Vol. XXI, No. 9 Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A Connection Newspaper March 4, 2010 Nonprofit Needs Unwanted Items Retail traffic is heavy at Goodwill, but donations fail to meet expectations.

By Michael Lee Pope chandise from other stores, al- The Gazette though the number of donated items has been increasing. During ince it opened in Novem- the first full month the store at ber, merchandise has 8228 Richmond Highway was Sbeen flying off the shelves open, it received about 500 items. at the new Goodwill store Then, in January, the donation in Mount Vernon. But donations center accepted about 1,000 items. have lagged behind, and now the Last month, the store received nonprofit is asking the community about 1,200 items. Porter says for their old clothes, used DVDs she’s glad to see the increase, but and extraneous furniture. the level of giving hasn’t been “Spring cleaning is coming,” said enough to sustain the retail side Aliya Porter, production manager of the operation yet. First-place winners presented by Alane Dent, president of Burke-Fairfax Chapter of at the Mount Vernon Goodwill. “We need at least twice that Jack and Jill of America, (from left to right): Kenya George, Isaiah Floyd, “And we would like people to con- amount,” said Porter. “I would say Mfonobong Emah, and Christalyn Solomon, and Dent. sider contributing items to our we would need at least 2,500 donation center this year.” items a month to meet expecta The sluggish donations have MVHS Wins Black History Forum forced the nonprofit to bring mer- See Nonprofit, Page 5 Sixteen students from four schools compete to win trophy, display prowess of African American history. County Budget Cuts

By Amber Healy winning team were Mfonobong Emah and Hit Mount Vernon The Gazette Christalyn Solomon. In total, 12 students from four schools — Lake By Julia O’Donoghue ❖ Shutting down the swimming ount Vernon High School took home Braddock Secondary, Mount Vernon High, Fairfax The Gazette pool in Martin Luther King Jr. Park. Mthe trophy for the 26th annual Black High and The Flint Hill School — competed in a Residents can typically use the History Month Forum, which may have new “Jeopardy!”-style question and answer game. airfax County Executive pool for free from the time school surprised the four students from that school more Each school had three contestants and an alter- F Anthony Griffin has tar- closes until August. It draws ap- than their 12 competitors. nate, and each group of four students, one from geted a few Mount Vernon- proximately 7,500 patrons in the “I thought we lost,” said Kenya George. “The each school, competed in a 25-question round in specific programs in his proposed summer. This would save $51,393. autobiography questions were really hard.” Olsson theater at Flint Hill School in Oakton. $100 million-plus worth of cuts to ❖ Elimination of the Fairfax “I really thought Lake Braddock was going to the 2011 county budget. County Police Department’s ma- win,” said Isaiah Floyd. Other members of the See Mount Vernon High, Page 4 Fairfax faces a $257 million rine patrol, which consists of two shortfall in its $3.2 billion general officers and one marine patrol fund for next year. The Fairfax boat. This unit most serves the County Board of Supervisors can Mount Vernon area of Fairfax amend Griffin’s budget proposal County and primarily patrols Costco Considers Multiplex Site before they pass the final county along the Potomac River. Last year, spending plan in late April. the marine patrol conducted eight airfax County Supervisors Jeff McKay (D-Lee) been his first choice for Richmond Highway. Some of the cuts that would par- rescues and towed seven citizen and Gerry Hyland (D-Mount Vernon) said the “It is another big box, warehouse retailer but it ticularly affect Mount Vernon in- F See Budget, Page 25 national discount food chain Costco Whole- would bring high-quality jobs to the corridor and clude: sale has expressed interest in moving onto the old Costco would tear down the building and put in

Multiplex Cinema site near the corner of Richmond something new,” he said.

Highway and Sherwood Hall Lane. According to McKay, the Multiplex site is the only 3/5/10

The expansive commercial property has been va- “blighted” property on the western side of the Rich- home in Requested material.

cant since the movie theater company shuttered all mond Highway. But the fact that the vacant building Time-sensitive of its operations in 2007. is at the corner of a busy intersection and has a large Postmaster:

If neighbors express support for the Costco bid, sign outside makes it stand out and may be deter- Attention

Permit #482 Permit

McKay said the supervisors would try to put the ring potential commercial interest in the area. VA Alexandria,

PAID project on a fast track for county approval, though Postage U.S.

another national bargain retail chain would not have See Costco, Page 3 STD PRSRT www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Resident Creates, Writes, and Acts in New TV Show

Q. Why is the setting for Local screenwriter’s pilot premieres the show Washington, D.C., Profile at American Film Institute. and not in the Bronx, New EDWARD ROBERT BACH York, or Lake Forest, Illi- Education: State University of New nois, or Orange County, York (SUNY), at Potsdam, and By Gerald A. Fill California? Oswego. Studied acting, dance, directing, scene design and graphic The Gazette Q. Is this TV series some- A. The producers and I hope that design. what autobiographical? we can present another side, a Parents: Robert P. Bach and Lonnie orrowed from storylines A. There is definitely some of me positive non-political side, of life Coy Current Job: Graphic design, about real life and not in the plot and character devel- in our Nation’s Capitol. A side of photographer, production of reality TV, Edward Rob- oped around Kevin. Viewers will life that we think has not been re- information materials for the U.S. B Federal Aviation Administration ert Bach’s “Hard To Be see themselves in all the charac- vealed before. Viewers locally will (FAA) as a contract employee for Me” is reminiscent of the comedy ters. Our intention is to touch on get to see themselves in positive BAE Systems, Inc. dramas of the past three decades. universal themes of life, love, suc- settings and situations which they Passion: Theater, art, dance, the The characters reveal their stories cess, disappointment, and the abil- have never seen before in a TV performing arts Most Influential: His parents about friendships, family, and life ity to overcome life’s foibles. series. We have and continue to Goals: To be successful in the in the modern world. plan on tapping into the acting performing arts Q. Is there any shows now talent in the region. Favorite Actor: Harrison Ford Favorite Actress: Meryl Streep Q. What is the TV show or in the recent past that The Washington metropolitan about? compare to “Hard to Be area has some wonderful neigh- and hopefully much longer. We A. Although I am the creator of Me”? borhoods, historic sites, art, the- still have a long way to go but I TV Preview: the show, I am actually the co- A. “Family Ties” is one show that ater, dance, outdoors, sports, and and the others of the cast and crew ‘Hard To Be Me writer with the very talented David is similar. But we are a significant high schools and colleges. Our are optimistic that we will be suc- When: Sunday, March 7, 5 p.m. Gannon. The story line revolves updating of that show. We cover show will open the door up about cessful. Where: American Film Institute, 8633 around the exploits of an art present day social technologies; that aspect of life in the D.C. area Colesville Road, Silver Spring, Md. school sophomore, Kevin the issues facing students, parents, for viewers nationwide. What others say about Cost: $10 http://Hardtobeme.com Hamilton, who is played by me. grandparents, and the community Edward Bach: Kevin prefers to express himself and institutions of today. We take Q. So what is the next step Evelyn Rice, the longtime artis- even prouder to call him my through his art, but is forced to the viewer behind the scenes to after Sunday nights’ Ameri- tic director of the Fauquier Com- friend.” face his fear of public speaking explore the vagaries of the fast- can Film Institute (AFI) munity Theater who directed Ed- Erik Cieslewicz, director of when he receives an assignment paced pressure-packed families of Preview? ward Bach in “Joseph and the “Hard To Be Me”: “Edward as a to post a weekly vlog for his Com- today. Our goal is for viewers to A. The next big step is to acquire Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” writer is not egotistical nor mar- munications 101 course. Through want to “hang out” with our char- a TV network sponsor who will get in which he played the Pharoah, ried to his work; as an actor he has this take off, we get to know Kevin, acters, to grow and learn with us on the air as a pilot TV series. said, “I think he is a terrific actor, good instincts; and as a producer his art school friends, his family, them, and to find themselves in- We are submitting our finished he takes direction very well, and he is committed to excellence and and a host of quirky characters. side these characters. At the same pilot to TV festivals nationwide as is able to do what you ask, yet still leads by example. … Edward has, “Hard to Be Me” focuses on the time we don’t take ourselves too part of our promotional strategy be able to make the part his own; with this production, brought back value of relationships and links seriously; thus, the characteriza- seeking sponsors. If the pilot is a he is a multitalented performer. … to TV the traditional family, and between people. It is a TV series tion of the show as a dramedy. success then we will be given a I consider myself lucky to have met found great realistic dynamics be- for the entire family. contract for one season or longer him and directed him, and am tween family members.” MVHS Wins Black History Forum

Photo by From Page 1 game show for 26 years, just as “Any of you want to take a guess?” The questions covered a variety many years as the local Jack and When he was answered with si-

of topics, from Eminent Leaders, Jill of America chapter has been lence, he said, “You’ll remember Julia O’Donoghue in which the answers were the hosting the tournament. this for the rest of your lives.” names of African American pio- “Sometimes the kids aren’t as Just before the timer buzzed on neers in the fields of athletics, sci- excited about Black History Month the question, Lake Braddock stu- ence, academics and politics, to as they could be and sometimes dent David Curry-Johnson raised music, sports, literature, the civil our history isn’t taught as much as a hand and asked, “What is MLK’s rights movement. The “In Our we’d like.” assassination?” Backyard” category that featured The students began studying for His answer was followed by re- /The Gazette significant events and landmarks the quiz tournament back in No- lieved applause — April 4, 1968 in Virginia and Washington, D.C. vember, Carla Mazique said, was the day Martin Luther King Jr. The annual quiz competition is memorizing facts and historic fig- was assassinated in Memphis, sponsored by the Burke-Fairfax ures in preparation for their big Tenn., by James Earl Ray. Chapter of Jack and Jill of day. At the end of the quiz, the stu- America, an organization started But in a moment, some of the dents were given a chance to re- Costco Wholesale is interested in the vacant property that in Pennsylvania by African Ameri- parents and teachers in the crowd deem themselves, in the form of a housed the old Multiplex Cinema on Richmond Highway. can mothers in 1938, a fun fact might rather to forget, the mod- surprise two-part question asked that was one of the many ques- erator unveiled one of the answers by Abraham Scott, whose wife, tions posed to the students. in the Civil Rights Movement cat- Janice, was killed in the Pentagon Costco at Multiplex Site? “We’re trying to get our young egory: “April 4, 1968.” on Sept. 11, 2001. He offered a people excited about our history The panel of four students $500 scholarship for the entire From Page 1 and take part in learning,” said looked puzzled. One student ap- team for the student who correctly pressed interest in developing the Carla Mazique, a Jack and Jill peared to be running over dates answered a two-part question property since the movie theatre Committee member. Her husband, and events in his head, moving his about Motown, the famous label “I want it gone. A boarded up closed three years ago. But the Arman Mazique, played modera- index finger around as if trying to that launched such artists as building is the last thing an in- owners were not interested in any tor for the quiz and asked the stu- put history in a chronological or- Smokey Robinson, The Miracles, vestor wants to see,” said offers until Costco approached dents to call him Alex Tre-Black, a der. The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, McKay. them recently. play off of Alex Trebek, the host Moderator Arman Mazique The supervisor said that half a — Julia O’Donoghue of the real “Jeopardy!” television paused for a moment and asked, See Mount Vernon, Page 4 dozen other entities have ex- www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 3 News Hyland Notes Changes in Mount Vernon

upervisor Gerry Hyland (D-Mount cated on the army base, will be a 1.2 mil- plete by this spring. northern stretch of Richmond Highway, is Vernon) provided a brief update lion square foot facility with six stories, 120 going to be torn down and replaced with a Sabout new construction projects, in-patient beds, 3,100 staff members and ❖ By August 2012, the Fairfax County new Fairfield Inn & Suites. development and businesses that 2,600 parking spaces once it is completed. Parkway should be completed, allowing have started up in the Mount Vernon area The $747 million facility is expected to draw drivers to travel all the way from Mount ❖ A new bridge will soon carry cars trav- during his town hall meeting Feb. 20. 500,000 visitor trips per year. Vernon to Reston without getting off the eling on Gunston Road over Richmond As part of the annual gathering, Hyland corridor. Highway. As part of this project, Gunston conducts a virtual bus tour of his district Road will be widened to four lanes. for those in attendance. The following is ❖ The National Museum of the United information Hyland shared on the tour: States Army is still coming to the corner of ❖ By Sept. 15 2011, Fort Belvoir will have the Fairfax County Parkway and John J. 3,500 additional workers as a result of the Kingman Road. The facility is expected to Base Realignment And Closure (BRAC) pro- bring 1 million visitors per year. cess.

