Vol. XXI, No. 34 Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A Connection Newspaper August 26, 2010 Insiders Guide

Ann O’Brien leads General George Washington’s horse,

Nelson, up to the Mansion.

8/27/10

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Photo by Louise Krafft/The Gazette www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 1 2 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mt. Vernon Insider What Makes Mount Vernon Special? By Gerald A. Fill Enjoy the outdoors? Boating, sailing, fishing is at New to Fairfax The Gazette your doorstep on the Potomac River. Jogging and Welcome biking is a popular pastime along the Mount Vernon County? tretching along the Potomac river south of parkway. Canoeing and kayaking is easily accessible his issue of the Gazette The Fairfax County Old Town Alexandria to its southern bor- with marinas offering safe launch from Alexandria Tincludes our annual website provides excellent der, the Occoquan river, Mount Vernon has city to the north, Dyke Marsh, and Pohick Bay re- Newcomers and Com- resources to help get accli- S a small-town feel and provides residents gional park in the south. munity Guide, renamed the In- mated, including registering to vote, licensing animals, with the stability, safety, and comfort of neighborly For low and moderate income families and senior siders Guide. local rules about trash and friendship. This phenomena so coveted by individu- citizens living on fixed incomes, there is an effective Through narrative, listings, recycling, libraries, parks, als and families stressed out by the pressures of social services network to assist residents in need. schools, the Department of viewpoints and photographs, modern day life in the fast lane is due at least in part Senior citizens have the south county government we endeavor to capture what it Motor Vehicles and more: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ to the fact that the people who move here do so be- center on Richmond Highway, and Hollin Hall Se- means to live here, highlights newtofairfax cause they desire the stability and small town atmo- nior Center to provide counseling and recreation and of places to visit and things to sphere, and stay. other services. The new Mount Vernon At Home do, a snapshot of local history, didn’t like about our coverage, For those who desire the cultural, entertainment, (MVAH) provides transportation, social networking, help finding community re- and suggestions for improve- and historic amenities typically available in large and counseling services to help seniors stay in their sources and tips on adjusting to ment. metropolitan areas, Mount Vernon residents are homes and remain independent. Also, Mount Vernon living here. We appreciate readers’ ideas. within minutes of these big city attractions by pub- Hospital provides quality medical care to everyone. If you are new to the If you see something that you lic transit or car. Mount Vernon is largely protected The Potomac River and parkway on the east, the area, you’ll find resources think might be a story, or some- from runaway development by the federally pro- national and state historic sites numbering more than and ideas on these pages thing you have a question tected northeastern boundary, the Mount Vernon any other district in the county, and the community’s and on our website, about, give us a call, or drop us parkway. philosophical bent and desire to preserve and pro- ConnectionNewspapers.com. a line. If you know of a person In addition, the public school system is widely re- tect neighborhoods throughout promises to ensure Even some longtime residents or an organization doing im- garded as one of the best in the nation. Should one that Mount Vernon remains as a special place to live may not have visited portant work, some- choose to send children to a private school there are for the foreseeable future. some of the key places thing that might make numerous options available in Northern Virginia or Below are several residents’ reflections on their in and nearby their a good feature story, the District of Columbia. community. community. we are looking for We offer many more people to feature each resources on our week. Family Friendly website. We want to know if Peggy Frydenlund lives in the There you will find someone in your fam- Oakbrooke community: the complete commu- ily or your community “It is a great place to raise a fam- nity guides for each of published a book, be- ily [she has three children]. Mount

our 15 papers, including more came an Eagle Scout, raised Vernon has a small community Photo by extensive listings than appear in money for a good cause, accom- feel; that’s not true in other areas the newspapers. plished some feat like running of the county and elsewhere in the You can also access the print a marathon or having art in- D.C. area. It is also close to the edition of each of our papers cluded in an art show. We pub- cultural, and social life of Old Gerald A. Fill online, showing each page ex- lish photos and notes of a vari- Town Alexandria and Washington, actly as it appears in the paper, ety of personal milestones and D.C. — one of the reasons we including cover, photos, display community events, including chose to live in Mt.Vernon.” ads and classified advertising. Go births, engagements, weddings, to ConnectionNewspapers.com, anniversaries, awards and obitu- /The Gazette and click on “Print Editions” in aries. We are also interested in Peggy Frydenlund with the red bar. events at your church, mosque, daughter Brittany, and As a locally owned, weekly synagogue, community center, family dog, Jasmine. newspaper, the Gazette’s mis- pool, school, club, etc. sion is to bring the news you Email us a photo and a note need about your community, to about the event. Be sure to in- give you the information you clude the names of all of the Sense of need to enjoy the best things in people who are in a photo, and and near your community, to say when and where the photo Community advocate for community good, was taken. We also publish Kathi McNeil lives in the Stratford- to provide a forum for dialogue notes about news and events On-The-Potomac community: on local concerns, and to cel- from local businesses. Notes “We have access to an incredibly ebrate and record milestones about openings, new employ- rich outdoor environment despite and events in community and ees, anniversaries are welcome. living in a suburban community of people’s lives. It is especially important to us Washington, D.C. For example we to let people know about events have access to a pristine freshwa- AT THE GAZETTE, we invite ahead of time in our calendar Photo by ter wetlands park, Huntley Mead- newcomers to the area and of events. We appreciate getting ows, which is a real treasure. In long-time residents alike to be notice at least two weeks ahead addition, we have available all that a part of providing more reader of the event, and we encourage Gerald A. Fill the Mount Vernon Parkway has to input. Let us know how we’re photos. Events for our calen- offer in terms of park trails, bike doing and let us know what is dars should be free or at nomi- paths, the Potomac river with sail- going on in your part of the nal cost and open to the pub- ing, canoeing, kayaking, and fish- community. If you have ques- lic. In covering the issues, we ing. Children have a wide range tions or ideas, call or send us strive to provide a voice for our /The Gazette of sports offered in the community an e-mail. readers. and at their schools. And finally, We invite you to send letters I look forward to hearing Mount Vernon, despite its being so to the editor or to send an email from you. close to a major city, it retains a letting us know about some- — Mary Kimm, sense of community.” thing you especially liked or [email protected] Kathi McNeil at work at the Martha Washington Library. Continued on page 6 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 3 Mt. Vernon

Insider Fairs SEPTEMBER Confused Identity But Great Place To Live SEPT. 5, 12-5 P.M. International Festival Good Shepherd Catholic Church By Gale Curcio ing in Mount Vernon are within 8710 Mount Vernon Highway 703-780-4055 The Gazette five minutes of a walking or bik- ing trail. Whether it is part of The SEPT. 18, 9 A.M-2 P.M. oogle “Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon Trail or paths that Fall Family & Craft Fair

Virginia” and one will Photo by wind through the woods, there are St. Luke’s Episcopal Church find half of the top 10 plenty of places to run, walk or 8009 Fort Hunt Road G 703-765-4342 searches referring to bike. George Washington’s Mount A gravel and dirt road through Vernon Estate. Is that the only Gale Curcio a sanctuary south of Belle Haven OCTOBER thing in Mount Vernon — or is makes a nice short out-and-back OCT. 2, 9 A.M.-4 P.M. there more? hike from Belle Haven. The Mount Country Fair And what about the mailing ad- Vernon Trail, built in 1973, paral- Pohick Church 9301 Richmond Hwy. dress? While some people use /The Gazette lels the river and the George 703-339-6572 Mount Vernon, VA as their mail- Washington Parkway. ing address (and the mail usually South of Alexandria, just off the OCT. 9, 10 A.M.-3 P.M. gets to them), the correct mailing Potomac River, is Belle Haven, a Fun Fair address is Alexandria, VA. Yet, it picnic park and marina. In the Woodlawn UMC Church is not the same as Alexandria City, 1730s, Scottish merchants traded 7730 Fordson Road Small town parades like this are common throughout but rather a city that just happens tobacco in a warehouse there. The 703-360-9450 Mount Vernon. to be called Alexandria, VA, but is river widens at the mouth of part of Fairfax County. Cameron Run where Great Blue OCT. 16, 9 A.M.-2 P.M. So what is this area called Mount Vernon? dustries, with people providing services like Herons and Snowy White Egrets fish on the Mega Craft Sale Hollin Hall Senior Center To many, it is simply a place called home. It is cake making, dog walking, accounting and tidal mud flats. 1500 Shenandoah Road the best of all worlds — a little piece of subur- more. There is even a Bed & Breakfast located Hydrilla, growing in huge mats visible in the 703-765-4573 bia with proximity to the nation’s Capitol as in Wellington. summer, was once a scourge of boaters. It dis- well as an hour’s ride to the mountains. For more information, visit http://fort- appeared in the 1970s but now is a sign that OCT. 16, 11 A.M.-3 P.M. And because it is bordered by Route One, hunt.info/map-shopping.asp. http://www the river is much healthier. The Dyke Marsh, Annual Fall Fair the Potomac River and Fort Belvoir, the major .ilovebellehaven.com/belleview.asp or http:// further south is now a wildlife refuge where Burgundy Farm Country Day School characteristics remain unchanged. Yes, houses belle-view.info/shopping.asp. more avian residents such as red winged black- 3700 Burgundy Farm are torn down and replaced by megamansions, birds can be seen. 703-960-3431 but there is no worry about major thorough- DINING Motor boaters can take advantage of the fares being built here or major shopping malls One doesn’t have to go far to find a place to launching ramp, while sailors can rent one of NOVEMBER being developed. In fact, it was only a few years eat in Mount Vernon. A few smaller places are the 19' Flying Scots, 14' Sunfish and more. NOV. 6, 10 A.M.-3 P.M. ago that the Mount Vernon Plaza was devel- located throughout the area, including Cedar Others will love the peace and quiet of pad- Winter Wonderland oped, bringing in some new brand-names Knoll, Dishes of India, Mount Vernon Inn, dling a canoe or kayak through Dyke Marsh. St. Rita’s Catholic Church stores. It took years to convince some of these Primo’s, Via Veneto and The Village Wharf. Not only are there two country clubs, but 3815 Russell Road, ALEX retailers to realize that the demographics of There are also a few gourmet stores like there are two recreation centers as well. 703-836-3538 the area could support such retailers. Roseina’s, Hollin Hall Pastry, Sherwood Hall Belle View Country Club has an 18-hole golf Deli and The Italian Gourmet where one can course designed by renowned architect Arthur NOV. 13, 9 A.M.-2 P.M. SHOPPING get homemade treats to go. Hills; a tennis complex with eight outdoor clay Holiday Bazaar Aldersgate United Methodist These larger stores, coupled with the smaller In addition, the portion of Route One that is courts, five DecoTurf indoor courts, and two Church shopping centers dotted throughout Mount located adjacent to Mount Vernon has cuisine outdoor paddle tennis courts; a 2,600-square- 1301 Collingwood Road Vernon, give residents the essentials that they from just about every nation, including the foot fitness center including separate aerobics 703-765-6555 need to survive (at least during a major snow- more common — Mexican, Italian, Greek and and workout rooms equipped with state-of-the- storm) without leaving town. Chinese, but you can also find food from Ethio- art cardiovascular equipment, saunas and NOV. 13, 10 A.M.-3 P.M. Belle View Shopping Center continues to pia, Salvador, Bosnia, Thailand, Afghanistan, steam rooms, all located next to an eight-lane Emmanuel Church Bazaar 1608 Russell Road, ALEX thrive. When one store closes, another one Brazil and more. 25-meter outdoor pool; a beautiful clubhouse 703-683-0798 quickly takes its place. Unwined took over the Old Town, Alexandria, which has a plethora offering formal and casual dining; and a ball- space previously occupied by Keedo, and the of dining establishments, is just 10 minutes to room and meeting room with spectacular views NOV. 13, 8 A.M.-3 P.M. former Dale Photo space is waiting for a new the north, while Washington, D.C., is just 10 of the Potomac River. For more information, Holiday Bazaar tenant. minutes past that. National Harbor, which was visit http://www.bellehavencc.com/. Washington Street United The Virginia Florist has done well at Belle completed across the river a few years ago, Mount Vernon Country Club features an 18- Methodist Church 115 S. Washington Street, ALEX View and will soon open a second space in the continues to add fine dining establishments. hole championship golf course with four tee 703-836-4324 Hollin Hall Shopping Center. This change was And don’t forget Lorton and Occoquan — these selections, from 5,068 to 6,300 yards; a wide precipitated by the closing of The Blossom locations to the south have some lesser known variety of dining facilities in the family Dining NOV. 18, 10 A.M.-2 P.M. Shop earlier in the year. Kevin Greene will take jewels. Room, casual Members’ Grill, outdoor terrace Historic Pohick Church a portion of the space, while the Variety Store Check out the following websites for more overlooking the golf course, pool and golf Christmas Mart will break through and take over the other half, information: course snack bars; a 200-seat ballroom for fam- Pohick Church 9301 Richmond Hwy., Lorton transferring some of the products from The Gift ❖ http://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide- ily celebrations and business functions; and a 703-339-6572 Shop that was at the end of the shopping cen- 11771987-mount_vernon_restaurants-i kid-friendly swimming pool that is open seven ter. That space will now be available and a ❖ http://visitalexandriava.com/ days a week. For more information, visit http:/ NOV. 20, 9:30-4 P.M. nearby tenant is currently in negotiations with ❖ http://www.nationalharbor .com/con- /www.mountvernoncc.org/. Holiday Shop the landlord. sumer/consumer.htm Mount Vernon RECenter has a 25-meter Mount Vernon Unitarian Church We have banks, grocery stores, hair salons, ❖ http://business.intuit.com/boorah-restau- heated indoor pool with poolside spa; a beach 1909 Windmill Lane 703-765-5950 dry cleaners, gas stations, hardware stores and rants/best-of/26834/VA/Lorton.html area with play features; locker rooms with ❖ drug stores. Some establishments, like Village http://mount_vernon-va .yellowusa.com/ showers and sauna; Fitness Center with Cybex NOV. 20, 10 A.M.-4 P.M. Hardware and Hollin Hall Variety Store, have Restaurants.html VR2 equipment; pro shop items for sale; dance Christmas Bazaar been there for years, while others like Initial room; multi-purpose rooms and a year-round St. Mary’s Catholic School Impressions and Rooga’s Sports Essentials, are SPORTS 400 Green Street relatively new. There are plenty of cottage in- Just step out the door and most people liv- See Much To Do, Page 5 703-549-1646

4 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mt. Vernon Insider Rex Reiley RE/MAX Allegiance 703-768-7730 Much To Do in Mount Vernon [email protected]

From Page 4 munity centers. Good Shepherd the CKI Club at NOVA Community Alex/Riverside Estates $514,900 Catholic Church hosts an Interna- College, Alexandria Campus. 3113 Battersea Lane NEW Spectacular Colonial on a great lot back- 200-foot by 85-foot indoor Ice tional Festival every Labor Day and For more information visit http:/ ing to woods. Large Yorkshire model Arena. For more information, visit several of the other churches have /www.mtvernonvakiwanis.org/. LISTING w/2 car garage. Numerous updates thru- http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ fairs in the fall. The Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber out to include kit w/granite counters & parks/rec/mvrec.htm. of Commerce works to promote a bump out, windows, roof, siding, fur- George Washington RECenter NETWORKING successful business climate in nace, gas fpl. Finished basement plus lg hot tub overlooking beautiful & serene has a heated indoor 25-meter pool OPPORTUNITIES south Alexandria and Fairfax back yard. Being Sold “As Is” at a great price! Close to Ft. Belvoir, 5 mins to with a poolside spa; beach and Mount Vernon has several busi- County, provide public policy rep- Reagan National Airport, 30 mins to D.C. & Pentagon. wading area; saunas, showers and ness and civic groups that are open resentation for our members, and Alex/Woodmill Estates $589,900 fully equipped locker rooms; a fit- to the public, among them local support economic revitalization. 8808 Northern Spruce Lane ness area with two treadmills, re- Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, The Chamber sponsors a full OPEN This home is immaculate, meticulous, cumbent and stationary bicycles; Lion’s and Rotary groups. program of activities for members, SUN. 1- 4 & staged like a model. Pride of owner- newly resurfaced lighted tennis Established in 1953, the Mount from business lunches and after- ship abounds! Owners have replaced courts and a picnic area. For more Vernon Kiwanis Club currently hours mixers to breakfast semi- roof, heat pump, windows, & appli- ances. Remodeled baths, refinished information, visit http:// pursues an active range of pro- nars. Business awards, the hardwood floors, painted interior & www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ grams and activities to support the Potomac Classic Golf Tournament, exterior, refinished basement etc. etc…Beautiful sun room, 2 car garage & pro- rec/gwrec.htm. children of the community. It part- scholarships for local high school fessionally landscaped. 5 mins to Ft. Belvoir, 20 to Old Town, 30 to National ners with United Community Min- students, and recognition for pub- Airport & 35 to Pentagon, D.C. – HURRY, won’t last.

