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Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ November 26 - December 2, 2015 ❖ 1www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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November 26, 2015Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A Connection Newspaper

See Art Therapy, Page 3

Police identified MarquelDavis, 22, of Audubon Av-enue in Alexandria, as the

man who died in a Hybla Valleyshooting on Nov. 18. His cause andmanner of death have yet to be de-termined by the medical examiner.

Another man, 27, was hospital-ized with gunshot wounds alongwith Davis. The other man’s inju-ries were determined to be non-life-threatening.

An additional 21-year-old manwith gunshot wounds came to the

Mount Vernon Hospital emergencyroom following the incident, po-lice said. Detectives believe he wasinvolved with the shooting as well.

Police originally responded aftera shooting at an apartment wasreported around 10 p.m. in the7900 block of Audubon Avenue.The investigation into the incidentis continuing but police said de-tectives believe the shooting cameabout from a dispute within theapartment.

— Tim Peterson

One Dead, Two InjuredIn Hybla Valley Shooting

By Vernon Miles

The Gazette

I was messed up,” said TorPeery. “I still am. I havesome bad days, but this

helped me to use another mediumto express myself without havingto use words. It’s amazing what artcan do.”

Peery isn’t alone. He’s one of 70active duty and retired militarypersonnel whose found a newhope for recovery with IMPart, aprogram run by Alexandria’s ArtLeague which helps victims of PostTraumatic Stress Disorder. Theprogram has been gaining nationalattention, from First Lady MichelleObama in October to a visit Nov.18 from Jane Chu, chairman of theNational Endowment for the Arts(NEA). The recovering soldiersdisplayed their work for Chu, fromclay sculptures to pictures of wa-ter garden ornamentation.

The IMPart program, run by theceramics department chair BlairMeerfeld, meets on Wednesdays atthe Art League’s Madison Annexin North Old Town. The program

was started in 2012, but SuzanneBethel, executive director of theArt League, said its roots stemfrom the 2007 Walter Reed ArmyMedical Center neglect scandal.

“I wanted to see if there wassomething we could do at WalterReed,” said Bethel. “We learnedthat there was a burning need andit wasn’t being well filled. So welooked at Ft. Belvoir, which wasbecoming an epicenter for armymedical treatment. It was right inour backyard, and with our ceram-ics program, it seems like a natu-ral fit.”

Meerfeld said the program hasbenefitted greatly from the recentaddition of Jackie Jones, an arttherapist working at Fort Belvoiron an endowment from the NEA,but volunteers with IMPart

“We benefitted by having Jackiein the room,” said Bethel. “Sheknows what’s going on … she cansee things from a therapy side.”

Jon Meadows joined IMPart in2013 and is one of the program’slongest outstanding participants.Jon Meadows was beginning tocreate art that the doctors he wasseeing were concerned about anddidn’t understand. When it wasannounced that Jones would bevolunteering at IMPart, MelissaMeadows kept pushing for her

IMParting HopeArt therapy helpsveterans recoverfrom PTSD.

See Arcadia, Page 3

“By Tim Peterson

The Gazette

Beads of sweat onLaron Murrell’sforehead glisten un-der his grey wool

beanie as he digs his hoe intothe live earth. On one side, theWoodlawn Plantation mansionstands, a relic from 1800. Theplantation overlooks FortBelvoir, situated across Route 1bustling on a gleaming Mondaymorning in November.

Murrell, 36, is turning oversoil at Arcadia Farm for the win-ter, a two-acre project of inten-sive vegetable cultivation that’sbringing new life to the plan-tation grounds and surround-ing communities.

An 11-year veteran of theU.S. Army and Army reservesspecializing in equipment re-pair, Murrell is the first full-timefellow in Arcadia’s VeteranFarmer Program. He started hisyear-long post in October andwill divide his time amongclasses on botany, soil chemis-try and farm business practices,as well as working on the farmand helping manage volunteersthat assist with planting, har-vesting and other farm tasks.

Upon completion, Murrellplans to return to 55 acres ofland that belongs to his familyin Dover, N.C. and begin a veg-etable farm of his own.

Independent farming is oneof the main goals of the VeteranFarmer Program: giving formermilitary a renewed sense ofpurpose and re-populating afarmer workforce that is agingand dying.

“There’s nobody tougher inthis country than farmers andveterans,” said Pam Hess, ex-ecutive director for ArcadiaCenter for Sustainable Foodand Agriculture, of which thefarm is one component.

“They share many of thesame character qualities and

are really up for this kind of work.Farming is hard, risky, nerve-wracking. But it’s also meaningfuland a true meritocracy — some-thing people who’ve served reallyexcel with.”

The Arcadia Center comprises alarger food system including thefarm, which produced 6,300pounds of fresh produce betweenMay and November 2015, thatgoes out through two mobile foodmarkets to be sold at reduced costin neighborhoods with little accessto fresh food. The markets make19 weekly stops in Washington,D.C. and the South County Gov-ernment Center.

In 2016, Hess said they will con-tinue to work on expanding thereach of the mobile markets innorthern Virginia. “We’re focusedto figure out if we can crack thatnut,” she said. “There are plentyof people not getting good food inthe suburbs, but we haven’t fig-

ured out qute yet how we canget to them.”

In addition to the farm andthe mobile markets, Arcadiaoffers classes on growing andpreparing fresh produce forschools, and then the VeteranFarmer Program, which re-cently began accepting applica-tions for a reservist track,thanks to a grant from the U.S.Department of Agriculture.

Those veterans will spendone weekend each month andtaking classes like Murrell,working on the farm and visit-ing working farms for practicalexperience with livestock,dairy, hydroponics and otherstyles of farming.

This Arcadia system is thebrainchild of Michael Babin, aco-owner of the NeighborhoodRestaurant Group.

“The beautiful part is all of

Finding New Row to HoeArcadia Farmsoffers veteransmore purposein life, business.

Laron Murrell turns over soil for winter at ArcadiaFarm after pulling stalks of okra.

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2 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ November 26 - December 2, 2015 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com


News

Laron Murrell of Woodbridge is the first full-time Veteran Farmer program fellow at ArcadiaFarm on Woodlawn-Pope Leighey.

Arcadia Farm Manager Anita Adalja of Wash-ington, D.C. pulls remaining debris as theyturn over soil for the winter.

Tysons Corner Ritz Carlton employees TylerDonahue of Arlington (left) and Emily Gauthierof Maryland (right) volunteer at Arcadia Farmonce a month. The pair are are bundling stalksof okra which will be used to build an arborelsewhere on the farm.

Arcadia Farms Offers Veterans More Purpose in LifeFrom Page 1

our programs support one another,” Hesssaid. “That’s not an accident, but wellthought out by Michael [Babin]. We’regrowing food and growing farmers, gettingpeople really loving and wanting healthyfood. It goes out to mobile market andpeople actually buy it, then the demandgoes back to the farmers, it goes around andaround.”

The mobile markets were one of the bigdraws for Murrell when he applied for theArcadia fellowship.

“They’re helping more,” he said. “It’s thebest idea since sliced bread: You get yourproduct out there and teach them how toprepare it.”

When Murrell left the Army in 2009, heworked in facilities maintenance for a phar-

maceutical company for several years. “I feltlike it didn’t have purpose,” said Murrell,who served in two tours in Iraq. “I knew Ineeded something else.”

He began talking to friends and Googling“What jobs are vets doing?” in an attemptto find something that would restore hissense of direction in life. That led him toagriculture, farming, something he remem-bered from his grandparents’ sharecroppingtown.

He took a class at Pitt Community Col-lege in North Carolina and then whilesearching for apprenticeships came acrossArcadia.

“I didn’t really believe it at first,” Murrellsaid when he heard he was accepted. “I washappy, excited. I wanted to come out thesame week.”

Though his future veteran colleagues inthe reservist program will begin early in2016 with a dormant farm, focusing moreon preparing for the new growing year andfarming concepts, Murrell came on duringthe harvest, getting to see the end resultfirst.

“He’s taken the ropes, with a lot to learninitially, it’s been full immersion,” said FarmManager Anita Adalja of Washington, D.C.“Soil, beds, volunteer management — he’sdefinitely an asset to the farm.”

This Monday morning, Murrell has beenhelping lead volunteers from the TysonsCorner Ritz Carlton to harvest okra and turnover the soil for winter. Then they’ll plant“cover crop” like oats, peas and winter rye,to fix nitrogen and restore nutrients to thesoil.

The learning has been constant and dif-ferent every day, but Murrell is picking itup quickly.

“There’s a difference between not know-ing why you’re there, to where there’s some-thing to be done every day, like in the ser-vice,” Murrell said. “You’re doing this for areason, for your community. It can solve alot of your problems.”

Murrell used to go into the field with hisgrandparents on their North Carolina farmas a boy of nine or 10. He wants to go backto that land and develop it into an organicfarm, for years to come.

“I can see being an old man,” he said,“passing it down.”

For more information on the Arcadia Cen-ter for Sustainable Food and Agriculture,visit www.arcadiafood.org.

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Art Therapy Helps VeteransFrom Page 1

Tor Peery shows one of his ceramicmugs to National Endowment forthe Arts Chairman Jane Chu.

Jon Meadows with one of his claysculptures.

Mount Vernon Gazette Editor Steven Mauren

703-778-9415 or [email protected]

husband to see Jones. She said that as soonas they found out an art therapist would bejoining the program, she began pressing onthe people who ran the program, askingwhen she would arrive. Jon Meadows wasthe first patient Jones worked with whenshe started at IMPart.

“It’s helped me out with my vision anddexterity,” said Jonathan Meadows. “Issaved my life.”

Melissa Meadows said her husband usedart therapy in conjunction to other treat-ments.

“I don’t know where he would be with-out it,” said Melissa Meadows.

Jon Meadows said he was skeptical atfirst, and others agreed that they had beenas well, but each of them now said thatJones’ sessions was the therapy they lookedforward to.

“I thought it was crazy, ‘drawing my feel-ings,’ but this works,” said Peery.

Jones said the reluctance isn’t uncommon.““Pretty much everyone who walks in is

hesitant,” said Jones, “but most leave thefirst day feeling the benefits.”