❖ The Fairfax-Falls Church community services board has opened up a 16-bed treatment facility for people with mental health and substance abuse disorders on the site of the old police barracks.

❖ Belle View and New Alexandria resi- dents could be getting a flood wall along their stretch of George Washington Parkway as well as some new levees in order to guard ❖ Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, 2501 against future disasters Parker’s Lane, has added a 5,000 square foot addition to its radiology department for ❖ Near the Huntington Metro station, a approximately $14 million. Hyland said, for developer has restarted work on 85 new ❖ Kings Crossing, which might be better the first time in several years, this branch townhouses that should be completed by known as the Chuck-E-Cheese shopping of the hospital is “in the black,” and that this spring. center on Richmond Highway, will be home the amount of time a patient has to spend to a new 80,000 square-foot Wal-Mart. The in the hospital’s emergency room has been owner is also looking to lease 10,000 square cut in half. feet of redeveloped space, possibly to a fit- ness center. ❖ The Smitty’s Building Supply site will ❖ Martha Washington Library, 6328 Rich- soon by home to a Super H Mart, an Asian mond Highway, is being renovated and will ❖ The Fairview Motel, also along the grocery story. included additional 8,000 square feet of space when it is completed this coming sum- ❖ The Woodlawn McDonald’s is going mer. to be renovated to accommodate a new con- cept and design for the fast food chain. The ❖ Mulligan Road will provide a four-lane McDonald’s will serve high-end coffee connection from Richmond Highway to drinks and include lounge chairs and other Telegraph Road. The section from Telegraph places for people to relax and socialize. Road to Pole Road will be completed in late 2010 and a second section from Pole Road ❖ Spring Hill Suites and Holiday Inn Ex- ❖ Comfort Inn is opening a new 60-room to Richmond Highway should be finished press, located between the Ford car dealer- hotel at the site of the $29.99 Shoe Ware- in 2012. ship and Virginia Lodge on Richmond High- house way, burned down in 2008 and is now re- ❖ Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, lo- built. The project is expected to be com- — Julia O’Donoghue Mount Vernon High School Wins Black History Forum

From Page 3 Porter said she enjoyed the afternoon and and used in songs written by African Ameri- “learned so much” from her fellow students. “We’re trying to get our can artists and songwriters. Stevie Wonder and the Jackson 5. “I’ve never seen anything like this before,” “The blue note, we brought that with us Jason Dodge, a representative of the she said. “It was really interesting to me.” young people excited on the boats,” he said. “It is praise. When Fairfax High School team, correctly an- Those in the audience were also treated we hear the blue note, it is in the wail of swered that Motown was founded in De- to a presentation by Dr. Greg E. Carr, asso- about our history and every song that still moves us.” troit, but could not name the founder, Barry ciate professor of Africana Studies and chair Carr spoke of hearing the blue note in Gordy Jr. Scott overlooked the second half of the Department of Afro-American stud- take part in learning.” songs by Aretha Franklin and Mary J. Blige, of the question and promised to award four ies at Howard University. — Carla Mazique but had to laugh when speaking of the leg- $500 scholarships to Dodge and his team- While he was only supposed to speak for endary music of Marvin Gaye. mates, Vivian Bornell, Lindsay Hopkins and 10 minutes, he easily went twice as long, traveling roads that haven’t been traveled “Oh Marvin,” he laughed. “All his songs Monique Hopkins. emphasizing how the leaders the students before. Harriet Tubman, when she was were blue notes,” he said, proceeding to During the afternoon-long event, the win- have learned about, from Mohandas Ghandi walking the tobacco fields her parents and pick out lines from songs like “Let’s Get It ner and runner-up of Jack and Jill’s local to Barack Obama, were not trailblazers as grandparents had worked, she knew that On” and “What’s Going On.” oratorical contest, Lauren Porter and Joshua much as the students may believe. she was somewhat better than what had The blue note, which sounds like a minor Mann, presented their winning speeches, “What you are doing is reconnecting to come before, but she knew something bet- key when sung or played, “that’s the note which Porter said is a kind of preparation something,” he said to the students, many ter was on the way.” the mothers and fathers taught us, that’s for the Teen Conference next month. of whom are seniors preparing to leave their He also spoke about “the blue note,” a when the ancestors come up into our brains While she did not compete in the quiz, homes and head off to college. “There is no deep, almost mournful tone widely heard and speak through us,” he said. 4 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Rex Reiley Nonprofit Needs Unwanted Items RE/MAX Allegiance

Photo Courtesy of Goodwill of Gr From Page 1 703-768-7730 [email protected] tions.” Alex/Riverside Gardens $584,900 GOODWILL OF GREATER 1706 Old Stage Road OPEN Washington operates nine stores Lovely, updated 4 BR, 2.5 BA Split in SUN. 1-4 popular Riverside Gardens. Remodeled in the region, offering job train- kitchen, baths and freshly painted inte- ing and employment to those in rior. Windows, siding, gutter & downs- pouts all replaced. Main level hdwd floors need. Of the nine stores in the re- refinished plus hdwds under upper level carpeting. Walking distance to Stratford Elementary and Sandburg Intermediate, 10 gion operated by the nonprofit minutes to Ft. Belvoir (S) and Alexandria (N). 20 minutes to National Airport & 30 to organization, the Mount Vernon Pentagon/D.C. Immaculate & available for quick occupancy. location has become the second

eater Washington Alex./Mount Vernon $459,900 most profitable. Brendan Hurley, 4302 Granada Street who is the vice president of mar- Large, Lovely 4 BR, 3 BA Split keting and communications, says w/1-Car Garage on a .35 Acre the revenue at the store has greatly Lot. Beautiful hardwood floors on main level, freshly painted inte- exceeded expectations. rior. French doors off Dining rm “The people who donate to U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11) speaks during a Decem- to a Sun rm with skylight, hot tub Goodwill are not necessarily the ber grand opening event. & wrap-around deck. Beautifully landscaped yard w/electric pow- same people who shop here,” said ered shed. 5 minutes to Ft. Belvoir, 15 minutes to Huntington Metro & Old Town, 35 minutes to Pentagon/D.C. Hurley. “So, at this point, the chal- taken for the Goodwill donation with everything from wedding Alex./Mount Vernon $859,000 lenge that we are faced with is center several times. dresses and antique furniture to 3809 Nalls Road getting people to donate.” “We hire anyone who has a bar- old records and VHS tapes. Super- Spectacular 5 BR, 4.5 BA Colonial w/over Hurley says it’s a way of getting rier to employment, and we offer visor Dondi Randolph says many 5,200 SF Finished Living Space on a Lovely, Fenced, .34 Acre Lot. Fully Loaded rid of unwanted items while help- job training to people who are of the items are donated when w/options: Vaulted Ceiling in Fam. & Sun Rms ing the community. without work in this difficult people upgrade electronics, so the – Trey Ceiling in Din Rm & MBR – Separate Front & Rear Staircases – DBL Pane Energy Part of that challenge is being economy,” he said. “And it’s an in- store is well stocked with stereo Efficient Windows w/Plantation Shutters thru new to Richmond Highway, lo- expensive way for consumers to systems and televisions. out – Beautiful Hdwd Floors on MN Level – Recessed Lighting – Six Panel Doors – Fios & cated in a storefront formerly oc- get more out of their dollar.” “I would say that DVDs are our Smart Wired for Surround Sound – Brinks Security Sys – Fully Finished Lower Level w/In- cupied by Barnes C L Furniture most popular item,” siad Dondi. Law Suite & Walkout. 5 minutes to Ft. Belvoir. This Home is a Great Buy! Company. Another part of the chal- STROLLING THROUGH the “As soon as we put them on the For more information: lenge is a nearby construction site, aisles of the Mount Vernon Good- shelf, there’re on the way out the www.RexReiley.com Each Office Independently Owned and Operated where a dumpster has been mis- will, customers are confronted door.”

If you do not get The CLOTHES Mount Vernon Jewelry SHOES BOOKS Gazette HOUSE WARES TOYS delivered to your home… FIRST SELECT SECONDS THRIFT SHOP CLASS MAILED WINTER SALE SUBSCRIP- 1/2 PRICE: March 5-19 TIONS DOLLAR DAYS: March 20-24 are now avail- able for the ALL CLOTHING and SHOES $1 EACH first time with CLOSED: March 25 and 26 timely postal carrier deliv- REOPEN March 27 ery: $30 for six months. WITH SPRING AND SUMMER Help us meet MERCHANDISE the costs of pro- viding first- WOODLAWN SHOPPING CENTER rate community journalism on 8736 RICHMOND HIGHWAY newsprint to your house- 703.780.4603 hold. Call 703-778- HOURS: 9426 (or -9427) MON-FRI 10-4 • SAT 10-2 or e-mail circulation@ connectionnews INOVA MOUNT VERNON HOSPITAL papers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 5 People

This year Hollin Meadows District Elementary School had a record Awards number of 279 students that participated in the national PTA Reflections Program. Hollin Meadows has five students that have achieved awards at the District Level for the Reflections PTA program. Students photo- graphed with Principal Jon Gates (back row) are: (left to right) Martin Enyinnaya, Award of Merit, Literature; Katie Jo Moery, Award of Merit, Litera- ture; Anna Pekiunas, Award of Merit, Literature, Immediate; Kiki McDonnell, Award of Out- standing, Dance; and Sebastian Altmann, Award of Excellence, Visual Arts. Courtesy of Hollin Meadows ES Procurement Forum More than 130 small businesses par- ticipated Feb. 2 in the 5th Annual Fort Belvoir Procurement Forum, an educa- tional networking event for small businesses within the government contracting industry. Tracey Pinson (left), director, Office of the Secretary of the Army, Office of Small Business Programs offered the luncheon key- note on opportunities for small busi- nesses to do business with the Army. Event chair Linda Drake (right) is business development manager, Net- work Intelligence Division, Applied Signal Technology, Inc. The Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce’s GovCon Council presented the event.

Inova Mount Vernon Hospital celebrated National Wear Red Day in Wear Red Day support of Women’s Heart Disease and Stroke Awareness and Prevention on Feb. 5. Stroke is the No. 3 cause of death in the United States. Wearing red dress pins are Kimberly Krakowski, RN; Refugio Castro, John Mornan, Diane Kenney, Casey King, Stephanie Johnson, Department of Radiology and Stroke Champions.

