Alexandria Gazette Packet 25 Cents Page, 14 Serving Alexandria for over 200 years • A Connection Newspaper December 17, 2020
‘The Miracle of Lights’ Hanukkah observed Dec. 10-18. By Jeanne Theismann Gazette Packet
enorahs are lit, dreidels are spun and latkes are served as Jewish families across the city Mcelebrate Hanukkah, the eight- day Jewish festival that began Dec. 10 and
runs through Dec. 18. Photos by Janet Barnett/Gazette Packet “Observing Hanukkah gives us the chance to learn about battles and the miracle of lights,” said Madi Friedberg, 9, as her fami- ly celebrated the fifth night of Hanukkah on Dec. 14. The Friedberg family observed Hanukkah with traditional latkes, playing the spinning dreidel game and lighting the candles of a hanukiah, similar to a menorah but with a ninth prong to hold the Shamash candle. The Shamash is used to light the other can- dles. The Jewish festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates an early victory in the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid Empire: the recapture of Jerusalem Ollie and Madi Friedberg watch the in the year 164 BC and subsequent rededica- spinning dreidel on the fifth night of the Ollie Friedberg, 6, lights the first candle of a Hanukkah with the Shamash, the at- tion of the Second Temple. family Hanukkah celebration. tendant candle used to light the other candles, as part of the fifth night of Hanukkah Although a relatively minor holiday in re- observance on Dec. 14. With Ollie are sister Madi, 9, twin brother Noah and parents ligious terms, Hanukkah has cultural signifi- different things about different people.” Christine and Michael. cance due to its occurrence around the same The term Festival of Lights dates to the re- time as Christmas. building of the altar of the Second Temple. instead lasted for eight full nights, thus the the sacred holidays in Judaism are the High “We are lucky to celebrate both Christmas Part of that rededication included relight- Miracle of Hanukkah and why the celebra- Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New and Hanukkah,” said Madi’s brother Ollie. ing the menorahs. With only enough oil to tion is observed for eight nights. Year) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), “We get to be with family and learn a lot of light the menorah for a single night, the oil While Hanukkah is celebrating a miracle, both observed in the fall. Dropping Out of the Electoral College
Virginia state Senate to agree to joining the com- Lawmakers to consider pact. Since that time, Ebbin says, he has been able to persuade one Democrat on the Senate Privileges joining National Popular and Elections Committee who was a “no” vote to flip. Meanwhile, Del. Mark Levine (D-45) has already
Vote Compact. been able to get a majority vote for the compact in Photo by Nina Tisara/Tisara Photography the House, which voted 51 to 46 in favor of entering By Michael Lee Pope the interstate agreement. GAZETTE PACKET “It would say that every Virginian’s vote counts, whether you voted for Donald Trump or Hillary irginia may be on the verge of dropping out Clinton it would all go into the national count,” said of the Electoral College, joining a National Levine. “People would know whether you voted for VPopular Vote Compact in an effort to ditch a Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton, it would all go into presidential election system critics say is outdated and the national count and people would know that even undemocratic. Once enough states have joined the if you’re in the reddest of red states or the bluest of compact to reach 270 electoral votes, Virginia and oth- blue states, your vote is always counted.” er states that have signed on to the agreement would Republicans are united in their opposition to the award electoral votes to the winner of the national bill. During deliberations in the Privileges and Elec- popular vote rather than the candidate who prevailed tions Committee and on the House floor, Republicans at the state level. So far, 15 states and the District of argued that deciding the winner of the presidential Columbia have joined the compact for a total of 196 election using a popular vote rather than the Electoral electoral votes. College would be a disadvantage to rural areas. They “If we truly believe in fairness and value democra- fear that changing how the election is decided would Jim Henson, 84, Dies cy over partisanship, it is time to elect the president transform how presidential candidates wage cam- Jim Henson, a 2019 Living Legend of Alexandria, died Dec. based on the people’s will,” said Ebbin. “This legisla- paigns in a way that would disadvantage rural parts 13 after a brief battle with lung cancer. He was 84. See full tion affirms the core principle of American democracy of southwest Virginia. obituary on page 3 — one person, one vote.” Earlier this year, Ebbin tried and failed to get the See Dropping Out, Page 5 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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Serving the Washington, DC Metro Area since 1980. 703.549.9292 | 109 S. Pitt Street | Alexandria, VA 22314 | McEnearney.com 2 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v December 17-23, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News
Jim Henson dies ‘Too Blessed to be Stressed’ of lung cancer at 84. By Jeanne Theismann Gazette Packet
im Henson was a man- about-town, known for his dapper dressing, in- fectious smile and engag- Photo by Nina Tisara/Tisara Photography J Photos by Janet Barnett/Gazette Packet ing personality. But most notably he was known for the five words he uttered each time he greeted friends and strangers alike. To anyone who asked, Henson was always “too blessed to be stressed.” That signature phrase never left Henson, even after he was diag- nosed with Stage IV lung cancer in September. His zest for life never dimmed, as evidenced by his en- thusiastic greeting of well-wishers during a walk-by parade held in his honor Sept. 27. “This is a wonderful outpouring of friendship and camaraderie,” Henson said that day. “It means a Jim Henson, a 2019 Living Legend of Alexandria, died Dec. 13 after Elsie and Jim Henson, married Dec. 23, 1976, celebrate Valentine’s lot to me.” a brief battle with lung cancer. He was 84. Day earlier this year. That parade was organized by the Departmental Progressive Club, where Henson was a mem- ber, officer and board member since he first joined the organiza- tion in 1967. “There are so many things I will miss about Jim,” said Departmen- tal Progressive Club president Mer- rick Malone. “We shared a love of history, of music, of sports history. But also a love of the DPC and its historical significance to the city. No one was looking forward to the club’s 100th anniversary more than Jim. The best thing we can do A sign presented to Jim Hen- to honor him is to keep this club son memorializing his trade- and what it represents alive.” mark phrase “too blessed to be James E. Henson was born Oct. stressed.” 23, 1936, to Catherine Henson and Clarence McGuire at the Alex- scendant of the Freedmen Ceme- andria Hospital. “The old one on tery and an author have made his South Washington Street,” Henson ancestors proud. Unique people would say proudly. Jim Henson, seated center, holds his Living Legends portrait presented to him during a walk-by parade like Mr. Henson are never forgot- Raised in a single parent house- in his honor following his diagnosis of lung cancer in late September. With Henson are members of the ten. They will live on forever.” hold, Henson joined the Air Force Departmental Progressive Club and the Living Legends board of directors. Survivors include his wife of at the age of 17 and remained there 44 years, Elsie, who he married for 20 years. He served in Vietnam Through the Jaycees he helped als in the African American com- duced the 2013 book on prominent Dec. 23, 1976; and children Deb- and was awarded a Bronze Star found the city’s Dribble and Shoot munity during segregation. African Americans in Alexandria. orah Henson, Valerie Henson-Ford, for Merit in 1970. Henson served competition for boys that was In 2013, Henson collaborated “Mr. Henson is connected to the James E. Henson Jr., Sharon Hen- in the distinguished 89th Military eventually adopted on a national with noted genealogist and author Alexandria Contraband and Freed- son, Kayla Henson and Nicole Airlift Wing at Andrews Air Force level in 1969. Char McCargo Bah on the book men Cemetery,” Bah added. “His Walker. Base. Henson continued his interest “African Americans of Alexandria: paternal family members migrated Visitation will be held Jan. 7, After completing his military ser- in helping youth through his men- Beacons of Light in the 20th Cen- to Alexandria during the Civil War. 2021, at Greene Funeral Home, vice, Henson earned a law degree torship of minority boys at Lyles- tury.” Many of his family members were 814 Franklin St., from 2-8 p.m. from the University of Maryland Crouch Traditional