Democrats Choose Northern Virginia Ticket

HomeLifeStyle Page 12 Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A Connection Newspaper June 10, 2021 Democrats Choose Northern Virginia Ticket Primary voters select candidates with gender and racial diversity but Photo by Michael Lee Pope/The Connection lacking in regional TerryMcAuliffe Primary for Governor balance. v Terry McAuliffe: 302,000 votes, 62 percent v Jennifer Carroll Foy: 96,000 votes, 20 percent By Michael Lee Pope v Jennifer McClellan: 56,000 votes, 12 percent Gazette Packet v Justin Fairfax: 17,000 votes, 4 percent v Lee Carter: 13,000 votes, 3 percent s election returns started rolling in from the Democratic primary Tuesday, Republicans started Aboasting about having the most diverse statewide ticket in Virginia history. Although Democrats nominated a candidate for lieutenant governor who describes herself as an “Afro Latina, Lebanese, Irish wom- Democrats celebrate former Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s victory Tuesday night in McLean. an,” Republicans can boast they have a ticket that has candidates from Northern Virginia Hala Ayala and Hampton Roads, two parts of the state Primary for Lieutenant Governor where voters will determine the winner of v Hala Ayala: 176,000 votes, 38 percent v the next election. Sam Rasoul: 114,000 votes, 24 percent v Mark Levine: 53,000 votes, 11 percent “That would work if Republicans were not v Jennifer McClellan: 50,000 votes, 11 percent selling white supremacy and white national- v Sean Perryman: 38,000 votes, 8 percent ism,” said David Ramadan, a former Repub- v Xavier Warren: 20,000 votes, 4 percent lican delegate who’s now at George Mason v Elizabeth Guzman: 20,000 votes, 4 percent University’s Schar School. “Minorities are not going to vote for Republicans because of what they saw in the last 10 years.” At the top of the ticket is former Gov. Ter- ry McAuliffe of McLean, who’s trying to ac- complish something that’s been done only once — return for a second term. Virginia is the only state in the country that prohib- its its governor from running for reelection. The only other governor to be elected to a Mark Herring second non-consecutive term was Mills God- Primary for Attorney General win, who had one term as a Democrat in the Turnout in this year’s Democratic primary was higher than 2009, when Republican v Mark Herring: 268,000 votes, 57 percent 1960s and one term as a Republican in the Bob McDonnell became governor. But it was lower than 2017, when Democrat Ralph v Jay Jones: 206,000 votes, 43 percent 1970s. Northam was elected governor. McAuliffe is essentially running on a platform of extending the administration he liffe supporters say his campaign will be derson (R-51), who is now the chairman of most diverse set of candidates ever assem- handed off to Ralph Northam four years ago, about protecting access to health care, re- the Republican Party of Virginia. Late in the bled on a statewide ballot. although this time he would not be facing ducing gun violence, ensuring economic re- campaign, Ayala broke her pledge to resist “Hala Ayala is closer to shattering one of a hostile Republican-controlled General As- covery and addressing climate change. After taking campaign cash from Dominion Ener- the highest glass ceilings in Virginia elected sembly. the former governor secured the nomination gy and received $100,000 from the utility office, which would be a triumph for the en- “Throughout his time as governor, Ter- Tuesday night, Youngkin called McAuliffe a monopoly that many Democrats say exerts tire Latino community,” said Nathalie Rayes, ry implemented bold initiatives to create “career politician who pretends to be a busi- too much control over Virginia politics. president and CEO of the Latino Victory good-paying jobs and expand economic op- nessman.” “Hala Ayala made news in the last days of Fund. “As the state grapples with the dispar- portunity across the commonwealth,” said “Taking their enthusiasm for recycling to a her campaign for being a liar,” said House ities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandem- New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, new extreme, Democrats are offering Virgin- Republican Leader Todd Gilbert. “Democrats ic, Hala will work to root out these inequi- chairwoman of the Democratic Governors ians two-thirds of their 2013 ticket, hoping continue to be saddled with internal fighting ties by focusing on priority issues such as Association. “Now, as Virginia rebuilds fol- voters will see it as new and improved,” said over who should bankroll their campaigns.” expanding access to affordable health care lowing the pandemic, Terry will work as Senate Republican Leader Tommy Norment. If elected, Ayala would be the first wom- and creating an economy that works for all governor to create an economy that works “Virginians are a lot smarter than the Dem- an elected lieutenant governor and the first Virginians.” for all Virginians and uplift those who have ocrats think.” woman of color elected stateside in Virgin- been hit the hardest.” ia history. On the campaign trail, she often ATTORNEY GENERAL Mark Herring was McAuliffe is a wealthy Northern Virgin- DEMOCRATS HEAD INTO the fall election talks about her hardscrabble journey from able to beat back a challenge from Del. Jay ia businessman who will be facing another season with a ticket that features two sea- working at a gas station for minimum wage Jones (D-89), who is seen as a rising star wealthy Northern Virginia businessman, soned statewide politicians and a newcomer while pregnant to developing a career in cy- in the party. Republicans have already sig- Glenn Youngkin, who has already pumped who rose to power in the wave election of bersecurity. She won with 38 percent of the naled that they’ll be going after Herring for $12 million into his own campaign. McAu- 2017. Ayala unseated former Del. Rich An- vote in a crowded field that included the See Democrats Choose, on Page 9 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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Influencer Marketing is the Next Thing for Products and Businesses The outfits, dinner recipes, jewelry and selfies on Instagram are part of the process.

By Mike Salmon ley Williams, another Aldi fan who learned so much from starting the The Connection she knows through online contact. other two channels, I applied that “I’ve made some online friends experience to Oh Hey Walmart and arketing via social through it,” Mills said. Williams it took off,” Williams said. media now has a face, also promotes Aldi things, and Photos contributed or a bunch of faces in they both get incentives through Influencers at the Chamber Mthe form of “influ- the commercial entities that make Bonnie Taylor, the Chief Market- encers,” who can get dolled up, sit the products, not Aldi. ing Strategist at CSS Innovations, back and take a selfie wearing the Williams is an influencer with works with the Northern Virginia latest, put it out there for the world several outlets in addition to Al- Chamber of Commerce market- to see, and collect a paycheck. It’s di’s including Sam’s Club, and ing department and has seen the called “influencer” marketing, Walmart. “It’s a fantastic way for influencer culture there too. The and is defined as a form of social influencers have media market- the name, and One of the pictures off the Hey Influencers Instagram page. ing involving “When you build a relationship with businesses like endorsements big names be- and product your audience, they trust you when hind their prod- placement from ucts. “Social influencers who you recommend a product, which is media influenc- have a purport- ers are not too ed expert level why it is important to maintain their different from of knowledge or pitch people or social influence trust and put your word behind only celebrities used in their field. in advertising or Alexandria products you really support.” other promotion- resident Heather –Ashley Williams al efforts,” Taylor Mills found her said. Budgeting niche with Aldi for social me- grocery stores and recipes she’s brands to market their products,” dia influencer marketing would made and now has 56,000 follow- she said. Williams builds an audi- be very similar. “The difference Alexandria influencer Heather ers. ence and gains their trust by put- with social media influencer mar- Mills created this spicy chicken “You need to have a passion,” ting out things on Instagram, and keting is that the influencer often sandwich from Aldi’s ingredients Alexandria influencer Heather she said, and her passion started that became the basis of her job uses his or her own platform and and then posted it to her page, Mills loves to share her cooking with Aldi grocery stores, and then as an influencer. It’s grown from brand, rather than having the busi- like she has with other recipes. secrets on Instagram. branched out to the food recipes there. “When you build a rela- ness budget for advertising costs, she makes from her Aldi foods. It tionship with your audience, they filming or design production, etc.” pouty lips and perfect hair showing ity with the reader. is a side gig for Mills, and she ad- trust you when you recommend a Could the influencer expense be off a new line of make-up, another Hey Influencers was started by mits that the swag bags and free product, which is why it is import- a line item in the company’s mar- taking a selfie in the mirror, and Gretta van Riel, and used her 16 samples the companies send her ant to maintain their trust and put keting budget? Taylor has seen various hats and sunglasses shots million combined followers on In- is part of the fun too. Her passion your word behind only products this work. “If the business can find at tropical locales. On the page stagram to learn how to leverage for cooking, food photography and you really support,” she said via a worthy influencer within their are clips from text conversations: the power of social media influ- Instagram are enough to keep her email. “I started Oh Hey Walmart space it’s a logical budget item,” “Crazy how I planned a bunch of encers to build a successful brand, at it, and the latest recipe she’s in December 2020, I was already she said. stuff to do today but now that it’s their website says. Some of her tried is Red Bag Chicken, and now running @ohheysamsclub and @ A marketing agency called “Hey raining, I legally cannot” said one. successes include companies like it has “a cult following,” she said. ohheyaldi and really enjoyed it. Influencers” has a page on Insta- “A parcel a day keeps the sadness “SkinnyMe Tea,” “Drop Bottle,” She knows Aldi influencers from I felt like Walmart carries some gram full of influencers doing their away,” said another. This is a con- “Skintox Co” and “The 5th Watch- all over the country, including Ash- good gems that could be dug up. I stuff. This includes a model with versation of sorts to build familiar- es.” Bulletin Board Marijuana Legalization Topic Submit civic/community announcements opened McCutcheon/Mt. Vernon As a bonus, the market will match at ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Pho- Farmers Market. From 8 a.m. to up to $20 per market visit in SNAP tos and artwork welcome. Deadline is Thurs- noon every Wednesday (through dollars for fruits and vegetables. At Chamber Morning Briefing day at noon, at least two weeks before event. December 22), 16 local farmers and This year’s vendors are: food producers will sell fresh, locally Arnest Seafood – crab cakes, scallops, oin Mount Vernon Policy Advisor to Governor TUESDAY/JUNE 15 grown vegetables and fruits; meats; shrimp, rockfish, oysters and more MV Genealogical Society Meeting. Chesapeake Bay seafood; breads Grace’s Pastries - cakes, pastries and Lee Chamber of Com- Ralph Northam on impacts and pastries; honey, jams and jellies; breads, with a Caribbean touch merce for the Morning to business and the commu- 1-3 p.m. Via Zoom. Legal Scholar J Natalie Ram will discuss the legal milk, cheese and eggs; herbs and Great Harvest Bread - breads and Briefing on Thursday, June nity. landscape of consumer genetic data plants; and more. The market is lo- pastries 17, 8:30 am, for a discus- This will be a virtual meet- during the June 15 meeting of the cated at the Sherwood Hall Regional Honey Brook Farms - meats and veg- Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane. etables raised with no chemicals, sion on marijuana legaliza- ing. For more information or Mount Vernon Genealogical Society. Email: [email protected] All of the items sold at the market gluten-free baked goods tion in Virginia. Del. Paul to register please visit www. are grown or produced by the ven- House of Empanadas –variety of em- Krizek will facilitate a dis- MtVernon-LeeChamber.org dors and come from within a radius panadas ONGOING cussion with Megan Field, or call 703-360-6925. of 125 miles. King Mushrooms –variety of locally Local, farm-fresh produce – including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Pro- grown mushrooms strawberries and asparagus –and gram (SNAP) EBT cards can be used. more will be featured at the now- See Bulletin, Page 5 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 v 3 News Novelties and Gifts Share Space with Fun At Highs and Lows in Hybla Valley, behind the door with five knobs, local artists and Pac Man scream nostalgia. By Mike Salmon The Connection