6 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com People Mount Vernon Paint Company Two Collect Shoes for Students in Haiti (703) 768-1975 By Jeffrey Aaron age. There’s no trash disposal, so The Gazette we burn it in the incinerator. We paint, we weed, we catalog books eturning from a board- in the library — there’s no com- ing school last Novem- puter for that. Sarah taught En- Rber where they had glish; I taught religion,” Gillespie just spent a week help- said. ing the disadvantaged, Carrie Since the earthquake, students Gillespie and Sarah Rupp wanted at Bishop Ireton have stepped up to continue their aid from the its appeal for money to donate to states. So the two Bishop Ireton the school by collecting at two of High School students did what its basketball games and donating most other students their age do: all proceeds from a student-per- They turned to Facebook. formed play. Gillespie and Rupp The 16- and 17-year-old respec- pushed a mobile cart around the tively developed a Web page ask- gym asking for donations of shoes ing for donations of shoes, any during the games. size, any condition, so that they Before the Feb. 27 annual “Win- could send them to the neighbor- ter Ball,” students also asked their hood children who have lunch, peers to save and donate the play, and are tutored at Louverture Carrie Gillespie and Sarah Rupp collected 500 pairs of money they would have spent in Cleary School, 10 miles north of shoes to send to the neighborhood children who attend preparation and celebration. $4.00 OFF Port-au-Prince in Croix-des-Bou- Louverture Cleary School in Croix-des-Bouquets, Haiti. “Wear last year’s dress or your quets. sister’s to save money. Avoid Per gallon of any The Facebook page can be found The 350 students who attend 4,565 supporters. Starbucks,” Loffredo said. Regal Product by searching “Helping Haiti.” Louverture Cleary Monday “We weren’t prepared to get that So far, $8,000 has been raised Must be presented at time of purchase. You’ll also find 452 results from through Friday dress in uniform, many,” Rupp said. They have now for the relief effort, she said. that search, but the duo’s page is but the neighborhood children collected 500 pairs of shoes, which Gillespie hopes it will reach FREE the one with 4,565 members, who are invited for afternoon are stashed in green garbage bags $10,000. Drop Cloth and more than any other of its likeness classes come as they are: most piled high in Rupp’s Alexandria liv- “You can’t ignore what hap- on the site. It also comes with a oftentimes shoeless and wearing ing room. “It’s smells like a gym.” pened,” Gillespie said. “After meet- Sanding Sponge quote from Dr. Seuss: “Unless “ratty clothes.” “One girl came in The girls needed helped bun- ing the students and seeing their 6229 Richmond Hwy someone like you cares a whole a Pocahontas costume because dling pairs together. So Rupp’s great attitude, they’re hopeful for Must be presented at time of purchase. awful lot, nothing is going to get that’s all she had,” said Gillespie, mother, Mary, threw a pizza party the future and we want to help.” better. It’s not.” who is the daughter of Ed one weekend night where 10 to 15 Gillespie, the former Republican of her daughter’s friends gathered National Committee chairman. to eat and tape pairs together so Shoes were a practical request, they wouldn’t get lost in shipping. Rupp said, easy to pick up, easy to Since their donations have esca- ship, and needed desperately by lated, they have now partnered these children who live in neigh- with “Shoes 2 Share,” a Delaware- borhoods that are less than sani- based organization that collects tary. and donates shoes internationally “The kids play on gravel in bare for those in need. feet. You don’t want to cut your foot on glass in Haiti, it’s hard to BISHOP IRETON has been affili- get a doctor,” Gillespie said. ated with Louverture Clearly for the last seven years, sending five WHEN THE PAIR launched their to 10 students to volunteer for a Carrie Gillespie sits with a Web page, supporters dribbled in, week, said Linda Loffredo, Bishop child from the neighbor- between 160-200, but within days Ireton’s communications director. hood of Louverture Cleary of last month’s 7.0-magnitude “We work in classrooms and per- School, 10 miles north of earthquake, their numbers sky- form physical labor,” Rupp said. Port-au-Prince, Haiti. rocketed. At last count, they had “It’s actually a privilege to man-

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 7 Opinion

www.MountVernonGazette.com

Newspaper of Mount Vernon An independent, locally owned weekly Increasing Burden, But No Tools newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. 1606 King Street back less than 20 cents on the dollar it sends Fairfax’s real estate property tax rate would Alexandria, Virginia 22314 State will cut hundreds to Richmond. No “piggyback” income tax al- increase from $1.04 to $1.09, though the drop lowed. in home values would mean that Fairfax resi- NEWS DEPARTMENT: of millions in To discuss ideas and concerns, The authority for local elected officials to dents would pay approximately $48.55 less on Call: 703--778-9410 consider a variety of broad based sources of their property tax bill than they did last year. e-mail: expenditures that [email protected] revenue to fund schools and other services? Home values in Fairfax declined between 3 No. percent and nearly 8 percent, depending on Steven Mauren localities will have to Editor, 703-778-9415 And let’s be clear, voters could evict repre- location (see chart at http:// [email protected] pay for; but how? sentatives who overstepped tolerances. connectionnewspapers.com/ Michael Lee Pope So now as the state budgets is shaping up, photoview.asp?id=218615). But consider the Reporter, 703-778-9437 or shaping down would be more accurate, drop in value since the top of the market. In [email protected] n Virginia, localities like Fairfax County, without knowing the exact details or numbers, McLean, the jurisdiction that held up the best, Steve Hibbard Arlington or the City of Alexandria, have it’s clear that hundreds of millions of dollars assessments are down 12.5 percent from the Associate Editor, 703-778-9412 [email protected] only the exact powers that the Virginia in non-optional social services and education top a few years ago. In Lorton, assessments I Julia O’Donoghue General Assembly has bestowed upon expenses (K-12 and higher education) will shift are down 28.7 percent from the top of the Education & Politics, 703-778-9436 them. to localities. market. [email protected] The right to extend protection from discrimi- Localities are already grappling with de- So while in Richmond, the General Assem- Ken Moore nation to particular groups? No. creases in revenue because of the decline in bly slashes and burns its way to a budget with Courts & Projects, 703-917-6417 The right to decide when school will open in real estate values. And taxing real estate, com- no revenue increases, here where the rubber [email protected] the Fall? No. mercial and residential, makes up the vast meets the road, there are few options, because Jon Roetman The authority to tax income? No, only the majority of most localities’ revenue base. the General Assembly won’t allow them. Sports Editor, 703-224-3015 [email protected] state can tax Northern Virginia residents’ in- Arlington has proposed increasing the prop- They’re passing the bill, but refusing to allow come, and then the state spends that income erty tax rate by more than 11 percent, or 9 any reasonable method of making up the dif- ADVERTISING: everywhere but here. Northern Virginia gets cents. ference. To place an advertisement, call the ad department between 9 a.m. and Letters to the Editor 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. Display ads 703-778-9410 Classified ads 703-778-9411 Conflicts Task Force member who is an immediate past and Richmond Highway. During the course of Employment ads 703-778-9413 co-chair of the MVCCA (and was involved with the discussion, another Task Force member Julie Ferrill the conception of the MVCCA Nominations) became deeply involved in the discussion. This Display Advertising, 703-778-9446 Of Interest [email protected] asked to be recognized and she spoke for sev- Task Force member wears an astounding six To the Editor: eral minutes concerning the history of how the separate hats since he is: (1) another immedi- Ginger Krup Fellow citizens, your Comprehensive Plan Display Advertising, 703-778-9447 nomination came to be made and why it should ate past co-chair of the MVCCA, (2) the [email protected] may be amended this year, based upon nomi- be approved. This was clearly “testimony,” not MVCCA’s current Planning and Zoning Com- nations now being considered by your Area Andrea Smith within the proper role of a Task Force mem- mittee Chairman, (3) the current President of Classified Advertising, 703-778-9411 Plans Review (APR) Task Force. I attended their ber, yet no one on the Task Force raised any a community association immediately adjacent [email protected] Feb. 23 meeting and was disappointed at the objection to a Task Force member first testify- the location of nomination 26MV, (4) a resi- Barbara Parkinson actions of certain Task Force members as well ing as a witness in favor of a nomination she dent of Fairview Drive living 5 houses from the Employment Advertising as by the attendance of fewer than 10 inter- 703-778-9413 had a hand in preparing, and then voting on nominated property, (5) a member of the Task [email protected] ested citizens. the nomination as a Task Force member. She Force, and (6) the Task Force’s vote counter. Nomination No. 24MV, from the Mount should have recused herself. This Task Force member asked to be recognized Publisher Jerry Vernon Vernon Council (MVCCA), concerns the Penn Subsequently, the Task Force took up a nomi- and then spoke at length, as if he was a wit- Daw Shopping Center. Before the MVCCA’s rep- nation identified as 26MV, a proposed 5 acre ness, about his community association’s sup- Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm resentative commenced his presentation, a development at the corner of Fairview Drive port of the nomination and how they expect to be directly involved with the developer in Editor in Chief Steven Mauren determining the parameters of the develop- Photography: ment. The Task Force co-chairs took no action Louise Krafft, Robbie Hammer Art/Design: to require this Task Force member to recuse Geovani Flores, Laurence Foong, himself, based upon his multiple conflicts of John Heinly, Wayne Shipp, John Smith interest and testimony described above. When Production Manager: the vote was taken on the nomination, he voted Jean Card and then counted the vote for the co-chairs. Editor Emeritus: He should have recused himself. Mary Anne Weber I testified concerning the MVCCA’s Nomina- CIRCULATION: 703-778-9427 tion 25MV, suggesting reducing the Floor Area Circulation Manager: Ratio (FAR) so the threshold for requiring a Ann Oliver traffic study would not be exceeded. After my CONNECTION NEWSPAPERS, testimony, the Task Force member first men- L.L.C. /Gazette tioned above (24MV) asked to be recognized Peter Labovitz President/CEO and then she explained to the Task Force that they need not worry about the traffic study is- Mary Kimm Publisher/Chief Operating Officer sue because the Virginia Legislature was work- 703-778-9433 ing on a fix that would absolve the MVCCA of [email protected]

Louise Krafft the obligation to conduct and pay for the traf- Jerry Vernon fic study. I knew this was inaccurate since the Publisher/Executive Vice President [email protected] Bill in question had passed the Virginia Senate Photo by Photo with that provision stricken. The MVCCA will Wesley DeBrosse Controller U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan is intro- have to conduct and pay for any traffic studies At Riverside duced to Riverside Elementary Student Government required for its nominations. The Bill was sub- Debbie Funk National Sales, 703-778-9444 President Hannah Lombardo last month. He participated in a roundtable sequently approved by the House of Delegates [email protected] discussion about the Recovery Act a year later. See Letters, Page 11 A Connection Newspaper

8 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 9 Alexandria/Old Town 121 N. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 ® 703-549-8700 ,Realtors www.weichert.com THINKING OF A REAL ESTATE CAREER? Call Kim Farina at the Alexandria/Old Town Office. Alexandria $1,298,000 Large landscaped UPDATED! lot with view. Updated kitchen & baths, 4 bedrooms, 2-car garage & 2 fireplaces. Alexandria $499,900 Alex./Rosemont 1808 Hunting You will love this bright, spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bath home Update Craftsman-style home w/3 bedrooms, 1 bath, garage & huge Cove Place w/garage & huge fenced yard. Gleaming hardwood, freshly painted, yard. Unfinished LL, walk-up attic & 7,250 SF lot offering expansion Diann 2 fireplaces & double deck. See Virtual Tour @ www.cindyandleslie opportunities. Blocks to Metro, shops & restaurants in Old Town & Hicks Weichert.com 3113 Madison Hill Court Del Ray. 22 West Braddock Road 703-628-2440 Cindy Baggett 703-593-1418•Leslie Rodriquez 703-400-3010 Christine Garner 703-587-4855

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10 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Letters House and Senate Pass Different Budget Bills

