has been more difficult and time parking lots and parking spaces. consuming than finding parking spaces near Personally, I have consciously put off or my home. Rather than adding ease and con- cancelled Old Town plans several times be- venience, owning or operating a car in this cause the parking crisis made visiting a busi- area is becoming genuinely burdensome. ness or meeting up with friends impossible The problem of parking lot and parking with my own vehicle.. space scarcity is compounded by construc- I believe our city planners should consider tion, development waivers, and even bike building a public parking deck or similar lanes, which collectively make the neigh- facility somewhere in the neighborhood in borhood a practical anti-car area, at times order to alleviate the impossibly high de- even inaccessible to vehicles. mand on our limited parking situation. The Old Town is not Manhattan; it is still I’m not alone in these conclusions - con- at its heart an old, traditional neighborhood, versations with nearly every one of my a place where people live and others visit neighbors yield the same complaints and during the weekend to enjoy a good time. calls for a solution. We need action on this, It is unrealistic and unsustainable to expect and we need it now. those that frequent or live here to purchase Raad Alshammari a bike or scooter just to be able to reliably Alexandria Follow the Money

From Page 6 strong economic bounceback from the 2009 recession, our budgets have remained fairly budget, and allocate additional funding. conservative — focusing on shoring up re- Governor Northam’s budget, which was serves. While financial security is critical, sent to us in mid-December, emphasized a our limited resources have often left work- number of my priorities including educa- tion, housing, and healthcare. Despite a See Follow the Money, Page 9

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 ❖ 7 Pet Gazette

Photographs courtesy of AWLA

A daily “kong” filled with mouth-watering chow makes the days go Cookie the cat follows the little red ball in “clicker training” with quickly for Sugar at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. volunteer Sandy Garlick at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. Shelter Staff Jumping Through Hoops to Keep Animals Entertained

By Barbara S. Moffet his hind feet and touch the ball on stuffed with rabbits’ favorite chow, the stick; he was quickly adopted. hay. And as part of the surprise of nimal Welfare League of Originally used with marine ani- the day, shelter visitors might see Alexan-dria (AWLA) mals, clicker training has become a twine “clothesline” hanging Avolunteer Sandy Garlick a staple at the AWLA shelter: all across the rabbits’ pens. Clothes- sat on the floor of a cat dog and cat volunteers learn the pins placed along the line hold enclosure holding a metal stick technique, and so do many of juicy bites of vegetables and fruits, with a little red ball at the end. A those who work with other ani- tempting bunnies to angle for long-haired, gray and white cat mals. Besides strengthening posi- them through the day. “The first named Nicky, normally a bit skit- tive behaviors, clicker training can time we hung a veggie line over tish around people, reached a paw help improve an animal’s stay by Phoebe the rabbit’s enclosure she up to touch the ball, prompting fighting boredom, decreasing was so delighted,” Keif recalled. Garlick to press on a clicking de- stress, increasing confidence, and “She had been with us for months, vice and give Nicky a food treat. teaching new tricks and behaviors and you could see all of her stress Then, they did it all over again. that help animals get adopted melt away with each new veggie Who says cats can’t be trained? more quickly. she nibbled.” Nicky was just one of dozens of “After the training, dogs, for in- The shelter’s next challenge, shelter animals who have learned stance, start to feel better in their Maier says, is to introduce clicker to respond to the combination of kennels, and a dog comfortable in training for the resident hamsters, Sugar proves to be up to the task of making a peanut- clicking and treats or toys, find- his kennel is often more comfort- turtles, rats and mice. “Since butter-coated Frisbee sparkle. ing new ways to bond with people. able meeting people,” Maier said. turtles are more visually oriented, “Clicker training is one of the best “With cats that might be excitable, gram goes far beyond clicker train- Another canine favorite is a we’ll probably use a light instead ways to build trust between people it’s a way to help them calm down ing. Every day, dogs, cats and Frisbee, coated inside with peanut of a clicker,” she said. “We hope to and animals,” said AWLA Volun- and show them more appropriate other animals receive two rounds butter, mashed pumpkin or teach our turtles to swim through teer Program Coordinator Brenda behavior.” of activities that stimulate them squeezable cheese, dotted with hoops.” Maier. “They’re learning together To initiate training, a volunteer both physically and mentally, says treats and frozen, that volunteers The Animal Welfare League of and having fun at the same time.” will wait for a dog to move to the AWLA Manager of Volunteers and hang on the outside of each ken- Alexandria is a local 501(c)(3) Volunteer Garlick got interested front of his kennel, stand quietly Community Events Echo Keif, who nel, primed for dogs to lick. organization. Operating the Vola in clicker-training cats when she and keep all four paws on the floor. developed the program. For dogs’ For cats, the everyday treat is Lawson Animal Shelter, which is witnessed a cat named Coco, who In response, the volunteer will daily enrichment, shelter volunteers “catnip soup,” a set of toys that Alexandria’s only open-access ani- had been a shelter resident for al- click once and then offer a treat, dispense kongs – rubber toys that volunteers have infused with cat- mal shelter, the AWLA touches the most a year, learn to do high-fives often a small piece of hot dog. challenge the animals to retrieve the nip. Later in the day cats can look lives of more than 6,000 animals and walk through a hoop. One day Training sessions can mean five canned dog food inside — and then forward to puzzles such as “snuffle every year, including strays, lost during adoption hours, Garlick minutes of repeating this activity later, they get another enrichment mats,” fabric mats covered with pets, local wildlife, rescued ani- showed Coco’s tricks to a visitor, until the dog understands which activity that rotates daily. fringe that hides treats (or pre- mals and animals surrendered by and he was so impressed, he behaviors are being rewarded. Wednesday mornings mean scription treats for cats with diet their owners. The AWLA is com- adopted the talented feline. “Coco Volunteers first learn the skill in lucky volunteers get to distribute restrictions), ready for foraging. mitted to addressing animal actually trained me!” Garlick re- workshops with expert trainers, the popular busy-boxes full of Even the shelter’s smaller resi- homelessness, promoting animal called. She attended a shelter ses- where they “train” each other, treats. Some of the dogs are ex- dents, such as rabbits and guinea welfare and serving as an educa- sion to learn the technique and clicking for desired behaviors and perts at opening their presents. pigs, get their own custom-made tional resource for the community. went on to teach a small gray rab- dispensing “human” treats. “It’s like Christmas morning ev- diversions. Rabbits receive “hay More information can be found at bit named Takeoff to stand up on The shelter’s enrichment pro- ery Wednesday,” Keif said. tubes” daily – toilet paper rolls AlexandriaAnimals.org. 8 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Opinion Follow the Money

