Page, 5 Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A Connection Newspaper January 23, 2020 Celebrating MLK Day with Music and Essays speech by Dr. Eric Wil- live our lives liams, Curator of the in peace, love, ANational Museum of Af- and justice.” rican American History A quote and Culture, surrounded by mu- from Dr. King sic from six outstanding choirs and — “If I cannot readings of three prize-winning do great local student essays made for an things, I can inspiring tribute to Dr. Martin Obinna do small Luther King on Saturday, Jan. 18, Ekeaqwu things in a at Bethlehem Baptist Church. great way” — The annual event was organized was the theme by Ventures in Community, a coa- of a student lition of about 60 faith communi- essay contest ties and nonprofits that support a for local high hypothermia center and network school stu- on issues related to poverty in the dents. The area. The program was organized winner was by Rev. Abe Smith, Pastor of First Obinna AME Baptist Church. Turner Ekeaqwu of Dr. Williams noted that for the Bumbary Mount Vernon first time in history, humans have Lusk and essay winners: High School, become the agent of our own de- Lee District Supervisor Rodney Lusk (second from left) congratulates the three stu- who wrote struction and said “Brothers and dent essay winners, Turner Bumbary (second place), Obinna Ekeaqwu (first place), “Rev. King sisters, we are all we have. Let’s and Victoria Laffittie (third place). calls on us to keep our eyes open for mo- ments to spread mercy and grace. He Victoria does not ex- Laffittie pect us to walk a million miles. He expects us to walk one. While that mile may seem insig- nificant to us, the effort can change somebody’s life. Combined choirs sing Battle Hymn of the Republic di- Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. rected by Mark Zimmerman, Mt Vernon Unitarian Choir Director. Bethlehem Baptist Church Choir. See MLK Day, Page 4 No Person Too Small By Obinna Ekeagwu retaliation. King recognizes that some things terrupted by the nagging move- our actions.” 11th grade at Mount Vernon Dr. King, however, illustrated to are outside of humans’ control, as ments of the demonic.” However, While King recognizes the con- High School. ordinary citizens that they were “God...guides the destiny of the King excuses neither immoral ac- sequences of negative circum- not too small to create change. universe.” Yet, he calls on us to tion nor moral inaction. stances on one’s life, he believes First Place Essay. MLK Essay Contest MLK challenges us to do good follow God’s “inexorable moral He argues that “we are forever that “[our] personal response is 2020, sponsored by Ventures in Com- whenever we can, no matter the law” in whatever way we can. attempting to find some scapegoat munity See No Person, Page 4 inconvenience. Even if the cause Those who do not believe in a god on which we cast responsibility for ev. Dr. Martin Luther King of a dilemma is out of our control, are still asked to make the world
Jr. changed America by we can improve any situation. a better place. 1/24/20 Requested in home in Requested R Rev. King’s faith energized his Rev. King laments that the good- material.
inspiring the disenfran- chised. activist mindset. In one of his ser- will of modern Christians is a Time-sensitive
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thing that men talk about[, ] but church because, according to MLK, Postage U.S. Crow laws, because blacks feared STD PRSRT that reforms would lead to violent something that men live about.” “man’s quest for the divine is in- www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 ❖ 1 McEnearney Associates has always had one motto in mind... not to be the biggest, but the best. This year marks our 40th year in Alexandria, and we are celebrating our investment in helping to build our town into the thriving community it is today. To learn more about our Associates and our firm, visitwww.WeAreAlexandria.com #WeAreAlexandria
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2 v Mount Vernon Gazette v January 23-29, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Closing All the Loopholes Democrats poised to impose new regulations on high-interest lenders. By Michael Lee Pope Mark Levine (D-45), who introduced The Gazette a bill to regulate open-end lines of over significantly more money than credit. “It’s designed to take every they borrowed in the first place, a key he days of unregulated high-in- single asset they own.” feature of the industry that helped terest lending may be coming to earn the title “predatory.” Ta close in Virginia. Now that HIGH-INTEREST LENDERS have “We want to make sure that the bor- Democrats have seized control been under increasing scrutiny in re- rowers have terms that make sense of the General Assembly, members of the cent years, and campaign-finance dis- and are reasonable because they can’t Legislative Black Caucus say cracking down closures show these companies are negotiate those terms,” said Jennifer on predatory lending is one of their top pri- spreading their money around to Carroll Foy (D-2). “All they know is orities for the 2020 session. Del. Lamont Democrats and Republicans in an ef- that they need the money, and they Bagby (D-74) and Sen. Mamie Locke (D-2) fort to influence the General Assem- need it now.” have introduced a legislative effort they’re bly. During the last election cycle, the Current rules allow for a wide va- calling the Fair Lending Act. The bill would industry gave $1 million in campaign riety of lending. Some are regulated cap all loans at 36 percent and institute a contributions. Car-title lender and some are not. For example, pay- maximum monthly fee of $25. LoanMax was the top contributor, day loans and car-title loans are “All of these lenders make the same loans giving $250,000; online lender Enova Photo by Michael Lee Pope/The Gazette monitored by the State Corporation in Colorado and Ohio and charge one third gave $176,000; open-end-line-of- Campaign-finance records show that in the Commission. But open-end lines of as much as they charge Virginians,” said Jay credit lender Check Into Cash gave last election cycle, LoanMax gave $150,000 to credit and installment loans made Speer, executive director at the Virginia $88,000. Republicans and $100,000 to Democrats. online are not, leading to confusion Poverty Law Center. “So it’s pretty clear they “There’s no question that when it about the scale of the industry and charge the maximum they’re allowed to comes to car-title lenders, that has been con- “Far too often I’m riding into work or into what kind of interest rates they charge. charge and it has nothing at all to do with troversial,” said Bob Denton, professor at session, and I hear the commercials on the That’s why the Fair Lending Act requires all market forces.” Virginia Tech. “Republicans have protected radio knowing that there’s somebody listen- businesses making loans in Virginia get a The current state of Virginia law is a that industry by and large.” ing to that who desperately needs a loan to license, which will allow state regulators to hodgepodge of different approaches for dif- Republicans are no longer in charge, and pay for their electrical bill, to pay a child track their activity. Critics say this creates a ferent loans. Some are regulated and that has created a momentum for reform- care payment, pay a college loan,” said new loophole. capped at 264 percent. Others are totally ing an industry that many lawmakers be- Bagby, who is leading the reform effort in “We have no statute to cover somebody unregulated, so nobody knows how many lieve preys on vulnerable people who are the House. “They are going to be calling offshore,” said Terry Kilgore (R-1). “It’s go- of them are being made or what the inter- desperate for money and don’t fully un- that number that’s on the radio or online to ing to drive a lot of people to the internet est rates are. The Fair Lending Act would derstand the consequences of getting receive that loan not knowing what the and offshore lending.” require all lenders get a Virginia license and caught in a debt trap. One of the key Re- rates are, and not understand what the fees Supporters of the bill say the legislation register with the State Corporation Com- publicans who helped thwart efforts was are associated with that.” has a solution to that problem: the attor- mission, which would track how many loans former Del. Tim Hugo (R-40), who was ney general. are made and many other details about the chairman of a subcommittee that often ONE OF THE key provisions in the Fair “All you do is complain to the attorney transactions. Advocates for reforming the served as graveyard for reform efforts. He Lending Act is that it creates a cap on how general, and you don’t have to pay a single system say the current system takes advan- was one of the four Republican incumbents much these companies can charge in inter- dime,” said Levine. “Sorry Russian company. tage of people who are already in a vulner- unseated last year, giving Democrats a est and fees — no more than 50 percent. Sorry German company. You’re getting none able financial situation. majority in the House and shifting the bal- This is designed to prevent these compa- it back because under Virginia law, the loan “It’s designed to bankrupt them,” said ance of power. nies from bilking consumers into forking is void.” Public Safety specialists from our Major Crimes Bureau’s is asked to contact our Crash Reconstruc- offered and accepted. Damages as a result Attempted Abduction Victim Services Division have been assigned tion Unit at 703-280-0543. of the fire are approximately $37,500. to ensure that the victim is receiving appro- This is the 2nd pedestrian fatality in the in Belle Haven priate resources and assistance.