By Toddy Puller This year all of these areas are Arts Funding: The House budget would by the Department of Corrections will be State Senator (D-36) being cut some because of the eliminate 50 percent of the Virginia Com- closed. Alternatives to incarceration includ- drop in state revenues. mission for the Arts funding $2.23 million ing electronic monitoring, early release pro- he House budget bill The difficulty now will be the first year and 100 percent of the fund- visions and geriatric parole release are en- passed 61-38 on a party working out a compromise ing $4.46 million in the second year. The couraged. T line vote, the Republi- between the two budget bills. Senate budget retains $4.46 million in the State Parks: No state parks were closed cans for it and the Demo- Not one of the House confer- arts funding for each year. in either budget. crats opposed. The Senate budget was ees is from Northern Virginia. VRS: Both chambers agree to lower state Economic Development: 14 separate bills passed 30-10 with bipartisan support. Only one is a Democrat. Four contributions to the Virginia Retirement were passed by the Senate to provide “a Eight Republicans and all 22 Demo- Democrats and two Republi- System (VRS), the public employment pen- variety of economic development and job crats voted for it. Included in both budgets cans are among the Senate conferees. For- sion fund, to save about $508 million. The creation measures ranging from sales tax is $1.9 billion “to continue aid to local gov- tunately four of the Senate conferees are Senate bill also includes a three-day fur- exemptions and green jobs tax credits to ernments for the Car Tax Relief Program” from Northern Virginia. lough for state employees which is less than major business incentives and mega-project to help fund local services. Education K-12: I, along with other North- that proposed by the Governor. site grants.” The Senate also agreed to open Both the House and Senate budgets are ern Virginia legislators offered a budget Health and Human Resources: The bud- some new ABC stores and extend Sunday very austere to close a budget shortfall of amendment to unfreeze the get would free up $86 million from en- hours with an opt-out provision for locali- about $4 billion. The Senate budget in- rebenchmarking of the Local Composite hanced federal Medicaid funding related to ties. cludes a number of fee increases to soften Index (LCI). This brings a great deal of fund- the Medicare Part D “clawback” payment For more information about the budget the blow on education, ing back to Northern Virginia schools. It is that will eliminate additional provider rate bills go to: http://legis.state.va.us and click Richmond health care and public one of the first times, due to falling home reductions in FY 2011. Enrollment is not on budget. Report safety. The House has re- values, Northern Virginia would receive an frozen for low-income children and preg- The General Assembly is scheduled to end fused thus far to accept any increase in the state LCI. All other locali- nant women in FAMIS and does not elimi- on Saturday, March 13. It is hoped that these higher fees, considering ties were “held harmless” in their LCI fund- nate funding for consumer-directed waiver two differing budgets can be reconciled and them as “taxes.” It is hoped that some move- ing. Fortunately, General Fund reductions services and an additional 236 mental passed by that time. These are difficult eco- ment may come in that Governor Bob to K-12 education are minimized. health treatment beds. There is hope that nomic times for our Commonwealth. But McDonnell has indicated he might accept Higher Education: The Senate proposes Congress will pass an additional six months in working together, we are trying to con- “higher fees that have a direct link to the no additional reductions over the intro- of enhanced federal Medicaid funding to tinue to protect and improve the lives of all services they provide.” This could “offer duced budget to Virginia’s public colleges provide more help. The Senate budget re- Virginians. some cover to the House Republicans” in and universities. The Tuition Assistance stores $1.9 million for free health clinics and Please continue to let me hear from you the possibility of accepting some new fees. Grant (TAG) program funding was cut by community health centers and preserves on issues of concern: Sen. Toddy Puller, In the past few years, Virginia has almost $10 million but not eliminated. TAG dental services through local health depart- P.O. Box 396, Richmond, VA 23218. trimmed its budget by $7 billion. Previously, helps many Virginia students with tuition ments. Phone: 804/698-7536. Email: the necessary services of education, health assistance to attend in-state private colleges Public Safety: One or more additional [email protected]. Website: care and public safety have been spared. and universities. state correctional facilities to be determined www.toddy.org. Letters to the Editor

From Page 8 I respect the co-chairs of the Task Force. While Mt. Vernon Estate does get many There are a few specific points of concern They must pull the reins in and insist that things right (i.e., hiring sensitive architects that many of us in the neighborhood have in the same form and awaits the Task Force members avoid even an appear- and landscape architects), there does seem about this proposed project: Governor’s signature. ance of a conflict by recusing themselves to be a gap with regard to neighborhood An 18th century view: The uncluttered, I asked to be recognized to correct the from Task Force deliberations where appro- communication/outreach/dialogue that natural drive along the GW Parkway to the record. The co-chairs recognized me, but priate. This will ensure the Task Force rep- could and should be improved. A clear and Estate provides an inviting, delightful and another MVCCA-affiliated Task Force mem- resents the 125,000-plus citizens of the recent example is the proposed 40,000-plus unconscious stepping back into time. Along ber, raised a point of order that I should Mount Vernon District and not the partisan sq ft. library/conference/lodging facility in 235N and S, this transitional psychological not be permitted to speak because I am not objectives of some individual members. To the woods on 235 N/S - which many of us preparation is already more truncated, but a member of the Task Force, even though my fellow citizens: if you refrain from at- only learned about through a recent Wash- it does exist as things currently stand. We the public hearing had not closed. His ob- tending Task Force meetings and making ington Post article and some Gazette cov- worry that no matter how architecturally jection was overruled and I provided the your views known, you will have little jus- erage. and landscape-sensitive this proposed li- Task Force the factual legislative status, tification to complain about the votes the Though no one could possibly object to brary structure is, there’s really no way to correcting the misinformation. Subse- Task Force takes in your name. It’s your the pursuit of further scholarship on George truly shroud a 40,000-plus sq.ft. facility - quently, nomination 25MV was tabled for Comprehensive Plan. Washington, it does concern many of us in with all its accompanying parking, an out- further consideration at a later meeting of this neighborhood that we have essentially lying residential structure, curb-cuts, elec- the Task Force. H. Jay Spiegel “been the last to know” about this proposed trical/sewer lines, and associated vehicu- The blame for the inappropriate behav- Mount Vernon research campus in our neighborhood. Up lar traffic. As a point of comparison, George ior of these MVCCA-affiliated Task Force until March 1, when Mt. Vernon Estate Di- Washington’s house itself is only 8,000 sq.ft. members properly rests with the person rector Jim Rees invited Wessynton subdivi- Even with stacking the building to “limit” who appointed them to the Task Force, Need To Improve sion residents to attend a not widely adver- the actual footprint to 20,000 sq.ft., this is namely, Supervisor Hyland. Their multiple Communication tised, essentially semi-private briefing on still a sizeable structure. It is reassuring to hats and personal agendas are well known the Estate’s rapidly forward moving plans hear that Mt. Vernon proposes to make ev- to the supervisor, yet he appointed them To the Editor: for the Library’s construction, few of us had ery effort to screen off the buildings and anyway. I pointed out the conflict of inter- I am writing as a 15-year resident on the any notion of how far along this project had the 20-acre proposed construction site by est issue in my letter to the editor of Feb. 4. Mt. Vernon Highway corridor, the histori- progressed. There had been little to no prior planting 800 trees, with many evergreens The Task Force does not belong to the cal land route to the estate of Mt. Vernon. opportunities for community members to along 235N. Those plantings will also need MVCCA nor does it even belong to Supervi- One of the reasons we and many of our provide input; this is especially true for to screen the chain-link fence the estate has sor Hyland, although he appointed it. The neighbors around here moved specifically those of us who do not live in Wessynton proposed to surround this gated-20 acre- Task Force belongs to the people of the to this area is the proximity to the natural, itself but nonetheless live on the Mt. Vernon complex. Mount Vernon District. Task Force members wooded lands around George Washington’s Highway corridor. While the Ladies of Mt. He wasn’t King George: As we came to must bear in mind that they represent the estate. We have also enjoyed the associa- Vernon certainly have the right to do with fully understand at the March 1 meeting, citizens of the Mount Vernon District and tion with and proximity to the Mt. Vernon the Estate’s land as they see fit, there is this large library complex is not designed are not supposed to be serving to promote Estate, which has clearly done a lot of good something vaguely tyrannical and rather for the “average George” hobby historian, their own personal agendas or the agendas for this community with all its many inter- unneighborly about presenting what but rather for “resident scholars” as well as of organizations to which they belong or esting historical, cultural and botanical of- amounts to a “fait accompli” to those of us with which they are active. ferings. who live in ‘George’s backyard.” See Letters, Page 12 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 11 Letters

From Page 11 Estate, perhaps behind the walls along Rte 235S (where there is currently overflow to host conferences for academic, corpo- parking) or perhaps near the river, out of rate and political clients. This seems some- the sight-line of the Estate, on the eastern what contrary to the spirit of a man who end of the Mt. Vernon property. Either of himself did not have the benefit of an elite these would provide secluded, contained higher education (he had about 7-8 years settings for scholars, with easy access to of formal schooling). The sheer scale and points within the estate. By siting such a scope, not to mention exclusivity of this facility away from the main focus of the vis- proposed facility, seems contrary to the rela- iting public - and by taking it out of such a tively humble nature and origins of Mr. public setting as the 235 N/S triangle - the Washington himself. It also seems a bit con- Estate might be sending out a more palat- trary to the alleged mission of the Estate able, less irritating message about its “pri- “to make George Washington accessible to vate” library. the 300 million people who will never come Precedent for Commercial Activity/Traf- to Mt. Vernon.” I suppose they will all have fic: Many of us local residents also wonder virtual access to the library, but physically “What are our assurances that this proposed the gates and doors will locked to the gen- facility will remain low-key and contained?” eral visiting public. There will be no demo- Conference facilities and lodgings are of- cratic strolls through the fine wood galler- ten full-fledged commercial operations ne- ies and bluestone floors of this $80 million cessitating an influx of commercial and pri- Abigail Konyndyk, a parent trainer at (including endowment) library facility. vate vehicles, additional maintenance staff, Speaking at Kiwanis First Home Care, spoke to the Mount Sadly, this fenced-off enclave on 235N/S and all-night lighting. Many at the March 1 Vernon Kiwanis Club at the Mount Vernon Country Club on Feb. 3. will exude exclusivity rather than the demo- meeting expressed concern about our lack She explained the benefits and responsibilities of foster parenting. cratic spirit for which Washington himself of information about Mt. Vernon’s “master With her is MVKC President Bruce Malkin. On April 7, the club will is heralded. plan.” Aside from some general and vague host Laurie Tracy, retired U. S. State Department Foreign Service Scale/Security: Presumably such a presi- assurances that there are no other big Officer, who is an expert on the Middle East, especially Iran and dential library will contain some rare and projects down the pipeline, there were no Iraq. To learn more about the club, visit important artifacts, though it’s hard to imag- agreements to share any master plans or www.mtvernonvakiwanis.org. ine there would be enough to fill 40,000 make any commitments to the neighbor- sq.ft. of space. Given the nature of what this hood that there would be no further activ- library would contain and its proposed lim- ity for the balance of the 55-acre parcel of no one in the county would do anything teams on a weekly basis to clean up the ited accessibility, many of us residents at- land on which the proposed library is to be about the horrendous amount of garbage mess. This has benefited all of us, and we tending the meeting on March 1 wondered sited. being dumped by passing vehicles on Rte appreciate it very much. The Estate itself why it wouldn’t make more sense to site We know Mt. Vernon Estate would like to 235N, it was Dean Norton at Mt. Vernon also has a Neighborhood Friends of Mt. this library within the existing walls of the be a good neighbor. In the recent past, when who personally committed to sending in See Letters, Page 22

12 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 13 Alexandria Old Town Historic District Office 400 King Street Congratulates These Fine Agentson an Outstanding Job in 2009 703-683-0400

Master’s Club $20 Million or More Chairman’s Club $5-10 Million

Jim Crowe Mike Lekas John Randolph Norma Stratton Bob Skinner Brandy Buzinski Gary Ansley

Chris White Brad Kintz Dayna Blumel & Kerry Adams

Franki Roberts Susan Haughton Philip Matyas Sheryl Lambson Pat Tierney Klanci Vanderhyde Louise Devers Founder’s Club $10-20 Million

Pat Wilson Anita Vida-D’Antonio Margaret Keagle Steve Kindrick Michael Manuel Julia Martin

President’s Club $3-5 Million Bette & Betsy Gorman Sean Satkus & Kendra Carey Patricia Landaeta & Georgia McLaughlin

Catherine Foltz Elke Kohler George Myers Mindy Brubaker Ruth Guirard Deborah Alea Sheryl Powers-Vermont & Paula Powers

Kim Muffler Martine Irmer Laura Biederman Brian Hong & Jery Beamer Mary Lou Sage

Susan Batchelder Margaret Ruhe Steven Hollowell Sharon Edwards Connie McKeen David Okonsky

Katalin Melamed Martha Deal Inderjeet Jumani Rose Mary Cousins Marcy Covarrubias Mary Taylor Randy Bender Renee Reymond Suzanne Backus Shane Canny & Mary Bourke

14 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 15 Alexandria Old Town Historic District Office Congratulates These Fine Agents on an Outstanding Job in 2009

Director’s Club $2-3 Million

Pat Richards Denise Elfes Ann Kavaljian Delaine Campbell Maria Matthews Ginger Webre Judy Pisciotta

Sheila Kolb Anne Hambley Pat Garrity Jill DiPasquale Cathy Smyles Anya Macklin

Executive’s Club $1-2 Million

Ellen Young Derrick Hammond Rich Webber Heidi Kohler Peggy Baldwin Suzanne Briar & Bob Wood Desiree Gilman