From Page 7 Commonwealth’s prosperity, we recom- ate proposed to see the Governor’s proposed a longstanding priority of mine. ing-class Virginians behind. The Senate bud- mend significant new funds for our pre-K- budget raise teachers’ pay an additional 1% Northern Virginia has an outstanding mix get capitalizes on the Commonwealth’s di- 12 education system. The proposed budget beyond the Governor’s proposed 3% raise. of public, private and nonprofit education verse economy and recent revenue growth goes a long way toward leveling the scho- This is on top of the 3% raise to last years’ providers, including Northern Virginia Fam- with investments focused on the people of lastic playing field. budget. Though this still trails the national ily Services, Child and Family Networks in Virginia, while still investing significantly Virginia’s teacher pay lags 20% behind the average, it is an important step forward. Alexandria, and United Community in in our “Rainy Day Fund.” national average, and due to reduced spend- We are also working to increase the num- Fairfax County. But these organizations While the Commonwealth’s economy has ing on education, teachers often have to dip ber of students attending pre-school, which alone cannot meet the incredible need, and grown and diversified, and our top univer- into their own pockets to give students the is one of the best indicators of life-long suc- many areas of Virginia do not have the same sities have climbed in the rankings, many supplies they need to learn. To attract and cess. The Senate budget offers $81.4 mil- abundance of active nonprofits. have not felt that success. In order to en- retain the best teachers, we need to pay lion to expand Virginia’s Pre-School Initia- sure all Virginians can share in the competitive wages, which is why the Sen- tive for at-risk three- and four-year-olds — See Follow the Money, Page 14

Join us for this funny and affectionate comic romp that takes us behind the scenes of the iconic story of “Gone with the Wind.” SHOW DATES: FEB. 29 – MAR. 21, 2020

Little Theatre of Alexandria 600 Wolfe Street • 703-683-0496 www.thelittletheatre.com

From Akita To Zwergspitz Whole Dogz Has It All!

• INDOOR/OUTDOOR Large Daycare Floors • All Suite Boarding - No Metal Crates • Training: Private, During Daycare, Group Classes • Organic Grooming • Healthiest Food & Supplements To Keep Your Pup Happy!

CHECK US OUT! SEE FOR YOURSELF! wholedogz.com 703.751.DOGZ (3649) wholedogz.com/store 4748 Eisenhower Avenue [email protected] Alexandria, VA 22304 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 ❖ 9 Entertainment Handroll Sushi, Cocktails Take Over King Street Corner By Hope Nelson Gazette Packet

t’s a well-known corner in Old Town Alexandria, home Ito many a variety of themes and pubs over the years.