ehind the counter, all calls to the “Highs and Lows Gifts and Thrifts,” shop Bare answered on a Mickey Mouse phone with push button di- aling, one of the many throwbacks in the latest Mount Vernon gift store along Richmond Highway. A look inside is a flashback to 1987, or somewhere around there. “We’re trying to bring back the The feel-good atmosphere attracts a following in Hybla Valley. nostalgia,” said a new employee Alex Blas, an alumna of Hayfield Secondary, which is right down the street. The walls are covered with pictures, action heroes, tee shirts, and artwork from local artists. There’s even a Pac Man game that still works, and they let shoppers The Mickey Mouse phone is sit down and play a few games, as getting replaced by a real pay they mentally travel back to that phone they’ll install on the wall. time. Behind the counter is what looks like a Pepsi Cola vending machine, but it’s really the front of an Fresh is a child of the 1980s and old machine that now acts as the 90s from Los Angeles and there are door to the employee area in the signs of the west coast all over the back. shop. “It brings in a new kind of This was the brainstorm of the flavor to our area,” he said. owner, who goes by the name One way he gives back to the “Fresh,” who got the idea from a community is cleaning up the show like “Get Smart,” or the origi- street litter out front. The store is nal Batman shows where the book- only about 40 feet from the south- shelf magically swings open when bound travel lanes of Richmond a certain trick book is touched. Highway, and it gets litter on a dai- They also put five doorknobs on ly basis, but the folks at the store the front door- another one from a try to keep it in check. Looking 1970s sitcom. after the environment is another Clara, one of the clerks, holds a Rocky Horror “You can’t take it all in on one mission they have, and he rides Picture Show tee shirt. sitting,” Fresh said of the store. his skateboard to work when he The idea is to link his shop with doesn’t feel like driving. the up-and-coming pop world that “We’re not trying to be sorry, teens are into, and the surround- we’re trying to be better,” Fresh ing community. said. One of the artists they feature is a woman named Ju Ju, who Still Computer Savy A sit-down Pac Man game dates back to they discovered selling her art When dealing with nostalgia the early 1980s. in the parking lot about a block and the new generation, the inter- away from the store. Now they are net plays a big role, and Blas said Photos by Mike Salmon/Gazette displaying several of her works, this is where many see the old toys, alongside other locals. “Another figurines and tee shirt designs that artist came from the Great South- are on sale at the store. Take the line,” he added. ern Tattoo shop,” right down the Rocky Horror Picture Show tee They’re big on Instagram too, street, Fresh said. shirts they sell, with Frankenfurt- and recently started a Facebook The door to er on the front for example. Does page, but even Facebook is taking the back room anyone remember him singing on an “old school,” feel around the is from a real Highs and Lows “Sweet Transvestite,” in the 1977 store. The Mickey Mouse phone is soda machine. movie? Possibly not, but they have on its way out too. Fresh found an Gifts and Thrifts seen him online, and that’s what old pay phone on a trip to Rich- 6436 Richmond Highway hooks the new fans. “More old mond, and will soon have it hang- Alexandria school stuff is coming back,” said ing on the wall, wired to the store’s On Instagram @HIGHSANDLOWS703 Blas, “anything that is related online for business calls. 4 v Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Rex Reiley RE/MAX Allegiance Levine Is One of Five Incumbents Defeated 703-768-7730 [email protected]

Two-term House member tried to Vienna/Acadia Condo $404,900 9480 Virginia Center Blvd. Unit 120 Beautiful 2BR, 2BA Condo located in South Vienna. run double campaign, losing both. Good Sized Bedrooms each with their own walk-in closet and bath. Kitchen is open to the eating area and family room & has beautiful corian countertops. Attractive here’s a reason why candi- laminated flooring through the kitchen, family room dates have never tried run- Elizabeth Bennett Parker: 9,310 votes, 59 percent and hallways. Don’t miss the office station and the Tning in two different Dem- Mark Levine: 6,402 votes, 41 percent lovely balcony off the family room. 2 convenient garage spaces below are reserved for this ocratic primaries at the same time. unit. Tremendous community amenities highlighted by a wonderful swimming pool, gym, recreational room and office room. Finally, a perfect location with quick and easy access to Voters clearly don’t like it. Rt. 66, 495 and Rt. 50. If you want to leave your car behind, a quick 2 block walk will put you That’s why Del. Elizabeth Guz- in third place and losing his House Del. Lee Carter (D-50) came in at the Vienna Metro Station. This wonderful property can be yours to enjoy!! man (D-31) dropped out of the seat to challenger Elizabeth Ben- last place in the Democratic prima- Alex/Engleside $1,200,000 race for lieutenant governor when nett Parker. ry for governor while also losing 8734 Lukens Lane it appeared that she would likely “Whatever the future lies for me, his house seat to Michelle Maldo- SOLD4.128 acres zones R-2 for sale. There are 2 lots: 4/0 acres w/house lose her House I know I will never stop speaking nado. (Tax Map 1101 01 0043) and .128 acre vacant land (1101 01 0043A). House on House district if she out against injustice,” said Levine. Ibraheem Samirah (D-86) and Property sold “AS IS” and NO ACCESS given or allowed. Land Value only. Water, sewer, stayed in the “I still believe if you’re persistent Del. Steve Heretick (D-79) also gas, electricity available. This land is adjacent to the houses on Halley Farm Ct. which were District 45 built in the 2010–2011-time frame. statewide race. and creative, get the details right, lost to challengers this week. On But Del. Mark and work with others of good will, the Republican side, Del. Charles Arlington/Golf Club Manor $1,300,000 Levine (D-45) stayed in the fight even the toughest problems can be Poindexter (R-9) lost to challenger 3942 Upland Street Charming 5-bedroom, 3 bath raised rambler w/spacious for lieutenant governor, finishing solved.” Wren Williams. SOLD TWO car garage nestled in sought after Golf Club Manor neighborhood. In the last five years, kitchen appliances were updated to stainless steel, recessed lighting added, custom Bulletin Board built ins & closets throughout, remodeled laundry room (new washer/dryer) & office. Custom mudroom added off garage entry. Newly refinished hdwd floors on main level & brand new, top-of-the-line Carrier HVAC system as of 2020. Traditional floor plan allows From Page 3 variety of freshly roasted coffee Virginia (LCNV) is hosting for a seamless flow throughout. The exposed brick off the kitchen in the family room adds so much Locust Grove Farm - vegetables and Twin Springs Orchard - fruits, vegeta- beginning-level adult English charm. The living & family room/breakfast area glisten w/natural light courtesy of all the windows & herbs bles, cheese and more language classes from February two large sliding glass doors. The sliders open to the side & bkyd where the back deck AND patio are Misty Meadow Farm Creamery - Valentine’s Bakery & Meats - meats to May. Due to the continued perfect for entertaining while still leaving ample grassy area for any kind of bkyd hobby. The spacious milk, ice cream, cheese and eggs and baked goods. situation of COVID-19, classes bkyd is fully fenced-in allowing for privacy. Gorgeous landscaping & brick bordered driveway (spacious No. 1 Sons– pickles, kimchi, sauer- for the spring semester will be enough for 2 additional cars) provide beautiful curb appeal. Great location just off Glebe Road, minutes from the George Washington Pkwy & Chain Bridge Road NW allowing for a quick commute! kraut and kombucha teas ADULT ENGLISH held on virtual platforms only, Ochoa Produce - vegetables, herbs which require students to have and flowers LANGUAGE CLASSES Traveling Shepherd Coffee Co. – The Literacy Council of Northern See Bulletin, Page 10

Clara, one of the clerks, holds a Rocky Horror Picture Show tee shirt.