Norma Gants Janice Allen Bonnie Clark Ben Grouby Emily Capelli Arynne Crane Dina Gorrell

Ann Logsdon Mary Ellen Walker Charles Harris Bob Polson Kira Lopez Ron Keohane Virginia Jacob Bonnie Apple LONG & FOSTER, REALTORS® Old Town Historic District Office 400 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 703-683-0400

16 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Major Antiques Show in Alexandria

ntiques In Alexandria, a show fea- to all collectors. Aturing 60 of the nation’s top antique Among the dealers exhibiting are Mark dealers, returns to Flippin Field and Marjorie Allen, W. Graham Arader III, House at the Episcopal High School, 3900 Alfred Bullard, Douglas Constant, Judd Gre- West Braddock Road, Alexandria, on March gory, G. Sergeant Antiques, Andrew 12-14. Hours for the show are 11 a.m. to Spindler, and William Cooke. 8 p.m. on Friday, March 12; 11 a.m. to 6 Special events at this year’s show include p.m. on Saturday, March 13; and 11 a.m. a guided show tour with a decorative arts to 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 14. A Gala Pre- expert (Friday, 10 a.m. $25), an illustrated The show features 60 of the view Party will be held on Thursday, March folk art lecture with Americana expert Bev nation’s top antique dealers. 11 from 7 to 10 p.m. Norwood (Friday, 2 p.m. $25), a speakeasy ($35), and a loan exhibition (Spirits in Antiques In Alexandria features a wide party (Friday, 6-8 p.m. $45), a champagne America). array of fine American, English, Oriental brunch with Chris Jussel, original host of Proceeds from ticket sales and special and Continental furniture, silver, porcelain, Antiques Roadshow (Saturday, 11 a.m. events benefit three Washington-area chari- rugs, paintings, jewelry, clocks, folk art, $45), an evaluation and conservation clinic ties. Admission is $15 per person and includes garden furniture, and other decorative arts. (Saturday, 2-5 p.m. $5 per item), a lecture a show catalog. There is free parking, a cafe Arts ❖ Entertainment ❖ Leisure With 60 nationally-recognized dealers, An- and fashion show on the eight-decade his- and a bar. Visit www.antiquesin tiques in Alexandria has dealers of interest tory of the cocktail dress (Sunday, 1 p.m. alexandria.com or call 703-548-SHOW.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Is March 6

The City of Alexandria and the Ballyshaners (Gaelic for “Old Towners”) will host the 29th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, in celebration of Irish-American heritage on Saturday, March 6. The parade begins at King and West Streets and follows a route down King Street, past the reviewing stand at North Royal Street, and ends on the block of Fairfax Street between King Street and Cameron Street. The parade will begin at 12:30 p.m., and is expected to conclude by 2:30 p.m. The Grand Marshal for the 2010 Parade will be Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody, Commanding General, U.S. Army Materiel Command. The day’s festivities officially kick off with the Classic Car Show Competition. The show starts at 10 a.m. with automobiles on display on North Pitt Street at King Street. The Fun Dog Show begins at 10:30 a.m. in Market Square (corner of North Royal and King Streets) and will conclude at noon. All events are sponsored by the Ballyshaners, a not-for-profit group that organizes and orches- trates the Alexandria St. Patrick’s Day Parade in partnership with the City of Alexandria. Visit www.ballyshaners.org.

John Kander composed music that ran the gamut of early variety styles and the great All That Jazz! Ralph Burns orchestrated it all for 13 musi- cians. The show was a solid hit in 1975 and would be remembered as a smash if it Big Band sparks “Chicago.” weren’t for the fact that is was the year that “A Chorus Line” opened to such rapturous By Brad Hathaway reviews and word of mouth that “Chicago” The Gazette was all but lost in the shuffle. But in 1996 a revival was staged, putting all the action he rocking jazz sound of one of the best commu- on and around an on-stage bandstand. Tnity theater bands in recent memory kicks off the Again using Burn’s charts, the band was very Little Theatre of Alexandria’s new production of much a part of every scene — even the con- Kander and Ebb’s fabulously entertaining musical “Chi- ductor got into the act, announcing some cago” when they launch into the flashy opening number, of the scenes. Nasto handles these duties “All That Jazz.” The band, however, is only one of the plea- with aplomb while leading the band with sures this superb production offers. solid rhythms, a good sense of tempo and There is a fine pair of performances by the leading la- drawing a real sense of musical excitement dies. Bethany Blakey is a super-sexy hardened murderess from his crew. awaiting trial in Chicago’s women’s detention center un- True to the staging of the 1996 revival der the extortionist supervision of “Matron Mama Morton” Photo by Shane Canfield which is still running on Broadway after (Jennifer Strand). Jordan Hougham is wonderfully flighty Andy Izquierdo (Billy Flynn) and the ensemble of “Chicago,” over 5,000 performances, the entire show on the surface but with a devious plotting brain under- which plays through March 20 at The Little Theatre of takes place on the black bandstand outlined neath as the fame-intoxicated new arrival on murderer’s Alexandria. with proscenium lights until the final mo- row. Both sing and dance well either separately or as a ments when a silver tinsel curtain picks up team in the up-tempo finale “Nowadays/R.S.V.P./Keep It music.” on Ken and Patti Crowley’s multi-colored Hot.” But it is the band — the 13 enthusiastic as well as skilled musicians lights for “Keep it Hot.” Throughout the The show also offers an equally fine pair of principal under the baton of music director Paul Nasto — that is the real star of the night, the cast does a capable job with the supporting actor performances. Andy Izquierdo is just as show. Nasto is making his Little Theatre of Alexandria debut. It is a debut choreography that Amy Carson has adapted flashy and flamboyant as you could want as the defense that makes me hope he’ll handle music direction duties for more musicals from the unmistakeable work of Ann attorney who believes he can win any defendant an ac- both here and at other community theaters in the area. Reinking for the revival, which was, itself, quittal through pure razzle-dazzle and he’s in fine voice “Chicago” is a piece that requires this kind of quality performance by a billed as “in the style of Bob Fosse.” for the smarmy “All I Care About” (is love) and, aided by band. It is a musical that tells its story in individual scenes that are each a Hougham, handles the faux-ventriloquism of “We Both type of vaudeville act in the style of the revues and variety shows of the Where and When Reached for the Gun” with high humor. Jon Keeling pulls early part of the 20th century. The script by the original director/choreog- “Chicago” plays through March 20 at the off the sometimes difficult trick of drawing comic atten- rapher, Bob Fosse, and lyricist, Fred Ebb is about as fast-paced as a Broad- Little Theatre of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe tion to his character’s principal characteristic as the way show’s can be, and Ebb’s lyrics are both witty and revealing of the Street. Performances are Wednesday - Sat- wronged husband who is such a milquetoast as to be prac- character of the person singing. Thus, each scene is a potential show stop- urday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tick- tically invisible. His droll delivery of “Mr. Cellophane” is a per with a full-out, sell-the-number performance by the vocalists and a ets are $18 - $21. Call 703-683-0496 or log kick and he gets a great laugh when requesting his “exit loud, brassy accompaniment from the band. on to www.thelittletheatre.com. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 17 Calendar Enjoy a Cozy Candlelit Dinner E-mail announcements to the Gazette, “The Finest Lebanese Cuisine” gazette@connection newspapers.com. SUNDAY/MARCH 7 Carryout, catering & delivering available Photos and artwork are encouraged. Landscaping With Fruits. 1:30-3 Deadline is Thursday at noon for the fol- p.m. Lee Reich, author of Family owned & operated lowing week’s paper. Call Steve Hibbard Landscaping with Fruits, will speak at 703-778-9412 with questions. about luscious landscaping with fruiting trees, shrubs and vines. At Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green NOW THROUGH MARCH 20 Spring Road, Alexandria. Cost is $10. “Chicago.” Wednesday to Saturday at Call 703-642-5173. 8 p.m.; Sunday at 3 p.m. Presented Ten Thousand Villages by the Little Theatre of Alexandria, Fundraiser. Noon to 6 p.m. 10 600 Wolfe St., Alexandria. The cast percent of sales will be donated to includes: Bethany Blakely as Velma, the Alexandria Office on Women’s Jordan Houghham as Roxie, Andy Domestic Violence Program. At 915 407 Cameron St. Old Town Alexandria • 703-684-9194 Izquierdo as Billy Flynn, Jennifer King Street in Old Town Alexandria. Strand as Mama Morton, Jon Keeling Visit www.alexwomen.com. www.thepitahouse.com • Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner as Amos, Melissa Stamps as Mary Folk Festival. 2 p.m. By The United Sunshine, along with a talented States Marine Band — The ensemble that includes Ivan Davila, President’s Own. Maj. Jason K. Akiyo Dunetz, Danielle Eure, Jacqui Fettig, conducting. With Percy Farkas, Kristen Magee, Daniel McKay, SATURDAY/MARCH 6 Grainger and Dorothy Chang. At the Keith Miller, Angela Norris, Lauren Two Men in Skirts Concert. 2:30 Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall Palmer. p.m. Scottish music duo performs. and Arts Center, NVCC, 3001 North Tickets are $20/adults, $12/students. Beauregard St., Alexandria. Call 202- Buy tickets at www.rscds- 433-4011 or visit FRIDAY/MARCH 5 greaterdc.org. At the Lyceum, 201 S. www.marineband.usmc.mil. World War II Lecture. With speaker Washington St., Alexandria. Call 703- Ethiopian-American Celebration U.S. Army Lieutenant Dee Paris, now 838-4994. of Motherhood. 3-5 p.m. Free. 94, a World War II Tank Join an intimate gathering of women Commander. Sponsored by the to learn about the customs, March 7 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10/ Mount Vernon Chapter of the traditions, music and food that adults, $8/seniors and students. Call Barbershop Harmony Society. At Ethiopians use to celebrate the 703-212-5166. A musical presented Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 coming of a new baby in their lives. by Bishop Ireton High School, Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria. At Convergence, 1801 N. Quaker Cambridge Road, Alexandria. Contact Mike Everard, President, Lane, Alexandria. Harmony Heritage Singers, 703-941- 1057, [email protected] or Ron SATURDAY/MARCH 6 WEDNESDAY/MARCH 10 Brandt, publicity, 703-765-4779, St. Patrick’s Day Parade/ Antique [email protected] Ladies Luncheon. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 Car Show/ Dog Show. 12:30 - 3 World Day of Prayer. Noon to 1 p.m. p.m. The Springfield/Alexandria p.m. In Old Town Alexandria. The Sponsored by the Salvation Army Women’s Connection invites event is co-sponsored by the Alexandria Corps. Captain Ken Argot everyone to our “Fashion Bargains Ballyshaners Inc. Contact 703-237- of The Salvation Army will preside Galore!” luncheon. At the Springfield 2199 or www.ballyshaners.org. over the hour long service. The Corps Golf & Country Club. Cost of $17 Irish Heritage Program. 2 to 4 p.m. is located at 1804 Mount Vernon includes the luncheon and free Enjoy Irish music, dancing, and other Avenue in Alexandria, Virginia. In childcare. Reservations must be made entertainments of the late 1790s. addition to the World Day of Prayer by Friday, March 5th, to 703-569- Cost is $5 adults, $3 children. At service, a bag lunch will be provided. 4670 or 703-590-6562 or email to Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 [email protected]. MONDAY, MARCH 15 AND CONTINUING THRU SATURDAY, MARCH 20 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria. Call MARCH 5-6 703-549-2997 or visit www.carlylehouse.org. THURSDAY/MARCH 11 Gaetano Donizetti’s Comic Opera. SOLA Ball. 6:30 p.m. to midnight. The 8 p.m. By the Repertory Opera Our Natural Puzzle: Putting the 23rd Annual Symphony Orchestra Theater of Washington. At Immanuel Pieces Together. 7:30 p.m. Get a League of Alexandria (SOLA) Ball. At Church-on-the-Hill, 3606 Seminary peek at just how interdependent our ST. PAT’S PARTY STOP the Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City, 1250 Road, Alexandria. Tickets are $20/ insects, plants, other wildlife, and S. Hayes St., Arlington. Silent and at the person, $15/seniors and students. even humans can be and try to put live auctions, dinner and dancing. Call 571-403 0814. together our local nature puzzle. At Prices: $150 for first-timers, $200 for Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green others. Contact Jane Ring at 703- Spring Road, Alexandria. MARCH 5, 6, 12, 13 548-7454 or [email protected]. Bob Sima Concert. 7 p.m. The To purchase ASO concert tickets, “Go-Go Beach.” 7:30 p.m. Matinee on warmth and sincerity of Bob’s tone where Old Town dines contact the box office at 503- matched with his delicious words are 548-0885 or go to a powerful pairing. At The FEATURING IRISH MUSIC & IRISH SPECIALS!!!! www.alexsym.org. Athenaeum, 201 Prince Street, Black Opal Gala. 9 p.m. to Alexandria. Call 703-548-0035. Visit Grand Irish Drinks 2 a.m. The 10th Anniversary www.bobsima.com. Gala of the Northern Virginia Comedy Stage Hypnotist. 7 p.m. Cream of Potato and Leek Soup Urban League Young Jason Linett performs at T.C. Ham & Cabbage, Irish Potatoes Professionals Network (YPN). Williams High School fund-raiser. YPN engages area young Tickets are $8. Proceeds benefit the Corned Beef, Steamed Cabbage, Irish Potatoes professionals in the Urban Class of 2010. At 3330 King Street in Irish Stew topped with Green Peas League movement toward Alexandria. Contact Dawn Crawford social and economic at [email protected]. Rack of Lamb, Potatoes, Salad, Mint Jelly empowerment through community service, political Stuffed Cabbage awareness and professional FRIDAY/MARCH 12 Beer, Irish Coffee development programs. Ballroom Dancing for Couples. Try Our Key Lime Pie!!! Tickets are $60 until Feb. 15; 8:30-11:30 p.m. Friday Nighters St. $70 after. At the George Patrick’s Day Dance. Enjoy waltz, fox Washington Masonic trot, cha cha, swing and more to live Memorial, 101 Callahan music on large wooden dance floor in Drive, Alexandria. Contact Mount Vernon area. $15/person; 734 N. St. Asaph Street Karen James, Director of reservations required. Social Programs, www.fridaynightersdancingclub.com. 703-548-1616 [email protected]; 703- Irish Music 785-9762. SATURDAY/MARCH 13 MARCH 6-7 Silent Auction. 7-10 p.m. To benefit the Tauxemont Cooperative N. Washington Street The 24th Annual Jazz & Preschool, Alexandria. Lots of great Tap Dance Festival. deals. Details: http:// Saturday at 8 p.m. and SATURDAY/MARCH 6 www.tauxemont.org/support/ Sunday at 4 p.m. At the silentauction2010.pdf 7 blocks North Alexandria Choral Society. 8 p.m. Presents Northern Virginia Community Dance Studio Lioudmila’s Saint Madison St. King Street Pour l’amour de la Musique with Brian Gendron, Old WE ARE HERE College, Annandale Campus Patrick’s Dance Party. Beginner 734 North Saint Asaph St. Artistic Director. At Fairlington United Cultural Center, 8333 Little Town Rumba Dance lesson from 7:30-8:30 Alexandria, Va. 22314 Methodist Church, Alexandria. Cost is $10/ River Turnpike, Annandale. p.m. Dance party from 8:30-11 p.m. N. Saint Asaph The Royal seniors, $20/adults over 13 years of age, Tickets: $18 – In advance at: Cost is $15. At Dance Studio children 12 and under are free. Visit www.jatdf.org 1-800-595- Lioudmila, 18th Roth Street, Visa/Mastercard/Amex Ample Free Parking www.AlexChoralSociety.org or 4TIX ; $20 – At the door. [email protected]. See Calendar, Page 21 18 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Theatre ‘Mahalia’ Returns

