Alexandria Wellbeing Gazette Packet Page, 15 25 Cents Serving Alexandria for over 200 years • A Connection Newspaper November 8, 2018

A look at Alexandria’s All Politics Local(ish) local races in a mid-term year. By Dan Brendel Gazette Packet

uesday’s general elec- tion yielded few sur- Tprises for mayor and City Council, with Democratic candidates sweeping all seven seats. The School Board shed one incumbent. Council candidates this year gathered more votes than they usually do, according to unofficial results available as the Gazette Packet goes to press. That’s true even compared to 2012, the last time local races coincided with Local Democrats watch Tuesday’s election results come in Local Republicans watch Tuesday’s election results come federal races, when the presidency at Glory Days Grill. in at Ramparts Tavern & Grill. was also on the ballot. In 2012, council victors won pared to Bill Euille’s 39,000 in least votes, just over 5,000. Cox, a Republican-turned-Demo- interest in federal elections. The with roughly between 30,000 and 2012. Wilson ran opposed, Overall, council will go into the crat. He “grudgingly” switched most decisive issues for him were 37,000 votes each, Allison whereas Euille didn’t. In total, next term with three of seven in- sides in 2008, mainly because he “truth and honesty, and removing Silberberg becoming vice mayor about 10,000 more people voted cumbents, the School Board with couldn’t reconcile what he saw as the constant fear factor.” As for with the latter. This year, council in the 2012 mayoral race. four of nine. a “fiscal disconnect” at the na- City Council, he thinks Alexandria candidate won with roughly be- As usual, the fewest voters par- At least for party faithfuls, tional level between Republican- is mostly on the “right track.” tween 34,000 and 44,000 votes ticipated in the School Board race. Tuesday’s election largely repre- led tax cuts concurrent with mul- Democrat Sarah Orndorff said each, newcomer Elizabeth Veronica Nolan (District B) re- sented a referendum on Donald tiple wars. Tuesday for him was she was most concerned about Bennett-Parker becoming vice ceived the most votes, just over Trump’s presidency. Enthusiasm mainly about federal races. Local immigration, voting rights and mayor with the latter. 12,000. Of the nine winners across about local races was mixed. races were largely incidental. women’s rights, particularly to Mayor-elect Justin Wilson re- all districts, incumbent Ramee “This is the most important elec- Former Mayor Bill Euille, a obtain an abortion. While she said ceived nearly 52,000 votes, com- Gentry (District C) received the tion in my lifetime,” said Michael Democrat, also expressed most See Democrats, Page 20 Mourning Alice Morgan Founder of city’s MLK Day celebrations dies at 75. By Jeanne Theismann from the community. That taught Elmore W. Johnson Jr. and Fannye Street in Richmond,” Reid said. Gazette Packet me early on the importance of be- Mae Quarles Johnson. She grew “She was an inspiration to my

Photo by Steven Halperson/Tisara Photo ing active in your community.” up in Richmond and graduated mother.” lice Morgan was known for Morgan, who dedicated more from Maggie L. Walker High Morgan went on to earn a B.A. Amany things. She founded than 50 years to community ser- School which was named for her from Virginia Union University the city’s Martin Luther vice in Alexandria, died Nov. 4 of grandfather’s half-sister. and a Master’s Degree in Social King Jr. memorial celebration and congestive heart failure at “Aunt Maggie has an exhibit in Work from Virginia Common- was the first woman and first Af- Leewood Healthcare Center. She the Smithsonian African American wealth University. Her career rican American to serve on the Al- was 75. Museum and a statue on Broad See Alice Morgan, Page 6 exandria Planning Commission. “Alice was very important to the

But to her daughter, Morgan was fabric of the city in so many ways,”

Alexandria, VA 22314 VA Alexandria,

known for her coffee gatherings. said Donna Walker James, who St., King 1604 To:

ted

“When I think about mom, I worked with Morgan on the board Reques Service Address

think about the coffee’s she used of Agenda:Alexandria. “From be- material.

Time-sensitive

to host at our house,” said ing on the Planning Commission Postmaster: Morgan’s daughter Arvette Reid. to running the MLK Day celebra- Attention

“Political candidates would sit in tions for many, many years, she Permit #482 Permit

our living room and answer ques- had a great impact on our city.” VA Alexandria, Alice Morgan, a 2015 Living PAID

tions from a standing room only Morgan was born July 17, 1943, Postage U.S. Legend of Alexandria, died STD PRSRT Nov. 4 at the age of 75. crowd that mom had gathered the eldest of four children born to www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Editor Steven Mauren News 703-778-9415 or [email protected]

“A risk ratio greater than 2.0 for a racial/ethnic group indicates over-representation, while a risk ratio less than 1.0 indicates under-representa- tion,” according to an Oct. 18 audit of the public school division’s special education programming, conducted by Public Consulting Group, Inc. ‘Academic Optimism and High Expectations’ Schools to overhaul special ed programming. up the division’s Office of Specialized In- everybody might not be around if they don’t struction. believe that.” By Dan Brendel education] looks like, or what it should look “It just frustrates me to no end that we Inconsistency shows not only in varying Gazette Packet like, in every classroom.” still have teachers and principals in our degrees of cultural buy-in, but also in other Hutchings wants principals to maintain school system that have low expectations,” areas. lexandria’s school system has “some autonomy” because they “serve dif- said School Board member Ronnie The audit found that over 80 percent of proposed a three-year plan to ferent populations.” However, there should Campbell. “They know [the students are] white, Hispanic and multi-racial students A tighten up top-down control of be clearer “non-negotiable accountability intellectually disabled, so ‘how far are they with disabilities are included in the general special education programming, measures,” according to the consultants’ going to go anyway, we’re not going to send education classroom 80 percent or more of and invites public feedback over the next audit. them to college.’ So they don’t push” stu- the day. But the proportion for black stu- two weeks. To tighten up central office accountabil- dents with disabilities to succeed, and yet dents drops to 77 percent, and for Asian Though it centers on special education, ity, the proposed plan includes a variety of “they’re still here.” students to 58 percent. The audit also found the plan aims to improve the manner in action steps, summed up by four “themes:” In 2010 the division hired “a nationally that black students “were five times more which schools provide tailored instruction ❖ More structured, mandated profes- recognized expert and author in the area likely to be identified as having an emo- and support to all students generally. sional development for teachers and admin- of inclusive practices” to consult with prin- tional disability, and two and a half times The plan stems from an audit, conducted istrators regarding research-based best cipals, according to the audit. But only more likely to be identified as having an by Public Consulting Group, a firm, over the practices; seven or 19 building administrators opted intellectual disability.” 2017-18 academic year, and briefed to the ❖ More structured “proactive and respon- to take “advantage of this opportunity to Of students with suspected disabilities School Board last month. Regarding pro- sive communication” with parents of stu- help them build foundations for inclusive who are referred for a special education gramming for students with disabilities and dents with disabilities; practices.” evaluation, English learners are found eli- their families, the consultants’ report says ❖ More structured monitoring protocol Inclusive practices are methods of incor- gible for special education half as often as the school division “has a solid foundation “to drive a shared culture of accountabil- porating students with disabilities into gen- non-English learners. The audit suggests on which to build.” But it cautions that the ity;” eral education settings to the maximum this could be a good sign, perhaps indicat- division’s current “site-based management ❖ A new, permanent interdepartmental degree possible, as required by the federal ing that the schools aren’t mistaking model” cedes too much “autonomy” to in- central office group to oversee implemen- Individuals with Disabilities Education Act struggles arising from linguistic and cultural dividual schools. Tighter supervision from tation. (IDEA). A principal method is “co-teaching,” challenges as disabilities. But Janet the top is necessarily in order to ensure In particular, the consultants’ evaluation whereby a certified special education Eissenstat, parent of a student with disabili- greater “fidelity” — a word occurring 13 calls for central leadership to bolster “a sys- teacher provides special instruction along- ties and chair of the school division’s Spe- times in the audit’s 22-page executive sum- tem-wide culture of academic optimism and side a general education teacher in a gen- cial Education Advisory Committee, is more mary — to best practices. high expectations for all students.” eral education classroom, rather than in a dubious. She thinks more English learners “We have not had consistency across the “The message that I want to get out and separate setting. may in fact have disabilities, but that lan- division,” said Dr. Gregory Hutchings, the people to hear is that 85 percent, plus, of The division’s mission statement “says ‘ev- guage barriers may prevent parents from schools’ superintendent. “Everybody’s kind the students with disabilities in this school ery student succeeds,’ which is a lot of being able to advocate effectively for their of working in silos and every school is at a district are average to above-average intel- work,” said Hutchings. “It’s going to take child. Or testing may yield skewed results different level. Even though we’re focusing ligence. That means that they can achieve us … really defining that for our school di- if not administered in the student’s native on the same things, there really isn’t a divi- commensurate or better with their non-dis- vision, and determining who believes it and language. sion-wide expectation of what this [special abled peers,” said Terry Werner, who heads who doesn’t. Unfortunately that means that See Focusing on, Page 9 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 ❖ 3 4 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News ASC to Host Redskins’ Ervins Super Bowl XXVI running back was Rookie of the Year. By Jeanne Theismann Gazette Packet

ormer Washington Redskins running back FRicky Ervins will be the guest speaker at the Alexandria Sportsman’s Club’s annual Redskins Night Nov. 14 at the Old Dominion Boat Club. Ervins joined the Redskins as a rookie running back in 1991, when he became second on the team in rushing yards with 680 on the season (behind Earnest Byner). In Super Bowl XXVI, Ervins was the game’s leading rusher, with 72 yards on 13 carries as the Redskins beat the Buffalo Bills 37-24. Ervins received several honors during his rookie year, including the Washington Redskins Rookie of the year award. In college, a touchdown run by Ervins won the 1990 Rose Bowl for the USC Trojans and he was named the game MVP. Ervins played his final year of professional football in 1994 with the San Photo contributed Francisco 49ers. He retired in 1995 and returned to Northern Virginia, where he trains high school ath- letes through his company Xtreme Xplosion. The ASC annual Redskins Night is free and open to the public. It will be held Nov. 14 at the Old Do- minion Boat Club in Old Town, 200 Strand St. Com- plimentary light dinner and refreshments begin at Former Washington Redskins running back 6:30 p.m. The meeting starts at 7:15 p.m. with Ricky Ervins, shown in Super Bowl XXVI awards for our October and November Athletes of against the Buffalo Bills, will be the guest the Month followed by a presentation and Q&A with speaker at the Alexandria Sportsman’s Super Bowl XXVI Redskins running back Ricky Ervins. Club Redskins Night Nov. 14 at the Old See www.alexandriavasports.org. Dominion Boat Club.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 ❖ 5 People