Scotland Yard took up residence Photos by Josefa Gonzales for decades at 728 King St., and then came Eamonn’s fish-and- chips shop with the beloved PX speakeasy on the top floor. Now, the corner has changed hands again, as well as cuisines. Gone are the British pub APPETITE staples, and in their place arrive a passel of options The shrimp tempura roll is one of the highlights of The Upstairs, the King’s Ransom offers a posh bar with with a Japanese flair. And upstairs, Handover. innovative cocktails. while the lush cocktails remain, the hush-hush speakeasy nature long, narrow area, Kim said. IF YOU GO ally appreciate if you put the time “We’d been working with Jon at has departed. Call it building upon From avocado to bulgogi, the into something,” said beverage People’s Drug and his talent is just Handover’s menu is small but The Handover and King’s Ransom, 728 director Jon Schott. And Schott mind-blowing what he can do with the previous tenants; call it strik- King St. ing out in a different direction. mighty. The options, chosen by Hours for the Handover: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and his team are putting a great the flavors, the artistic element of Call it the Handover and King’s Chef Melvin Urrutia, cover the daily. deal of time into their cocktail pro- it, so we gave him a lot of free gamut of familiar favorites and Hours for the King’s Ransom: 5 p.m.- gram. range to come up with the pro- Ransom, whatever you do. midnight Sunday-Thursday; 5 p.m.-1 “Growing up in the area, this has further-flung items, hewing to a a.m. Friday-Saturday. The cocktail menu offers some- gram for upstairs,” Kim said. always been an iconic corner. It’s minimalist theme rather than a Try this: “If you want the inside scoop, thing for everyone, from tiki-style And upstairs or downstairs, kitchen-sink approach. I’d strongly recommend the shrimp drinks to a reformatted classic whether touting a handroll or a right in the heart of King Street,” tempura (roll), but in the soy said co-owner Teddy Kim. “… We “You might have a spicy tuna wrapper instead. That gives it a Manhattan. The King’s Ransom glass or both, both concepts aim loved the building, loved location, roll, which is not the one that’s all creaminess that’s unique to the soy also brought in a Toki highball ma- to shine. “I feel like this is one of so we brought in an architect, filled up with sriracha mayonnaise paper,” said Teddy Kim. chine that creates filtered spar- those cases where that classic Old measured the space, and started and all that,” said co-owner Ian pied by Todd Thrasher’s PX. Gone kling water that’s three times as Town long skinny townhouse feel to play around with concepts.” McGrath. Rather, the roll sports are the days of secret passwords carbonated as champagne, Schott can come into its own and give It wasn’t long before the concept tuna, sesame chili oil and Japanese and limited customers; in its place says. The combination of an inno- each of these guys a stage that they became clear – a handroll sushi spice blend – with no fillers. is a more accessible space that es- vative menu and such tricks of the can show off their talents in,” restaurant, faster than a tradi- The same goes for the oshinko chews formality but maintains trade as that highball machine McGrath said. tional sit-down experience, but not roll, featuring pickled daikon rad- high standards. leads to some interesting results. quite fast-casual, either. ish: “It’s sitting there on its own “I’ve just found that it was my For instance, “if you want a Hope Nelson is the author of “Classic with a little bit of chiffonade shiso vodka soda, we have one, but it’s Restaurants of Alexandria” and owns “We thought (the handroll con- experience at People’s Drug and the Kitchen Recessionista blog, located cept) was a perfect fit for down- leaf,” McGrath said. with Old Town Alexandria that it’s purple and the bubbles are flying at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. stairs, the dimensions of the And then there’s King’s Ransom, a great city and town to be able to through it, and it has lychee in it,” Email her any time at space,” taking advantage of the the upstairs space formerly occu- put things out because people re- Schott said. [email protected]. Calendar

Submit entertainment announce- Saturdays 12-9 p.m., and Sundays ments at 12-6 p.m. The gallery is free, open to www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- the public, and accessible. Visit endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. www.DelRayArtisans.org/exhibits. Photos/artwork encouraged. Architecture in Fiber. Now thru March 15. At Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery, Torpedo Factory, Studio 29, ONGOING 105 North Union Street, Alexandria. Life Drawing Sessions. Now thru Here, in Alexandria, we are Dec. 9. At Del Ray Artisans, 2704 surrounded by beautiful and exciting Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. buildings, bridges, parks, and Looking for a chance to hone your monuments. Both our local and figure drawing skills? Del Ray worldwide architecture serve as Artisans offers a range of open life inspiration for the pieces in this drawing sessions for just this show. Themed work will be eligible purpose. Just drop in for the session for recognition by the jurors. Non- and bring your supplies to draw or themed work will also be exhibited. paint the live models. Fee ranges Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily from $8-$12. All skill levels are and weekends, and 10:30 a.m. to 9 welcome. Visit DelRayArtisans.org/ p.m. on the second Thursday of each life-drawing month. Tell Me a Story Art Exhibit. March 6-29. Opening reception THURSDAY/FEB. 27 Friday, March 6 from 7-9 p.m. At Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Materials Playgroup Thursdays. Vernon Ave., Alexandria. Have you 10-11:30 a.m. At Durants Art Center, ever looked at a piece of art and your 1605 Cameron Street, Alexandria. imagination immediately starts to Dates: Thursdays Feb 27; March 5, wander? Narrative art tells a story, The St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place Saturday, March 7 in Old Town Alexandria. 12, 19, 26; and April 2. During each either as a moment in an ongoing 1.5 hour session, kids and their story or as a sequence of events caregivers will get the chance to unfolding over time. A picture is St. Patrick’s Day Parade explore at least 6 different centers, worth a thousand words; Tell Me a Saturday/March 7, 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Parade starts at King and Alfred Streets and ends at Lee and Cameron Streets in from clay to painting to sensory, and Story will take you on an imaginative Old Town Alexandria. Presented by the Ballyshaners, a nonprofit group that aims to promote and preserve Irish heritage. more. They will have the opportunity journey. Gallery hours are: Thursdays More than 2,000 participants will march in this year’s parade, including the Notre Dame Alumni Band, dog rescue groups, to build, experiment, and play with 12-6 p.m., Fridays 12-9 p.m., pipe and drum bands, historical re-enactors, Shriners and Kena cars, and Irish dancers. Visit www.ballyshaners.org See Calendar, Page 11 10 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment

From Page 10 open-ended, repurposed objects. Visit the website: https:// www.upcyclecrc.org/materials- playgroup.html SCSC & RSVP. 1:30-2:30 p.m. At Gerry Hyland Government Center, 8350 Richmond Highway, Alexandria. Shepherd’s Center of South County, SCSC and Retired Seniors Volunteer Program, RSVP will host a seminar on volunteer opportunities in South County. Join us to learn about fun, convenient and meaningful ways to contribute to your community. Free. Visit the website: https:// www.scscva.org/ Family Movie Night. 6:30 p.m. At Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road, Alexandria. Wonder tells the heartwarming story of August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who enters the fifth grade, going to elementary school for the first time. Rated PG. Struggles of African-American Soldiers. 7 p.m. At The Athenaeum, 201 Prince Street, Alexandria. In A Fun Dog Show will be held Saturday, March 7 at Old celebration of Black History Month, Town’s Market Square. the Proprietor of Manumission Tour Company, John Chapman, will lead a conversation on the struggles of Fun Dog Show African-American soldiers as they Saturday/March, 11 a.m. At Old Town’s Market Square, Alexandria. The AWLA The Opal Music Studio faculty gather for their showcase fought for their rights to be buried in invites the area’s spirited pups to don their favorite costumes on-stage for the titles concert. the soldier’s cemetery. When the of “Most St. Paddy’s Spirit,” “Best Human/Canine Look-Alike” and “Most Creative Alexandria National Cemetery was begun in 1862, only white soldiers Costume.” The Fun Dog Show precedes the Ballyshaners’ St. Patrick’s Day parade, Opal Faculty Showcase were eligible to be buried there, even an annual event that brings thousands of spectators to Old Town Alexandria. March though it was yards away from participants will meet at the intersection of King and St. Asaph streets at 12 p.m. Sunday/March 1, 6:30 p.m. At The Lyceum: Alexandria’s History Museum, 201 L’Ouverture Hospital, a Civil War to start the parade. This year’s Dog Show will be hosted by McEnearney Realtor S. Washington Street, Alexandria. Come hear the teachers—all professional musi- hospital for African-American Bobby Mahoney. Registration is open at AlexandriaAnimals.org/DogShow2020 and cians—play together! This free concert will be a community celebration of music, soldiers. By the end of the Civil War, will also be available on-site on March 7 for $30. For information about the St. featuring Opal Music Studio faculty playing a diverse set of musical styles from there were over 200 graves of U.S. Patrick’s Day Parade, visit ballyshaners.org. classical to opera to jazz. Free. Visit opalmusicstudio.com Colored Troops that had integrated into the cemetery. Brooke Sydnor Curran, Founder and premiere of Le’oria, the City of Music migration, butterfly numbers, care about. $39 per person (plus a CAC-GALA. 7-10 p.m. At Old Dominion CEO of RunningBrooke, who will by NOVA student Nathan Pereda. invasive plant spread, and insect $30 supply fee). Register Boat Club, 200 Strand Street, receive The Champion for Children Visit the website: blogs.nvcc.edu/ populations are just some examples www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Alexandria. The 11th Annual CAC Award for her dedication to the almusic/ of data collected by an ecologist and parktakes (code 70D.892E) Green GALA benefits the Center for empowerment and wellness of citizen-scientist cyber community. Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173. Alexandria’s Children, the City’s one Alexandria’s children and families. FRIDAY/FEB. 28 Karen Rexrode will introduce you to The Great Escape in Washington, safe place for the prevention, Tickets are $175/person. Visit the Beau Soir Ensemble Concert. 7 some applications that will interest D.C. 3:30 p.m. At Burke Branch investigation and treatment of child website: http://bit.ly/34nQlsJ For p.m. At The Athenaeum, 201 Prince you as a gardener and a nature lover. Library, 4701 Seminary Road, abuse. Its Learn & PlayGroups for more information, go to Street, Alexandria. Tickets $15. $18 per person. Register online at Alexandria. Learn about the Capital children ages 0-5 years utilizes a www.centerforalexandriaschildren.org Welcome the Beau Soir Ensemble to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ City under the institution of slavery curriculum designed to circumvent NOVA Children’s Concert. 7:30-9:30 the Athenaeum! Known for their parktakes (code C4C.7A2A) or call and the people who tried to escape abuse by helping parents, children p.m. At The Rachel M. Schlesinger exciting performance style and Green Spring Gardens at 703-642- this system. Presented by National and caregivers build connections Concert Hall, 4915 East Campus diverse programming, their concert 5173. Park Service Ranger Kenya Finley in within the community. The Center Road, Alexandria. The NOVA will feature “Serenade” by Ludwig Leap Day Walk. 10-11:30 a.m. At honor of Black History Month. supports abused children on their Alexandria Music Department Beethoven in honor of his 250th Huntley Meadows Park, 3701 Virginia Black History Month path to healing, while promoting presents its free Annual Children’s birthday. This piece was originally Lockheed Blvd., Alexandra. Celebrate Association (VaBHMA) Gala. 6-9 strong, stable families. It serves Concert featuring the NOVA band written for flute, violin and viola, but the day that only comes around every