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By Carolyn Griffin My Hand, Precious Lord,” and “Move on up a Complimentary MetroStage Little Higher.” As the “Queen of Gospel Mu- high speed internet sic,” Mahalia performed at Carnegie Hall to ernardine Mitchell and the original great acclaim. But she also played an impor- Bcast of “Mahalia, a gospel musical,” tant role in the Civil Rights movement, as a which includes Alexandria’s own friend of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and per- award-winning artist William Hubbard, have forming in front of 250,000 at the Lincoln returned to MetroStage (after a five-year ab- Memorial in 1963. With Mitchell’s extraordi- sence) to cheering, clapping, swaying audi- nary contralto voice, critics and audience alike ences. The story of Mahalia Jackson, gospel find that Mitchell is literally channeling music and the civil rights movement has Mahalia Jackson in both her music and her Waterfront suites with Full Service resort Marina touched the hearts of everyone who sees it. spirit. unparalleled views on the quiet side of town The production of “Mahalia, a gospel mu- In addition to showcasing some of the most sical” is a beautiful example of the power of talented artists in the country, MetroStage is theater. Whether audiences grew up with committed to producing plays full of heart Mahalia’s music in their homes and gospel and soul that touch our audiences deeply and Relax, music in their churches, or know Mahalia in embrace the diversity of our population. There Rejuvenate name only, and have only a limited connec- are only two weeks remaining in this run of and Restore tion or knowledge of gospel music, one thing “Mahalia, a gospel musical,” but there is still at the Spa at is certain. Everyone responds to the extraor- time to experience Bernardine Mitchell and Harbour Inn dinary story of Mahalia Jackson and is moved the multi-talented cast of S. Renee Clark and Pascal’s Restaurant Newly Renovated by her story, her faith, her music, and her Alexandria’s beloved William Hubbard as we Waterfront Eclectic Seafood Restaurant heart. Mahalia rose from humble beginnings celebrate the music of Mahalia Jackson and in New Orleans, moving to Chicago during her contribution to both the rise of gospel the Great Migration of the 1920’s, singing at music and her role in the Civil Rights move- Visit us on the web at www.harbourinn.com churches with professional gospel groups. ment. 101 North Harbor Road • St. Michaels, MD 21663 Many of her most famous gospel songs are Carolyn Griffin is the Producing Artistic Di- 410.745.9001 included in this production, including “Take rector, MetroStage

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 19 www.partnersinrealestate.com • Licensed Brokers in DC, VA and MD

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20 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Calendar Fine Arts From Page 18

At the Art League Gallery, 105 Alexandria. Call 703-751-8868, MARCH 4-8 [email protected]. Web: North Union Street, www.dancelioudmila.com Biennial Ikebana Show. The Art Alexandria. Go to Mozart in March. 7 p.m. Free. League welcomes The Sogestu School www.theartleague.org or call Presented by the Washington for its biennial Ikebana Show in the 703-683-1780. Sinfonietta. At Plymouth Haven Art League Gallery. Ikebana is the art of Japanese flower arranging and Baptist Church, 8600 Plymouth FRIDAY/MARCH 12 Road, Alexandria. Call 703-360- Sogetsu is one of the many schools of 4370. Ikebana. The Art League is at 105 Workshop: In the Bag. 6- Used Book Sale. Friends Book North Union Street, Alexandria. Open 10 p.m. Create a bag from Sale. Kingstowne Library, 6500 daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday recycled materials, old Landsdowne Centre, from noon to 6 p.m. Thursday until 9 clothing, your favorite dress, Alexandria. Call 703-339-4610. Scout J.J. Stinson, who is p.m. This exhibit will include: vintage towels and more. At ❖ Flower arranging demonstration by the Del Ray Artisans Gallery, March Madness Festival. 9 earning his Eagle Scout award a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Historic Non- Tone Olson: Saturday, March 6 at 1 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., by collecting quilts made for p.m. Alexandria. Advance Fiction Author Thomas E. ❖ Crocker (Braddock’s March ) at preemies. Japanese Tea Ceremony and registration is required by 9:30 a.m.; Children’s Author discussion of Chado, the Japanese Tuesday, March 9 at https:// Betty Shepard (Virginia: An TUESDAY/MARCH 9 way of tea, with Stephen di Girolamo secure.delrayartisans.org/ssl/ Alphabetical Journey through Mount Vernon Quilters Unlimited. of the National Portrait Gallery, Accessories.htm. Fee is $40 Smithsonian Institution: Sunday, for DRA members / $45 for History ) at 9:45 a.m.; Face 12:30 p.m. Business meeting, Show and March 7, 1:30 p.m. Marni Maree – “Stems” non-members. Contact Jen Painting with Miss Nadine from Tell, Preemie quilts collected for INOVA ❖ Musical Performance by the Athanas 571-332-0181 or 10 a.m. to 12 noon; Children’s hospital. All quilters and folks interested in MARCH 1 TO APRIL 25 Author Bebe Willoughby Washington Toho Koto Society, [email protected]. quilting are welcome. At Hollin Hall Sr. Art in the Gardens. Free. Featuring the (Saving Emma ) at 10:45 a.m.; performed by Mrs. Kyoko Okamoto: Center, 1500 Shenandoah Road watercolors of Marni Maree and photographs Adult Novelist R. K. Price (I’ve Sunday, March 7 at 3 p.m. Alexandria. Visit of Jefferson Evans. Open noon to 4:30 p.m. NOW THROUGH MARCH 25 Already Met the Devil ) at 11 www.quiltersunlimited.org/mtv.htm daily. Meet the artist reception is Sunday, April a.m.; Katie Balloons and her Springfield Art Guild Art MARCH 5-31 11 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. At Green Spring balloon show from 12 noon to 3 Show. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Works Gardens Park Horticultural Center, 4603 Green p.m.; Folk Dancers from 2:30 to 3:30 Sidney Lowery’s “Waves.” include oil, watercolor, Spring Road, Alexandria. Call 703-642-5173 or p.m., plus refreshments and a book Reception on March 5 from 6:30 to photography, and mixed Gullah People” which explores the visit www.GreenSpring.org. sale! At the Ellen Coolidge Burke Gullah culture through traditional 10 p.m. and March 28 from 4:30 to 9 medium. At the Franconia Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road, stories. From 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m., p.m. At Blueberry Art Gallery, 116 E. Government Center, 6121 Alexandria. take part in “Black Storytelling 101.” Del Ray Ave., Alexandria. Call 703- Franconia Road, Alexandria. Alexandria Coin Show. 9 a.m. to 5 At the Alexandria Black History 894-8854 or Lukacs at 703-979-8996 or Contact: Reggie Garrett, FGC Show p.m. There will be 50 tables with U.S. Museum, 902 Wythe Street, [email protected]. [email protected]. Visit Chair at [email protected]. Call coins and currency, world coins, Alexandria. Call 703-746-4356. www.TheDelRayArtisans.org. 703-971-6262. banknotes, ancient coins, hobby MARCH 13-14 FRIDAY/MARCH 5 books, gold, silver, medals, tokens MARCH 11-APRIL 5 MARCH 26 TO MAY 9 and collectibles. Buy, Sell, Trade. Alexandria Symphony Orchestra. Women in Art: Body of Work. Peep and Strip Show. In Rosemary Cedric Williams’ Nostalgia and Open to the public. Visit Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 3 p.m. Opening reception 7-10 p.m. Artists Feit Covey’s “Peep Show” series, she Dereliction. Artist’s reception is www.members.cox.net/ With Maestro Kim Allen Kluge, violin will explore the varied roles of combines the secret, sexual world Sunday, April 18 from 4-6 p.m. The alexandriacoinclub. At the Hampton soloist Allison Bailey and vocalists women in the creative life. At the Del associated with the modern hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday Inn & Suites, corner of I-495 Beltway Elizabeth Bishop and Ta’u Pupu’a. At Ray Artisans gallery, Nicholas A. definition of “Peep Show” with the to Friday and during performances. and Route 1, Alexandria. the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount innocent world of Victorian-era peep At the Schlesinger Center Margaret Storyteller Baba Jamal Koram. 11 Hall and Arts Center, 3001 N. Vernon Ave., Alexandria. Contact show boxes. Opening reception is W. & Joseph L. Fisher Gallery, at the a.m. to noon. Koram will present Beauregard St., Alexandria. Call 703- Ellyn Ferguson at 703-549-2660 or Thursday, March 11 from 6:30-8 p.m. Alexandria Campus of Northern “African Stories in De Americas: The 548-0885 or visit www.alexsym.org. [email protected] or Vivienne Virginia Community College. Visit These Houses of Worship Join A Club, Make New Friends, or Expand Your Horizons...

