Alexandria Gazette Packet 25 Cents
Serving Alexandria for over 200 years • A Connection Newspaper April 15, 2021 ACPS opens student contest T.C., Maury Schools Renamed to design new Titan logo.
By Jeanne Theismann Gazette Packet
he Alexandria City Pub- lic School board voted unanimously April 8 to Tchange the name of T.C. Williams High School to Alexan-
dria City High School. The board Photos contributed also voted unanimously to change the name of Matthew Maury Ele- mentary School to Naomi L. Brooks Elementary School, with both changes taking effect July 1, 2021. On April 13, T.C. Williams prin- cipal Peter Balas announced a con- test for students to submit ideas for Matthew Maury Elementary a new logo for the school. School has been renamed “ACPS is looking for a new logo to Naomi L. Brooks Elemen- that will support the new name for tary School in honor of the T.C. Williams High School which Alexandria teacher who died will be known as Alexandria City in 2020. High School as of July 1, 2021,” The Alexandria City Public School board voted April 8 to rename T.C. Williams High School as Alexan- Balas said on the T.C. Titan news dria City High School. The change will take effect July 1, 2021. site. “In order to engage our stu- dents in this process, ACPS has make the change in November of learned differently and should be announced a competition to de- “ACPS is looking for a new logo that 2020 along with Matthew Maury educated in separate schools. sign a new logo. The new logo Elementary School. Community Maury, considered the founder may be used on ACPS websites, will support the new name for T.C. input was solicited for possible of modern oceanography, served social media sites, business cards, names for both schools with the in the Confederacy during the Civil letterhead, banners, souvenir trin- Williams High School.” final decision being made by ACPS War. At the war’s end he went to kets and gifts, school apparel or –T.C. Principal Peter Balas on April 8. Mexico, where he worked to estab- uniforms, facility signage, or any- T.C. Williams was named af- lish a Confederate colony. where else ACPS chooses.” School Logo Design Review Com- 1t8666o/ ter Thomas Chambliss Williams, The new Naomi L. Brooks El- The contest is open only to cur- mittee will select the finalists on Petitions began circulating in ACPS superintendent from the ementary School is in honor of rently enrolled ACPS students. May 7. Contest rules and an entry earnest in early 2020 calling on mid-1930s until 1963. Williams Brooks, an Alexandria resident, Submissions are due by 11:59 p.m. form are available at https://acp- ACPS to rename T.C. Williams High was known for his segregationist educator and mother who died in April 30 and a Superintendent’s sweb.wufoo.com/forms/sh34qou- School. The School Board voted to view that Black and white students May of 2020. Former Fort Ward Museum A Lasting Legacy director Wanda Dowell dies at 91.
By Jeanne Theismann The trailblazing Dowell, who town, graduating as valedictorian Gazette Packet was recognized nationally for her from Wallins Creek High School in decades of preservation efforts, 1948. t was in 1965 that Wanda Dow- died April 9 from heart failure. She After the war, she married James ell filled out an application to was 91. Walker Dowell following his ser- Iwork for the City of Alexandria. Born Wanda Sue Thorpe on vice in the Pacific with the Army That led to a nearly four-decade April 2, 1930, in Harlan Coun- Air Corps. Together they moved to career at Fort Ward Museum, retir- ty, Ky., Dowell was the daughter Alexandria in 1951 with their one-
ing in 2002 after transforming the Photo by Tisara Photography of Clyde and Marie Thorpe. She year-old son, James Donn Dowell. former Union Army installation in was raised in a small coal mining See A Lasting, on Page 4 the West End of the city. “I wrote on the application that I was interested in Civil War histo- ry,” Dowell recalled when selected 13 Running for Lieutenant Governor as a Living Legend of Alexandria Seven Democrats and six Republicans are trying to secure their in 2016. “That got the attention parties’ nomination to be the candidate for lieutenant governor on of Col. Joseph Mitchell, who was the November ballot. Republicans will choose their candidate in a director of the newly formed Fort May 8 unassembled caucus, which will take place at 37 locations Ward Museum. Not only did Col. across Virginia. Democrats will choose their candidate in a June 8 Mitchell hire me, he encouraged statewide primary. Who are the candidates and why are they run- me to succeed in a field that at the Wanda Dowell, longtime director of the Fort Ward Museum, died ning? See page 8. time was dominated by men.” April 9 at the age of 91. McEnearney Associates has always had one motto in mind... not to be the biggest, but the best. For more than 40 years, our Associates have lived in and supported Alexandria, 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
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Serving the Washington, DC Metro Area since 1980. 703.549.9292 | 109 S. Pitt Street | Alexandria, VA 22314 | McEnearney.com 2 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Holocaust survivor recalls flight from “Warsaw Ghetto” and occupied Poland; Journey to Freedom Holocaust Remembrance Day was April 7.
By Jeanne Theismann Gazette Packet
am Ponczak was just shy of two years old when Nazi Germany invaded Po- land on Sept.1, 1939. At the time, SPonczak was living with his parents in Warsaw in an area that would become known as the Warsaw Ghetto, a section of the city walled off by Germans in 1940 for the forced placement of Jews. Four years later, on April 19, 1943, it was the site of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, the largest single revolt by Jews during World War II. By then, Ponczak’s father Jacob had fled to Soviet-occupied Poland in search of Holocaust survivor Sam Ponczak, left, with father Jacob, safety for his family, leaving his wife and son mother Sara and sister Giselle circa 1946 in Poland. behind. “I had no idea what was going on at the time,” Ponczak recalled from his home in Ar- lington. “We lived with my mother’s brother and his family - eight people in a small place – in the Jewish ghetto. When the war broke out my father wisely expected that when the Germans arrived, it would not be fun.” Ponczak’s mother, Sara, was reluctant to leave her own parents and siblings. But in November of 1940, she and Ponczak fled the Ghetto with the aid of a priest, who saw the Holocaust survivor two at the train station and shielded them Sam Ponczak, with Sam Ponczak in his from authorities. daughter Raquel 1955 high school gradu- “My mother was carrying me and wearing Hecker, talks about ation photo in Wroclaw, the Star of David on her armband,” Ponczak his family history Poland. said. “The priest told her to take the band off at his home in Ar- and get behind him. When asked, the priest lington on April 2. Sam Ponczak and said that we were from his parish. Did we his sister Giselle know him? No. Did we pay him? No. But this circa 1946. is the man that saved my life.” Part of the escape necessitated walking Sam Ponczak points to a mezuzah that across the frozen Bug River alone at night. survived the Holocaust amid his family’s Ponczak’s mother kept falling on the ice flight from occupied Poland. while holding him in her arms, which Pon- czak found amusing. Fearing that his laugh- then Wroclaw, where Ponczak finished high czak’s daughter Raquel Hecker. “We learned ter would get them caught, she gave him school. But antisemitism persisted so the more after he retired and began volunteer- family photographs to play with. family left Poland for France in 1957. ing at the Holocaust Museum about 13 years “Sadly, I do not have any photos of my rations so we could eat and my mother and In 1959, they immigrated to Argentina ago. That’s when he started opening up.” family from before the war,” Ponczak said I could walk around the camp. But the labor and in 1964 to the United States. They set- Now 83 years old, Ponczak, is still some- with regret. “Mother gave them to me to was hard and it was a grim existence.” tled in Baltimore, where the owners of Ham- times reluctant to share his experiences, keep me from laughing. I was a kid and Eventually the family was moved to Syk- burger’s Department Store offered Ponczak’s which included the loss of his uncle and thought it was a game and tore them up.” tyvkar, the capital of the Komi Autonomous father work tailoring clothing. family left behind in Poland. Once inside Soviet-occupied territory, So- Republic in northern Russia. While there, “In Argentina I realized that my best op- “I believe survivors haven’t talked about viet border guards arrested Ponczak and his Ponczak’s father and mother, an expert tai- portunities would be in the United States,” the Holocaust because they suffered so mother. They were reunited with Ponczak’s lor and seamstress, were assigned to make Ponczak said. “My father had employment much,” Ponczak said. “I was accused that I father and deported to Kotlas, a labor camp military clothing. In 1944, they were sent and I came on a student visa.” was not a Holocaust survivor by another sur- in Siberia. to the town of Kherson in Ukraine, where Ponczak, who obtained an engineering vivor because he survived a concentration “Kotlas was not like the German la- Ponczak’s sister Gisele was born in 1945 and degree from the University of Maryland, camp and I did not. And I understand that. bor camps, but you could not escape from where the family remained until the end of met Frieda Greenblatt during his freshman I was in occupied Warsaw but I feel that the there,” Ponczak recalled. “My father worked the war. year. The two married in 1965 and together real Holocaust survivors were my parents, as a lumberjack and we lived in a Mongolian Ponczak and his family returned to Poland raised three children. who did not have a lot of choices but still yurt – my family and a native woman who in 1946. With Warsaw destroyed, they set- “Dad didn’t talk much about the Holo- did everything they could to survive. They was assigned to stay with us. My father got tled first in Reichenbach (now Dzierżoniów) caust when we were younger,” said Pon- are my heroes.”