Photos by Shirley Ruhe/Gazette Packet

Layla Janah, a Moroccan student in T.C. Williams International Academy, serves as an election page at Samuel Tucker Elementary School polling place. Moroccan Student Helps Voters in America

By Shirley Ruhe Ponytail bobbing, she races down the Janah says her mother took her along to a school project. She says in school she tries Gazette Packet room with a pile of empty folders to be re- the polls in Morocco but this was unusual to solve problems on how to make T.C. filled with new ballots. Then she spots a in the tiny area where she lived where united. A teacher could see she was one of ayla Janah is a blur of activity as chair out of order and replaces it neatly for mostly men vote. “Women don’t think it is the students making a positive change and she works up and down the 13 the next voter. A woman approaches with a important; nobody is going to care.” She urged her to apply for the internship. Janah Ldouble-sided voting booths at puzzled expression. The woman is clutch- says women there get married and have says she went to training to know what to Samuel Tucker Elementary School ing a blue sample ballot. She says, “I don’t children. Most of them don’t work. ”They do. on Election Day. Janah is an election page know any of these people and it doesn’t list don’t wait to finish school to get married. Janah has been in America two years and who is assisting voters with answering ques- a party affiliation for some of these candi- Some are married at 14.” But she says, “my tries to be involved in American society. “I tions and giving directions dates.” mom doesn’t think that way.” She explains always try to have experiences in life, and about the voting process. Janah says, “There has been a lot of con- in a big city people are educated but not in it helps me learn the language. Janah plans People Janah is one of five Moroc- fusion like this today. There are a lot of a small area like where she lived. to attend Old Dominion and then get a job At Work can students in the Interna- boxes and they don’t know what to do.” In Morocco there is a king who is always in America. “I am 18 now but I can’t vote tional Academy at T.C. Will- There are a number of people asking for the king. “But we vote for those who work because I only have a green card.” But she iams High School. She arrived at the poll- Republican sample ballots but there is no for the king changing rules in education and waits for the day when she will be able to ing place at 5 a.m., and people were already one outside the building handing them out. work. Janah thinks in America “a lot of vote in America. there setting up. “Hello sir. You just go right She says there is a trashcan in the corner people vote” and “yes most of them here In the area where she lives in Morocco there,” she says pointing to a nearby chair. filled with discarded blue ballots. “When the early this morning were women.” The first not many people vote, “but it can make the “I make sure everyone has a pen. I’ve lost a volunteers run out, they just go to the trash person in line, “she was there first.” future bad or better. I would tell them it lot of pens today.” can and take out a supply to use again.” Janah became an election page as part of only takes 10 minutes of your life.” Alice Morgan, Founder of City’s MLK Day Celebrations, Dies at 75 From Page 1 ceived the President’s Volunteer Service spanned several decades and included work Award for Community Service in Alexan- at Central State Hospital in Petersburg, Va.; dria. Prince William County Welfare Department Morgan was preceded in death by her in Manassas; Hopkins House in Alexandria; brothers Elmore Johnson and James “Paz” and St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Washington, Johnson. D.C., where she retired in 2002 after 30 She is survived by her husband of nearly years of service. 52 years, Wilson Miles Morgan, her sister In 1980, Morgan was one of 25 people Zenobia “Puddin” Johnson, her son Weldon selected nationwide for an Intergovernmen- Photos contributed “Donnie” Morgan (Rusha), her daughter tal Management Program sponsored by the Arvette Reid (Tom) and grandchildren, W. Department of Health and Human Services. Miles Morgan, Alexandra “Zan” Morgan, During this time she earned a Master’s De- Jarren Morgan Reid and Sovay Alyce Reid. gree in Public Administration from the Uni- “Mom’s life was a reminder to me that versity of Southern California Washington you need to be active,” said Reid, who cur- Center. rently serves on the board of Senior Ser- As a young bride, Morgan first moved to vices of Alexandria. “And it was important Alexandria in 1967 and focused her com- Alice Morgan, left, in an undated photo, as to her that politicians heard the voice of the munity involvement on affordable housing, the first woman and first African American black community. I saw her make history in senior citizen advocacy and affordable Alice Morgan at the to serve on the Alexandria Planning Com- our living room.” health care. age of 5. mission. A memorial service will be held Friday, Volunteer activities included the Alexan- Nov. 9 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 3500 dria Tenants’ Council, the Alexandria Boys board from 2010 to 2013. During her time Other awards include the 2010 Marguer- 19th St. South, in Arlington. Visitation will Club and the Legal Aid Society. She served serving on the board of Agenda:Alexandria ite Payez Lifetime Achievement Award, pre- begin at 10 a.m. with a celebration of life on the Police Community Relations Task she organized programs on African Ameri- sented by the Alexandria Commission on service at 11 a.m. Interment will take place Force, the board of the Alexandria Mental can history, affordable housing and immi- Women, which cited Morgan as the first at Ivy Hill Cemetery followed by the repast Health Association and the local chapter of gration. African American woman to run for City at the Departmental Progressive Club, 411 the National Conference of Christians and Morgan initiated Alexandria’s Martin Council in 1979. Although not elected, her Gibbon St. Jews. Luther King Memorial Service in 1973. She candidacy spurred the involvement of other In lieu of flowers, donations may be made Named a Living Legend of Alexandria in went on to volunteer as chair for 34 of the African American women in politics and to Senior Services of Alexandria, 2015, Morgan served on the Living Legends next 35 years before retiring in 2008. community engagement. In 2012, she re- www.seniorservicesalex.org 6 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 ❖ 7 News ‘Faces Never Forgotten’ Vietnam veterans project completed. By Jeanne Theismann the class president, who remem- Gazette Packet bered Dean but had no idea why his photo is missing from school ichael McMorrow was records.” Ma man on a mission. McMorrow researched the data- Along with Kevin Rue base of the National Personnel of the Friends of Rocky Versace or- Records Center but still came up ganization, the retired govern- empty. With only the date of death Photo contributed ment lawyer and freelance writer to work with, he poured through 1st Lt. Lawrence Lilly, shown in has been working to locate pho- the archives of the local newspa- an undated photo, is one of tos of each of the 67 of per to look for obituary informa- seven Alexandrians still consid- ered a POW/MIA from the Alexandria’s fallen from Vietnam. tion. For both Dean and Collins, Vietnam War. The project began four years ago McMorrow obtained the articles when the Vietnam Veterans Me- and photos that were published morial Fund set out to put a face when each of the servicemen were with each of the 58,300 names on killed in Vietnam. the Vietnam Veterans Memorial “In hindsight I suppose this Wall in Washington, D.C. The should have been my first stop,” Faces Never Forgotten effort is a McMorrow said. “But I never real- national campaign to collect pho- ized it would be so difficult to track tos of America’s fallen from Viet- down these photos. With today’s nam. At the time, 22 of technology, we take for granted Alexandria’s veterans were among the ease with which we can gather the missing photos. information.” The death Funeral “We asked the public to help Photos of Alexandria’s fallen will notice of Ross services for search through yearbooks, family appear online at VVMF’s Wall of Collins was Robert Dean published on appeared on photo albums and newspapers in Faces as well as on permanent dis- April 8, 1969. July 23, 1969. an effort to locate photos of those play at the future Education Cen- still unidentified,” Rue said. “We ter at The Wall, scheduled to open Lieutenant who was shot down made great progress but still had in 2020. over Cambodia in March of 1971. two photos that we were unable But Rue said there is still work He would make the seventh POW/ to obtain. Mike did some detective to be done. “Of the 67 names in- MIA from the Alexandria area. work and ultimately found those scribed at the Capt. Rocky Versace “Larry was the son of a career photos in the archives of the Alex- Memorial Plaza, we only have U.S. Air Force officer and his wid- andria Gazette newspaper.” family contact information for owed, Gold Star mother Jeannette McMorrow’s efforts, which lo- about 20,” said Rue, who is work- and younger sister Susan still live cated photos for Pvt. Ross Collins ing to track down family members in Alexandria,” Rue said. “But be- and Sgt. Robert Dean, completed of Alexandria’s fallen. “The De- cause he was a military brat, his the Faces Never Forgotten project partment of Defense issued Certifi- address of record is Los Angeles. for Alexandria. Current records cates of Honor to each of these But he was a local resident and as indicate that of the 50 U.S. states, Gold Star families as part of the with all of our veterans, we need four U.S. Territories and Washing- 50th anniversary commemoration to recognize his service and sacri- ton, D.C., 19 of these 55 have yet of the Vietnam War. As we track fice.” The Friends of Rocky Versace to locate all photos of their Viet- down a widow, parent or sibling, will hold its 17th annual Veterans nam fallen veterans. we hold a ceremony for them and Day ceremony Nov. 10 at 11 a.m. “I knew that Robert Dean had hope to one day have all families at the Capt. Rocky Versace Plaza graduated from Mount Vernon accounted for.” in Del Ray. The ceremony will take High School in 1967,” McMorrow Rue is also working to get ap- place indoors at the Mount Vernon said. “But his yearbook only men- proval to add one more name to Recreation Center, 2701 Common- tions his name — there is no year- the Rocky Versace Memorial – wealth Ave. For more information book photo. I even tracked down Lawrence E. Lilly, an Army 1st email [email protected].