Christ the Saviour Hit Me Up! Join us for our free spring concert Anglican Church 10 am Sunday Worship Service “To Love & Serve the Lord with Sunday School classes (child to adult) “The World Beloved” Gladness & Singleness of Heart” and youth group (7th to 12th grade) Location – Washington Mill ES 9 am to noon Monday through Friday Pre-School A bold collaboration 9100 Cherrytree Drive of African-American Worship Service – 10 a.m. Wesley United Methodist Church Inter-generational Sunday School – after service 8412 Richmond Ave, Alexandria, VA 22309 Vicar, The Rev. Huey J Sevier (just off Richmond Highway, near Fort Belvoir & Mount Vernon) Spirituals and www.christthesaviouranglican.org 703-780-5019 • www.wesleyva.org Appalachian 703-953-2854 Good Shepherd Bluegrass.

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www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 21 Opinion Letters Proposed House Budget Hits Home From Page 12 Vernon “club” ($50-$5000 membership By Scott Surovell dren. It will also mean that The House Budget also deleted arts fund- fee), which it could use much more effec- State Delegate localities will try to replace this ing which will affect local programs like the tively to inform area residents about upcom- lost revenue by raising real es- Mount Vernon Children’s Community The- ing plans, not just upcoming events. In this s the state legislature enters tate taxes yet again. atre and arts programs in our schools. It day and age of electronic communication, the final weeks of this ses The House and Senate also also reduced funding for homeless pro- a Friends email-group list could be used, Asion, a House-Senate con proposed to “adjust” revenue grams affecting New Hope Housing and for example, for even such basic but cour- ference committee is trying and expense forecasts, some- Good Shepherd Housing. It wiped out fund- tesy-inspired communications as letting to resolve the differences in their two thing which always raises red ing for United Community Ministries’ residents know when Mt. Vernon will be versions of the budget. flags with me. For example, Healthy Families Program, a program with letting off fireworks or cannons at 10 p.m. I voted against the budget that came the House and Senate passed a proven record of reducing domestic vio- so residents (especially, young school-age before the House of Delegates because it is legislation to reduce state employee pen- lence. kids and the elderly) don’t keep waking up short-sighted and will do great harm to our sion contributions by changing payout for- The House Budget passed with no Demo- in alarm at these unanticipated sonic dis- schools and many families in our area. mulas, delaying and reducing our obliga- cratic votes for the first time in recent turbances. Education is key to the tions to state employees. The Pew Founda- memory. I voted “no.” Virginia has always In a nutshell, we would like to see better Richmond future fulfillment and pro- tion estimates that state pensions are al- prided itself on first-class public schools and communications and more community- Report ductivity of our children ready $1 trillion underfunded nationwide, colleges. We have always maintained our based ventures between Mt. Vernon Estate and gives them more with Virginia’s being 10 percent AAA bond rating and have been ranked the and its resident neighbors — along with choices in life. Virginia’s underfunded. The legislature just proposed Best Managed State six of the last seven county and state agencies — to preserve and public education system enabled me to ac- to underfund it even further. This is short- years. I will continue to fight these propos- in some cases improve the historical and complish whatever I wanted. The House sighted and extremely risky in the long- als because I am deeply concerned we are aesthetics importance of the Mt. Vernon Budget for education funding is disturbing. term, setting us up to pay a much larger sacrificing our future for short-term expe- Hwy corridor. This will be of mutual ben- It guts kindergarten through 12th grade bill 20-30 years from now. diency and putting Virginia into the kind of efit to Mt. Vernon Estate, the good impres- education by reducing payments to locali- Today, Virginia’s per capita Medicaid expense cycle that has handcuffed states sion left on its out-of-area tourists arriving ties by $700 million or $233,000 per Vir- spending is 48th in the United States. The like California and New York. I am hopeful via Rte 235, as well as to local residents ginia school and including about $40 mil- House budget proposed to reduce Medicaid that the Senate Budget will be more respon- who do take great pride in their local trea- lion for Fairfax County. This will result in by $400 million. This will result in lower sible. sure, Mt. Vernon. 28,000 Virginia educators losing their jobs. payments to providers and fewer low-income I have posted many more articles on my We hope that Mt. Vernon Estate will act When combined with the Fairfax County children, pregnant mothers and elderly get- blog The Dixie Pig at on the realization that its neighbors are po- School Board’s proposals, the proposed cuts ting health care coverage. It will also bring scottsurovell.blogspot.com. Good govern- tentially its biggest support base – but we are about $1 million per school and $1,000 higher premiums for all Virginians with pri- ment depends on good communication and are also taxpaying, politically active resi- per child in Fairfax County. This will result vate health insurance and is predicated to your input. Please send me your comments dents. Disgruntled neighbors complain; in fewer opportunities for Virginia’s chil- eliminate 6,000 health industry jobs. and suggestions. sometimes they leave, but when property values decline because of perceived devel- opment problems in the area, the Mt. Vernon Estate could lose the good will and Hoath Recieves In Hope Freedom Rings Scholarship support of the very people it needs to keep Marcy Hoath of Mt. the Mt. Vernon corridor - “George’s High- Vernon High School way” - looking good. received a $10,000 In Hope Freedom Rings Andree C. Dumermuth scholarship on Jan. Mt. Vernon 12 at the Café at the Gatehouse Adminis- trative Center in Falls Irresponsible Church. Lawsuit Marcy is the presi- dent of the National To the Editor: Honor Society; man- Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli an- aging editor of the nounced that his office had filed a petition school newspaper; with the Environmental Protection Agency and a member of the asking them to reconsider their finding that Mock United Nations, carbon dioxide emissions are pollution and Varsity Math Team, constitute a threat to human health. Mr. and the Future Busi- Cuccinelli is wasting critical time and ness Leaders of money pressuring the federal government America while main- to delay action on the issue of climate taining a 4.174 grade change. point average. A star At a time when Virginia’s budget is al- field hockey and soc- ready strapped and we are forced to make cer player, Marcy severe cuts to education, mental health, and helped her hockey the environment, this frivolous lawsuit team win the Na- Marcy Hoath of Mt. Vernon High School attended the presentation of In Hope Freedom could cost taxpayers hundreds of thousands tional District Cham- Rings scholarship. of dollars. That is fiscally irresponsible. pionship. The General Assembly is currently con- Her school counselor points out that Each year, Friedman participates as a has awarded the scholarships. The busi- sidering cuts to programs that help conserve “Marcy selects the most rigorous courses sponsor and recruits other sponsors from nesses that contributed are: Burke Cen- land, protect our water from being polluted, available to her … she has admirable per- the local business community who share her tre Automotive; CouponsToGo.com; and assist farmers in their efforts to do both sistence and has demonstrated time and goal of helping students attend college. This Cropp-Metcalfe Air Conditioning, Heat- of these things. again that she is a blossoming leader.” enables her to award the scholarships with ing, Plumbing & Security; Hadeed Ori- The House of Delegates is proposing a The Foundation was started five years 100 percent of the donations going to the ental Rug Cleaning; Papa John’s Pizza; $400,000 cut (eliminating the entire pro- ago by local business owner Margo R. scholarships. The foundation has awarded Prince William Home Improvement; gram) to a Purchase of Development Rights Friedman, a former school teacher, who $90,000 to Fairfax County students. Springfield Lorton Dental Group; and program that helps farmers to preserve their wanted to give back to the community. This is the fifth year that the foundation Virginia Tire & Auto. working farmland from development. This See Letters, Page 25

22 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette Sports Editor Jon Roetman Sports 703-224-3015 or [email protected] Wolverines Dedicate Season to ‘Coach Moe’ West Potomac wins Patriot championship, while honoring former assistant coach.

By Jon Roetman The Gazette

est Potomac boys basketball coach David Houston III Wneeded a minute. He stood down the hall from the Wol- verines’ locker room, composing himself while leaning against a wall. The Wolverines’ season had just ended with a 63-51 home loss to Chantilly on Feb. 25 in the quarterfinals of the Northern Re- gion tournament. But it was more than just the culmination of the 2009-10 campaign to Houston and the Wolverines. It was the end of an emotional run which saw a group of players improve from six wins and sev- enth place in the Patriot District to district champions, 17 wins and a regional victory over Falls Church. Eight West Potomac seniors had played their final game and Houston wanted a moment before he spoke to them in the locker room. “They gave everything they had,” Hous- ton would later say. “Nobody felt like we would be in the regional tournament — not Courtesy photo even in the regional tournament — let alone Photo Louise Krafft/The Gazette Maurice Barbour, a former West Potomac summer the top team in the best district in the re West Potomac senior Shakil White goes up for a shot coach and junior varsity assistant, died May 21 of a while Chantilly junior John Manning, listed at 7 feet, heart attack at the age of 35. The West Potomac See West Potomac, Page 24 defends. varsity dedicated the 2009-10 season to “Coach Moe.” Ferguson’s Hot Hand Not Enough for Mount Vernon