ENTERTAINMENT istries (UCM), Good Shepherd lic safety officers are all part of the SUN.OPEN 1-4 Alex./Wessynton $639,900 While much of the action is in Housing, New Hope Housing, and Chamber’s annual program. The 3020 Cunningham Drive NEW Large 5 BR/2.5 BA Colonial with 2-car Old Town, Alexandria or in Wash- Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of PRICE ington, D.C., there is always plenty and sponsors Key Clubs at four Commerce has consistently been garage and full unfinished basement in Mt. Vernon’s premiere contemporary subdivi- to do without leaving Mount high schools, Mount Vernon High recognized as one of the largest sion of Wessynton. This home is priced to Vernon. Both of the high schools School, West Potomac High Chambers in the metropolitan allow some updating. Large covered put on three to four theatrical pro- School, Hayfield Secondary, and area. screened porch off the family room allows you to enjoy your beautiful private back- ductions a year, as well as several South County Secondary. They Members also stay on top of leg yard. Wessynton offers a pool, tennis court, and boat launch that allows quick musical performances. also sponsor the K-Kids Club at access to Potomac River – 5 minutes to Ft. Belvoir, 15 to Old Town, Alex. There is a Children’s Theater Stratford Landing Elementary and See Mount Vernon, Page 21 Alex./Wessynton $765,000 group (Mount Vernon Children’s 3009 Cunningham Drive Community Theater) and even Completely remodeled 5 BR, 3.5 BA Colonial in premiere-contemporary community of one of the local churches, Wessynton. All major systems updated: Aldersgate Church Community kitchen-ceramic tile floor, granite counters, cabinets, sub zero frig, etc., baths, total Theater, has a drama group. HVAC systems, roof & gutters, thermal win- For more information, visit these dows & freshly painted interior. 2-car St. James’ garage. This is “turn key.” Beautiful lot websites: http:// backing to woods. Wessynton offers boat www.acctonline.org/, http:// launch just minutes to Potomac River by boat, tennis & basketball courts, and pool. 5 Episcopal Church minutes to Ft. Belvoir, 15 to Old Town, 25 to National Airport, 30/35 to D.C./Pentagon. www.mvcct.org, http:// www.fcps.edu/WestPotomacHS/ 8 AM - Holy Eucharist - no music Alex/ Mt. Vernon $489,900 departments/drama.html, and All Education programs – 9:00 AM 8424 Washington Avenue OPEN Absolute Cream Puff! Beautiful 3BR, 2BA http://www.fcps.edu/ 10:15 AM - Holy Eucharist - music SUN. 1- 4 Cape Cod /FPL, 3 finished levels & spectacu- MtVernonHS/events_calendar/ lar detached 2 car garage/workshop w/extra index.htmDirected by Mount wide asphalt driveway. Totally updated: kit, 5614 Old Mill Road, Mt. Vernon, Virginia baths, HVAC, energy efficient dbl pane win- Vernon resident Ul James, Wash- dows, refinished hdwd floors on main & ington Metropolitan Philharmonic (Just Outside Ft. Belvoir’s Walker Gate) upper levels, beautiful sun room addition Association (WMPA) is a not-for- w/separate HVAC. Finished walkout basement, interior painted, screened porch-spectacu- profit organization of musicians Office: 703-780-3081 lar.42 landscaped lot. 5 mins to Ft. Belvoir, 15 Huntington Metro/Old Town, 35 to D.C. and music lovers dedicated to www.StJamesMV.org Alex./Wessynton $664,900 making high-quality musical per- 3008 Sevor Lane Large, meticulously maintained 5 BR, 3.5 BA formances and opportunities ac- Colonial w/2-car garage & finished bsmt in Mt cessible to the community. Vernon’s premiere contemporary Wessynton. Pride of ownership is apparent: exterior WMPA is comprised of several painted in ’06, HVAC systems all replaced in major programs, including three past 5 yrs. Beautiful carpet over hdwd floors throughout main & upper levels. Large pictur- orchestras, a free summer concert esque windows over look beautiful landscap- series, concerto and composition ing. Lower level has rec room, den, 2 storage rms, & bath w/large jacuzzi tub. Wessynton offers pool, tennis, basketball courts & boat competitions, and a volunteer launch. 5 minutes to Ft. Belvoir, 15 to Old Town, 25 to Ntl Airport & 30/35 to D.C./Pentagon. guild; performances are offered in Alex./Bucknell Manor $338,500 nearby Alexandria. For more infor- 6932 Vanderbilt Drive mation, visit http:// Stunning & meticulous 2 level www.wmpamusic.org/. Cape Cod loaded w/updates: In the summer, there are con- • Nearby and open 24/7 kit, both baths, double pane certs at Fort Hunt Park (http:// • No risk, no hassles - pay monthly replacement windows & www.nps.gov/gwmp/fort- • FREE instruction and workout plan washer & dryer on upper level. hunt.htm) and Grist Mill Park • Stae-of-the-art training equipment Roof in ‘03, siding in ‘04 & (http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ • 30-day money-back guarantee Save $149 Get Faster, Better Results A/C in ‘07. Lg gorgeous bkyd w/newer privacy fence. Mins to 3 Personal shopping & Huntington Metro, 25 mins to Ft. Belvoir. parks/performances/mtvernon- Alexandria–Old Town FREE Training $ nights.htm). 1315 King Street ENROLLMENT Sessions Hurry, offer valid for first 50 new members 99 For more information: 703-299-9499 Hurry, offer valid for first 50 new members Fall is a great time to take ad- Offer expires September 30, 2010 Offer expires September 30, 2010 Bonus Offer! King Street between West & Payne St Get Fit Today! Limit one per household. No cash value. Access Limit one per household. No cash value. Access www.RexReiley.com vantage of the many fairs that are card fee, other fees and some restrictions may card fee, other fees and some restrictions may Stop by, call or visit apply. Valid only for local residents on first visit apply. Valid only for local residents on first visit Each Office Independently Owned and Operated hosted by local churches and com- www.snapfitness.com at participating clubs. ©2009 Snap Fitness, Inc. at participating clubs. ©2009 Snap Fitness, Inc. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 5 Mt. Vernon Insider What Makes Mount Vernon Special? What’s Ahead For Mount Vernon? By Gerald A. Fill Mount Vernon Hospital. In ad- The Gazette dition, plans by the Inova Health System are well under ecause of the decision to way in Lorton to create a Bclose Walter Reed hospi- Lorton Health Plex which will tal and transfer some of provide walk-in emergency and its functions to Fort Belvoir, and outpatient clinical health ser- to transfer military functions vices and serve as a southern formerly assigned to other mili- referral for in-patient services tary bases in the region, Fort at Mount Vernon Hospital. Belvoir is at the epicenter of one ❖ Several applications to of the major forces affecting not erect these cell phone towers, J. Dan Convery, Jr. and his only Mount Vernon but north- which will help facilitate cell Tom Harvey Bill Campbell daughter, Gabi ern Virginia. phone reception locally, have When construction is com- been submitted to the Planning It’s Unique Matter of Access Much To Do pleted some time in 2011, an Commission for approval. Resi- Tom Harvey, lifelong resident of Fort Bill Campbell lives in Mason Hill J. Dan Convery, Jr., resident of the estimated 19,000 additional dents immediately adjacent to Hunt community and local busi- community: Yacht Haven community: employees will be employed at the proposed sites have gener- nessman: “The immediate access to the sce- “It is a great place to raise chil- Fort Belvoir. A new $807 mil- ally opposed the monopoles “The great people, and the nic beauty and outdoor activities dren. I have lived and worked here lion state-of-the-art hospital, while conceding their need. small-town atmosphere that is of the Mount Vernon Parkway. Also, all my life. Mount Vernon is safe, new wounded warriors transi- Applicants have offered finan- unique to our community and un- I enjoy the people in the commu- quiet, but has a lot of things to do tion rehabilitation center, and cial incentives to the Park Au- like anything else in northern Vir- nity. We are close to the history and in Mount Vernon and the sur- a new child development cen- thority and Fairfax County ginia. In my view it is the best kept culture of Old Town Alexandria and rounding area.” ter among other functions will school system to gain approval secret in the region.” our nation’s capital. For example, I be added. for construction on public land. recently visited the Smithsonian’s ❖ A new national museum of ❖ Because of past experience History museum … all this is avail- the U.S. Army will be built in having their basements able to Mount Vernon residents.” nearby to Fort Belvoir on Route flooded and with no near-term 235. Initial construction cost protection being offered, Hun- estimates are $200 million. It tington Avenue-area residents Area Offers Year-Round Activities will attract tens of thousands of may set aside their status as a By Holly Hicks Dougherty visitors annually. Its presence conservation district in order to This area has it all and when you live here, you Executive Director can enjoy the history, culture, and recreation in all will impact the area’s transpor- allow builders to redevelop the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce tation, hotel and motel require- area. This older neighborhood seasons. Then when you need a service or product ments, and commercial func- is within walking distance of use a chamber of commerce business for a local con- wonderful benefit of living in the Mount nection to your community. tions to accommodate the new the Huntington metro transit Vernon area is close access to historical, cul- influx of visitors from around station and therefore a prime A Insider's Tip: Even though you have an Alexandria tural, and recreational resources that can be mailing address, you live in Fairfax County. Every- the country. target for redevelopment. enjoyed throughout the seasons of the year. ❖ ❖ thing south of the Beltway is Fairfax County, with a The Mount Vernon Ladies North Hill Affordable George Washington’s Mount Vernon is a world- Association, which manages the Housing Project Plans are un- different system of government and public services. class asset and has activities and events that high- There is no restaurant tax south of the Beltway. George Washington estate, will derway and the Board of Su- light seasonal offerings. Gunston Hall, Woodlawn construct a library adjacent to pervisors is expected to ap- Plantation, and Gum Springs the existing estate of President prove a plan to build affordable Historical Society also have Photo by George Washington. The library housing units at North Hill events that both entertain will include a convention cen- along Richmond Highway. and inform and should be a ter which will be open approxi- These housing units will be part of every calendar, along

Gerald A. Fill mately 220 days a year. available to qualified appli- with the regular tours. ❖ The Board of Supervisors cants with an annual income The “Colonial Market & authorized $3 million to design over $50,000. Fair” at Mount Vernon on a Route 1 expansion from four Sept. 18-19, features 18th lanes to six lanes, anticipated IN ADDITION to the above Century crafts and entertain-

/The Gazette to be completed by 2014-15. developments, land use plan- ments and is a delightful ex- The work includes expanding a ning has been one of the single perience for the whole fam- Dougherty two-mile stretch of the highway most overarching subjects of ily. The “Teas and Tours” at beginning at Route 235 south attention for local county gov- Woodlawn Plantation are popular events and tick- to the Fairfax County Parkway ernment officials and the ef- ets often sell out. The March Kite Festival at Gunston along with a median and turn- forts of affected volunteer com- Hall is considered one of the best events in the Metro Jim White with seniors companion Shirley around lane. This section will munity leaders. All are collabo- area. Bowman. run through Ft. Belvoir and will rating to keep up with devel- The Lorton Arts Workhouse is fast becoming a bea- be designed to handle the in- opment needs and events con for arts of all types including music, dance, and Many Friends creased traffic brought on by Ft. which will affect transportation visual arts. The professionalism of the performances Jim White, a former electrical inspector for the county, Belvoir expansion. and other infrastructure de- and activities blends nicely with the restored his- ❖ has lived in Mount Vernon all of his life. The Inova Health System mands. Here is a partial repre- torical site. “I am very comfortable here, and have lots of recently announced an invest- sentative list of proposed land Recreational opportunities are found at the Belle friends. There is a lot to do that the county offers ment of $43.6 million to ex- use plans affecting Mount Haven Marina, Woodlawn Stables, and Pohick Bay that, if one wants to, is readily available such as pand the number of services Vernon district: Regional Park. Sailing, kayaking, horseback riding, See What’s Ahead, Page 9 music concerts, activities at the Hollin Hall senior and in-patient beds of the Inova camping, swimming and picnicing are all found in a center, etc.” lush natural setting. 6 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mt. Vernon Insider

Hidden Gems Hollin Hills Five must-see attractions in the Mount Vernon area.