From Page 1 know the author’s names. All stu- Day” that asked audience mem- teaches us that none of us is too dents who submitted essays re- bers what they would do if they powerless to make a difference.” ceived a gift. could be Dr. King for one day. The three top winners read their The Home School Chorus per- The program ended as always essays from the pulpit to enthusi- formed an inspirational piece that with the combined choirs and au- astic applause. started with a young soloist sing- dience singing the famous aboli- Each received a cash prize. Sec- ing about speaking out with one tionist song “Battle Hymn of the ond place went to Turner Bumbary voice and added singers from the Republic” directed by Mark of Thomas Jefferson High School, choir and the audience in sections Zimmerman, choir director of Mt. and third place to Victoria Laffittie changing the refrain to speaking Vernon Unitarian. of Mt Vernon High School. The out “with a million voices.” Lee District Supervisor Rodney essays were ranked by four mem- The Mount Vernon Unitarian Lusk gave standing ovations at bers of the Ventures in Community Church choir performed a complex several points and met briefly with Mt Vernon Unitarian Church Choir. steering committee, who did not original piece called “King for a the essay winners. No Person Too Small From Page 1 pose what is difficult with what is devil; he is always looking for op- the final determining convenient, we must choose the portunities to spread misery and factor in our lives.” difficult. evil. When we avoid the right deci- When we see the elderly strug- Rev. King calls on us to keep our sion, we must take ownership of gling to carry something, we must eyes open for moments to spread our dereliction. offer to alleviate their burden. mercy and grace. In King’s Letter from a Birming- When we see somebody at lunch He does not expect us to walk a ham Jail, he writes that “the ulti- sitting alone, we must offer them million miles. He expects us to mate tragedy...was not the brutal- company. walk one. While that mile may ity of the bad people, but the si- When we see family members seem insignificant to us, the effort lence of the good people.” We all seized by addiction or sorrow, we can change somebody’s life. consider ourselves “good people,” must offer our support. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. so we should behave like so. When The blind eye we turn to suffer- teaches us that none of us is too we encounter choices that juxta- ing is replaced by the eye of the powerless to make a difference. The Home School Chorus.
4 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mt. Vernon/Wessynton $764,900 3102 Cunningham Drive Gorgeous, newly renovated 4 Bedroom, 3 BA contem- porary home in sought after waterfront community of Wessynton, 1 car garage, new deck, .34 acre lot. Large, spectacular new kitchen with all the bells and whistles. Beautiful new bathrooms. Separate dining room. Living room with fireplace. Large picture windows on back wall overlook private wooded setting. Family Room w/nice wood paneled ceiling. Wessynton amenities include tennis courts, swimming pool, walking paths, and boat ramp on Little Hunting Creek which flows to the Potomac River. Located just a half mile from Mount Vernon Estate and the GW Parkway, it is a mere 10 minutes to Ft. Belvoir, 20 mins to Old Town, and 30 mins to D.C.
Alex/ Randall Estates $659,900 2215 Shiver Dr. Charming 2 level Rambler w/finished, walkout lower COMING SOON! level, backing to a huge yard that reaches out to a rustic, lovely creek & woodland oasis. Nature is at your doorstep! Main level living w/3 bedrooms, 2 updated baths, stunning hdwd floors, 6 panel doors & custom wood blinds compliment the living & dining rooms. An updated kitchen w/granite & SS appliances. Stand at your kitchen sink & soak in the beauty of your views of the bkyd, creek & woods. Down- stairs offers a huge family rm, 3rd full bath, a den, huge storage & workshop area. Plenty of room for a 4th bedroom if needed. Minutes to Old Town, Alex., along the scenic GW PKWY- 15 mins south to Ft. Belvoir. You won’t find a quality home like this 3,000 SF beauty for less money. It’s a bargain!
Photo courtesy of Junior Achievement Alex/Mt. Zephyr Upper $400s 8541 Mt. Zephyr Dr. The Junior Achievement students at Carl Sandburg Middle School in Mount Vernon Great price for this lovely two level solid are learning the concepts of savings, income, budgeting, investing and the pros and all-brick home with garage on 1/3 acre in cons of debit and credit. Mt. Vernon community. 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths. Renovated eat-in kitchen, spacious and open, with sliding glass doors to private backyard. Charming front living room with ample windows, and wood burning fireplace with white, colonial The ABCs of Kids and Money style mantel. Spacious lower level has finished family room w/ 2nd fireplace and a bonus workroom. Conveniently located near Ft. Belvoir (10 mins), GW Parkway and Potomac River, Old Town Alexandria, Pentagon, and D.C. habits, and even more critically, the decision-mak- Teaching children how ing process children develop early on will influence Alex/Riverside Estates $2,800 8506 Wagon Wheel Road the way they approach financial matters throughout Beautifully remodeled 4BR, 3BA Split to budget, save and their lives,” he said. COMINGFOR SOON RENT – Kitchen with granite, SS & ceramic Students should be taught to make choices with the tile floor opens to the living and dining manage finances. rooms– hardwood floors on main level, 6 amount of money they have, suggests Senft. “It’s im- panel doors – replacement double pane portant to teach children to distinguish between what windows-lower level with large family By Marilyn Campbell you need versus what you want,” she said. “It’s impor- room and wood burning fireplace with large 3rd and 4th bedrooms and 3rd The Connection full bath- walkout to large fenced bkyd – deck overlooks bkyd- Carport--Close tant to teach children of all ages about money. It’s never to Ft. Belvoir- Walk to elementary, high school and Mt. Vernon Estate – Great too soon to talk about the importance of savings.” commute along GW Pkwy to Old Town, - Owner is Realtor. n an age when paying one’s mortgage can be “It’s important because in any modern society, the done from a smartphone, money smarts is an one thing that people do almost every day is make Alex $2,800 important part of navigating life. From saving money decisions, so knowing how to do it well is 3704 Nalls Road I Totally updated 4BR, 3BA Split to buy the latest video game to learning how something that is going to be useful to every single COMINGFOR SOON RENT level on fenced .48 acre lot – to budget an allowance, financial literacy is one of one of us,” added Laura Levine, president and CEO kitchen with new granite counters and new cortex flooring – newly the most important lessons for children, say finan- of the Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Lit- installed hardwood floors on main cial experts. eracy. “Knowing how to manage money is something level, interior freshly painted, all “It’s very important to teach tweens and teens that all consumers need to do so it’s important that 3 baths updated – family room LL with new cortex flooring and wood about money,” said said Steve Pilloff, Ph.D., Associ- we teach that to our kids.” burning fireplace, exterior freshly ate Professor in the School of Business at George In fact, learning to manage a budget is one of the painted-new high efficiency double pane windows throughout --walk out Mason University. “For many kids, this is the first basic skills that Levine encourages parents to teach. basement-Carport--Walk to Mt. Vernon High School – minutes to Ft. Bel- time they are making independent financial deci- “Years ago, finance was basic, but today there are voir-commute along GW Pkwy to Old Town – Owner is Realtor. sions, such as whether to save a birthday gift or spend so many options and financial decisions that have to Alex/Engleside $1,300,000 it on a video game. “ be made,” she said. “Money is more self-directed than 8734 Lukens Lane In fact, Patti Senft, Manager of Program Engage- ever before. Finances are more complicated than ever 4.128 acres zones R-2 for sale. There are 2 lots: 4/0 acres w/ ment at Junior Achievement of Greater Washington before, so we need skills to manage it.” UNDER CONTRACT house (Tax Map 1101 01 0043) in Fairfax, Virginia says that one of her organization’s When it comes to managing money, one of the best and .128 acre vacant land (1101 goals is to teach financial literacy to children. “Jun- ways to teach is leading by example, says Levine. 01 0043A). House on Property sold “AS IS” and NO ACCESS ior Achievement has determined that teaching the “Like with anything else, kids learn by what they see given or allowed. Land Value concepts of savings, income, budgeting, investing and at home,” she said. “Even parents who haven’t made only. Water, sewer, gas, electrici- the pros and cons of debit and credit should begin the best financial decisions in the past can resolve to ty available. This land is adjacent with middle school students in 7th and 8th grade,” do it now in the New Year.” to the houses on Halley Farm Ct. which were built in the 2010-2011 time frame. she said. While some parents might find starting a dialog “The knowledge that the students learn through daunting, it’s vital that parents have those conversa- the Junior Achievement gives students the skills they tions with their children, said Levine. Thinking of selling your home in 2020!! need to manage their expenses and budget wisely “Talk to your kids about money,” she said. “It’s Give Rex Reiley a call – 703-409-4784 for a successful future,” she said. important to distinguish between talk and teach. Par- Helping children set financial goals, delay gratifi- ents who don’t know about money can freak out cation, earn money and save it toward achieving when they’re asked to teach their children about those goals is one of the first steps that parents can money. Instead, talk to them and say, ‘Let’s learn take to teach smart money practices, said Pilloff. “The about this together.’” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 ❖ 5 Opinion