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THURSDAY/APRIL 15 ception at the Park and Recreation email until Wednesday, April 14, SATURDAY/APRIL 17 Join a tour of Alexandria and The Alexandria Park & Recre- Commission meeting on Thursday, 2021 or at the public hearing. For Discovering Alexandria Architecture explore looking at the various ation Commission will hold a April 15, 2021. more information, visit the Park & Tour (In Person). 10 a.m. Alexan- Architecture styles that adorn public hearing on the proposed The community is encouraged to Recreation Commission website dria has grown from a small town the city streets and make it one Armistead L. Boothe Park Field review the proposed field conver- to view the March 18, 2021 video in the 18th century to a bustling of the best places to live and Conversion Environmental Ex- sion plan and provide input via presentation. small city in the 21st century. See Bulletin, Page 5
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 v 3 News Giving Alexandria’s Wildlife a Second Chance This is National Animal Care & Control Appreciation Week. Photos Courtesy, Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
A baby squirrel, whose nest was destroyed on a construction site. The squirrel was transferred to An injured crow, rescued by the AWLA a rehabilitator. By Barbara S. Moffet and people. Working with AWLA Help With Wildlife staff, she learned how to handle t’s the time of year when Alex- domestic animals such as dogs, a Wildlife are resilient and andria’s wildlife comes to life pivot from skills honed with rac- generally thrive without as- — foraging, making nests and coons and skunks. sistance from people, but if raising their young. That trans- Lawrence said that sick and in- I you see an animal who ap- lates into action-packed days for jured animals initially are evalu- pears to be sick, injured or Animal Welfare League of Alexan- ated, including consultation with in danger, don’t hesitate to dria’s (AWLA) Animal Services Of- veterinarians and wildlife rehabili- contact the AWLA’s Animal ficer and wildlife specialist Megan tators, to determine what is best for Services team using the Po- Lawrence. A recent call concerned the animals. If appropriate, the an- lice Non-Emergency line at a common wildlife issue: squirrels. imals are then transported to any- 703.746.4444. “A tree had been cut down In Del one in a network of rehabbers who Ray, and in the trunk was a squir- specialize in various wild species. rel nest containing three babies,” A recent success story involved Animal Services Officer Megan Lawrence with a baby raccoon, one of Lawrence recalled. First, Lawrence not to handle an animal that has a baby opossums discovered in the five rescued by the AWLA after the animals’ mother was hit by a car. and colleague Sgt. Megan Boyd re- chance in the wild,” she said. Since pouch of their deceased mother in moved the week-and-a-half-old ba- the officers were able to reconnect a local backyard. Taken to a reha- den the fawn while searching for Spending time rehabbing both bies from the log, which was now the baby squirrels with their moth- bilitator by the AWLA, they eventu- food. Mother deer also keep some a gray fox and a red fox inspired on the ground. The babies had not er in this case, the optimal out- ally were released back to the wild. distance from their young so they Lawrence’s appreciation for the yet opened their eyes or developed come was reached. “We give it everything we can,” she don’t pass their scent to them be- species — and even a tattoo. “Fox- their fluffy tails, Lawrence recalls. Along with squirrels, Alexandria said. “We’ll even transfer animals cause that scent can attract pred- es are so smart and playful,” Law- “They just had a thin layer of gray has rich populations of wildlife of to rehabbers who are hours away if ators. rence said. “They are my favorite fur — and lots of fleas. We picked many kinds: birds, raccoons, opos- it means they might have a better “However, if a baby deer is stand- animal.” them off one by one,” she said. sums, rabbits, groundhogs, foxes, chance at success.” ing in a yard and crying loudly, that Lawrence and Boyd placed the deer and more. Lawrence has seen Lawrence says she works daily is a big red flag,” Lawrence said. More Information babies in a modified shoe box them all, starting with 12 years as a to topple people’s misconceptions “That probably means mom hasn’t The Animal Welfare League of cushioned with a synthetic squirrel wildlife rehabilitator in Maryland, about wildlife. A common one been around for quite a while and Alexandria is a local 501(c)(3) nest — hand-knit by AWLA volun- two of them as a licensed master is that raccoons seen wandering the fawn needs help.” Lawrence organization that operates the teers — and nailed the box as high rehabilitator. Lawrence grew up during the day must be sick. In advises calling the AWLA in that Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, Alex- as they could on another tree. “But with wildlife, among a family who reality, she said, raccoons are very situation, as they are specially andria’s only open-access animal the babies started screaming, mom routinely rehabilitated injured and opportunistic and sometimes will trained to observe and determine shelter. In response to the global came running and then she looked sick wildlife on their bucolic prop- forage during daytime hours, espe- when assistance is needed. pandemic, the AWLA has estab- at us.” She had already made a erty in St. Mary’s County, Md. cially in urban environments when Some people also think that lished a virtual adoption process new plan: She took the babies out Lawrence, who spent time in they are more likely to find food wildlife aren’t so great at parent- and is operating a Pet Pantry that of the nest and transported them nursing school and also has a de- during the day. Opossums will do ing, Lawrence said, but in reali- provides pet food and supplies to to a new one in another tree. gree in criminal justice, decided the same. ty, most wildlife excel at it. Baby community members in need. The Wildlife, says Lawrence, is very the job as an AWLA Animal Ser- Some people also get alarmed raccoons remain with their moth- AWLA also offers assistance to Al- resourceful and adaptable. “We vices Officer was a blend of ev- when they see a baby deer stand- er until they are quite large, she exandrians with questions about screen them carefully before re- erything she was looking for in ing alone, believing the animal says, and generally receive excel- wildlife and animals in the com- moving even injured animals to go an environment that emphasized has been abandoned. More likely, lent care. Foxes are very devoted munity. More information can be to rehabilitation because it’s best compassion towards both animals Lawrence says, the mother has hid- parents, who co-parent their kits. found at AlexandriaAnimals.org. A Lasting Legacy
From Page 1 ington and largely due to Dowell’s about how to do exhibits and man- accreditation from the American obtaining signage identifying A tireless worker throughout efforts is one of the best preserved age collections for small muse- Association of Museums. In the Civil War fort sites that once her life, Dowell found her call- and interpreted. ums.” 1990s, Dowell was a founding surrounded Alexandria. Later ing at Fort Ward, the fifth larg- “When I first started, nothing Dowell’s efforts were rewarded member of the Virginia Civil War she collaborated with other city est fort built to defend Wash- was catalogued,” Dowell recalled in 1981 with her appointment as Trails historical association, which sites in creating an Emergency ington, D.C. during the Civil in 2016. “I began doing an inven- Director of Fort Ward Museum and today guides visitors to more than Disaster Plan for Historic Prop- War. It is now called the Flag- tory and through classes at the Historic Site. It was under Dowell’s 1,200 civil war sites. erties. On 9/11, Dowell kept the ship of the Defenses of Wash- Smithsonian, I learned all I could tutelage that the museum received Dowell was instrumental in See A Lasting, Page 11
4 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Giving Alexandria’s Wildlife a Second ChanceDPC to Host Candidate Forum April 20 he Departmental Progressive Club Merrick Malone, who will be moderating will host a mayoral and city coun- the forum. “Candidates will also be asked to Tcil candidates’ forum April 20th at identify their priorities for spending funds 7 p.m. via Zoom. Topics for the candidates received from President Biden’s administra- will include racial equity, affordable hous- tion.” To view the forum, use Zoom Access ing, education and infrastructure. “We will ID: 84604107651 Passcode: 565006. focus on the most critical issues facing our city right now,” said past DPC president –Jeanne Theismann Bulletin Board
From Page 3 House property and the Mansion House Hotel
Photos Courtesy, Animal Welfare League of Alexandria work. Reservations are required as space is in what was known as the Mansion House limited. Tickets: https://apm.activecommuni- Hospital during the Civil War. Discover how ties.com/novaparks/Activity_Search/4679 both the Carlyle House and the Hotel build- ings were utilized during this tumultuous SUNDAY/APRIL 18 time in Alexandria and the nation’s history. Registration required. Register: https://alexli- Legacy of the Green Cabinet Walking Tour (In braryva.org/event/4909981 Person). 3:30 p.m. In the early 19th Century,
William Green started the Green Furniture factory in Alexandria and by 1823 his son, ALEXANDRIA PREPARES FOR SPRING James, would take over. James expanded his The City of Alexandria is preparing for warmer father’s factory and established himself as weather with its annual spring beautification a prominent Alexandrian through building efforts, including gateway cleaning, mulch and operating Green’s Mansion House Hotel. delivery, pothole repair, and street sweeping. Join us on a tour to learn about James Green Gateway Cleaning: The spring gateway cleaning and his family’s life here in Alexandria. is scheduled to begin Saturday, April 10 and Tickets https://apm.activecommunities.com/ continue each Saturday, until all gateway novaparks/Activity_Search/4685 areas are complete. The primary focus of the clean-up is to “spruce up” the entry points to WEDNESDAY/APRIL 21 the city. The gateways included in the spring cleaning program are Telegraph Road, Duke Stories of Triumph & Loss: Carlyle House in the Street/I-395, Van Dorn Street/Eisenhower Av- Civil War (Virtual). 12 p.m. enue, and SeminaryRoad/I-395. Several areas Through images, letters, and diaries, the Site throughout Alexandria will receive enhanced Manager of Carlyle, House Andrea Cochrane litter collection as part of the beautification Tracey, explores the stories of the nurses, effort. doctors, stewards, soldiers and Alexandria residents who found themselves at the Carlyle See Bulletin, Page 14 Animal Services Officer Megan Lawrence with a baby raccoon, one of five rescued by the AWLA after the animals’ mother was hit by a car.