By Dylan Yep

Photos by The Gazette

Newcomers should plan on visiting these local sites: Louise Krafft

POPE-LEIGHEY HOUSE Designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the Pope-Leighey House was commissioned by journalist Loren Pope in /Gazette 1939. In 1964, it was donated by Marjorie Leighey to the National Trust for Historic Preservation and later moved from Falls Church to where it now sits on Woodlawn Plantation. The Usonian style house fea- tures Wright’s innovative designs in a mod- ter with exhibits, classroom and auditorium. Parkway. estly-sized single-family home. Open until A vast array of wildlife can be seen at Hunt- Dec. 20 from ley Meadows including HOLLIN HILLS Thursday until beavers, frogs, and The Hollin Hills neighborhood is com- Monday, 10 a.m. more than 200 species prised of approximately 450 houses de- to 5 p.m. All visi- of birds. At 3701 signed in the 1940s by Charles M. tors must be ac- Lockheed Blvd, Alexan- Goodman, designer of Washington National companied by a dria. Visit Airport, and landscape architect Dan Kiley, guide. Tours are www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ co-designer of the St. Louis Gateway Arch. provided every parks/hutnley for more The modern designs were ahead of their 30 minutes until information. time. Nestled into the hilly woods, the 4 p.m. General homes are simple and streamlined and fea- admission $8.50 FORT HUNT PARK ture large expanses of glass. The neighbor- for adults and $5 Open from dawn un- hood can be found is in the Fort Hunt area for children (K- Photo courtesy of Woodlawn Plantation til dusk year-round, Fort off of Fort Hunt Road. 12). Visit Pope Leighey House Hunt Park has a storied popeleighey1940.org history. It has evolved MOUNT VERNON SLAVE BURIAL for more infor- from being a part of GROUND AND MEMORIAL mation. At 9000 Richmond Highway, Alex- George Washington’s farm to a Spanish- While the Mount Vernon Estate is far from andria. American War coastal fortification to the a secret, the Slave Burial Ground and Me- setting for top-secret WWII military intelli- morial is easy to miss. Located near Geroge HUNTLEY MEADOWS PARK gence operations to the popular picnic area Washington’s tomb is a burial ground used Huntley Meadows At 1,425 acres, Huntley Meadows Park is it is now. The park features the remains of by slaves and free blacks in the 18th and the largest park in Fairfax County. The park several of the fort’s original batteries, a sum- 19th centuries. It is estimated that the cem- features a half-mile wetland board walk mer concert series, athletic fields, a play- etery holds as many as 75 graves although honoring those who served as slaves at trail, a hike-bike trail, an observation tower ground, and a beautiful setting to run, bike there are no markers to identify the people Mount Vernon. The words Love, Hope, and and wildlife observation platforms, an in- or walk a dog. Fort Hunt Park is 6 miles buried there. In 1983, Howard University Faith are inscribed on theºsteps of the me- terpretative trail system, and a visitor’s cen- south of Old Town Alexandria along the GW students designed and erected a memorial morial.

Find us on Seeking a Liberal Religious Home? Facebook and Come visit us at Mount Vernon Unitarian Church where both your heart and mind are appreciated! become a fan! Everyone is welcome! www.Facebook.com/ We warmly invite you to worship with us! Religious education for children and adults connection Award-winning social justice program newspapers St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Services at 9:30 and 11:15 beginning Sept. 12 6744 S. King’s Hwy., Alexandria, VA 22306 (Summer at 10 am only)

Sunday services at 8 and 10 a.m. Children’s Chapel and Sunday School Adult education at 9 a.m. at 10 a.m. during the school year. Nursery care provided during the 10 a.m. service. E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 703/765-3949 www.mvuc.org • 703-765-5950 www.stmarksalex.org www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 7 Mt. Vernon Early History of Insider Fort Hunt Park ocated on the Potomac River L11-1/2 miles south of Wash- ington, Fort Hunt Park’s 105 grassy acres provides hours of enter- tainment and relaxation for thou- Walking Alongside History sands of Mount Vernon’s residents and visitors each year. Except for the Compiled by Gerald A. Fill crumbling remains of four Endicott- The Gazette era batteries, the decrepit shell of an old fire control station, and an old he Mount Vernon District in- vacant house, there is nothing to in- cludes Mount Vernon, Fort dicate the park’s long and diverse Belvoir, Lorton, Mason Neck history. Seldom has one geographi- T cal area been put to so many differ- and parts of southeast Spring- field, representing a population of approxi- ent uses as has Fort Hunt. During its mately 117,000 within 60 square miles. It relatively short lifetime, it has served is one of eight magisterial districts in Fairfax as a farm; a coastal defense fort; an County. Bordered by the Potomac River on Army Finance school; a supply depot; the east, the district contains some of the a brigade headquarters, an ROTC county’s most beautiful wetlands and parks, training camp; a hospital for indigent the majority the county’s historic sites, as Bonus Marchers; a Civilian Conser- well as endless venues for biking, hiking, vation Corps (CCC) camp; a National and boating and fishing. Few areas of the Park Service exhibition lab; a moni- county offer as many diverse recreational toring station for the Army Signal opportunities. Corps; a top secret interrogation cen- Fairfax County and the Mount Vernon dis- ter for German prisoners of war; and trict were home to the Indians for over 1500 a film storage vault for the National years before Captain John Smith sailed up Archives. the Potomac River and began to map the Fort Hunt was originally a part of areas along the riverbank. When he arrived the River Farm, one of the five farms in 1608 the Moyumpse or Dogue tribe pre- that comprised George Washington’s dominated. Tauxemont, their main village, 5,000-acre Mount Vernon estate was located in Mason Neck where they lived which was acquired by a grant to in long houses and raised corn, beans, John Washington, the great-grandfa- squash and tobacco. The Potomac River ther of George Washington, in April provided an ample supply of fish and shell- 1669. It was kept as farmland until fish. 1892 when the War Department pur- During the Susquehannock War in 1675, chased the land for use as a fort to The Moyumpse sided with the defend Washington, D. C. Construc- Susquehannocks in a losing cause against tion on Fort Hunt began in 1897 as a the colonists. When the war ended they left result of concern over America’s in- the area along with the Susquehannocks creasingly poor relations with Spain. who were driven out of their villages on the Once war was declared in March Maryland side of the Potomac. The colonists 1898, 48 men from the Fourth Coast

Photo by Louise Krafft/ Gazette took over these villages and farmlands Artillery were stationed at the fort in where they continued to grow the same order to guard the installation. The crops and fished and hunted just as they troops lived in tents until permanent had learned from the Indians. quarters were completed in1899. Kings Charles II was exiled to Europe Construction of concrete emplace- during the English Civil War in 1649, Dur- ments of a battery for three 8-inch, ing his exile, King Charles granted all of the breech-loading disappearing rifles land between the Potomac and began in 1897. Rappahannock Rivers to seven of his loyal On April 13, 1899, President supporters. By 1690 all of this land was McKinley designated this area as Fort controlled by Lord Fairfax. Thomas, sixth Hunt, in honor of Major-General Lord Fairfax, arrived in Virginia in 1737, Henry J. Hunt, United States Army. General George Washington, Dean Masilla, greets visitors to the estate Hunt was an artillery officer with a installed his cousin William as his land on the occasion of the General’s birthday. agent, and by 1745 his proprietary extended distinguished record of service dur- to 5,282,000 acres. ing fathers who fought to add the Bill of county seat was moved from Alexandria to ing the Mexican War and the Civil William Fairfax built the Belvoir mansion Rights to the Constitution and authored the Fairfax City in 1800. Farming and the War. in 1741 on the Potomac River which is now Virginia Declaration of Rights, lived south economy began to decline. Over 4,000 The armaments at Fort Hunt were the site of the present day Ft. Belvoir. In of Mount Vernon in Gunston Hall overlook- slaves were sold to plantation owners in the not completed until January 1904. 1742 he cut a portion of the proprietary ing Gunston Cove in Mason Neck. His home deep South. The 1840s brought the begin- They consisted of the Mount Vernon away from Prince William County and is preserved as a historic site today. ning of an economic recovery when north- Battery with three 8-inch rifles; Bat- named it after his cousin, Lord Fairfax. In 1790, the first census lists Fairfax ern farmers known as “Yankees of Fairfax” teries with three 3-inch rapid fire County with a combined white and black began buying cheap farmland which they guns; and Batteries Porter and FAIRFAX COUNTY was primarily an agri- population of 12,000. Earlier in 1782 41 largely farmed with white labor or slaves, Robinson, each of which mounted a cultural area where tobacco was farmed by percent of the population consisted of using such new farming methods as fertil- 5-inch rapid fire gun. On May 25, slaves. Plantations were built along the slaves. The Virginia General Assembly ceded izer and crop rotation. The fields came back, 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt Potomac, the most notable of them, Mount a portion of Fairfax County to the District but the recovery was snuffed out by the Civil named these Batteries in honor of the Vernon which was acquired by George Wash- of Columbia in 1791. A portion of this land War which destroyed much of northern Vir- fallen soldiers who bear their names. ington in 1735. By the time Washington died was later returned in 1847. This area be- ginia — Bull Run, Ox Hill, St. Mary’s The guns, with their stone and con- in 1799, Mount Vernon had grown to 8,000 came Arlington County and a part of the Church, Frying Pan Meetinghouse, Fairfax crete pits banked with sod, were acres, and was farmed by over 300 slaves. City of Alexandria. Courthouse — all are famous sites of bloody about 100-feet lower than those of See Fort Hunt, Page 10 George Mason, another of America’s found- Tobacco farming depleted the soil and the See History, Page 10

8 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mt. Vernon Insider Come home to Andersen© Don’t Overlook Senior Center By Ann Connell (Council members are behind the ever-popular An- President, Advisory Council, Hollin Hall nual Bazaar and wonderful Silent Auction, which are Senior Center well supported by our local businesses each Octo- ber, and not to be missed!) n a recent issue of the Mount Vernon Gazette, Classes, clubs, programs and activities are prima- ISupervisor Gerald Hyland sponsored a workshop rily organized and led by many talented and dedi- and bus tour in connection with the Mount cated volunteers and you just wish there was more Vernon District Visioning Task Force. In his remarks, time to take advantage of all that’s offered. For ex- he said he “would like to see more facilities like the ample, with over 100 activities, there are at least six Hollin Hall Senior Center open in other areas … we levels of computer classes, four different bridge groups, have to make sure all of our seniors have something eight types of exercise groups, including Tai Chi, four available to them like this.” different dance classes and the list goes on and on. This Center is truly a hidden gem that seems yet For anyone 55 and over, the Hollin Hall Senior to be discovered! With its 28th anniversary, Hollin Center, known as “The Clubhouse of Senior Centers” Hall now has over 700 registered and active mem- is a fun place to be! The annual fee is $48 and they’re bers which increases to approximately 1,800 with located at 1500 Shenandoah Road, Alexandria. I love • Replace with Original 400 SERIES Andersen Windows all the various clubs that continue to meet there. the fact that this Center is conveniently located right • Entire Window Frame, Sill & Trim Replacement The staff is excellent, headed by Julie Ellis, the here in the Hollin Hall, Mount Vernon area, and • Tilt-Easy Cleaning • High-Performing Glass director, and the 12-member Advisory Council. events are always going on. • Maintenance-Free Fibrex Sills • Grille Options Available What’s Ahead for Mount Vernon? Andersen Warranty • Professional Installation • Free Estimate From Page 6 tion center at the southwest cor- ginning in September for an even- POST BUILDERS, INC ❖ North Gateway Community ner of Huntington Avenue and tual vote by the board. Passage of Business Center; Route 1. these nominations to amend the 703-780-1051 ❖ Kings Crossing Business Cen- These and other Mount Vernon- Comprehensive Plan will set in NAT-67980-1 ter: Walmart is already construct- Route 1 impacted proposed land motion development plans affect- ing a store at this site. use planning amendments to the ing the scope and character of ❖ Mt. Vernon Governmental Comprehensive Plan will be taken Route 1 and the Mount Vernon Dis- Center Complex; up by the Board of Supervisors be- trict for many years to come. ❖ Justice Snowden Farm on Parkers Lane; ❖ Village Town Center at the Smitty’s Lumbertaria Site on Route 1; Bark Avenue ❖ Convert the former Mount Vernon High School on Route 1 Pet Spa now used as the Islamic Saudi 8727-E Cooper Road Academy to house a variety of Alexandria, VA 22309 non-profit organizations. The Is- lamic Academy is scheduled to 703-360-7177 move to another part of the county in the near future. • Full Service • Premium Foods ❖ Pet Grooming Verus Hybla Valley/Gum Springs Com- Merrick munity Business Center to be com- • Walk-in Nail Trim Innova patible with the Little Hunting Creek EVO, Watershed Management Plan; • Teeth scaled without Chicken Soup ❖ Beacon/Groveton Business anesthesia California Natural Center to be developed consistent with storm water runoff recom- Call for an Appointment mendations; Mention Ad for $10 off Grooming – one per Household ❖ A high-rise hotel and conven-

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 9 A staircase Mt. Vernon inside Insider Gunston Hall History From Page 8 tion. Roads were built and the county slowly began to climb its way out of another poor battles or skirmishes. economy. This new bedroom community began to prosper once again. The popula- AFTER THE CIVIL WAR many freed tion ballooned from 40,000 in 1940 to over slaves and soldiers who fought in the war 1,000,000 people today. Fairfax County has Photos by Louise Krafft/The Gazette decided to remain and make this area their become one of the nation’s wealthiest, larg- home. The economy began to recover and est, and best educated counties sitting just Fairfax began to prosper, particularly in the at the edge of the nation’s capital. area of dairy farming. For more information on the Mount The 1930s brought the Depression, the Vernon District go to http://www.fair New Deal and the beginning of electrifica- faxcounty.gov/mountvernon/ Early History of Fort Hunt Park George Mason, one of America’s founding fathers, lived south of Mount Vernon in Gunston Hall overlooking Gunston Cove in From Page 8 Anthony Eden, former Foreign Minister of Mason Neck. Great Britain, that he visited the camp in Fort Washington, just across the river in December 1938 and requested a copy of the Maryland. The firing system remained in- plan for the conversion of the Fort Hunt area efficient until a primary range-finding sta- to recreational usage. Early History of Hollin Hall tion, a fire-control system, a 60-inch search- Fort Hunt again received national atten- light, a tide observing station, and an elec- tion when the King and Queen of Great Brit- any Mount Vernon residents sion situated on a 600-acre estate near tric lighting plant were added in 1905. The ain visited it during June 1939. They were Mthink of Hollin Hall as a the Potomac River. Lavish entertainers, fort never contained more than one com- accompanied by the President and Mrs. neighborhood in Mount The Wilsons’ guests included Carl pany of 109 men. Roosevelt. Vernon district. In modern times they Sandburg, Herbert Hoover, Mrs. Garrison life was uneventful except for During World War II, 230 acres of the fort would be correct. However, they may be Woodrow Wilson, and other prominent changes in command. During World War I, were set aside for secret intelligence activi- surprised to learn that the original Hollin Americans. the War Department declared the fort su- ties until 1946 when the War Department Hall was not a place, but a home and Their new mansion was appointed perfluous. The guns were dismantled dur- decided to move the Intelligence Division part of a 2000-acre plantation. Located with teak floors imported from Japan ing 1917 and 1918 and transferred to other to Mitchell Field. A small security detach- near Sherwood Hall Lane the house was and furnished with museum-quality an- forts, but a small garrison remained at Fort ment remained to guard the “classified” built in 1792 by Thomas Mason, son tiques. Their guests swam in a shell- Hunt. The War Department established a materials until the War Department de- Revolutionary War figure George Mason shaped pool, strolled along winding Finance School at the now-obsolete fort in clared the fort surplus property on Nov. 15, who had owned the land since 1750. It brick paths, lush gardens, and slept in a 1921, and by 1923 the garrison of the post 1946. The last troops left on Nov. 23, 1946. was fashioned after a family home in brick guest house was manned by only two officers and eight In January 1948, the Museum Division Yorkshire, England. After the Wilsons’ death in 1934, the men. of the National Park Service moved the labo- The house burned down in 1827. The house and 89 acres were purchased by The abandonment of Fort Hunt was ap- ratory from the Ford’s Theatre building to property was later purchased in 1852 by Roosevelt advisor, Merle Thorpe. The proved on April of 1923. The cost to the Fort Hunt. Exhibits and dioramas for the Edward Curtis Gibbs, a Quaker sea cap- Mount Vernon Unitarian Church later Government of the fort from 1897 until Museums at the Manassas National Battle- tain and farmer. Gibbs cultivated the land purchased Hollin Hall and 10 acres in June 30, 1922, amounted to $309,725.55. field Park, Virginia, and the Guilford Court- employing both black and white farm- 1959. While the pool no longer exists Control of the fort passed through many house National Military Park, North Caro- ers , thus demonstrating that plantations and the guest house is now a private hands during the ensuing years and even- lina, were partially completed here. This could be made profitable without the use home, the windmill, greenhouse and tually was returned to the War Department. unit also worked on projects for the Atomic of slave labor. carriage house remain. In 1933 development of Fort Hunt as a rec- Energy Commission. The Department of the After a succession of owners, Mr. and Holin Hall was placed on the Fairfax reation area with picnic grounds and camp- Interior and U.S. Park Police replaced the Mrs. Harley Wilson completed construc- County Registry of Historic Sites in 1993 ing facilities began. A museum laboratory guards, and members of the fire department tion of a new Hollin Hall in 1919. The and is located at 1909 Windmill Lane in where exhibits and models were con- were removed by the War Department on new home was a Colonial Revival man- Alexandria, Va. structed attracted so much interest from June 30, 1948.