Peery described one of the exercises heworked through with Meadows. Jones toldhim to imagine a box, and to put all of hishappy memories inside the box while leav-ing all of the dark thoughts outside. ForPeery, it’s a way of separating out the badmoments from the good.

“It’s not about forgetting,” said Peery, “it’sabout processing.”

Jones said this type of processing is at thecenter of the art therapy work.

“You can see moments of insight and selfunderstanding,” said Jones. “Many findsomething they’ve suppressed. You alsonotice progression through emotions; de-pression to hope and acceptance. We do alot to honor and celebrate aspects of careerand self.”

Jones said that the art can sometimes bejarring, but that it’s all based in personalexperiences. According to Jones, the clay isalso a very helpful part of that process.

“It’s great for frustration tolerance,” saidJones. “You don’t know what your chemi-cal changes will be, so sometimes you haveto just be willing to let [your preconcep-tions] go.”

Meerfeld says clay is the perfect mediumfor those surviving with PTSD.

“Clay is very tactile,” said Merrfeld. “Itactivates so many senses that can help thehealing process.”

For Jon Meadows, the clay helped himregain many of the fine motor skills his in-juries had taken from him.

“It really helped me,” said Jon Meadows.“If you didn’t like it, you can squish it andredo it again. You can sit there and playwith the clay, feel it with your fingersthrough it.”

Since the program’s inception, Bethel saidthe program has served between 60 and 70

victims of PTSD with an average of 18 regu-lar patients each week. With many of themstationed in Ft. Belvoir, Bethel said theyregularly see soldiers cycling through. Manyare discharged from active duty. Bethel saidshe tries to follow up with the local areasthe soldiers move towards afterwards, butmany locations don’t have programs likeIMPart.

“For many of them, [these programs]haven’t taken off in their home towns,” saidBethel. “But with NEA making this a focuspoint, maybe in the future there could bestronger focus on networking with thoselocal groups.”


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News

ScholarshipDr. Douthard R. Butler, chairman, Northern VirginiaBlack Chamber of Commerce, officially recognizedand presented on Oct. 15 a scholarship check in theamount of $2,000 to Gabrielle Lozama who gradu-ated from South Lakes High School in Reston and isnow a first year student at Virginia Tech with adouble major — multi-media journalism and fashionmerchandise and design. The Northern Virginia BlackChamber of Commerce, is based in Gum Springs. Visitwww.northernvirginiabcc.org.

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Food CollectionTo mark Oct. 25 as World Pasta Day, Gold’s GymAlexandria on Richmond Highway issued a“World Pasta Day Challenge” to its membersduring October, encouraging them to donateboxes of pasta to help stock the Food Pantry atUnited Community Ministries. Above is personaltrainer John Scott lifting one of the bins of 100pounds of donated pasta — just part of the morethan 750 pounds collected. To host a HolidayFood Collection Drive for UCM, [email protected]. DecemberHoliday Food is due no later than Dec. 11.

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By Jacob Atagi

West Potomac High School

It’s the 1700s, pirates are sailing the highseas, and there’s treasure to be found.With lively main actors, an energetic

ensemble, and carefully choreographedscenes, Oakton High School’s “Treasure Is-land” on Nov. 13 captures the swash-buck-

ling adventures of the time.Premiering in the Tony

award-winning Alley Theatre in2007, Ken Ludwig’s play adap-

tation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s book“Treasure Island” follows the story of ayoung Jim Hawkins (Madison Carter) andhis journey for buried treasure. The drunkand paranoid pirate Black Dog (Max Torti)stumbles into Jim’s family tavern, and af-ter dying from a heart attack leaves Jim witha map leading to buried treasure. Jim with

the help of a wealthy but eccentric SquireTrelawney (Madeline Doane) and the in-telligent Dr. Livesy (Sam Harmic) embarkson a voyage to Treasure Island. On the wayto Treasure Island the charismatic and cal-culating Long John Silver (MichaelWilliamson), a pirate who has joined thecrew as a cook, leads a mutiny leaving Jimand his allies on the island. With a littlequick thinking and the help of the maroonedsailor Ben Gunn (Tim Cerva) Jim is able tooutwit the pirates and come home with trea-sure and the story of a life time.

The main actors in the play grabbed yourattention the moment they stepped onstage. Especially notable was Williamson.His well crafted pirate voice rang through-out the theatre adding to his already strongstage presence. Williamson’s peg leg walk,and excellent facial expressions made theplay very believable. Doane wonderfully

alleviated the darker parts of the play withgreat comedic timing.

The energy and engagement of the pirateensemble made every scene vibrant andexciting. One stand out in the ensemble wasErick McIntosh playing Israel Hands, arough and tumble pirate mutineer. Torti,while only in the first act, was the highlightof the scenes he was in. Torti made use ofevery second he was on stage to really cap-ture the paranoia of the pirate Black Dog.

The real treat of the evening was the fightscenes, choreographed by Craig Lawrence.They spanned the entire stage and incor-porated blood for wounds, and charactershandsomely handled their weapons. Thisalong with the great choreography of thefight, made for a visually impressive scene.

Finding Treasure on ‘Treasure Island’

The following incidents were reported by theMount Vernon District Police Station.

HIT&RUN, DWI, ASSAULT ON A LAW EN-FORCEMENT OFFICER: Buckman Road/RussellRoad, Nov. 23, 12:57 a.m. An officer responded tothe report of an Acura sedan that hit a telephonepole and was attempting to drive away. As the of-ficer arrived and parked: emergency lights on, thefemale driver of the Acura failed to stop beforestriking the police cruiser. The driver was detainedand found to be highly intoxicated. As she wasbeing placed under arrest, she kicked the officer.The 39-year-old woman was charged with DWI-3rd

offense, hit and run, obstruction of justice and as-sault on a law enforcement officer.

ROBBERY, 3700 block of Shannons Green Way,Nov. 19 around 8:06 p.m. The victim met the sus-pect via an Internet website and agreed to meet thesuspect for the sale of an electronic device. Thesuspect took the device by force and fled. The vic-tim did not require medical attention. The suspectwas described as black and wearing all-white cloth-ing.

ATTEMPTED ROBBERY/TRESPASSING/DESTRUCTION, 6007 Richmond Highway, Nov.19 around 8:15 a.m. Two men and two womenentered a hotel room through an unsecured door.Hotel staff confronted them and told them to leave.As one of the hotel employees called police, one ofthe suspects attempted to take the phone by force.

HIT & RUN CRASH W/APPREHENSION:Rt. 1 and Old Mt. Vernon Hwy., Nov. 18, 11:55p.m. An officer observed a hit and run crash wherean injury was sustained. That officer broadcast alookout for the striking vehicle. The vehicle wasspotted by another officer and a traffic stop wasinitiated. The driver of the striking vehicle initiallyfailed to stop and a short pursuit ensued. The sus-pect vehicle stopped without incident and thedriver was arrested. The driver, a 33-year-old manfrom Alexandria, was charged with felony hit andrun, eluding, DUI, and possession of marijuana.The occupants of the vehicle that was struck weretransported to a local hospital with non-life-threat-ening injuries.

NOV. 23LARCENIES1600 block of Belle View Boulevard, purse from

business7200 block of Jon Paul Drive, mirrors from ve-

hicle7800 block of Richmond Highway, phone from

businessNOV. 20LARCENIES2400 block of Fairhaven Avenue, property from

business.2300 block of Huntington Avenue, wine from

business.6200 block of Quander Road, cash from resi-

dence.NOV. 19LARCENIES2500 block of Parkers Lane, property from ve-

hicleNOV. 18LARCENIES2300 block of Huntington Avenue, merchandise

from business

Crime Report

Cappies

Review

Cappies is a high school critics and awards pro-gram involving more than 50 schools in the Virginia,Maryland and D.C. area.


For more information: www.RexReiley.comEach Office Independently Owned and Operated

[email protected]

Rex ReileyRE/MAX Allegiance

Alex./Sunny View $390,0003411 Little Hunting Creek

This wonderful, all-brick ramblerwith vaulted, exposed beamceilings, is bursting w/charm &character. Beautiful hdwd floors,6-panel interior doors, freshlypainted interior, all maintainedmeticulously by its owners,makes this the perfect starter

home. Combine this w/a beautiful lot, detached garage/workshop & youhave a total winner. 5 mins to Ft. Belvoir (S), 15 mins to OldTown, Alex(N), an ideal location & a very affordable price. Turn-key, ready for you!

Alex./Stratford Landing$529,900

2403 Cavendish DriveLovely 3 BR, 2.5 BA Colonial burst-ing w/charm – wood flrs under qual-ity carpeting on main & upper lev-els. Spacious eat-in kitchenw/beautiful oak cabinets & Coriancounters – upgraded baths. Familyrm & den along with work-shop/utility rm on lower level. Tons

of storage in both floored attics w/pull-down stairs. Lovely screenedporch/carport overlooks a deck & beautifully landscaped & fenced bkyd. Qualityhome for an attractive price – minutes to Ft. Belvoir (S) & Old Town, Alex (N).

Alex./Riverside Estates$674,900

8425 Mt. Vernon HighwayBeautiful home w/over 4,000sq ft & 2-lvl addition in lovelyRiverside Estates. Great rmon main lvl w/gas fpl & wetbar. Adjacent family rmw/wood-burning fpl. Anoffice adjoins the gorgeous

20’ x 32’ master bedrm addition w/vaulted Douglas Fir ceiling &skylights. Library /studio on upper lvl addition. Both HVACsystems. HWH & roof replaced 2011. Close to Fort Belvoir.

Hollin Hall $489,0007924 Jackson Rd.

1,300 sq. ft. Hollin Hall rambleris an oasis for NATURE LOVERS:perennials abound in the frontyard, and a huge Koi pond,greenhouse and raised gardenbeds are in the backyard. Beautifulupscale renovated kitchen. Newlyrefinished hardwood floors andinterior painting. 2 baths and 2

bedrooms, but 3rd bedroom could be easily configured from part of the largeFamily Room addition. Walk-in closet. Newer HVAC, replacement windows,new hot water heater. WAYNEWOOD ELEMENTARY.