p.m. At Hilton Alexandria Mark more than 1,000 children and and students from local elementary has been expertly transcribed to work four years. This Leap Day, go on a Center Hotel, Alexandria. The families annually. Honorees include and middle schools. Program for flute, viola and harp. The Beau guided tour of the forest and wetland keynote speaker is Dr. Yusef Salaam Mary Hale, Inova Health System selections will include: March of the Soir Ensemble’ will also play a Trio habitats at Huntley Meadows Park. of the Central Park Five, also known FACT Director, who will receive The Resistance from Star Wars: The Force Sonate by J.S. Bach that was Learn about common winter wildlife as the Exonerated Five. Guests of Outstanding Dedication to Awakens by John Williams, transcribed for their trio by Alex and where to find critters in the park Honor include: Alexandria’s Children Award for her Excursions for Trumpet and Band by Jacobsen of the National Symphony at this time of year. It’s designed for ❖ Ms. Tina Wyatt: Great-Great commitment to the safety and well- Bruce Broughton, Concerto for Orchestra, a local premiere by Miguel participants age 4 to adult, and the Grandniece of Harriet Tubman; being of Alexandria’s children and Clarinet by Artie Shaw and the world del Aguila, and add some Irish music cost is $8 per person. Call 703-768- ❖ Ms. Jeri Lacks Whye: Granddaughter to lead the way for St. Patrick’s day. 2525 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ of Henrietta Lacks; parks/huntley-meadows. ❖ Ms. Adia Cummings: Daughter of the SATURDAY/FEB. 29 Rethinking Rufus. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. late Honorable Congressman Elijah Winter Pruning for Woody Plants. At The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington Cummings; 10 - 11:30 a.m. At American St., Alexandria. A lecture with ❖ Ms. Monique Goldring: Mother of Horticultural Society River Farm, Howard University’s Dr. Thomas Baby Phoenix Da’Vine. 7931 E. Boulevard Drive, Alexandria. Foster. “Rethinking Rufus: Sexual During the gala, they will identify the Winter is the best time to prune Violations of Enslaved Men” is the winners of the Annual Children’s many trees and shrubs. Come for first study of sexual violence against Writing Contest, the James Farmer hands-on training on the how, when, enslaved men. Scholars have Scholarship and other scholarships. and why to prune hedges, multi-stem extensively documented the They will surprise one couple from shrubs, small trees, and large widespread sexual exploitation and the audience to rededicate their branches. The results will be abuse suffered by enslaved women, marriage vows, (officiated by a local healthier and fuller growth, better with comparatively little attention Pastor) and then perform the African flowers and fruit, and attractive paid to the stories of men. However, American wedding tradition of landscaping. Bring your own tools, a careful reading of extant sources “Jumping the Broom.” Visit the and remember to dress for the reveals that sexual assault of website at www.vabhma.com weather! Entire class is held enslaved men also occurred outdoors. This class is offered by systematically and in a wide variety MARCH 1-30 Extension Master Gardeners. Free. of forms, including physical assault, Woodlawn Needlework Show. 10 The Alexandria All City High School Art Exhibition hosted Advance registration required by Feb. sexual coercion, and other intimate a.m. to 4 p.m. At Woodlawn & Pope- by the Convergence Arts Initiative returns thru March 28. 26 at mgnv.org. Space is limited. Call violations. Tickets can be purchased Leighey House, 9000 Richmond 703-228-6414 or email at https://shop.alexandriava.gov/. Highway, Alexandria. The Woodlawn [email protected]. Floral Design Workshop: Heart’s Needlework Show and Sale runs for Student Art Exhibit Citizen Science for Gardeners and Desire. 1:30-3 p.m. At Green Spring the entire month of March, and is Now thru March 28, at the Gallery at Convergence, 1801 N. Quaker Lane, Al- Nature Lovers. 10-11 a.m. At Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road, open every day except Tuesdays. exandria. The Alexandria All City High School Art Exhibition hosted by the Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Alexandria./(16-Adult) In the month Come see hundreds of amazing Convergence Arts Initiative returns now thru March 28 for its fifth year. 2020’s Spring Road, Alexandria./ (16-Adult) of February, we celebrate love in all needlework pieces, daily experience will feature over 90 Alexandria high school students representing six Explore the concept of data its splendid forms. Certified floral demonstrations, special exhibits, and high schools including public, private, and independent spanning over 10 differ- gathering. Gardeners, naturalists and designer Betty Ann Galway walks you more. Cost is $15. Visit the website: ent mediums of art. Returning for 2020’s collaborative event are students from entomologists are recording the through a floral project that you are www.woodlawnpopeleighey.org/ Bishop Ireton, Episcopal High School, T.C. Williams, St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes world around them through web- sure to love. Keep this arrangement annualneedleworkshow based social media applications. Bird for yourself or give it to someone you School, Commonwealth Academy, and The Howard Gardner School. See Calendar, Page 12 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 ❖ 11 Entertainment