Mount Vernon Primary Care Associates proudly welcomes Allison Valentine, M.D. to our practice as of September 2010. DOING THE Dr. Valentine is a graduate of The University of North Carolina, Chapel MOST GOOD SM Hill, NC. She completed her residency at Fairfax Family Practice in Fairfax, VA. Dr. Valentine grew up in North Carolina and moved to Northern Virginia for her residency training in 2007. Her professional interests include prevention and wellness, women’s health, and a holis- Alexandria School for tic approach to health and life. Outside of work, she spends much of the Perfoming Arts her time running, cycling, swimming, and practicing yoga. Classes in guitar, piano, brass, voice, To schedule an appointment with Dr. Valentine, dance, percussion & drama please contact our office at 703-799-4000. 703-836-2427 Mount Vernon Primary Care Associates, PLLC 8101 Hinson Farm Road, Suite 417 • Alexandria, VA 22306 Registration now open. Less than $7/Class 703-799-4000 • www.MVPCA.net 10 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 11 Opinion

www.MountVernonGazette.com Residents reflect on Newspaper of Mount Vernon Living in Mount Vernon their community. An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered ere are some thoughts on what unteer through school, church, or the commu- to homes and businesses. makes Mount Vernon special: nity. It’s a great way to meet people and make 1606 King Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314 H a difference. History everywhere. So Dog Friendly. The va- TRISH FINERAN, riety of houses of worship. NEWS DEPARTMENT: Waynewood: MARYBETH POWERS: To discuss ideas and concerns, Call: 703--778-9410 What do you love about Mount What do you love about Mount What “insider’s tip” about Alexandria e-mail: Vernon? Vernon? would you share with a friend? [email protected] My husband and I enjoy walking along Mt. The beautiful ride up the parkway from Old The birthday party for Alexandria on the Steven Mauren Vernon Trail daily. Everyday it’s different; Town to Mount Vernon — especially in the Fall. waterfront, the weekend following the 4th of Editor, 703-778-9415 [email protected] people we pass and greet (other walkers, bik- July, with performance by the Alexandria Sym- ers, runners), changes in foliage, the tides, What “insider’s tip” about Mount phony Orchestra. Saturday morning Market Michael Lee Pope Reporter, 703-615-0960 animal sightings, and activity on the river. We Vernon would you share with a Square Farmer’s Market in Old Town, or Tues- [email protected] appreciate having the proximity to the more friend? day morning on Sherwood Hall Lane. Mt. Steve Hibbard urban areas for convenience (shopping, enter- Visit Mount Vernon Estates to learn about Vernon Estate. Visit the various churches. Associate Editor, 703-778-9412 tainment, transportation options), but love the our history. Enjoy a walk in Fort Hunt Park. [email protected] tranquility of our community and the friends What advice would you give a new Julia O’Donoghue we have made there. What advice would you give a new resident on how to make themselves Education & Politics, 703-778-9436 [email protected] resident on how to make themselves at home and get involved here in What “insider’s tip” about Mount at home and get involved here in Alexandria? Jon Roetman Sports Editor, 703-224-3015 Vernon would you share with a Mount Vernon? Get on the bike trails, get a kayak for the [email protected] friend? Become “Friends of Mount Vernon” and if river, join a tennis club, take a course at the Don’t miss the Saturday morning Yard Sales! they have children, get involved with the local Torpedo Factory, train a Guiding Eye Dog with ADVERTISING: To place an advertisement, call the ad For an adventure, follow the signs ... It’s a great sports organization — Fort Hunt Youth Ath- the local chapter of Guiding Eyes for the Blind. department between 9 a.m. and way to learn your way around the area and letic Association. Volunteer at one of the community out- 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. meet new people along the way! reaches, Red Cross, or be a docent for Mount Display ads 703-778-9410 ANN VERNON: Vernon or one of the historical places in Old Classified ads 703-778-9411 Employment ads 703-778-9413 What advice would you give a new What do you love about Alexandria? Town Alexandria. Become involved in wor- resident on how to make themselves The waterfront and all the streets of Old ship, music, and fellowship in one particular Julie Ferrill Display Advertising, 703-778-9446 at home and get involved here in Town. The fact that it has its own Symphony church: I recommend Aldersgate United Meth- [email protected] Mount Vernon? Orchestra. Market Square on Saturday morn- odist Church in the Fort Hunt area of Mt. Helen Walutes Get involved; look for opportunities to vol- ing. The Royal Restaurant. Old Town shopping. Vernon. Display Advertising, 703-224-3028 [email protected] Letters to the Editor Andrea Smith Dyke Marsh provides ecological MVCCA Record required in their down each time, never once invit- Classified Advertising, 703-778-9411 National [email protected] services: flood control, water qual- bylaws. ing Mr. Beltrante to appear before ity enhancement, habitat, fish 2. They elected Elizabeth Mar- the committee to make a presen- Barbara Parkinson Treasure Employment Advertising nursery, shoreline stabilization and tin chairman of their Environment tation. 703-778-9413 recreational opportunities. & Recreation Committee in viola- 6. Six MVCCA affiliated people [email protected] Right Here It’s been excavated, dumped in tion of their bylaw provision for- were appointed to the 2009-2010 To the Editor: and invaded by exotics. Com- bidding members of their Board of Area Plans Review (APR) Task Publisher Many newcomers view Northern Jerry Vernon mendably, the U. S National Park Directors (which includes Com- Force by Supervisor Hyland to con- Virginia as a suburban sea of tract Service is moving to restore dam- mittee Chairmen) from also serv- sider nominations to the Compre- Editor & Publisher homes, dense development, shop- Mary Kimm aged areas. ing in policy-making Boards of the hensive Plan. Although the MVCCA ping malls and traffic jams. The Dyke Marsh Wildlife Pre- County. Ms. Martin is a member presented over a dozen such nomi- Editor in Chief I hope they realize that we are Steven Mauren serve is “the nearest thing to pri- of the County Wetlands Board, just nations to the Task Force, none of Photography: blessed with a natural jewel, meval wilderness in the immedi- such a policy-making board. the MVCCA affiliated people re- Louise Krafft which former U. S. Senator John Art/Design: ate vicinity of the city,” wrote natu- 3. They passed budget resolu- cused themselves from considering Geovani Flores, Laurence Foong, Warner called “a magnificent little ralist Louis Halle in 1947. New- tions the past two years advocat- the MVCCA nominations. See: John Heinly, Wayne Shipp, oasis.” It is the Dyke Marsh Wild- John Smith comers’ lives can be enriched by ing raising taxes during a severe http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ Production Manager: life Preserve on the banks of the the few remaining natural areas recession instead of recommend- dpz/apr/2009southcounty/ Jean Card Potomac River in the Mount like Dyke Marsh that have not ing appropriate budget cuts. task_force_meetings_table.htm Vernon area of Fairfax County, just fallen prey to the bulldozer and 4. They continued forward with 7. The MVCCA made a nomina- CIRCULATION: 703-778-9427 south of Old Town Alexandria. asphalt spreader. Visit a number of nominations to the tion to the Comprehensive Plan Circulation Manager: At 485 acres, the preserve is one Ann Oliver www.fodm.org to learn more. Comprehensive Plan requiring ex- concerning the Little Hunting of the last tidal wetlands on the pensive traffic studies the MVCCA Creek Pumping Station against the CONNECTION NEWSPAPERS, river. Tidal freshwater marshes are Glenda C. Booth, President couldn’t afford to fund, thereby expressed wishes of the adjacent L.L.C. rare, says Dr. Elizabeth Wells, a Peter Labovitz Friends of Dyke Marsh, wasting the valuable time of Stratford Landing community. President/CEO George Washington University www.fodm.org county staff at significant taxpayer 8. The MVCCA continues to wetland plant expert. This wetland Mary Kimm Alexandria cost. When challenged on that show no deference to the South Publisher/Chief Operating Officer complex is one of the most signifi- point, they sought to amend state County Federation concerning is- 703-778-9433 cant temperate, tidal, freshwater, [email protected] law to permit the Comprehensive sues south of Fort Belvoir. This was riverine marshes in the national MVCCA Needs Plan to be amended before the exhibited concerning INOVA’s pro- Jerry Vernon park system. Thus, it is a national Publisher/Executive Vice President traffic study would be conducted. posal for a Healthplex in Lorton. [email protected] treasure as well. To Reform Itself Thankfully, the state legislature 9. In 2008, they supported the Congress designated it as a pre- Wesley DeBrosse To the Editor: saw through this scheme and Newington Civic Association’s Controller serve in 1959 “so that fish and As promised last week, here are killed it. (NCA) opposition to the proposed wildlife development and their Debbie Funk examples of actions of the MVCCA 5. In response to the suggestion rezoning of the 7-acre Leatherland National Sales, 703-778-9444 preservation as wetland wildlife that have resulted in forfeiture of of Mount Vernon resident Nicho- property, despite misstatements of [email protected] habitat shall be paramount.” To- its prior role as community repre- las Beltrante that a police review facts by NCA representatives. Su- A Connection Newspaper day, it has 300 known species of sentative: board be established, their Public pervisor Hyland supported the plants, 6,000 arthropods, 38 fish, 1. They elected their committee Safety Committee placed that sug- MVCCA’s opposition against the 16 reptiles, 14 amphibians and chairs without giving their mem- gestion on the agenda of three over 230 birds. Like all wetlands, bers the written notice in their separate meetings and voted it See Letters, Page 13

12 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Letters

From Page 12 This despite the fact that these views, instead, Supervisor Hyland residents were renters of pads praises the MVCCA. He did this at overwhelming recommendation from the trailer park owner, not last year’s MVCCA Gala. He did it of the Planning Commission and land owners. The developers of- again at their June 2010 Council with three supervisors leaving the fered $30,000 per trailer and nei- meeting. Other examples abound. board room including the Chair- ther side would compromise. Su- Supervisor Hyland just missed a man, when he made his motion to pervisor Hyland has never ex- golden opportunity to send a mes-

oppose. The result was loss to the plained why it costs $50,000 to sage to the MVCCA that reform is STUDIO ALERMINO community of 15 pages of proffers. relocate a trailer. The KCTC pro- necessary. His recently constituted 10. The MVCCA cooperated with posal failed and a Wal-Mart is now Visioning Task Force includes the Spring Bank Community As- under construction. Subsequently, seven MVCCA Committee Chair- sociation (SBCA) (whose Presi- an SBCA member proposed a reso- men (out of 76 members) who dent is a long time MVCCA Com- lution to the MVCCA to have were elected to their MVCCA po- mittee Chairman) in its “shake county taxpayers pay for the park sitions in violation of the MVCCA’s Alexandria Friendship Firehouse down” of developers who sought at the KCTC site that developers bylaws (See paragraph 1 above). P PATRICIA www.patpalermino.com [email protected] to develop the Kings Crossing were willing to provide at no cost If he had refrained from appoint- town center (KCTC) in Penn Daw to taxpayers. The resolution was ing these improperly installed adjacent their community. Super- enacted by the MVCCA. committee chairmen, an appropri- visor Hyland supported those ef- These are but examples of the ate message would have been sent Christ the Saviour forts. Among other things, the advocacy of the MVCCA, not on that reform is necessary. Anglican Church SBCA, MVCCA and Supervisor behalf of our community but, The time is long overdue for a Hyland sought to dictate to the de- rather, on behalf of the agenda of change in the relationship be- “To Love & Serve the Lord with velopers the ratio between com- the closed circle of partisans who tween Supervisor Hyland and the Gladness & Singleness of Heart” mercial and residential aspects have been in control of the MVCCA MVCCA. If the MVCCA refuses to and to require the developers to of late. The only reason the reform itself yet Supervisor pay for a park at the rear of the MVCCA wields power in our com- Hyland continues to use them for Location – Washington Mill ES property that would have ben- munity is that Supervisor Hyland political cover for decisions he 9100 Cherrytree Drive efited SBCA residents to a greater consciously chooses to use MVCCA takes that are out of the commu- degree than others due to its prox- decisions as political cover for his nity mainstream, this misuse of the Worship Servi ce – 10 a.m. imity to their community. Super- decisions. That conscious choice is non-mainstream views of the I nter-generational Sunday School – aft visor Hyland sought to require the the sole source of the power and MVCCA for political cover ought Vi car, The Rev. Huey J Sevier developer to pay $50,000 to each influence of the MVCCA. At every to be resolved by Mount Vernon www.christthesaviouranglican.org resident of the trailer park in- turn, instead of giving the MVCCA District voters politically. cluded in the parcels to be incor- the “tough love” it needs, to force 703-953-2854 porated in the KCTC, the money it to reform and come into line H. Jay Spiegel to pay for relocation expenses. with mainstream community Mount Vernon

If you do not get The Mount Vernon Gazette delivered to your home… FIRST CLASS MAILED SUBSCRIP- TIONS are now avail- interior & exterior painting able for the drywall & plaster repair first time with carpentry timely postal carrier deliv- design & color consulting ery: $30 for gutter cleaning six months. sanding & staining Help us meet the costs of pro- power washing viding first- concrete & patio cleaning rate community wood rot repair journalism on newsprint to your house- hold. Call 703-778- 9426 (or -9427) or e-mail circulation@ connectionnews 703.768.8143 papers.com www.williamsprofessionalpainting.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 13 14 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 15 Mt. Vernon Insider Places To Go, People To Meet …