Academy. He “Mr. Henson took one of my ge- buried at the Freedmen Cemetery A private funeral will be held the and became a civil rights lawyer. was also a founder of the Park- nealogical classes in the 1990s,” and the names of his relatives are following day. In lieu of flowers, He practiced law for 38 years, be- er-Gray Alumni Association, whose said Bah. “He was eager to learn on the memorial wall there.” donations may be made to the coming the first African American mission is to provide scholarships more about his family so he could In 2019, Henson was selected as Departmental Progressive Club Human Rights Administrator for for family members of Parker-Gray write a book about his great uncle, a Living Legend of Alexandria. Scholarship Fund, 411 Gibbon St., the Howard County Executive and alumni. Matthew Henson, the North Pole “Mr. Henson was excited about Alexandria, VA 22314. focused on eliminating discrimi- From 2009-2013 Henson explorer. From that moment, he the nomination,” Bah added. “For “Jim always believed in the value natory employment and housing chaired the Charles Houston Ad became a genealogist friend and him, that accomplishment con- the DPC adds to the community,” laws. Hoc Naming Committee to name he became my mentor.” nected to the dream he had as a Malone said. “We owe it to him to In addition to the DPC, Henson the Charles Houston gym the Louis Bah and Henson formed a writ- little boy -- to make his mother dedicate ourselves to make sure joined the Jaycees in 1967 and Johnson/Morris Siebert Gymnasi- er’s subcommittee group in which proud by achieving great things. the Departmental Progressive Club served on its board of directors. um after two influential individu- Henson was chair. That group pro- To become a Living Legend, a de- is there for future generations.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v December 17-23, 2020 v 3 News Photos by Janet Barnett/Gazette Packet Photo by Janet Barnett/Gazette Packet
Fire Chief Corey Smedley, left, and Assistant Fire Chief Mayor Justin Wilson, second from left, is joined by Wesley Housing and project partners at the Dec. Michael Cross, right, stand with members of the U.S. Marine 9 groundbreaking of The Waypoint at Fairlington, an affordable housing project to be built on the Corps and Toys for Tots organizers after more than 2,000 former site of a parking lot at Fairlington presbyterian Church. toys were dropped off Dec. 10 at AFD headquarters for dis- tribution to local families. There’s No Place Like Home Toys for Tots Affordable housing project breaks ground in Fairlington. Thousands of toys By Jeanne Theismann Gazette Packet donated for local families. Photo by Kate K. Pannozzo
By Jeanne Theismann onstruction of The Way- national security and military Gazette Packet point of Fairlington offi- health related agencies. cially kicked off Dec. 9 COVID-19 restrictions pre- with a groundbreaking lexandria Fire Chief vented AFCEA DC from host- C Corey Smedley was on ing their annual Winter Gala, ceremony to celebrate the afford- able housing development on the Ahand at AFD headquar- which supports the U.S. Ma- site of a former parking lot of Fair- ters Dec. 10 to receive more rines Toys for Tots Foundation lington Presbyterian Church. than 2,000 toys collected as program. Still committed to the Mayor Justin Wilson was among part of the U.S. Marine Corps’ program, they created a Seven those in attendance, which was annual Toys for Tots campaign. Weeks of Giving campaign with Mayor Justin Wilson makes remarks at the Dec. 9 groundbreaking limited to comply with current The toys were collected as a goal of distributing 5,000 toys of The Waypoint at Fairlington. statewide COVID-19 restrictions. part of a Seven Weeks of Giv- for children around the region. “The city is pleased to support Image courtesy Wesley Housing ing campaign by the Alexan- Donations surpassed last another affordable housing devel- dria-based AFCEA DC. The year’s with AFCEA DC collect- opment made possible through the organization is part of AFCEA ing more than $60,000 worth partnership of a nonprofit housing International, formerly known of toys. More than 2,000 toys entity and a local faith communi- as the Armed Forces Commu- were dropped off at AFD head- ty, which has embraced housing nications and Electronics As- quarters, which will be distrib- neighbors as part of its mission,” sociation, which focuses on the uting the presents to under- Wilson said. Department of Defense, the served children across the city. The project will provide 81 federal intelligence community, www.Afceadc.org apartments for low-to-moder- ate-income families and individu- als in Alexandria. Units will range from efficiencies to three-bedroom A rendering of The Waypoint of Fairlington. units, including nine ADA compli- Certification. cars into spaces for people, as the ant apartments. The Waypoint received a $7.6 pandemic has made even more ev- “Some of the 81 units here will million loan from the City of Alex- ident the chronic housing insecu- offer deep affordability and nine of andria, as well as a commitment of rity that so many of our neighbors the units will be fully accessible,” nine project-based unit vouchers live with.” Wilson added. “Projects like The and significant funding from the Construction on the project, Waypoint embody Alexandria’s Virginia Housing Trust Fund. The available to families and individu- values of diversity and inclusion project also received 9 percent als earning 30-60 percent of area and its location is ideal for all resi- Low-Income Housing Tax Credits median income, is scheduled to be dents: near public transit, jobs and from Virginia Housing. completed sometime in 2022. retail. We are excited to see con- Wesley Housing acquired the “Wesley Housing’s founding struction get underway.” site, an underutilized parking lot, in 1974 is rooted just across the Resident amenities will include from the Fairlington Presbyterian street from where we stand today,” free Wi-Fi, on-site laundry facili- Church following more than three said Wesley Housing President and ties, a community room, enhanced years of talks with City officials, CEO, Shelley Murphy. “I’m confi- public transport accessibility and church and the Alexandria com- dent our founder is smiling down access to a playground and park munity. on us right now as we begin con- space on a parcel shared with “Our church’s mission is to be a struction on this new affordable Fairlington Presbyterian Church transforming force for good in the property that many hard working Fire Chief Corey Smedley, left, and Assistant Fire Chief Mi- and the Potomac Crescent Waldorf world in the name of Jesus Christ,” families in our community can chael Cross help unload toys at AFD headquarters Dec. 10 as School. The community will meet said Fairlington Presbyterian soon call home.” part of the annual U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots campaign. Energy Star green building stan- Church pastor Juli Wilson-Black. For more information visit More than 2,000 toys were donated for distribution to local dards and will be seeking Nation- “We are especially glad in this mo- WesleyHousing.org or TheWay- children and families. al Green Building Standard Silver ment to be able to turn spaces for pointALX.com. 4 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v December 17-23, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News WEEKEND 1 JOIN US DEL RAY ARTISANS December 6th HOLIDAY MARKET Decemberthrough 4th through December 6th DecemberDecember 8th 11th through December 13th Source: Virginia House of Delegates December 18th through December 20th 2020 WEEKEND 2 2019 FridayDecember 6-9 pm 13th •Saturday & Sunday 11 am - 6 pm through DecemberCovid 15th 19 Procedures in place Diff erent Artists Each Weekend WEEKEND 3 DecemberDel 20th Ray Artisans Gallery through2704 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria December 22nd DelRayArtisans.org/holiday-market-2020
The Electoral College meeting for Virginia took place in the cham- ber of the House of Delegates earlier this week. All 13 of Virginia’s electoral votes were awarded to Joe Biden. Dropping Out of The Electoral College