From Page 11 SUNDAY/MARCH 1 Nature Talk on Peregrine Falcons. 2 p.m. At Mount Vernon Government Center, 2511 Parkers Lane, Alexandria. Sponsored by Friends of Dyke Marsh, join biologist Rolf Gubler who will discuss restoring Peregrine Falcons to some of their native habitats. Peregrines perch and nest on cliffs, skyscrapers, bridges and other tall structures. In this program, biologists bring at-risk Peregrine Falcon chicks from eastern Virginia bridge nest sites (where fledging is often difficult) to Virginia’s mountains, once part of their historic range. Visit the website: www.fodm.org A British Invasion Concert. 3 p.m. At Carl Sandburg Middle School, 8428 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria. Featuring the National Concert Band of America. To be directed by Principal Conductor Adrian Holton, the concert will begin with British Brave Spirits Theatre at the Lab at Convergence presents composer Gustav Holst’s “First Suite in E Flat” which has occupied a “The King’s Shadow” now through April 19. legendary position in wind band repertoire for over 110 years. “The British Eighth” by Zo Elliott, which is “The King’s Shadow” dedicated to General Bernard Now thru April 19, 8 p.m. At The Lab at Convergence, 1819 N. Quaker Lane, Montgomery and the Eighth Army Alexandria. In this season, Shakespeare’s Histories: “The King’s Shadow” runs Janu- Arts on the Horizon presents “By the Seashore” from after a triumphant sweep across ary 2nd - April 19th, 2020; “Richard the Second” runs January 2 - April 18, 2020; March 20 to April 4. Africa in 1942, remains one of the “Henry the Fourth, Part 1” runs January 30 - April 18, 2020; “Henry the Fourth, most popular military marches on Part 2” runs now thru April 19, 2020; and “Henry the Fifth” runs March 12 - April both sides of . Other 19, 2020. These plays follow the troubled passing of the English crown from the “By the Seashore” selections include “Song of Hope” by philosopher King Richard II, to the conqueror King Henry IV, to his rogue son, Prince March 20 to April 4, Wednesdays thru Saturdays, 10 a.m.; 10:30 a.m.; 11:30 a.m. Peter Meechan, “Irish Tune from Hal. With his father’s deeds looming over him, Hal indulges in a reckless adoles- At the Convergence Main Building, 1801 N. Quaker Lane, Alexandria. “By the Sea- County Derry” by Australian cence that tarnishes his reputation. But when the time comes to rule, Hal must take shore” takes us on a magical journey to a place children love to visit — the beach! composer Percy Aldridge Grainger control of how history will remember him, unite his country, and become the leg- Young audience members are invited to explore all the amazing things we find on and “Four Scottish Dances” by endary King Henry V. Tickets are $35. Contact [email protected] the shore, in the ocean, and in the sky; from birds and fish, to sand and water, and Malcolm Arnold, trans. John Paynter. everything in-between. Using an imaginative mix of puppetry, movement, and Clarinet Quintet Concert. 3-4 p.m. or www.bravespiritstheatre.com. sound, this sensory-filled production is specifically designed for babies and young At Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria. Branch Library, 717 Queen Street, is a celebration of love set to the toddlers. Tickets are $8. Discounts for groups and active duty military families are Come enjoy a variety of musical Alexandria. Microgreens – You’ve music of the Go-Go’s. Based on Sir available. Purchase tickets here: http://www.artsonthehorizon.org/by-the-sea- styles performed by likely seen them, but what makes Philip Sidney’s Arcadia, the royal shore-2020 or call 571-549-1270. a group of five clarinets, returning after them so good for you? Join us to family risks losing their “beat” and a well-attended performance at learn their many benefits, and some must journey to discover the key to Sherwood in June. The players are all simple ways to grow these delicious, their realm’s survival. Like in most former members of Washington, D.C. nutritious and inexpensive baby musicals, it may have been in them military bands (including one of the plants and sprouts in your own the whole time. With hits like, “We librarians). Free. Email: Jeff Snavely home. Plus, we provide supplies for Got The Beat,” “Mad About You,” - Sherwood Regional Library at you to plant your own container. So “Vacation,” and “Our Lips are [email protected]. come prepared to get a bit dirty Sealed,” you’ll be dancing along in Baroque Music Concert. 5-6 p.m. At while you make your own your seat. Tickets $30/$40. For Franconia United Methodist Church, microgreen garden in class. This tickets, visit https:// 6037 Franconia Road, event is offered by Extension Master www.monumentaltheatre.org/shows- Alexandria.Join FUMC in bringing Gardeners. Free. Advance registration events 17th Century Baroque music to life requested at mgnv.org. Call 703-228- with a free concert by Charm City 6414 or email [email protected]. FRIDAY/MARCH 6 Baroque. Since 2008, CCB has been Preserving African American bringing 17th century music to life MARCH 4-25 Historic Places. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through the use of period Award-Winning Photos Displayed. At The Alexandria History Museum instruments and historical At Huntley Meadows, 3701 Lockheed at the Lyceum, Alexandria. Cost is performance techniques. Free. Visit Blvd., Alexandria. $60 for conference. Building on the the website: http:// The Audubon Society of Northern success of past programs focused on franconiaumc.org Virginia will display award-winning advocating for African American Opal Faculty Showcase. 6:30 p.m. At photographs from the National historic resources, including schools, The Lyceum: Alexandria’s History Audubon Society’s 2019 photo cemeteries and churches, this one- Museum, 201 S. Washington Street, contest in an exhibition at Huntley day conference will provide updates Alexandria. Come hear the Opal Meadows Park this winter. It’s a on African American historic sites in Music Studio teachers — all perfect fit, as this year’s grand prize- the state, provide networking professional musicians — play winning photograph was shot at opportunities, and offer information together. This free concert will be a Huntley Meadows. Local amateur on advocacy, documentation and community celebration of music, photographer Kathrin Swoboda took funding to help build capacity and featuring Opal Music Studio faculty top honors for her photograph of a strengthen organizations preserving playing a diverse set of musical styles red-winged blackbird that appeared African American historic sites in the from classical to opera to jazz. Free. to be blowing smoke rings as the state. Visit opalmusicstudio.com rising sun backlit the vapor that The Thirteen performs Mystic. 2020 Presidential Straw Poll and formed while the bird sang out on a 7:30 p.m. At Virginia Theological Craft Cider Tasting Party. 7:30 - cold day. There will be an opening Seminary, Immanuel Chapel, 3737 9:30 p.m. At Lost Boy Cider 317 reception on Sunday, March 8, from Seminary Road, Alexandria. The Hooffs Run Dr, Alexandria. Tickets 1 to 3 p.m. Call 703-768-2525 or Thirteen, under the direction of are $45 in advance, $50 at the Door, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ Artistic Director Matthew Robertson, Alexandria Young Dems $35. Food huntley-meadows. explores humanity’s search for the and Beverages and Ample Parking divine across time and space in their Included.l THURSDAY/MARCH 5 upcoming concert Mystic. Mystic is Yacht Haven Garden Club Meets. organized in a series of vignettes. It TUESDAY/MARCH 3 9:30 a.m. At the Mount Vernon Yacht begins with the medieval melodies of AARP Fun Brunch. 