Spending time rehabbing both a gray fox and a red fox inspired Lawrence’s appreciation for the species — and even a tattoo. “Fox- es are so smart and playful,” Law- rence said. “They are my favorite animal.”
More Information The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria is a local 501(c)(3) organization that operates the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, Alex- andria’s only open-access animal shelter. In response to the global pandemic, the AWLA has estab- lished a virtual adoption process and is operating a Pet Pantry that provides pet food and supplies to community members in need. The AWLA also offers assistance to Al- exandrians with questions about wildlife and animals in the com- munity. More information can be found at AlexandriaAnimals.org.
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 v 5 Opinion Alexandria Gazette Packet
www.AlexandriaGazette.com Road Diet, Mumble Strips, Speed Enforcement @AlexGazette An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered LIVE OAKS RIVER OAKS to homes and businesses. Proposed safety fixes for GW Parkway, which can be Published by Local Media Connection LLC 658 Live Oak Drive 620 Rivercrest Drive McLean, VA McLean, VA 1606 King Street incredibly dangerous for motorists and pedestrians alike. Alexandria, Virginia 22314 $12,888,000 $11,497,000 By Sen. Adam Ebbin (D-30) Free digital edition delivered to potential engineering enforcement solutions. (Morningside Lane, Wellington your email box. Go to and traffic safety alter- Though a range of al- Road, Waynewood Boulevard, and connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe Phyllis Patterson Phyllis Patterson he George Washington ations, and took hours ternatives are provided Vernon View Drive) in 2021. The +1 703 408 4232 +1 703 408 4232 NEWS DEPARTMENT: Parkway is a scenic and of public input during in the study, the authors NPS plan provides for signs and [email protected] vital thoroughfare run- the process. The study acknowledge that each striping to keep drivers oriented Editor & Publisher ning through the 30th was released April 5. intersection will likely and create a center turn lane. NPS Mary Kimm T [email protected] WESLEY HEIGHTS District. The parkway holds a spe- The assessment fo- require its own custom also plans to improve signs and @MaryKimm LANGLEY FARMS cial place in history, specifically on cused on nine inter- solution to correctly striping to five intersections (Belle 4615 Dexter Street NW Jeanne Theismann Washington, DC the National Register of Historic sections in the south- address the traffic and Haven Marina, Wellington Road, [email protected] 1004 Dogue Hill Lane @TheismannMedia Places, and was the first parkway ernmost 6.3 miles of Ebbin capacity issues. Some Collingwood Road, Waynewood $6,830,000 McLean, VA the roadway (From Belle Haven of the specific suggestions include Boulevard, and Fort Hunt Road). Janet Barnett, John Bordner, built by the United States govern- Mark Mogle ment. Today it serves as an access to Mount Vernon) and conduct- reapplying pavement markings, The report provides evi- Contributing Photographers Michael Rankin $7,950,000 [email protected] point to parks, neighborhoods, and ed analysis of crashes, speed, and installing “mumble strips” to keep dence-based suggestions to the +1 202 271 3344 Cynthia Steele Vance heavily used routes by commuters traffic markings which informed vehicles on the roadway (mumble National Park Service as they make Shirley Ruhe John Vardas Contributing Photographer and Writer +1 301 807 1119 +1 703 408 1810 and tourists. Unfortunately, due to the need for solutions that en- strips are a quieter version of rum- decisions and plans for the future [email protected] of the parkway. I requested anoth- increased usage rates and design hance the safety of drivers, bikers, ble strips which alert drivers when Eden Brown, Bridgette Adu-Wadier flaws the GW Parkway can -be in and pedestrians. they begin to veer out of their er opportunity for community in- Contributing Writers [email protected] credibly dangerous for motorists https://beyer.house.gov/up- lane), developing a tree trimming put, details of which will emerge and pedestrians alike. High speed, loadedfiles/gw_parkway_traf- program, and starting an excessive in the coming months. Should you Hope Nelson Food Writer McLEAN PEARL WOODLEA MILL severe outcome crashes, especially fic_and_safety_context_sensitive_ speed education and enforcement have any questions or concerns [email protected] @kitchenrecess at intersections below Alexandria solution_assessment_final.pdf program. Educational campaigns about the implications of the re- 6822 Georgetown Pike 1201 Woodlea Mill Court Michael Pope McLean, VA McLean, VA occur at unacceptable and all too Narrowed down from 89 pro- to inform motorists about seasonal port, which you can read here, I Senior Reporter regular rates. posals, which were evaluated on increases in pedestrian and bicycle hope you will consider attending [email protected] @michaelleepope $6,250,000 $4,500,000 U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va) was criteria that included traffic safety traffic, as well as wildlife signage the event. I’m encouraged by the successful in securing necessary benefit, implementation timeline, were also suggested. suggestions for safe alternatives ADVERTISING: Jonathan Taylor Doug Richards For advertising information +1 202 276 3344 funding for the National Park Ser- construction cost, and community Based on the study, The Nation- and pleased that NPS is already [email protected] +1 703 609 2188 vice (NPS), which maintains and support, the study presents both al Park Service (NPS) is planning carefully considering implementa- 703-778-9431 oversees the parkway, to undertake general and concrete suggestions. to implement a “road diet” to re- tion and the potential impacts of Debbie Funk Disply Advertising/National Sales a traffic and safety assessment. The resulting 26 proposed im- duce the number of lanes in ar- the solutions presented. 703-778-9444 It is my continued honor to serve [email protected] Engineers evaluated crash data, provements range from engineer- eas most likely to see dangerous POTOMAC RIDGE conducted fieldwork, considered ing fixes to driver education and speeds between four intersections the 30th District. Tara Lloyd POTOMAC Display Advertising, 703-740-7128 [email protected] Potomac Ridge Road 7200 Brookstone Court Great Falls, VA Letters to the Editor David Griffin Potomac, MD Marketing Assistant 703-778-9431 Parcels Available From [email protected] $2,995,000 Mayor Wilson Doesn’t Deserve Attacks $3,200,000 Classified & Employment Advertising Jonathan Taylor To the Editor: appointment with her statement’s so Alexandria will have a bright ocrats to vote for Justin Wilson in 703-778-9431 Aladdin Barkawi +1 202 276 3344 We served on City Council with attacks on Mayor Wilson’s “integ- future. He does not deserve Ms. the June 8th Democratic Primary. +1 703 965 5389 Publisher both Mayor Justin Wilson and rity” and “ethics”. We know and Silberberg’s personal attacks which Bill Euille, former Mayor Jerry Vernon former Mayor Allison Silberberg, have worked with Mayor Wilson have no place in our civic debate. Del Pepper, Councilwoman 703-549-0004 [email protected] who issued a statement on March on an array of issues and consid- We know Justin has done a great Paul Smedberg, TANTALLON ON THE POTOMAC Art/Design: 25, announcing her candidacy for er him a proven leader, man of job as Mayor during these chal- former Councilmember Laurence Foong, John Heinly, PETWORTH Mayor. high-moral character, and some- lenging times and deserves re-elec- Tim Lovain, Ali Khaligh 12212 Candle Light Circle Production Manager: Fort Washington, MD 5415 Illinois Avenue NW We want to share our deep dis- one who is well-versed on issues tion. We urge all Alexandria Dem- former Councilmember Geovani Flores Washington, DC Editor Emeritus: $875,000 Supporting Allison Silberberg Mary Anne Weber $799,000