From Page 1 “The Electoral College, from my “You’d be having all the resourc- perspective, has racist origins,” es of campaigns focused on the said Sen. Scott Surovell (D-36). major metropolitan areas and ig- “This is the best way to bring real noring the people who live in the democracy to this country because rural areas,” said Del. Chris Head I think when most people vote for (R-17). “Instead of Virginia’s votes president they think they’re voting counting, it would really be Cali- for president and not for an elector fornia’s votes counting.” to vote for president.” Advocates for the National Popu- lar Vote Interstate Compact say the DITCHING THE ELECTORAL current system already overlooks COLLEGE has been a goal of re- rural voters in California, where formers for years, perhaps most Republican presidential candi- notably after the 1968 election dates don’t bother campaigning when a third-party challenge from because Democrats have a dead- Geroge Wallace came close to de- lock on the state’s electoral votes. nying a majority in the Electoral Similarly, Republican candidates College and potentially deciding don’t usually bother campaigning the election in the U.S. House of in states like Kansas because that Representatives. House Judiciary state’s electoral votes have essen- Chairman Emanuel Celler (D-New tially already been decided before York) introduced a constitutional the candidates have been chosen. amendment that would have re- Supporters of the interstate com- placed the Electoral College with a pact argue that the winner-take- system based on the popular vote. all version of the Electoral College The House approved the amend- that’s emerged over the years fa- ment with bipartisan support in vors swing states to the exclusion of everybody else. See Dropping Out, Page 11 Unpopular Votes
v 1824: Andrew Jackson won 42 percent of the popular vote, but John Quincy Adams prevailed in the Electoral College even though he had only 32 percent of the popular vote. Virginia (and what’s now West Virginia) cast 24 electoral votes for William Crawford. Alexandria did not participate in the presidential election because it was in the District of Columbia at the time and had no electoral votes. v 1876: Democrat Samuel Tilden won 51 percent of the popular vote, but Republican Rutherford Hayes prevailed in the Electoral College even though he had only 48 percent of the popular vote. Virginia cast 11 electoral votes for Tilden, who also received a majority of votes in Alexandria. Democrats ended up conceding the election in the Compromise of 1877, which ended Reconstruction by withdrawing federal troops from the South. v 1888: Democrat Grover Cleveland won 49 percent of the popular vote, but Republican Benjamin Harrison prevailed in the Electoral College even though he had only 48 percent of the popular vote. Virginia cast 12 electoral votes for Cleveland, who also won a majority of voters in Alexandria. v 2000: Democrat Al Gore won 48.4 percent of the vote, but Republican George W. Bush prevailed in the Electoral College even though he had only 47.9 percent of the popular vote. Virginia cast 13 electoral votes for Bush, although Gore won 64 percent of the vote in Alexandria. v 2016: Democrat Hillary Clinton won 48 percent of the vote, but Republi- can Donald Trump prevailed in the Electoral College even though he had only 46 percent of the popular vote. Virginia cast 13 electoral votes for Clinton, who won 76 percent of the vote in Alexandria. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v December 17-23, 2020 v 5 Opinion Alexandria Gazette Packet
tenance backlogs at our national www.AlexandriaGazette.com Leave parks. The article has no byline, so presumably it was based on issu- @AlexGazette Christmas ances from the organization and/ An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered or the senator’s office. What the to homes and businesses. Decorations Up Published by article didn’t address helps us un- Local Media Connection LLC To the Editor, derstand how ingeniously our gov- 1606 King Street Christmas decorations around ernment works. Alexandria, Virginia 22314 Alexandria look especially beau- Legislation to redress mainte- Free digital edition delivered to tiful this year, with so many fam- your email box. Go to nance backlogs at our national connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe ilies at home this month. I hope, parks went nowhere until it was re- however, there will not be a rush crafted to dedicate $1.3 billion an- NEWS DEPARTMENT: to tear down the decorations until nually from onshore and offshore [email protected] well into January. energy development on public Editor & Publisher Mary Kimm If Alexandrians are not familiar space. Suddenly, Sen. Joe Manchin [email protected] with the song, “The (D-W.V.) from the country’s second @MaryKimm Letters Twelve Days of Christ- highest coal-producing state; Steve Jeanne Theismann [email protected] mas,” the holiday be- Daines (R-Mont.), the eastern half @TheismannMedia gins on Dec. 25, the of whose state, loaded with oil and Janet Barnett, John Bordner, first day of Christmas, taking us to gas operations and coal mines, is Mark Mogle Contributing Photographers the Epiphany on Jan. 6, when the twelfth in crude oil production; [email protected] three wise men arrived in Bethle- and Cory Gardner (R-Colo.) whose Shirley Ruhe hem after those 12 days follow- state has enough oil and gas pro- Not in Alexandria Contributing Photographer and Writer [email protected] ing the birth of Jesus Christ. The duction to warrant having its own Upon seeing the photo of the tion the Alexandria jail or our four week period before Dec. 25 is state industry group hopped on as Eden Brown, Bridgette Adu-Wadier Alexandria Adult Detention Cen- Sheriff’s Office, and although the Contributing Writers called Advent, a time of prepara- cosponsors and the legislation sud- ter on the front page of last week’s article never identified where or [email protected] tion. denly moved. Alexandria Gazette, one could as- when this event occurred, I want Hope Nelson While it was understandable The bill’s prospects also im- Food Writer sume something newsworthy had it to be clear that it was not in Al- [email protected] to be particularly excited this au- proved when the President, wor- recently occurred at the jail. But exandria. @kitchenrecess tumn and put the Christmas trees ried that the Obama-Biden Ad- being the Sheriff, I knew that was Michael Pope and lights up even before Advent ministration’s fixation with climate Senior Reporter not the case. The article (“Absurd Dana Lawhorne, [email protected] began, that should not be a reason change had stalled economic re- Leverage,” Dec. 10) did not men- Sheriff @michaelleepope to cut the Christmas celebration covery, who will only believe cli- ADVERTISING: short. Christmas should proper- mate change is true when rising For advertising information ly be celebrated for a few weeks [email protected] sea levels reach Trump Tower’s and 703-778-9431 starting on Dec. 25. Mar-a-Lago’s doorsteps, backed it. Debbie Funk Please, Alexandria neighbors, Note also how the law lasts for five Disply Advertising/National Sales leave your Christmas decorations 703-778-9444 years, just long enough to get us [email protected] up during the first part of January. through the Biden Administration Tara Lloyd Let’s remember the reason for the whose proclivity for doing short- Display Advertising, 703-740-7128 season. term damage to energy develop- [email protected] David Griffin ment to stanch climate change is Marketing Assistant Kenneth J. Wolfe well known. 703-778-9431 [email protected] Old Town Now, when those pesky environ- Classified & Employment mental groups complain about en- Advertising ergy leases on public lands and the 703-778-9431 It’s Ingenious. Biden Administration tries to put a Publisher stop to issuing them, the counter Jerry Vernon Or Ingenuous? will be that they’re taking funding 703-549-0004 [email protected] The National Park Foundation away from our national parks. Art/Design: honored U.S. Sen. Mark Warner Laurence Foong, John Heinly, (D-Va.) for his leadership in dedi- Dino Drudi Ali Khaligh Production Manager: cating $9.5 billion to redress main- Alexandria Aladdin Geovani Flores Sunday, Dec. 12 was a balmy, 60-degree day for camel Editor Emeritus: Mary Anne Weber watching. In 1787, George Washington paid 18 shillings to bring a camel to Mount Vernon for entertainment. Now, CIRCULATION Aladdin the camel has come to Mount Vernon every holiday Circulation Manager: Ann Oliver Let Us Know Your View season since 2008. [email protected] Connection Newspapers welcomes views on any public issue. A Connection Newspaper Letters must be signed. Include home address and home and business numbers; we will only print your name and town name. The Alexandria Gazette Packet is distributed weekly to selected homes in the City of Alexandria. Letters are routinely edited for length, libel, grammar, Any owners or occupants of premises that do not good taste, civility and factual errors. wish to receive the paper can notify the publisher by telephone at 703-778-9426 or by email to Send letters [email protected], and the Online www.connectionnewspapers.com/contact/letter/ distributor will be notified to discontinue service. By email: [email protected] By mail to: Letters to the Editor The Connection 1606 King St., Alexandria VA 22314 You can comment on our Facebook page or find us on Twitter www.facebook.com/connectionnewspapers https://twitter.com/alexgazette https://twitter.com/mtvernongazette https://twitter.com/followfairfax