8 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Focusing on Special Education From Page 3 first developed in the 1990s, Universal De- But the opportunity for improvement goes sign for Learning holds “aims to change the beyond special education. Eissenstat thinks design of the environment rather than to the kinds of improvements indicated in the change the learner,” according to CAST, an audit would help schools better “meet kids education research nonprofit. Training where they are” more generally — whether would seek to equip teachers in a more sys- those students grapple with a disability, tematized way in a range of teaching meth- learning English as a second language, be- ods and media that better align with stu- ing a refugee status, having suffered dents’ diverse learning styles and barriers. trauma, etc. This is especially true for ra- “When implemented consistently across cial “gap groups” persistently identified a division such as ACPS, [Universal Design through standardized testing, she said. for Learning] has the potential to improve Under the division’s Multi-Tiered System educational outcomes for all students, in- of Supports, first established in 2015, edu- cluding those with disabilities,” according cators are supposed to apply increasingly to the audit. However, the approach “does more personalized “interventions” for any not appear to be a widely understood or student exhibiting academic or behavioral implemented concept in [the school divi- challenges. Interventions might involve ex- sion],” even though the division “has con- tra instruction in small groups or one-on- ducted trainings on the topic in the past. In one, or time with a counselor. 2015-16, [the Office of Special Instruction] “The [multi-tiered] framework has been offered extensive professional development successfully used to support a reduction in with CAST on [Universal Design for Learn- disproportionate special education referrals ing], but reportedly no participants signed of students based on race, gender, or [En- up to attend.” glish learner] subgroups,” according to the Find the audit report, the proposed ac- audit. However, “implementation varies tion plan and information about upcoming greatly between schools, and occasionally public forums at www.acps.k12.va.us/Page/ between grades within the same school.” 2331. Through Tuesday, Nov. 20, the pub- In addition to honing the more reactive lic may provide feedback online at multi-tiered intervention approach, the au- www.acpsk12.org/news/?p=11008. The dit recommends the division enhance train- school administration expects to present the ing around the more proactive Universal final action plan to the School Board on Design for Learning. A school of thought Thursday, Dec. 20.

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 ❖ 9 Alexandria Opinion Gazette Packet

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Be Part of Children’s Edition 2018 An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. Some suggestions: and last name of the student artist/writer. Published by Get creative and send ❖ Drawings or paintings or photographs of Identify each piece of writing or art, includ- Local Media Connection LLC your family, friends, pets or some favorite ac- ing the student’s full name, age, grade and 1606 King Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314 art, poetry and more. tivity. These should be photographed or town of residence, plus the name of the school, Free digital edition delivered to scanned and submitted in jpeg format. Photos name of teacher and town of school location. your email box. Go to uring the last week of each year, of sculpture or larger art projects are also wel- Home schoolers’ contributions are welcomed. connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe this newspaper devotes its pages come. To send flash drives containing artwork and ❖ NEWS DEPARTMENT: Dto the creativity of local students Short answers (50 to 100 words) to some typed, electronic submissions, mark them [email protected] and children. The results are al- of the following questions: If you could give clearly by school and hometown and mail the Steven Mauren ways remarkable. It is a keepsake edition for your parents, family or friends any gift that flash drive to: Children’s Connection (includ- Editor, 703-778-9415 [email protected] many families. Even readers without children didn’t cost money what would that gift be? ing Children’s Gazette, Children’s Almanac and Jean Card of that age spend time admiring and chuck- What are you most looking forward to in the Children’s Centre View), 1606 King Street, Al- Production Editor ling over the issue. The annual Children’s Con- upcoming year? What is one thing that you exandria, VA 22314. [email protected] nection (including Children’s Gazette, would change about school? What do you want Please send all submissions by Monday, Dec. Vernon Miles Children’s Almanac and Children’s Centre to be when you grow up? What is your favor- 3, 2018. The Children’s Edition will publish Reporter, 757-472-3435 [email protected] View) is a tradition of well over a decade. ite animal? What is your favorite toy? What the last week of 2018. Jeanne Theismann We welcome contributions makes a good parent? What makes a good You can see last year’s editions by visiting [email protected] Editorial from public and private friend? Describe one of the best or worst things www.connectionnewspapers.com/PDFs/ and @TheismannMedia schools, art classes, individuals that ever happened to you? What is the best scroll down to Children’s Edition. John Bordner, Mark Mogle Contributing Photographers and homeschoolers. We publish gift you’ve ever been given? Ever received? Email submissions for the Children’s Edition [email protected] artwork, poetry, essays, creative writing, opin- ❖ Your opinion (50 to 100 words) about traf- to the following editors: Eden Brown, Shirley Ruhe, ion pieces, short stories, photography, photos fic, sports, restaurants, video games, toys, ❖ For Burke, Clifton, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, Dan Brendel Contributing Writers of sculpture or gardens or other creative ef- trends, politics, etc. Great Falls, Herndon, Lorton, McLean, Reston, [email protected] forts. ❖ Poetry or other creative writing. or Springfield, email to Kemal Kurspahic at We ask that all submissions be digital so they ❖ News stories from school newspapers. [email protected]. ADVERTISING: For advertising information can be sent through email or delivered on flash ❖ Photos and text about activities or events. ❖ For Arlington, Potomac, CentreView, [email protected] drive. Writing should be submitted in text for- ❖ Were you involved in November’s elec- Chantilly, Alexandria and Mount Vernon, 703-778-9431 mat. Artwork should be photographed or tions? What did you think? email to Steven Mauren, Debbie Funk Disply Advertising/National Sales scanned and provided in jpeg format. To be published, we must have the full first [email protected] 703-778-9444 [email protected]

Letters to the Editor Julie Ferrill Display Advertising, 703-927-1364 In Honor of cept whatever “findings” they [email protected] might present this time around as Tara Lloyd scientifically sound. Deservedly, Display Advertising, 703-740-7128 [email protected] Veterans Day Kimley-Horn demonstrates zero David Griffin To the Editor: credibility in the matter of prop- Marketing Assistant As we celebrate this Veterans erly delineating and assessing 703-778-9431 [email protected] Day, it’s a day to honor all who likely impacts to the freshwater Classified & Employment stood in line of duty for our coun- tidal channel wetlands that abut Advertising try — through all the years of war. the Alternative B site, and flows 703-778-9431 Just think of those who served our through the Scenic Easement and Publisher country, kept the faith and keep- Potomac Greens Park southeast- Jerry Vernon 703-549-0004 ing faith in our country while sup- ward to the tidal Potomac River. [email protected] ported by letters of hope and love The fact that the city has again Editor & Publisher from love ones. It’s a picture eas- called on this firm to reassess the Mary Kimm [email protected] ily painted within one’s own mind wetlands, only after their original @MaryKimm if only one takes the time within Photo by Geri Baldwin findings were challenged by more The Veterans’ Memorial Rock along the corner of the bike Editor in Chief their heart. qualified researchers, is not only Steven Mauren Maybe that’s the reason I write path of the 500 block of South Columbus Street and the misspent taxpayer dollars twice Art/Design: Laurence Foong, John Heinly, and share my concerns for our vet- 800 block of Wilkes Street. over by the city but another high Ali Khaligh Production Manager: erans and those we lost. You see likelihood of failure to properly Geovani Flores there’s this little plaque on a rock Mayor … Donald C. Casey, Coun- letter sent to the Virginia Marine delineate and assess the freshwa- Resources Commission. Editor Emeritus: at the Veterans Memorial Walkway cilman … Margaret B. Inman, ter tidal channel wetlands. Mary Anne Weber along the bike path of the 500 Councilwoman … Nelson E. It should be more than obvious This whole PYMS debacle has CIRCULATION block of South Columbus and the Greene, Sr., Councilman … James to any regulatory agency dealing now devolved to a farce. Circulation Manager: 800 block of Wilkes Street. Often P. Moran, Jr., Councilman … with the Potomac Yard Metro Sta- These are not Alexandria’s, Ann Oliver [email protected] pedestrians would stop and read Carlyle C. Ring, Jr., Councilman tion (PYMS) why it is unaccept- Virginia’s, or National Park Service’s the plaque on this rock through- ...” able for design and build firm (NPS) wetlands, but the nation’s. A Connection Newspaper out the year for it has a meaning In honor of all our men and Kimley-Horn to reassess the fresh- The Metro station is not worth the The Alexandria Gazette Packet is distributed weekly that speaks and touches the hearts women in uniform who have water tidal channel wetlands that destruction of freshwater tidal wet- to selected homes in the City of Alexandria. Any owners or occupants of premises that do not of those whom just take a moment served and fought for our coun- abut the proposed construction lands, critical wildlife habitat, and wish to receive the paper can notify the publisher by telephone at 703-778-9426 or by email to to read it: “Dedicated to the City try, you are not forgotten: Thanks. staging area for the project (Alter- NPS’ scenic and historic easement. [email protected], and the of Alexandria and Alexandria’s native B) — the same wetlands it There are viable alternatives that do distributor will be notified to discontinue service. Veterans’ Organizations On Veter- Activist Geri Baldwin egregiously missed in its initial re- not cause ecological damage and ans Day, Nov. 11, 1979, in Hon- Alexandria port that supported the city’s En- loss of open space. ored Memory of the Deceased Al- vironmental Impact Statement exandria Veterans of all the United (EIS) and Joint Permit Applica- C. Dara States wars. Their Service in War Fresh Eyes tion. Jimm Roberts and Peace Contributed Greatly to It is wrong and perverse for the Alexandria the Welfare of Their Fellow Citi- On Freshwater city to have Kimley-Horn again try zens … Charles E. Beatley, Jr., To the Editor: and determine PYMS-impacted See Letters, Page 13 Mayor … Robert L. Calhoun, Vice The following is from a Nov. 5, 2018 wetlands, or for regulators to ac- 10 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 ❖ 11 History The Three Burke Brothers Who Served Their Country By Char McCargo Bah nication lines. During his time in Germany, Shirley P. Harris. Like his brother, Henry, he he and his troop were attacked, and they worked for the Federal government and t was Dec. 7, 1941, when the Japa- found refuge in a Catholic Church. That retired. On Sept. 17, 2006 Tip died. His fu- nese bombed the American fleet in experience changed Henry; he converted to neral was at Alfred Street Baptist Church. IPearl Harbor, Hawaii; as a result of Catholicism. He is buried at Quantico in Prince William this attack, the United States declared Harry S. Burke, who was the youngest County, Va. Tip and his wife had four chil- War. Three brothers immediately knew they brother, enlisted in the Army on Dec. 8, dren. were going to enlist in the Army to protect 1943. He was 18. Harry was sent to France Harry Sylvester Burke used his military their county. and later to the South Pacific. After the benefits to go to college and, while he was Henry Oliver Burke, Robert “Tip” Landon Battle of Bulge, all three brothers were re- in college, he met and married Costella Burke, and Harry Sylvester Burke all broth- united in France. They had not seen each Grant. ers from Alexandria, enlisted in the Army other for a couple of years. Henry was the After earning his degree, he became a in 1942 and in 1943. Henry was the oldest first to return home. After he left France, school teacher in Washington, D.C., and of the three brothers. He was working in he was sent to the Philippines where he later a media director in the school system. Washington, D.C., for Rothstein Dental contracted malaria. On Jan. 2, 1946, Henry Besides his full-time job, he became very Works on I (Eye) Street, O. Burke sailed from the Philippines aboard active in the Alexandria community, volun- NW when Pearl Harbor the Duchess Ship to San Francisco, Calif. teering as a swimming instructor and a com- The Other was bombed. He enlisted Within a couple of years, all three men munity activist. Today, Harry is a widower, Alexandria in the Army nine-months had returned home with an honorable dis- he is being cared for by his only child. before his 21st birthday charge from the U.S. Army. They returned These three brothers came back from the and two months after the home to their widowed mother who lived war, got married, raised their children and Pearl Harbor incident. His brother, Tip, also at 1002 Oronoco St. Their father had died became active in their community. On Vet- enlisted in 1942. Both men were sent off to on Jan. 6, 1945 while they were serving erans Day, we should all remember the con- basic training in the colored troop. In May their country. tributions our veterans made to serve our Photo Courtesy of by of 1943, Henry and Tip were shipped over- Rosier and Hollie Harris Burke were the Ronald Burke of North Carolina country. I know the Burke family will be seas. Henry was sent to Germany and Tip parents of Henry, Robert and Harry Burke. remembering with us as well. Burke Brothers 1944: From left are was sent to the South Pacific. Henry O. Burke married Frances T. Watson. Robert “Tip” L. Burke, Henry O. Henry was engaged in one of the well- After his military career, he worked for the Char McCargo Bah is a freelance writer, indepen- Burke, and Harry S. Burke. dent historian, genealogist and a Living Legend of known battles, “Battle of the Bulge.” He was Federal government where he retired. On Alexandria. Visit her blog at http:// assigned to the communication team where Dec. 3, 1980 Henry died. He had a Catholic daughter. www.theotheralexandria.com for more about “The he was responsible for putting up commu- funeral service. He and his wife had one Robert “Tip” Landon Burke married Other Alexandria.”