Why I Support Repeal of So-called ‘Right-to-Work’ www.MountVernonGazette.com @MtVernonGazette By Del. Paul Krizek job.” This is in the South worried that if unions income inequality is the decline in An independent, locally owned weekly (Mount Vernon), not the case at brought working class whites and union membership. Princeton was newspaper delivered VHDC Labor Liaison all. What blacks together, Jim Crow-era laws able to study the effects of union to homes and businesses. Published by “right-to- would be upended. The right-to- membership while controlling for Local Media Connection LLC s a nation, this week on work” means work movement spread through- variables such as education, skill, January 20th, we cel- is that employ- out the south reaching Virginia in and race. What the study found is 1606 King Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314 Aebrated Dr. Martin ees cannot be 1947 where it was enacted under that on average over the last 80 Luther King Jr. Day. Dr. compelled to then Governor Bill Tuck. Governor years, union workers make around Free digital edition delivered to Martin Luther King Jr. stated so pay union Tuck hated unions and loathed 15-20 percent more than non- your email box. Go to connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe eloquently in 1961, “We must Krizek dues, but can racial integration. When in 1946 union workers in the same field. guard against being fooled by false still access the the Virginia IBEW workers threat- Indeed, a 2018 analysis from the NEWS DEPARTMENT: slogans, such as ‘right to work.’ It benefits of union representation ened to strike for better wages, Economic Policy Institute found [email protected] is a law to rob us of our civil rights without paying for them. In other Tuck referred to the union’s rep- that the hourly wage of men in and job rights.” words, employees in unionized resentatives as “evil leadership.” In right-to-work states is $18.25, Jean Card Production Editor When I first ran for Delegate to workplaces are banned from ne- response to striking coal miners in compared with $20.78 in non- [email protected] represent the community I grew gotiating contracts which require 1948, Tucked called unions “a de- right-to-work states, a difference up in here in Mount Vernon, in all members who benefit from the plorable form of gangsterism that of nearly 14 percent. The pattern Andrea Worker Contributing Writer what is the 44th district, one of the collectively bargained agreement will not be tolerated in Virginia.” of lower wages is even more pro- [email protected] first questions I was asked was my to contribute to the costs of union He was also a signatory to the nounced for women and people of position on the fact that Virginia representation. “Southern Manifesto” which op- color. Right-to-work laws have a Jeanne Theismann [email protected] is a “right-to-work” state. I knew There are plenty of occupations, posed racial integration of public disproportionate impact on mi- @TheismannMedia it was one of those slogans that like in law, for example, where you places; and later, when he was a norities because of their greater Dr. King warned us about and that are required to pay dues to be able Congressman he was vehemently rates of work in unionized indus- ADVERTISING: it was an anti-labor construct. But, to practice. This is not unusual. To against the Civil Rights Act of tries. Eliminating right-to-work in For advertising information [email protected] I didn’t know its racist beginnings be clear, right-to-work is really 1965. Virginia is a matter of economic 703-778-9431 or how it has exacerbated income about limiting unionization and Recent studies demonstrate the and racial justice. We now have inequality in our country. the power of working people. devastating impact of right-to- the opportunity to address this Debbie Funk Display Advertising/National Sales Indeed, right-to-work is one of Many now call it the “right to work work laws on wages. A outdated and racist law that is out 703-778-9444 st the most misunderstood phrases for less” which is closer to the groundbreaking study from of step with the values of a 21 [email protected] ever coined. Many people think truth. Princeton University argues one of century Virginia. It’s time to repeal Julie Ferrill “right-to-work” means “right to a In the 1930s, white supremacists the biggest factors in increasing it. I will be voting for HB 153. Real Estate, 703-927-1364 [email protected]
Helen Walutes Virginia Legislature Moves Quickly on Display Advertising, 703-778-9410 [email protected]
David Griffin Equal Rights, Gun Violence Prevention Marketing Assistant 703-778-9431 By Sen. Scott Surovell three of which also applied to firearms transfers enforcement investigation and in- [email protected] the full Senate with some exceptions, but several dividuals must be given a chance Classified & Employment he second week of the passed later in members of our caucus were con- to voluntarily surrender their Advertising T General Assembly Ses- the week and cerned we would unintentionally weapons before law enforcement 703-778-9431 sion put us at the center one of which criminalize some hunting activities can involuntarily seize them. The of American history. We moved was continued so we removed that provision. law also provides for a second Publisher several long-delayed, legislative for final vote The Senate also approved my hearing for the person to contest Jerry Vernon 703-549-0004 priorities. this Tuesday. bill to give local governments the allegation after full discovery. [email protected] On Wednesday, both the Senate The Senate more authority over firearms and I expect the Senate to pass this bill and the House passed resolutions passed legisla- combined it with four other bills. soon. The Agriculture and Natu- Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm to ratify the Equal Rights Amend- tion reinstating Virginia’s one The final bill would allow local ral Resources Committee passed [email protected] ment to make Virginia the 38th and handgun per month law. This be- governments to prohibit firearms my legislation prohibiting duck @MaryKimm final state to ratify the Constitu- came law in 1993 and Virginia in public buildings, public parks hunting blinds on Little Hunting Art/Design: tional amendment. The Senate has became the primary source for and at locally-permitted events if Creek, Great Hunting Creek and Laurence Foong, John Heinly, passed the resolution at least six most guns confiscated from crimi- restrictions are properly posted. Dogue Creek. My bill to create a Ali Khaligh times in past years, but the House nal activity in New York City. The This was a major priority for me Public Defender’s Office in Prince Production Manager: Geovani Flores of Delegates has never approved legislature repealed it in 2012 af- after the violent events in William County passed out of com- it. Ratification will hopefully bring ter a sustained campaign by the Charlottesville and men carrying mittee unanimously. CIRCULATION equal rights to 160 million women National Rifle Association. Under AR-15 rifles at the Alexandria The Senate Health and Educa- Circulation Manager: in America and attention will now the current bill, people who pos- Farmers Market “to educate the tion Committee approved my bill Ann Oliver shift to the U. S. Congress. sess Virginia concealed weapons public about their Second Amend- to prohibit providing “conversion [email protected] Congress can abolish or extend permits would be exempt from the ment rights.” Virginia already au- therapy” to minors, along with my A Connection Newspaper the 1982 ratification deadline they law. thorizes localities to regulate fire- bill to eliminate the terms “hus- previously set. I was proud to carry We also passed legislation re- arms in some circumstances, so I band” and “wife” from our divorce this legislation every year since quiring the seller of all firearms to did not see this as a major exten- law to be replaced with the word 2012 and even during years when undergo a criminal background sion of existing law. “spouse.” few people were paying attention. check. Today, people making all The Judiciary Committee passed I have posted my 2020 Constitu- Virginia is finally on the right side purchases from federally-licensed so-called “red flag” legislation. The ent Survey online at http:// of history for the first time in about firearm dealers must undergo bill that the Senate will vote on scottsurovell.org/2020-constitu- 150 years. these checks, but individuals who on Thursday will allow a magis- ent-survey/. Please complete it so On Monday, the Senate Judi- are unable to purchase or possess trate to enter an order requiring I can hear from you about impor- ciary Committee, on which I serve, firearms, such as felons or people people to surrender their guns if tant issues this session, my legis- had its first meeting and we im- convicted of domestic assault can it is shown that they are a threat lation or anything else you would mediately addressed firearm vio- illegally purchase firearms by pur- to themselves or other persons like to communicate. lence prevention. We considered, chasing them from private indi- because of their firearms. No or- You can also reach me at modified and passed four bills, viduals. The original legislation der can be issued without a law [email protected]. 6 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Opinion Year of the Woman By Supervisor Dan Storck (D-Mt Vernon District)
