Wednesday, July 31
“Chemo-Nosabe”
Although I’ve not seen the current “The Lone Ranger” theatrical release, I am of a certain age and generation who grew up watching – on black and white television with no remote control and only three watchable channels – the original “The Lone Ranger” (starring Clayton Moore and Jay Silverheels), along with other weekday-afternoon and Saturday-morning classics like “The Rifleman,” “Roy Rogers,” “Sky King,” “Superman,” “Leave It To Beaver” and “Ozzie and Harriet” – in my house, anyway. And though the “effects” weren’t nearly as “special” as they are in today’s movie/television productions/versions, nevertheless, the effects on me, personally, were far greater. Can you say wholesome goodness? The Golden Rule? Do unto others…
‘Regionality’ of Transportation Projects Questioned
Transportation Authority approves FY2014 Project List.
“Tonight we acted to address one of the greatest threats to our region: Congestion.” So spoke Marty Nohe, chairman of the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) and Coles District supervisor for Prince William County. Despite numerous calls to slow down the process by speakers at the public hearing before the Authority, on Wednesday, July 24, the NVTA approved the FY2014 proposed regional multimodal project list as presented and vetted by the NVTA’s Project Implementation Working Group (PIWG) headed by Authority member (and Arlington County Board Member) Christopher Zimmerman.
A Delicate Balance – At Home
How appropriate is it to tell a cancer patient something negative (that he likely doesn’t want to hear) – yet needs to know, and which might ultimately quash his fighting spirit and adversely affect his day – and night? Moreover, would withholding certain discouraging observations intermittently along the cancer-treatment way, in order for said patient to feel good and positive about himself – and better prepare him for any and all news/results which might upset his precariously imperfect life and moreover, likely chip away at his emotional wherewithal as well – cause more harm than 100-percent honesty all the time?
For the Love of Animals
From taking orders in a pizza shop to finding homes for thousands of animals, the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation has a great "tail" to tell.
In 2001, there were too many dogs without homes and too few people to help them.
Tuesday, July 30
Classified Advertising July 31, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Roessler Named County Police Chief
New police chief vows focus on diversity.
Edwin C. Roessler, named Fairfax County's police chief at Tuesday's Board of Supervisor's meeting, promised to launch a Diversity Council in an effort to recruit, promote and respond to Fairfax County's increasingly diverse community.
Monday, July 29
Fairfax County Animal Shelter Temporarily Suspends Intake of Dogs
Canine influenza suspected culprit after dozen dogs become ill.
The Fairfax County Animal Shelter has temporarily suspended its intake of dogs, after one dog died of pneumonia and about a dozen more dogs have exhibited symptoms of an unspecified upper respiratory illness.
Thursday, July 25
Puppets for Puppies
LTA musical to benefit local animal charities.
With an abundant use of profanity and episodes of "full puppet nudity," the Tony Award-winning musical “Avenue Q” is not the usual fare from The Little Theatre of Alexandria. But when the storied theater company debuts the Sesame Street-style show July 27, each performance will serve as a fundraiser for several local animal charities.
T.C. Alumni Celebrate 40 Years
TC’s Class of 1973 gathers this weekend.
This week marks the 40th year reunion of T.C. William’s class of 1973. Coming right out of the tumultuous ‘60s, the class of 1973 was part of T.C. Williams during some of its most transformative years. With both national and local changes taking place, the students had a high school experience that involved more than classes.
Wasteful Spending: Alexandria Faces Difficult Decision on Raw Sewage
Cleaning out of Hunting Creek could cost $100 million to $300 million.
Every year, Alexandria dumps 10 million gallons of raw sewage into Hunting Creek.
On the Campaign Trail
Year after year, members of the General Assembly consider efforts to restore voting rights to nonviolent felons. But year after year, the effort is killed — usually by House Republicans.
Silence of the Court: Virginia Supreme Court Denies Access to Audio Recordings
Lack of transparency is explained as effort to shield personal conversations.
The Virginia Supreme Court operates in silence, denying public access to audio recordings of its oral arguments.
Wednesday, July 24
Classified Advertising July 24, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Feeling Pretty Good
T.C. Williams grads hit the road for first tour out of the D.C. area.