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Jeanne Theismann [email protected] FOUR SEASONS GREAT FALLS @TheismannMedia 300 International Drive #2501 119 Clarks Run Road Baltimore, MD Marcia Hobson Community Reporter Great Falls, VA [email protected] $2,999,000 $3,990,000 Mount Vernon High School class of 2021 graduation. Mike Salmon Alex Lerner At Mount Vernon High School class of 2021 graduation: Del. Paul Contributing Writer Michael Rankin +1 443 465 3715 [email protected] By: Delegate Paul Krizek ucation ranks as the 2nd largest Krizek, Sen. Scott Surovell, Supervisor Dan Storck, School Board +1 202 271 3344 Lydia Travelstead +1 410 869 2133 expenditure in the Virginia bud- members Karen Corbett Sanders and Tamara Derenak Kaufax. Ken Moore Contributing Writer ongratulations to all of get (behind health and human re- [email protected] the high school gradu- sources).

ates and their families Overall, $8.8 billion and $9.2 ADVERTISING: ROBINSON LANDING across the 44th district! billion was allocated to public edu- For advertising information LYON VILLAGE C [email protected] Over the past two weeks, I have cation for the 2021 and 2022 fiscal 304 S Union Street 1924 N Harvard Street had the opportunity to join my col- years respectively. $16.6 million 703-778-9431 Alexandria, VA Arlington, VA leagues and proud teachers, prin- was appropriated to supplement Debbie Funk CONTRACT PENDING Display Advertising/National Sales $1,997,750 cipals, and parents to attend and federal Temporary Assistance for $1,940,000 participate in the first in-person Needy Families (TANF) funds to 703-778-9444 [email protected] Lee Guerry high school graduation ceremo- support at-risk three and four year Heather Corey +1 703 969 3566 nies in our community since 2019 olds participating in the Virginia Helen Walutes +1 703 989 1183 at Mount Vernon High School and Preschool Initiative (VPI). Display Advertising, 703-778-9410 [email protected] West Potomac High School. I am The Get Skilled, Get a Job, Give also looking forward to joining Back (G3) Fund and Program David Griffin graduating seniors at Bryant High was signed into law, which makes Marketing Assistant 703-778-9431 ROBINSON LANDING ST. ASAPH SQUARE CONDOMINIUM School’s ceremony later this week. tuition-free community college [email protected] The ceremonies took place on the available to low-and middle-in- 16 Bakers Walk #104 801 S Pitt Street #219 football fields and went off - with come students who pursue jobs 2021 graduates of West Potomac High School toss their caps in the Classified & Employment Alexandria, VA Alexandria, VA Advertising out a hitch. Every speech, from in high-demand fields. The G3 air in celebration. 703-778-9431 $1,429,000 $625,000 both students and faculty, was in- program includes $36 million to $40 million in the second year of these specialized support posi- spirational and moving. I have the cover tuition, fees, and books and Heather Corey Heather Corey Publisher utmost confidence in the future provides wraparound support for were allocated to one-time pro- tions per 1,000 students. This bill +1 703 989 1183 +1 703 989 1183 grams and initiatives to address and a companion budget amend- Jerry Vernon when these incredible young lead- eligible students at the Common- 703-549-0004 ers are at the helm. wealth’s two-year public institu- learning loss experienced by stu- ment invests $50 million in these [email protected] After a year of uncertainty, it tions. The G3 program is also one dents due to the COVID-19 pan- positions, which are even more demic. These funds will continue necessary than ever to address the Editor & Publisher was uplifting to celebrate the re- of the first in the nation to provide Mary Kimm markable achievements of these financial assistance on expenses to help academic recovery as we lingering effects of the past year on [email protected] THE HENRY MOUNT VERNON

students who have sacrificed so such as food, transportation, and adapt to post-pandemic life. our students. @MaryKimm Aside from budgetary measures, 525 N Fayette Street #402 4013 Laurel Road much while completing their sec- child care. Through this new pro- Art/Design: Alexandria, VA Alexandria, VA ondary education during a global gram, an estimated 36,000 Virgin- the General Assembly also passed Laurence Foong, John Heinly, pandemic. While last year’s seniors ians will be able to earn degrees in several pieces of legislation to im- Ali Khaligh $569,000 $1,450,000 prove education for Virginia stu- Let Us Know Your View Production Manager: graduated virtually and saw many key industries such as health care, Connection Newspapers welcomes Geovani Flores of their events cancelled, this year information technology and com- dents. views on any public issue. Joanne Sawczuk Jennifer Lloyd Miller A long-awaited bill was passed + 1 703 328 5427 +1 703 345 4004 we thankfully saw our students puter science, manufacturing and Letters must be signed. Include home address CIRCULATION transition back into the classroom skilled trades, public safety, and which provides that students who and home and business numbers; Circulation Manager: we will only print your name and town name. after a year of at-home learning early childhood education. meet the criteria can be deemed el- Ann Oliver Letters are routinely edited for length, libel, grammar, [email protected] — albeit with distancing and mask Finally, our teachers and school igible for in-state tuition regardless of their citizenship or immigration good taste, civility and factual errors. requirements — and those aged staff deserve endless accolades for Send letters status. Now, all eligible students A Connection Newspaper RIVER OAKS LIVE OAKS 12 and up eligible to receive the their adaptability and creativity Online www.connectionnewspapers.com/contact/letter COVID-19 vaccine, making in-per- in educating our students in new who live in Virginia will be able to By email: [email protected] 620 Rivercrest Drive 658 Live Oak Drive continue their education without son instruction much safer for all ways during this past year. We can- By mail to: Letters to the Editor The Connection McLean, VA McLean, VA involved. With infection rates low- not thank them enough, but pro- undue financial hardship. 1606 King St., Alexandria VA 22314 Also, this year we passed The $11,497,000 $12,495,999 er than they have been for the first viding them with competitive pay You can comment on our School Equity and Staffing Act, time since March 2020 and an in- is a good way to start. This bien- Facebook page or find us on Twitter which addresses a long-standing Phyllis Patterson Phyllis Patterson creasing number of Virginians be- nial budget includes $80.1 million www.facebook.com/connectionnewspapers +1 703 408 4232 +1 703 408 4232 ing vaccinated against COVID-19 for a 2 percent bonus for teachers shortage of social workers, nurses https://twitter.com/alexgazette each day, it appears that these and support staff in 2022, and and mental health professionals in https://twitter.com/mtvernongazette https://twitter.com/followfairfax in-person events are here to stay. $153 million for a 5 percent pay Virginia public schools by ensuring that each school has at least three We made many significant -in increase for teachers, a step in the ALEXANDRIA BROKERAGE 400 SOUTH WASHINGTON STREET, ALEXANDRIA, VA 22314 | +1 703 310 6800 ttrsir.com vestments in our K-12 education right direction to elevating teacher Never miss an issue, get a free digital subscription, in this year’s budget. A budget pay to the national average. ©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. highlights what we value, and ed- $30 million in the first year and http://www.connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe/ 6 v Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.MountVernonGazette.com

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Jeanne Theismann [email protected] FOUR SEASONS GREAT FALLS @TheismannMedia 300 International Drive #2501 119 Clarks Run Road Baltimore, MD Marcia Hobson Community Reporter Great Falls, VA [email protected] $2,999,000 $3,990,000 Mike Salmon Alex Lerner Contributing Writer Michael Rankin +1 443 465 3715 [email protected] +1 202 271 3344 Lydia Travelstead Ken Moore +1 410 869 2133 Contributing Writer [email protected]

ADVERTISING: ROBINSON LANDING For advertising information LYON VILLAGE [email protected] 304 S Union Street 1924 N Harvard Street 703-778-9431 Alexandria, VA Arlington, VA