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Experience the Nostalgia of an old-time Five & Dime Store “If we don’t have it, ASO Shares Virtual Message you don’t need it.” Hollin Hall Of Hope and Healing Shopping Center Newspapers & Online 7902 Fort Hunt Rd., ily and friends over the holidays, the ASO’s musical Alexandria Symphony Alexandria, VA 22308 message of hope is a poignant and meaningful alter- For Advertising: native to a greeting card or stocking stuffer,” says ASO Call 703.778.9431 Orchestra releases ‘Sure Board President Melynda Wilcox. 703-765-4110 Corporate and individual sponsors covered the pro- or email on This Shining Night’ duction costs of the project and allowed them early [email protected] [email protected] access to the virtual concert. Through sharing with he Alexandria Symphony Orchestra (ASO) in friends, family and clients, the virtual concert already collaboration with the Alexandria Choral Soci- has had over 1,000 views. ASO offers a special thank Tety (ACS) has released its virtual winter con- you to the presenting sponsor Harriett G. McCune, a cert featuring ASO musicians and a guest appearance member of the ASO Board of Trustees, and to Donnie by Alexandria Choral Society singers. The 34-minute Wintermute, the event chair. video Sure on This Shining Night: A Musical Message From a viewer who received early access to the vid- of Hope will be available on YouTube until the end of eo from a sponsor, “I was overwhelmed by the beauty, December. the spirit and the message of the music. I dropped “The question for the Alexandria Symphony has everything and listened to the end. This has to be my been how music can contribute at this fraught mo- biggest blessing of the season.” ment to finding a more accepting and empathetic, “Music has the power to uplift and inspire both lis- less partisan, common ground,” says ASO Music Di- teners and performers,” says ASO Executive Director rector James Ross. “What can bring us together, even George Hanson. “We hope to bring this shared musi- if apart? This project is our answer to that question.” cal experience of hope and togetherness to the widest Program highlights include harp melodies near the possible audience. hearth, a Swedish holiday song with voice and guitar, The ASO board, staff and musicians consider this Prokokiev’s Troika (Sleigh Ride) with brass quintet, our holiday gift to the community.” and the “Pastorale” from Handel’s Messiah. The cen- To access the video visit: https://youtu.be/ terpiece is an appeal for kindness and healing: Morten nYpqzIg_5UU through December 31. More informa- Lauridsen’s Sure on This Shining Night for chorus and tion about the program is posted on the ASO’s ded- strings produced with the Alexandria Choral Society. icated webpage: www.alexsym.org/sure-on-this-shin- “At a time when so many of us will not be with fam- ing-night/ Bulletin Board
Submit civic/community announce- This week leaf collection was complet- Visit the City’s website or call the leaf ments at ConnectionNewspapers.com/ ed in Zone 3 Pass 2, Zone 4 Pass 2, collection hotline at 703-746-LEAF Calendar. Photos and artwork wel- Zone 5A Pass 2 and Zone 5B Pass (5323), which is updated by noon come. Deadline is Thursday at noon, 2. Residents in Zone 3, Zone 4, every Friday. To report a collection at least two weeks before the event. Zone 5A and Zone 5B should bag issue online use Alex311. leaves for collection at their normal ALEXANDRIA LEAF refuse collection location prior to LIBRARY TO OFFER the next scheduled pass. ACADEMIC RESOURCES COLLECTION UPDATE Currently, they are completing leaf col- On Monday, Nov. 2 the City of The Alexandria Library will soon lection in Zone 1 Pass 2 and Zone offer free academic resources and Alexandria began its annual leaf 5C Pass 2. Tentatively, on Wednes- vacuuming and leaf bag collection online tutoring from Tutor.com. day, December 16 leaf collection All customers with a library card program. Alexandria is divided into will start in Zone 2 Pass 3 (final five collection zones (please see can use the service to get help pass) and on Friday, December 18 with homework, class projects, map below), each with a specif- leaf collection will start in Zone 5D ic start date and three separate papers—even test prep. Tutoring is Pass 2. Free leaf bags for residents available in all core K-12 subjects passes. Residents can access the who receive City trash services are Residential Leaf Collection Viewer – math, science, English, social no longer available. Bio bags are studies and writing, including (an interactive map) to look up exhausted for the remaining of this assigned leaf collection dates based season. See Bulletin, Page 8 on the home address. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v December 17-23, 2020 v 7 News
Owner Tonya Kemp makes adjustments to a display at the Dec. 11 Owner Tonya Kemp helps a customer check out on opening day of Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy shop opening of Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shop, a retro candy store Dec. 11 in Fairlington Centre. in Fairlington Centre. Candyland Rocket Fizz opens in Fairlington Centre.
By Jeanne Theismann my family and thought this would be a great idea.” Gazette Packet The shop specializes in soda, candy and novelty items. Rocket Fizz produces its own line of soft drinks he phrase “excited as a kid in a candy store” with unique flavors and markets candies that are rare took on new meaning as Rocket Fizz Soda to find or in limited production, such as those that Photos by Janet Barnett/Gazette Packet Pop & Candy Shop opened its doors Dec. 11 were popular during the Tamong the shops 1960s to 1980s. in Fairlington Centre. “I lost job my job in May “We have lots and lots of The locally-owned shop old time nostalgic candies,” is part of the Rocket Fizz and wanted to do some- Kemp said. “Rocket Fizz is franchise and blends a vast famous for its Rocket Fizz selection of soda pop flavors thing for the commu- sodas with random flavors and candies from yesteryear, like bacon, grass and cook- all wrapped in a colorful and nity .. and thought this ie dough. We also have gag nostalgic motif. gifts and items like Dissent- Owner Tonya Kemp decid- would be a great idea.” mints with Ruth Bader Gins- ed to open the shop earlier — Rocket Fizz owner Tonya Kemp burg on them – lots of great this year after losing her job little things for stocking in May. stuffers.” “I had visited a Rocket Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Fizz in Traverse City Michigan and fell in love with Candy Shop is located at 1721 Centre Plaza in the Owner Tonya Kemp, left, and sales associate Susan Quinn stand the concept,” Kemp said. “I lost my job in May and space formerly occupied by Diversions next to the CVS at the store front of Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shop on wanted to do something for the community and for at North Quaker Lane. opening day Dec. 11 at Fairlington Centre. Bulletin Board
From Page 7 providing participating restaurants jail, or both. locations recommended in Alexan- are in critical need for volunteers AP-level assistance. Students can with window clings and bright dria’s Transportation Master Plan to assist members with driving to access live, online tutoring from warning stickers for delivery boxes CAPITAL BIKESHARE EXPANDS (p. 55) are being used as a starting medical appointments and grocery any Internet-capable device. Visit: and bags. While the initial group of The City of Alexandria will expand point for the new locations and shopping. Mount Vernon At Home https://alexlibraryva.org. partners includes pizza restaurants the Capital Bikeshare Program to are being considered in coordina- will supply you with necessary per- because the delivery boxes easily the West End several years ahead tion with the bikeshare operator sonal protective equipment (PPE), PROJECT STICKER SHOCK facilitate the project stickers, any of schedule, starting in early 2021. and adjacent property owners. and can provide a donation receipt Throughout December, the City of restaurants with suitable deliv- The City will purchase seven pre- Members of the Traffic and Parking for your millage. Volunteers can Alexandria is collaborating with ery packaging are encouraged to viously deployed stations in good Board supported these locations sign up for driving assignments local restaurants in this year’s participate. Youth age 13 and older condition, which will accelerate the during discussion at their meeting through the online system which Project Sticker Shock campaign, have reported in national polls that system expansion by two to five on October 26. Visit alexandriava. makes it easy to see and accept an annual youth-led initiative to it is easy to get alcohol from adults, years. The interim stations, which gov/Bikesharing. assignments. Give what time you educate adults about the serious including sometimes from parents are anticipated to be installed can, there is no minimum or maxi- penalties for providing alcohol with substance use disorders. Pro- in January and February, will be DRIVERS NEEDED mum number of hours. If you have to minors under 21 years old. viding alcohol to a person under replaced with new equipment once TO HELP SENIORS some time to give to the commu- age 21 is a Class 1 misdemeanor in The Substance Abuse Prevention grant funding becomes available. Mount Vernon At Home is a nonprofit nity and can spare several hours a Virginia, punishable with a driver’s Coalition of Alexandria (SAPCA) City staff is finalizing locations organization serving senior citizens month, visit info@mountvernona- license suspension and a fine of up and Alexandria youth, who spear- for stations and coordinating an in the Mount Vernon and Alexan- thome.org, or call 703-303-4060. to $2,500, and up to 12 months in See Bulletin, Page 9 head the campaign each year, are installation schedule. The general dria areas of Fairfax County. They 8 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v December 17-23, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News New Partnership Helps Alexandria Residents Facing Eviction