appy HNew Year and wel-come to 2020! TEAM MVD (Mount Vernon Dis- trict) and I are Supervisor designating Dan Storck this year the “Year of the Woman.” Here in the Mount Vernon District, we are cel- ebrating the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote and the pas- sage of the 19th Amendment with the opening of the Lucy Burns Museum at the Workhouse Arts Center and the Turning Point Suf- fragists Memorial at Occoquan Regional Park. At the state level, the Virginia General Assembly ap- pointed Del. Eileen Filler-Corn as the first female leader of the House of Delegates in 400 years and just became the 38th state to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). As a result, the Year of the Woman has started off strong! We Can Do It! - as Rosie the Riveter showed us. Strong women throughout his- tory have shown us the power of perseverance and we will explore and celebrate this throughout the year. The Lucy Burns Museum cel- ebrating the suffragists and 100 years of prison history will open on Jan. 25, with the grand open- ing on May 9. In February, we will celebrate African American His- tory month. One of the seldom told stories of the women’s suffragist move- ment is of the African American women also who picketed the White House. March will bring Women’s History month and we will see how the US Congress will act on ratifying the ERA. Then, on Aug. 26, we will dedicate the Turn- ing Point Suffragist Memorial. And, this is just a sampling of what the Year of the Woman will look like. The Mount Vernon District is fortunate to be home to so much storied history and we look for- ward to celebrating it throughout the year. Across the country, this major milestone of our democracy will be celebrated by female-fo- cused commemorations and many visitors will come to see these na- tional recognitions happening right here in our backyard. To learn more about all of this See Year of the, Page 9 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 ❖ 7 Essays Hate Cannot Drive Out Hate Turner Bumbary Through my involvement in student government, Thomas Jefferson High School peer mentorship programs, and educational policy I have already seen myself begin to implement small Second Place Essay. MLK Essay Contest 2020, sponsored fragments of my goal. But with your support, I know by Ventures in Community we can give all students the opportunity they deserve. ate cannot drive out hate, only love can Although MLK is no longer here, his message does “ do that.” These words, spoken by Mar- not have to die. I urge YOU to become the change H you wish to see in the world by reshaping your com- tin Luther King Jr. during his acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize, helped give this country a munities through compassion and love. Martin Luther glimmer of hope through the injustices of segrega- King Jr. once said, “The ultimate measure of a man is tion, oppression, and racism. not where he stands in moments of comfort and con- His message advocates for people to take small venience, but where he stands at times of challenge actions of justice to rid their communities of hate. and controversy.” I recently came to understand the meaning of In our lives, we constantly encounter prejudice and SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES Martin Luther King’s words after the school shoot- injustices, but we must have the courage to use our ing at Stoneman Douglass High School. Rather than inner light and faith in the lord to drive out the dark- ENTERTAINING. INFORMATIVE. ECLECTIC. INSIGHTFUL. fostering hate, our community rallied around one ness. As Dr. King said, “Even if we cannot do great another with love. It felt like we had the support of things, we can do small things in a great way.” Martin Luther King on our side, as we walked out of I encourage all of you to reach out to members of class to protest our nation’s epidemic of gun vio- your community and to become the light that guides lence and mass shootings. Our school walkout par- them. Our actions do not have to be large and gran- The Science of Sleep alleled the civil rights marches Martin Luther King diose, but rather a simple act of kindness can go a with WebMD’s John Whyte organized more than a half-century ago, showing long way. his mission still resonates with some people today. For example, if you were to help three people, and In collaboration with WebMD My greatest goal in life is to use my future posi- those three people each helped three more, by ten tions of leadership and expertise to support other cycles you would have served more than 50,000 students in my community. For example, I am a stu- people. Wednesday, January 29, 2020 dent mentor for the LIFE Program, which is an or- Although I am proud of all the progress Martin ganization that teaches students STEM through Luther King Jr. made, it is our duty to continue his 6:45 p.m. hands-on activities. Our program serves aspiring stu- mission and to fight against new issues that plague dents at local Title I schools and hopes to strengthen our country. S. Dillon Ripley Center the community by mitigating the education and Please join me in my mission to create change and achievement gaps. reshape our communities. 1100 Jefferson Drive SW, Washington, DC 20560 Metro: Smithsonian (Mall exit)
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8 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Essays ‘I Cannot Do Great Things, I Can Do Small Things in a Great Way’ By Victoria Laffittie A prime example of a small thing Mt. Vernon High School was when Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a public bus to Third Place Essay. MLK Essay Contest a white man. Rosa Parks may have 2020, sponsored by Ventures in Com- munity felt that what she did was small, but it resulted in a great thing! s we all know, Dr. Martin When I look at some of the Luther King Jr. has many things I have done such as volun- A teering at the church’s food bank, great quotes, but the quote, “If I cannot do great things, bringing joy to the elderly at the I can do small things in a great nursing home, and providing tu- way,” is one of his greatest. toring to my peers, all seem small. In my research on Dr. Martin But I have realized that although Luther King Jr., I was curious to they may be small, I did them all find out what exactly motivated in a great way. this particular quote. I learned that To me this quote also means: Do most, if not all, of Dr. King’s quotes not be discouraged if you don’t were related to the civil rights accomplish your biggest goal at movement. first. Start by doing small steps The goal of the civil rights move- that can help lead you toward your ment was to achieve one great idea major goal. and that was equal rights for all. I know that I will eventually Also I learned that equality would reach my goal step by step no not have been achieved without matter how small the steps are, I smaller individual contributions will keep working toward it. Do- from prominent leaders and lesser ing small things can go a long way. known individuals. Not many people have or will During the Civil Rights era, make a large impact on the world black people were no longer but if we all at least do what we slaves, but were still treated un- can, no matter how small it is and fairly. This type of treatment it is a positive step it’s a “small” mainly occurred in the southern step in the right direction. states. I have learned more about Dr. Inequality was often seen on Martin Luther King Jr.’s tremen- signs and in different facilities. dous contributions to our nation Often you would see “For Whites” and how we all have benefited or “For Colored” signs on things from his legacy. like water fountains, restrooms, or We all should make the little or in segregated schools and restau- small things we do matter as much rants. as the big things. With that said, I I believe that Dr. King’s passion cannot imagine Dr. Martin Luther and desire for change for equality King Jr., doing small things, only is what sparked this great quote. great things!