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©2021 TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed real estate broker. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s Internationa Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Equal housing opportunity. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Price and availability subject to change. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 v 7 News Running for Second in Command Calendar NOW THRU MAY 1 SATURDAY/APRIL 17 Thirteen candidates come in this country.” his House of Delegates in the convention, voters must register as del- trail she accuses Democrats of race baiting. The “Unfinished/Finished.” At Del Ray Springtime Stroll In Old Town Alexandria. campaign, and he also egates to the convention. Voters will be asked “They’re pitting the races against each oth- Artisans explores when and how art is “fin- 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. This delightful walking Del. Hala Ayala (D- received $25,000 from to rank the candidates from first to sixth, and er,” said Sears in a candidate forum. “You’re ished.” Every artwork in this exhibit has a tour offers exterior views of more than a are running 51) was first elected to Clean Virginia. On the if no one wins a majority on the first round the heard the constant Black, white, now it’s “starting” artist and “finishing” artist. The dozen homes with notable history and is exhibit features the work of local artists anchored by four historical properties: the the House of Delegates campaign trail, he ad- last-place candidate will be dropped. Asian. They’re speaking against Thomas and high school students, plus offered an Lee-Fendall House garden, the Ramsay for lieutenant in 2017, defeating in- vocates for banning as- Jefferson kids and their successes, and they avenue for collaboration to combat the iso- House garden, the Athenaeum, and St. cumbent Republican sault weapons, joining Former Del. Tim want quotas.” lation we have all experienced during the Paul’s Episcopal Church. Along the route, governor in Virginia. Rich Anderson. Cam- the National Popular Hugo (R-40) was first pandemic. View at Del Ray Artisans, 2704 homes will be adorned with blue-ribbon Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria VA. worthy wreaths, planters and window paign-finance records Vote Interstate Com- elected in a 2002 spe- Lance Allen is a By Michael Lee Pope Mark Levine Details: www.DelRayArtisans.org/exhibits boxes created by members of the Garden show she’s received pact and abolishing cial election to fill the first-time candidate Club of Alexandria and the Hunting Creek GAZETTE PACKET $25,000 from the envi- mandatory minimum seat vacated by Jay who is trying to use his Garden Club. Ticket holders will have Hala Ayala NOW THRU MAY 2 ronmental group Clean sentences for non-violent crimes. O’Brien when he was lack of political experi- Cherry Blossom Exhibition. At the Torpedo exclusive access to the Lee-Fendall House he job of lieutenant governor is Virginia, and she also was able to transfer “I support no prison sentences for peo- elected to the state ence as an asset, fram- Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St., Alex- garden, where experts will be on hand to discuss native and medicinal plants and often overlooked, but it plays an $60,000 from her House campaign. On the ple who are addicted to drugs, period,” said Senate. As a longtime ing his campaign as an andria. Art lovers are encouraged to stop by the Torpedo Factory Art Center through- will also have access to the garden at the important role in Virginia politics. campaign trail, she talks about how being an Levine in a candidate forum. “Because if member of the House, Tim Hugo attempt to do some- out April to view floral art displayed on Athenaeum, which will be decorated for TAlthough many people view it as a Afro-Latina-Lebanese-Irish has informed her you’re an addict, you need help. You need he served as chairman thing about his frustra- all three floors. Participating artists will an afternoon luncheon. Visit https://www. stepping stone to running for governor, the view of politics. health care. You don’t need to go to prison.” of the House Republican Caucus and was tion with politics. He display their most colorful spring and vagardenweek.org/ lieutenant governor has a critical role in the “For a long time, I did not feel like politi- able to raise large amounts of money to help doesn’t have any big Lance Allen cherry-blossom-inspired works in their day-to-day proceedings of the General As- Del. Elizabeth studios. Torpedo Factory Art Center is open SATURDAY/APRIL 17 cians looked like me or had a lived experi- candidates across Virginia. On the campaign name endorsements, and he hasn’t raised Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. Miss Fluffy Souffle will perform Virtual Savory Soiree: “The Food of Love” – An Earth sembly. ence like mine,” said Ayala in a candidate fo- Guzman (D-31) was trail, his pitch to Republican delegates is that much money. But on the campaign trail, he’s to 6 p.m. Visit www.torpedofactory.org ‘80s Music Drag Bingo on Thursday, Day Celebration of Shakespeare. 4 p.m. He or she presides over the Senate, which rum. “My family struggled growing up, and I first elected in 2017, he’s a Republican who has a history of win- trying to connect with voters by tapping into April 15 at the Alden. and 7 p.m. At The Rectory, 711 Princess often means making procedural rulings lost my father to gun violence. defeating Republi- ning in Northern Virginia, where he was re- their frustration with Republican leadership NOW THRU MAY 15 Street, Alexandria. A musical birthday about whether motions can proceed or not. can incumbent Scott elected eight times before being unseated by in the General Assembly. “MEG Spring Show 2021.” at Multiple Expo- feast for William Shakespeare, featuring April 16 -- noon to 1:30 p.m., Engineering-Shelter musical works by John Dowland and Perhaps more importantly, though, the lieu- Norfolk City Coun- Lingamfelter. Cam- Dan Helmer in 2019. “We caved on issue after issue, and I’m sures Gallery, Alexandria. An exhibition of photography by MEG member artists at the Building anonymous popular tunes from the Eliza- tenant governor gets to break tie votes in a cilwoman Andria paign-finance records “You never thought a decade ago or 15 tired of compromising my values just so we gallery in the Torpedo Factory Art Center April 27 -- 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., Meteorology-Ex- bethan era, performed by Grammy-nom- chamber where Democrats hold a two-vote McClellan was first show she’s taken large years ago that you would have Democrats can have a little bit of power,” said Allen in in Alexandria. The spring exhibition treme Weather inated lutenist Ronn McFarlane – and majority. Because the chamber is home to elected in 2016, and campaign contribu- talking casually about infanticide,” said a candidate forum. “It’s time to stand up and features two signature pieces by each MEG The cost is $10 per person for each session. No accompanied by an Earth Day-inspired Elizabeth Guzman indoor restrooms will be available, but there some conservative-leaning Democrats, the tions from several member artist. farm-to-table dinner and wine pairings. as an at-large mem- Hugo in a candidate forum. “You never say the things we know as Republicans that are portable restrooms. Call 703-768-2525; or Visit the website: https://www.classi- lieutenant governor has many opportunities ber of the council rep- unions, and she’s also taken $25,000 from thought you’d have Beto O’Rourke going we need to say.” visit Huntley Meadows Park. calmovements.com/secretgardenconcerts/ to step in and break a tie vote. NOW THRU MAY 23 resents more people Clean Virginia. On the campaign trail, she’s door to door against us to talk about taking Those Spaces Between Us. At Target Gallery, Earlier this month, Lieutenant Governor than anybody else in styled herself as the Bernie Sanders candi- our guns, and you never thought you’d be Puneet Ahluwalia Studio 2 of the Art Center, 105 N. Union SATURDAY/APRIL 17 APRIL 17-25 Justin Fairfax broke a tie vote on legalizing the race. Her biggest date in the race who will abolish Virginia’s talking about defunding the police. But that’s is an activist who Street, in Alexandria. The show is a hybrid Plein Air Art Show & Sale. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. At Alexandria Wedding Showcase. At multiple marijuana after two Senate Democrats voted contributor is the Nor- Andria McClellan so-called right-to-work law. what Democrats are doing now.” has been involved digital and in-person exhibition that 128 South Royal Street, Alexandria, under the venues across Alexandria and online. Boxwood Tent. A group of local artists have Couples will be able to access a fun Alex- with Republicans. The next election for sen- folk-based PAC Access for Virginia. On the “I’m ready to go to the Senate and to be in Northern Virgin- explores transition, ambiguity, and being on the threshold of change. Those Spaces come together to display and sell their art andria Wedding Showcase mobile-friendly ators isn’t until 2023, so the next lieutenant campaign trail, she talks about how her ex- the voice to educate the senators on how Del. Glenn Davis ia politics for years Between Us considers the distances be- with proceeds to be donated to the Save River website that will include a directory of governor will walk into a Senate cham- perience in local government would inform it’s important to repeal the right to work,” (R-84) is a former trying to build an im- tween people and their surroundings and Farm campaign. Enjoy a walk through Old businesses, venues and services, guiding ber where he or she could end up being a her performance as lieutenant governor. said Guzman in a candidate forum. “Repeal- member of the Virgin- migrant base for the how that divide becomes its own character Town. See marvelous artwork inspired by the them from place to place. For those who community. Purchase a painting to take home. want to stay virtual, each participating tie-breaking vote on almost any issue. “We need a statewide database of afford- ing the right to work is providing workers a ia Beach City Council Republican Party. As in art, history, memories, and the stories people tell about themselves. Virtual company will have an option for a virtual able housing, where people can search and voice at the table, to fight for better equip- who was first elected to a first-generation im- Puneet Ahluwalia Reception: Friday, May 14, 2021 at 7 p.m. SATURDAY/APRIL 17 tour, video or scheduled appointment. As find opportunities,” said McClellan in a can- ment, to better their salary and for training the House of Delegates migrant, he’s hoping Visit facebook.com/torpedofactory Virtual Ball. Sponsored by Gadsby’s Tavern they visit (in person or online) each venue Democratic didate forum. “It needs to be searchable and purposes as well.” in 2013. Campaign-fi- his personal story might resonate with voters Museum. 