Debbie Funk CONTRACT PENDING Display Advertising/National Sales $1,997,750 $1,940,000 703-778-9444 [email protected] Lee Guerry Heather Corey +1 703 969 3566 Helen Walutes +1 703 989 1183 Display Advertising, 703-778-9410 [email protected]

David Griffin Marketing Assistant 703-778-9431 ROBINSON LANDING ST. ASAPH SQUARE CONDOMINIUM [email protected] 16 Bakers Walk #104 801 S Pitt Street #219 Classified & Employment Alexandria, VA Alexandria, VA Advertising 703-778-9431 $1,429,000 $625,000

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Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm [email protected] THE HENRY MOUNT VERNON @MaryKimm 525 N Fayette Street #402 4013 Laurel Road Art/Design: Alexandria, VA Alexandria, VA Laurence Foong, John Heinly, Ali Khaligh $569,000 $1,450,000 Production Manager: Geovani Flores Joanne Sawczuk Jennifer Lloyd Miller + 1 703 328 5427 +1 703 345 4004 CIRCULATION Circulation Manager: Ann Oliver [email protected]

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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 Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 v 7 Opinion Deaths of Vulnerable Road Users are Preventable Fairfax Alliance for Better Bicycling statement on bicyclist killed by a driver in Alexandria section of Fairfax County

By Bruce Wright also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers by phone he Fairfax Alliance for -1-866-411-TIPS ( 866-411-8477 Better Bicycling (FABB) ), by text – Type “FCCS” plus tip to extends its sympathy 847411. Anonymous tipsters are Tand condolences to the eligible for cash rewards of $100 family and friends of Fatima Del to $1000 dollars if their informa- Carmen Alvarez Romero. Accord- tion leads to an arrest. ing to the Fairfax County Police FABB encourages any witness- This part of Telegraph goes from two to six lanes at Franconia with narrow, old sidewalks. This is next Department (FCPD), on Thursday, es to the incident to come for- to a park, bus stops, on the way to Huntington metro station, a private school, churches. Poor street June 3, Ms. Alvarez Romero was ward and provide information to design is no excuse for excessive speed or inattentive driving riding her bike east in the cross- the FCPD. Unfortunately, when walk to cross Telegraph Road on a bicyclist is killed in this type of mond Buza, who was killed by a the south side of the Franconia crash, he or she does not have the driver in Centreville. Road intersection when she was opportunity to speak as a witness. Fairfax County is one of the only hit by the driver of a 2020 GMC FABB also encourages the FCPD to jurisdictions in the Washington, Savanna traveling north on Tele- undertake a comprehensive inves- D.C. metropolitan area that has graph. Ms. Alvarez Romero, 24, tigation so that there is justice for not adopted Vision Zero, a set of was pronounced dead at the scene. Ms. Alvarez Romero. policies designed to eliminate all Her family has started a gofundme Just hours after Ms. Alvarez traffic fatalities and severe - inju page to help ries, while increas- pay for her Fairfax County is one of the only ing safe, healthy, funeral ex- and equitable mobil- penses. www. jurisdictions in the area that has ity for all. We call on gofund- Fairfax County and me.com/f/ not adopted Vision Zero, designed the Virginia Depart- fatima-al- ment of Transporta- varezs-fu- to eliminate all traffic fatalities and tion to acknowledge neral-arrange- that the injuries and ments severe injuries, while increasing deaths of vulnera- The FCPD ble road users are states that its safe, healthy, and equitable mobility. preventable and to investigation act with urgency to remains ac- adopt much-needed tive and that safety measures. details of the investigation will Romero was killed at Telegraph About FABB: The Fairfax Alli- be presented to the Office of the and Franconia, a pedestrian was ance for Better Bicycling (FABB) is Commonwealth’s Attorney for re- hit and killed by a driver at the a non-profit organization devoted FABB: the injuries and deaths of vulnerable road users are view. Anyone with information nearby intersection of South Kings to making bicycling fun, safe, and preventable; Fairfax County should act with urgency to adopt about this crash is asked to con- Highway and Southgate Drive. accessible for people of all ages much-needed safety measures. Ghost bike roadside memorials like tact FCPD’s Crash Reconstruction These deaths come just two weeks and abilities in Fairfax County. this are placed where a cyclist has been killed or severely injured, Unit at 703-280-0543. Tips can after the death of bicyclist Ray- https://fabb-bikes.org/ usually by the driver of a motor vehicle.

Calendar

NOW THRU JUNE 27 “Birds of a Feather, which opens Ray Artisans (2704 Mount Vernon THURSDAY/JUNE 10 architecture and restoration of Timeless Tradition. 12-4 p.m. At on May 25, 2021 and runs through Avenue, Alexandria VA) unless “A Haunting Refrain: Jazz in June.” Carlyle House. This tour will The Athenaeum, 201 Prince June 27, 2021. The birds are back, noted. Details: DelRayArtisans.org/ 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. At The be offered on a monthly basis. Street, Alexandria. The copyist and they are celebrating. Themed programs/creative-summer/ Secret Garden of the Rectory, 711 Reservations are required as program at the National work will be eligible for recogni- Princess Street, Alexandria. Retro, space is limited. All COVID-pro- Gallery of Art offers a unique tion by the jurors. Non-themed JUNE 4-26 smooth, and timeless. Vocalist and cedures will be in place during opportunity for artists to study work may also be exhibited. Visit “The Naked and the Newt: Studies front-woman, Ariana Harbin leads this tour. Call 703-549-2997 the techniques of old masters the website: http://torpedofactory. in Human and Herpeton Anato- jazz quartet Sweet Something in or email [email protected]. through intimate study in the org/visit/ my” art exhibit explores human favorite jazz tunes from “Summer- Tickets: https://apm.active- galleries. This exhibit presents and animal bodies, investigating time” to “On the Sunny Side of communities.com/novaparks/ the work of members of this JUNE 1 TO AUG. 31 conceptions of anatomy, texture, the Street,” and in tribute to the Activity_Search/4690 program alongside a color pho- Creative Summer Programs is a series and conservation with our partner, indelible performances of Billie to of the original and an artist’s of workshops exploring the arts. the Virginia Herpetological Society Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank SATURDAY/JUNE 12 statement explaining why the Learn techniques in painting, (VHS). Special workshops taught Sinatra, Nat King Cole and more. Washington’s Forest History Walk. work was chosen and what was sculpture, collage, mixed media, by local artists and free talks by Visit the website: https://www. 1:30-3:30 p.m. At Ball-Sellers learned through copying. Visit sketching, and more from local VHS are offered in conjunction classicalmovements.com/secretgar- House, 5620 3rd Street, Arling- the website: www.nvfaa.org artists. Delve into your creative with the theme. The exhibit runs denconcerts/ ton. Walk in George Washing- consciousness solo or with friends. June 4-26, 2021 ton’s footsteps. In 1775, George MAY 25 TO JUNE 27 Online and in-person, for chil- at Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 THURSDAY/JUNE 10 Washington bought 1,200-acres Birds of a Feather. Potomac Fiber dren and/or adults, free and paid Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria Carlyle House Architecture Tour. 5:30 of forest in what’s now Arling- Arts Gallery announces the programs are offered. Sign up for VA. Details at www.DelRayArtisans. p.m. Join in an one hour tour of ton. The tour begins and ends opening of its juried show what inspires you! Held at Del org/exhibits Carlyle House solely focused on the See Calendar, Page 13

8 v Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Democrats Choose Northern Virginia Ticket

From Page 1 worker protection unit while also appearing in blackface when he reorganizing the consumer pro- was in college, although that issue tection section. He fought against didn’t seem to resonate with Dem- the former president’s Muslim ban, ocratic voters when Jones tried to and he opposed Republican ger- use it as a wedge issue in the clos- rymandering in the United States ing days of the primary campaign. Supreme Court. If elected a third Herring will be running against term as attorney general, Herring Del. Jason Miyares (R-82), a law- says he’ll protect against Repub- and-order conservative who says lican efforts to oppose access to he’ll make sure the streets are safe healthcare, marriage equality and and criminals are locked up. immigrant rights. “As violent crime rises, Virginia “The voters recognized Attorney families need an attorney general General Mark Herring for his lead- who will stand up for crime vic- ership over the last eight years as tims and prioritize public safety,” he has tackled hard issues — de- This part of Telegraph goes from two to six lanes at Franconia with narrow, old sidewalks. This is next said Peter Bisbee, executive direc- fending the Affordable Care Act, to a park, bus stops, on the way to Huntington metro station, a private school, churches. Poor street tor of the Republican Attorneys guaranteeing the right for all cou- design is no excuse for excessive speed or inattentive driving General Association. “Herring has ples to marry, reforming criminal been criticized for trying to cover justice laws, ending police violence up the illegal release of violent and fighting the NRA in their back- prisoners and failed to hold rapists yard,” said Sean Rankin, executive and rioters accountable when local director of the Democratic Attor- prosecutors wouldn’t do their job. neys General Association. “DAGA Worst of all, Herring supported is proud to support Attorney Gen- ending the notifications crime vic- eral Herring as he continues the tims receive when their predator is work in Virginia on racial equity released from prison.” and civil rights, reproductive rights During his time as attorney gen- and guaranteeing economic justice eral, Herring created a new Office for all Virginians as communities of Civil Rights as well as a new return to a more normal life after conviction integrity unit and a new the pandemic.” Sign up for www.connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe to all of our papers FREE DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 v 9 Bulletin Board