September 2010 OCT. 16 Family Fall Festival. 10 a.m. to 3 November 2010 SEPT. 7 p.m. Armistead Booth Park, 520 Annual Doggie Day Swim. 4-7 p.m. Cameron Station Blvd., Alexandria. NOV. 4-6 At the Old Town Pool, 1609 Cameron Sponsor: City of Alexandria. Call the Historic Alexandria Antiques St., Alexandria. (Rain Date: Events Hotline at 703-746-5592 or Show & Sale. $15 admission. Wednesday, Sept. 8). There is a the Special Events Office at 703-746- Features dealers from around the nominal fee for dog admission. All 5418. country as well as preview party, dogs should wear current vaccination appraisals, lecture and tea. At a new tags or proof of vaccinations must be OCT. 16 venue this year: The GW Memorial shown. Call 703-746-5447 or e-mail Masonic Temple. Nov. 4 preview Craft Sale [email protected]. at Hollin Hall Senior Center 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Friday 11-8 p.m.; on Saturday, Oct. 16 from 9 a.m.-2 Saturday 11-6 p.m.; Wine & Cheese p.m. at Hollin Hall Senior Center, SEPT. 11-12 party Saturday 7-10 p.m.; Sunday 1500 Shenandoah Road. Over 30 noon to 5 p.m. Call 703-549-5811 or 8th Alexandria Festival of the crafters, silent auction, bake sale, visit www.funside.com. Arts. Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; lunch and more will be featured. Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In Old Free. 703-765-4573. NOV. 11 Town from Washington St. to the OCT. 17 unit block of King St. Cosponsors:

Photos by Veteran’s Day at George Washington’s Bishop Ireton 5k Fun Run. 9 a.m. to City of Alexandria and Howard Alan Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens, 11 a.m. Eisenhower Ave. at the Productions. Call 703-746-5418 or Nov. 11 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. In honor Cameron Run Great Wave Pool Park. visit 8th Annual Alexandria Festival of our nation’s veterans, Mount Sponsor: Bishop Ireton Booster Club. of the Arts. Visitalexandriava.com Vernon admits free all active duty or For information contact Bill Simmons

Louise Krafft Louise retired military. Visitors are invited at 751-212-5169 or e-mail at to place a flower at Washington’s SEPT. 17 [email protected]. Tomb and join the Sons of the Supper Under the Stars. 5-7:30 p.m. American Revolution and the King St. Gardens Park, 1806 King St., OCT. 23 Daughters of the American Alexandria. Featuring the music of Al Revolution at a 2 p.m. wreath-laying Walk to Fight Breast Cancer. 8:30 Williams & Friends, and cuisine from ceremony in honor of our nation’s

/Gazette a.m. Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria. Mango Mikes Restaurant. Sponsors: veterans. Call 703-780-2000 or visit 206 Swamp Fox Rd, AMC Theater Old Town Professional Business www.mountvernon.org. Association. Call Carol Suplee 703- Parking Lot. Sponsor: INOVA 969-6820 or David Martin at 703- Foundation/ Office on Women. Call 683-0333 or e-mail 703-746-3213 or e-mail NOV. 14 [email protected] [email protected] Gunston Hall Kite Festival Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation Walk/Run. 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. At Eisenhower Ave., 206 SEPT. 18 community. Artists and artisans of all OCT. 23-24 Torpedo Factory, Robinson Terminal, Swamp Fox Rd., AMC Theater kinds discuss and demonstrate their Fall Harvest Family Days at George Alexandria Story Festival. 10 a.m. 2 Duke Street. Free. Sponsored by Parking Lot. Sponsor: Multiple work. Also features tastings from Washington’s Gristmill, on State to 1 p.m. Jefferson Houston School Bittersweet Snack Shak and Potomac Myeloma Research Foundation. Call restaurants and musical Route 235, near Route 1. Oct. 23-24, Ball Field, 1501 Cameron St., Riverboat, Waterfront Weiners, and Laura Higgins at 203-652-0238 or performances. Mount Vernon Avenue from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Create cornhusk Alexandria. Sponsor: Wright To Barkley Square Gourmet Dog Treats. 203-229-0464. from Bellefonte to Hume Avenue. dolls, learn about candle-making and Read. Contact Leigh Hoyer 703-299- Call 703-549-7078 or visit Saturday, Oct. 2, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. see how the gristmill works. An on- 9855 or e-mail www.alexandriaseaport.org. [email protected]. Free. For information, call Pat Miller site bake sale will offer fresh-baked NOV. 25 at 703-683-2570 or e-mail goods, sandwiches and beverages. 35th Annual Alexandria Turkey [email protected]. SEPT. 26 Free. Call 703-780-2000 or visit Trot 5 Miler. 10 a.m. At Cora Kelly SEPT. 18-19 www.mountvernon.org. Dash For Dad! 8 a.m. 10K to Fight Recreation Center, 25 W. Reed Ave., 18th-Century Colonial Market and Prostate Cancer. Eisenhower Avenue, OCT. 2 Alexandria. Sponsor: Delray Business Fair at Mount Vernon. More than Association. Call Paul Coleus at 703- 206 Swamp Fox Rd, AMC Theater YMCA Alexandria “Get Your Move OCT. 24 70 juried artisans demonstrate their Parking Lot. Sponsor: National 933-0520 ext. 203 or e-mail ON” 5k Run. 8 a.m. to noon. Salvation Army 125th crafts and sell their wares, with Prostate Cancer Coalition. Call Tracy [email protected]. Eisenhower Ave. at the Cameron Run Anniversary. 4-6 p.m. Market Colonial music, entertainment, Amish 202-303-3111 or e-mail Great Wave Pool Park. Sponsor: Square, 301 King St., Alexandria. including fire-eaters and grave [email protected]. YMCA Alexandria. Contact: Melissa Sponsor: The Salvation Army. robbers, and hearty food. George See Things To Do, Page 17 Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gaskins at 703-838-8085 or e-mail at Contact Cpt. Ken Argot at 703-836- Gardens. Sept. 18-19. Call 703-780- SEPT. 26 [email protected]. 2427 or e-mail at [email protected] 2000 or visit Old Town Doggie Walk. 9 to 11 a.m. www.mountvernon.org.º Old Town area (orderly sidewalk OCT. 9 walk). Cosponsors: Capitol Heel, the The Charity Charge 5k. 8 a.m. to 4 OCT. 24 SEPT. 25 Alexandria Health Department and p.m. At Eisenhower Ave. at the 14th Annual Del Ray Halloween the Animal Welfare League of Paws in the Park. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cameron Run Great Wave Pool Park. Parade. 4 p.m. At Mt. Vernon Ball Alexandria. For information, call Sponsor: Gifts in Kind International. Field, 2701 Commonwealth Ave., Montgomery Park. 901 N. Royal St., Robert Mahoney at 703-836-7643, e- Alexandria. Sponsor: Old Town Contact Colleen Clark at 703-299- Alexandria. Sponsor: Delray Business mail [email protected], or 7554 or e-mail Association. Call Gayle Reuter at North Community Partnership. visit www.doggewalke.com Contact Elizabeth Frommer at 703- [email protected] 703-684-3535 or e-mail 835-8066 or e-mail [email protected] [email protected]. October 2010 OCT. 10 George Washington Birthday 10K OCT. 30 SEPT. 25 OCT. 1-3 Classic. 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. At 2nd Annual Ofrenda Parade. 7-7:45 Annual Tour of Historic Mount Vernon Estate’s Wine Eisenhower Avenue. Sponsor: George p.m. At Market Square, 301 King St., Alexandria Homes. Saturday, Festival and Sunset Tour. Washington Birthday Celebration Alexandria. Sponsor: Art Outlet and Sept. 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tour Features live entertainment, re- Committee. Call 703-991-4474 or Torpedo Factory. Contact Henrik some of the city’s most beautifully enactments, and tours of seldom- visit washingtonbirthday.org. Sundqvist at 571-214-9994 or e-mail restored and decorated homes. Old open wine cellar vaults. This evening at [email protected]. Town. Call 703-683-5544 for event celebrates the history of wine making by the founding fathers. Set OCT. 14-17 information, 703-461-9492 for OCT. 30 tickets or visit www.thetwig.org. for Oct. 1-3 from 6-9 p.m. Advance Northern Virginia Fashion Week. tickets suggested. $30. Call 703-780- At Waterfront Park, 1A Prince St. Death at the Carlyle House. 9 a.m. 2000 or visit www.mountvernon.org. (Schedule varies). Sponsor: NOVA to 11 a.m. At John Carlye House, 121 SEPT. 25 Fashion Week. Call Tianthony N. Fairfax St. to the Presbyterian Andrew Roby at 800-900-7501 ext. Church, 321 S. Fairfax St., Seaport Day 2010. Sept. 25 from OCT. 2 noon to 4 p.m. Celebrate the city’s 43 or e-mail at Alexandria. Sponsor: Alexandria’s seaport heritage with model-boat Art on the Avenue. Multicultural arts [email protected] Footsteps to the Past. For Woodlawn Plantation’s building, boat rides, food and festival celebrating diversity through information, call Jim Bartlinski at exhibits. At Seaport Center at the the arts in the Potomac West 703-549-2997. Easter Egg Hunt 16 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mt. Vernon 2010-2011 Season Insider Concert - September 11, 8:00 p.m. Philippe Bianconi, piano … And Things To Do George Mason University Center for the Arts TCHAIKOVSKY: The Tempest - Fantasy-Overture SCHUMANN: Piano Concerto From Page 16 RACHMANINOFF: Symphony No. 3 Upcoming Concerts NOV. 26 October 23rd - November 20th - January 15th Annual City Tree Lighting March19th - May 14th Ceremony. 7 p.m. At Market Square, 301 King St., Alexandria. Tickets: 888-945-2468 or www.fairfaxsymphony.org Sponsor: City of Alexandria. Call the Subscriptions: 703-563-1990 Events Hotline at 703-746-5592 or the Office of Special Events at 703- 746-5418.

NOV. 26-28 Mount Vernon by Candlelight. Learn about the Washington family’s Christmas traditions, meet historic characters and tour the home by candlelight. George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens. Nov. 26-28, Dec. 4-5 and Dec. 11-12 and Dec.18-19 from 5-8 p.m. Adults: $18, children 11 and under: $12. Call 703-780-2000. www.mountvernon.org

NOV. 27 Annual Scottish Preview at the Lyceum, 201 S Washington St., Nov. 27 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Featuring Scottish culture in Alexandria. This annual event honors Alexandria’s Scottish heritage with activities, Photo by performances and demonstrations. Call 703-838-4994. www.virginia.org

December 2010 KrafftLouise MONTH OF DECEMBER Holidays at Mount Vernon. Nov. 26- Jan. 6. The Washington family’s sea-

sonal entertaining is interpreted daily, /Gazette including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day; themed Christmas Trees, ginger- bread demonstration, historic chocolate demonstration. George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens. 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Call 703-780-2000. Mt. Vernon Farmer’s Market Commonwealth to Monroe avenues or the Special Events office at 703- along Mount Vernon Avenue. 6-9 746-5418. DEC. 4-5 p.m. Free. Parking lot at Nick Campagna Center’s 40th Annual Colasanto Art Center, 2704 Mt. Scottish Christmas Walk Vernon Ave., Alexandria. Call 703- DEC. 10-11 Weekend. 10:30 a.m. Parade 683-2570 or visit Plantation Christmas & Yuletide honors Alexandria’s Scottish heritage www.visitdelray.com. Christmas Dinner. Celebrate the with more than 100 Scottish clans season with a tour of the candle-lit dressed in tartans and playing house, cider by the glowing fire, bagpipes, living history reenactment DEC. 4 open-hearth cooking demonstrations, units, dog clubs and antique cars. Ornament Decorating Workshop. and carriage rides. Buffet of Yuletide Dec. 4, from 9 a.m.-11 p.m. and Dec. Dec. 4 from 1-4 p.m. at the fare also available. Gunston Hall 5, from 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Other Archaeology Museum, 3rd floor Plantation, 10709 Gunston Road, Christmas Walk activities include a Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St. Lorton. Dec. 10, 6:30 p.m. and 8 Taste of Scotland, sale of greens, Decorate an artifact-shaped, take- p.m.; Dec. 11, 4:30p.m. , 6:00 p.m. musical performances, children’s home dough ornament. Free. and 8:00 p.m. www.gunstonhall.org. events, Christmas Marketplace. Reservations suggested. Visit 703- Call 703-550-9220.º Parade is free. Call 703-549-0111. 838-4399. www.scottishchristmaswalk.com or visit campagnacenter.org. DEC. 11 DEC. 5 Christmas in Camp Open House. Toys for Tots. 1-5 p.m. Lee Center, $2 donation. Learn how the holiday DEC. 4 1108 Jefferson St., Alexandria. The was observed during the Civil War Annual Holiday Parade of Boats. 36th annual benefit square and with living history interpreters, Alexandria’s harbor lights up when round dance for the United States period music and light refreshments. brightly lit sailing and power leisure Marine Corps’ Reserve Toys for Tots 4301 W Braddock Road Dec. 11 from boats cruise along the Potomac River drive. Donation (per couple) is a new noon-4 p.m. Call 703-838-4848 or at the City’s historic waterfront. unopened toy for a minimum $10 visit www.fortward.org. Saturday, Dec. 4 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. contribution. A toy contribution may Free. Call 703-838-5005 or visit be dropped off at the Exhibit Hall www.visitalexandriava.com. before 3 p.m. DEC. 11 Cosponsors: Department of Recreation, Alexandria Holiday Cheerleading Parks and Cultural Activities in Invitational. 11 a.m. At T.C. DEC. 4 cooperation with the United States Williams High School, 3330 King St., Holidays on the Avenue. The Del Marine Corps Reserve. Advertising Alexandria. Sponsor: Department of Ray neighborhood kicks off the contributed and program supported Recreation, Parks and Cultural holiday season with its annual by National Capital Area Square Activities. Call 703-746-5407 or e- holiday tree lighting at the Mount Dance Leaders Association and mail [email protected]. Vernon Recreation Center Dec. 4 at 6 Washington Area Square Dance See Planning Ahead, p.m. Its luminaria display, with Cooperative Area. entertainment, stretches from Call the Events Hotline at 703-746-5592 Page 18 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 17 Mt. Vernon Restaurant Insider Français

and From Page 17 with a tour of the house with guides Bar in period costume. Lee-Fendall House, 614 Oronoco St. Call 703- DEC. 11-12 NOW OPEN SUNDAYS 548-1789 or visit Historic Alexandria Candlelight www.leefendallhouse.org. for Lunch & Dinner Tours. Enjoy the warmth and beauty of the holiday season at festively JANUARY NEW MENUS decorated historic sites in Old Town Alexandria. Tours are self-guided and Martin Luther King, Jr. Poster for Lunch / Dinner highlight the social, musical and Contest Exhibition and Awards. A sentimental aspects of the holidays in juried exhibition featuring the 18th- and 19th-century Alexandria. artwork of Alexandria elementary Wednesday Nites Light refreshments served; trolley school students (grades 1-5). available between sites. Dec. 11-12, Students’ artwork illustrates the All Bottled Wine tours are from 5-9 p.m. $20 for ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Half Off adults, $15 for seniors, nonviolent movement. The exhibition Planning and $5 for children is on display at City Hall through ages 6-17. Call 703- February. The program is presented Alfresco Dining Ahead 838-4242 or visit by the Society for the Preservation of www.historicalexandria.org. Black Heritage, Inc. and the on our NEW patio Alexandria Black History Museum. Free. Call 703-838-4356. DEC. 31 HOURS First Night Alexandria. Family- oriented, alcohol-free New Year’s February 2011 Lunch celebration with music, performing Sunday 11;30 to 3:00 Black History Month In Alexandria. A arts and fireworks at midnight. King Photo by month-long series of events Tues - Fri 11:00 to 2:30 and Washington streets and celebrating the accomplishments and throughout Old Town. Dec. 31 from Dinner contributions of African-American 7 p.m.-midnight. Call 703-838-5005. Alexandrians. Alexandria Black Sunday 4:00 to 8:00 E-mail