7 p.m. Building on the success of or set appointments to talk to wedding available for all throughout the common- nance records show who want to expand the range of the party. NOW THRU APRIL 26 the virtual Birthnight Ball, Gadsby’s Tavern professionals, they will “check in” through the Alexandria Wedding Showcase web- Candidates for wealth.” Xavier Warren is an he was able to transfer On the campaign trail, he talks about how Recyclable Design Competition. Using recy- Museum will host a virtual Ball. It is April of 1775 and in solidarity with our brethren in site. Visit AlexandriaWeddingShowcase. NFL player agent and about $350,000 from Glenn Davis critical race theory is a threat to Virginia clable materials make fantastic creations and submit them for real architects and the Boston who have been under great dis- com. Lieutenant Governor Sean Perryman is lobbyist for nonprof- his House campaign account, giving him schools. artists to review and to win tress at the hands of the British, we hold a ball Democrats will choose their nominee for the former president its. Campaign-finance an early edge over other other candidates. “All it does is teach children to divide, to prizes. Grades K-12. Sponsored by Alexandria in their honor. Dance from home to 10 English APRIL 21 TO JUNE 21 lieutenant governor in a June 8 statewide of the Fairfax NAACP, records show he’s tak- As a member of the House, he has a voting hate, to see themselves as victims of oppres- Library, AIA NOVA Chapter, and the Tor- Country Dances selected for this occasion. Taste of Old Town North. At various locations Throughout the evening, also enjoy timely throughout Old Town North, Alexandria. primary. (Absentee voting begins April 23.) a role that’s put him en money from people record that’s a bit more moderate on issues sors,” said Ahluwalia in a video posted to pedo Factory Art Center. Visit the website: http://alexlibraryva.org/build-it trivia on the 1770s period and pop-culture Enjoy a two-month stroll through the Seven candidates will be on the ballot. The at the center of the who work in sports involving gay rights and labor issues. On the YouTube. “It leads to lower achievement and it has inspired. Price is $15 per person. Visit neighborhood with this year’s reimagined seat will be open because incumbent Lt. Gov. debate on ending qual- management, and he campaign trail, he’s positioning himself as a more quotas. America can’t lead when we NOW THRU MAY 16 AlexandriaVa.Gov/Shop. Taste of Old Town North. Passport holders Justin Fairfax is running for governor. ified immunity and received a $10,000 in- moderate alternative to the other candidates don’t even believe in our own values.” will be able to use their Passport to receive Xavier Warren Trees/Humans: Life in the Balance. By Patricia defelonizing drugs. A kind contribution from who are more closely aligned with former Underwood. At the Athenaeum. In this SATURDAY/APRIL 17 discounts at small businesses throughout Old Town North: The Arts and Cultural Del. Sam Rasoul significant portion of communications firm Capture Create Media. President Donald Trump. Maeve Rigler is a exhibition Patricia Underwood employs Sketchy Workshop. 10 a.m. to noon. At Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 District, Parker-Gray and Braddock Road (D-11) was first elect- his campaign contribu- Sean Perryman On the campaign trail, he advocates for end- “I want to go to the middle because the lawyer who wanted to photo images of ancient trees taken on her travels. Stop in the gallery for socially-dis- Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. Instruc- West. Passports may only be used once ed to the House of Del- tions come from law- ing the cash-bail system and investing in so- middle is where you win elections,” said Davis run as a Republican tanced ‘meet and greets’ with Patricia tor Margaret Wohler will lead participants at each participating business; if 75% of egates in 2013 to fill yers and lobbyists, and he’s taken $25,000 lar farms. in a candidate forum. “The middle is where a candidate against U.S. Underwood on Saturday, April 10th, 2 — 4 through a series of short, fast, drawing tech- a Passport has been used by June 21, the Passport holder will be entered into a the seat vacated by On- from Clean Virginia. On the campaign trail, “Virginia is in a covid crisis, a climate cri- lot of Republicans have gotten way too un- Rep. Jim Moran (D-8) p.m. Visit www.nvfaa.org. niques that will enhance observational skills and focus on natural subjects. drawing to receive prizes. Passports may zlee Ware. He’s raised he’s called for allowing incarcerated people sis and an economic crisis,” said Warren in a comfortable being, and what’s why we lose.” but she was unsuc- be purchased online at oldtownnorth. APRIL 15-27 In conjunction with the Unfinished/Finished more money than any to vote, abolishing qualified immunity for candidate forum. cessful in securing the exhibit. Visit https://delrayartisans.org/ org or at the Community Table at the Old Outdoor Science Lab. At Huntley Meadows of the other Democrats police and limiting campaign contributions. “I want to be the leader in technology, Former Del. Win- nomination in the con- event/unfinished-finished/ Town North Thursday Farmer’s Market. Park, 3701 Lockheed Blvd., Alexandria. Proceeds will support the work of the Old in the race, and his “I don’t think corporate donations are a healthcare innovation and also clean energy some Sears (R-90) vention. She’s now po- Explore the exciting world of science with Sam Rasoul Maeve Rigler SATURDAY/APRIL 17 Town North Community Partnership and campaign contributors problem. I think the problem is contribution and helping families to build generational served one term in the sitioning herself as the fun, hands-on experiments, activities and ALIVE-inc.org. Visit include donations from limits,” said Perryman in a candidate forum. wealth.” House of Delegates 20 candidate who will fight for election security, challenges. Enrich your understanding Mastering Weeds in Your Garden. 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. (Adults) Learn how to identify common www.oldtownnorth.org. the health-care sector, physicians, pharma- “Whether you’re getting $100,000 from an years ago. Since that arguing that she’ll fight against voter fraud. of various science and engineering topics using scientific investigations, observations weeds and invasive plants in your garden and cists and dentists. On the campaign trail, he LLC or from Joe Smith down the block, they time, she waged an “We need a candidate who will stand up and lab skills with the guidance of a park natural areas on this walk with horticultur- THE BIRCHMERE talks about how his experience as a Muslim are still having influence over you. And so Republican unsuccessful campaign against voter fraud,” said Rigler in a YouTube naturalist. Each outdoor class will focus on ist Brenda Skarphol. Learn about weed life Fri. Apr. 16: The Seldom Scene. Tickets $35. Shannon Bielski & Moonlight Drive to has informed his view of politics. we absolutely need to have limits on our con- in 2004 against Con- video. a different science theme, and all supplies cycles and how weeds end up in your yard. Come away with some weed management open. “Look, we’ve all had some vulnerable tributions.” Candidates for gressman Bobby Scott “The Democrats stole the election from the are included. Winsome Sears techniques with a special emphasis on organic Sat./Sun. Apr. 17-18: Samantha Fish. Tickets moments over the past several years,” said These outdoor labs are designed for partici- and an unsuccessful Republicans. I’ve been expecting Virginia Re- pants age 6 to adult. The program times strategies. $18 per person. Register online at $35. Rasoul in a candidate forum. “And a big vul- Del. Mark Levine (D-45) was first elected Lieutenant Governor write-in candidacy in 2018 as an alternative publicans to stand up and speak out while and topics are: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (008. Wed. Apr. 21: Wynonna Judd $79.50 nerable moment for me was in December of in 2015, filling a seat vacated by Democrat Republicans will choose their nominee in an to Corey Stewart, whom she called a “charla- the Democrats keep spewing their socialist April 15 -- 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Chemis- NTYA) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703- (Resched from 12/13/20. All 12/13/20 tickets honored.) 2015 when a then-candidate for president Rob Krupicka. Campaign-finance records unassembled convention on May 8, which will tan.” Sears has the endorsement of state Sen. agenda, I’ve heard nothing but silence from try-Slime Science 642-5173. said people who worship like me are not wel- show his largest donation is $40,000 from be at 37 locations throughout Virginia. To vote Amanda Chase (R-11), and on the campaign Republicans.” 8 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 v 9 News Board Approves Historic Zoning for River Farm Annenberg Foundation reasserts intent on restrictions, requirements of grant.