From Page 5 711. a computer, tablet, or smartphone Volunteer Fairfax makes it easy for and internet access to participate. individuals and families, youth Registration runs through February and seniors, corporate groups and 5, with options to register via text civic clubs to volunteer. Fulfill message, phone calls, or in-person hours, give back, or pay it forward at certain locations and times. through a variety service options. Classes offered this spring include: Visit www.volunteerfairfax.org or v Beginning English Class: provides call 703-246-3460. adult English language learners STEM VOLUNTEERS. The American the fundamental skills to under- Association for the Advancement stand and communicate in English, of Science (AAAS) needs scientists, helping them to better engage in engineers, mathematicians, and the community and advance their physicians to assist K-12 STEM careers. (Science, Technology, Engineer- v Family Learning Programs (FLP): ing, Mathematics) teachers in the provides English language instruc- Northern Virginia Area, during tion for parents or caregivers, so the 2016-17 school year. In the that they can better communicate 2015-16 school year, the numbers with their children and support of STEM volunteers in Northern their education. Virginia were: Fairfax County - 40, Classes are $85 with books and Arlington - 20, and Alexandria assessment included. Registration - one. Details of the collabora- is required for enrollment. Please tion are worked out between the understand that no children are teacher and the volunteer, and may allowed at in-person registrations. involve giving demonstrations, If possible, please bring your assisting in lab experiments, lec- interpreter for the process. Strict turing on special topics, assisting social distancing precautions will with homework, etc. The hours be enforced. Face masks will be are flexible, and volunteers attend provided. Registration times and a one-day training in September dates are available at LCNV’s before being assigned to schools. distance learning page (https:// To see how volunteers are assisting lcnv.org/distance-learning-session/ their teachers, view the video clips lcnv-classes/), or call 703-237- at www.seniorscientist.org. To 0866. volunteer, contact donaldrea@aol. com. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Fairfax County’s Community Services Board is seeking volunteer office Assistance League of Northern Virginia assistants. Volunteers are needed is an all-volunteer non-profit or- to assist CSB staff with greeting ganization that feeds, clothes and guests, making reminder phone provides reading assistance and calls, data entry, filing, shredding, books to children in need. Assis- stocking shelves, and other duties tance League’s programs touch the as needed. Hours are flexible, but lives of hundreds of children in would be during normal business Fairfax and Prince William Coun- hours. Visit www.fairfaxcounty. ties and the City of Alexandria. gov/csb/viva/volunteers.htm for There are many volunteer oppor- more. tunities for community members Same Company, Same Employees, Yoga Teachers are needed. Help to contribute to helping those in improve a person’s well-being by need. To learn more, email info@ teaching yoga classes to adults who Same Great Value - Now Celebrating 20 Years! alnv.org, or visit www.alnv.org. are staying in a residential facility. United Community (formerly UCM), The day/time is flexible, but would 7511 Fordson Road, Alexandria, be during the week. Prior yoga seeks volunteers for Food Pantry TWO POOR TEACHERS instruction is required. Visit www. assistance, Early Learning Center fairfaxcounty.gov/csb/viva/volun- teacher aides, basic needs coun- teers.htm for more. selors, youth tutors and mentors, Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling The Northern Virginia Long Term Care office administration/data entry, Ombudsman Program needs vol- and community outreach. Flexible unteer advocates for residents in hours and schedules. Opportunities nursing homes and assisted living for all ages to serve, including com- facilities. Contact Lisa Callahan at munity service hours. More info 703-324-5861, TTY 711 or email at ucmagency.org/volunteer-op- [email protected]. portunities or email volunteer@ Respite Care volunteers give family ucmagency.org. caregivers of a frail older adult a Operation Paws for Homes, a Virginia break so they can go shopping, based 501(c)(3) organization seeks attend a doctor’s appointment or volunteers, especially to foster just have coffee with a friend. Vol- dogs. See www.ophrescue.org unteers visit and oversee the safety for information and all volunteer of the older adult for a few hours opportunities. each month. Support and training RSVP, a volunteer network for seniors are provided. Contact Kristin Mar- seeking service opportunities tin at 703-324-7577, TTY 711, or in and around Fairfax County, [email protected]. Arlington County and the City of Fairfax County needs volunteers to Alexandria, offers a wide array of drive older adults to medical ap- opportunities for volunteers 55 pointments and wellness programs. Electrical EE and older. RSVP volunteers enjoy Fully Insured & Class A Licensed For these and other volunteer flexible schedules, free accident a itting Since 1999 opportunities, call 703-324-5406, and liability insurance while 0 on TTY 711 or visit www.fairfaxcoun- eating entilation an Air serving, optional mileage and meal nothing until the job ty.gov/olderadults and click on reimbursement and are invited Volunteer Solutions. onitioning A is complete for the to volunteer group projects and The Gum Springs Senior Program in past 17 years social gatherings. To sign up for an lming Alexandria is looking for a Line upcoming orientation, email Carly Dance Instructor. For these and Reiential iling R Hubicki at chubicki@volunteerfair- other volunteer opportunities, call fax.org or call RSVP at 703-403- 703-324-5406, TTY 711 or visit 5360. To learn more about RSVP, www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults Free Estimates 703-999-2928 visit www.rsvpnova.org. and click on Volunteer Solutions. Check if your contractor is licensed at the state level Line Dance Instructor needed for The Kingstowne Center for Active the Gum Springs Senior Program http://www.DPOR.virginia.gov Adults in Alexandria needs In- once a week on either Tuesday, structors for the following classes: Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com Wednesday or Thursday. Volunteer Solutions, call 703-324-5406, TTY See Bulletin, Page 11 10 v Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News