12 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Opinion ‘Peter and the Starcatcher’ at St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes By Mary Lawler phan boy must protect it from the played by Fred Gehlhoff and An- Teen Theatre Company egotistic, ditsy pirate, Black drew Seale respectively. As Peter’s Stache. As non-stop adventure fellow orphans, Gehlhoff and vast! A storm’s a-brew- emanates off the stage, the boy Seale conveyed character develop- ing, me maties, on the journeys to realize that “there’s ment, commitment, and comedy. Aslippery stage of St. more important things in this Also providing laughs, Jackson de Stephen’s & St. Agnes world than saving your own neck” Vallance played the pining sailor School as “Peter and the and the audience discovers how he Alf with a humorous physicality. Starcatcher” takes to the high seas! becomes Peter Pan. All hands on deck! The decked- Three orphans, two ships, and one Cast off! Rather: cast, don’t get out set (by Skye Schofield-Saba, trunk full of starstuff cause more off the stage! The entire cast cre- Emma Hughes, and Zak Zeledon) excitement than a crocodile found ated a ceaseless exuberance that caused the story to set sail. The swingin’ in yer hammock. brought the play full sail. Whether two ships cleverly lay side by side,

Photo by Jameson Bloom Who was Peter Pan executing narration or panto- one on either half of the stage. The Cappies before he became The mime, the players didn’t skip a set pieces were detailed, with bar- Boy Who Wouldn’t kitchen-timer’s tick. nacles and shaded wood, and con- Review Grow Up? Based on a Bette Vajda portrayed Peter with veyed the shabbiness of the 2004 novel, Rick Elice’s sincerity in her every action and Neverland versus the spiffiness of play tells this story through a emotion, as evidenced whenever the Wasp. swash-buckling script. “Peter and her right hand would start to jit- The production technically radi- the Starcatcher” premiered in ter. Molly Aster came to life ated the enchanting atmosphere. 2009 at University of California, through the strong performance of Soft, blue lighting echoed the San Diego and sailed on to win five Julie Newman who expressed a ocean’s prominence in the play From left: Julie Newman, Bette Vajda, Fred Gehlhoff, and Tony Awards in 2012. girl-of-action and good-hearted and rotating yellow lights indi- Andrew Seale. This prequel begins as Molly intelligence. Mary Margaret cated magic. The sound (by Aster, an eager apprentice Lehmkuhler fully immersed her- Zachary Gaydos and Abbie ated by manipulating a recording ploits, and impressive atmosphere. starcatcher, is sent aboard a ship self into her role of the crazy Black Henshaw) was fabulous. Differ- of people yelling simultaneously. “Everything ends” the play tells us. named the Neverland as her fa- Stache, bouncing back and forth ently themed, live music played at Many ambient sounds transported But “Peter and the Starcatcher” will ther, Lord Aster, embarks on the from cracking jokes with swag to different times to tie in with what the audience into the settings of live on in our hearts, forever young. Wasp. His mission: to destroy a playing the angry guy. Lehmkuhler was happening on stage, such as the play, whether the tropical Now let’s go eat some pineapple trunk of magical starstuff so that impressively held Stache’s drawl- flute playing while Peter had a jungle, the seashore, or atop the with Ted. it will not fall into the hands of ing accent throughout. wistful monologue. The music and ocean’s waves. Britain’s enemies. When the trunk Two other memorable charac- the mics, delicately balanced, St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School’s The Cappies, “Critics and Awards Pro- “Peter and the Starcatcher” capti- gram,” is a program through which high is secretly swapped out and ters are Ted (who is obsessed with didn’t overpower the actors for the school theatre and journalism students brought aboard the Neverland, food) and Prentiss (who is ob- most part. One inventive sound vated audiences by its quirky char- are trained as critics, attend shows at Molly and a bitter, nameless or- sessed with being the leader) effect was the crocodile’s roar, cre- acter portrayals, enthusiastic ex- other schools, and write reviews. Letters to the Editor

From Page 10 parents didn’t go to college. sal (e.g., those wonderful nate students by racial groups. In schemes, contrary to their lofty When, however, has that not McGuffey Readers read at one effect, ACPS has reverted to seg- aims, have consistently produced Fully Audit been the case in this country? time by every elementary school regation of its students: while “ex- a regrettable, even immoral effect Since the mid-19th century, waves child across the country), and the ceptional” children are protec- … social injustice. Moreover, it is Schools of immigrants from different cul- primary classroom language En- tively enrolled in “quest” and “ad- not only the racially discriminated tures speaking a babel of lan- glish. vanced placement” classes, others groups that are underperforming; To the Editor: guages have arrived on our shores, Notwithstanding this admirable —stigmatized because their this year, the scores of all groups Congratulations to newly integrated, and gone on to make national history, our city has for mother tongue is not English — tanked. elected and re-elected School countless positive contributions to decades chosen a radically differ- are relegated to bilingual and A suggested alternate approach: Board members. All Alexandrians the commonweal. They have been ent path, and that choice has for multicultural education programs simply determine what content all wish you success, as the collective our greatest asset. The agent of decades yielded failing results. and an “international academy” students need to learn, progres- well-being depends on the future that success? America’s public Each year Alexandria public school that ghettoizes immigrants away sively over the course of their edu- of our youth. In that regard, lest it schools, where the expectations scores on standardized tests plumb from the very peers who would cation in elementary and high be forgotten, the purpose of were high, the teaching and learn- new depths. The identity politics facilitate their assimilation. These schools is to educate (from the See Letters, Page 21 ing rigorous, the content univer- that inform the system discrimi- unproven social-engineering Latin educare, meaning to lead for- ward). No, our “promise to stu- dents” is not stadium lights but an education. Clearly, you have your work cut out for you. Despite all the happy talk of the recent campaign, the latest stan- dardized academic assessments indicate that Alexandria’s public schools continue to be among the worst-performing (albeit most ex- pensive) in the region and the country. School apologists — per- versely, those same people who purport to advocate for “commu- nities of color” (as contrasted with, what, the colorless?) — blame the demographics. The students are poor and underprivileged, they don’t speak English at home, their www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 ❖ 13 14 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Wellbeing

The impact of sleep deprivation A Good Night’s Sleep and how to avoid it.

By Marilyn Campbell rious drug use in kids and adolescence. Each duced negative mood.” hour more of sleep a night adolescents get “During sleep, the body releases hor- or those with seemingly endless to- Photo by Marilyn Campbell is associated with less depression, suicide, mones that stimulate growth, increase do lists, taking a nap or sleeping and drug use for teens,” said Winsler. “But muscle mass, and repair cells and tissues,” Flate might seem like a luxury they generally, the reality is that most kids and said Julia Dorsey, RN, School Public Health can’t afford. Foregoing sleep in lieu teens are considered deprived. A lack of Nurse – Fairfax County Health Department. of checking email, doing laundry or study- sleep hurts them emotionally and can make “Hormones also help boost the immune sys- ing for an exam, could decrease the quality them feel depressed and grumpy. Younger tem to better fight infection. Chronic sleep of those tasks. children who don’t get adequate sleep can deficiency is linked to an increased risk of “Two well-known effects of inadequate experience problems with self-control and obesity and type II diabetes, as well as heart sleep are cognitive processing problems in- behavior regulation.” disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.” cluding attention, storing information and “When we are tired, we are more likely retrieving information from memory,” said Avoiding activities like playing to be agitated and this affects social rela- ADEQUATE SLEEP can be elusive in a Dr. Linda Gulyn, professor of psychology at video games before bed can im- tionships. [Someone who’s sleep deprived] social environment where social media and Marymount University. “That’s why some- prove the quality of one’s sleep, might have a tough time completing tasks,” information on demand are prevalent. “It’s one who is consistently sleepy has difficulty says researchers. added Gulyn. critical to reduce screen time before bed and in classes, getting work done, and taking There are physical and mental health ben- not allow video games and computers and tests. This is problematic especially for high author of an article published in the Jour- efits to getting proper sleep, says Dr. Jerome phones use late at night,” said Winsler. school and college students.” nal of Youth and Adolescence called “Sleep- Short, a clinical psychologist and associate “Dimming the lights and doing calming ac- The Centers for Disease Control and Pre- less in Fairfax …” professor of psychology at George Mason tivities also helps. One big ussie is that teens vention recommends that school-aged chil- But in addition to a decrease in produc- University who has also studied the effect sleep with their phones next to them and dren get nine to 12 hours of sleep each tivity, a lack of adequate sleep can have a of sleep patterns on overall health and the phones vibrate and wake them up.” night, teenagers get eight to 10 hours, negative impact on one’s overall wellbeing. wellness. “Sleep clears the brain of toxic “Daily exercise, reduced light, physical adults 18-65 get seven to eight and adults Winsler’s study looked at 39,000 8th, 10th proteins, repairs muscles, and restores the comfort, and a regular sleep routine of go- 65 and older get seven to eight hours. The and 12th graders in Fairfax County. The re- immune system. Adequate sleep is associ- ing to bed and getting up at the same time CDC also reports that one in three people searchers recorded the average number of ated with less obesity, diabetes, heart dis- increase duration of, and satisfaction with, don’t get enough sleep. hour of sleep the teens get each night and ease, and cancer,” he said. “In recent re- sleep,” added Dr. Jerome Short. “This country is very achievement-ori- found that sleep deprivation can have a search with college students, I found that To improve the quality of one’s sleep, ented. It’s go, go, go and we think that sleep- profound impact on mental health and cer- the combination of vigorous exercise and Gulyn advises that “if sleep problems are ing is for wimps,” said Adam Winsler, Ph.D. tain behaviors. “We found that getting eight sleep satisfaction led to next day positive associated with excessive worry or depres- professor of applied developmental psychol- to nine hours of sleep each night lowers the mood, he said. “The combination of mod- sion, then it’s important to seek professional ogy at George Mason University and lead risk of underage drinking, smoking and se- erate exercise and longer sleep led to re- advice.”