A shared appreciation for the blues has morphed into an increasingly successful reggae band with enough popularity to literally take their show on the road. FeelFree, a group of five 20-something men from Alexandria, mostly T.C. Williams graduates, last week kicked off their first East Coast tour, which will take them from this area up to New York City and down to North Carolina, with a stop in Charlottesville along the way.
Letter: Let’s Be Open-Minded
To the Editor: It is disappointing and concerning to see some residents of this City, much less our Parks and Recreation Commission (“PRC”), so quickly leap to criticize the sports complex proposed by the St. James Group (“SJG”).
‘Friendly Visitors’
Senior Services of Alexandria
The Hermitage Assisted Living Facility in Alexandria is home for many of Alexandria’s seniors. On July 2, one of its residents celebrated a birthday with lively music, festive foods and of course a special birthday cake. Mrs. Lillian Parker, a long-time resident of the Hermitage, celebrated her special day with her family, including two of her daughters and granddaughter, a room full of friends and special guests.
Alexandria Bulletin
Open Retreat. 8-10:30 a.m. at the Alexandria Police Headquarters, 3600 Wheeler Ave. The Alexandria Planning Commission offers a retreat to discuss procedural matters, goals and policies and upcoming projects. Open for the public to attend. Call 703-746-4666.
Living with a K-9 Hero
Ken and Gail Gardner of Alexandria were the lucky couple who adopted a 12-year-old German Shepherd through the Baghdad Pups Program of SPCA International.
Black History Museum Hosts Author and Exhibition
The Alexandria Black History Museum hosted two events on Saturday, July 20. In the morning, patrons joined artist, writer and educator Sushmita Mazumdar and Nina Tisara, director of Living Legends of Alexandria, for chai tea and a book writing workshop. The workshop is one of a series of programs sponsored by Family Legends, an activity of Living Legends of Alexandria.
Alexandria School Notes
The following students graduated from James Madison University
Letter to the Editor: Best Use of Hensley Park?
If you care about kids in Alexandra, listen up. The City Council is about to issue a request for proposals (RFP) to a private developer to lease for 40 years 14 acres of Alexandria playing fields at Hensley Park on Eisenhower Avenue. Developers would build an elite sports club there that, according to their own model, could cost the typical Alexandria family of four $4,900 to join and $4,200 a year thereafter just to belong.
Joining Together To Save Animals
There are dozens of animal welfare organizations across the country working to secure "forever homes" for dogs and cats of all ages. And while there's a general camaraderie amongst them, stemming from their common cause, what's a little friendly competition among peers? For the past few years, the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) has sponsored a nationwide contest to challenge shelters to see how many more animals they could adopt between June and August beyond the total the year before.
Commentary: Consider Fair Trade Shopping
When we go shopping for tea, chocolate, clothes, or even sports equipment, most of us never pause to consider the conditions under which those products were made.
Brief: Summer Can Be Deadly for Children
The City of Alexandria Department of Community and Human Services reminds parents and caregivers that hot vehicles can be deadly to children.
Neighborhood
Taylor Run
The Taylor Run Citizens' Association will be hosting its 2013 National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 6, from 6 - 8 p.m. at Angel Park (West Taylor Run Parkway). This year, TRCA will be hosting a kickball game and pizza party for friends and neighbors. Pizza, popsicles, cold drinks and other refreshments will be served.
Correction: Alexandria
In the letter “Street Repairs Needed Repair” [Gazette Packet, July 18], recent roadway repairs in the 200 block of North Fairfax Street were attributed to the City of Alexandria. According to Virginia American Water, the work was done by its maintenance crews, not the city’s. In fixing a main, temporary repairs are done so that the roadway can be open for traffic more quickly. After a week or two, to ensure no additional settlement or leaks, a professional paving crew makes a permanent repair to the road.
Tuesday, July 23
For First Time in Recent Memory, No Competition Open Commonwealth's Attorney Seat
No Democrat challenges Bryan Porter in primary; no Republican steps forward for general.
Back in 1979, the competition to become Alexandria's next commonwealth's attorney was fierce.
Monday, July 22
Lost Dog: Helping Save Lives, One Pet at a Time
Area residents explain their dedication to the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation.
Behind every adoption successfully completed by the Arlington-based Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation, there's a volunteer with a happy heart.