Builders – Beautiful .73acre lot, zoned R-3.Dominion Surveys hasdone preliminary surveyreport for subdivisionwhich can be e-mailedupon request – lookingfor quick sale/settle-ment and priced theproperty accordingly.

Alex./Mt. Vernon Woods 4006 Buckman Road $449,900

OPEN

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News

The Virginia Association of Counties presentedits highest award to former VACo Presidentand current Fairfax County Supervisor

Gerald W. Hyland on Nov. 8 during VACo’s 81stAnnualConference in Bath County.Hyland was the sixthFairfax County supervisor to serve as VACo Presidentwhen he was elected in 2002.

The former 30-year Air Force veteran contributedhis time and talent to multiple VACo committees aswell as assisting and partnering with supervisors fromacross the state.“I have served on the VACo Board ofDirectors for the past 19 years,” said Past Presidentand fellow Fairfax County Supervisor Penny Gross.No former VACo board member has more ‘street cred’

in VACo and NACo than Gerry Hyland.During his many terms in office, Gerry has built

bridges to elected officials in other counties and otherstates, which helped put VACo on the national map.”Hyland is a member of the NACo board of directorsthrough his VACo appointment.

He has served on numerous NACo committees andtask forces, including the Finance Committee andthe Programs and Services Committee.Hyland runsa private law practice, Hyland and Hyland. He alsoowns a working farm on Virginia’s EasternShore.Hyland is the first Jefferson Cup recipient since2012 when VACo honored former Henrico CountyManager Virgil Hazelett.

From left : Jeff McKay (Springfield District supervisor), Linda Smyth (Providence Dis-trict supervisor), Gerry Hyland (Mount Vernon District supervisor), Penny Gross (Vir-ginia Association of Counties immediate past president and Mason District supervisor),Sharon Bulova (Fairfax County Board of Supervisors chairman) and Sallie Clark (Na-tional Association of Counties president)

State Group Honors Hyland


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A Connection Newspaper

Opinion

There is a joy to participating in com-munity traditions and celebrationsduring the holidays, from walkingalong a sidewalk with the streets

decked out for the holidays, to shopping inlocal stores, to being greeted by someone likelyto be the owner of the store, to finding giftsthat are not mass-produced.

One way to be sure holiday shoppingcomes with some holiday spirit is to doa portion of your shopping in some ofthe area’s locally owned stores. Thereis special holiday ambiance available by shop-ping in the heart of a town that is decked outfor the season. Small retail shops are part ofdefining any community. Their livelihood de-pends on the livability and quality of the neigh-borhoods around them. A small business ownerpays attention to every detail in his or her busi-ness in a way that is otherwise unmatched.

We all benefit when local stores thrive, whenlocal business districts beckon. An effort tosupport locally owned businesses has resultedin the recognition of Small Business Saturday,the Saturday after Thanksgiving, also calledShop Small. This year that day is Nov. 28.

Locally owned retail shops, services, restau-rants depend on vibrant local communities tothrive, and communities depend on those busi-nesses as well. Most small, locally owned busi-nesses invest in community, helping to trans-form our towns and communities with a senseof place.

Frequently, it is the small retail person whois active in fundraising for local charities, ad-vocating for improvements, for fire and res-cue service, for local schools and in organiz-ing holiday events.

Local retail stores, mom-and-popstores, face tough challenges right now.Competition from big box stores andonline sellers makes the holiday shop-

ping season all the more important to locallyowned retailers. But local families will liter-ally spend millions of dollars to shop and ex-change gifts during the next month in a vari-ety of places.

Everyone will do some of their shopping atthe mall. Everyone will shop online. Many willanswer the call of the big box. But local shop-pers should be sure to do some celebrating,shopping and dining locally. We promise itbrings more joy.

— Mary Kimm

[email protected]

Every day can be“small business day.”

Celebrate, Shop, Dine LocallyChildren’s Gazette

During the last week of each year, The Ga-zette devotes its entire issue to the creativityof local students and children. It is a keepsakeedition for many families. The annualChildren’s Gazette is a tradition of well over adecade.

We publish artwork, poetry, essays, creativewriting, opinion pieces, short stories, photog-raphy, photos of sculpture or gardens or othercreative efforts.

We ask that all submissions be digital so theycan be sent through email or delivered on CDor flash drive. Writing should be submitted inrich text format (.rtf). Artwork should be pho-tographed or scanned and provided in jpegformat.

We welcome contributions from public andprivate schools, individuals andhomeschoolers. To be published, we must havefirst and last name of the student. Please in-clude the student’s age and/or grade, schoolattended and town of residence.

Identify each piece of writing or art, includ-ing the student’s full name, age, grade andtown of residence, plus the name of the school,name of teacher and town of school location.Please provide submissions by Friday, Dec. 4.

Email submissions for the Children’s Gazetteto [email protected].

Editorial

More Trails,PleaseTo the Editor:

Among the many benefits of living in theMount Vernon area, my family and I count theMount Vernon Estate as among the top. Asmembers for many years we have enjoyed allthe seasons at this cherished historical site.Residents of the Mount Vernon area are veryfortunate to live near the home of our nation’sfirst President. Most of you have undoubtedlyvisited Mount Vernon and enjoyed, firsthand,walking in the footsteps of the Father of ourCountry.

In particular, we are grateful for the gracioushospitality of the Mount Vernon Estate — thatnot only opens its doors and beautiful groundsto people — but welcomes our canine familymembers as well. We have walked many dogsover the years around the Estate, some betterbehaved than others, but what remains un-changed is our enthusiasm and love of itswalkability and natural beauty.

However, while there are wonderful walk-ing paths in and around the estate, hundredsof acres remain largely inaccessible to visitors.Mount Vernon encourages nearby residents tojoin as yearly members both as a way to en-sure its solvency and to bolster support fromthe community. While many local residentsenjoy the wine tastings, fireworks and otherevents, many of us simply join each year forthe benefit of walking the grounds and takingin one of the most outstanding views of thePotomac in the D.C. area.

For this reason, I hope the Mount Vernon

Estate would consider opening up additionalgrounds to visitors through the creation ofmore trails. I do understand that the Estatehas limited funds and many financial obliga-tions, however, I believe that more MountVernon residents might be drawn to yearlymemberships by additional walking pathsthroughout the estate. I know there are manyin our local community who enjoy

hiking the grounds of the Estate and the cre-ation of more walks — down by the water orin the forested areas — would be a welcomebenefit.

Perhaps the trails could be a blazed as part

of a community project or during the summermonths when many students seek temporaryemployment in our area. And, while there arecertainly costs associated with these additionaltrails, they could be offset by the increase inmembership.

In short, I believe the creation of additionalwalking paths at Mount Vernon could be a win-win for the Estate as well as for local residentsand out-of-town visitors alike. John Muir said,“in every walk with nature one receives farmore than he seeks.” I thank the Estate forproviding my family such a wonderful sanctu-ary and hope that by opening more of the beau-tiful natural surroundings to visitors we canoffer even more than we seek.

Anne P. HollowayAlexandria

Join EffortTo Help SchoolsTo the Editor:

School Superintendent Garza’s Budget TaskForce recently released recommendations forbudget cuts to meet Fairfax County PublicSchool’s (FCPS) potential 2017 FY budgetshortfall of $50-75 million. Dr. Garza estab-lished the Budget Task Force last spring in an-ticipation of this expected shortfall caused bydeclining per pupil funding by the State of Vir-ginia and Fairfax County, increased costs asso-ciated with increased student enrollment (withhigh needs), past state pension underfunding

Photo courtesy of Anne P Holloway

Pooka Belle takes in the view at theMount Vernon Estate.

Letters to the Editor

See Letters, Page 7


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Letters

From Page 6

See Letters, Page 9

and health care costs. The Task Force rec-ommendations proposing increases in stu-dent fees and class sizes and other cuts inadministrative expenses, programs andstaffing represent the first steps in Dr.Garza’s proposed balanced budget to theSchool Board that she will be presentingJan. 7.

In addition to the approximately 75 per-cent local funding and 20 percent statefunding, the FCPS budget is also dependenton receiving federal funding for impact aid,Title 1 and special education. The fundsmade available by each of these fundingbodies impacts the ability of the school sys-tem to meet the needs of Fairfax County’sstudents, especially in districts such as Mt.Vernon where the percentages of education-ally needier students is much higher andthe costs of educating students to meet statestandards much greater.

Per student school budget funding is lessthan what it was in real dollars 10 yearsago, even while state standards have risenand our students have greater needs. Gov-ernor McAuliffe has expressed his intent toincrease funding for K-12 education in hisbudget to be released in December. Simi-larly, Chairman Bulova has urged the gov-ernor to make more funds available for ourschools. Our Mt. Vernon and Lee electedstate and local representatives have ex-pressed their support for this initiative, es-pecially “Cost to Compete” funding which

helps supplement our area’s higher costsand we get a larger share. Education fund-ing is a critical legislative priority for notonly your local representatives, but it needsyour direct support as well to reduce theneed for major budget cuts. We urge you toshow your support by directly contactingthe Governor’s office at 804-786-2211,[email protected] or:

The Honorable Terry McAuliffeGovernor of Virginia1111 East Broad StreetRichmond, VA 23219There are numerous opportunities for

community members to provide insightsinto the budgeting process, beginning witha Mount Vernon District FCPS budget townmeeting on Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. at SandburgMiddle School. We need you to be involvedbefore the Superintendent releases her pro-posed budget on Jan. 7, 2016, the CountyExecutive releases his FY 2017 AdvertisedBudget Plan on Feb. 16, the Board of Su-pervisors advertises their tax rate on March1 and adopts the County Budget and taxrate on April 26, and the School Boardadopts its final budget on May 26, 2016. Ifyou are as concerned as we are about thecontinued impact on school funding on Mt.Vernon District students, please write or callyour representatives and attend our Dec. 9meeting. We look forward to serving you inour new roles.


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Mass Schedule

Opinion

By Scott A. Surovell

State Delegate (D-44)

State Senator-Elect (D-36)

Last week, I joined the Virginia

Senate’s Finance Committee inPortsmouth for briefings onVirginia’s economy, revenue projec-

tions and other important issues facing the statelegislature. More on that later. While in Ports-mouth, I toured two significant and under-ap-preciated Virginia assets.