History Resource Center, 638 N KrafftLouise Mon thru Thur 5:00 to 9:00 [email protected] or Alfred St. Call 703-838-4356. Fri - Sat 5:00 to 9:30 visit firstnightalexandria.org.  January 2011 FEBRUARY 10 East Glebe Road Walking with Washington. See the sites associated with George JAN. 17 /Gazette Alexandria, Virginia 22305 Washington on this two-hour walking Lee Birthday Celebration. The Lee tour. 301 King St., Market Square. Birthday Celebration on Jan. 17 Sundays in February, 1:30 p.m. Free. Chezandree.com honors Revolutionary War Colonel 703.836.1404 “Light Horse Harry” Lee and his son, See Planning Ahead, Confederate General Robert E. Lee, Page 19 Christmas at Woodlawn Plantation

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18 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mt. Vernon Insider

wine-making From Page 18 endeavors. The evening Call 703-838-4399 or visit also features live www.washingtonbirthday.net.º entertainment, reenactments and tours of the rarely open FEB. 19 cellar vaults. George George Washington Washington’s Mount Classic 10K Race. Feb. Vernon Estate & 19 at Eisenhower Avenue Gardens. Call 703-780- east of the Holiday 2000 or visit Inn.ºRain or shine. Call www.mountvernon.org. 703-991-4474 or visit www.washingtonbirthday.net. June 2011 Juneteenth FEB. 19 Commemoration. Birthnight Banquet & Juneteenth celebrates Ball. Feb. 19, 5:30 p.m. the joyous day in Tavern fare, toasts to African-American George Washington and history when slaves in 18th-century dancing. Texas first learned of Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, their emancipation. 134 N Royal St. Advance Family-oriented reservations required. celebration includes $100 ticket includes music, reading of the banquet and ball, $50 Emancipation ticket for ball entrance Proclamation, only. Call 703-838-4242 Photo by entertainment and or visit food. 900 block Wythe www.washingtonbirthday.net. St. Free. Call 703-838- 4356.

FEB. 19 KrafftLouise Revolutionary War July 2011 Encampment. Feb. 19. An American Ongoing living history Celebration at presentations and Civil Mount Vernon War skirmish — An reenactment. Fort Ward /Gazette Independence Day Park, 4301 W Braddock celebration held on th. An all-day Road. Free. Call 703-838- July 4 celebration at the home 4848. of George Washington, with wreath-laying, the FEB. 19-20 Opening Day for Ft. Hunt Little League National Concert Band Breakfast With George of America, an 18th- Washington. Feb. 19-20. Join Gen. prestigious needlework exhibit in the century style Washington for a sample of his country. View amateur and celebration and free birthday cake for all. George Washington’s Mount The favorite breakfast, “hoecakes professional stitchery at the swimming in butter plantation George Washington gave Vernon Estate & Gardens. Call 703- and honey,” while to his granddaughter, Eleanor “Nelly” 780-2000 or visit Planning www.mountvernon.org. Royal Restaurant supplies last. George Custis Lewis. Woodlawn Plantation, U.S. and Alexandria Birthday Washington’s Mount 9000 Richmond Highway, Mount Ahead Celebration (now smoke free) Vernon Estate & Vernon. Call 703-220-2082 or visit . Observe the 256th Gardens. Cost is $15 www.woodlawn1805.org. birthday of Alexandria and the 230th for adults and $8 for birthday of the country with a children. Call 703-780-2000 or visit concert by the Alexandria Symphony “What’s for Dinner?!” www.mountvernon.org. MARCH 6 Orchestra, birthday cake, food and You don’t have to think too hard, let us solve this classic question. St. Patrick’s Day Celebration & fireworks. Evening culminates in Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” with Parade. Join the festivities, In addition to our award winning menu, we have added the firing of cannon. Grand finale FEB. 19-21 including the Fun Dog Show, Classic fireworks. Oronoco Bay Park, Union some popular specials that add variety for everybody taste. George Washington Birthday Car Competition and the 23rd Annual and Madison Streets. Free. Call 703- Celebration weekend Feb. 19-21. A Alexandria St. Patrick’s Parade. Old 883-4686 or visit www.alexsym.org. Real food, for real people at reasonable prices. city-wide celebration for Alexandria’s Town Alexandria. Free. Call 703-237- Carlyle Housewarming. Music, favorite son. Call 703-991-4474 or 2199 or visit www.ballyshaners.org. visit www.washingtonbirthday.net. refreshments and costumed Monday - Kids Night interpreters bring Carlyle House Burger Night (Kids eat 1/2 price) Each child must be accompanied by adult having entree. MARCH 20 alive, recalling when John Carlyle and his bride Sarah Fairfax moved FEB. 21 Swordsmen’s Rendezvous. 11 a.m.- Tuesday - Greek Night into their newly-built mansion in Birthday Celebration at Mount 4:30 p.m. at Gadsby’s Tavern 1753. Carlyle House Museum and Lamb Marinated and Roasted for 3 hours, Vernon. Feb. 21. Admission is free Museum, 134 N. Royal St. See re- Historic Park, 121 N Fairfax St. Free. Athenian Roast Chicken, Moussaka! to George Washington’s home with a enactments and learn how to handle Call 703-549-2997 or visit wreath-laying ceremony followed by a sword. Entry fee. Visitor call 703- www.carlylehouse.org. musical performances. George 838-4242. Wednesday - All American Night Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Meatloaf, Chicken Fried Chicken. Va. Ham Gardens. Call 703-780-2000 or visit www.mountvernon.org. April 2011 August 2011 Thursday - Italian Night Annual Historic Garden Tour of Ethnic Festivals in August. Each Lasagna, Chicken Alfredo, Calamari festival shares the culture of its FEB. 21 Alexandria. This tour features a mix of private and public properties. people through entertainment, food George Washington Birthday Friday - Fish Night Call 703-838-5005 or visit and arts & crafts. Festivals are Parade. Crab Cakes, Shrimp & Scallops over penne pasta with white sauce The largest parade www.VAGardenweek.org.º coordinated with co-sponsoring honoring the first president and Great Rum Punch. At Gadsby’s organizations and occur rain or Alexandria’s hometown hero features Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. shine. Irish Festival, Cambodian Saturday -Steak and Chop Night marching bands, floats, military and Enjoy different concoctions while Community Day, American Indian Prime Rib, Lamb, Surf and Turf, Pork Chops, and Moussaka reenactment units, Masonic groups, taking part in an auction. $50/ Festival. Call 703-883-4686. Tavern Day At Gadsby’s Tavern equestrian entries, antique cars and, person. Reservations required. Visit Sunday Museum of course, George and Martha www.gadsbystavern.org or 703-838- . A day of tavern life with Brunch served 7am - 2pm Washington, throughout Old Town 4242. displays, activities and programs. Alexandria. Monday, Feb. 21 from 1- Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N Dine in or call ahead and your dinner will be ready for pick up. 3 p.m. Free. Call 703-991-4474 or Royal St. Free. Call 703-838-4242 or Dinner hours 2:30-9:30pm visit www.washingtonbirthday.net. visit www.gadsbystavern.org. May 2011 Annual Friendship Firehouse 730 North Saint Asaph Street Mount Vernon’s Spring Wine Festival. See antique fire-fighting Alexandria, VA 22314 March 2011 Festival & Sunset Tour. This equipment, crafts, displays and live (703) 548-1616 elegant evening celebrates the history Annual Needlework Exhibition. music with special treats for children. of wine and highlights the successes Ample Free Parking March 1-31. The largest and most Food and beverages available. 107 S. and failures of our Founding Fathers’ Alfred St. Free. Call 703-838-4994. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 19 Insiders Guide: Schools

Fairfax County High Schools TEST SCORES (2009) Advanced Placement International Baccalaureate TOTAL POPULATION: 52,243 Total Number of Exams Taken 29,954 Total Number of Exams Taken 5,784 Male 27,070 (51.8%) By Male Students 14,276 By Male Students 2,406 Female 25,173 (48.2%) By Female Students 15,678 By Female Students 3,378 American Indian/Alaskan 175 (0.3%) By Asian Students 8,152 By Asian Students 1,254 Asian 9,985 (19.1%) By Black Students 1,165 By Black Students 487 Black 5,469 (10.5%) By Hispanic Students 1,524 By Hispanic Students 582 Hawaiian/Pacific Islander 38 (0.1%) By White Students 17,609 By White Students 3,141 Hispanic 8,400 (16.1%) By “Other” Students 1,504 By “Other” Students 320 Multiracial 2,443 (4.7%) Undesignated 114 (0.2%) Average Score (Scale of 1 to 5, with 3 as passing) 3.27 Average Test Score 4.23 White 25,619 (49%) By Male Students 3.36 By Male Students 4.12 By Female Students 3.19 By Female Students 4.3 By Asian Students 3.25 By Asian Students 4.12 By Black Students 2.58 By Black Students 3.85 By Hispanic Students 2.99 By Hispanic Students 4.2 SAT SCORES By White Students 3.35 By White Students 4.33 Average: By “Other” Students 3.27 By “Other” Students 4.23 Critical Reading 552 Asian Students 542 Percentage of Exams With A Score of “3” Or Higher 71 Percentage Of Exams With A Passing Score Black Students 472 By Male Students 73 (4 or Higher) 75 Hispanic Students 503 By Female Students 68 By Male Students 70 White 577 By Asian Students 70 By Female Students 77 By Black Students 48 By Asian Students 73 Mathematics 569 By Hispanic Students 60 By Black Students 61 Asian Students 604 By White Students 73 By Hispanic Students 72 Black Students 471 By “Other” Students 71 By White Students 78 Hispanic Students 511 By “Other” Students 73 White Students 583 Number of Students With A Score of 3 Or Higher On Three Exams 2,026 Total Number of International Baccalaureate Writing 543 Number of Students With An Average Score of 3.25 On Diplomas Awarded 283 Asian Students 546 All Exams And With A 3 Or Higher On Four Exams 968 Total Number of Students Who Black Students 464 Number of Students With An Average Scored of 3.5 On Have Taken An IB Class 3,262 Hispanic Students 491 All Exams And With A 3 On Five Exams 1,661 Percentage of Students in IB Schools That White Students 564 Number of Students With An Average of 4 On All Exams and Receive An IB Diploma 8.7% With A 4 On Eight Exams 292 Most Popular Exam English A1 (925 tests) Average ACT Scores: Most Popular Exam Exams Where Fewer Than 10 Tests Were Taken English 23.5 U.S. Government and Politics (3,987 tests taken) Arabic, French AB, German AB, Mathematics 24.1 Least Popular Exam Studio Art: 3-D Design (28 tests taken) Mandarin, Music Composition Reading 23.9 Exam with the Highest Pass Rate Exam With The Highest Pass Rate Science 22.9 Computer Science AB (93% of students scored 3 or higher) Music Group Performance (100%) Composite 23.7 Exam with the Lowest Pass Rate Exam With The Lowest Pass Rate Number of National Merit Semifinalists 219 Latin: Vergil (36% of students scored 3 or higher) Design Tech. (42%)

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Christ the Saviour Put Out Into the Deep Water! Good Shepherd Anglican Church Listen to sermons at www.wesleyva.org Catholic Church “To Love & Serve the Lord with 10 am Sunday Worship Service Mass Schedule Gladness & Singleness of Heart” Sunday School classes (child to adult) Saturday Evening Weekdays 5:00 pm; 6:30 pm (en Español) (Mass or Communion Service) Location – Washington Mill ES and youth group (7th to 12th grade) 9:00 am (followed by Rosary) 9100 Cherrytree Drive 9 am to noon Monday through Friday Pre-School Sunday Children’s Liturgy of the Word 7:30; 9:00; 10:30 am; 12:00 Noon Sundays (Sept.-July) during 9:00 am 2:00 pm (en Español) Mass (English) Worship Service – 10 a.m. Wesley United Methodist Church Sign Language Interpreter Inter-generational Sunday School – after service 8412 Richmond Ave, Alexandria, VA 22309 Sunday at 9:00 am Mass Vicar, The Rev. Huey J Sevier 8710 Mount Vernon Highway, Alexandria VA, 22309 (just off Richmond Highway, near Fort Belvoir & Mount Vernon) www.christthesaviouranglican.org Tel: 703-780-4055 Fax: 703-360-5385 www.gs-cc.org 703-780-5019 • www.wesleyva.org Loving as Christ loves, serving as Christ serves 703-953-2854