By Ken Moore Granahan called the rezoning clas- The Gazette sification. “I reiterate my request for you to igns have been posted in take a little more time. A historic front of American Horti- overlay district should not be nec- cultural Society headquar- essary,” he said. “Work with AHS Sters that say the property is for 60-90 days. If successful, it cer- closed to the public, said Katherine tainly will be worth the time.” Ward, of the Mount Vernon Coun- Jay Spiegel was the lone voice cil of Citizens Association. from the public that objected to “We find that unacceptable,” she the historic overlay district. He told the Board of Supervisors Tues- said AHS has been the steward of day, April 13. the land for the last 50 years and Former AHS Executive Director called the Board of Supervisors’ Keister Evans, now a member of action, “a strange way to show ap- the Save the River Farms Commit- preciation.” tee, reiterated the history of River Farm, including negotiations that BUT NOVA PARKS, Northern Vir- gave AHS ownership of the land ginia Conservation Trust, and their “once we made it clear we would partners made an offer to buy Riv- … keep the property open to the er Farm earlier this year, but the public.” AHS Board rejected the offer, look- He called AHS plans to sell River Gazette file photo ing for their original asking price Farm “a violation of the trust.” of $32.9 million. In fact, The Annenberg Foun- “We deeply appreciate the inter- dation’s letter to Terry Hayes, est of NOVA Parks in River Farm chairwoman of the American Hor- and their proposal to purchase an ticultural Society dated April 7, option on the property, which if surfaced before the Board of Su- exercised, would involve payments pervisors meeting Tuesday, April to AHS over several years. We de- River Farm. 13. liberated carefully over the propos- The letter explains the agree- al and its terms and concluded that ment of the Annenberg Foundation said “belongs to the American peo- amendment adding an emergency special place,” said Anne Wilson their offer as currently written sim- to offer $1 million for the AHS to ple.” Haupt died in 2005. clause, so that it goes into effect Fafara. ply does not meet AHS’s needs,” purchase the land in 1972 for its “The Foundation appreciates the immediately. Fafara was one of dozens of AHS according to AHS Board Chair Ter- “national headquarters and horti- Society’s commitment to the condi- The overlay zoning at the county volunteers who donated more than ry Hayes, at the time. cultural center for exhibits, meet- tions of the Grant and Ms. Haupt’s level, approved Tuesday 9-0-1, also 5,000 hours a year of their time be- No counter offer was made nor ings and related activities.” philanthropic legacy.” goes into effect immediately. cause “we loved AHS and we love discussion how to keep the proper- “The Grant Agreement and the River Farm and believed in both, ty open to the public. Sales Contract do not provide for THE BOARD APPROVED a motion “IT IS INSPIRING for so many to the organization and the property.” Local agent Sue Goodhart of any alternate use of the Property, Tuesday, April 13, 2021, to rezone be advocating for preserving and She and the volunteers asked Compass Real Estate Group in Al- nor the right of the Society to sell River Farm as a historic overlay protecting our history,” said Storck. the AHS Board of Directors a num- exandria listed the farm for sale, the Property. The Grant Agree- district, adding a layer of protec- Katherine Tobin first explored ber of questions when they learned calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime op- ment further provides that, ‘The tion for the property, as AHS con- River Farm after seeing signs on of the Board’s plan to sell the prop- portunity to own 27 plus acres of Trustee and the Society hereby tinues to try to sell the property. the Parkway for AHS years ago. erty, questions which were never riverfront property.” agree that if title to the Property Mount Vernon Supervisor Dan “I visited and fell in love with answered. Nor did the Board of Bob Brackman, Interim Execu- shall not pass to the Society, [the Storck and the Board of Supervi- the land, the gardens and the wild- Directors meet with its volunteers, tive Director of River Farm said, Grant Agreement] shall be null sors had asked Planning Staff in life,” she testified virtually at the she said. http://www.connection- “Once River Farm is sold, AHS will and void,’” according to Cynthia November to determine the feasi- Board of Supervisors public hear- newspapers.com/news/2020/ determine the best location for the Kennard, executive director of The bility of creating the historic over- ing on Tuesday, April 13. She said sep/26/opinion-commentary-few- headquarters to serve and build Annenberg Foundation. lay district. the history of the property doesn’t questions-about-sale-river-/ our national audience.” Kennard said Ambassador Wal- “A massive undertaking,” said just begin with George Washing- “Their promise has fallen by the McGranahan appeared to con- ter H. Annenberg would never Board of Supervisors Chairman ton, but with indigenous people wayside,” said Fafara. AHS wants vince Pat Herrity to abstain from have made the grant to the Ameri- Jeff McKay said Tuesday. who were the first caretakers and “to extract $32 million that they voting yesterday. can Horticultural Society if it knew Planning staff recommended ap- treated it as sacred, as did the were handed on a silver platter for “To move this forward without AHS would later sell the property. proval of the Historic Overlay Dis- founding father. free.” AHS input today is a mistake and “The Foundation urges the So- trict on Tuesday, April 13, and the “River Farm is in serious risk for “AHS has lost the trust of its vol- sets a dangerous precedent,” said ciety to adhere to the represen- Board approved the measure. Nine being lost forever unless we save unteers and the local community,” Herrity. “I can’t vote against this tations and directives in both the Supervisors approved the action it,” said Tobin, one of the several she said. because I support the goals, but I Grant Agreement and the Sales Tuesday; Pat Herrity abstained. speakers who testified before the can’t vote for it because I can’t sup- Contract, which contain express “This is a historic treasure, an Board on Tuesday. THE ATTORNEY FOR AHS, John port the process.” limitations on the Society’s ability environmental treasure, it is a “Never did we dream AHS would C. McGranahan, called the Society, Storck said he had five meet- to use the Property - specifically once in a lifetime opportunity,” jeopardize... this landscape,” said “a wonderful steward of the prop- ings and phone calls with the AHS for its national headquarters and said McKay. “It would be foolish of Laura Francis, of the Hunting erty and a great neighbor.” Board, members, the attorney and as a horticultural center - and the us not to take this opportunity.” Creek Garden Club. He pledged that AHS does not others. Society cannot use the Property for Sen. Scott Surovell (D-36) in- “They should support this his- intend to sell to a developer for “Many of them support our pro- any other purpose,” according to troduced legislation in the General toric overlay district if they want a subdivision, and objected to the cess,” said Storck. Kennard. Assembly to give the Fairfax Coun- to maintain the 100-year-legacy,” historic overlay district classifica- Both Keister Evans and Kennard ty Board of Supervisors additional said Katherine Ward, of the Mount tion, saying that the Board of Su- AMERICAN HORTICULTURAL discussed Enid Annenberg Haupt’s authority to protect River Farm Vernon Council of Citizens Associ- pervisors has not worked nor in- SOCIETY went public on Sept. passion for horticulture and her under its historic zoning authori- ation. cluded AHS in the process. 4, 2020 with its plans to sell the devotion to River Farm, which she ty. Gov. Ralph Northam offered an “A one time chance to save a “Alarming and unnecessary,” Mc- See Helping, Page 12 10 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News A Lasting Legacy
From Page 4 to live with her son and his wife in an active museum open to aid anyone in need of help. living community. She became a maker of Dowell developed a conservation plan fleece blankets for charity and a seamstress Granahan called the rezoning clas- for the earthwork fort, one of the first such of hundreds of cloth face masks for numer- sification. initiatives developed for earthwork fortifica- ous nonprofit organizations. “I reiterate my request for you to tions and was invited to lecture on the topic Dowell was an active member in James take a little more time. A historic at an American Association of Museums na- River Baptist Church in Williamsburg, and overlay district should not be nec- tional conference. She lectured on small mu- she continued to be a member of the First essary,” he said. “Work with AHS seum management topics for the Virginia As- Baptist Church of Alexandria. for 60-90 days. If successful, it cer- sociation of Museums and The Smithsonian. A memorial service was held April 14 at tainly will be worth the time.” Dowell went on to be recognized nation- National Memorial Park Cemetery in Falls Jay Spiegel was the lone voice ally for her preservation and restoration Church. A memorial service at James River from the public that objected to efforts, and her numerous awards include Baptist in Williamsburg will be held at a lat- the historic overlay district. He the prestigious James R. Short Award from er date. said AHS has been the steward of the Southeastern Museums Conference for Dowell is survived by her son James and the land for the last 50 years and “distinguished lifetime service to the muse- his wife Terry. She is predeceased by her called the Board of Supervisors’ um profession.” She used her expertise in husband James W. Dowell, brother James action, “a strange way to show ap- education and fundraising to develop sym- Thorpe, and parents Clyde and Marie Thor- preciation.” posia, historical camp events, programs for pe. Remembrances in her name can be made children, educational programs and special to Alice Lloyd College, 100 Purpose Road, BUT NOVA PARKS, Northern Vir- events. Pippa Passes, KY 41844, under the Wanda S. ginia Conservation Trust, and their Following her retirement, Dowell re- Dowell Endowment Fund. partners made an offer to buy Riv- mained a member of the Friends of Fort But it is through Fort Ward where Dowell er Farm earlier this year, but the Ward and