While neither the shipyard nor the Port is lo-cated in Northern Virginia, both have a signifi-cant impact on our quality of life and the en-tire state’s economy. A healthy Port of Virginiahas beneficial ripple effects across the wholestate.

Newport News Shipbuilding, dating to 1886,is the only facility in the U.S. capable of con-structing an aircraft carrier and one of two in

the country that can build asubmarine.

We started in the foundrywhere they manufacture

large steel ship components. The level of preci-sion, craftsmanship and quality that goes intomaking these pieces cannot be understated —it was amazing and there are no do-overs inthis process. They walked us through all thesteps: they model a wooden replica of the piecepacked it in a casing with a plumbing systemto facilitate even cooling, pack in sand, fill itwith molten steel and cool it. Then, they breakthe molds apart.

Next, in the facility where submarines are as-sembled, we saw three different Virginia Classsubmarines in various stages of construction.Workers assemble four segments in this facil-ity. General Dynamics Electric Boat in Norwalk,Conn., assembles other segments. After theycomplete the segments, they ship them by bargeand put them together. Leaders showed us howthey have reduced manufacturing time by overa year through efficiencies.

Lastly, we had a drive-by tour of the U.S.S.Gerald R. Ford, the Navy’s next nuclear aircraftcarrier — and the U.S.S. Enterprise, which theyare decommissioning before tugging it to theWest Coast and scrapping it.

Newport News Shipbuilding has its own col-lege which trains workers who earn college de-

grees. The company hasmany traditions, includingits own challenge coin. Itemploys 20,000 very proudworkers, mostly Virginians,50 percent of whom aremembers of United Steel-workers Local 888. Every-one there does incrediblework.

I also toured two segments of the Port of Vir-ginia, first Norfolk International Terminals(NIT). NIT was alive with activity. We watchedpeople thousands of containers being loaded,unloaded and waiting for pickup or shipmentback across the sea.

Port Authority officials described their needfor about $380 million in capital investment tokeep pace with competing ports in New York,Baltimore and Charleston. Bigger ships are com-ing after improvements to the Panama and SuezCanals and efficiency is critical.

Next we toured the Virginia InternationalGateway (VIG). A soybean farm in 2007, todayVIG is one of only two semi-automated cargocenters in the western hemisphere.

We watched a series of rail-guided cranes au-tomatically take containers on and off ships andput them onto trucks. When trucks comethrough the entrance, cranes start to move con-tainers into place for delivery. The only part ofthe process that is not automated is positioningcontainers onto the trailer chassis.

The Port currently receives over 5,000 tonsof cargo worth over $15 million to and frombusinesses headquartered in the 36th SenateDistrict. That excludes goods sold at retail storessuch as Costco, Walmart, car dealerships andgrocery stores.

The Port needs a major capital infusion to au-tomate remaining port facilities, deepen chan-nels, and complete an expansion on Craney Is-land in order to increase capacity by nearly700,000 containers per year, about a 50 per-cent increase.

Next week, I will write about the health ofthe Virginia economy, the state budget outlookand some major budget drivers facing the 2016General Assembly convening in January.

It is an honor to serve you in Richmond. Pleaseemail me at [email protected] to shareyour views and questions.

Importance of Virginia’s Port

Commentary

Viewpoints

“What are you thankful for,this Thanksgiving?” Photos by Renée Ruggles/

The Gazette

Linda Williams: “I have myfaith in the Lord, knowing he isalways going to be there andhas his hand on things. I’m sothankful for special needschildren; learning to haveempathy and I’m much morepatient.”

Peter Huang (right) and hisson, Alex: “I am thankful forSpecial Olympics taking careof special needs children. Alexlearned figure skating. He canskate on one foot, now.”

Renee Belletomasini anddaughter, Winter Kosz. Winteris thankful for books and iceskating practice. Renee: “I’mthankful for her health. I’mthankful that she’s a good girland for family and friends.”

Tracy Dores: “I really thank Godthat I am alive and have abeautiful daughter, family, andfriends. I’m thankful just forbeing able to get out of bed inthe morning. We take so muchfor granted. It helps to have athankful heart.”


The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but notbe limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service and it may includeapproximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warrantedand you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliatedwith Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are notemployees of the Company. ©2015 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved.Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act andthe Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, theColdwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Previews Internationaland the Previews logo are registered and unregistered servicemarks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.10713WDC_05/15

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Letters

From Page 7

See Letters, Page 10

Dan Storck, Mt. Vernon Member ofthe Fairfax County School Board and

Mt. Vernon Supervisor ElectKaren Corbett Sanders

Mt. Vernon Member Elect of theFairfax County School Board

Dumfries HonorsToddy PullerTo the Editor:

Town of Dumfries Mayor Jerry Foremanpresented state Senator Linda “Toddy” Puller aTown Resolution at her home in Alexandria,honoring her years of service as a delegate andsenator for the State of Virginia.

Senator Puller is an outstanding indi-vidual; I have supported her efforts in thepast and remain committed to her efforts.As a Marine and a proponent of transporta-tion, veterans benefits, education, economicdevelopment and ensuring our first re-sponders are taken care of .... these are thesame concerns Senator Puller has advo-cated.

Toddy has served the 36th Senatorial Dis-trict of Virginia with distinction and has al-ways fought for her constituents with a firmcommitment to resolve concerns; and hasearned the admiration and high regard fromfellow General Assembly members, as wellas from constituents she has proudly servedfor many years. Senator Puller, 36th Sena-torial District of Virginia, is recognized for

her leadership, dedication, and unselfishdistinguished public service to Virginia andthe citizens of the Town of Dumfries.

It is with gratitude and best wishes fromthe Town Council, staff, and all the citizensof the Town of Dumfries be extended toSenator Puller for continued good health,good fortune, and happiness in a pleasur-able retirement and all other future endeav-ors.

Gerald “Jerry” ForemanMayor

Town of Dumfries

HerrityIs SilentTo the Editor:

One of the most pressing issues facing theFairfax County Board of Supervisors is ourproposed appointment of a Citizen ReviewPanel that would accept and investigate citi-zen allegations to the Chief of Police and/or the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.While a majority of the Board of Supervi-sors have gone on record as favoring ourproposal, there is a minority that have ig-nored it including Supervisor Pat Herrity.His refusal to address this issue is a perfectexample of dereliction of duty by an electedpublic official. In Supervisor Herrity’s dis-trict there have been several incidents


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Letters

From Page 9

where the police have shot andkilled unarmed citizens withoutjustification or provocation. Ourown Supervisor Hyland has alsoignored our proposal. This wouldclearly indicate SupervisorHerrity’s disregard for the safetyof his constituents. Hopefully hewill soon speak up and reveal howhe feels about these despicable

acts. For him to remain silent isunconscionable. We have askedSupervisor Herrity about his feel-ings and opinion regarding thisissue. He has failed to respond toour request. The question is why?

Nicholas R. BeltranteExecutive Director

Virginia Citizens Coalition forPolice Accountability, Inc.

Email announcements to [email protected]. Include date,time, location, description and contact forevent: phone, email and/or website. Pho-tos and artwork welcome. Deadline isThursday at noon, at least two weeks be-fore event.

THROUGH DEC. 4Accepting Donations. At Christian

Relief Services, 8301 RichmondHighway. Christian Relief Servicesprovides more than 2,700 frozenturkeys to its grassroots partners inGeorgia, Kentucky, Tennessee andWest Virginia during the Christmasseason. This year, they are asking forsupport to help ensure children willreceive at least one toy from “Santa”this year. Visitwww.christianrelief.org.

THROUGH DEC. 11Citrus Sale Deadline for Orders.

The Mount Vernon Evening LionsClub will be taking orders for orangesand grapefruit. Order deadline isFriday, Dec. 11; delivery on Dec. 19.Call Andrea Corsillo 703-960-4973.

TUESDAY/DEC. 1“Guiding the College-Bound

Athlete.” 7:30 p.m. at MountVernon High School, 8515 OldMount Vernon Road. This seminar isto prepare parents and athletes withinformation and topics for everystudent-athlete in middle and highschool and their parents to educateand prepare them for opportunitiesand careers after graduation. [email protected].

SATURDAY/DEC. 5School Open House. 2-4 p.m. at

Burgundy Farm Country Day School,3700 Burgundy Road. School servespre-kindergarten to 8th grade.Childcare available. Call 703-329-6968 to RSVP or schedule a personaltour. Visit www.burgundyfarm.orgfor more.

SUNDAY/JAN. 10School Open House. 2-4 p.m. at

Burgundy Farm Country Day School,3700 Burgundy Road. School servespre-kindergarten to 8th grade.Childcare available. Call 703-329-6968 to RSVP or schedule a personaltour. Visit www.burgundyfarm.orgfor more.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDUnited Community Ministries seeks

volunteers to act as food pantryassistants, basic needs counselors,youth tutors and mentors, officeadmin/data entry, communityoutreach, ESL teachers and co-teachers, and teacher aides. Visitwww.ucmagency.org/volunteer-at-ucm.html.

The Hollin Hall Senior Center needs

a volunteer to maintain a fishaquarium upkeep and instructors forthe following classes: Basic Guitar,Italian, Pottery and Ballroom Dance.Call 703-324-5406 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadultsfor more.

The Mount Vernon Adult DayHealth Care Center in Alexandrianeeds a licensed beautician, a socialcompanion and a Spanish-speakingsocial companion. For these andother volunteer opportunities, call703-324-5406, TTY 711 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadultsand click on Volunteer Solutionsunder “Get Involved.”

Mount Vernon At Home is a non-profit organization that relies onvolunteers to assist older adults agingin place in their homes. Volunteersare needed for local transportation tomedical and personal appointments,errands, and grocery store trips; lighthandyman chores, home technologyand more. No minimum number ofvolunteer hours required. Call MountVernon At Home 703-303-4060 or e-mail [email protected] visitwww.mountvernonathome.org formore.

For these and other volunteeropportunities, call 703-324-5406,TTY 711 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadultsand click on Volunteer Solutions:

❖ The Kingstowne Center for ActiveAdults needs instructors for MosaicArt and Jewelry Making.