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 ❖ 15 Entertainment Festival Features 60 Filmmakers, 70 Films

tional video contest “Lights, Camera, Save.” Annual event returns ❖

Photo by Ruthi Da Salute to Service Members Showcase — Fea- tures four films, including three premieres on Vet- Nov. 8. erans Day Weekend. Veterans and active service members will be admitted free of charge with one he 12th Annual Alexandria Film Festi- guest to this showcase, first come, first served. val brings more than 70 films to de- Seating is only guaranteed through advance pur- light, entertain, and inform area film chase online. vid T ❖ enthusiasts Nov. 8-11. Two “Film Noir” Showcases — Extend the Hal- The celebration begins Thursday, Nov. 8 with a loween chills with these thrillers. Shrek – Aidan White, Donkey – Avery Johnson, Fiona – free program of six short films, screening outdoors ❖ “Meant to be Broken” — A clever “dramedy” Kendall Huheey, Gingy – Eli Swanson, The White Rabbit – at Waterfront Park in Old Town. The “Free Flow- about a mild-mannered guy who has never bro- Lydia Lopez, and Pinocchio – Charlie Russell. ing Musical Experience” will kick things off at 6:30 ken a rule, while he tries to cope with some very p.m., with the shorts beginning at 7 p.m. There bad news by breaking them all. Q&A following Shrek The Musical will be free popcorn for the first 100 guests. with D.C. filmmaker Jonathan Zuck. Mount Vernon Community Children’s Theatre presents “Shrek The Musical” star- AMC Hoffman 22 Theater and Beatley Central ❖ “The Makeover” — A conservative policy ring 46 local youth from more than 22 area schools. An unlikely hero, Shrek finds Library serve as the principal venues with more wonk learns to embrace his feminine, alter ego, himself on a life-changing journey alongside the wisecracking Donkey and a feisty than 60 filmmakers presenting films over the fes- Giselle. Q&A with Alexandria Filmmaker Jane princess who resists her rescue. “Shrek the Musical” is irreverent fun for the whole family and proves that beauty is truly in the eye of the ogre. The show will be per- tival weekend. See full program details at Pittman and Giselle Donnelly. World premiere. formed Nov. 9-18 at Bryant Alternative High School Auditorium, 2709 Popkins AlexFilmFest.com. Ticketed shows can be found ❖ “Hunting Lands” — A veteran-turned-recluse Lane, Alexandria. Show times are Nov. 9, 10, 16 and 17 at 7 p.m.; and Nov. 11 at AlexFilmFest.Eventbrite.com for $12 or $15 at witnesses the aftermath of a heinous crime and and 18 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $14/per person online at www.mvcct.org. the door. An All-Fest pass is also available for $50 takes justice into his own hands. Calendar at AlexFilmFest.Eventbrite.com or $70 at the door. ❖ “Trickster” — A man’s life is forever changed With more than 50 premieres when he meets a beautiful Submit entertainment announcements Book Discussion. 7 p.m. at Charles E. of short and feature-length young woman who needs help. at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- Beatley, Jr. Central Library, 5005 films, the festival features films A “Twilight Zone” meets “Incep- endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. Duke St., Alexandria. Free. Join Photos/artwork encouraged. author Joseph Esposito as he talks from around the world includ- tion” thriller. East coast pre- about his book “Dinner in Camelot: ing Canada, France, India, miere. Q&A with filmmaker The Night America’s Greatest ONGOING Scientists, Writers, and Scholars Lebanon, Spain, South Africa, Jamie Paolinetti ❖ Rooms: a Rock Romance. Through Partied at the Kennedy White United Arab Emirates, the U.K., “American Exploitation: Nov. 11, Thursdays and Fridays at 8, House.” Email Anton Murray at and the U.S. Local filmmakers The Slaves Among Us” — Inves- Saturdays at 3 and 8, Sundays at 3 [email protected]. will screen new work and sev- tigates sex trafficking in subur- and 7 p.m. at MetroStage in THURSDAY-SUNDAY/NOV. 8-11 Alexandria. The play is set in eral directors, producers, actors ban America. Q&A with film- Glasgow in the1970s. Monica, an Used Book Sale. At Duncan Library, and crew will take questions from the audience. makers Benjamin Brothers and John Carter. World ambitious singer-songwriter meets 2501 Commonwealth Ave., Alexandria. Come shop the selection Free screenings at Beatley Central Library are premiere. Ian, a reclusive rocker. They quickly ❖ become entangled creatively and of thousands of books and DVDs on Friday, Nov. 10 from 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. at “American Relapse” — An inside look at the romantically with their music and priced starting at just $.50. The $5/ 5005 Duke St., Alexandria. heroin epidemic in Southern Florida and the un- their quest for stardom taking them bag sale is Sunday from 1-3 p.m. Ticketed screenings at AMC Hoffman Theater derground “rehabilitation” industry that sprung from Glasgow to London and Become a Friend of the Library at ultimately New York City. A gritty friendsofduncanlibrary.org and shop 22 are on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 10-11 at 206 up, not to combat but to profit. Q&A with film- rock musical exploring the universal a special preview on Wednesday, Swamp Fox Road, Alexandria. Tickets are avail- maker Pat McGee. desire to escape and create, to love Nov. 7. Cash and credit cards able at AlexFilmFest.Eventbrite.com. ❖ “Iron Orchard” — Virginia Premiere of an epic and explore. Tickets are $55. Call the accepted. Hours are Thur. 10-6:45 theatre at 703-548-9044 or visit p.m., Fri. 10-5:45 p.m., Sat. 10-4:45 Highlights include: rise and fall of a Texas oilman torn between love www.metrostage.org. p.m., and Sun. 1-3 p.m. Visit ❖ Burke and Herbert Bank Family Showcase — and ambition. Q&A with filmmaker Camille Cham- Art Exhibit: “Connecting www.friendsofduncanlibrary.org. Features five premieres for, by, or about younger bers. Threads.” Through Nov. 25 at Del FRIDAY/NOV. 9 Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon viewers and their families, presented by nine film- The festival concludes with an awards ceremony Ave., Alexandria. See the exhibit and Alexandria After Work Concert makers including the grand prizewinner in the na- and closing reception on Sunday. donate new towels for Carpenter’s Series. 6-8 p.m. at the Lloyd House, Shelter from Nov. 2-25. Visit 220 North Washington St. The www.DelRayArtisans.org/event/ Folklore Society of Greater connecting-threads. Washington and The Office of Armistice is on view through Sunday, a Pancake Breakfast – A perfect way a.m.-4 p.m. At Mount Vernon Estate, Historic Alexandria sponsor a concert Dec. 2. The U.S. Navy began to treat a Veteran. Adult $10; Alexandria. Enjoy a concert by the WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY/NOV. 7-11 on the second Friday of the month construction on the original building, children 12 and under $3. Contact Harmony Heritage Singers or the Friends Book Sale. At James M. with locations rotating between the the U.S. Naval Torpedo Station, on Reba Morse at 703-339-7099. United States Air Force Strings before Duncan, Jr. Branch Library, 2501 Murray-Dick-Fawcett House, Lloyd Nov. 12, 1918—ironically the day Environment Expo. 8 a.m.-noon at greeting “General and Lady Commonwealth Avenue, Alexandria. House, and The Lyceum, Alexandria’s after Armistice Day ended WWI. The Walt Whitman Middle School, 2500 Washington.” Throughout the day, Free. Friends First Choice Night on History Museum. Concert features building manufactured and Parkers Lane, Alexandria. The write a thank you letter to an active Wednesday, Nov. 7 from 3:30-8:45 Cold Chocolate. $15 suggested maintained torpedoes through the Environment Expo: Saving the Earth duty service member in the Vaughan p.m. Discover great books for sale for donation for the musicians, light end of World War II. Visit One Person at a Time will feature an Lobby. Honored guests are also bargain prices, and support your refreshments available, and a cash torpedofactory.org. Exhibit Hall with a variety of County invited to place a flower at local library. Email bar. Visit www.fsgw.org. agencies, service providers and Washington’s Tomb. Included with [email protected]. Visit the Family Splash Night. 6-9 p.m. At SATURDAY/NOV. 10 educators, informational and hands- general admission, free for all active website www.alexlibraryva.org. Chinquapin Park Rec Center and Environment Expo. 8 a.m.-noon. At on workshops and screenings of the duty, former, or retired military Aquatics Facility, 3210 King St., Walt Whitman Middle School, 2500 film “Hometown Habitat.” The goal personnel. Visit THURSDAY/NOV. 8 Alexandria. Featuring Charles Barrett Parkers Lane, Alexandria. Mount of the Expo is to educate and inform www.mountvernon.org/veteransday. Opening Reception: and Jefferson-Houston Schools. Enjoy Vernon District Supervisor Dan residents on environmental Veterans Day Commemoration. 9 “Pattern+Texture.” 6:30-8 p.m. swimming, a floating obstacle course, Storck will host his first Environment challenges that we all face on a daily a.m. At Historic Pohick Episcopal at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, games, relays, refreshments, music, Expo to explore how everyone can basis, including ones that are unique Church, 9301 Richmond Highway, 105 North Union Street, Studio 21, diving for prizes and more. Different help save the planet, with the theme to the Mount Vernon area given our Lorton. The day will begin at 9 a.m. Alexandria. Photographer Pete schools are featured at each event “Saving the Earth One Person at a proximity to water and the many with the dedication of a Virginia McCutchen captures mesmerizing but all are welcome. Admission is $4 Time.” industrial facilities nearby. Visit Historical Highway Marker in honor patterns found in rock, ice, and sand, per person upon entry. Pancake Breakfast. 8-11 a.m. at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ of the “The Washingtons at Pohick transforming natural scenery into Art of Armistice Reception. 7-10 Pema’s Restaurant, 8430 Richmond mountvernon/environment-expo- Church.” At 9:30 a.m., there will be a abstract, alternate realities. Call 703- p.m. with Juror Talk at 8 p.m. At the Highway, Alexandria. The Mt. saving-earth-one-person-time. reception honoring Ann Arnhart, 683-1780 or visit theartleague.org. Torpedo Gallery, Alexandria. Art of Vernon Evening Lions will be having Mount Vernon Salutes Veterans. 9 WWII Army Nurse, in the parish hall, 16 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment 4 Top Spots for a Plant-Based Meal