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20 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Insiders Guide: Schools West Potomac High School PRINCIPAL CLIFF HARDISON TEST SCORES Total Population: 2,091 Advanced Placement Mount Vernon High School Male 996 (47.6%) Students Scoring A 3 Or Higher Female 1,095 (52.4%) On Three Exams 95 PRINCIPAL NARDOS KING TEST SCORES American Indian/Alaskan 10 (0.5%) Students Scoring An Average of 3.25 Total Population: 1,814 International Baccalaureate Asian 166 (7.9%) With A 3 On Four Exams 41 Male 946 (52.1%) Number of IB Diplomas Awarded 9 Black 499 (23.9%) Students Scoring An Average of 3.5 Female 868 (47.9%) Number of IB Certificates Awarded 369 Hawaiian/Pacific Islander 3 (0.1%) With A 3 On Five Exams 46 American Indian/Alaskan 3 (0.2%) Percentage of Graduating Class Hispanic 467 (22.3%) Students Scoring An Average of 4 Asian 111 (6.1%) With IB Diploma 2.4% Multiracial 88 (4.2%) With A 4 On Eight Exams 8 Black 605 (33.4%) Undesignated 2 (0.1%) Hawaiian/Pacific Islander 3 (0.2%) Average SAT Score White 856 (40.9%) Average SAT Scores Hispanic 515 (28.4%) Critical Reading 466 Students Who Qualify for Free Lunch or Critical Reading 532 Multiracial 90 (5%) Mathematics 466 Reduced-Price Lunch 684 (34%) Mathematics 526 Undesignated 4 (0.2%) Writing 461 Writing 513 White 483 (26.6%) Number of National Merit Semifinalists 0 Number of National Merit Semifinalists 2 Students Who Qualify for Free Lunch or SCHOOL BUILDING Reduced-Price Lunch 743 (42.3%) ❖ Opened in 1960 SPECIAL PROGRAM ❖ Renovated in 1997 SPECIAL PROGRAMS ❖ JROTC Marine Corps ❖ Built for 2,081 students ❖ West Potomac Academy specializing in SCHOOL BUILDING ❖ Currently at 100 percent program capacity Communications & The Arts as well as ❖ Opened in 1960 Health and Human Services ❖ Expanded in 1972 and 1996 FAMOUS ALUMNI FUN FACT ❖ Renovated in 1996 ❖ Chuck Robb, former U.S. Senator and ❖ West Potomac was formed after the Fairfax County School Board made a controversial decision ❖ Built for 2,279 students Governor of Virginia to combine the old Groveton and Fort Hunt high school populations. The school board chose to ❖ Currently at 79 percent of program capacity ❖ Tony Perkins, chief weatherman for “Good not to use the name Groveton or Fort Hunt for the new school because of the rivalry that existed Morning America” between the two communities at the time. Mount Vernon: Great Place To Live From Page 5 every week at Cedar Knoll Inn and hosts an 7784 Gunston Plaza Dr. at 6:30 p.m. All the community? Attend the local Citizen’s annual Rotary Walk. are welcome to attend. Advisory Group meetings (http:// islative issues that may affect business and The Mount Vernon Knights Of Columbus Every third Wednesday morning, they www.fairfaxcounty.gov/lee/ the Chamber works with elected officials on #5998 supports several charitable and vol- host a breakfast get-together at 8 a.m. at citizens_advisory_committee.htm) or The all levels to make sure the business perspec- unteer activities in the area. For more in- the American BBQ Cafe located on the cor- Mount Vernon Council of Citizens’ Associa- tive is known on important issues. For more formation, visit http://www.kofc5998.org. ner of Lockport Place and Telegraph Road tion (http://mvcca.org/). information visit http://www.mtvernon- The Mason Neck Lion’s Club holds din- in Lorton, Va. Everyone is invited. http:// leechamber.org/. ner meetings on the Second and Fourth www.valions.org/mason/. Gale Curcio is an independent writer and public The Mount Vernon Rotary Club meets Wednesday of each month at the Polo Grill, Looking to find out what’s going on in relations consultant in Mount Vernon.

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www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 21 Mt. Vernon On a Hilltop Insider Protected by the Forest Real Estate on Road to Recovery D.C. regional market rebounds ahead of national sales.

By Julia O’Donoghue In spite of the higher prices, Washington-area Montebello The Gazette homes spent fewer days on the market than they were Fairfax County a year ago. orthern Virginia and the Washington During the first half of 2009, houses usually sat on The exclusive private world to which you return. Rare tranquility and city D.C. area have probably already seen the market for three months before selling. Now, they proximity blend in this unique and private thirty-plus acre enclave adjacent to the bottom of the local real estate are purchased — on average — in just under two METRO in Fairfax County. Originally named ‘Mount Eagle’ it was owned by N market, according to a mid-year report months. Lord Bryan Fairfax - an eighteenth century English nobleman turned colonial. on local housing trends. Local houses have not moved this quickly since President George Washington’s diary records that he paid his Across the D.C. area, home prices were higher 2006, according to the report. last social visit at the ‘Mount during the first half of 2010 than during the first six The Washington housing market is performing Eagle’ mansion. Today this his- months of 2009, according to the data collected by better than those in most the country’s other major toric site, ensconced amid con- Metropolitan Regional Information Systems, Inc. and metropolitan areas. venient and notable neighbors, Delta Associates. While the D.C. region has seen an increase in home may serve as your aerie over The number of days a D.C. area home sits on the prices, the National Association of Realtors has re- the nation’s capital. market before selling has also declined over the past ported that there is a national decline in housing Lois M. Delaney, CRB, CRS year, according to the report. prices. The real estate recovery is particularly robust in The D.C. region’s economy has been particularly Real Estate Broker Northern Virginia. strong over the past decade and has contributed to Licensed in Virginia, Maryland and District of Columbia The average price of a home for sale in Fairfax keeping the housing market afloat, according to the Serving the Washington Metropolitan Area since 1978 County or the City of Alexandria jumped 7.9 per- report. Montebello Marketing Incorporated cent from the first half of 2010 to the first half of From 2000 to 2009, the Washington area gained 703-548-5958 800-446-4187 2009. Arlington County houses posted an increase more new jobs each year than the nation’s other [email protected] of 13.5 percent, significantly higher than the aver- major metropolitan markets. The D.C. region also www.MontebelloMarketing.com age D.C. regional increase of 4.2. has the lowest unemployment rate of 12 largest Arlington also had the highest median home price metropolitan areas in the country. of any locality in the metropolitan area, followed by While most other markets lost jobs over the past the City of Alexandria and Fairfax County. 12 months, the Washington region added 13,200 Montgomery County, Md. — typically considered payroll employment positions during that time. Ac- Northern Virginia’s biggest rival for local residents cording to the report, many of these jobs are expected — saw a decline of 0.3 percent in housing prices to be located in Northern Virginia, rather than D.C. The Meehan Team from one year to the next. or Maryland. Over 60 years combined experience According to the report, Northern Virginia has had The D.C. region has mostly likely weathered the Steve & Christy Meehan, Joe Bavaria, Colleen Pavlick stronger and faster job growth than Maryland in re- recession better than other metropolitan hubs because cent months. The Northern Virginia housing market of an increase in spending by the federal government. also dropped off earlier on in the recession than Many of the new local jobs created in the last year Maryland’s, which could also account for Northern are with the government and not a reflection of local Serving Virginia, Maryland, Metro DC & West VA Virginia’s faster recovery. private sector growth, according to the report. 703-360-4805 Alex/Stratford Landing Mount Vernon’s Most Expensive Homes Sales So Far This Year: Address Price Neighborhood $579,900 7715 Northdown Road $2.9 million Wellington Charm galore in this lovely 5 2213 Belle Haven Road $2.4 million Belle Haven 4005 Belle Rive Terrace $2.38 million Ferry Landing Estates bedroom, 3 full bath, Mount 7608 Southdown Road $2.4 million Arcturus On The Potomac Vernon home in walking dis- 2106 Windsor Road $1.91 million Belle Haven tance to the GW Pkwy bike 6226 Fort Willard Circle $1.87 million Belle Haven 2107 Woodmont Road $1.78 million Belle Haven paths and Potomac. Beautiful 8307 Boulevard Drive $1.57 million Collingwood hardwood floors, raised 8236 West Boulevard Drive $1.35 million Boulevard Acres hearth fireplace, expanded and remodeled kitchen, Trex deck, yard bor- 4008 Belle Rive Terrace $1.35 million Ferry Landing Estates ders parkland. Mount Vernon Neighborhoods with Arl/Odyssey Condominium $799,000 Walls of glass and beautiful views in this the Most Homes Sold So Far in 2010: gorgeous 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath condo in Sequoyah ...... 62 homes sold popular Odyssey between Courthouse and Montebello ...... 30 homes sold Rosslyn Metros. 1,635 sq feet, gourmet Bucknell Manor ...... 25 homes sold kitchen with Wolf, Subzero, Bosch, Viking Jefferson Manor ...... 20 homes sold appliances. Full- Hollin Hills ...... 16 homes sold size washer/ Woodstone ...... 16 homes sold dryer, two balco- Belle View ...... 16 homes sold nies. Luxury at River Towers ...... 16 homes sold Waynewood ...... 16 homes sold its best. Open Stratford Landing ...... 16 homes sold Sunday. Call 703-360-4805. Mount Vernon Real Estate Facts: Alexandria/Ft Belvoir $330,000 ❖ The total number of housing units in the Mount Vernon community is 12,361. Beautiful living and value plus in this three ❖ About 44 percent of Mount Vernon’s homes are single-family, free-standing houses. level townhouse with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 ❖ A little over 25 percent of all Mount Vernon housing was built from 1970 to 1979. baths, 1-car garage, gourmet kitchen, deck, ❖ 80 percent of Mount Vernon residents moved to their current homes on or after 1990. family room. Built in 2001. – Julia O’Donoghue

22 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Insiders Guide: Sports

Photo by

Photo by

Louise Krafft

Louise Krafft

/The Gazette

/The Gazette

Mount Vernon varsity girls field hockey team play against Mount Vernon Varsity football team plays against TC Williams. Washington Lee. Getting To Know Mount Vernon Sports Seattle Seahawks. Atlee Hammacker Majors’ boys soccer, field hockey programs come on strong. (1976) pitched in the Major Leagues School: Mount Vernon High School. Rival School: West Potomac McLean in the first round of regionals. from 1981-1995. He was an all-star in Mascot: Majors. 1983 as a San Francisco Giant, when he School Colors: Maroon, gray and What happened last year: The field Historic Achievements: The boys soc- led the National League with a 2.25 white. hockey team won the National District cer program advanced to the regional tour- ERA. He also played for the Kansas City Athletic Director: Bob Maxey, 703-619- championship under head coach Jess nament for the first time since 2005 and Royals, San Diego Padres and Chicago 3141. Hebel, upsetting Washington-Lee 1-0 on defeated Langley in the opening round. The White Sox. Football Coach: Barry Wells (first year). the road. Goalkeeper Sara Duncan re- boys basketball team repeated as district Wells takes over a program that finished corded the shutout for Mount Vernon. champions. The football program won a Quotable: “I’m so happy. I’ve waited 0-10 in 2009. The Majors lost to winless The boys basketball team won 20 games, state championship in 1983. three years for this. [It was] intense [on the Wakefield by five points and Stuart by two, captured the district championship and field]. I’m the last line of defense, so I al- but also lost six games by at least 27 points. advanced to the region semifinals under Famous Graduates: Ed Cunningham ways feel like I’m the one who lets the team Boys Basketball Coach: Alfonso head coach Alfonso Smith. The girls bas- (1987) played center for the University down when we lose.” — Mount Vernon field Smith. ketball team finished runner up in the of Washington’s 1991 national champion hockey goalkeeper Sara Duncan after shut- Boys Soccer Coach: Robert Garza. district and won a game at regionals. The football team. He went on to play in the ting out Washington-Lee in the district Field Hockey Coach: Jessica Hebel baseball team finished 17-6, losing to NFL for the Arizona Cardinals and the championship game. West Potomac Sports Wolverines feature Baseball Coach: Jim Sullivan. strong distance Rival Schools: Mount Vernon, T.C. Wil- liams. runners. What happened last year: The girls School: West Potomac High School. cross country team finished fourth at the Mascot: Wolverines. AAA state meet while the boys came in School Colors: Royal blue and silver. ninth. The boys basketball team won the Photo by Patriot District championship and advanced Athletic Director: Aaron Helmick, 703- to the second round of regionals. The girls

718-2561 track team finished 16th at states. Louise Krafft Football Coach: Eric Henderson The Wolverines started the 2009 season Historic Achievements: The boys bas- with a bang, beating rival Mount Vernon ketball team won its first district champi- 42-3. But West Potomac quickly headed onship since 1996. The football program south, losing its next five games en route won back-to-back state championships in /The Gazette to a 2-8 record. The Wolverines’ other vic- 1989 and 1990. The girls cross country team tory came against playoff-bound Robert E. also won state championships in 1989 and Lee. 1990. Boys Basketball Coach: David Hous- West Potomac varsity football works a scrimmage against Washington ton III. See West Potomac, Page 24 Lee. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 23 Finish Carpentry & Trim Works Insiders Guide: Sports 29 years of quality projects body felt like we would be in the regional tourna- Specializing in: West Potomac ment — not even in the regional tournament — let • Crown Moldings From Page 23 alone the top team in the best district in the region. • Wainscoting & Chair Railings Famous Graduates: Tiombe Hurd (1991 gradu- … This is the best team that I’ve had as far as a col- • Accent Trims ate) set the American record in the outdoor triple lection of players with one goal. … We won the [dis- jump at 14.45 meters in 2004. Figure skater Ashley trict] championship [and] I think we did it the right • Door & Window Trims Wagner, who attended West Potomac through the way. We didn’t go out and get transfers. We did it • Door & Hardware Installation 2007-08 school year, has finished third at the U.S. with the same kids we had last year.” — Head boys • Drywall Repairs Championships and the World Junior Champion- basketball coach David Houston III after the Wolver- • Other Carpentry projects ships. ines’ season ended in the second round of the re- Quotable: “They gave everything they had. No- gional tournament. Licensed • Bonded • Insured • References Upon Request. Ofc: 703.684.5215 Cell: 703.403.2994 [email protected] St. Stephen’s & Episcopal Sports Bishop Ireton School: Episcopal High School. St. Agnes Sports Mascot: Maroon. Sports School: St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School Colors: Maroon and black. School: Bishop Ireton High School School. Athletic Director: Mark Gowin, Mascot: Cardinals Mascot: Saints. 703-933-4043. School Colors: Burgundy and School Colors: Red, white, green Football Coach: Mark Gowin. gold. and gold. The Maroon overcame a 1-4 start to finish 4-5, including three consecutive Athletic Director: W. William Athletic Director: Stephanie wins over St. Christopher’s, Alexandria Simmons, 703-212-5169. Koroma (for girls), 703-212-2776; foe St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes and Bullis. Football Coach: Anthony Verducci. David Holm (for boys) 703-212-2775. Boys Basketball Coach: Jim The Cardinals won three of their final Football Coach: David Holm. Fitzpatrick. four games to finish 7-3. BI defeated Al- The Saints started the season 5-1 but Baseball Coach: Rick Stubbs. exandria foe St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes lost their final three games to finish 5-4. Rival Schools: St. Stephen’s & St. 19-7. Boys Basketball Coach: Kevin Agnes. Boys Basketball Coach: Neil McClinton. What happened last year: The Berkman. Girls Basketball Coach: Calvin boys soccer team won the ISL champion- Girls Basketball Coach: Mike Crenshaw. ship for the second consecutive season Hutton. Baseball Coach: James Supple. and was ranked No. 3 in the nation by the Baseball Coach: Michael Rival School: Episcopal. National Soccer Coaches Association of Gallagher. What happened last year: The America. One year prior, the Maroon field hockey team finished 16-5-2, win- won the VISAA championship. The boys What happened last year: The ning the ISL championship but losing to basketball team finished 16-9, including boys basketball team went 7-20 under St. Catherine’s in the state semifinals. three wins over rival St. Stephen’s & St. first-year head coach Neil Berkman. The boys soccer team went 13-5-2, los- Agnes. The girls lacrosse team went 21- The girls basketball team finished 8- ing in overtime to collegiate in the 2, winning the ISL title but losing the VIS 21. The girls lacrosse team finished VISAA semifinals. The girls tennis team semifinals. 13-8, including a six-game winning reached the state semifinals. The boys Famous Graduates: Running back streak late in the season. The boys lacrosse team won the state champion- Tim Hightower (2004 graduate) was a track and field team won a Catholic ship and the girls lacrosse team won the 2008 fifth-round draft choice of the Ari- schools state championship. ISL and VISAA crowns. The softball zona Cardinals. He has 18 rushing team captured the ISL title. touchdowns in two NFL seasons, starting Quotable: “The [Washington 23 of 32 games played. He played in Su- Catholic Athletic Conference] is unbe- Successful Programs: The girls per Bowl XLIII, carrying once for no yards lievable and we’re trying to win league lacrosse and field hockey programs are and catching two passes for 13 yards in games, we’re trying to win games, among the best in the country. Lacrosse a 27-23 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. we’re trying to play together and we’re head coach Kathy Jenkins enters her Hightower also competed in basketball trying to really teach guys how to play 35th season with more than 500 victo- and track from the Maroon. Republican much harder than they’re used to. … ries and 22 ISL championships. Head senator and 2008 Republican Party can- We’re changing a culture and slowly What is a Classical Education? field hockey coach Marsha Way enters didate for president John McCain (1954) but surely we’re going to do it.” — her 32nd season with more than 400 competed in football, wrestling and ten- Head boys basketball coach Neil For the first time since 1824—the year Robert E. Lee wins. Both programs captured ISL nis while at Episcopal. For two years he Berkman, who took over a program championships last year and Jenkins’ held the school record for “fastest pin” last year that won a combined 14 graduated and went off to West Point—Alexandria lacrosse team also win the VISAA title. while wrestling in the 127-pound weight games in its previous three seasons. Academy is accepting new students. class. Endowed by George Washington in 1785, Alexandria Academy is a classical, coeducational school that prepares its graduates for America’s most selective colleges and universities while equipping each one to “serve the world through their character and leadership.” Along with coursework in math, science and English literature, Academy scholars receive instruction in Latin, Chinese or French, logic, rhetoric and the arts. And, like Robert E. Lee, they learn what it means to be a gentleman—or a lady. To learn about general admissions or the Founding Families Program, contact the Rector, T. Robinson Ahlstrom. ([email protected])