❖ The Mount Vernon Adult Day HealthCare Center needs volunteer Englishand Spanish-speaking socialcompanions,and front deskvolunteer.

❖ The Hollin Hall Senior Center aballroom dance instructor to teach aclass on Thursday afternoons, and anItalian instructor.

❖ The Gum Springs Senior Center needsa Spanish teacher.

Volunteer Advocates for NursingHome & Assisted LivingResidents needed throughoutNorthern Virginia. Contact theNorthern Virginia Long-Term CareOmbudsman Program atwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/olderadultservices/ltcombudsman/,or [email protected] orcall 703-324-5861, TTY 711.

Volunteers needed in FairfaxCounty to drive older adults tomedical appointments and wellnessprograms. For these and othervolunteer opportunities, call 703-324-5406, TTY 711 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadultsand click on Volunteer Solutions.

Respite Care volunteers give familycaregivers of a frail older adult awell-deserved break so they can goshopping, attend a doctor’sappointment or just have coffee witha friend. Volunteers visit and overseethe safety of the older adult for a fewhours each month. Support andtraining are provided. Contact KristinMartin at 703-324-7577, TTY 711, [email protected].

Bulletin Board



By Hope Nelson

The Gazette

There’s a new buzz at Buzz thesedays. The first thing regular cus-tomers will notice upon walkingin the door is the new name:

What was once Buzz Bakery has trans-formed into Buzz Bakeshop. Step into theshop, and it’s easy to see that the namechange has manifested into a wholesalerenovation of the space itself.

As the bakeshop settled into its first de-cade in existence, it was time for a change,says Neighborhood Restaurant Group’sMegan Bailey. The time had come “to makeit a little more modern … to make it feel alittle more elegant,” she said.

But the changes aren’t only façade-deep.There’s a new culinary direc-tor at the helm, as well: hautecouture cake artist Maggie Aus-

tin, of Maggie Austin Cake. And Austin’s in-fluence is already being felt throughout theshop, from the menu to the décor.

Buzz’s display case overflows withAustin’s creations, from a soft, decadentpumpkin muffin that has a cream-cheesefilling hiding inside to a s’mores cupcakethat just screams out for a nearby camp-fire. The cornmeal thumbprint cookie isAustin’s mother’s recipe, and the tinybumblebees that adorn many of the sweetsare quickly becoming one of Austin’s signa-tures.

Sweet treats aren’t the only offerings Aus-tin has debuted since she took the helm.Buzz has just unveiled its new quiche, aswell, to give the menu a more savory tone.

“Breakfast is busy … and what I’ve no-ticed is people are coming in and reallywanting something savory,” Austin said.

“Our quiche just came out — the quiche isso good. It is so good.”

Baked with Gruyere and caramelized on-ions and served in a “real-deal crust,” thequiche is indeed proving itself worthy of themorning display case. And new items areon the horizon — just in time for the holi-days.

“We’re just starting to brainstorm aboutwhat we can offer through the holidays. One

For Buzz Bakeshop, Fresh New SeasonMaggie Austin takes the helm as culinary director of newly renovated Buzz Bakeshop.

Couture cake artistMaggie Austin hasbrought her ownflavor – and reci-pes – to thebakeshop’s menu.(Left) BuzzBakeshop sports anew name andlogo alongside itsrenovated interiorand new culinarydirector MaggieAustin.

Appetite

of the things that we’re really excited about… (is) a ‘Buzz Bites’ kind of line,” Austinsaid. “We’re going to have miniature tastesof things,” such as muffins made in bite-sized portions, presented in a “clear, beau-tiful case” — perfect for holiday gifts.

Also on the Christmas list: decoratedsugar cookies. “I love just good-eating food,but a little part of me is like, ‘I just want tomake something a little bit fancy,’” Austin

laughed.The recent facelift at Buzz — both in

structure and taste — is only Phase 1 of thestaff’s plans for the future. Given Austin’svocation, it only makes sense that cakes willbegin to emerge in various ways in the com-ing months, from holiday rum cakes to whatAustin is calling Buzz’s “celebration cakeline,” catering to offices, birthday festivi-ties, and the like. And the menu itself willcontinue to move with the seasons.

“Food is such a subjective thing, so thatin developing all of these recipes … it’s areally tough thing because you can’t pleaseeveryone. And you just have to kind of gowith what you believe is the best represen-tation of any of these products. Our choco-late-chip cookie is not going to be everyone’schocolate-chip cookie. But it’s my chocolate-chip cookie. And I think it’s really good.”

If the empty plates and steady orders areany indication, that opinion isn’t Austin’salone.

Hope Nelson owns and operates the KitchenRecessionista blog, located at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her any time [email protected].

Email announcements to [email protected]. Include date,time, location, description and contact forevent: phone, email and/or website. Pho-tos and artwork welcome. Deadline isThursday at noon, at least two weeks be-fore event.

ONGOINGTorpedo Factory’s Post-Graduate

Studio. Through Nov. 29, duringgallery hours at the Torpedo FactoryArt Center, 105 N. Union St. To wrapup the inaugural year of the TorpedoFactory Art Center’s post-graduate in-house residency program, the TargetGallery will feature the work of thefour participating artists in a groupexhibition. Free. Visitwww.torpedofactory.org for more.

PHOTO ’15 .Through Nov. 29, galleryhours at Multiple Exposures Gallery,155 N. Union St. Senior Curator andHead of the Department ofPhotographs at The National Galleryof Art Sarah Greenough will jury the“PHOTO ‘15” exhibit. Thirty-one fineart photographers will display theirwork. Admission to the gallery isfree. Visitwww.multipleexposuresgallery.com

for more.Mike McConnell: “Flip Side.”

Through Dec. 13, during galleryhours at The Athenaeum, 201 PrinceSt. Mike McConnell was acommercial illustrator who recentlydedicated himself to fine art. Free.Visit www.nvfaa.org for more.

Green Spring Gardens Art Show.Through Dec. 27, gallery hours atGreen Spring Gardens, 4603 GreenSpring Road. Artist Carol Higgsworks in batik, oil, watercolor, andcollage. Painter Joan Wolfe workswith acrylic and Erik and CarolineHottenstein use watercolors. Free.Call 703-642-5173 for more.

“A Broadway Christmas Carol.”Through Dec. 27 at various times atMetroStage, 1201 N. Royal St.Created by Kathy Feininger anddirected by Michael Sharp, thisMetroStage holiday tradition is across between the classic Dickens’tale and Broadway parodies. Ticketsare $50. Visit www.metrostage.org.

“Not-So-Modern” Jazz QuartetPerformance. Thursdays throughDec. 31, 7:30-10 p.m. at St. Elmo’sCoffee Pub, 2300 Mount Vernon Ave.Not So Modern Jazz Music playsmusic from the glory days oftraditional jazz, including tunes from

traditional Dixieland and the Swingera. Free. Visitwww.stelmoscoffeepub.com.

Tag on 3rd: Gallery 311 OpeningExhibit. Through Dec. 31, 11 a.m.-6p.m. at The Associates Gallery at theTorpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St.The Associates’ Gallery is re-openingin a renovated space on the TorpedoFactory’s third floor, studio 311. Theexhibit will honor Robert Rosselle, asculptor who died in July. Heoccupied Studio 311 for many years,and two of his sculptures will takecenter stage in the group’s new show.Free. Visit www.torpedofactory.org.

“Nature’s Journey.” Through Jan. 2,at American Horticultural Society,7931 East Boulevard Drive. DarleneKaplan will exhibit more than 60 ofher original oriental brush paintingsin a one-person art exhibition. Free.Visit www.darlenekaplan.com formore.

Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery:“Winter Wonderland.” ThroughJan. 3, gallery hours at The TorpedoFactory Art Center–Studio 18, 105 N.Union St. Artists working in textilefocus on “sparkle and shine, cleanand white.” Free. Visitwww.potomacfiberartsgallery.com.

“George Washington’s

Thanksgiving Proclamation.”Through Jan. 6, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. atGeorge Washington’s Mount Vernon,3200 Mount Vernon MemorialHighway. This exhibit will detail thehistory of Thanksgiving at MountVernon. On October 3, 1789,Washington issued his Thanksgivingproclamation, designating for “thePeople of the United States a day ofpublic thanks-giving.” Admission tothe exhibit is included in MountVernon ticket prices. Tickets are $17for adults, $9 for children, and freefor children ages 5 and younger. Visitwww.mountvernon.org/thanksgiving.

VCA Alexandria Animal HospitalArt Show. Through Jan. 31 at VCAAlexandria Animal Hospital, 2660Duke St. The artwork is on display inwaiting areas and examination roomsas a part of Del Ray Artisans’ GalleryWithout Walls program. Free. Visitwww.TheDelRayArtisans.org formore.

“Ancient Art of Movement.” 1 p.m.at Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500Shenandoah Road. Carmen Shippy,retired professional dancer, teaches aseries designed for ages 50 andabove. Movements are designed tostrengthen core muscles and increaseflexibility. Adjustments will be made

for those with physical limitations.First lesson in the series is free fornon-center members. To continuelessons, a yearly membership to allSenior Center programs is $48. Call703-765-4573 to sign up.

Flamenco Show. Wednesdays andThursdays, 7:30-8:30 p.m. at LaTasca, 607 King St. Watch dancersand guitarists perform traditionalflamenco. Free to attend. Call 703-299-9810 or visitwww.latascausa.com.

French Movie Night. Every Thursday,7 p.m. in the back room of FontaineCaffe & Creperie, 119 S. Royal St.View a French film. Free, noreservation necessary. Call 703-535-8151 or visitwww.fontainecaffe.com/reviews.html.

Journey to Be Free: AlexandriaFreedmen’s Cemetery. ThroughMarch, Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4p.m. Alexandria Black HistoryMuseum, 902 Wythe St. A newexhibit tracing the 150-year historyof the long-forgotten Freedmen’sCemetery, its rediscovery and howthe new Contrabands and Freedmen’sCemetery Memorial was created atthe site. Call 703-746-4356.