By Hope Nelson the vegetable burrito and bowl are both within easy reach and are certainly worth your time (and calo- orld Vegan Day, commemorating all things ries). Wplant-based and celebrating a plant- based, animal-free lifestyle, kicked off a Hard Times Café, 1404 King St. month of celebration on Nov. 1. As food culture con- At first blush, a chili joint may not seem to be the tinues to shift, it’s become easier than ever to order most vegetarian-friendly spot on the planet. But look up a meat- and dairy-free meal nearly anywhere in again at Hard Times Café’s menu and you’ll see a town — and sometimes in the spots you’d least ex- hearty vegetarian chili right there amid the pect to find them. restaurant’s four options. Indeed, Hard Times has offered a plant-based chili since well before such Sunday in Saigon, 682 N. St. Asaph St. options began to take the main stage, and while its Old Town’s newest Vietnamese haven offers a ingredients have changed a little over time (no more wealth of vegetable-centric entrees, ranging from Hu peanuts in the stew, for one), the deep tomato-based Tieu Xao, a rice noodle dish teeming with tofu and comfort food remains the same. Order a bowl of it veggies, to Com Tay Cam Chay, a rice dish served in straight — no sour cream or cheese, of course — or a clay pot topped with seitan, pump- get it atop spaghetti, Fritos or tater tots for a pro- kin, leeks and more. Most notably, last tein-and-carb delight. Appetite week, Sunday in Saigon announced that their progressively priced Tuesday Pizzeria Paradiso, 124 King St. pho deal now applies to vegetarian tofu pho as well, When it comes to a dairy-free meal, pizza joints meaning that the piping-hot dish is $5 at 5 p.m., $6 are hit-and-miss. But Pizzeria Paradiso, near the foot at 6, $7 at 7, and $8 at 8 p.m. of King Street, comes through with a bang. Every offering on the menu can be made with dairy-free Tequila and Taco, 540 John Carlyle St. cheese — and sans meat, for that matter. A go-to is It’s no secret that Mexican restaurants are gener- the Genovese, a potato pizza drizzled with olive oil. ally veg-friendly, but Carlyle newcomer Tequila and Order it without the pesto and with the dairy-free Taco goes the extra mile with its interesting plant- cheese and you’re on Easy Street. Wash the pie down based taco offerings. Both the cauliflower and kale with one of Paradiso’s many beer selections and a and mushroom tacos fit the bill when it comes to good time will be had by all. spiciness, rich flavor and outside-the-box thinking (the black-bean tacos so ubiquitous to vegetarian Hope Nelson owns and operates the Kitchen Recessionista Mexican cuisine are not even given billing on the blog, located at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her any menu). Not in the mood for tacos? No problem — time at [email protected]. Calendar A Community Favorite followed by the premier of the Veteran’s Day Lecture. 11 a.m. at to chocolate production. After finding documentary film: “Ann Arnhart.” The Alexandria History Museum at the ingredients, observe how The morning’s events will conclude The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St., chocolate was made in George Since 1904 with an 11 a.m. Colonial-period Alexandria. Free Veterans Day lecture Washington’s time while learning Morning Prayer Service in the by C.R. Gibbs, “Come Out Fighting: about the history and science. Call historic church. Call 703-339-6572, How the Original Black Panthers and 703-780-2000 or visit or visit the website at Other African Americans Helped to www.MountVernon.org. www.pohick.org. Defeat the Axis and Win World War The United States Air Force Band. Bird Walk. 9-10:30 a.m. at Green II.” This presentation describes the 2 p.m. at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring gallant and inspiring story of the St., Alexandria. The United States Road, Alexandria. Wander through nation’s first African American Navy Concert Band will present a the autumn gardens where birds are armored unit. Visit special Veterans Day Weekend making their preparations for the www.alexandriava.gov/Lyceum. performance. The chamber music cold winter ahead. Bring field Autumn Fest Beer Festival. 11:30 recital performance will feature a glasses, if you have them, and Green a.m.-4 p.m. at Pizzeria Paradiso Old diverse array of traditional and Spring will provide a bird search Town, 124 King Street, Alexandria. contemporary music. This sheet. Warm up with some hot cider This season’s festival features 21 performance is free and open to the and talk with your guide about the brews from 21 Virginia-based public. Visit www.nfaa.org or call birds you see and hear. Cost is $10 independent breweries. The festival 703-548-0035. per person. Call 703-642-5173 or has no entrance fee but guests can AAUW Meeting. 2 p.m. at Heritage visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ purchase drink vouchers for $15 Presbyterian Church, 8503 Fort Hunt green-spring. which include three 6 oz. beer Road, Alexandria. Free. American Craft Fair. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at First samples and a free Autumn Fest Association of University Women Mt. Since 1904, The Royal has been Old Town’s Favorite neighborhood Christian Church, 2723 King Street, glass. The event will also feature Vernon Branch presents AAUW Then Alexandria. First Christian Church entertainment for the whole family and Now with Suzanne Gould, restaurant. Award-winning menu includes prime rib, fresh seafood, roast invites you to unwrap the holiday like corn hole, giant Jenga, and AAUW Archivist and Historian. Learn chicken best burgers hand-carved roast turkey and salad bar. season by shopping at its craft fair/ board games. Pizzeria Paradiso’s non- about AAUW’s founding story and pancake breakfast. Visit the website profit partner, Art Works Now, a work throughout its 137-year history. www.fccalexandria.com. local organization which provides Light refreshments will be available. Serving Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner Civil War Tours. 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at arts programming for the community, Call 703-360-8678, or visit Fort Ward Museum, 4301 W. will have mini-pumpkin painting for mtvernon-va.aauw.net. Braddock Road, Alexandria. Fort a suggested donation of $5. Taste of Thanksgiving History. 2 Full Buffet with Ward Museum will offer soldier-led Learn to Discern. 12 p.m. At Kate p.m. at Lee-Fendall House, Save 50% tours of historic Fort Ward in honor Waller Barrett Branch Library, 717 Alexandria. Food historian Joyce Omelette Station of Veteran’s Day. Tours are free, and Queen St., Alexandria. Free. Author White will give a lecture and tasting On second dinner entree will begin in the Museum. . Call Fort of Raising America’s Zoo, the story of program. Tickets are $15 per person Saturday and Ward Museum at 703-746-4848. the National Zoo’s shift from a for this 90 minute program and are of equal or lesser value Portside History. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Victorian-era menagerie to its current available at Old Town Alexandria waterfront, 1 day center for animal conservation, www.leefendallhouse.org. Sunday Brunch when you mention this ad. King St., Alexandria. Free. On Nov. research and education. Email Author Talk. 2 p.m. at Ellen Coolidge 10: Honoring Our Veteran. Through [email protected] or visit Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary 7am-2pm Offer expires 11/30/18. the centuries, war brought changes alexlibraryva.org. Road, Alexandria. Author of Raising and challenges to the waterfront. See Mount Vernon Kitchen. 1-3 p.m. At America’s Zoo, the story of the archival documents and images George Washington’s Mount Vernon, National Zoo’s shift from a Victorian- 734 North St. Asaph Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 highlighting everything from 3200 Mount Vernon Highway, Mount era menagerie to its current day embargos to wartime industries as Vernon. Admission: $35 per person. center for animal conservation, Alexandria commemorates the 100th Participate in a scavenger hunt in the research and education. Email 703-548-1616