711. Volunteer Fairfax makes it easy for individuals and families, youth and seniors, corporate groups and civic clubs to volunteer. Fulfill LTA Presents ‘Ripcord’ hours, give back, or pay it forward through a variety service options. Visit www.volunteerfairfax.org or Now thru June 26, it’s the story of call 703-246-3460. STEM VOLUNTEERS. The American Association for the Advancement two women thrown together by a of Science (AAAS) needs scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and physicians to assist K-12 STEM cosmic force with a wicked sense (Science, Technology, Engineer- ing, Mathematics) teachers in the of humor. Northern Virginia Area, during the 2016-17 school year. In the By Steve Hibbard 2015-16 school year, the numbers balance as an actor. Colleen has The Gazette of STEM volunteers in Northern such a big, over-the-top person- Virginia were: Fairfax County - 40, ality, which is so fun to play. Just Arlington - 20, and Alexandria he Little Theatre of Al- with a more dramatic character, I - one. Details of the collabora- exandria (LTA) is pre- still have to find the elements that tion are worked out between the teacher and the volunteer, and may senting ‘Ripcord’ from make her a real person that the au- involve giving demonstrations, Tnow through June 26. dience can connect with, not end assisting in lab experiments, lec- It’s the story of two women thrown up being annoyed by,” she said. turing on special topics, assisting together by a cosmic force with a Matt Baughman is playing the with homework, etc. The hours wicked sense of humor. The play is are flexible, and volunteers attend role of Derek, Colleen’s husband a one-day training in September written by Pulitzer Prize winning and Marilyn’s son-in-law. “He’s before being assigned to schools. playwright David Lindsay-Abaire, more realistic and reserved than To see how volunteers are assisting who masterfully injects inspired his wife; always cautious and wor- their teachers, view the video clips moments of physical comedy and ried. He’s the epitome of a loyal at www.seniorscientist.org. To volunteer, contact donaldrea@aol. unexpected truths into the story. husband, and will do anything for com. Janice Zucker is playing the role his wife. I find this character ap- Fairfax County’s Community Services of Abby Binder. “She is a very an- pealing because none of the emo- Board is seeking volunteer office gry, bitter, sad and lonely older tional weight of the play is on my Janice Zucker (Abby), Kathy Ohlhaber (Colleen), Marsha Rehns (Marilyn), Matt Baughman (Derek), assistants. Volunteers are needed woman who has had more than to assist CSB staff with greeting shoulders, I just get to pop in here and Cameron McBride (Scotty) star in LTA’s production of “Ripcord.” guests, making reminder phone her fair share of hard knocks in her and there and have fun. A great calls, data entry, filing, shredding, life. She has put up a wall around first show to shake of the quaran- you by surprise.” want them to feel hope watching expressions during the rehearsal stocking shelves, and other duties herself because of it and doesn’t tine rust,” he said. Janice Zucker, who plays the role this show. If nothing else, maybe process during which we had to be as needed. Hours are flexible, but want to let anyone get close to her. Cameron McBride, who plays would be during normal business of Abby, said she hopes the audi- the vibrant, elated energy of this masked.” hours. Visit www.fairfaxcounty. She’s kind of just going through the role of Scotty, said: “Theatre ence enjoys the production. “You cast transcends the 10-foot safety Co-Producer Lynn O’Connell gov/csb/viva/volunteers.htm for the motions of life without really in the age of COVID is not only just have to be open to it. And may- distance between the audience and said: “I had actually produced more. enjoying it at al!,” she said. a blessing considering how long be have a little help along the way.” the stage.” “The Revolutionists” in March as Yoga Teachers are needed. Help Cameron McBride is playing the we were bereft of it, but also a Marsha Rehns, who plays the Director Jessie Roberts said, well, and from that experience I improve a person’s well-being by role of Scotty. “Scotty is a resident teaching yoga classes to adults who challenge. Ensuring the safety of role of Marilyn, said: “I hope the “Even people whose personalities felt quite comfortable navigating are staying in a residential facility. aide at the facility where the play the cast, crew, and audience has audience laughs, enjoys the plot are fundamentally different can Covid safety measures and best The day/time is flexible, but wouldtakes place, and often finds himself brought many adjustments and twists, and appreciates why the not only get along with each other practices. Now, I shall take a break be during the week. Prior yoga to be the sole voice of reason. He changes to the normal rehearsal play is called “Ripcord.” but they can find positive insight for a while – and travel.” The other instruction is required. Visit www. cares very much about the people process. We have a wonderfully fairfaxcounty.gov/csb/viva/volun- Kathy Ohlhaber, who plays the into themselves through discover- producer is Alan Wray. teers.htm for more. there but has his own life that he talented group, however, we have role of Colleen, Marilyn’s daugh- ing each other’s strengths -- and She added: “This is truly a com- The Northern Virginia Long Term Care still wants to explore. Scotty might been able to put together a show ter, said “Although this is a hilar- weaknesses.” edy, and we want people to leave Ombudsman Program needs vol- be still finding his place in the that does justice to the material ious show, it is ultimately about He added: “Certainly, the chal- laughing and being joyful about unteer advocates for residents in world, but he’s doing the best he while considering this challenging the importance of having human lenges of doing a play that is based being in a theatre again. That nursing homes and assisted living can on all fronts,” he said. facilities. Contact Lisa Callahan at time. This show has more serious connections in your life. What a on personal interactions during said, the play does have an under- 703-324-5861, TTY 711 or email Kathy Ohlhaber is playing the dramatic elements and themes fitting message as we emerge from the pandemic were unique. For- lying theme of the importance of [email protected]. role of Colleen. “I always gravitate than previous shows I’ve worked the COVID-19 pandemic. We all tunately, most of the characters connecting with others and of for- Respite Care volunteers give family to the deeply troubled and broken on. Family struggles, staying rel- need overdoses of hope now to in the play don’t like each other giveness.” caregivers of a frail older adult a characters; the more dramatic they evant, finding a place in the world break so they can go shopping, counteract the darkness many of or have a purely professional re- ‘Ripcord’ will run now through attend a doctor’s appointment or are the better. There is nothing -- don’t worry, there are still lots of us experienced in 2020. I want just lationship so distancing wasn’t too June 26. The venue is located just have coffee with a friend. Vol- like a good freak out on stage. So, laughs to be had here. But there the very act of getting back to the difficult. But it was frustrating for at 600 Wolfe Street, Alexandria. unteers visit and oversee the safety comedies are a great way for me are a lot of slower, more thoughtful theater to be an amazing experi- the actors and for me, too, to not Visit the website at of the older adult for a few hours to challenge myself and keep the stages in the plot that might catch each month. Support and training ence for the audience, but I also be able to see and react to facial www.thelittlethe-atre.com. are provided. Contact Kristin Mar- tin at 703-324-7577, TTY 711, or [email protected]. Bulletin Board Fairfax County needs volunteers to drive older adults to medical ap- From Page 10 pointments and wellness programs. or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ Mount Vernon At Home is a commu- at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/old- and other volunteer opportuni- For these and other volunteer Country-Western Line Dance, olderadults and click on Volunteer nity Village, providing support, eradultservices/ltcombudsman/, or ties call 703-324-5406 or visit opportunities, call 703-324-5406, Hula Hoop and African Style Solutions. services, and community to seniors email Lisa.Callahan@fairfaxcounty. www.fairfacounty.gov/olde- TTY 711 or visit www.fairfaxcoun- Dance. For these and other The Mount Vernon Adult Day Health in the area. Volunteers are needed gov or call 703-324-5861, TTY radults. ty.gov/olderadults and click on volunteer opportunities, call Care Center in Alexandria needs for a variety of services, with trans- 711. Volunteer Solutions. 703-324-5406, TTY 711 or front desk volunteers and patient portation to medical appointments Hollin Hall Senior Center is looking for ONGOING The Gum Springs Senior Program in visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ Card Players. For these and other are greatest need. They can also a DJ ballroom and dance instruc- Mobile DMV. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Alexandria is looking for a Line olderadults and click on Volun- volunteer opportunities, call 703- use help with in-home handyman tor. The Hollin Hall Senior Center, Sherwood Hall Library. Two pro- Dance Instructor. For these and teer Solutions. 324-5406, TTY 711 or visit www. work and handling IT problems. If 1500 Shenandoah Road. grams, DMV Connect and DMV other volunteer opportunities, call The Hollin Hall Senior Center in fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults and you are interested in volunteering, The Mount Vernon Adult Day Health 2 GO, will provide full DMV ser- 703-324-5406, TTY 711 or visit Alexandria needs instructors click on Volunteer Solutions. contact us at info@mountvernona- Care Center is looking for social vice to the Route 1 area. At the www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults for the following classes: Basic The Advisory Board of the Joe and thome.org or call 703-303-4060. companions for participants on Sherwood Hall service centers, and click on Volunteer Solutions. Woodworking, Italian and Fredona Gartlan Center for mental Volunteer Advocates for Nursing Home Fridays from 3-5 p.m. and front customers can apply or renew The Kingstowne Center for Active Ballroom Dance. For these and health is looking for volunteers. & Assisted Living Residents needed desk volunteers on Tuesdays and their ID cards, drivers licens- Adults in Alexandria needs In- other volunteer opportunities, The board meets the second Tues- throughout Northern Virginia. Con- Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-noon es, take road and knowledge structors for the following classes: call 703-324-5406, TTY 711 day of the month from 9-11 a.m. at tact the Northern Virginia Long- and 3:30-4:30 p.m. Located at See Bulletin, Page 12 Gartlan Center 8119 Holland Road. Term Care Ombudsman Program 8350 Richmond Highway. For these See Bulletin, Page 11 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 v 11 Home Life Style Bulletin Board