Friday, July 19
Alexandria Real Estate: May 2013 Top Sales
In May 2013, 278 Alexandria homes sold between $1,753,491-$85,500.
Alexandria Real Estate: May 2013 Top Sales
Thursday, July 18
Alexandria Home Sales: June, 2013
In June 2013, 277 Alexandria homes sold between $4,000,000-$102,500.
Alexandria Home Sales: June, 2013
Piece of Cake
It was a party 264 years in the making as Alexandria celebrated its birthday July 13 with a day of fun and entertainment that culminated with a fireworks display over the Potomac River accompanied by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra's playing of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture.
Elizabeth Kruse Leads WIHS Junior Committee as Youth Ambassador
The Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), one of the world’s most prestigious equestrian events, has chosen Elizabeth Kruse of McLean as youth ambassador of the 2013 show.
Bench Warmers
Local judge spearheads Substitute Judges Institute.
Attorneys from across Northern Virginia gathered July 9 at Manassas Regional Airport to participate in the Institute for Substitute Judges, a seminar designed by Alexandria General District Court Chief Judge Becky Moore to provide intensive training to better prepare attorneys to serve on the bench.
Alexandria Bulletin
Joint Meeting of Park and Recreation Commission & Youth Sports Advisory Board 7 p.m. Located at City Hall, Council Work Room, 301 King St. The unsolicited proposal the City received to build a private sports and entertainment complex on the current site of Hensley Park will be discussed. Contact William Chesley, william.chesley@alexandriava.gov, 703-746-5426.
Alexandria Calendar
Summer Classes. Art at the Center, 2804 Sherwood Hall Lane. Children ages 6-10 can participate. Register at www.artatthecenter.org or 703-201-1250.
To the Editor: Police Oversight Board: When?
The Virginia Citizens Coalition for Police Accountability, Inc. is a statewide pro-police citizens advocacy group with its primary goal being to make Virginia a better and safer place for all its citizens. In Fairfax County, the CCPA has proposed that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors appoint a Citizen Complaint Oversight Board to investigate citizen allegations of police abuse, misconduct, negligence and civil rights violations and report its findings and recommendations to the Chief of Police.
Brief: Apply to Police Citizens Academy
The 10-week Alexandria Police Citizens Academy provides an opportunity for residents to learn about various aspects of the Police Department, such as administrative philosophy, internal policies and the guiding principles of law and ethical conduct governing the delivery of police services. Classes are a combination of lecture and interactive activities. Class topics will include patrol operations, gangs, crime prevention, crime scene investigations, criminal investigations and the Special Operations Team.
Neighborhoods
Our neighbor Irina Woodruff tells me that 40,000 happy people are now celebrating a song and dance festival in Riga, the capital of Latvia, her native land.
Long Wed Couples Vow ‘I’d Do It Again’
Four married couples, all residents of The Fountains at Washington House, 5100 Fillmore Ave., recently renewed their marriage vows in a ceremony at the community’s chapel. Friends, families, and neighbors all looked on July 10 as the couples said “I’d do it all over again.”
Student Wins DAR Art Award
Lucy Medley, a student at T.C.Williams High School, won first place in the Daughters of the American Revolution Junior American Citizen National Art Competition. She is the daughter of Lisa and Howell Medley.
Natalie Barrow
Attending Naval Academy Seminar
Natalia Barrow, student at Bishop Ireton High School was one of 2,550 rising seniors invited to Naval Academy Summer Seminar program this year.
Alexandria School Notes
Three T.C. Williams students competed at the Virginia Junior Academy of Sciences Symposium in Blacksburg.
Opinion: Street Repairs Needed Repair
To the Editor: Last week a construction team repaired an underground problem in the 200 block of North Fairfax Street and left the site in so bad a condition that trucks and buses bounced all over the lumpy asphalt creating an unbearable traffic situation and magnifying the noise level we deal with daily as this precious Old Town commercializes exponentially.
To the Editor:Not To Be Missed
Capt. Michelle Rakers returns July 20 to Alexandria's Schlesinger Center, conducting the Marine Chamber Orchestra in a not-to-be-missed 7:30 p.m. free performance.
To the Editor:Protect Public Parks
Oronoco Bay Park this past Saturday night was the best. Despite a torrential downpour an hour before the symphony began, thousands of people of all ages, races, income levels, beliefs, speaking numerous languages, and dressed for a hot summer night came with picnic baskets on different modes of travel — to sit on the ground to have a good time. Proof they did?