served as an officer for the Civil will be remembered in Alexandria. AHS Board rejected the offer, look- War Roundtable of Alexandria. She was an “Fort Ward is a unique museum,” Dowell ing for their original asking price active member of the First Baptist Church said when honored as a Living Legend. “It is of $32.9 million. of Alexandria, delivered Meals On Wheels, one of the best teaching tools that we have “We deeply appreciate the inter- volunteered at The Clothing Closet for those and gives the public a whole new perspec- est of NOVA Parks in River Farm in need, sang with the Jubilee Singers, par- tive on what happened here. We have a re- and their proposal to purchase an ticipated in mission trips to Cayman Brac sponsibility to see that it is preserved and I option on the property, which if and was a volunteer exercise instructor for am proud that Alexandria interprets our his- exercised, would involve payments seniors. tory – the good, the bad and the ugly – with to AHS over several years. We de- In 2017, Dowell moved to Williamsburg integrity.” liberated carefully over the propos- al and its terms and concluded that their offer as currently written sim- ply does not meet AHS’s needs,” Same Company, Same Employees, according to AHS Board Chair Ter- ry Hayes, at the time. Same Great Value - Now Celebrating 20 Years! No counter offer was made nor discussion how to keep the proper- ty open to the public. TWO POOR TEACHERS Local agent Sue Goodhart of Compass Real Estate Group in Al- exandria listed the farm for sale, Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime op- portunity to own 27 plus acres of riverfront property.” Bob Brackman, Interim Execu- tive Director of River Farm said, “Once River Farm is sold, AHS will determine the best location for the headquarters to serve and build our national audience.” McGranahan appeared to con- vince Pat Herrity to abstain from voting yesterday. “To move this forward without AHS input today is a mistake and sets a dangerous precedent,” said Herrity. “I can’t vote against this • Electrical (ELE) because I support the goals, but I Fully Insured & Class A Licensed can’t vote for it because I can’t sup- • Gas Fitting (GFC) Since 1999 10% down port the process.” • Heating Ventilation and Air nothing until the job Storck said he had five meet- Conditioning (HVA) is complete for the ings and phone calls with the AHS past 17 years Board, members, the attorney and • Plumbing (PLB) others. • Residential Building (RBC) “Many of them support our pro- cess,” said Storck. Free Estimates 703-999-2928 Check if your contractor is licensed at the state level AMERICAN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY went public on Sept. http://www.DPOR.virginia.gov 4, 2020 with its plans to sell the Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com See Helping, Page 12 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 v 11 News He Had Their Backs: Harold Bell ‘Inside Sports’
By Char McCargo Bah advocating for NFL All-Pro Willie Alexandria Gazette Packet Wood and NBA pioneer Earl Lloyd to be inducted into their respec- arold Bell was the first tive Halls of Fame after they were African American to “Blackballed” by their leagues. host and produce his When Lloyd called Bell asking Hown Sports Talk Radio him to campaign for his induc- show, “Inside Sports,” in Washing- tion into the NBA Hall of Fame, ton, DC from 1972 through the he in turn called Auerbach and 1990s. On his “Inside Sports’’ radio then-Washington Times sports show he interviewed some of the columnist Dick Heller for support. most famous athletes in pro sports. His next call was to an old friend, In 1975, Bell interviewed Mu- civil rights icon Congressman John hammed Ali after he knocked out Lewis, to be on the campaign team George Foreman in Zaire, Africa, for Lloyd. on NBC affiliate During the NBA All-Star week- The Other WRC-TV 4, in end in Washington, DC in 2001, Alexandria Washington, DC. Bell’s nonprofit organization “Kids This made him In Trouble” organized an Earl Lloyd Harold Bell. the first African Day in Alexandria. The Saturday Washingtonian. Bell attended high American to host and produce his festival included a basketball clin- school at Spingarn where he was own television sports special in ic at Charles Houston Recreation an all-around athlete playing three prime time. Center. NBA stars Bob Lanier, Al sports. After high school, Bell at- His interviews and friendship Attles, KC Jones, Sam Jones, Earl tended college and played football with Ali and Red Auerbach put his Monroe and others attended. and basketball. He met his wife in “Inside Sports” talk show on the Then-Governor James Gilmore 1967 and they married after the map. Bell also interviewed nation- declared it “Earl Lloyd Day” in the DC riots in 1968. al sports figures like Jim Brown, From left, Earl, his wife and Harold. state of Virginia. The historic jazz Today, Bell has his own weekly Spencer Haywood, Harry Edwards, and blues club, “The Bohemian Hill. Another passion of Bell is help- program, “Speak the Truth” Zoom Sonny Hill, Don King, Bighouse Caverns” in Washington, DC, was Lloyd was inducted into the NBA ing at-risk inner city children. Show every Sunday and Inside Gaines and John Chaney, just to the site that closed out the Earl Hall of Fame in 2003 thanks to the Bell and his wife Hattie founded Sports Detoxx video show on You- name a few. These relationships Lloyd festival with Auerbach as efforts of Lewis, Auerbach and Kids In Trouble, Inc., and the Hill- Tube. In addition, he is a popular became valuable when Bell was host and basketball legend Sonny Bell who carried the torch for the crest Saturday Program in 1968 blogger for Black Men in America. NBA pioneer. shortly after the Washington, DC com. Bell was no stranger to the City riots. The program served neigh- of Alexandria; he worked closely borhood kids and their families. Char McCargo Bah is a published with “The Untouchable” founders, Their work with at-risk children author, freelance writer, indepen- George Logan-El, Lawrence Brown did not go unnoticed; President dent historian, genealogist and a and Michael Johnson. They helped Richard M. Nixon invited them to Living Legend of Alexandria. She him coordinate his annual toy par- the White House. maintains two blogs, http://www. ty for needy children leading into Harold Bell was born on May theotheralexandria.com and http:// the Christmas holidays. 21, 1938; he is a fourth generation www.findingthingsforu.com. Board Approves Historic Zoning for River Farm
From Page 10 to pass on the stewardship of Riv- Horticulturalist Society, helped the property, and continues to defend er Farm, we share the community’s organization purchase the proper- its decision. The majority of its hope of finding a new owner who ty and make it the headquarters Board, they said, called the sale, will work to preserve and protect of the society under the condition “the most viable option to allow this beautiful and historic property.” that the property remain open to for the continuation of our nation- the public and in honor of former al nonprofit during very difficult GEORGE WASHINGTON AC- president George Washington, of financial times,” said Terry Hayes, QUIRED the 27.57-acre property the nation’s first great gardeners AHS Board Chair. at 7931 East Boulevard Drive in and horticulturalists. “Like many national, mem- 1760, when it was called Clifton’s The property was named River ber-based nonprofits, our revenue Neck. Farm. streams are being reduced by the After a series of different own- “AHS has long sought to make on-line habits of a population out- ers and different names, the Soviet River Farm a living representa- side our traditional community. Embassy offered to buy the proper- tion of its principles and organiza- … With the added financial strain ty in 1971 for use as a retreat for tional vision of raising awareness caused by COVID-19, we have re- its staff. But during the Cold War, about and fostering sustainable, evaluated our priorities.” “many across the world objected earth-friendly gardening and hor- “The proceeds from the sale of to the thought of George Washing- ticultural practices. Thus, we were River Farm will be used to create a ton’s farm becoming the possession greatly shocked and saddened by significant endowment which has of the Soviet Union,” according to the news on September 4, 2020 been the missing link in our finan- Board of Supervisors documents. that the AHS Board of Directors in- cial viability. And so, the time has Philanthropist Enid Annenberg tended to sell the River Farm prop- come,” said Hayes. “As we prepare Haupt, a member of the American erty,” Storck said. 12 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Letters Classified WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM From Page 6 To Advertise in This Paper, Call by Monday 11:00 am 703-778-9411 tax to protect our small businesses in Old Town and established the Legals Announcements Announcements Senior Advocacy Roundtable. As our next mayor, Allison Sil- berberg will build upon these ac- ABC LICENSE complishments and tackle new Potomac Yard Fine Wine Inc. trading as Total Wine & More, 3901 Richmond Highway, problems, including a firm com- Alexandria, VA 22305. The above establish- mitment to stop our serious sew- ment is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPART- MENT OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CON- age and storm water flooding. She TROL (ABC) for a Wine and Beer Off-Premise will rebuild the public trust that and Keg with Delivery Permit license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. has frayed under the current may- Thomas A. Haubenstricker, Secretary/Trea- or. surer. NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no Allison Silberberg is the best later than 30 days from the publishing date mayoral candidate to mobilize our of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at energies and talents in the City’s www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200. interests. We want a mayor who solves problems and listens to the City’s residents and its citizens’ as- An expert is someone who knows some of sociations. Allison is the candidate the worst mistakes that can be made in who will get things done and will his subject and how to avoid them. do so with transparency, truth, and -Werner Heisenberg Announcements Announcements ethics. She has a demonstrated track record on the City’s issues. Announcements Announcements Allison is the Mayor you can trust.