Their Fates Intertwined: The Lees

Entertainment

Calendar


Exp. 12/31/15

Purchase one-of-a-kind ceramic vessels & sculptures created bystudents & associates of The Art League. These handmade creations

by more than 30 artists are perfect for holiday gift giving.Location:The Art League’s Madison Annex305 Madison StreetOld Town Alexandria, VA

Hours:Friday, December 4: 12:00 noon–9:00 pmArtfête holiday party, 6:00–9:00 pm!Saturday, December 5: 10:00 am–6:00 pmSunday, December 6: 12:00 noon–5:00 pm

Information:theartleague.org@theartleague

Little Theatre of Alexandria

600 Wolfe Street • 703-683-0496

www.thelittletheatre.com

Ring in the holidayseason with a return

of the classic byCharles Dickens.A must see for the

entire family.

SHOW DATES:December 4-19

2015

of Alexandria in the War of1812. Wednesday- Saturday, 10a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Lee-Fendall House and Gardens, 614Oronoco St. A new exhibit on theexperiences of the Lee family inAlexandria during the War of 1812examines the contributions ofAlexandria’s citizens during theconflict that led to the writing of ournational anthem through the lives ofthis iconic Virginia family. Visitwww.leefendallhouse.org or call 703-548-1789.

Alexandria Cars and Coffee invitescar enthusiasts to meet for coffee atHollin Hall Shopping Center in frontof Roseina’s, 1307 Shenandoah Road.Owners of classic cars, hot rods,exotic cars, motorcycles and moremeet to share car stories and drinkcoffee. Group meets the first Sundayof every month. 8:30-11 a.m.

Fifty Years of Collecting. Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sundays 12-5 p.m. Fort Ward Museum, 4301 W.Braddock Road. An anniversaryexhibit of objects from the Fort Wardcollection. Free. Visitwww.fortward.org or call 703-746-4848.

National Inventors Hall of FameExhibit. Through November 2016 atThe National Inventors Hall of Fame–USPTO campus, 600 Dulany St. Theexhibit features the stories ofInductees of the National InventorsHall of Fame who served theircountry during World War II andreturned home to help build thenation with their innovations. Free.Visit www.inventnow.org.

Dinner for the Washingtons. 12p.m. at George Washington’s MountVernon, 3200 Mount VernonMemorial Highway. A walking tourthat goes behind the scenes to findout how food was prepared andserved before the era of microwavesand TV dinners. $5 in addition toestate admission. Visitwww.mountvernon.org for more.

FRIDAY/NOV. 27BlackFriday Alexandria and

Festivities. 6 a.m. and all day atboutiques in Alexandria. More than50 local boutiques will open early,offering once-a-year deals. Free. Visit

www.visitalexandriava.com/blackfriday.

Tea With Santa Claus. 3-5 p.m. atUnion Street Public House, 121 S.Union St. Tea, cocoa, and othersweets will be served alongsidestorytelling and magic tricks. At theend of the tea, Santa and Mrs. Clauswill lead a parade to Old Town’s treelighting ceremony. Tickets are $10for children under 12 and $20 foradult or child 12 and older. Visitwww.unionstreetpublichouse.com.

City of Alexandria Tree LightingCeremony. 6-8 p.m. at MarketSquare in front of City Hall, 301 KingSt. The mayor and Santa Claus willlight the city tree. Mr. and Mrs. Clausvisit, and more. Free. Visitwww.alexandriava.gov for more.

NOV. 27-JAN. 6Christmas at Mount Vernon. 9 a.m.-

4 p.m. at George Washington’sMount Vernon, 3200 Mount VernonMemorial Highway. Visit GeorgeWashington’s estate and see Aladdinthe camel on the grounds, in honorof the camel that Washington paid tovisit Mount Vernon in 1787. Strollthrough Mount Vernon’s modernbuildings and view sparkling holidaydecorations, featuring 12 dazzlingChristmas trees, and historicalchocolate-making demonstrations.Also visit the rarely-open third floorof the Mansion. All is included in thegeneral admission price which is $17for adults, $16 for seniors, $9 foryouth ages 6-11, and free for children5 and under. Visitwww.mountvernon.org/christmas formore.

NOV. 27-28, DEC. 4-5, DEC. 20Mount Vernon by Candlelight. 5-8

p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, atGeorge Washington’s Mount Vernon,3200 Mount Vernon MemorialHighway. Take character-guidedtours, listen to caroling, watch 18th-century dancing, and see areproduction of Martha Washington’s“Great Cake” recipe. “Mrs.Washington” and Aladdin theChristmas camel will also be on site.Tickets are $22 for adults and $15for youth. Visit

www.mountvernon.org/christmas formore.

SATURDAY/NOV. 28Pete Kennedy. 7:30 p.m. at The

Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave.Pete Kennedy performs with his wifeMaura and Seldom Scene. Tickets are$35. Visit www.birchmere.com formore.

MONDAY/NOV. 30Meditation Classes. 7 p.m. at James

M. Duncan Branch Library, 2501Commonwealth Ave. Learn how tomeditate or renew a stalled habit.Terri Carr will lead a class on thebenefits of group meditation withguided breathing, concentration andvisualization exercises. Free. Call202-489-3619.

Kirkin of the Tartan and EveningPrayer. 7:30 p.m. at St. Andrew &St. Margaret of Scotland AnglicanChurch, 402 E. Monroe Ave. Theservice will include a blessing ofScottish tartans, a bagpiper, andScottish music. It will be followed bya reception with Scottish foods andbeverages. Free. Call 703-683-3343.

TUESDAY/DEC. 1Open House & Mary Thonen

Awards Ceremony. 4-7 p.m. at ElPaso Mexican Restaurant, 6151Richmond Highway. Learn moreabout the Southeastern FairfaxDevelopment Corporation, overcomplimentary drinks and appetizers.The winners of the Mary ThonnenHighway Beautification Awards willbe announced. Free. Visitwww.sfdc.org for more.

WEDNESDAY/DEC. 2Movie Screening. 6:30-9 p.m. at

Duncan Branch Library, 2501Commonwealth Ave. This is the nextinstallment of the “Classic ScrewballComedies of the Thirties and Forties”series. Free. Call 703-746-1705 forthe film title.

Holiday Children’s Magic Show. 7-8:15 p.m. at Bishop Ireton HighSchool, 201 Cambridge Road. Fourchildren’s magicians perform.

Entertainment

Each year, the City of Alexandria holds a formal ceremony celebrating the illuminationof the city tree that stands in front of City Hall, 301 King St. Free. Visitwww.alexandriava.gov for more.

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Children and attending adults canbring a toy (preferred) or cannedfood item to be donated to theAlexandria Citadel of the SalvationArmy. Free. Contact Danny Selnick at703-347-5540 [email protected].

THURSDAY-SATURDAY/DEC. 3-5“The Nutcracker.” 7 p.m. on Friday

and Thursday, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. onSaturday at the Richard J. ErnstCommunity Cultural Center, 8333Little River Turnpike, Annandale.Metropolitan School of the Arts ofAlexandria and Lorton, presents aclassic performance of Clara and herNutcracker in a journey from herhome through the Land of Snow andinto the Land of Sweets. Tickets are$27 for adults and $21 for seniorsand students. Visitwww.metropolitanarts.org.

DEC.3-5, DEC. 7-8“Snow Day.” 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 3, 4,

7, and 8; 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. onDec. 5 at The Lab Theatre atConvergence, 1819 N. Quaker Lane.Arts on the Horizon will present“Snow Day” about a young girl’s firstsnow. This play is nonverbal and willfeature live music. Tickets are $9.Visit www.artsonthehorizon.org.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY/DEC. 4-6Artfête. Various times at The Art

League’s Madison Annex, 305Madison St. The Art League hosts anannual art celebration and openhouse featuring exhibits, live music,artist demonstrations, andrefreshments, as well as a weekend-long ceramics and jewelry sale ofhandmade wares by Art League

students and associates. Free. Visitwww.theartleague.org.

Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend& Parade. Various times throughoutOld Town. In 1749, the City ofAlexandria was officially establishedby three Scottish merchants andnamed after its original founder,John Alexander, also of Scottishdescent. The weekend celebratesAlexandria’s heritage with a parade,a taste of Scotland event, holidaymarketplace and more. Visitwww.campagnacenter.org/scottishwalkweekend.

DEC. 4-19“A Christmas Carol.” 8 p.m.

Thursday-Friday, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.Saturday-Sunday. The Little Theatreof Alexandria performs the classicVictorian tale of Ebenezer Scroogewho travels with ghostly guidesthrough Christmas past, present andfuture to find the true meaning of theholidays. Tickets are $15. Visitwww.thelittletheatre.com.

DEC. 4-20Del Ray Artisans Holiday Market.

Various times at Del Ray Artisans,2704 Mount Vernon Ave. Del Ray’sannual Holiday Market offershandmade fine arts and crafts fromlocal artists (including pottery/ceramics, photography, jewelry, fiber,paper crafts and glass). Find differentartists each weekend. Free to attend.Visit www.thedelrayartisans.org/holidaymarket.

DEC. 4-23Alexandria’s Holiday Market.

Various Times at John Carlyle

Square, 300 John CarlyleSt. Visitors can enjoy liveentertainment, traditionalEuropean food andsweets, wine and beer,while shopping for artsand crafts. Free. Visitwww.alexandriaholidaymarket.com.

SATURDAY/DEC. 5Photos with Santa. 10

a.m.-2 p.m. at @homeReal Estate, 111 S. AlfredSt. Families are invitedfor photos with Santaand hot cocoa. Free. Visitwww.athomedcmetro.comfor more.

Book Sale and “NewLook” Open House.10 a.m.-4 p.m. at TheBarrett Branch of theAlexandria Library, 717Queen St. Hundreds ofgently used books, cds,and dvds will be availablefor purchase. All ages canmake a holiday card for a retiredveteran (supplies provided) andlisten to the G.W. Middle SchoolChoir. Free. Call 703-746-1713 formore.

A Soldiers’ Christmas at CarlyleHouse. 1-4 p.m. at Carlyle House,121 N. Fairfax St. The “Soldiers’Christmas” event will feature re-enactors from the First VirginiaRegiment, who will highlight coloniallife in Alexandria during the holidaysat the time of the AmericanRevolution. Free, $1 suggesteddonations. Visitwww.carlylehouse.org.