lead to 37-31 with 2:28 remaining, but Senior hits 5 3s but Majors lose to Chantilly in regional semifinals. couldn’t get over the hump. Alfonso Smith said one of the biggest differences between Jon Roetman Ferguson was the game’s high scorer and second semester after becoming academi- Saturday’s contest and when Mount Vernon The Gazette kept the Majors from getting blown out cally ineligible. His first game was Feb. 4 defeated Chantilly 55-52 on Jan. 9 is the early while the “big three” of Skylar Jones, against Stuart. Chargers on Saturday had an answer for ith Mount Vernon’s top scoring Robert Smith and Jesse Konadu struggled Ferguson scored 13 of Mount Vernon’s 16 every Majors run. Wthreats struggling and 7-foot to find their rhythm. Mount Vernon went points in the second quarter. While the season ended in disappoint- Chantilly junior John Manning without a field goal for the first 6 minutes, “From the beginning [my teammates] ment for Mount Vernon, the team’s seniors swatting away ill-fated attempts in the 29 seconds of the game — until Ferguson were looking for me,” Ferguson said. “After — Smith, Stewart, Stann Hazelwood, Jones, paint, senior Deontre’ Ferguson tried to came off the bench and made a 3-pointer. the first [3-pointer], I just got hot and they Dylan Bischoff — leave the program hav- shoot the Majors back into Saturday’s His second triple stopped a 7-0 Chantilly kept giving me the ball.” ing helped turn it into one of the more suc- Northern Region semifinal from long range. run to open the second quarter, and his third Jones, Smith and Konadu carried Mount cessful in the Northern Region. The Majors Ferguson drained five 3-pointers, includ- and fourth were part of a 9-0 Majors run. Vernon on the offensive end for most of the won back-to-back National District cham- ing four in the first half, en route to a sea- “[Ferguson] did what we ask him to do season. On this night, Jones and Konadu pionships while losing only one district son-high 24 points. It wasn’t enough, how- on this team,” Mount Vernon coach Alfonso had their shots blocked or altered numer- game (this season against district newcomer ever, as the Majors fell to Chantilly 69-57 Smith said. “He’s one of the better shooters ous times by Manning, and Smith also Hayfield). at Robinson Secondary School, ending their that’s come through Mount Vernon since I’ve struggled to get into a rhythm. Konadu fin- “We really felt confident coming in that season in the regional semifinals for the been there. He showed that that was actu- ished with 13 points, Jones had seven and we’d be able to get over this hump,” Alfonso second consecutive year. ally the case tonight. … We really were in Smith added six. “[Manning] had a tremen- Smith said of getting past the regional semi- Ferguson’s fifth 3-pointer brought Mount an offensive funk. Some of the guys that dous impact,” Jones said, “on how we at- finals. “It’s an empty feeling, a disappoint- Vernon to within seven at 62-55 with 55 really get us kick started offensively were tacked the basket.” ing feeling. … The senior class has been an seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. But struggling a little bit early. Deontre’ came In the second half, the Majors got within excellent class. With the run that T.C. [Wil- Chantilly knocked down seven of its final in and really gave us a big spark off the five when Jones scored the first basket of liams] put together [winning 80 consecu- eight free-throw attempts and put the game bench.” the third quarter and six when Sean Stewart tive Patriot District games before forfeits]; away. Ferguson joined the Majors during the knocked down a 3-pointer to cut Chantilly’s I think that kind of gets overlooked.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 23 Sports Wolverines Dedicate Season to ‘Coach Moe’ From Page 23 good heart that believed in God and be- selves. gion. … This is the best team that I’ve lieved that there was a better purpose,” “His favorite words were always, ‘Have had as far as a collection of players with Houston said. “He used to talk all the time, Wolverine pride,’” senior Shawn Lee said. one goal. … We won the [district] champi- “He’d do anything even though we were losing, ‘It’s going to “He always used to talk about pride.” onship [and] I think we did it the right way. for the kids. He turn around, it’s going to come around.’ The Pride wasn’t enough for West Potomac to We didn’t go out and get transfers. We did kids really loved him.” get past Chantilly. Consecutive 3-pointers it with the same kids we had last year.” loved being around by senior Terrell Ward gave the Wolverines BARBOUR’S ATTITUDE made the Wol- a 21-14 advantage at the end of the first MOTIVATION came in multiple forms for them.” verines want to give maximum effort. quarter, but the lead slowly slipped away. West Potomac. While the Wolverines — West Potomac head boys “He was always positive,” senior Shakil West Potomac led 27-25 at halftime but wanted to prove others wrong regarding White said. “He just knew how to pump you Chantilly took over late in the third quarter their ability, they also played for a greater basketball coach on former up.” when Adam Fridy drained three consecu- purpose. assistant Maurice Barbour “He was real good before the games at tive 3-pointers to put the Chargers ahead, Rev. Maurice Barbour, “Coach Moe” to the getting us real motivated,” senior Matt 38-29. Wolverines, died May 21, 2009, of a heart Cunningham said, “and lighting that fire Fridy’s fifth and final triple put Chantilly attack at the age of 35. He was a summer driving them to McDonald’s or KFC.” inside of us.” ahead by 15 with 3:49 to play in the fourth league coach for West Potomac before Hous- Barbour joined Mt. Zoar Baptist Church Coach Moe’s ability to inspire remained quarter. Despite the deficit, the Wolverines ton added him to the Wolverine staff as a in Fairfax in 1999. He attended Washing- after his death. continued playing hard, just how Coach junior varsity assistant for the 2008-09 sea- ton Baptist Seminary in 2000 and was or- “He always treated me like a brother,” Moe would have wanted. son. An ordained Baptist minister, Barbour’s dained in 2006. He had two sons, Maurice senior Martez Redfearn said. “We could talk “No matter what the score was of any relationship with the Wolverines was such Barbour II and Micah Church-Barbour, and about anything. … He was a good man — game, he still kept us up,” senior DeAndre that they dedicated their 2009-10 season one daughter, Mauriah Church-Barbour. good coach, too. … When he passed, I was Essex said. “We still played hard for him to his memory. The Wolverines had a moment of silence like, ‘I know what I have to do. I’ve got to every game. The way he spoke to us was “He was a fiery guy, always positive,” to honor Coach Moe before every game. The push myself to another level now. I’ve got motivation.” Houston said. “I don’t think I ever heard or team also kept a two-by-four board bear- to work hard.’ I knew that’s what he wanted. Fridy led Chantilly with 21 points. Daryl saw him [act in a] negative [manner], not ing Barbour’s name next to the bench. When “He wanted to see us go far. I wish he Copeland paced West Potomac with 16 once. He’d do anything for the kids. He Coach Moe died, Houston said 18 kids in was here to see this year. He would have points and Ward added 10. loved being around them. He’d drive them the West Potomac program attended his fu- been hyped on the bench. … He was a big “I think he’s looking down proud,” Hous- to summer league games when we were neral at the Greater Little Zion Baptist part of West Potomac basketball.” ton said after the game. “I definitely don’t bad. We were getting beat by 25, 35, 40 Church in Fairfax. As a coach, Barbour told the Wolverines think that he’s angry right now or said or points and he’s still picking them up and “He was just a really good person with a to push the tempo and believe in them- disappointed.”

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24 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News 703-917-6400 Employment Zone 3: • Alexandria Classified Zone 3 Ad Deadline: Budget Cuts • Mount Vernon Tuesday Noon

From Page 1 TELEPHONE TELEPHONE 110 Elderly Care 26 Antiques 101 Computers 101 Computers A great opportunity to A great opportunity to boats to safety after mechanical failure. WORK AT HOME! WORK AT HOME! Lady will clean We consign/pay top $ for EASY COMPUTER SOLUTIONS FOR NATIONAL CHILDRENS CENTER NATIONAL CHILDRENS CENTER antique/semi antique furn. HDI INDIVIDUALS & SMALL BUSINESSES By eliminating this unit, the county would No sell! Salary + Bonus + Benefits! No sell! Salary + Bonus + Benefits! houses, including mid century & JENNIFER O. SMITH • COMPUTER CONSULTANT save $222,287. 301-333-1900 301-333-1900 $65/day danish modern Teak ➣ TRAINING ➣ INSTALLATION ➣ TROUBLE-SHOOTING Weekdays 9-4 Weekdays 9-4 furniture, sterling, mens ❖ ☎☎ ☎☎ ☎☎ ☎☎ ➣ LET US TAME THAT BEAST FOR YOU Eliminate daytime “lock up” service at Help Elderly, watches, painting/art glass, the Mount Vernon District Police Station. Babysit Sat-$70 clocks, jewelry, costume Serving the Area Since 1995 Currently, police officers can book and hold COMPANIONS & jewelry, etc. Call Schefer (703) 765-2222 703-379-2096 Antiques @ 703-241-0790. suspects at the Mount Vernon police station CNA’s NEEDED [email protected] instead of transporting them to the Adult Enable seniors to live independently in their own 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements Detention Center in Fairfax. Griffin has pro- homes with our non-medical companionship and home care services. Rewarding P/T days, evenings, weekends, Now! Complete posed cutting this service during the day, live-ins, medical benefits offered. which would mean that officers may have Home Instead Senior Care. Print Editions to spend more time driving people who are Call Today: 703-750-6665 arrested to the main detention facility. The Online! center averages 1.4 prisoners per day. The Medical Receptionist - P/T The full print editions of all 18 “lock up” service will be available at night. Arlington/MT Vernon. 2 + days/wk. We Connection Newspapers are now By implementing this cut, the county would are looking for a team member who can available on our Web Site in PDF format, save $160,000. be flexible. Some front desk exp. pref’d. page by page, identical to our weekly ❖ Reduce the service of the basic life sup- Mature & reliable a must. Great office. newsprint editions, including print port unit at the Mount Vernon fire station Call 703-491-1191 ask for Nancy advertising. Go to from 24 hours per day, seven days per week www.ConnectionNewspapers.com to eight hours per day, five days per week. and click on “Print Editions.” The fire station’s service area will be staffed BEST CHILDCARE JOBS! only by a advanced life support unit on F/T, P/T, On-Call, Top Salaries weekends and during “non-peak hours,” 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements resulting in longer wait times for an emer- No Fees, Must be 21, Legal & Drive gency response. References Req’d ❖ Eliminate regular patrols by the fire- 703-838-2100 boat that previously took place from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the boating season. The White House Nannies, Inc fireboat will still be available to respond to emergency calls but response times may be longer. The cost savings to the county is Ladies Apparel PRINT EDITIONS about $10,000. M SALES PERSON Letters Part-time, Full-time • Top Salary Excellent working conditions. From Page 22 Flexible hours. No nights/Sundays. Requirements: retail ladies fashion exp, energetic, is the amount of money that could be mature 40+, pleasant personality, fluent English. wasted on this lawsuit against EPA. Call Mrs. Shipe Between 11am & 4pm 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements Mr. Cuccinelli has asserted that the en- MAE’S DRESS BOUTIQUE 703-356-6333 • McLean, Virginia dangerment process and climate science in general are being misused as a part of a broader political agenda. In fact, the EPA under both President Bush and President Obama played critical roles in developing the finding over a two-year period of time 2010 beginning in 2007. Cuccinelli, however, as- serts that climate change is not man made EXPANSION and has publicly stated that he intends to Great Pay! use his office to pursue his personal agenda, a part of which is stopping important envi- FT/PT. Temp/Perm. Ideal for ronmental legislation in its tracks. students/others. Sales/Svc, Flex Virginia’s coastline is a vulnerable area Schedules. Conditions apply. All ages 18+. in the United States to the threat of sea level 703-359-7600 rise. We rank behind only New Orleans in areas that will be inundated by rising seas due to climate change. The Virginia Insti- tute of Marine Sciences released a report on their research demonstrating that storms and the resulting flooding will be more se- vere due to climate change. Other recent Learn a Trade at reports have shown that Virginia’s agricul- Mount Vernon tural industry, as well as our native plant Now hiring part-time/seasonal staff to work and wildlife species, face threats from as historic interpreters at George Washing- changing climates. A report issued this sum- ton’s Gristmill, Distillery, Pioneer Farm & mer showed that Virginia’s corn growers Blacksmith Shop. Help tell the story of George Washington the entrepreneur. Prior stand to lose $5 million annually from cli- interpretive experience preferred. Please con- mate change. tact Steve Bashore, Manager Historic Trades 703-799-6805 or by Martin Tillett e-mail [email protected] Alexandria www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 25 HomeHome && GardenGarden 703-917-6400 Zone 3: • Alexandria Zone 3 Ad Deadline: • Mount Vernon connectionnewspapers.com CONTRACTORS.com Tuesday Noon

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26 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 ❖ 27 ♦ Real Estate ♦ Mortgage ♦ Closing Services ♦ Insurance 703-360-7400 www.weichert.com 8301 Richmond Highway, Alexandria, VA 22309

ALEXANDRIA/MOUNT VERNON $340,000 STARTER HOME EXPANDABLE One level Brick Rambler, corner lot, adjacent to Mount Vernon County Club. Completely updated kitchen w/all new appli- ances, all new windows, fresh paint, 1/2 acre lot. MLS # FX7190704 For additional information contact Joyce at: 703-780-4012 or e-mail: [email protected]. View on Web: www.2hdb.com/joyceclevenger. Dir: From Ft.Belvoir: North on US#1 R Cooper Rd to 8825 on left.

ALEXANDRIA SO $529,900 BIGGER THAN IT APPEARS Brick all around with two level addition on back. Hardwood floors thru main rooms. Dream master suite with huge bedroom, fireplace, luxury bath, walk-in closet and private balcony overlooking large rear lawn with in-ground pool.

ALEXANDRIA SO $609,900 FORMER MODEL LOADED WITH UPGRADES Gourmet kitchen w/granite counters, cherry cabinets & HW floors. Exercise rm w/sauna &shower. MSTR BR w/2 walk-in closets, cathedral ceiling, wet bar, sitting rm w/gas fireplace. MSTR BA w/soaking tub, sep shower,double sink & ceramic tile. Plus much much more. Directions: I95S to exit 166A Newington/FXCo Pky S to US Route 1 (RIchmond Hwy ( R, 1/2 to R Inlet Cove, immed R to Regional Inlet Cove to 7023

ALEXANDRIA $575,000 WITH AU PAIR SUITE Spacious all brick home, hardwood floors, beautifully crafted moldings & details throughout. 3 finished levels, 5 Bedrooms, 4.5 baths. Put Us to The Test ALEXANDRIA $330,000 ❦ Selection ONE-LEVEL LIVING Beautifully maintained, bright sunny home with open ❦ Service floor plan. Perched on large lot with garage. Rose Hill area. 3 Bedrooms, 2 full baths. ❦ Price Come Taste the Difference Two Convenient Alexandria Locations Call for information Open 7 days a week about licensing. Bradlee Belle View 3690J King Street 1600A Belle View Blvd. 703.820.8600 571.384.6880 Day Class begins March 22, 2010 • from 9 am - 3:30 pm www.unwinedva.com Contact: Michele Wilson

28 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ March 4-10, 2010 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com