Anniversary of WWI. Visit historic area and discover locations [email protected] ALEXANDRIA’S NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT • SINCE 1904 RoyalRestaurantVA.com www.PortsideInOldTown.com. and ingredients that were important Thanksgiving 1621-Present. 2-3:30 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 ❖ 17 Entertainment p.m. at Lee-Fendall House, 614 Oronoco Duncan, Jr. Branch Library, 2501 Street, Alexandria. This program Commonwealth Avenue, Alexandria. explores the traditions that have Free. The Friends of Duncan Library made Thanksgiving the truly are sponsoring A Year of Great Art American holiday that it is, followed House Films on the first Wednesday by samples of Thanksgiving food of each month. Due to the book sale, from four centuries. Tickets $15. Visit this month they will view our film on www.leefendallhouse.org. the second Wednesday. Contact Anton Murray at SATURDAY-MONDAY/NOV. 10-12 [email protected]. Colonial Market & Fair. Hours are Weaving and Beading. 7 p.m. At Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m.-4 Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, p.m.; Monday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at 5005 Duke Street, Alexandria. Free. George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Explore traditional skills and use Features dozens of America’s historic them to make a craft in honor of craftspeople and plenty of family fun. Native American Heritage Month. All Colonial-attired artisans demonstrate ages with adult. Contact Anton 18th-century crafts and sell Murray at traditional wares such as food, [email protected]. woodcarvings, metalwork, furniture, and more. Visit mountvernon.org/ THURSDAY/NOV. 15 colonialfair. Historic Pohick Church Christmas SSSAS Presents ‘Peter and the Starcatcher’ Mart. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Pohick SUNDAY/NOV. 11 A magical adventure that reveals the origins of Peter Pan, Wendy, the Lost Boys, and their piratical nemesis, Captain Hook Episcopal Church, 9301 Richmond Armistice Day Ceremony. 10 a.m. at – and a far-off place known as Neverland. Friday-Saturday, Nov. 9-10, 7:30 p.m. At St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School, 1000 Highway, Lorton. The Parish House Gadsby’s Ballroom, 400 Cameron St., St. Stephen’s Road, Alexandria. $5; call 703-212-2777 or visit sssas.org/arts. and the Vestry House will be Alexandria. The American Legion transformed into a festive Christmas Post 24 of Alexandria will be holding atmosphere with rooms filled with an Armistice Day ceremony. To Station Blvd., Alexandria. Melanie 51424931354. The Round House by Louise Erdich. Attic Treasures, a Consignment Shop, commemorative the 100 years Barr-Brooks, J.D., Associate Vice Celebrate Native American Heritage fresh baked goods, homemade candy anniversary, an Alexandria City President, Fair Practices, Northern TUESDAY/NOV. 13 Month for a discussion of a page- and apple butter, and frozen representative jointly with American Virginia Community College will Alexandria Women in World War turning masterpiece by one of the casseroles made by the women of Legion officers will unveil a new speak to the Alexandria Branch of I. 7 p.m. at The Lyceum, 201 S. most revered novelists of our time Pohick Church. Colonial-attired plaque that will be affixed to the side AAUW (American Association of Washington Street, Alexandria. The and a brilliant chronicler of Native- ladies will serve luncheon at three of the historical Post home to honor University Women). Her topic is the Alexandria-Caen Sister Cities American life. Contact Anton Murray sittings (11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m.) local World War I heroes. Visit current status of Title IX, passed in presents a lecture by Elizabeth at [email protected]. for $13. Admission to the Christmas www.alexandriava.gov/historic/info/ 1972 as a follow-up to the Civil Foxwell, editor of “In Their Own Rock the Block. 6-9 p.m. Eat at the Mart is free. Visit www.pohick.org or default.aspx?id=93363 Rights Act of 1964. The event is open Words: American Women in World top restaurants in Old Town and call 703-339-6572. Free Tours on Veterans Day. 11 to the public. Email gailkalin@ War I.” Featuring wine, desserts and support the National Center for The Georgetown Saxatones A a.m.-4 p.m. at Gadsby’s Tavern yahoo.com or [email protected]. light fare. Cost of $10 per person Missing and Exploited Children. Each Cappella Concert. 7 p.m. At The Museum, 134 N. Royal St., Thanks for Giving. 4-8 p.m. At Rachel supports ACSCC programs. For guest will receive a wristband at their Athenaeum, 201 Prince St., Alexandria. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum M. Schlesinger Concert Hall, 4915 information and tickets, visit reserved “starting restaurant” and Alexandria. As Georgetown’s only was saved from destruction thanks to East Campus Drive, Alexandria. Free. shop.alexandriava.gov. Contact enjoy unlimited food and drink at all community service a cappella group, the efforts of American Legion Post A seasonal community concert [email protected] participating restaurants. Admission: they are passionate about sharing #24. To honor this connection, tours presented by The National Capital or call 202-907-5941. $125; $300 for VIP and includes their music in support of worthy of the Museum on Veteran’s Day will Band of the Salvation Army. Email reception from 5-6:30 p.m. and after causes. Proceeds to benefit the be free for all guests. Visit [email protected]. WEDNESDAY/NOV. 14 party 9-11 p.m. Call 877-446-2632, Saxatones’ preferred charity: the D.C. alexandriava.gov/historic. For tickets, visit Book Discussion. 2 p.m. At Ellen ext.3145 or visit the website Autism Society. Tickets $15. Visit AAUW Talk. 2-4 p.m. At Cameron www.eventbrite.com/e/thanks-for- Coolidge Burke Branch Library, 4701 www.rocktheblocks.org. www.nfaa.org or call 703-548-0035. Station Clubhouse, 200 Cameron giving-2018-concert-tickets- Seminary Road, Alexandria. Free. Winter’s Bone. 6:30 p.m. At James M. Sortie of the Beaujolais Nouveau.

Special thank to

18 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment

7:30-10 p.m. at The Lloyd House, 220 N. Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ menu includes tea and 18th-century Washington St., Alexandria. Join the mountvernon. desserts. Tickets: $36/adult, $20/ Alexandria-Caen Sister Cities Walking with Washington Tour. 10 youth. Visit www.mountvernon.org. Committee and the Office of a.m.–noon at the Alexandria Visitor Alexandria Cider Festival. 2-6 p.m. Alexandria, and participate in the Center (Ramsay House), 221 King At Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington world’s largest wine party. On St., Alexandria. Free. Explore St., Alexandria. Enjoy a selection of Beaujolais Nouveau Day, parties are important sites associated with ciders from more than 12 Virginia held throughout France Cost of $40 George Washington in his hometown cideries. Ticket includes tastings, a per person supports ACSCC of Alexandria. This guided walking souvenir glass, live music and fun fall programs. Call 703-746-4994 or visit tour of historic Old Towne covers activities. Food trucks will also be on- alexandriava.gov/Shop. significant people and events in site. Additional tasting tickets and Washington’s life and in American tasting lectures available for NOV. 15-JAN. 6 history. No reservations required. purchase. Dress for the weather—this Art Exhibit – Re:Vision. Gallery Call 703-379-7460 or visit event is outdoors. $45. Visit hours at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince www.washingtonbirthday.com. www.visitalexandriava.com/fall. St., Alexandria. In Re:Vision, Dinorock Production Puppet Elizabeth Casqueiro reflects on the Show. 10 and 11:15 a.m. At Durant SUNDAY/NOV. 18 emotional content of immigration Arts Center, 1605 Cameron St., MIN–Contemporary Flute and and what it means to push forward Alexandria. Dinorock Production Guitar Duo. 1 p.m. At The with a new life while remaining puppeteers will explore Athenaeum, 201 Prince St., pulled by the old. Visit www.nfaa.org characteristics that human babies and Alexandria. Free. “MIN” will engage or call 703-548-0035. dinosaur babies share, using award the audience with music from many winning music and dynamic diverse styles and genres including FRIDAY/NOV. 16 puppetry. Reservations per show are Division Arch, 2018, photograph printed on metallic baroque, be-bop, blues, bossas, Cape Science. 4 p.m. At James M. $5 for all ages (adults and children). paper ballads, broadway and beyond. Visit Duncan Jr. Branch Library, 2501 Children must be accompanied by at www.nfaa.org or call 703-548-0035. Commonwealth Ave., Alexandria. least one adult. Visit Opening Reception – Re:Vision. 4- Free. Mixed Reactions explores the www.alexandriava.gov/webtrac. 6 p.m. at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince signs and signatures of chemical Kids Krafts. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At Art Exhibit: ‘Pattern+Texture’ St., Alexandria. In Re:Vision, changes, featuring one of the most Friendship Firehouse Museum, 107 S. Photographer Pete McCutchen captures mesmerizing patterns found in rock, ice, Elizabeth Casqueiro reflects on the exciting areas of chemistry: Alfred St., Alexandria. Create and and sand, transforming natural scenery into abstract, alternate realities. Presented emotional content of immigration combustion. Contact Anton Murray at take home craft projects inspired by in monochrome and printed on metallic paper, McCutchen’s photographs bewitch and what it means to push forward [email protected]. early firefighting history. This with a new life while remaining the eye with their ability to evoke two-dimensional patterns; jagged rocks become Community Dance. 7:30-9:30 p.m. At program is for ages 5-8 and their pulled by the old. Visit Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 caregivers. Space is limited, pre- houndstooth; sand dunes pose as pinstripes. Exhibit runs through Dec. 2, gallery www.nvfaa.org. Shenandoah Road, Alexandria. Third purchased timed tickets are required. hours at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 North Union Street, Studio 21, Alex- Capitol Steps UCM Benefit. 5 p.m. Friday Community Dance with the $5 per child includes a craft kit and andria. An opening reception is planned for Thursday, Nov. 8, 6:30-8 p.m. Visit At the U.S. Patent & Trademark Mount Vernon Swing Band; live museum admission. $2 for adults. www.theartleague.org or 703-683-1780. Office, 600 Dulaney St., Alexandria music conducted by Owen Hammett. Purchase tickets at alexandriava.gov/ (Madison Building). Tickets: $80 Cost is $4 at door. Open to the Shop or call 703-746-4994. Lane, Alexandria. Make simple toys historic-huntley. reserved table seating includes community. Call 703-765-4573. Portside History – Preserving Ice. to take home and play games like American Girl Talk. 1:30-3:30 p.m. appetizers, beer, wine. Sponsorships 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Old Town those the children who once lived at or 2:30-4:30 p.m. At Mount Vernon start at $500. No matter who or what SATURDAY/NOV. 17 Alexandria waterfront, 1 King St., Historic Huntley enjoyed. A special Estate, Alexandria. American Girl is in the headlines, The Capitol Steps Tour de Mount Vernon. 8:30 a.m. Alexandria. Free. Discover how children’s house tour and scavenger author Valerie Tripp brings Felicity to tackle both sides of the political Starting and ending at Fort Hunt Alexandrians preserved ice before the hunt are part of the fun. The program Mount Vernon. Listen to “Martha spectrum and all things equally Park in Mount Vernon with Mount invention of home refrigerators. Visit is designed for participants age 4 to Washington” and Valerie Tripp, foolish. A fundraiser for the United Vernon District Supervisor Dan www.PortsideInOldTown.com. adult. Cost is $7 per person. Call author of the first American Girl book Community Ministries. Visit Storck. This has been rescheduled. Make Old-Fashioned Toys. 1-2 p.m. 703-768-2525 or visit Felicity, as they share the story of www.ucmagency.org for tickets. Register today to ride or volunteer. At Historic Huntley, 6918 Harrison www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ their collaboration for the book. The www.lostdogandcatrescue.org Adopt/Donate/Volunteer www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 ❖ 19 News Democrats Sweep City Council From Page 1 local issues are “as important to me as the bigger federal issues,” she said she didn’t know much about local candidates. Democrat Nate Ho said the election for him was mostly about national issues, that he hasn’t paid much attention to local is- sues, and voted the ticket. Voters wanted to “send a message, feder- ally,” said Wilson, agreeing that many people were primarily interested in the fed- eral races. At the local level, “we’re going to have a great team,” which is “the most diverse council this city has ever seen,” in terms of race and gender, he said. “We’ve got some big work to do,” for example, se- curing the city’s economic future. “We’re going to need some new thinking.” Republican James Cottrell said the most ** = incumbent. Unofficial election results from Virginia Department of Elections important issues for him vis-à-vis the fed- (results.elections.virginia.gov). Official results will be available Saturday afternoon, Nov. 10. eral races were the economy and foreign that supporting partisan candidates at the sible with taxpayers’ money, saying that, for Board] candidates,” he said. policy. Inasmuch as the election was a ref- local level will affect the federal level. He retirees, it’s “tough to keep up with [local] Republican Terri Hauser thinks an over- erendum on Trump, he thinks Trump is usually votes Republican or Libertarian, but taxes as they are.” focus on national issues has “diluted” focus doing a “sensational” job. in the past voted for Silberberg and inde- Republican Michael Lane, a former Ar- on local issues and candidates. But “I pay attention to every level,” he pendents. lington County Board member, said he’s “A city that prides itself on diversity ought said. At the local level, he’s most concerned “I’m a deplorable” and “very much in the concerned that the Alexandria City Council’s to have diversity of opinion reflected on its about limiting development and controlling Trump camp,” said Laurie Kirby. At the na- “knee-jerk reaction to any issue is a gov- City Council,” she said. She thinks local elec- spending. He thinks the “short-term gain” tional level, she expressed most interest in ernment-sponsored spending program.” tions should occur in May, as in the past, for the city of more development will lead the economy and defense. At the local level, “I’m looking for accountability in schools and not alongside state and federal races to “long-term pain” in terms of increasing she’s concerned about “spending generally,” and concrete programs to improve in November. costs for services to more and more resi- and wants to “temper” expansion in order Alexandria’s public schools academic repu- Regarding partisan diversity on the City dents. to relieve strain on infrastructure. She tation. Council, “voters settled the issue,” said Wil- He thinks some voters wrongly believe thinks Republicans would be more respon- I wasn’t inspired by any of the [School son.