Ornament Decorating Workshop.1-4 p.m. at the AlexandriaArchaeology Museum, 105 N. UnionSt. Decorate and take home artifact-

Entertainment

‘True Colors:Like a Rainbow’

“True Colors ShiningThrough,” Elizabeth

Guerry Mead

In “True Colors: Like a Rainbow” DelRay Artisans interpret colors from therainbow. “True Colors” will be on dis-play in the Del Ray Artisans GalleryJan. 8-30. The opening reception willbe held on Friday, Jan. 8, 6-9 p.m. Ad-mission to both the exhibit andreception is free. Visit www.thedelrayartisans.org for more.

shaped ornaments. Free. Visitwww.torpedofactory.org.

Holiday Festival: “Take a Walk inthe Woods.” 4-9 p.m. at theTorpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N.Union St. More than 140 artists willkeep their studios open late forpatrons to shop. The AlexandriaChoral Society and the BraddockBrass Quintet will perform. SantaClaus will visit. Free. Visitwww.torpedofactory.org.

16th Annual Alexandria HolidayBoat Parade of Lights. 5:30 p.m.at Alexandria’s waterfront at the footof Cameron Street near the TorpedoFactory Art Center, 105 N. Union St.Dozens of illuminated boats cruisethe Potomac River at the historicwaterfront, led by Alexandria’s

fireboat The Vigilant andWashington, D.C.’s fireboat JohnGlenn. DC media personality TommyMcFly of 94.7 Fresh FM will be theparade announcer. At the marinabefore and after the parade, visit the“Holiday Festival: Take a Walk in theWoods” at the Torpedo Factory ArtCenter to find live music and holidayshopping at open studios. Free. Visitwww.visitalexandriava.com/holidays.

Holiday on the Avenue. 6 p.m. atDel Ray Farmers Market. Take astroll down Mount Vernon Avenueand see the “luminarias.” Free. Visitwww.visitdelray.com.

John Gorka. 7:30 p.m. at TheBirchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave.Folk musician John Gorka is touringin support of his 12th studio album


Tickets $7: www.fbcalexandria.org/lctor 703-684-3720

December 10–13, 2015

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF ALEXANDRIA2932 King Street

Advertising Deadlines are the previous Thursday unless noted.

DECEMBER12/2/2015.....................................................Wellbeing12/9/2015...Holiday Entertainment & Gift Guide II12/9/2015..HomeLifeStyle; Home for the Holidays12/16/2015..............A+ Camps & Schools; Holiday

Entertainment & Gifts Pages12/23/2015.....Special Issue – Safe for the Holidays12/30/2015............................Children’s ConnectionJANUARY1/6/2016...............Wellbeing, Renewal, Resolutions1/13/2016...........................................HomeLifeStyleMartin Luther King Jr. Day is Jan. 181/20/2016................................A+ Camps & Schools1/27/2016.....................................Community Guide1/27/2016.........................Winter Fun, Food, Arts &

Entertainment; Valentine’s PreviewE-mail [email protected] for more information.

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SPECIAL CONNECTIONS CALENDAR

Award-WinningAward-

Winning

“Bright Side of Down.” Tickets are$35, $10 for students. Visitwww.birchmere.com for more.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY/DEC. 5-6Christmas Tree Sale. 7 a.m.-5 p.m. at

2911 Cameron Mills Road. Find 4-13foot fresh-cut Fir trees. Trees priced$35-175. Cal 304-703-1350.

SUNDAY/DEC. 6Breakfast With Santa. 10:30 a.m.

and 1 p.m. at Hotel Monaco, 480King St. Breakfast with Santafeatures the Metropolitan School ofthe Arts, of Alexandria and Lorton,Frosty Follies show. Watch aBroadway-style revue, get pictureswith the cast, and eat brunch withSanta. Tickets are $45 for adults and$35 for ages 9 and younger. Visitwww.metropolitanarts.org.

Del Ray Studio and Sale Show. 12-6 p.m. at Studio of Del Ray Arts, 8East Howell Ave. Find carved/turnedwood creations, jewelry, pottery,fiberwork, paintings, and more. Free.Email [email protected] formore.

Lessons and Carols. 4:30 p.m. atVirginia Theological Seminary, 3737Seminary Road. The public is invitedto the annual Lessons and Carolswith the Awarding of the Dean’sCross for Servant Leadership inChurch and Society. Free. Visitwww.vts.edu/chapel.

MONDAY/DEC. 7Dance Class: The Art of Ballroom

Dance. 7-7:45 p.m. class and 7:45-8:30 p.m. dancing at TheAthenaeum, 201 Prince St. Ballroomdance professional Gary Stephansteaches the Fox Trot, Waltz, Tango,Swing, Salsa, Meringue, Rumba, Cha-Cha, and Samba. Tickets are $15.Contact [email protected].

TUESDAY/DEC. 8Handmade Holiday Card Making.

7-8:30 p.m. at Beatley CentralLibrary, 5005 Duke St. Learn card-making techniques. Free. Call 703-746-1754.

Bell’s Beer Dinner. 7-10 p.m. atUnion Street Public House, 121 S

Union St. Find a special menu pairedwith beer from Bell’s Brewery.Tickets are $65. Visitwww.unionstreetpublichouse.com.

FOURPLAY: Bob James, NathanEast, Chuck Loeb, and HarveyMason. 7:30 p.m. at The BirchmereMusic Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave.Bob James and Nathan East celebratethe release of “The New Cool” withband members. Tickets are $55. Visitwww.birchmere.com for more.

WEDNESDAY/DEC. 9Parent-Child Music Class. 10:30

a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Mount VernonPresbyterian Church, 2001 SherwoodHall Lane. Accelerando Music isoffering a free parent-child musicclass at the MOMS Club ofAlexandria South monthly meeting.MOMS Club of Alexandria Southserves at-home parents as well asparents who work part-time or havehome-based businesses and whoreside in zip codes 22303, 22306 and22307. Free. [email protected] orvisitsouthalexandriamomsclub.webs.com.

“A Christmas Carol.” 6:30 p.m.reception, 8 p.m. performance atLittle Theatre of Alexandria, 600Wolfe St. Attend a fundraisingperformance of “A Christmas Carol”complete with a visit from SantaClaus. Proceeds benefit Gadsby’sTavern Museum. Tickets are $25.Visit www.gadsbystavernmuseum.us.

“The Historical Impact of MilitaryChaplains in Shaping theEthical Climate.” 7:30 p.m. atChurch of St. Andrew and St.Margaret, 402 E. Monroe St. TheRev. John Weatherly will explore theroles of armed forces chaplainsbefore, during and after the CivilWar, including the foundation of theChaplain Corps. Free. Call 703-963-9616 for more.

THURSDAY/DEC. 10All That Glows. 7 p.m. at Woodlawn,

9000 Richmond Highway. TheWoodlawn Council invites the publicto a holiday open house with a“reimagined” 19th century menu.Tickets are $200. Visitwww.eventbrite.com/e/all-that-glows-tickets-19335619358.

THURSDAY/DEC. 10-13“A Stable Christmas.” Various times

at First Baptist Church Alexandria,2932 King St. Join the cast, chorus,and orchestra of First Baptist Churchof Alexandria’s 2015 production ofthe Living Christmas Tree, “A StableChristmas.” The production featurestraditional and contemporary holidaymusic, a 25-foot Christmas tree filledwith 110+ singers and 50,000+synchronized lights and the story ofJim and Dot, as they begin their livestogether. Tickets are $7 each plus a$1 service charge per transaction.Visit www.fbcalexandria.org.

SATURDAY/DEC. 12Breakfast with Santa. 8:30 a.m.-

10:30 a.m. at Mount Vernon HighSchool, 8515 Old Mount VernonRoad. Eat a pancake breakfast, makecrafts, and play games. $5 perperson, families of 5 or more pay aflat $25 family rate. Visitwww.facebook.com/MVHSClassof2019.

Brunch with Santa. 9-11:30 a.m. atThe Pub by Wegmans, 7905 HilltopVillage Center Drive. Families areinvited to a breakfast with a specialbrunch menu and a visit from Santa.Free to attend. Call 571-527-2465.

Civil War Christmas in Camp atFort Ward. 12-4 p.m. at Fort WardMuseum & Historic Site, 4301 W.Braddock Road. Visitors meet a CivilWar-era Santa at this holiday eventexploring how Christmas wasobserved during the Civil War. Theprogram features living-historyinterpreters, a Victorian Christmastree, refreshments, readings of TheNight Before Christmas and apatriotic Santa Claus inspired by aThomas Nast illustration for Harper’sWeekly newspaper. Suggesteddonation is $2 for adults, $1 forchildren. Call 703-746-4848 orwww.fortward.org.

Christmas Candlelight Service.5:45-8 p.m. at AlexandriaPresbyterian Church, 2405 RussellRoad. This service of lessons andcarols will feature APC choirs, brassquintet and carol singing. Receptionto follow. Free. Visitwww.alexandriapres.org for more.

Entertainment

Folk/rock band Carbon Leaf will celebrate the release of their new album “Love LossHope Repeat Reneaux,” a complete re-recording of a 2006 album titled “Love LossHope Repeat” on Dec. 17-18 at 7:30 p.m. at the Birchmere Music Hall, 2701 MountVernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com for more.

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SportsMount Vernon Gazette Sports Editor Jon Roetman

703-752-4031 or [email protected]

Sports BanquetPictured are the winners from West Potomac High School’s fall of 2015 sports banquet.

The West Potomac football program’sbest season since 2011 ended witha 42-9 loss at South County on Nov.

20 in the 6A North region quarterfinals.The No. 9 seed Wolverines ended a three-

year postseason victory drought with a 40-19 win over No. 8 West Springfield in the

opening round on Nov. 13, but WestPotomac became the latest team tofall short against top seed SouthCounty, which improved to 12-0.

The Wolverines, led by head coachJeremiah Ross, ended the season with an8-4 record, including 7-3 in the regular sea-son. West Potomac lost twice to SouthCounty, once to No. 2 seed Lake Braddock,and once against No. 8 seed West Spring-field.