Sue Berryman, Alexandria Linda Bogaczyk, Alexandria Who Should Pay Reparations? In attempting to advance a case for reparations, Elisabeth Vodola blurs what should be a bright line between the U.S. and Britain. Her examples of New England slave- holding primarily predate Ameri- can independence, so are properly Announcements Announcements a British liability. Among the reasons Americans objected to British rule was King George III’s repeatedly blocking, Announcements Announcements directly by dissolving colonial legislatures or indirectly through his appointed colonial governors’ vetoes, efforts to curtail the slave trade. Massachusetts’ legislature voted in 1767 to abolish the slave trade, but the King’s appointee, Colonial Governor Bernard, vetoed it; the legislature repeated in 1768, but the colonial governor instead dissolved the legislature; again in 1771 the legislature voted to abol- ish the slave trade, but Colonial Governor Hutchinson vetoed it; and again in 1773 the legislature passed a resolution against the slave trade, only to find it nixed. Then in 1774, the Massachusetts legislature escalated, passing a bill calling for total abolition; Co- lonial Governor Hutchinson had had enough and simply shut down the elected government, which soon was replaced by British Army occupation. https://american- systemnow.com/guess-who-insist- ed-on-slavery-in-colonial-ameri- ca/?print=print. Surely, just like nowadays, the folks with means, which in those days having “life- time servants” would suggest, im- An expert is someone who knows some pressed upon the King and Gover- of the worst mistakes that can be made nor what a burden such legislation in his subject and how to avoid them. -Werner Heisenberg See Letters, Page 14 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 v 13 Hitting The Nail Letters to the Editor
Business From Page 13 On the Head setts-a-leader-in-the-abolition-of-slavery/ would bring, especially to Massachusetts’ In 1769 Richard Henry Lee, who would, By KENNETH B. LOURIE Directory leading export manufacture and shipping at the Second Continental Congress, make What are all these “Toe Nail Clipper” emails I industries. the motion to declare our independence receive nearly every day? And how do these senders WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM John Adams was so impressed with Thom- from Britain https://en.wikipedia.org/ know that I’m actually the perfect recipient. Toe nail as Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence wiki/Lee_Resolution, persuaded the Virgin- clippers and cuticle trimmers have been the bane of Call 703-549-0004 that he paraphrased some of its concepts ia legislature to place a heavy tariff on the my existence going back as far as I can remember. for advertising information And as recently as I care to mention, these two ac- in the Massachusetts constitution drawn importation of slaves, but the British Crown cessories have been front and center on my bedside up after independence, including, “All men suspended the action as harming a major table, in a drawer in my living room coffee table, are born free and equal, and have certain source of British revenue. The Virginia leg- in my car’s console/glove box and in any suitcase/ ELECTRICAL ELECTRICAL natural, essential, and unalienable rights; islature did the same in 1774, after a debate overnight bag I take with me out of town. The fact among which may be reckoned the right of in which George Mason argued that not only of what has been the matter with me is that I bit my should thecolony not have the slave trade, nails and trimmed my cuticles constantly, not out of enjoying and defending their lives and lib- appearance but due apparently, to some undiag- erties,” which enabled black slave Elizabeth but that Virginians should not profit from nosed mental condition, according to family and Freeman (aka Mum Bett) to sue for her free- slavery, but the King blocked it. In 1787 the friends who were subjected to my relentless pursuit dom in 1781. Relying on this phrasing, her U.S. Constitution abolished the slave trade of whatever ailed me. case prevailed before Massachusetts’ high- effective in 1808, a quarter century before The constant gnawing and “cuticlizing” of my est court in 1783 and served as legal prec- Britain ended its own slave trade. nails drove my parents nearly around the bend. Whatever they tried, which was not professional edent. By 1790, the U.S. census recorded If reparations for northern slavery are help, couldn’t stop the train, so to speak. Unfortu- no slaves in Massachusetts. Another lawsuit due, Britain -- not the U.S. -- would be re- nately, they weren’t alive to see me stop. What joy LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING in 1781 enabled blacks to obtain the right sponsible for paying them. they would have felt for this change. Exultation. Un- to vote in Massachusetts by relying on “no fortunately, the change occurred quite by accident taxation without representation.” www.bay- Dino Drudi and with no intent of mine. What happened was Alexandria that I was diagnosed with cancer, rather than make statebanner.com/2018/08/08/massachu- me a nervous wreck about my original “terminal” diagnosis, and bite my nails for a good reason, I just Wrong Solution on Parkway stopped, and it’s been over twelve years now. I still haven’t been to a manicurist, but I no longer scoff U.S. Park Service proposal to improve turn lane almost useless. It would be easier at the suggestion. And though neither of my parents Summer Cleanup... safety along the southern stretch of George to turn left off the Parkway if there were two lived to see me stop biting my nails, they also both Washington Parkway as described in April 8 south bound lanes even without a left turn died before learning about my lung cancer diagno- sis, for which I was extremely grateful. Gazette is the wrong solution and will make lane. Further I have been to the U.S. Park Aside from the obvious reason why my mother the Parkway less safe. The problem that Service listening sessions and while they pro- would have been upset about her “baby” being di- causes accidents, besides speeding, is get- posed many solutions to improve safety, this agnosed with lung cancer was the fact that through- ting onto the Parkway with left hand turns. was never one publicly suggested. Therefore out my childhood, my mother smoked four packs The “diet” solution creates a left turn lane I ask all our neighbors to complain to the of Chesterfield Kings every day. Then suddenly, she to help get cars off the Parkway. When the U.S. Park Service to relook this unsafe pro- stopped, cold turkey, the coldest you can imagine. It happened in the early 60s when the anti-smoking problem is getting on the Parkway safely the posal and have another listening session to campaign about the association between smoking Park Service proposes a solution to get off discuss better ways to improve safety. cigarettes and lung cancer began in earnest in this the Parkway. With only a single lane heading country. From that point forward, my mother never south during business times there could be a Thomas Gerard wavered in her commitment. There were no more steady stream of cars making the left hand Mount Vernon cigarettes and she lived to age 87, almost, when she Landscape Drainage Landscape Drainage died from natural causes, not cancer. Bulletin Board Oddly enough, it was her non-smoking son, yours truly, who was diagnosed with lung cancer, From Page 5 Please observe posted “No Parking” restrictions part of an ever increasing percentage (upwards of Mulch Delivery or Pickup: The City is currently accepting orders for a limited supply of wood on street sweeping blocks, as well as any 25% most recently) of non-smokers so diagnosed. temporary “No Parking” signs that may be Whether second hand smoke or environmental mulch made from previously collected Christ- mas trees. Once the supply of wood mulch is posted in some neighborhoods to help facil- exposure to certain chemicals, the numbers of lung itate debris removal. In the event of inclem- cancer patients who were non-smokers has been exhausted, leaf mulch will be available. Deliv- eries begin Monday, April 5, and run through ent weather, street sweeping will not occur; steadily increasing. And in a fortuitous twist of fate, June. Delivery dates and times are limited, however, parking restrictions still apply, as it was this increase specifically in the number of and appointments are on a first-come, first- Parking Enforcement follows the ordinance, non-smokers being diagnosed with cancer which served basis. There is a $65 delivery charge. not the weather. To request additional street led to a huge increase in research funding. Funding Free mulch is also available for residents to pick sweeping, use Alex311 or call 703-746-4311. which has spawned an increase in the numbers of up at 4215 Eisenhower Ave., Monday through drugs approved by the FDA which have directly af- Friday, from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. No commer- SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH fected my treatment and subsequent survival. Now cial vehicles and machinery are permitted at Throughout April, the City of Alexandria will what percentage of nail-biters are diagnosed with the mulch site; the area is under surveillance. recognize National Sexual Assault Awareness cancer, I can’t say. Call Alex311 to report a violation and call 911 Month with a series of events and activities to But this hyper-targeted email campaign - which for an immediate emergency. Visit alexandria- support survivors and engage the community features almost daily emails from people who are va.gov/YardWaste for more information. in prevention efforts. on a first-name basis with me and I them, according Spring Pothole Patrol: The City began repairing The City’s Sexual Assault Center (SAC) is sponsor- to their sender’s name, is remarkable in its having potholes early this year, but the official spring ing displays, exhibits, workshops and events reached a prime candidate, and one with a history pothole patrol begins Monday, April 5. Alex- to raise awareness of sexual assault and of having used imperfect and/or failed implements andria is divided into 11 zones and crews will support survivors around this year’s theme, for this very purpose. If anybody would appreciate work diligently on multiple zones at a time “Together We Can Build Safe Communities.” the possibilities of this product, the relief it might to ensure each zone gets one pass. This is a Highlights include: provide, it would be me. If my mother were alive to- moving operation and residents should expect Embrace Your Voice: Annual Poetry Share, in day, I’m sure she’d agree, nobody ever bit their nails periodic lane closures throughout the city. partnership with Doorways for Women and more than I did. That’s how I learned the meaning The spring pothole patrol only covers major Families and Friends of Guest House, April of the word “quick: “the soft-tender flesh below the street networks and does not include public 20, 6 p.m. (hosted online this year) growing part of a fingernail or toenail.” alleys and parking spaces. Virtual Dating App Safety and Education Presen- tation, debuts April 14 at alexandriava.gov/ With all the self-consciousness I endured while After the spring pothole patrol, which is estimat- ed to be completed by Friday, April 30, resi- SexualViolence nail-biting (and the visual condition of my fingers as dents should report potholes using Alex311 or Virtual Run/Walk, in partnership with the U.S. a result), I wish I could take credit for having figured by calling 703.746.4311. Visit alexandriava. Navy, during the last week of April out the underlying cause, or had found a topical gov/Potholes for more information. The SAC also invites the community to support solution and/or a hypnotic suggestion that would Street Sweeping: Citywide street sweeping survivors of sexual assault by wearing teal on help me stop. But I didn’t. Apparently, the cancer began March 1, and will take approximately the Sexual Assault Awareness Month Day of made me stop, and not even consciously. To quote 12 weeks to complete one pass of cleaning. Action on Wednesday, April 7, and by wearing the late B.B.King: “The thrill is gone.” Crews keep neighborhoods and commercial jeans on Denim Day, Wednesday, April 28. corridors clean and protect waterways from Residents can also pick up coffee sleeves debris runoff by regularly sweeping 560 lane printed with this year’s slogan at local par- Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for miles. The street sweeping program includes ticipating coffee shops. For more information The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. three major groups: commercial sweeping, no and a full list of events and activities, visit parking sweeping, and residential sweeping. alexandriava.gov/SexualViolence. 14 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v April 15-21, 2021 v 15 McEnearney Associates has always had one motto in mind... not to be the biggest, but the best. For more than 40 years, our Associates have lived in and supported Alexandria, 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
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