LIVE! with support from an Lazarus Ministry Christ Church on ACT for Alexandria Resil- how to mobilize volunteers work- Aience Fund grant is work- ing to prevent evictions, and the ing in partnership with the North- financial support from ACT, each ern Virginia Affordable Housing partner can contribute in a mean- Alliance, Legal Services of North- ingful way, and ALIVE! is able to ern Virginia, and Lazarus Ministry support an outreach worker to Christ Church to stand up the Al- coordinate and manage the pro- exandria Eviction Prevention Pro- gram. Each organization involved gram (AEPP). has access to strong and dedicat- The Alexandria Eviction Preven- ed volunteer supporters who are tion Program is an all women-led also stepping up to help alongside response to the growing numbers expert staff. “Coming out of the of people facing eviction issues in program, we hope people will un- the City of Alexandria. The group derstand their rights better, know of colleagues identified a need where to access financial or other for a one-stop place where resi- supports to keep going, and ideally dents at-risk of eviction could go remain in their homes,” said Mi- for help. With funding from ACT, chelle Krocker, Executive Director each organization has contributed of Northern Virginia Housing Alli- to the Eviction Prevention Program ance. to identify people most at-risk of eviction, organize outreach events About AEPP to educate and counsel people The Alexandria Eviction Pre- about their rights and possible re- vention Partnership (AEPP) is a sources for rental assistance, and new, collaborative effort com- help people complete applications bining the strength of four local for support. organizations who are dedicated Outreach events open to the to serving the marginalized com- public are scheduled throughout munities of Alexandria. ALIVE! is December. While funding to sup- a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organiza- port the Alexandria Eviction Pre- tion dedicated to providing emer- Same Company, Same Employees, vention Program outreach coor- gency and basic needs support to dinator and case manager is only children, families, and individuals available through the end of the living in poverty and with hunger Same Great Value - Now Celebrating 20 Years! month, the program will continue in the City of Alexandria. ALIVE!’s with volunteer support in the new mission is to help Alexandrians year. faced with emergency situations TWO POOR TEACHERS AEPP partner organizations are or long-term needs become capa- also seeking additional grant fund- ble of assuming self-reliant roles in Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling ing to support these two paid posi- the community. Legal Services of tions beyond December. In its first Northern VA (LSNV) is a full-ser- week AEPP had fielded over 200 vice, nonprofit law firm that serves requests for information and has clients throughout Northern Vir- provided financial support to sev- ginia. Their mission is to provide eral families who needed shelter access to justice for disadvan- and rent to make it through. It has taged individuals and communi- also helped many others receive ties. Northern Virginia Affordable protection under the CDC eviction Housing Alliance (NVAHA) pro- moratorium and connect to finan- motes healthy, sustainable, and eq- cial support systems. uitable communities that meet the “This is on-the-ground grass- diverse housing needs of Northern roots response to help people ac- Virginia residents, with a focus on cess services they need to stay in low- and moderate-income house- their home or safely transition holds, through advocacy, commu- through an eviction process,” says nity partnerships, and research. Danien Johnson, ALIVE!’s Director The Lazarus Ministry is a ministry • Electrical (ELE) Fully Insured & Class A Licensed of Client Services who is coordinat- of Christ Church, which provides • Gas Fitting (GFC) Since 1999 10% down ing the program and developing, emergency financial assistance • Heating Ventilation and Air with NVAHA and LSNV, volunteer and food to City of Alexandria resi- nothing until the job trainings to help people make the dents. In addition, they provide re- Conditioning (HVA) is complete for the connections they need for support. sources, referrals, and advocacy to • Plumbing (PLB) past 17 years With advice and expertise from those in need in Alexandria. • Residential Building (RBC) Bulletin Board Free Estimates 703-999-2928 From Page 8 Wednesday of each month at 2 Check if your contractor is licensed at the state level
p.m. At the Hollin Hall Senior Cen- http://www.DPOR.virginia.gov VOLUNTEERS WANTED ter, Room 109, 1500 Shenandoah The Parkinson’s Disease Support Road. All Parkinson’s patients and Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com Group of Alexandria meets the 1st caregivers are welcome. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v December 17-23, 2020 v 9 Entertainment 4 Restaurants Ready With Your Christmas Meal
By Hope Nelson grits and more will send a thrill choose an appetizer and dessert to to the stomach. Each feast comes go alongside, and nosh on a bevy ome years, the thrill in the with wine and dessert – and, most of side items that accompany the kitchen is gone. The holi- likely, built-in leftovers. Limited main course. days may be approaching, availability; order at least 24 hours Add on extras, such as focaccia Sbut the constant kitchen ahead. http://www.magnoliasonk- or shrimp bisque, to round out the duties for families nationwide over ing.com/ proceedings how you see fit, or the past half-year have begun to pick up a kid’s portion for young- lose their luster. Not Bastille, er diners. Order by Dec. 19; pick Appetite to worry! The city’s 606 N. Fayette St. up Dec. 22, 23, 24, 31 or Jan. 1. restaurants have Festoon your holiday with a https://www.rampartstavern. you covered with a French flair and let Bastille do the com/holidaytakeout home-cooked meal that requires cooking this year. The three-course very little home cooking. From prix fixe menu offers the likes of Northside 10, classic Christmas dinner to exten- lobster bisque, salmon rillettes or 10 E. Glebe Road. sive plant-based menus, here are a winter salad to start, followed by Northside 10’s menu is a fami- few best bets this holiday season. beef tenderloin or Atlantic halibut ly affair: The family-style offering as the main event, both with all feeds five to seven people with a Magnolia’s on King, the trimmings. Finish out the meal classic holiday meal. With a cen- 703 King St. with a cheese trio or – of course! – terpiece of Cajun fried turkey or The go-to place for Southern a buche de Noel. Order by Dec. 20 spiral glazed ham, the menu is staples is offering up a multicourse for a Dec. 24 pickup. https://www. rounded out with mashed pota- feast with all the trimmings for bastillerestaurant.com/ toes, gravy, cornbread stuffing, the holiday season – and plant- Brussels sprouts, green bean cas- based diners won’t be left hun- Ramparts, serole, cranberry sauce and more. gry in the process. From Dec. 16 1700 Fern St. Order by Dec. 20. https://www. through New Year’s Day, Mag- Magret de Canard dish at Bastille, seared Hudson Valley duck In terms of both timing and se- northside10.com/ nolia’s is offering menus for two, breast is served with quinoa and Medjool date jam. lection, Ramparts’ holiday meal four or six diners, featuring some offerings are plentiful. From a clas- Hope Nelson is the author of “Clas- sic turkey dinner to short ribs to sic Restaurants of Alexandria” and of the season’s best eats – with a potatoes, collard greens, mac and gravy, pan-seared “crab” cakes, owns the Kitchen Recessionista blog, Southern twist. Stuffed turkey rou- cheese and more await omnivores. Cajun black-eyed peas and rice, risotto, the menu accommodates a located at www.kitchenrecessionista. lade, honey-glazed ham, gumbo, For vegetarians, Magnolia’s has a maple Brussels sprouts, barbe- plethora of tastes. com. Email her any time at devilled eggs, cornbread, mashed special menu: Fried “chicken” and cue “pork” and gouda cauliflower For each three-course option, [email protected].