400 S. Washington Street Alexandria, VA 22314 www.alexandria-academy.org 703.535.5533 Some restrictions may apply. Please contact a membership advisor for details.

24 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com 703-917-6464 703-917-6400 Zone 3: • Alexandria Employment Zone 3 Ad Deadline: Zone 3: • Alexandria Classified Zone 3 Ad Deadline: • Mount Vernon Tuesday 4 p.m. • Mount Vernon Tuesday Noon

TELEPHONE TELEPHONE Foster Care Foster Care 26 Antiques 21 Announcements Power Systems Engineer. Job in Alexan- A great opportunity to A great opportunity to dria, VA. Dsgn, dvlp & upgrade of elec- WORK AT HOME! WORK AT HOME! Antique Cast Iron Garden Restoration of Oil Paintings Furniture. 2 matching Museum Quality work tronics & digital controls for industrial NATIONAL CHILDRENS CENTER NATIONAL CHILDRENS CENTER FAMILY SUPPORT Jim Austin 202-413-1555 No sell! Salary + Bonus + Benefits! No sell! Salary + Bonus + Benefits! benches, 1 chair, 1 table. power & electronic control systems, incl Attention Parents: a local child-placing agency Price neg. 703-548-6516 s/ware models, prgmg; perform para- 301-333-1900 301-333-1900 ☎☎ Weekdays 9-4 ☎☎ ☎☎ Weekdays 9-4 ☎☎ is seeking dedicated parents for children in 116 Childcare Avail. metric studies to validate models; dvlp, We consign/pay top $ for perform test procedures for electrical need of homes. We have been in Virginia for Experienced Nanny P/T Bookkeeper/Admin more than 10 years. All children need a fami- antique/semi antique furn. Available control systems; writing specs, installa- including mid century & *I am an experienced Nanny tion & repair procedures for electrical Est 16 hrs per wk. Duties include ly. This agency believes that families in this looking for a new warm and danish modern Teak loving family to work with. eqpmt. Mail resume to N. Svites, MPR area care about children. Call and speak with A/P & A/R, bank recs plus genr’l furniture, sterling, mens *I will care for your child or Associates, 320 King St, Ste 400, Alex- office duties. Must have Peachtree our staff members about what family means to children live in or out watches, painting/art glass, (preferably live-in Monday andria, VA 22314. and Excel exp, be organized and de- a child. We provide a large support team to clocks, jewelry, costume through Friday.) tailed. Pay depending on exp. Email help you raise a happy child in a loving home. *I have wonderful resume: [email protected] jewelry, etc. Call Schefer references. Call today: (703) 684-3500 Antiques @ 703-241-0790. *Spanish speaker. HOW TO SUBMIT ADS TO fax 703-960-5937 Please call at 703.859.1999

21 Announcements 21 Announcements 101 Computers 101 Computers Newspapers & Online CLASSIFIED Transportation- You can be a truck driver in EASY COMPUTER SOLUTIONS FOR DEADLINES the National Guard. HDI INDIVIDUALS & SMALL BUSINESSES Zones 1, 5, 6...... Mon @ noon Train one weekend a month and two weeks a ENNIFER MITH OMPUTER ONSULTANT year. A part time career with full time rewards J O. S • C C Zones 2, 3, 4...... Tues @ noon ➣ ➣ ➣ E-mail ad with zone choices to: Call today for details. TRAINING INSTALLATION TROUBLE-SHOOTING ➣ [email protected] SFC Mark Williams LET US TAME THAT BEAST FOR YOU or call Andrea @ 703-778-9411 Serving the Area Since 1995 EMPLOYMENT 540-810-3267 DEADLINES (703) 765-2222 Zones 5, 6...... Tues @ 11:00 [email protected] Zones 1, 3...... Tues @ 4:00 MECHANICS NEEDED Zone 2...... Wed @ 11:00 Zone 4...... Wed @ 1:00 DBI Services, one of the nation’s largest and 21 Announcements 21 Announcements E-mail ad with zone choices to: fastest growing Highway Infrastructure [email protected] Maintenance Companies is experiencing tre- or call Barbara @ 703-778-9413 mendous growth which has created mechan- ZONES ic positions in the Winchester and Alexan- Zone 1: The Reston Connection dria Virginia areas. Snow plowing experi- The Oak Hill/Herndon Connection ence preferred. Zone 2: The Springfield Connection The Burke Connection We offer an excellent benefit and wage The Fairfax Connection package: For a career opportunity and confi- The Fairfax Station/Clifton/ dential consideration, send resume to: Lorton Connection Zone 3: The Alexandria Gazette Packet Carl T. Faust The Mount Vernon Gazette DBI Services, LLC Zone 4: Centre View North Centre View South 100 North Conahan Drive Zone 5: The Potomac Almanac Hazleton, PA 18201 21 Announcements 21 Announcements Zone 6: The Arlington Connection Fax: (570) 459-5363 The Vienna/Oakton Connection E-Mail: [email protected] OBITUARY Employers: The McLean Connection EOE The Great Falls Connection Alaine Marsh Henderson, of Alexandria, Virginia, died peace- Are your recruiting ads not fully at her home on August 14, 2010, of respiratory arrest. Born in 1919 and raised in the small town of Onley on Virgin- working in other papers? ia’s Eastern Shore, her life’s journey took her far and wide, to many U.S. states and more than 40 countries, including resi- Try a better way to fill your dencies in Louisiana and California, Oxford, Bologna, London and Paris. A direct descendent of Tom Savage, who accom- employment openings Educational panied Captain John Smith on his Jamestown expeditions be- fore settling on Virginia’s eastern peninsula, Alaine was adven- North turous. Well into her ninth decade, she travelled around Cape Potomac Horn and north of the Arctic Circle. Her passion for learning al- Rockville so embraced English and American literature, which she stud- 5 Internships ied at Averett College before earning both the B.A. and M.A. Potomac Chevy Great Bethesda degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Falls Chase there she also worked for the English Department (and learned Herndon Dulles Reston Unusual opportunity to to fly a Piper Cub airplane). She came from a long line of Airport 1 McLean strong-minded Virginia women. During World War II she en- Vienna Oakton 6 dured the loss of her elder brother Russell in the Pacific, while Arlington learn many aspects of the her younger brother Clinton participated in the Normandy inva- Chantilly 4 Washington, Centreville D.C. sion. So did her eventual husband Donald Graham Hender- Fairfax newspaper business. son, whom she married in 1947 and accompanied to Oxford North Clifton where he was a Rhodes Scholar. During those post-war years Historic Burke Clifton Fairfax Springfield 3 of rationing and gradual rebuilding in Europe, she bore her son Station Internships available in Geoffrey, and when Don began a career in government in 2 Laurel 1952 (first with the CIA, later rising to the rank of Assistant Hill reporting, photography, Chief of Staff for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, dur- ing and after the Fulbright years), she moved to northern Vir- research, graphics. ginia and bore two daughters, Joyce and Diana. Accompany- • Target your best job candidates ing Don on some of his international travels and through the re- where they live. ceptions and demands of a government career, she brought Opportunities for students, her energetic and well-informed insights to bear upon political • Reach readers in addition developments throughout her life. She was active in the Lea- gue of Women Voters, and was pleased to participate in the to those who are currently and for adults considering election of President Obama. After Don’s death in 1983, she looking for a job. continued to travel with her children, sisters, friends and on her change of career. Unpaid. own, from Thailand to Malta, from China to the Caribbean. • Proven readership. She was a regular volunteer at ALIVE! in Alexandria, read avidly and loved her Scrabble games. She remained very • Proven results. E-mail internship@connec close to her two surviving sisters, Mary Johnson of Parksley, Virginia and Sara Willis of Norfolk, Virginia and her sister-in- tionnewspapers.com law Daphna Marsh of Fredericksburg, Virginia as well as her dear friends living in Northern Virginia and further afield. She was a devoted mother who will be deeply missed by Geoffrey R. Henderson of Arlington, Virginia, Joyce G. Henderson of 703-917-6464 Ripton, Vermont and her husband Bill Pierce, and Diana E. Henderson of Boston, Massachusetts. There will be a memo- [email protected] rial celebration at her home open to all friends and family on Sunday, September 12th from 2-5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, Great Papers • Great Readers • Great Results! please make a contribution to the charity of your own choosing. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 25 HomeHome && GardenGarden 703-917-6400 Zone 3: • Alexandria Zone 3 Ad Deadline: • Mount Vernon connectionnewspapers.com CONTRACTORS.com Tuesday Noon

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26 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 ❖ 27 Alexandria/Old Town 121 N. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 703-549-8700 www.weichert.com

THINKING OF A REAL ESTATE CAREER? Call Kim Farina at the Alexandria/Old Town Office.

Alexandria Alexandria Alexandria $474,900 $487,500 $998,000 All brick TH w/ Wonderful end unit Stunning renovated- open floor plan, 2 TH w/2 bedrms, 1.5 historic 1890 home is DEL RAY HISTORIC all new from the frame bedrms, 2.5 baths baths, & OLD TOWN OLD TOWN up. Two elegant & large loft. spectacular gourmet kitchen. master suites. Family Hardwood floors Light filled addition room off stylish on main level. leads t0o private Chef’s kitchen Custom brick deck & fenced yard w/French doors to patio & off street perfect for patio. High ceilings, parking. entertaining. gorgeous moldings, recessed lighting, Convenient to Convenient to metro & shopping. wide plank hardwood shopping & flooring & mush more! 544 Luray Avenue E restaurants. 219 Royal Street S 904 Franklin S Fred Smith Bobi Bomar Barbara Rosen 571-215-3733 703-927-2213 703-407-6481

Alexandria $524,425

OPEN Tons of space SUNDAY inside and out in this 4 bedrm, ROSEMONT 3.5 bath, 2+ car garage on 1/3 acre lot. Completely renovated in the last 2 years. Alexandria $450,000 Alexandria $1,089,000 Renovated (in 2002) unique, one level home on a corner lot with tons of light. 3 Looks are deceiving! This spacious 4 bedrm, 3.5bath home has it all 6715 Armlong Ave. bedrms, 2 baths & 2 car garage. Open Floor plan. Hardwood floors throughout. & then SOME ! A 3 story addition w/over 3000 SF of luxury living on Bright sunroom. Deck w/hot tub. Murphy bed, skylights, fenced yard & 2 car garage. a 7500SF lot w/a new garage! Blocks to metro, Old Town & Del Ray! Phil Cefaratti 2401 Sherwood Hall Lane 4 Glendale Avenue, West 703-371-7601 Julie Hall 703-786-3634 Christine Garner 703-587-4855

SUN 8/29 OPEN Alexandria SUNDAYOPEN $775,000 Built in home CITY 2 PARKINGSPACES office in this 3 ALEXANDRIA ROSEMONT bedrm, 2.5 bath home in the heart of Town. Shows well! 720 Gibbon St. Alexandria $874,000 Diann Hicks Alexandria $499,000 Renovated & Expandable w/3 finished levels, 3 baths, 3 bedrms including private Convenient 1 level living w/3 bedrms, 2 baths & updated master suite. Beautifully landscaped yard backs to “Never to be developed 703-628-2640 kitchen w/breakfast room. Cozy 2 sided fireplace shared by wooded area” Detached garage. Blocks to metro & Old Town. living & dining rooms. Partially finished LL has plenty of 900 Junior Street space for expansion. Large fully fenced rear yard w/patio. Christine Garner 703-587-4855 5337 Thayer Ave. Bob Bazzle 703-599-8964

WAYNEWOOD

Alex/Rosemont $899,000 Alexandria $689,000 Alex/Del Ray $599,900 Lovely expanded 1920’s colonial w/3 finished levels, 4 Fantastic top to bottom renovation w/3 bedrms & 3 full Fabulous farmhouse w/3 bedrms, 1.5 baths. Maintains old style charm upper bedrms & 3.5 baths, Family rm off kitchen, sun room, baths. All new kitchen, bathrooms and beautifully refinished w/modern updates. Gleaming hardwood floors and high ceilings give home formal dining rm & living rm. New windows & detached hardwood floors on manin & upper levels. Finished LL w/rec a light & airy feel. Separate dining roomw/French doors lead to deep garage, Blocks to metro & shopping. room & utility room. Fully fenced back yard. backyard. Convenient to shopping, dining and metro. 404 Russell Rd. Christine Garner 703-587-4855 1707 Oakcrest Dr. Bob Bazzle 703-599-8964 121 Clifford Ave. E. Bobi Bomar 703-927-2213 VisitVisit UsUs atat Weichert.comWeichert.com forfor aa fullfull ListingListing ofof NewNew PropertiesProperties

28 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ August 26 - September 1, 2010 ❖ Insiders Community Guide 2010-2011 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com