11:30 a.m. to 2 Club at 4818 Tarpon Lane, Hildegard von Bingen then enters the p.m. At Paradiso Restaurant, 6124 Alexandria. The program will be on mystical cathedrals of the post-war Franconia Road, Alexandria. Meet, native plants, Amping up the Garden, Europe with the works of Estonian greet, and eat lunch with the AARP by Louis Ratchford, Plant Specialist. composer Arvo. Tickets may be Fun Bunch. Meet new people, make Contact [email protected] Visitors purchased at new friends, connect with neighbors, are welcome. www.TheThirteenChoir.org. Tickets and enjoy lunch together. No will be available at the door of the program, no seminar, just casual fun MARCH 5-23 concert, if the concert is not sold out. with friends and neighbors. Call “Head Over Heels.” 8 p.m. At Ainslie Tickets are $35, $30 if purchased in 877-926-8300. Arts Center | 3900 West Braddock advance. Discounts are available at Microgreens. 7-8:30 p.m. At Barrett Road, Alexandria. “Head Over Heels” www.TheThirteenChoir.org. 12 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 ❖ 13 Useless Is As Opinion Useless Doesn’t Have To Do Follow the Money By KENNETH B. LOURIE From Page 9 It began years ago when technology enabled many public bathrooms to change to hands-free. While pre-K education and K-12 educa- Other than the obvious hands-on responsibilities, tion are both critical, in order to train and many of the other elements no longer required any prepare the workforce of the 21st century, touching. Be it the paper-towel dispenser, the hand we need a pipeline to higher education for dryer, the hot and cold/on and off functions in the lower-income Virginians. We also need to ZPURZHUKVMJV\YZL[OL\YPUHSHUK[VPSL[Å\ZOPUN functions. All providing a convenience never ensure that higher education is training the before possible. Other than an automatic entry/exit next generation for high demand jobs of the function for the bathroom door, and one as well future. To create that pipeline, the Senate on the inside for the stalls themselves, using many budget provides $49.3 million the second public bathrooms has become much less involved, year for a new “Get Skilled, Get a Job, Give shall we say, than ever before. And it has not stopped there. It has gone public in a very big way. Back” initiative, covering tuition, fees, and +YP]PUNZWLJPÄJHSS`[OYV\NO[VSSZ[OH[PZ books for up to 24,000 students with a fam- Thanks to EZ-Pass, tolls or rather interacting with ily income less than 200% of the federal them by having to hand money over to a “toll poverty limit enrolled in coursework that collector,” (or even to stop and toss money into will lead them into high demand job fields a basket) has nearly been eliminated. Due to a device (transponder) attached to my licence plate, like health care, information technology, as me and my car approach the toll booth, I simply and skilled trades. go about my normal driving business with nary a As a renter living on the Yellow and Blue worry in the world. I steer into the dedicated EZ- Lines, the issue of affordable housing in our Pass lane at a bit less than the posted speed, and region is an ever-present concern of mine ding!, as I drive through the toll booth, the toll is paid. No fuss, no muss, no window roll-down and and of many of our neighbors. The issue no scrambling for change or digging for dollars. continues to strain our region, and I’m glad What’s done is done so long as the yellow light the proposed budget addresses this reality. illuminates and “paid” appears. (Although if what’s The stock of committed and market afford- done isn’t done, you’ll soon receive a paper bill in able housing in Northern Virginia has [OLTHPSH[[OLHKKYLZZVUÄSL steadily decreased over the last ten years Metro, our local public conveyor, also provides a hands-free or very nearly hands-free experience. as our population continues to climb. If you have a plastic “Metro card” linked into their The Virginia Housing Trust Fund, a rela- system, all you need do as you enter the turnstyle tively new program in Virginia, is finally is tap your card and go. No more standing in line beginning to receive necessary funding. This at the “Fare”/”Add Fare” kiosks to load your card year the Senate’s proposed budget finally with money to start or end your journey. As with your EZ-Pass, once you sign up and link your takes a bold step in addressing housing de- Metro card to a credit/debit card, you are “In Like velopment by proposing $46 million over Flint,” as some of us from a certain generation the two-year biennium for the Fund. might say. Henceforth, your card is automatically I am glad that a number of amendments \WKH[LK[VHS^H`ZWYV]PKLZ\MÄJPLU[KVSSHYZMVY[OPZ I offered are included in the Senate bud- trip and any subsequent trips to make sense. Now imagine if I had a “smart phone.” How get. Among them are funding for nonprofit many more functions/people-free interactions organizations that provide immigration le- might I enjoy with a tap, a scan or a wave? Unfor- gal and social services to low-income im- tunately, I have what my wife, Dina calls a “stupid migrant victims of crime, including victims WOVUL¹;OH[»ZHÅPWWOVUL^P[OUVPU[LYUL[HJJLZZ of domestic violence, sexual assault, human As such, I am cut off from an evolving world. A trafficking, and child abuse. This funding world in which I’ll likely not have to interact with anybody or reach into my pocket for anything will support Ayuda — a legal and social resembling money. All I’ll have to reach for is my service nonprofit that served over 1,000 “smart phone.” I’ve seen its functionality at the air- northern Virginians last year. port in lieu of a paper ticket, on Amtrak, at concert My request to fund additional wage theft venues and of course sports venues. It seems to investigators in the Department of Labor help speed up the entry process. 0KVU»[YLHSS`KVU»[^HU[[VIL[OLSHZ[ÅPW and Industry, currently woefully under- phone-holding man standing. But neither do I staffed led to the Senate budget funding a want to get into a life-accident while negotiating 10 additional investigators — there are cur- the learning curve. At the moment, the road ahead rently only four to cover the entire state. seems full of twists and turns with more curves The Senate also agreed to my proposal than I can possibly imagine. How do I negoti- ate something I can’t see? Moreover, how do I to include one-time funding for the Turn- negotiate the road less traveled, by me? Where will ing Point Suffragist Memorial — an educa- I draw the experience necessary to acclimate to tional monument planned to be completed these ever-changing signposts? I mean, the words in 2020 on the original site of the infamous may be familiar, but some of the context may be Occoquan Workhouse. The workhouse was off putting and counterintuitive, to me. I’m not a complete Bozo. I have partially inte- the site of the sequestration and torture of grated into this new world. I have had insurance suffragettes, who sacrificed their station and and car payments automatically debited from my safety to fight for the right to vote. bank account for years. I have some over-the- The budget includes $55 million to fund counter medicines, supplements and a variety of Alexandria’s Combined Sewer Overflow cat-related care and feeding products automatical- System overhaul. This will ensure that ly delivered to my home. However, sometimes I feel like a pinball (and I’m no wizard) without the ratepayers in Alexandria will suffer less fi- bells and whistles banging around trying to stay nancial impact as the $400 million project on top of what product is debit/paid and when. to see that all of the city’s wastewater is Now that’s a service I could use: an automated properly treated progresses. weekly reminder of what’s happening when. And While politicians often espouse their sup- the beauty of it, I wouldn’t need any new devices. I use what I always use: my home computer. Turn port for any number of programs: If you it on, click the email, open, read and then close. want to know someone’s priorities, follow Even Bozo the clown could do that. the money. I look forward to proving Demo- Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for crats support for the priorities we ran on in The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. the 2019 elections.