Calendar
NOW THRU JAN. 3 ton discuss the day-to-day planning all-media show of compelling food and beverage, enjoy a tapas art walk at their own leisure. Ice & Lights: The Winter Village needed for a busy holiday season. small-scale works by our artists, style menu with a southern twist Lamp Post Art will be located in at Cameron Run. At Camer- The “Holiday Dinner for the priced affordably for holiday shop- and, of course, festive cocktails. the following areas. on Run Regional Park, 4001 Washingtons” tour shares how food ping. Visit the website: https:// Reservations can be booked online Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria. was grown, preserved and served galleryunderground.org/ or via [email protected], FRIDAY/DEC. 18 Opens nightly 5 to 10 p.m. Ice during the holidays. Mount Vernon available as of December 2, 2020. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Soci- and Lights: The Winter Village is open 365 days a year, including STARTING DEC. 1 Visit kingandrye.com/event/win- ety Trivia Night. 7- 8:30 p.m. at Cameron Run will return on Christmas Day. Admission: ArtWalk. At various locations along ter-wonderland Virtual. Five interactive Zoom this year, featuring an ice rink, $23 for adults; $12 for youth King Street (Union to Diagonal), rounds of trivia fun with prizes more than a dozen holiday light (ages 6-11); free for children age and select side streets, Alexandria. NOW THRU DEC. 20 that will test your knowledge of displays perfect for Instagram- 5 and below; extra cost for some Old Town Business Association is Del Ray Artisans Holiday Market offers history and Alexandria! Wheth- ming, retail area, food, music activities. Visit mountvernon.org/ partnering with The Art League unique handmade fine arts and er you’re a single, a couple, or a and more. The Ice and Lights christmas of Alexandria to offer a holiday crafts from local artists. Different couple of friends, this is perfect Village is a short drive from Old themed ArtWalk in Old Town along artists each weekend. Choose from for your Friday night this Town. Masks are required in NOW THRU THE HOLIDAYS King Street (Union to Diagonal) wall art, pottery, photography, jew- holiday season. The questions all areas of Ice & Lights except Art on the Avenue. The 25th Annual and select side streets. Each block elry, glass, and more. Plus FUNd- are challenging and geared for when eating or drinking in the Art on the Avenue festival will will feature a work of art adorning raising 2021 calendars, cookbooks, adult players, but adult/child concession areas. Admission: move to a virtual format for 2020, a lamppost. Maps may be found and upcycled tote bags. Free teams are welcome. Cost is $20 $8.16 for general admission to running through the holidays. at oldtownbusiness.org beginning admission. Market is December per household, with all proceeds Village; $20.68 for admission Over 150 artists will be featured, December 1, 2020. Keep an eye out 4-6, December 11-13, December benefiting Gadsby’s Tavern with skating; starting January offering handmade items in a for holiday trees located on both 18-20. Fridays 6-9pm and Satur- Museum. Tickets and details 9, 2021, $12.19 for skating. wide range of mediums, including upper and lower King Streets. Visit days & Sundays 11am-6pm. Please are available at http://www. Visit novaparks.com/events/ wheel-thrown vases and bowls, oldtownbusiness.org wear a face mask and maintain 6’ gadsbystavernmuseum.us/. ice-lights tiles, sculpture, tote bags and purs- personal space. Located at 2704 es, drawings and pastels, knitted NOW THRU JAN. 30 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria. DEC. 18-19 NOW THRU DEC. 31 and crocheted hats and gloves, Winter Wonderland. At King & Details: DelRayArtisans.org/event/ Christmas Illuminations at Mount Christmas at Mount Vernon. From 9 woven scarves and shawls, gour- Rye’s courtyard (480 King Street, holiday-market-2020 Vernon. 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. At a.m. to 4 p.m. At George Wash- met food, fused and blown glass, Alexandria) is transforming into George Washington’s Mount ington’s Mount Vernon, 3200 jewelry, paintings, photography, a Winter Wonderland. In addition DEC. 5 THRU JAN. 8 Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., and much more. Traditionally held to general courtyard seating with Old Town Business Holiday Lamp Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon. Visit Mount each fall on Mount Vernon Avenue, heat lamps and holiday décor, new Post Art Walk. Along King Street Attend the evening event Christ- Vernon this winter to partici- Art on the Avenue is a multicultur- this year, book an igloo for private and select side streets, Old Town mas Illuminations, a festive pate in holiday activities and al arts festival that strives to reflect dining for up to eight guests. This Alexandria. The arts are alive in fireworks show choreographed meet special guest Aladdin the the vibrant mix of the Del Ray is ideal for social distancing as you Old Town this holiday season with to holiday music. You’ll visit camel. Learn about camels and community through the artists and are only in the space with your the debut of its first-holiday art with re-enactors throughout the George Washington’s interest their work, and draws an estimat- party, and the area is sanitized walk. Don’t forget the exceptional estate and stay toasty warm by in exotic animals during Camel ed 75,000 visitors each year. Visit between parties. The igloos will shopping and dining Old Town the bonfire. Tickets for Christ- Talks, offered Friday through www.artontheavenue.org. each have heaters as well as the Alexandria has to offer. Old Town mas Illuminations are available Sunday beginning on November option to play your own music via Business collaborated with 25 art- to purchase online. Learn about 27. Specialty tours give guests DEC. 1-31 a Bluetooth speaker. The igloos will ists from The Art League to create safety measures on the estate. a deeper look into the holidays Small Works Show. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. be reservation required with a $50 holiday-themed lamp post art piec- Admission: Starting at $20 for at Mount Vernon. During the At Gallery Underground, 2100 rental and $100 food and beverage es along King Street and select side members; $22 for non-mem- tour “Mrs. Washington’s Mount Crystal Drive, Arlington. “Small minimum. The rental will include streets. A map of the artwork will bers. Visit mountvernon.org/ Vernon,” hear Martha Washing- Works, Great Joy!” an all-member, a hot cocoa and cookie bar. For be created so folks can stroll the See Calendar, Page 13
10 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v December 17-23, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News
Source: National Popular Vote Inc. Dropping Out of The Electoral College
From Page 5 winner of the Electoral College, although it doesn’t al- September 1969 by a vote of 339 to 70, and President ways happen that way. Some of the most controversial Richard Nixon endorsed the proposal. But the move- presidential elections have concluded with the winner ment was derailed in the Senate, where Sen. Strom of the popular vote losing to the candidate who pre- Thurmond (R-South Carolina) led a filibuster of south- vailed in the electoral college. That’s happened five ern states. times. In four of those elections, it was the Democrat Virginia Sens. Harry Byrd Jr. and William Spong, who won the popular vote and the Republican who both Democrats, voted against cloture, essentially prevailed in the Electoral College. The fifth time was supporting the filibuster effort and killing the reform before the Democrats or the Republicans existed in effort. their current form. “As long as you have 39 senators opposed to this “Up until 2008, Republican Party presidential can- plan, it is evident this is didates won this state’s not the plan the country electoral votes regard- needs,” said Sen. Sam “If we truly believe in fair- less of how many African Ervin (D-N.C.) after the Americans voted for the amendment was filibus- ness and value democracy Democratic candidates,” tered. “This kills it for the said Jamelle Bouie, a resi- year.” over partisanship, it is dent of Charlottesville and The 1970 filibuster New York Times colum- didn’t just kill it for the time to elect the president nist who testified in favor year. Reformers have of the bill during the last now essentially given up based on the people’s will.” General Assembly session. on the idea of passing — Sen. Adam Ebbin (D-30) “That was the case an amendment to ditch throughout the south, and the Electoral College and the absence of any way to have moved on to other strategies, most notably the count those votes and have them really matter for the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. Originally outcome effectively disenfranchised a large portion, created in 2006, the interstate compact was designed and at one point a majority, of Black voters in the in a way similar to agreements between states to regu- country.” late things like water rights and nuclear waste. Critics worry about what might happen if Virginia “Today, we continue the fight to make sure that ev- were forced to award its electoral votes to a candi- ery vote matters when electing the president,” said date who did not win the commonwealth. If this sys- Pam Berg of the League of Women Voters. “The time tem had been in place in 2000, for example, Virginia has come for our president to be elected in this just would have awarded its electoral votes to Al Gore and simple way. To pass this bill now is to be on the even though George W. Bush won in Virginia. right side of history.” “Seems like there’s no point in having an election,” The winner of the popular vote is usually also the said Del. Israel O’Quinn (R-5). www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v December 17-23, 2020 v 11 News Unusual and Quirky Items Sell at Area Gift Stores Consignment shops and estate sale hubs in the area.