Year of the Woman From Page 7 lucky, you may even meet a and our community, join me Suffragist while you are there. for the 33rd Annual Mount You should all be receiving our Vernon District Town Meeting annual Advisor mailer in the on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2020, from coming days. I would love to 7:45 a.m. – noon at Mount hear if you receive it and your Vernon High School. Have your suggestions to make it better. questions answered, learn Contact our office with your about issues important to you, feedback at connect with County agencies [email protected] and service providers and or 703-780-7518. mingle with your neighbors. Welcome to the new decade! The highlight of the morning Bring it on 2020! will be taking a “virtual flying tour” of the District and meet- Lucy Burns Museum Opening Video: https://youtu.be/ ing your new County Board smYSMv05NJ4 Chairman Jeff McKay. If you’re
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 ❖ 9 Entertainment 3 Restaurants and Cafes Opening in the New Year
By Hope Nelson nally slated to open by the end of January, and Adam Patterson must wait until Febru- executive chef Will Artley will take control Sisters is now eyeing a March opening. Sis- ary to have their day in the spotlight. This of the kitchen. At first blush, the menu will new year naturally leads to new ters Thai is known for its cozy “living room” delay pushes Mount Purrnon’s scheduled remain solidly in the “regional Italian” restaurants on the horizon, and feel, making customers right at opening back to late March or early camp, offering up pizzas, Italian cocktails AAlexandria has new arrivals com- home among cute tables and entic- APPETITE April, Patterson said. Once it’s up and “rustic entrees,” per the restaurant’s ing in droves. From a beloved ing décor. Its food, too, is at once and running, the café will serve social media. But the rooftop bar? That will regional Thai eatery to a new take on a traditional and innovative Thai cui- food and drink – including wine – be a new feature of the redesigned space, former familiar restaurant to the city’s first sine, complete with rich curries and plenty and will, as the concept implies, have adopt- and by the looks of the construction hustle cat café, the first few months of 2020 look of takes on Thai street food as well. able cats in residence waiting for perma- and bustle taking place around the restau- to be exciting indeed. Here are three open- nent homes. rant as of late, the renovations throughout ings to look forward to in the months to Mount Purrnon Cat Café will be relatively extensive too. Currently, come. and Wine Bar, 109 S. Alfred St. Hank & Mitzi’s, Hank & Mitzi’s is pinpointing an “early Alexandria’s first cat café continues its 600 Montgomery St. 2020” reopening. Sisters Thai, 530 First St. march toward a grand opening. The café, The former Hank’s Pasta Bar is promis- The newest outpost of Sisters Thai, which which will call 109 S. Alfred Street home, ing a new look and attitude when Hank & Hope Nelson is the author of “Classic Restau- currently calls two locations in the Mosaic is awaiting its permit hearing; the hearing Mitzi’s opens in the space at 600 Montgom- rants of Alexandria” and owns the Kitchen Recessionista blog, located at District and Fairfax home, is taking shape that was scheduled for January was can- ery Street. Restaurateur Jamie Leeds will www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her any time at 530 First Street in North Old Town. Origi- celed due to snow, so owners Kristin Cowan remain at the helm of the operation, while at [email protected]. Calendar
Submit entertainment announce- ”Repetitions.” Now thru Feb. 9. At letters, and diaries, Andrea Tracey, ments at Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery, Torpedo Executive Director of the Carlyle www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- Factory Art Center, Studio 29, 105 House, explores the histories of the endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. North Union Street, Alexandria. nurses, doctors, stewards, soldiers Photos/artwork encouraged. Repeated patterns, repeated themes, and Alexandria residents who found repeated textures and repeated colors themselves at the Carlyle House all lead to interesting and exciting property and the Mansion House ONGOING pieces. Themed work will be eligible Hotel in what was known as the ”Hold On! Demitasse to for recognition by the jurors. Non- Mansion House Hospital during the Tumblers.” Now thru Feb. 2. At themed work will also be exhibited. Civil War. Discover how both the Scope Gallery at Torpedo Factory, Visit the website: Carlyle House and the Hotel 105 North Union Street, Studio 19, www.Potomacfiberartsgallery.com buildings were utilized during this Alexandria. Your morning coffee will “The King’s Shadow.” Now thru April tumultuous time in Alexandria and be all the more pleasurable in an 19. 8 p.m. At The Lab at the nation’s history. Tickets $15 or artistic, individually crafted work Convergence, 1819 N. Quaker Lane, $10 Athenaeum Members, Friends of from a local (DMV) artist. Choices Alexandria. In this season, Fort Ward, or Friends of Carlyle include a cup depicting elements of Shakespeare’s Histories: “The King’s House. Visit the website: nvfaa.org the natural world by Shirley Gromen Shadow” runs January 2nd - April 19th, 2020; “Richard the Second” or a mug inspired by the color of the FRIDAY/JAN. 24 ocean by Klaudia Levin. Left-handed? runs January 2 - April 18, 2020; Hiromi Minemura has designed a “Henry the Fourth, Part 1” runs Garden Talk: Easy Houseplants to mug just for lefties, some January 30 - April 18, 2020; “Henry Grow. 1:30-2:30 p.m. At Green the Fourth, Part 2” runs February 13 Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring accompanied with a saucer and Photo by Howard Soroos/The Gazette spoon. Tea time in the afternoon? - April 19, 2020; and “Henry the Road, Alexandria. (Adults) No need Use Elizabeth Greene’s lidded tea Fifth” runs March 12 - April 19, The cast of ACCT’s production of Disney’s “Frozen Jr.” to wait for spring to get your hands mug to keep the tea from spilling on 2020. These plays follow the troubled (from left to right): Bill Barnes (Hans), Mary Margaret back in the soil. You can enjoy the way back to your desk. Sushi for passing of the English crown from beautiful flowering and foliage plants carry-out? Accompany the meal with the philosopher King Richard II, to Bargery (Anna), Patricia Villarroel Navaez (Elsa), Andrew right now, inside your home. Ana Cavalanti’s beautifully embossed the conqueror King Henry IV, to his Tankersley (Sven), Bret Medley (Kristoff), and Jack St. Extension master gardeners provide set of saki bottle and saki cups. Visit rogue son, Prince Hal. With his Pierre (Olaf). you with all the know-how you will www.scopegallery.org, father’s deeds looming over him, Hal need to be successful. $10 per www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/ indulges in a reckless adolescence person. Register online at scope. that tarnishes his reputation. But “Frozen Jr.” www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ parktakes (code F36.A05D) or call Now thru Jan. 26, At Aldersgate Church Community Theater (ACCT), 1301 Green Spring Gardens at 703-642- Collingwood Road, Alexandria. A story of true love and acceptance between sis- 5173. ters, the show expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. Show times are Friday, Jan. 24 at SATURDAY/JAN. 25 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 25 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Jan. 26 at 2 Innovation Day Workshop. 