From Page 11 8119 Holland Road. Opportunity for discussion, information and tests, apply for special ID cards, support for families with members get copies of their driving records, experiencing symptoms of mental obtain vehicle titles, license plates, illness. Professionally facilitated. decals and transcripts, order Program varies, may include guest disabled parking placards or plates, speakers, movies. Pre-registration purchase an EZ-Pass transponder is appreciated, but not required. and more. A full list of services is Free. For more information contact available at www.dmv.virginia.gov. Nga Nguyen at 703-799-2726, TTY Art Making as Meditation. 7-8:30 711. p.m. St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, Telephone Support Group. 7-8 p.m. on 8531 Riverside Road. Art making the 2nd Tuesday of the month. For as meditation can be an active family caregivers of older adults. form of contemplative practice. Discuss “Keeping Organized as a Each session begins with a short Caregiver: What Works?” Share reading and a brief introduction to experiences, gain support and get materials. Silence for making and information without having to meditation lasts an hour followed travel. Free. www.fairfaxcounty. by sharing images or insights gov/dfs/olderadultservices. Photo by Jackie Robbins gained through the process, if Alzheimer’s Association support Throw pillows in vibrant desired. Children able to participate groups provide a place for people shades of blue add a burst in silence are welcome to come with Alzheimer’s, their caregivers, with a parent’s quiet supervision. family members, and/or friends to of color to this front porch Photo by Diego Valdez RSVP not necessary for attendance, share information, caregiving tips designed by Maria Fanjul of but helpful for planning purposes. and concerns. Groups are facilitat- This space for a McLean home, created by architect Rolando Valdez Cabin John, Md. firm Anthony Call 703-360-4220, email info@ ed by trained group leaders and of Bethesda firm GMT Architects, boasts a floor to ceiling fireplace. Wilder Design/Build. centerforspiritualdeepening.org or are ongoing, free and open to the visit www.staidansepiscopal.com/ community. Call the Alzheimer’s Center-for-Spiritual-Deepening. Association 24/7 Helpline at 800- Mount Vernon Preservation Challenge. 272-3900 before attending a group George Washington’s Mount Vernon for the first time to verify meeting Style for the Great Outdoors has embarked upon a special year- information, obtain directions or end fundraising campaign that will other information about the group. help ensure the ongoing preserva- A complete list of all groups in the Designers see uptick tion of the estate of this nation’s National Capital Area region can first president. As the country’s be viewed at www.alz.org/nca. requests for porches and most popular historic home, Mount Plant Clinics. Through September, Vernon does not accept govern- Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon at the ment funding, instead relying upon Mount Vernon Farmers Market at other outdoor spaces. donations from patriotic individuals Sherwood Library, 2501 Sherwood and organizations. Through the Hall Lane. Volunteers from the By Marilyn Campbell Preservation Challenge, Mount Ver- Fairfax County Master Gardeners Gazette Packet non hopes to raise enough money Association will conduct plant to perform critical repairs and res- clinics during the 2016 season toration work on original structures to answer gardening questions, longing to spend more time outside after located in the historic area. The identify plants and insects, and a year-and-a-half spent inside is driving funds raised through the Mount dispense soil test kits to the general Vernon Preservation Challenge will a trend in home design, including an up- public. They encourage backyard support the following projects: gardeners to bring samples for Atick in requests for projects like screened v The Spring House: This building diagnosis or identification. Visit porches and patios. currently does not have a roof. fairfaxgardening.org for more. “This past year, homeowners were interested in Photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg Money originally slated for this Mount Vernon Community Band. creating gathering spaces that offered opportuni- This backyard porch by Susan Matus of Case project was reassigned to perform Rehearsals are Tuesday 7:30-9:30 emergency repairs in the Mansion. ties to be outside, said designer Susan Matus. “I Design/Remodeling offers a view of the home’s p.m. in the Mount Vernon High v The Ice House: There is a serious School band room, 8515 Old think that we will continue to see the interest in wooded backyard. crack in the masonry that may re- Mount Vernon Road. There are screen porches grow as many spent more time out- sult in long-term structural damage no auditions. The Mount Vernon found inside [and] provide a clear look at the if not promptly addressed. Community Band is a nonprofit doors during the pandemic.” v pool and patio beyond, ‘’ said Valdez of Bethesda The Mansion: Mount Vernon has community service organization When owners of Cabin John, Maryland residence just begun a five-year “rustication” firm GMT Architects. that has performed in the Mount decided to update their front porch, they tasked de- project, which is the method used Vernon area since 1978. 703-768- signer Maria Fanjul of Cabin John, Md. firm Antho- The space is consistent with the overall style of in George Washington’s time of 4172 or www.mvbands.com. ny Wilder Design/Build with the job. the home which was inspired by those found along cutting, beveling, and sand-casting Training Courses. The American Red “Because it was an older home, we had to stay the New England coast. “The porch embraces the wood siding to make it appear as if Cross in the National Capital colors of the home’s pastel blue shingles and white it is stone. Region will host training courses within the existing porch’s footprint,” she said. “In For more information, visit www. trim,” said Valdez. in CPR, First Aid, and AED in the order to draw the eye up, we centered the porch’s mountvernon.org/donate. Alexandria and Fort Belvoir offices. stairs to align with the front door, raised the porch’s The space is outfitted with vaulted ceilings, a These classes offer a two-year roof to allow more natural light floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace SUPPORT GROUPS certification. Classes range from into the space and the home, and flagstone floor that leads to Parent Support Partners, a service $90-$110. Advance registration the deck with built-in grill. of the Healthy Minds Fairfax is required. To register for a class and curved the wood along the “This past year, initiative, are all parents who have or find another class in your area, gable of the porch’s roof.” When adding a porch to an received training and are qualified call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit The space’s crisp white col- homeowners were existing home, Matus and archi- to offer education, support and redcross.org/takeaclass. umns contrast with the home’s tect Vicente Neto, both of Case assistance at no cost to families or Sponsors Needed. Britepaths Fam- deep blue tone, outfitted with interested in cre- Design/Remodeling, worked to caregivers. They provide reliable ily Sponsoring. Fairfax-based create a space that was compat- information that families can use non-profit Britepaths (formerly Our neutral furniture. in decision-making and are familiar Daily Bread) is seeking commu- Throw pillows and a rug in ating gathering ible with the style of the home’s with services and resources that nity members to sponsor families bold shades of indigo and yel- interior while also offering can help families in distress. Visit in need who live throughout the low add another burst of color. spaces that of- views of the wooded backyard. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/healthy- Fairfax County area. Sponsors are “We wanted the porch to be mindsfairfax or www.nami-north- matched with an individual or fam- The overall look is clean and ernvirginia.org/parent-peer-sup- ily with demonstrated need, and accessible but also not block calming. “The owners now fered opportuni- port.html. may opt to provide a Thanksgiving have a brighter porch to enjoy,” views from the dining room, Peer Facilitated Mental Health Support meal, December holiday meal, said Fanjul. ties to be outside. kitchen or bedrooms on the Group 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursdays at and/or gifts for children under 18. While designing a new, cus- — Susan Matus second floor,” said Matus. “The the Gartlan Behavioral Health Cen- Cash donations and gift cards are porch can be entered directly ter, 8119 Holland Road. Facilitated welcome to assist those who are tom home in McLean, Va., ar- by trained peers with lived-ex- not sponsored. Britepaths is expect- chitect Rolando Valdez creat- from the family room.” perience dealing with mental ing to have 3,000 households on ed a back porch that offers a seamless transition “Homeowners now realize how valuable health challenges. 571-414-9072 its assistance list. A great family, from the home’s interior to its natural surround- and special the additional gathering space of a [email protected] company or group holiday service porch really is.” Family Support Group. 7 p.m. on the project. Register and learn more at ings. “There are arched openings that mimic those second and fourth Wednesdays britepaths.org. Contact 703-273- of the month at Gartlan Center, 8829 or [email protected]. 12 v Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Calendar Classified WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM From Page 8 To Advertise in This Paper, Call by Monday 11:00 am 703-778-9411 at the Ball-Sellers House rain or shine. All ages welcomed. Visit the website: https://arlingtonhis- toricalsociety.org/

SATURDAY/JUNE 12 Old Town Scavenger Hunt. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy a summer afternoon exploring western part of Old Town with a scavenger hunt created by Carlyle House Historic Park and Lee-Fendall House Museum. Pick up up your scavenger hunts up at Lee-Fen- dall House starting at 11am (last scavenger hunt will be handed out at 3pm) and take your time exploring Old Town and end at the newly opened Goodies Fro- zen Custard & Treats at the Old Ice House. Finished scavenger hunts will receive a buy one get one free coupon for Goodies. Lee-Fendall is located at 614 Oronoco Street, Alexandria. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ old-town-scavenger-hunt-tickets-153719997651

SATURDAY/JUNE 12 Beyond the Battlefield: A Walking Tour of Civil War Alexandria. 9 a.m. At Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco St., Alexandria. This walking tour shares the stories of soldiers, citizens, and self-liberated African Americans in Civil War Alexandria. It covers the military occupation, the conversion of public and private buildings into hospitals, and emancipation. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are $15 per person. Members of Lee-Fendall House are free but must call or email to make a reservation (703) 548-1789 or contact@leefendall- house.org.

SATURDAY/JUNE 12 Beauty of Ferns. 11 a.m. to noon. At Green Springs Garden, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexan- dria. Join a virtual gardening program from the comfort of your home, and then head out into your garden to apply all your new knowledge. Green Spring Gardens is offering online programs on plant combinations and on the beauty of ferns during two weekends in June. Explore how to play with color, form and texture in a perennial/shrub border with Washington Gardener Magazine publisher Kathy Jentz. The cost is $18 per person. Call 703-642-5173.

SATURDAY/JUNE 12 Edible Garden Tour. 10-11:30 a.m. (Adults) Explore the bounty of Green Spring’s Edible Garden with an Extension Master Gar- dener docent who showcases many food plants—from vegetables to fruit trees— suitable for home landscapes. See how edi- bles can grow in containers and small spaces and discover their ornamental value in the garden. $15 per person. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ parktakes (code 96U.LRA9) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173.