By Mike Salmon Gazette Packet
nowing the story behind the an- tiques and consignments at shops in Mount Vernon is a bonus for the Ksales pitch, especially since George Washington roamed the area at one time. Like Mike and Frank find on the reality show “American Pickers,” the story behind the an- tique is not only a conversation piece, it’s history around here. This happened with Willow Wright at Urban Redeux when a man came in with a haunted chair a few years ago. He told her that “everybody in his family has seen a little boy in this rocking chair,” she said, so she bought it, remembering the story that went along with it. Another customer offered to Photos contributed sprinkle it with holy water, and then the next customer heard the boy ghost story and immediately bought the chair. “Sometimes they want to know the histo- ry behind things so they can also share the story,” Wright said. Urban Redeux started as a mother and It’s something blue in Ashley’s arrangement at her daughter operation featuring Wright and In her home greenhouse, Ashley Greer with a holiday wreath. home in Alexandria. her mother, Wendy Wells-Finn. They loved shopping in these special places that spe- Urban Redeux cialize in estate sales, and took over Urban 8742 Cooper Road, Alexandria, VA 22309 Redeux in 2018; now the store is run entire- 703-780-4301 ly by Wright. She travels to estate sales and https://www.urbanredeux.com/ auctions to get her materials, and isn’t afraid to admit: “I have been dumpster diving as SALE by GALE Showroom well,” she said. www.salebygale/gifts “A little bit of everything is what we carry,” 5605-D General Washington Drive, she added. “Anything that’s related to Mount Alexandria, VA 22312 Vernon or the Capitol sells quickly.” Very unusual set of golf 202-256-5332 The shoppers in Re-Design in a Day be- decanters from SALE by came the gift creators too, and now the GALE Showroom. Re-Design in a Day store is full of local, handmade items that 5942 Fort Hunt Road, scream “one-of-a-kind.” The store is locat- Alexandria, Va 22308 ed in the Hollin Hall Shopping Center and https://redesigninaday.com/ features pottery by Sandra Dalal of Brown 571-371-8417 Fox Pottery; smocks/reusable gift bags by Sue O’Boyle; jewelry by Elizabeth Auld and Evolution Home Lucrecia DeLeon; cork wallets/wristlets by 6239 Shields Avenue Michelle Ludwig and hand turned bar acces- Alexandria, Virginia sories by Maritza Maxwell of Hatch. (703) 519-1911 There are also soaps by TrulyLife, and soy [email protected] candles by Ohhsoygoodness, both are locat- Consignment: ed in Del Ray. “A combination of new and [email protected] locally made, everything has a story,” said store owner Nicole Scott-Howe. Praha Beads and Jewelry Evolution Home is a consignment gift Locally made gifts stock the https://prahabeadsandjewelry.com/ store that features 24 individual stores in- shelves at Re-Design in a Day, At Evolution Home consignment store, glassware 215 S Union St., Suite #8 in Old Town side, conjuring images of the old Thieves located in Hollins Hall. keepsakes are a big seller. Alexandria, VA. Market that was located down the street un- 703-838-5000 or via cell at 703-282-8251 til a fire a few years ago. Evolution was home to St. Claire Appliances cult-favorite, “Lord Jones Limited Edition “Something for everyone here,” said own- before the consignment shop took over. “We Holiday Hemp-Derived CBD Gumdrops,” Atelier Ashley Flowers er Susan Driscoll. do come up with some historic, rare items that come in Sugarplum and Spiced Cran- Text: 301-648-8181 The evolution of Evolution Home takes from time to time,” Driscoll said. berry. “Whether you’re looking for a twist on [email protected] as many turns as the gift selection inside. At SALE by GALE, the owner Gale Cur- a traditional stocking stuffer, a unique place Years ago, it was a bowling alley with 10-pin cio specializes in estate sale items, and has setting at a socially distanced table scape lanes upstairs and duckpin lanes downstairs. a showroom off Edsall Road in Alexandria. or simply a reason to chill, our handmade cember, she’s swamped with orders. She’s Duckpins are lanes that use a small ball, Her quirky items include a Picasso-style Gumdrops offer a bite of holiday magic,” running the on-line business out of her home about the same size as a softball, and small round accent table, an Antique Chinese their selling text reads. Does it get you high? in Alexandria and recently hired a driver, pins that scatter like a group of ducks when Traveling Basket, vintage toys like Tonka “They’re more like for relaxing,” said Ashley but relies on her mother to deliver when the hit with the ball. There aren’t any duckpin truck, Structo cement mixer, a B.O. Silver Greer, the Floral Artisan and CEO at Ashley orders expand. Holiday wreaths are sold out lanes in this area anymore, and the number Mountain train, and an unusual set of golf Flowers. for the pre-order group, and they are taking of 10-pin lanes is becoming a rarity too. decanters in the SALE by GALE Showroom. Ashley Flowers started taking orders for phone orders, but they urge customers not After the bowling alleys were removed, At Atelier Ashley Flowers they have a holiday wreaths in August, and by mid-De- to wait. 12 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v December 17-23, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Calendar Classified WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM To Advertise in This Paper, Call by Monday 11:00 am 703-778-9411 From Page 10 illuminations Announcements Announcements Legals Legals DEC. 19-20 AND 26-27 Mansion House Christmas at Carlyle PUBLIC NOTICE House. 5 to 8 p.m. (tours on the half hour). At Carlyle House, 121 NOTICE OF VOLUNTARY REMEDIATION N. Fairfax St., Alexandria. Discov- er how Christmas was celebrated Pursuant to the Virginia Voluntary Remediation Regulations, Virginia Ad- when the Green family lived at ministrative Code section 9VAC20-160-120, LDA 2395 Mill Rd, LLC (Par- Carlyle House and the Mansion ticipant) with an address of 1400 16th St. NW, Suite 430 Washington, DC House Hotel was being used as a 20036, hereby provides notice of voluntary remediation at the following Civil War hospital. Stay tuned for site (Site): WMATA Mill Road updates about live music. Be sure 2395 Mill Road to check out last minute deals in the Museum Shop. Tours offered Alexandria, Virginia 22314 of the first floor with timed entry VRP Number VRP00716 on the hour and half hour. Space is limited and reservations are Environmental investigations conducted at the property between 2018 and required. All COVID-19 safe- 2019 identified risks associated with future residents coming into direct ty procedures will be in place contact (i.e. dermal and ingestion pathways) with contaminated soils. The during this tour. Admission: $10 site grading and excavation for utility cuts, footings and the foundation per adult; $3 per child; free for may remove much of contaminated soils for offsite disposal. The build- children under 6 years old Tickets ing and associated hardscape (i.e. concrete/asphalt) will prohibit future are available on Eventbrite. Visit employees/occupants from coming into direct contact with underlying novaparks.com. residual contaminated soils. In areas where there is no hardscape, there is the potential for future occupants from coming into direct contact with SATURDAYS/DEC. 19 contaminated soils. The participant has removed the majority of contam- Holiday Candlelight Tours at Lee-Fen- inated material from the site as part of the redevelopment activities. The dall House. 5 to 8 p.m. (tours participant is also proposing to institute engineering controls to mitigate on the half hour). At Lee-Fendall onsite risks to human health. The engineering control includes the use and House, 614 Oronoco St., Alexan- maintenance of hardscape and/or two-foot of clean soil at the surface dria. Celebrate the holiday season across the property. This restrictive covenant will be recorded in the real with evening candlelight tours of property records for the VRP site. the Lee-Fendall House decked out Persons wishing to comment on the voluntary remedial action or request in Victorian splendor. The antique additional information should contact the following person who is familiar toy exhibit will also be on view. with the Site: Space is limited and reservations Michaela Humby are required. Face masks and ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLC social distancing will be in place 14026 Thunderbolt Place, Suite 100 throughout the tour. Admission: Chantilly, VA 20151-3232 $8 per adult; $3 per child; free for 703-471-8400 children under 6 years old. Visit [email protected] leefendallhouse.org
Any person who would like to receive additional information about, or pro- SATURDAY/DEC. 19 Announcements Announcements vide comments on, this VRP project must do so in writing within 30 days Outdoor Choral Music: “Hallelujah!” from the date of this publication. Gospel and Choral Favorites for the Holidays. 2:30 p.m. At The Rectory, 711 Princess Street, Alex- andria. Featuring a wide-ranging Announcements Announcements chamber program by singers of the Camerata Baltimore per- forming excerpts from Handel’s Messiah and Saint-Saëns’ Christ- mas Oratorio and other gospel, spirituals and classical repertoire to celebrate Hannukah, Kwanzaa and Christmas, in a magical, festive, socially-distanced outdoor setting. Concerts at 1 and 2:30 p.m. More details and tickets on website: https://www.classicalmovements. com/secretgardenconcerts-2/
DEC. 20-JAN. 6 Winter Solstice Revels. 7-9 p.m. Online. Kindle the spirit of the season and comfort of “hearth and home” with Washington Revels and the virtual 2020 Winter Solstice Revels. This live participatory holiday event is fun for all ages, with carol singalongs, virtual performances, and more. Cost is $35. Visit the website: https://bit.ly/solstice-revels