8 a.m. p.m. Visit the website: https://acctonline.org/ to 3:30 p.m. At USPTO’s Madison Building, 600 Dulany Street, when the time comes to rule, Hal Washington Library, 6614 Fort Hunt Alexandria. The National Inventors must take control of how history will Road, Alexandria. Mount Vernon Hall of Fame and the United States remember him, unite his country, Regional Historical Society presents: Patent and Trademark Office invite and become the legendary King “The Demographic History of the local teachers and school district Henry V. Tickets are $35. Contact Mount Vernon Area: 1940-2010.” officials to attend an “Innovation [email protected] or The U.S. Census has been conducted Day” professional development www.bravespiritstheatre.com. every 10 years since 1790 and this workshop focused on inquiry-based year they will participate in the 24th learning and invention education. decennial census. Around 1940, the Highlights designed to raise JAN. 15 TO DEC. 9, 2020 Mount Vernon area began to evolve awareness of the importance of early The Alexandria All City High School Art Exhibition hosted Life Drawing Sessions. At Del Ray from predominantly rural to exposure to innovation education Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., suburban. Using color graphics, this and invention, include hands-on by the Convergence Arts Initiative returns Feb. 7 – March Alexandria. Looking for a chance to presentation will reveal interesting sessions where attendees explore 28. hone your figure drawing skills? Del information regarding the NIHF’s Camp Invention pedagogy Ray Artisans offers a range of open characteristics and origins of the first hand, gaining access to life drawing sessions for just this people living in the community. They instructional strategies that promote Student Art Exhibit purpose. Just drop in for the session will show trends in population an innovative and creativity-based classroom. To register for this free Feb. 7 to March 28, At the Gallery at Convergence, 1801 N. Quaker Lane, Alex- and bring your supplies to draw or growth, labor force, housing status workshop, email Mike Sandridge at andria. The Alexandria All City High School Art Exhibition hosted by the paint the live models. Fee ranges and educational levels over the last from $8-$12. All skill levels are 70 years with specific details from [email protected]. Visit Convergence Arts Initiative returns Feb. 7 – March 28 for its fifth year. 2020’s ex- welcome. Visit DelRayArtisans.org/ 1940 on four communities in the Mt. invent.org/educators/camp- perience will feature over 90 Alexandria high school students representing six high life-drawing Vernon area: Belle Haven, New invention. schools including public, private, and independent spanning over 10 different Alexandria, Gum Springs and Watercolor Workshop: mediums of art. Returning for 2020’s collaborative event are students from Bishop Springbank. Sketchbook Journal. 9:30 a.m.- Ireton, Episcopal High School, T.C. Williams, St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School, THURSDAY/JAN. 23 Civil War at Carlyle House. 7 p.m. 3:30 p.m. At Green Spring Gardens, Commonwealth Academy, and The Howard Gardner School. Mount Vernon Historical At The Athenaeum, 201 Prince Artists Reception: Friday, February 21st 2020. 7 – 9 p.m. Presentation. 7-9 p.m. At Martha Street, Alexandria. Through images, See Calendar, Page 11 10 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment Thank you for choosing Le Refuge
From Page 10 as your restaurant for the past 4603 Green Spring Road, decades. We look forward to Alexandria./(16-Adult) Learn to bind your own sketchbook or journal serving you in 2020! using watercolor paper and other papers. Prepare and decorate pages with collages, paints, stamps and stencils. Each book will be unique and a reflection of you. $94 per person (plus a supply fee of $15 payable to instructor that includes everything you will need for this class)./Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ parktakes (code C65.8564) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703-642- 5173. Tasting Program: Burns Night Scotch Tasting. 4-6 p.m. At Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring • Split Pea Soup with Road, Alexandria./(21-Adult) The Yale Whiffepoofs will perform on Friday, Feb. 7 at the Celebrate Scotland’s national poet, George Washington Masonic National Memorial. Smoked Sausage Robert Burns, with a special Scotch whisky tasting. Learn about • Asparagus with Scotland’s water of life and enjoy Yale Wiffenpoofs Perform samples from each Scotch-producing Fresh Smoked Trout region. Discover Burns Night supper Friday/Feb., 7:30 p.m. At George Washington Masonic National Memorial, 101 traditions and raise a glass to Callahan Drive, Alexandria. The Alexandria Harmonizers present the Yale • Beef Wellington Scotland’s favorite dish: the haggis! Whiffenpoofs. The group, now with women, is the world’s oldest collegiate a • Rack of Lamb Delicious Scottish accompaniments cappella ensemble and celebrated for its excellence. The award-winning Harmo- will be served./$45 per person. nizer chorus, now in its 72nd year, will also perform. Cost is $30. Visit the website: • Bouillabaisse Register online at www.harmonizers.org www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ • Dover Sole parktakes (code A1A.B1F0) or call person in addition to the dinner & Taco and Yunnan by Potomac Green Spring Gardens at 703-642- specials. Brunch lovers can enjoy Noodle House. Restaurants with • Cassoulet 5173. brunch menus for $15 or $22 per brunch menus include Café 44, person at more than a dozen Clyde’s at Mark Center, Sonoma • Frog Legs NOW THRU JAN. 26 restaurants. New participants include Cellar and Vaso’s Mediterranean Alexandria Winter Restaurant Augie’s Mussel House & Beer Garden, Bistro. Guests will find a book of Week. To be held in neighborhoods The Study at Morrison House, Rus Uz menus on throughout Alexandria, including Old – Alexandria and Mai Thai. Returning www.AlexandriaRestaurantWeek.com. Town, Del Ray, Carlyle and participants include Columbia Eisenhower, and the West End. For Firehouse, Del Ray Café, Jackson 20, SUNDAY, JAN. 26 127 N. Washington St., Alexandria • 703-548-4661 10 days and two weekends, 70 The Majestic, Sunday In Saigon, Winter Lecture: Bunny Mellon’s restaurants in Alexandria, will offer a Theismann’s Restaurant and Urbano Oak Spring Gardens. 1:30-2:30 Smoke-Free Restaurant $35 three-course dinner for one. 116. Restaurants with lunch offerings p.m. At Green Spring Gardens, 4603 www.lerefugealexandria.com Some restaurants will also offer include Bastille Brasserie & Bar, Green Spring Road, Alexandria./ lunch menus at $15 or $22 per Hummingbird, Mason Social, Tequila See Calendar, Page 12
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 ❖ 11 Entertainment A Few Homicides and Some Music since the plot is revealed early in LTA Stages ”A the play that all my characters will be murdered!” he said. Gentleman’s PhotoS by Matt Liptak/The Connection Kristen Jepperson is playing the role of Miss Shingle. “She is actu- Guide to Love ally the one who brings to Monty the possibility that he could be Earl and Murder”. of Highhurst, if only there weren’t By Steve Hibbard eight other pesky relatives stand- The Gazette ing in his way. And there is a nice little twist at the end that I won’t he Little Theatre of Al- give away here, guess you’ll have exandria (LTA) is pre- to come see it for yourself!” Tsenting “A Gentleman’s Audrey Baker is in the ensemble Guide to Love and and plays several characters Murder” from now through Feb. 8, Chuck Dluhy as Lord throughout the show (mourner, 2020. The story centers on a dis- Adalbert D’Ysquith in LTA’s maid, philanthropist, bridesmaid, tant heir to a family fortune who Drew Goins as Monty and Kristen Jepperson as Miss production of “A and more!) “My largest role is Miss sets out to speed up the line of Shingle in LTA’s production of “A Gentleman’s Guide to Gentleman’s Guide to Love Evangeline Barley, a Florodora succession by using a great deal Love and Murder.” and Murder.” chorus girl who has a secret fling of charm … and a dash of murder. with Asquith D’Ysquith. She is a This Tony Award-winning musical behaving badly.” to hate her. Her sense of entitle- lievable world. I hope they walk ditsy, giggly character who runs off comedy is a murderous romp filled Producer Mary Beth Smith ment and infallibility is ultimately away with a smile and a tune in to a remote location until her and with beautiful music, non-stop Toomey said: “I am producing ‘A her downfall. She’s laughable, yet their heads!” Asquith D’Ysquith drown while ice laughs and show-stopping perfor- Gentleman’s Guide to Love and relatable on some level. I think Jordan Peyer is playing Man 1, skating on a frozen lake (that mances. The show is based on the Murder’ because I fell in love with that’s true of all the characters in which consists of