SATURDAY/JUNE 12 Attractive and Lasting Plant Com-

See Calendar, Page 14 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 v 13 The Masks Calendar are Off ... Business From Page 13 technological and medical breakthroughs binations. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. (16-Adult) built on Army ingenuity. Visit http://www. By KENNETH B. LOURIE Explore playing with color, form, and theNMUSA.org. Directory texture in the perennial/shrub border with ... and I suppose life is back on, especially for Washington Gardener Magazine publisher, those of us who have been vaccinated. No more WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM Kathy Jentz. This virtual, image-heavy talk THURSDAY/JUNE 17 Juneteenth Celebration: “Day of Jubilee!” hiding your emotions and expressions behind includes tried-and-true combinations, as 5:30 and 7 p.m. At The Rectory at Princess your face-covering as you once again start well as some daring new mixes to experi- Call 703-549-0004 Street, 711 Princess St., Alexandria. As interacting with the general public. They can see ment with in your own home garden. Take for advertising information part of the “Sounds of Hope & Harmony” you and of course, you can see them - and you notes and get inspired with the formulas Secret Garden concert series, Classical can hear/understand them, too. Conversations for beautiful plant combinations. A link Movements will host an uplifting and will flow more evenly now that they won’t be for the program will be sent via email up festive musical celebration of Juneteenth, interrupted by an “Excuse me, I can’t under- ELECTRICAL ELECTRICAL to an hour before the program start time. the oldest nationally celebrated commem- stand you,” or a “Could you please repeat that?” $18 per person. Register online at www. oration of the ending of slavery in the Unit- fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code Conversations that were previously affected by ed States, with the Coalition for African CDV.0K4P) or call Green Spring Gardens at fits and starts will revert back to questions and Americans in the Performing Arts. Featur- 703-642-5173. answers and what abouts. For me, the mask was ing texts by Langston Hughes and Martin an impediment to normal conversion. Necessary Luther King, Jr. and music by trailblazing and prudent during a once-in-a-lifetime, public SATURDAY/JUNE 12 composers Margaret Bonds and Adolphus health emergency, but apparently, the time has Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market. 9 a.m. to 1 Hailstork, the show will be a joyful and comer. Previous directives: masks, social distanc- p.m. Parking lot of 1900 Mount Vernon reflective celebration through song, dance ing, contact tracing, quarantining and vaccina- Ave., Alexandria. Items for sale range from and narration. tions were all most of us ever talked about. Now vintage and clothing to housewares, sports with vaccinations getting into more arms, our memorabilia, child and baby items, artwork and more. A wide variety of prices and THURSDAY/JUNE 17 lives are expanding. From our living room to just LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING Summer Garden: Tour and Tea to Go. 10- items are represented. plain living. 11:30 a.m. At Green Spring Garden, 4603

Though there are still mask-on requirements: Green Spring Road, Alexandria. With this in schools, on public conveyances, and in SATURDAY/JUNE 12 program, you can tour the vibrant demon- airports, train stations and the like and while Alexandria Architecture Walking Tour. 10 to stration gardens with an Extension Master obtaining healthcare services, we are now, espe- 11:30 a.m. At Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax Gardener docent who will inspire you with cially those of us vaccinated, free to return to our St., Alexandria. Join Carlyle House for a dazzling plant combinations and tales of previous life, mostly. Soon capacity restrictions tour of Alexandria, exploring at the various Green Spring past and present. architecture styles that adorn the city will be lifted as our lives, so far as the activities Then, you can pick up an optional box of streets and make it one of the best places which involve large crowds, both inside and out, treats to enjoy for an afternoon tea. The Summer Cleanup... to live and work. Reservations are required can open back up in their entirety. Moreover, tour is $12 per person. Optional tea boxes as space is limited. Visit novaparks.com/ may be purchased for $24. Call 703-642- social distancing will likewise become a thing of parks/carlyle-house-historic-park the past. Now, all those round stickers marking 5173. six feet of distance as well as the plexiglas divid- ers will disappear as well. However, individual SATURDAY/JUNE 12 MOVIES IN ARLINGTON North Payne Beer Garden at the Loop. 12-6 businesses retain the right to require visitors to Join the Rosslyn BID this summer for the Cine- p.m. At 215 North Payne Street, Alexan- mask up. As Bobby Brown used to sing: “That is ma series to enjoy your favorite movies on dria. Live music, food truck, craft beer, the lawn in Gateway Park, 1300 Lee Hwy., my prerogative,” and so too will businesses have vendors. Reggae Fest. Tickets: $10 their own prerogative to require patrons - or not, Arlington on Fridays in June. to abide by their mask-wearing requirements. Friday, June 11 – Monsters Inc.; JUNE 12-14 All of that being said and understood, even Friday, June 18 – Wonder Woman 1984; Metro School of the Arts Company Virtual Fridany, June 25 – Cool Runnings. though I’m fully vaccinated, I still feel like I “Metropolitan Attendees must register in advance of each should mask-up. From the national vaccination World Tour.” 10 a.m. At 5775 Barclay Ave., showing via Eventbrite and check-in will statistics, there are plenty of people who have Alexandria. Metropolitan School of the Landscape Drainage Landscape Drainage begin at 7:15 p.m., with movies starting at not yet been vaccinated and/or are unwilling/ Arts (MSA) of Alexandria will present the sundown (approximately 8 p.m. in June). unconvinced they need to comply. I can’t quite virtual “Metropolitan World Tour,” understand the “vaccine hesitancy” or the its annual spring production, on June 12 and JULY 1-17 disinterest in following these most recent public 13. The show was John W. Hiller Retrospective Photography health advisories. It seems like such a small, pre-recorded at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Exhibit is a special two-week exhibit that relatively risk-free/preventing risk step to take. I Center at Northern Virginia showcases over four decades of photogra- mean, whatever temporary side effects/discom- Community College, Alexandria, Va. campus. phy from longtime member John W. Hiller, fort one might experience a day or two after the Attendees can choose from six an Oscar and Emmy winner. Works include injection pales in comparison to the effect on virtual show times, available between the solitary landscapes of the American West, your body and/or life expectancy contacting hours of 10 AM and 9:30 PM. tranquil Japanese gardens, and contempo- the virus might have. I’ll take a definite over a Tickets are $30 each. To purchase tickets and rary experiential imagery. View exhibit at maybe anytime. view show times, go to Del Ray Artisans Gallery (2704 Mount Ver- Besides, I don’t want to be responsible for https://metropolitanarts2021springproduc- non Avenue, Alexandria VA) during special my own demise, or any others for that matter. In tion.anywhereseat.com/channel.php. Visit hours: Thursdays/ Fridays/ Saturdays 12-8 this situation, I’m happy/proud to conform to the the website: http://metropolitanarts.org. p.m., Sundays 12-4 p.m. Details: DelRay- public health directives. The virus is bigger - and Artisans.org/exhibits badder, than any one of us; so to be bigger and JUNE 1-SEPT. 25 badder than the virus, literally and figuratively, The “Quarantine Creations” art exhibit. At the THE BIRCHMERE the more of us who receive the vaccine, the Veterinary Clinics of America Alexandria Sat. Jun. 12: TUSK – The World’s #1 Tribute more of us will be able to survive this pandemic Animal Hospital, VCA Alexandria, 2660 to Fleetwood Mac $35.00 and safely embrace our former lives while not Duke St, Alexandria. Features artwork by Sun. Jun. 13: THE ALLMAN BETTS BAND fearing the consequences of our inactions. local artists depicting personal experiences with special guest THE RIVER KITTENS The other day at my local Giant, I happened lived through the current global quaran- $59.50 tine. Artwork by Del Ray Artisans members to walk by the customer service desk where I Sat. Jun. 19: BELA DONA $29.50 through the Gallery Without Walls program heard a customer bragging to an employee about Sun. Jun. 20: A Musical Tribute of the Temp- in partnership with VCA Alexandria. De- not planning on getting a vaccination, like he tations, Four Tops, Dells, and Smokey tails: DelRayArtisans.org/exhibits/gww was proud of it. What a disconnect! I’m proud Robinson & Miracles, with Forever Yours, to have gotten my vaccination, and I’m equally and Special Guest ‘IGNATIUS,’ (Heatwave’s proud to have participated in a national effort MONDAY/JUNE 14 current lead vocalist) Featured House National Museum of the U.S. Army to Reopen. to try and combat the greatest health crisis this Band: Keith “Showtime” Busey & The Unit The U.S. Army announced that the Na- country has suffered since the Spanish Flu first Band with The NWO Horns $35. tional Museum of the United States Army Mon/Tue. Jun. 21 & 22: RICHARD THOMP- infected Americans over 100 years ago. will reopen on June 14, the Army’s 246th SON (Solo/Acoustic) $75.00 I just wish more people would put the coun- birthday. Fri. Jun. 25: COREY SMITH $39.50 try ahead of themselves. For all that we’re given The museum, which is located at Fort Belvoir, Sat. Jun. 26: EAGLEMANIA – The World’s here, it really doesn’t seem too much to ask. In officially opened in November 2020, but Greatest Eagles Tribute Band $39.50 this circumstance, paybacks are not hell, they’re was closed temporarily due to the corona- Fri. Aug. 27: BODEANS $29.50 heaven. virus pandemic. The Museum is the first Sun. Sept. 5: THE MARSHALL TUCKER BAND comprehensive and truly national museum $55.00 to capture, display and interpret the Army’s Tue. Sept. 28: THE ROBERT CRAY BAND history by telling stories through the $49.50 eyes of Soldiers. Its displays and interac- All shows are at 7:30 p.m., unless otherwise Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for tive-learning exhibits illustrate the Army’s noted. Tickets available at Ticketmaster. The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. role in building and defending our nation, com. Contact The Birchmere at 703-549- as well as Army humanitarian missions and 7500 or www.Birchmere.com. 14 v Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 v 15 16 v Mount Vernon Gazette v June 10-16, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com