DEC. 21-23 Winter Break Camp. 9-11:30 a.m. Online via Zoom. In virtu- al camps, students explore movement and art, words and imagination. They will share and collaborate on movement using Zoom break-out rooms. Prior to camp, students will receive online links to performances and art An expert is someone who knows some packets with print-outs, instruc- of the worst mistakes that can be made tions and supplies. Cost is $90. in his subject and how to avoid them. Visit the website: www.janefrank- -Werner Heisenberg lin.com. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v December 17-23, 2020 v 13 Three Strikes ... Business A Holiday Season Reimagined By KENNETH B. LOURIE Directory ... and now I’m out - of the Handel’s Messiah sweepstakes. The sweepstakes being to write in WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM 50 words or less “Why do you love Handel’s The pandemic Messiah?” All I can answer is one word: Halle- Call 703-549-0004 lujah, and I don’t mean the chorus either. ‘Three for advertising information leads to altered strikes’ refers to the number of times I have now been subjected to this “holiday tradition.” The first time I was an attendee - with thousands of and new traditions. other Washingtonians. in a jam-packed National ELECTRICAL ELECTRICAL By Marilyn Campbell Cathedral one Christmas season. The second Gazette Packet time, while visiting my father-in-law in Manhattan during Christmas, he suggested going to Carnegie Hall to listen to Christmas music (not specified). hen schools adjourn for win- I jumped at the chance to go to Carnegie Hall. ter break the anticipation of Little did I know until I was handed the program a COVID-19 pandemic hol- that the Christmas music that night was Handel’s iday season will become a Messiah. And most recently, I was sitting on my W couch at home channel-surfing when I came reality. As festive gatherings are altered or across a “Handel’s Messiah” rebroadcast from cancelled to help prevent the spread of the some famous venue in Salzburg, Austria featuring disease, many families are faced with the a lead singer, a mistro, an orchestra and choir, all LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING loss of traditions and the challenge of get- Photo by Marilyn Campbell of whom shall remain nameless to protect their ting into the holiday spirit. Activities like biking or hiking can re- stature. Whatever criticism/less than glowing re- action to hearing” Handel’s Messiah” a third time “This year many families will be coping place traditional holiday traditions. should be a reflection on me, not the performers. with not being able to spend the holidays I freely admit my cultural deficiencies. I am with extended family or to travel in the way not inclined to tolerate - too well, these intrusions they usually would,” said Stacie B. Isen- into my rather mundane world. I have never been berg, Psy.D. “Although some may appreciate to the ballet, rarely have seen a play/musical, a break from obligation many may be griev- never attended a concert Summer Cleanup... featuring the Four Italian Seniors (as but one ing the loss of time spent with loved ones, example) and am not so inclined to listen to the as well as missing their usual routines and classics on WETA 90.9 FM in Washington, DC traditions.” either, especially since Dennis Owens retired in Creating new holiday rituals or adjusting 2005. In my defense, I am a card-carrying (Three old ones can help minimize feelings of long- Stooges Fan Club) member of the hoi polloi. And ing and melancholy. “Families can work to- to be perfectly honest, I don’t feel as if I’m any the Photo by Chad Coneway worse for the wear of it - or the why. However, ward recapturing some of these traditions Alexandria-based artist Kathryn Coneway you all might disagree. at home,” said Isenberg. “Perhaps other tra- is using the creative process to redefine I am not a complete dunce though. I can ditions can continue in a modified way such how holidays are celebrated. appreciate the talent and discipline it takes to as baking with Grandma in two separate master the skills necessary to sing, dance, play an kitchens connected by a video call during the “Some fun ideas are reading stories to- instrument, memorize pages of dialogue, et cet- activity. Maybe kids can do Mad Libs or other gether and then acting them out, creating a era. The closest I’ve ever got to enjoying this kind of entertainment occurred at Wolf Trap during the games with their cousins over a call.” scene from the book in a shoebox or playing summer concert season. Twice, if I’m not mistak- Patios & Drainage For those accustomed to traveling during charades with topics related to the story,” en, I attended the yearly July 4th concert when our neighborhood com any since 1987 the holidays, a substitute might be driving, said Patty Howick, education instructor at the National Symphony orchestra performed walking or biking around the neighborhood Marymount University. “Writing a letter to Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture with 105mm can- to look at Christmas lights. A hike through a friend, asking an older relative to share a nons. It’s not exactly equivalent to the old Quaker - - Rock Creek or Great Falls Park might appeal memorable moment in history or taking a Oats puffed wheat commercials of my youth but it was entertaining nonetheless. However, having to families with children from toddlers to walk to observe the changes in nature are now attended a few times, I’m not so inclined to J.E.S. Services teens. some ways to stay connected. Be creative and attend again. And believe it or not, I don’t feel at “To make hikes or walks engaging, adults have fun together.” Free Estimates - Fully Licensed & Insured all diminished having said so. or older children can think ahead about Trade the hustle and bustle that often ac- Planting Landsca ing esign I wouldn’t say that the three experiences I’ve what they may see on the hike or walk,” said company the holidays for projects that offer had listening to “Handel’s Messiah” has thorough- rainage Water Problems Concrete ri e ays, Re lacement or Ne ly convinced me that such cultural forays never Sonia Pruneda-Hernandez, College-Wide opportunities for reflection and contempla- Patios and Wal s Masonry Wor or ry Laid Chair, Early Childhood Education Program tion. “Many of us are used to school concerts be considered again. On the contrary, there is a Pa er, lagstone, ric , any style you choose part of me, a small part, that feels as if I’m missing Retaining alls o all ty es at Montgomery College. “Ask children to or holiday parties and will be missing them something. Still, I don’t feel incomplete, unedu- All work Guaranteed look for birds. ‘How many birds can we find this year,” said Kathryn Coneway, an Alexan- cated or clueless somehow. Instead, I feel like one or hear during our hike or walk?‘ The next dria, Virginia based artist, author, and educa- of the bad guys Clint Eastwood gave an advisory day, focus on animals. ‘Can any animals be tor. https://www.kathrynconeway.com “This to in one of his “Dirty Harry” movies: “punk. A man has got to know his limitations.” And I feel spotted during the hike?’ The following year, perhaps you can take a walk or spend as if I know mine. Perhaps there are cultural areas day, collect leaves, have the children take time in nature, take photographs and share where I could co-exist but I cannot co-exist with a bag with them and find different leaves them with family or friends.” “Handel’s Messiah.” As I titled an earlier column I then return home and help the child iden- One idea that Coneway is trying with wrote for Connection Newspapers while actually tify the leaves and the type of trees each friends this holiday season is using daily attending/hearing “Handel’s Messiah” - for the fell from.” drawing prompts inspired by artist Anna first time, at the National Cathedral one holiday season: “Can’t Handel It Anymore.” In fact, time spent outdoors can improve Brones https://annabrones.com/. The group Two more listens since the original, and I overall mood if holiday weeks off from uses one short phrase offered by Brones each can say with certainty, I still can’t “Handel” it. I school turn sometimes glum or dull. “Physi- day to awaken creativity which they use to thought that when I realized what I was listen- cal exercise gives energy … and helps regu- create a sketch over the course of a day. ing to at home: “Handel’s Messiah,” having the late sleep,” said Jerome Short. “The prompts offer a starting point for a freedom to get up, move around et cetera, might When the weather or circumstances make drawing a day,” Coneway said. “Families possibly enhance the experience. Well, it worked. I didn’t feel the least bit trapped so after listening venturing outside difficult, indoor activities could do them at home together or share for 10 minutes or so, I got up, turned off the tele- like scavenger hunts can preserve holiday with family and friends at a distance and vision, left the room, came into my home-office cheer without health and safety risks. then share through texting or posting pho- and wrote this column. Apparently, I found a way “Hide items throughout the house and give tos.” to” Handel” it after all: stop listening and start the children clues to find items,” said Prune- Creativity can help children and adults stay writing. I feel better already. da-Hernandez. “Items can be simple objects connected to family and customs, suggests Is- Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for that are in the home like toothpaste, with clues enberg. “This unusual time is also an oppor- The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. like ‘What do you use to brush your teeth?’ You tunity to create new traditions or just to have can do a different scavenger hunt every day. new experiences,” she said. 14 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v December 17-23, 2020 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com FOR YOUR TOYOTA
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PERSONALIZED CAR CARE EXPERIENCE 12/31/20.
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