multiple roles Monty cuts a hole in, killing them). book and lyrics by Robert L. Freed- the show when I saw it at The this show,” she said. including small-town farmer Tom The scene is quite fun — from the man with music and lyrics by Kennedy Center. The quick-paced She added: “I think speaking Copley and mortician Dr. flirting, giggling, skating, to their Steven Lutvak. comedy intrigued me as well as the with a British accent has been Pettibone. He said: “’Gentleman’s dramatic death,” she said. Director Frank D. Shutts II said premise. Also, working again with more of a challenge than any of Guide’ has a large cast of charac- She added: “In addition to hav- when he first saw this production my fellow WATCH and LTA award- us anticipated! You’d be surprised ters played by a comparatively ing a good laugh and humming on Broadway in 2014, he knew winning team of Frank D. Shutts how many ways you can pro- small number of actors, so the along to some catchy live theater/ this musical was the perfect fit for II, Director; Christopher A. nounce the letter ‘A’. We have a major challenge for me has been music, I hope the audience sees the LTA and its audience. “It’s fun, Gil- Tomasino, Music Director; and dialect coach who has been bound- stepping into the shoes of each wit and irony of the show. ‘GGLAM’ bert-and-Sullivanesque style, so- Stefan Sittig, Choreographer, is lessly patient with us.” character both convincingly and in makes fun of the upper class in a phisticated wit, and who does it great! We have an outstanding cast Allison Meyer plays the role of rapid succession.” way that makes you fall in love with and how plot are types of shows and crew working on this complex Woman 1, which consists of many Chuck Dluhy is playing nine dif- a murderer — it takes the white our audiences like. ‘A Gentleman’s show. I want the audience to characters. “I play the Tour Guide, ferent roles which are all members male privilege to a whole new level.” Guide to Love and Murder’ offer laugh, enjoy the show and be en- the Pub Owner’s Wife, Mrs. of the D’Ysquith family — an aris- LTA is presenting “A Gentleman’s all in one nice package!” said tertained.” Pebworth, Phoebe’s Maid, a News- tocratic clan in Edwardian En- Guide to Love and Murder” from Shutts, who is now in his 30th year Katie Weigl plays the role of boy, Mrs. Pebworth, Selina Chard, gland. “They include men, now through Feb. 8, 2020. Show of directing for LTA. Sibella, one of the love interests and many more,” she said. women, young and old such as an times are Wednesdays through Sat- He added: “This play is offered for Monty (played by the charm- As far as audience takeaways, elderly inebriated clergyman, a urdays at 8 p.m.; Sundays at 3 p.m. up for pure fun and enjoyment. I ing Drew Goins). “Sibella is ego- she added: “I hope audiences have muscular health nut, a closeted Tickets are $29-$34. The venue is hope the audience appreciates its centric, superficial and vain, yet so a great time! This musical is witty, country squire, a benefactress ‘of located at 600 Wolfe Street, Alex- almost comedy of manners humor blissfully unaware of her own has beautiful music, and it really a certain age,’ and a flamboyantly andria, VA. Visit the website: and story-telling: good people faults that you can’t bring yourself transports audiences to an unbe- bad actress. This is not a spoiler www.thelittletheatre.com. Calendar
From Page 11 7- 8 p.m. At Charles E. Beatley Jr. your own. Ages 16 and up. Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Multi-Level Remodeled Home Central Library, 5005 Duke Street, Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria. Tour. 12-4 p.m. At 6837 Corder (Adults) Rachel “BunnyÓ Mellon was THURSDAY/JAN. 30 a gardener, artist and icon. She Alexandria. Enjoy a special Selection of over 20,000 gently used Lane, Lorton. Learn how your created countless gardens for famous presentation of Fannie Lou Hamer: Chamber Reception. 6-9 p.m. At children’s books, fiction, history, neighbors are modifying their homes friends and family, including the White “I’m sick and tired of being sick and National Industries for the Blind, biography, home and garden, for a better quality of life. Bring House Rose Garden and the Potager du tired,” a character reenactment by 3000 Potomac Avenue, Alexandria. cooking, crafts, sports, religion, family and friends together in a way Roi at Versailles. But her most intimate Sheila Arnold Jones. Alexandria Chamber of Commerce travel, CDs, DVDs, and more. Unless that fits your lifestyle. Create open, garden is the half-acre, walled garden Fill Your Cart with Food Fighters. 2020 Chairman’s Reception specially priced, $1 for hard backs, private, and specialized spaces for all at her estate in Upperville, Virginia. 7:15 - 8:30 p.m. At Kate Waller presented by United States Senate 50 cents for large paperbacks, and 25 to visit comfortably. Head gardener Judy Zatsick shares the Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen Federal Credit Union. They’ll be cents for mass market paperbacks. Presented by Sun Design, an joys and challenges of carrying on the Street, Alexandria. Learn how to fill highlighting what’s on the horizon Visit https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ Architectural Design-Build firm. Call spirit of Bunny Mellon at Oak Spring your cart and plan your menu to for Alexandria as we enter the 2020s. library/branches/friends-of- 703-425-5588 or visit Garden Foundation. $10 per person. prevent Heart Disease, Type 2 The event will feature food, music, sherwood-regional. www.SunDesignInc.com. Register online at www.fairfa Diabetes, and Cancer. Join in a lively drinks and a live auction. Storytime with Young Historians. Washington Gardener Seed discussion on disease fighting foods 11 a.m. At The Alexandria Black Exchange. 12:30-4:30 p.m. At xcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code FRIDAY, JANUARY 31 0DE.C7C0) or call Green Spring and ways to reduce sugar, fat, and History Museum, 902 Wythe Street, Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Gardens at 703-642-5173. salt in your daily diet. You’ll leave Travel Tech. 10:15 a.m. – 12 p.m. At Alexandria. Bring your children to Spring Road, Alexandria./(Adults) Swing Gadjo. 6 p.m. At The Athenaeum, this session with practical tips and Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library, the Alexandria Black History Museum Washington Gardener Magazine is 201 Prince Street, Alexandria. Enjoy strategies and have a chance to 4701 Seminary Road, Alexandria. for cultural stories and creative craft co-hosting the 15th annual seed the Swing Gadjo, a gypsy jazz band sample items you will want to Before you explore the world, see activities that introduce history and exchange at Green Spring Gardens that plays Belgian/French gypsy incorporate into you menu. what website and travel apps are promote diversity. The Museum with lectures, a face-to-face seed available to help you plan your next Educator will be reading The swap, and more. Bring your extra guitarist Django Reinhardt’s world- TUESDAY/JAN. 28 famous tunes as well as pieces of the trip. In the class we will examine free Undefeated written by author Kwame seeds to swap and leave with a bag American Songbook. In either case, the Fidget Quilting. 7 - 8:30 p.m. At apps and websites that can be used to Alexander and illustrated by Kadir full of seeds, new garden friends, and music always swings and the melodies Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, plan your trip and offer assistance Nelson. All ages are welcome, but expert planting advice. Verified are haunting: you are welcome to hum 5005 Duke Street, Alexandria. earn during your stay away. Please feel most suitable for children 3-6 years Friends of Green Spring members along or get up and dance. Cost is about fidget quilts and activity mats free to bring your device to follow old. Admission is $3 per person. $15 (code C1E.4043), other guests $20. Visit the website: nvfaa.org and the benefits they offer along. Registration is preferred. Tickets are available online at $20 (code C1E.5B00). Register Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. alexandriava.gov/shop. Call 703-746- online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ MONDAY/JAN. 27 They’ll have examples and supplies SATURDAY, FEB. 1 4356 or visit alexandriava.gov/ parks/parktakes or call Green Spring Sheila Arnold: Fannie Lou Hamer. for you to start working on one of Used Book Sale. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at blackhistory. Gardens at 703-642-5173. 12 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 ❖ 13 Bulletin Board Treat One, Submit civic/community announcements at Get Two. ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos and artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at By KENNETH B. LOURIE least two weeks before event. I’m sure you regular readers are waiting with IH[LKIYLH[OMVY[OLJVUÄYTH[PVUVMT`\WKH[- SATURDAY/JAN. 25 ed health status. Unfortunately, for the moment Town Hall Meeting. 1-3:30 p.m. At Mount anyway, we’ll all have to wait a bit longer. Though Vernon Community School, 2601 [OLULLKSLIPVWZ`VMT`¸(KHT»Z(WWSL¹[\TVY Commonwealth Ave., Alexandria. Sen. Adam Ebbin and Del. Mark Levine will host a KPKPUKLLKJVUÄYT[O`YVPKJHUJLYZ[HNLUV Legislative Town Hall meeting. Join them to Z\JOJVUÄYTH[PVUVYJSHYPÄJH[PVUHZ[VP[ZVYPNPU share your views and priorities for the 2020 was made, or whether it’s been thyroid cancer legislative session. Contact e-mail: that I’ve been living with all these years, instead [email protected] or call 804-212-6438. of non small cell lung cancer, stage 4 or not. /V^L]LY[OLYLPZHWH[OMVY^HYK:\YNLY`[V SATURDAY/JAN. 25 YLTV]LT`[O`YVPKNSHUKHSVUN^P[OT`¸(KHT»Z Winter Community Police Academy. 8:30 (WWSL¹[\TVYHUKWVZZPIS`HS`TWOUVKLPZPU[OL a.m. to 1 p.m. At Alexandria Police Department WSHUUPUNZ[HNL(ZZ\JOZJOLK\SLKMVYUL_[-YPKH` Headquarters at 3600 Wheeler Ave., Alexandria. Get to know the Alexandria Police Department PZHUHWWVPU[TLU[^P[OHOLHKHUKULJRZ\YNLVU (APD) in an abbreviated half-day session. This [VKL[LYTPULT`Ä[ULZZMVYZ\YNLY`(SS^L»]LILLU academy allows residents and community [VSKZVMHYPZ[OH[[OLZ\YNLY`PZ\Z\HSS`V\[WH[PLU[ members to learn about various aspects of the arrive in the morning and leave that afternoon Police Department during the summer months. TH`IL0»SSIYPUNHSVUNT`KY`JSLHUPUN(WWHY- Topics will include patrol operations, use of LU[S`[OPZPZ[OLUL_[Z[LW¸VU[OLYVHK[VÄUKV\[¹ force policies, the K9 Unit, Special Operations *H[:[L]LUZ Team, crime scene investigation and criminal If I am indeed home that same evening, I’ve investigations. This free class is limited to 45 participants per session. Visit the Community been told by my endocrinologist that the recovery Police Academy online or e-mail the Volunteer WLYPVKPZHWWYV_PTH[LS`[^V^LLRZ([WYLZLU[0 Office at [email protected]. The KVU»[OH]LHU`KL[HPSZVM^OH[ºYLJV]LY`»L_HJ[S` deadline for registration is Jan. 17, 2020. TLHUZLU[HPSZ0MHSSNVLZHJJVYKPUN[V[OLWYLZ\Y- NPJHSHJ[\HSS`KPZJ\ZZPUN[OLWYVJLK\YL^P[O[OL SATURDAY/JAN. 25 Z\YNLVUJVU]LYZH[PVUHTVU[OVYZVHM[LY[OLWYV- Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. 10 a.m. to cedure, I will revisit my endocrinologist to have 2 p.m. The City of Alexandria encourages YHKPVPZV[VWLZHKTPUPZ[LYLKZVTLOV^6UJLPUZPKL residents to safely dispose of prescription and over-the-counter medications, including those T`IVK`0^PSSILZJHUULKI`HTHJOPULSVVRPUN prescribed by veterinarians, during National L_JS\ZP]LS`MVY[O`YVPKJHUJLY;OPZ^PSSJVUÄYT Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. During the PM0\UKLYZ[HUK[OLWYVJLZZJVYYLJ[S`^OL[OLY[OL event, the Alexandria Police Department, tumors in my lungs are thyroid or lung cancer. Alexandria Sheriff’s Office, and the Substance In the interim, I am to continue with my Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria PTT\UV[OLYHW`¸06¹HUK^P[OHU`V[OLY (SAPCA) will staff the following drop-off sites: HWWVPU[TLU[ZZJHUZL[J0YLJHSSZVTL[OPUN[OH[ ❖ First Baptist Church (2932 King St.); ❖ my oncologist said about my lung cancer tumors Police Department (3600 Wheeler Ave.); ❖ Fire Station 210 (5255 Eisenhower Ave.); K\YPUNOPZ¸L_JP[PUN¹WOVULJHSS/LZHPK[OH[T` ❖ The Neighborhood Pharmacy of Del Ray (2204 [\TVYZUL]LYYLHSS`HJ[LK[OL^H`OLHU[PJPWH[LK Mt. Vernon Ave.). as if they weren’t non small cell lung cancer at HSS(UKZ\YLLUV\NOZVTLVM[OLTHZJVU- NATIONAL MENTORING MONTH ÄYTLKI`[OLÄYZ[VMT`YLJLU[[^VIPVWZPLZ^LYL The City of Alexandria invites the public to [O`YVPKJHUJLY(Z0»]LILLUQVRPUN[OPZPZ^OH[ celebrate National Mentoring Month in January. T`VUJVSVNPZ[NL[ZL_JP[LKHIV\[HZVWWVZLK[V Join the Alexandria Mentoring Partnership in ^OH[`V\YZ[Y\S`^V\SKNL[L_JP[LKHIV\[!H>VYSK raising awareness about the benefits of :LYPLZ*OHTWPVUZOPW(UKHSZVHZOLZHPK[O`YVPK mentoring programs and the positive effects of mentoring Alexandria’s young residents. The tumors are more treatable, with more choices and Partnership represents a variety of programs IL[[LYV\[JVTLZ^OPJOPZL_JP[PUNMVYTL that strive to provide exceptional support to 62(@:V0OH]L[O`YVPKJHUJLYHUKP[»ZTVYL youth and young adults in the Alexandria [YLH[HISL>VUKLYM\SUL^Z)\[KV0Z[PSSOH]L community. There are four ways to celebrate: lung cancer? If so, where’s the future in that? Is it ❖ Attend an Open House on Jan. 29, from 6 to 8 ZVTLOV^UVSVUNLYH¸[LYTPUHS¹KPZLHZLILJH\ZL p.m., at the Lyceum (201 S. Washington St.). 0»]LV\[SP]LKT`VYPNPUHS¸TVU[O[V[^V`LHY¹ Attendees can engage with representatives from WYVNUVZPZ&>PSS0UV^IL[YLH[LKMVY[O`YVPKJHUJLY mentoring programs, hear personal reflections from mentors and mentees, and learn about how only to die of lung cancer? Moreover, am I now to become a mentor. This event is free, but going to get treated twice, in two medical suites, attendees are asked to register online. VULMVYLHJOJHUJLY&/H]L[OLZLT\S[PWSLIPVWZPLZ ❖ Participate in “Thank Your Mentor Day” on Jan. ZPTWS`KL[LYTPULK[OH[[OLKVJ[VYZ^LYLHJ[\HSS` 30, a day for mentees to show gratitude for their YPNO[IV[O[PTLZHUK0»TQ\Z[[OL\UMVY[\UH[L mentors on social media. Post a mentor/mentee WH[PLU[[VILZV^YVUNLK& photo using the hashtag -VYVYZV`LHYZ\U[PSSHZ[1HU\HY`0^HZ #ThankYourMentorDayALX and be entered in a [YLH[LKMVYS\UNJHUJLY^P[OJOLTV[OLYHW`/V^- drawing for a gift card to an Alexandria restaurant. L]LY[OPZWHZ[1HU\HY`[OL(KHT»Z(WWSL¹[\TVY Visit alexandriava.gov/Mentoring or call 703-746- HWWLHYLKHUK^LZ^P[JOLK[VPTT\UV[OLYHW`;OL 4478. YLHZVUMVY[OLJOHUNL![OLS\UNJHUJLYOHKZWYLHK according to my oncologist. Now, a year later, the SATURDAY/FEB. 1 Z[VY`KPHNUVZPZOHZJOHUNLK[OHURZ[VT`TVZ[ Mt. Vernon District Town Meeting. 7:45 a.m. YLJLU[IPVWZ`;OL[\TVY^HZU»[S\UNJHUJLY[OH[ to noon. At Mount Vernon High School, 8515 OHKZWYLHKP[^HZ[O`YVPKJHUJLY[OH[OHKZWYLHK Old Mount Vernon Road, Mount Vernon. Engage 0KPKU»[L]LURUV^0OHK[O`YVPKJHUJLY5V^ in your community in 2020. Times: 7:45-9:30 a.m. – Exhibit Hall Open; 9:30 a.m. to noon – `V\»YL[LSSPUNTLP[»ZZWYLHK&/V^S\JR`HT0&;^V Program: Speakers, Audience Q&As and Virtual JHUJLYZMVY[OLWYPJLVMVUL0N\LZZ[OPZ^PSSTHRL Tour. Meet your Supervisor Dan Storck and OLHS[OPUZ\YHUJLTVYLHMMVYKHISLZVY[VMSPRL many county, state and federal leaders. Have I\`PUNPUI\SRH[*VZ[JV your questions answered, learn about issues ;OLIPNX\LZ[PVU!KPKT`S\UNJHUJLY[YLH[TLU[ important to you, connect with county agencies PUHK]LY[LU[S`WYL]LU[T`[O`YVPKJHUJLYMYVT and service providers and mingle with your manifesting/metastasizing or did its non-diagnosis neighbors. HSSV^P[[VNYV^\UPTWLKLKHUKUV^WYLZLU[[OPZ VOLUNTEERS NEEDED X\P[L\UL_WLJ[LK\UHU[PJPWH[LKJVTWSPJH[PVU& Assistance League of Northern Virginia, a ,_WSHPU[OV\NOP[TH`[VT`VUJVSVNPZ[^O`0OH- volunteer nonprofit, invites community members ven’t succumbed to my original disease, it doesn’t to join the organization to participate in its X\P[LL_WSHPU[VTL^OH[[OLOLSS»ZILLUNVPUNVU Reading Express program. Volunteers provide and why. one-on-one tutoring to first grade students during the school year. To learn more contact Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for VP Membership Mary Gronlund at The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. [email protected] or Program Coordinator Lynn Barron at [email protected]. 14 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com SPECIAL SAVINGS FOR YOUR TOYOTA
11/30/19.
WELCOME TO ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA’S
PERSONALIZED CAR CARE EXPERIENCE 1/31/20.
ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 ❖ 15 16 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 23-29, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com