On Friday, West Potomac sophomore run-ning back Daiimon Cleveland carried 22times for 125 yards against South County,

according to stats on maxpreps.com. Cleve-land, a second-team All-Conference 7 se-lection as an all-purpose offensive player,finished the season with 1,155 yards and20 touchdowns on the ground, and 12 re-ceptions for 132 yards and a score.

Cleveland, junior running back JustineAnnan (second team all-conference), jun-ior quarterback Mark Ellis (second team),and junior receivers Brandan Lisenby (sec-ond team) and Khalil Williams-Diggins (sec-ond team) should provide West Potomacwith some offensive weapons next season.

Annan rushed for 780 yards and 11 touch-downs this season. Ellis completed 51 per-cent of his passes for 2,242 yards and 22touchdowns, with seven interceptions.

West Potomac’s top skill-position loss willbe CJ Burch, a first-team all-conference se-lection at receiver.

While the Wolverines will return some

valuable skill position players, WestPotomac will need to replace four of fivestarting offensive lineman. The team willgraduate left tackle Jordan Burgess (firstteam all-conference), left guard John Leon(second team), right guard Ozzie Opoku(second team) and right tackle Tay Diggs.The team will also graduate tight end GrantMonson, a second-team selection.

On defense, West Potomac will loseMonson, a first-team end, Horace Johnson,a first-team linebacker, lineman Diggs (sec-ond team), linebackers Kreshawn Dikes(second team) and Antoine Grice (secondteam all-around), and defensive back OkrahOpoku (second team).

Annan and Ozzie Opoku recently partici-pated in a Q&A with The Gazette, discuss-ing West Potomac’s accomplishments thisseason and their plans for Thanksgiving.

Q: Your season ended last weekwith a 42-9 loss to South County inthe region quarterfinals. Whatmakes the Stallions such a strong

team?Annan: They come off the ball hard and

play aggressively. They don’t make verymany mistakes and they execute well.

Opoku: They have strong leadership, andstrong up front, and they go fast and ex-ecute on a high level.

Q: The region semifinals are SouthCounty/Robinson and LakeBraddock/Westfield. You faced twoof those teams this season. Whichteams do you think will win thisweekend?

Annan: Those are going to be some verygood games. Whoever wants it more willwin.

Opoku: South County, because of their in-terior, and I think Westfield is going to pullthis one.

Q: Which team do you think willwin the region?

Annan: I think the team that executes thebest and turns the ball over the least willwin the region.

Opoku: South County.

Q: West Potomac went 7-3 duringthe regular season and won aplayoff game. What are yourthoughts about what the teamaccomplished this season?

Annan: I’m very proud of myself and myteammates. It was no easy feat to accom-plish. Next year I hope we go even furtherand I think we earned the success we had.

Opoku: [We put] West Po back on themap, and showed the community West Pofootball is back and out coach is one of thebest in the region.

Q: Justine, the program will returnseveral talented players nextseason, including you, DaiimonCleveland and quarterback MarkEllis. How do you feel about WestPotomac football in 2016?

Annan: Our whole team is very talented.I have a lot of faith in my guys and theyhave a lot of faith in me as well. 2016 shouldbe a good year for us.

— Jon Roetman

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West Potomac seniorguard Ozzie Opoku,right, earned second-team All-Conference 7honors this season.

West Potomac juniorrunning back Justine

Annan earned second-team All-Conference 7

honors in 2015.

WP Football Suffers Playoff Loss to South CountyLineman Opoku, RB Annan discusssemifinals, other teams and next season.

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Q&A


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LEGAL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given to members of the NY, nonprofit, Ameri-can Society of Clinical Oncology, Inc., that eligible ASCO members may vote by proxy ballot from Nov. 3 to Dec. 3, 2015 to elect the President-Elect, four seats on the Board of Direc-tors, and three seats on the Nominating Committee for service beginning on June 6, 2016. Eligible ASCO membersmay also vote on a proposed ASCO Bylaws amendment by proxy ballot from Nov. 3 to Dec. 3, 2015. Information about proxy ballots is available at www.asco.org/election. Completed proxy ballots will be delivered to the ASCO President or her designee for casting at a meeting to be held on Dec. 8, 2015, 9:30 AM – 10:00 AM at ASCO Headquarters, 2318 Mill Road,Suite 800, Alexandria, VA 22314. Members with questions can email [email protected] or call 571-483-1316.

21 Announcements 21 Announcements

OBITUARY

Margaret A. Lawler (Nov 20, 1913-Nov 19, 2015) passed away peacefully in her sleep. She was a lifetime resident of the City of Alexandria and the only child of Nicholas (an Alexandria City Council member) and Annie Lawler. She grew up in the historic French-Lawler House at 517 S. Wash. St., which she eventually inherited from her parents. Margaret attended Trinity College in Washington, DC, where she studied foreign languages and history, receiving a Master of Arts de-gree in 1937. She worked for the Federal gov’t her entire ca-reer. She cared for her parents, her dear friends, her church, and her cats. She travelled a good deal. Everyone who met Margaret felt like they were her best friend. She lived a prayer-ful life and she was very charitable, both in word and in deed. A funeral mass will be held at noon on Sat. Nov. 21 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. A private burial will take place at a lat-er time at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Alexandria, VA.


OBITUARYAlma Deane MacConomy, 96, retired editor and head of book publishing at the National Wildlife Federation, died November 13, 2015 in Alexandria, VA. She taught one-room country schools in Kansas from age 16 to 19, then worked her way through Kansas State University and earned a degree in journalism.

Mrs. MacConomy came to Washington in 1944 as a reporter covering the Senate for Congressional Intelligence. Later she held public relations posts with the American National Red Cross, American Forest Products Industries, and the Campfire Girls.

As a free lance writer following her marriage to Edward N. MacConomy in 1957, she launched the Merry Go Round, a weekly children’s calendar of events, now known as the Capital Carousel, for The Washington Post in 1966 and published a children’s book, Odd Jobs in Lumbering, in 1967.

In 1970 she helped the National Wildlife Federation create the Conservation Summit, a popular nature vacation for families.

As a young woman, she was an active member of the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church in Washington, setting aside her professional career for four years to be housekeeper for the manse for Dr. Peter and Catherine Marshall during the lat-ter’s long illness. As well as research assistant to Catherine Marshall for her books Catherine Marshall’s Story Bible andthe novel Christy. Since 1979 she has been a member of Grace Episcopal Church in Alexandria where she served on the vestry and as chairperson of Outreach and Ordination Committees.

She is predeceased by her husband. She is survived by their son, Scott and his wife Kelly of Alexandria, granddaughter, Kiera Thompson of Boston, MA, and a grandson, Cameron of Los Angeles, CA.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 29th from 5-8 pm at Everly Wheatley Funeral Home, 1500 W. Braddock Rd., Alexandria, VA 22302. A service will be held on Monday, November 30th at Grace Episcopal Church, 3601 Russell Rd., Alexandria, VA. Interment will immediately follow at IvyHill Cemetery. Online tributes can be made at www.everly-wheatley.com. Donations may be made in honor of Alma Deane to the Campagna Center in Alexandria, VA.



Public Notice Availability of a Supplemental Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Draft Finding of No Significant Impact (FNSI) for the Fort Belvoir Residential

Communities, Fort Belvoir, VirginiaThe U.S. Army has prepared a SEA that evaluates the

construction of new family housing and related amenities with a proposed 102 housing units including recreation areas and related facilities on approximately 53.5 acres known as the

Woodlawn East/Berman Tract at Fort Belvoir. The proposedresidential community is located on North Post east of Wood-lawn Village of Fort Belvoir. Implementation of the proposed action is not expected to result in significant environmental impacts; therefore, preparation of an environmental impact statement is not required in accordance with the National

Environmental Policy Act. Copies of the EA and draft FNSI areavailable for review and comment at the following libraries: Fort

Belvoir Van Noy Library, Lorton Branch, Sherwood Regional Branch, and Kingstowne Branch. The documents are also

available at:http://www.belvoir.army.mil/environdocssection2_ArmyRCI.asp. Comments on the EA and draft FNSI should be submitted to

Mr. Felix M. Mariani, Fort Belvoir DPW Environmental and Nat-ural Resources Division, Building 1442, 9430 Jackson Loop,

Fort Belvoir, VA 22060, [email protected].

Comments must be received no later than 30 days after publication of this Notice of Availability.


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ABC LICENSEBraddock Place Deli, LLC trading as Sophias Cafe, 1320 Braddock Pl, Alexandria, VA 22314. The above establish-ment is applying to the VIR-GINIA DEPARTMENT OF AL-COHOLIC BEVERAGE CON-TROL (ABC) for a Wine and Beer On and Off Premises li-cense to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. Usama Misleh, MemberNOTE: Objections to the issu-ance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Ob-jections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200.

21 Announcements

ABC LICENSEEMS Food Group, LLC trading as Chickpea and Olive, 529 E.

Howell Ave. Alexandria, VA 22301. The above establish-

ment is applying to the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) for a Wine

and Beer on Premises license to sell or manufacture alcohol-

ic beverages. Erik Dorn Member/Manager

NOTE: Objections to the issu-ance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Ob-jections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200.

21 Announcements

ABC LICENSEWalkers Grille, LLC trading as Walkers Grille, 6909 Metro Park Dr. Alexandria, VA 22310. The above establish-ment is applying to the VIR-GINIA DEPARTMENT OF AL-COHOLIC BEVERAGE CON-TROL (ABC) for a Wine and Beer on and off premises li-cense to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. Usama Misleh, MemberNOTE: Objections to the issu-ance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Ob-jections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200.

LEGAL NOTICEPursuant to the provision of section 4-1-16 of the code of

the City of Alexandria, the Alexandria Police Department located at 3600 Wheeler Ave-nue, Alexandria, VA 22304 is

now in possession of un-claimed bicycles, mopeds, lawn equipment, money,

scooters, and other items. All persons having valid claim to

the property should file a claim to the property with reasona-ble proof of ownership or the items will be sold, destroyed, converted or donated. For a

complete listing go to http://alexandriava.gov/police/and contact the Police Proper-ty Section at (703) 746-6709.

21 Announcements

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