Alexandria Military Notes
Navy Ensign Jeffrey C. Christopher graduated from the United States Naval Academy and was commissioned to his current rank.
Noted in Congressional Record
Saluting city’s African American History Makers.
On July 10, U.S. Rep. James P. Moran congratulated the 64 African American History Makers at the dedication of the “Charles Houston Mural and Hall of Fame” in Alexandria Virginia on June 22.
To the Editor: Bravo
For the last 25 years, Alexandria has enjoyed the beautiful music of the Alexandria Symphony, under the leadership of our highly acclaimed Maestro Kim Allen Kluge.
Bishop Ireton Appoints Crooker
Stephen Crooker has been appointed to the newly created position of director of instruction at Bishop Ireton High School.
Opinion: Protect River Basin
To the Editor: No one disagrees that clean water — and a healthy Potomac — are fundamentally important. The Potomac River Basin supplies more than 85 percent of the D.C. Metropolitan Area’s drinking water. Moreover, it sustains communities supported by fishing and tourism, and allows generations of Virginians to enjoy recreational opportunities, like kayaking alongside the monuments and visiting the Great Falls.
To the Editor: Who Pays?
I read that Terry McAuliffe, Democrat candidate for governor, thought that if the federal government paid 100 percent in the first three years and then 90 percent for some time thereafter of the Medicaid bill to insure an additional 400,000 Virginians, we wouldn’t have to worry about the expense
Editorial: Share Wisdom With Newcomers and Others
The Connection's Newcomers and Community Guide publishes in late August.
Our Insider's Edition Newcomers and Community Guides, will publish the last week of August. What tips do you have for someone getting to know your community? We're hoping to share the places, activities, events, organizations and volunteer opportunities your neighbors might not know about. What great places and activities do you want your new neighbors to know about? Events that should not be missed? Organizations that do a great job? Places to volunteer? Tips for navigating your PTA or your school’s front office? We'd love to have your photos to go along with your suggestions.
New Book Chronicles African-American History in Alexandria
Story is told through narrative of 63 biographical sketches.
Alexandria currently has its first black mayor, its first black city manager, its first black city attorney, its first black Circuit Court judge and its first black police chief — not to mention the first black president in the White House. But the strains of race relations continue to haunt the city.
On the Campaign Trail
Back in 1979, the competition to become Alexandria's next commonwealth's attorney was fierce.
Developer Wants to Lease Public Land for Private Gain
Should Alexandria approve a 40-year lease for Hensley Park?
Should a stretch of public land in the Eisenhower Valley be transformed into a private sports complex?
Wednesday, July 17
Q and A: T.C. Williams Grad Moss Headed to Coastal Carolina
After two seasons of high school football, Moss earned a full scholarship.
Bulletin Board
Meeting. 12:15 p.m. at La Cote d’Or, 6876 Lee Highway. The Arlington Rotary Club welcomes David DeCamp to discuss the Columbia Pike Streetcar. Visit www.arlingtonrotaryclub.org.
Creating Fresh, Healthy Summer Treats
Local chefs offer recipes for refreshing, healthy snacks to keep kids satisfied during vacation.
Enticing children to forgo strawberry-flavored candy and choose fresh fruit in its natural form can be challenging. After all, lemonade, popsicles and cookies with milk are considered summertime classics.
Classified Advertising July 17, 2013
Read the lastest ads here!
Thursday, July 11
TC Grad Boyle To Play Field Hockey at Towson
Boyle was a four-year all-district goalkeeper for the T.C. Williams field hockey team.
Alexandria Aces Looking for First Winning Season
Alexandria improves to 14-8 with shutout of Southern Maryland
First-year manager DeSilva, Aces changed recruiting approach.
Alexandria School Notes
Eric Costantino has been accepted as a violist into the Credo Chamber Festival, to be held at Oberlin Conservatory this summer.
Exchange of Independence
Sister city high school exchange focuses on culture, national independence days
The U.S. and France have deep historic connections. The French provided assistance during the American War of Independence, and the Americans played a vital role in the liberation of occupied France during WWII. In an effort to deepen ties of friendship, Alexandria and her French sister city Caen have restarted a month-long high school exchange program with a focus on cultural understanding.