Novlie Evans Steady Stream of

talks with City Photos by Shirley Ruhe/Gazette Packet Council candi- Rain and Voters date Amy Jack- Natoma Jalloh and Rashidau son. Jackson Kanu from Sierra Leone with says, “It’s been mayoral candidate Justin Wilson busy at all of the outside Samuel W. Tucker El- polling places ementary School polling place. where I’ve been Kanu says, “I am voting because today. There has we need change. We are all one been a steady people, no matter what color. stream of rain My husband is back there in and voters. Sierra Leone. I have two kids That’s good for here. I’ve tried and tried to get the Democrats.” him here.”

Renee O’Brien, Maranda Boson, assis- precinct cap- tant chief elections tain of 308 just officer for the City of around the Alexandria, is sitting corner from at the Ballot Table. She Samuel Tucker, said she arrived at says she is 4:45 a.m. to setup. helping out at “The doors have to be this location for open at 6 a.m. There a while. “When was a line around the we vote we win. building waiting to These badges vote when we opened. say it all. … It The woman who was has been busy the first in line had all day.” probably been here A double line of 13 chairs stays filled with since 5 a.m.” voters at Samuel W. Tucker Elementary School. 20 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Letters

From Page 13 schools, to succeed later in life; systematically teach that content to all students; and assure that they learn it. In effect, achieve ex- cellence through insistent, uni- formly high expectations and true integration. Finally, given the vocal obses- sion with school-system “capacity” among ACPS actors — surely a prelude to another “fully fund our schools” campaign leading to even higher taxes — let us first fully audit our schools to determine their accountability and take time- proven measures to redress any and all shortcomings. Such should be the principal remit of the new School Board. Judy Navarro Alexandria Retain Name For Park To the Editor: For over 20 years, Pat Troy, and countless other Alexandria citi- zens, city councilmen, and may- ors supported recognizing city founding father Colonel John Fitzgerald. Since 2012, Fitzgerald Square Park was the approved name for the park located at the foot of King Street, and it should be retained. No citizens petitioned for a name change. Why recognize Colonel Fitzgerald and others who contrib- uted to the history of the water- front? Review the City’s own ex- tensive report, dated 2012, https://www.alexandriava.gov/ uploadedFiles/planning/info/Wa- terfront/ A6_History%20Appendix(1).pdf. A public survey and a public hear- ing were held on Fitzgerald Square Park in 2016. What is the reason behind the arbitrary name change? American Revolutionary War Veteran Col. John Fitzgerald saved Alexandria from being burned down by the British, was a mayor of Alexandria, started the City Council, founded the Alexandria bank and library, and filled in land to establish current Alexandria waterfront. Col. Fitzgerald is also a founding father of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, the first Catho- lic Church in Virginia, now the Basilica of St. Mary, as designated by the Vatican, with over 7,000 pa- rishioners. St. Mary’s was built with the assistance of Fitzgerald’s friend George Washington and protestant Col. Robert Hooe, Alexandria’s first mayor. Col. Fitzgerald was George Washington’s Aide-de-Camp and served with Col. Hooe. Fitzgerald See Letters, Page 22 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 ❖ 21 Sounds Not Letters So Silent From Page 21

By KENNETH B. LOURIE was at George Washington’s side when With apologies to Simon and Garfunkel: Washington took over troops at Boston in burping, hiccuping, coughing, “expectorating,” 1775. Col. Fitzgerald was a war hero at the ^OLLaPUNZULLaPUNZUPMÅPUNUVZLY\UUPUN Battles of Trenton and Monmouth, where nose bleeding, nose blowing, “gassing,” gur- he was wounded. gling and “nauseating.” After petitions and reports by the city’s If this were football, I’d likely receive a pen- alty for piling on: too much not of a good thing. Historical and Waterfront Commissions and For me, it’s just another day in cancer’s much public input, the city approved the side-effect paradise. For my wife, Dina, how- “Interim Fitzgerald Square Park’ as part of L]LYP[»ZTVYLKPMÄJ\S["JH\NO[PU[OLJYVZZÄYL the Alexandria Waterfront Plan, dated 2012. so to speak. Aside from how cancer makes you There was no indication in the waterfront look and feel, there is also an element of how it makes you sound. plan indicating “Interim” applied to the ac- 5V[[OH[0»TZLSMJVUZJPV\ZVYHU`[OPUN"0»T tual name “Fitzgerald Square.” What we did just more self-aware. But there’s only so much find is that the city and other groups re- one can do, or quite frankly, want to do to peatedly referred to Fitzgerald Square as manage/control one’s sights and sounds. the park name and that the term “interim” After all, side effects are sort of the cost of was used because the funding for a perma- doing business in the medical/pharmaceutical world. And though every patient doesn’t expe- nent park was a long way off. rience identical symptoms, we’re all warned In addition, the city conducted a public equally that there could be trouble in them survey on the Fitzgerald Square Park in “thar” pills. Part of that trouble is internal: what March 2016, indicating that the city was you feel, and part of that trouble is external: using Fitzgerald Square as an official name. what you see and hear. And depending upon what medication you’re receiving, you could The city stated in its 2016 announcement: be experiencing side effects that manifest more “The Waterfront Small Area Plan, approved like main effects. in June 2014, envisions a new public plaza Generally speaking, unless I was really at the foot of King Street called Fitzgerald uncomfortable and/or insistent when speaking Square.” to my oncologist, he has refrained from treating side effects – too much. His thinking has been Only after the name was stripped this past that too many pills treating too many side March, did City Spokesman Fifer, Council- effects makes Kenny an extraordinarily dull woman Pepper, Councilman Wilson and City and dependent boy, and likely makes matters Manager Jinks claim that the term worse. Granted, there have been exceptions. “InterimÓ applied to the name of the park. But prescribing an ever-increasing number and variety of pills seems akin to chasing one’s Mayor Silberberg was advised by the city own tail. It may be amusing to look at (if you’re spokesman only a few days prior to the an- a cat or dog owner), but it’s a hell of a price to nouncement of the Fitzgerald name change pay for a minimal amount of relief. You may not to King Street Park, recalling our colonial be any worse for the wear, but neither are you subjugation to British tyranny. Mayor any better off than when you started. Silberberg was shocked by the name change Obviously, in the cancer-treatment world, there’s going to be some discomfort, and I have and does support Fitzgerald Square. It was been prescribed some side-effect medication also a shock to the mortally ill Pat Troy and accordingly: for a skin rash, for constipation, to thousands of other Fitzgerald Square sup- boost my appetite, for pain and for neuropathy. porters who felt Alexandria City let them But overall, to ease my worried brow, we’ve down. This did not stop Del Pepper and tried to stay away from letting side effects affect my primary care. other politicians from riding the St. Patrick’s Unfortunately, the reality is, every med- Day parade hoping to garnish votes in the ication, every treatment, every procedure next election. produces side effects. Trying to keep your eye Over 1,500 signatures have been collected on the ball during multiple processes, can in support of Fitzgerald Square in addition become challenging. And though it may not be rocket science, it is medicine/science which for to the support of the Basilica of St. Mary a Humanities graduate like me is as unnatural and its 7,000-plus parishioners. as it can possibly be. Please vote in City Park Naming Survey All I understand is trying not to make mat- found at https://www.alexandriava.gov/ ters worse, but when you’ve been diagnosed news_display.aspx?id=106160 as “terminal,” which I was, things have already through Nov. 16. You do not have to be a become worse. Ergo, knowing how to manage your situation so as not to exaggerate the chal- city resident to take the survey. lenge you already face itself becomes a side Bernadette Troy effect for which there’s very little treatment. Kathleen Troy Molloy Knowing when to add or subtract medica- tions, knowing when to change one’s infusion medicine, knowing when to schedule infu- sion intervals and knowing when to schedule Bulletin Board diagnostic scans, are all wrenching emotional decisions which might have life-ending conse- quences so these decisions do carry the weight SATURDAY/NOV. 10 of the world. And though my father always told 17th Annual Veterans’ Day Ceremony. 11 me that I had broad shoulders (meaning I could a.m. at the Captain Rocky Versace Plaza and carry the weight), I have never been tested as I Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial, Mount Vernon have these last nearly 10 years. Recreation Center, 2701 Commonwealth Ave. Having survived for as long as I have, pre- The City of Alexandria and “Friends of Rocky sumably, I have made some correct decisions. Versace” will host the one-hour, indoor Nevertheless, I still feel like I’m one wrong ceremony will honor posthumous Medal of move from disaster. And it’s never more clear Honor recipient, Ranger Hall of Fame inductee, Distinguished Member of the Special Forces to me then when I’m listening to what I’m Regiment and Distinguished Member of The Old hearing. Guard Regiment, Captain Rocky Versace; the 66 other Alexandrians who died during the Vietnam War; and all veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for in attendance. Visit www.virginia.org/Listings/ The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. EventsAndExhibits/ VeteransDayCeremonyAlexandria. 22 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com SPECIAL SAVINGS FOR YOUR TOYOTA

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www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 ❖ 23 24 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ November 8-14, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com