14 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com SPECIAL SAVINGS FOR YOUR TOYOTA

2/29/20.

WELCOME TO ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA’S

PERSONALIZED CAR CARE EXPERIENCE 2/29//20.

2/29/20.

2/29/20. 2/29/20.

2/29/20.

2/29/20.

2/29/20.

ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA

2/29/20.

2/29/20.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ February 27 - March 4, 2020 ❖ 15 McEnearney Associates has always had one motto in mind... not to be the biggest, but the best. This year marks our 40th year in Alexandria, and we are celebrating our investment in helping to build our town into the thriving community it is today. To learn more about our Associates and our firm, visitwww.WeAreAlexandria.com #WeAreAlexandria

OPEN SUN 3/1, 1-4

Rosemont Park | $1,375,000 Alexandria City | $1,650,000 Virginia Village | $688,000 Prominent Alexandria artist designed and expanded Spectacular 5-bedroom home with top-of-the-line Grab your keys & checkbook! Just listed, this charming this sweet house. Sun-splashed kitchen with vaulted designer finishes. Open floor plan with floor-to-ceiling 2-bedroom, 2 bath, 3-level townhome, circa 1939, is ceilings and breakfast area, 5 bedrooms and 4 baths. windows that provide an abundance of light and views tucked in an enclave of 83 brick & stone north Old Town Expansive private garden, hardscape patio and cool of the beautiful landscaping. High ceilings, gorgeous residences offering an Old English village vibe. Deep shed/studio. Walk to Metro. HayesWoodHomes.com stone fireplace, finished lower level, and 2-car garage. garden with off-street parking. 1314 Michigan Ave. Gordon Wood 703.447.6138 Lauren Bishop 202.361.5079 Ann Duff 703.965.8700 Chris Hayes 703.944.7737 www.laurenbishophomes.com www.AnnDuff.com

Rosemont | $1,325,000 Gracious home featuring 7 bedrooms and 4 full baths in an ideal location. Just a few blocks to King Street or Braddock Metro stops. Spacious private rear yard We’re excited to sponsor the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria’s Fun Dog Show professionally landscaped. Fully finished basement for the Ballyshaners 2020 St. Patrick’s Day Parade – and our furry friends agree! with full kitchen, and outside entrance. Sarah King 703.864.5050 Join us! Register your dog today at AlexandriaAnimals.org/DogShow2020 www.SarahEKing.com

OPEN SAT 2/29 & SUN 3/1, 2-4 OPEN FRI 5-7 AND SAT & SUN 2-4 Old Town Hunting Creek Brighton Place $2,195,000 $700,000 $629,000 Located in the desirable Just Listed! Fabulously Immaculate, bright, southeast quadrant, this freshened with spacious & conveniently Backyard Boats property new stainless steel located 3-bedroom, makes large scale appliances, paint and 3.5-bath townhome with entertaining a breeze. carpet. 2 bedrooms garage, gourmet kitchen, The oversized two-car with en-suites, walk master bath with garage and private out from dining room to soaking tub & separate elevator to all four levels Trex deck, and walk out shower, hardwood floors of this home provide basement with powder throughout, fenced convenience and room. Hardwood rear yard with fabulous comfort not commonly floors. Open Leap Day hardscapes, plantings & found in Old Town. weekend! 807 Green 2 patios. 2724 Kenwood 723 S Union Street Street Avenue Sissy Zimmerman 703.989.9779 Rebecca McCullough 571.384.0941 Sean McEnearney 703.635.8836 www.BBZGroup.com www.RebeccaMcCullough.com Heidi Burkhardt 703.217.6009

Serving the Washington, DC Metro Area since 1980. 703.549.9292 | 109 S. Pitt Street | Alexandria, VA 22314 | McEnearney.com

16 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v February 27-March 4, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com