Alexandria Bulletin
English as a Second Language class. Charles E. Beatley, Jr. Central Library, 5005 Duke Street, 22304. All levels workshop July 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, and 30 from 10 a.m.-noon. Intermediate workshop July 16, 23, and 30 from 3-5 p.m. All classes free. Call the Information Desk, 703-746-1702 ext. 3.
Four Local Charities Honored
The Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington recently announced the charities selected to be featured in the 2013-14 Catalogue.
Events Calendar
Alexandria Calendar
City To Host National Road Racing Championships
12 km course to include Del Ray, Old Town.
Elite runners from around the world will take to the streets of Alexandria Nov. 17 when the city hosts the .US National Road Racing Championships, a 12-kilometer race that will serve as the finale to the USA Running Circuit series.
Editorial: More Than Disclosure Needed for Virginia
Time for limits on campaign contributions as well.
At least until after November’s election, most candidates in Virginia seem to think that there should be some reform to Virginia’s campaign finance and disclosure rules. At least it seems likely that most will support expanding disclosure rules to require disclosure of gifts to immediate family members as well as candidates/officials.
Letter to the Editor: Taxes and Fees Keep Rising
Last Saturday as I was leaving the parking lot under City Hall, I noticed a sign outlining the new parking fee structure for that lot. Over the years I have recommended to a number of potential “Old Town” visitors that this lot was the most economical and convenient parking venue in “Old Town.” Well, that’s changed. The hourly parking rate has increased from $2 to $2.50, and the maximum rate for hourly parkers entering after 5 p.m. increased from $2 to $4. In addition, the employee monthly parking rate increased from $25 to $30 at the Pitt-Oronoco surface lot and $75 to $90 at all other city parking facilities.
To the Editor: Unjustified Comparison
There is a strong temptation to suspect that today’s NSA leaker Edward Snowden and yesteryear’s Alexandria Gazette editor Edgar Snowden, who took his paper underground rather than cooperate with the U.S. military’s occupation, might be blood relations. If so, notwithstanding the Constitution’s idealistic prohibition of “corruption of blood,” disloyalty to the United States might be hereditary.
Neighborhoods
Taylor Run
The League of Women Voters of Alexandria held its annual meeting at the home of Pat Sullivan on Walnut Street. The group decided to change the style of future annual meetings to be headed by a management committee rather than by the usual setup of elected officers. Olga Hernandez, from the State LWV Board, came to the meeting to explain the use of this management committee.
Rosemont Celebrates 4th of July
More than 50 years ago, Rosemont resident Owen Malone together with then president of the Rosemont Citizens Association and now retired Judge Daniel O’Flaherty began the tradition of a celebration of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness with a festival for the entire neighborhood with a pet show followed by a bike parade, a baby beauty judging contest, lunch from the grill, sack races, three-legged races, the egg spoon races and more.
Church Awards Grants to Five Nonprofits
Westminster Presbyterian Church, a North Ridge landmark church founded in 1940 with a commitment to local mission work, awarded $23,037 in new grants to five Alexandria charitable organizations.
To the Editor: Memories from Landmark Mall
I enjoyed reading Michael Lee Pope’s article on the situation at Landmark Mall (“Winds of Change at Landmark, Once Thriving Mall Braces for Development,” Alexandria Gazette Packet, June 27). It was good that he provided some historical background on the grand opening of Landmark in 1965 and its heyday as an outdoor mall in the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s.
Letter: Taxes and Fees Keep Rising
To the Editor: Last Saturday as I was leaving the parking lot under City Hall, I noticed a sign outlining the new parking fee structure for that lot.
Letter: Challenging Bicyclists
To the Editor: The Alexandria City Council recently adopted a new bicycle ordinance allowing bicycles on the sidewalks.
Letter: Citizen’s Review Board Needed
To the Editor: Regarding your report on Commonwealth Attorney Randy Sengel's findings into the shooting of Taft Sellers [Alexandria Gazette Packet, July 4]: It seems to be straightforward enough, but it causes me to question whether one local law enforcement official (the commonwealth attorney) should be investigating the fatal shooting of a citizen by other local law enforcement officials (Alexandria police officers).
Alexandria People Notes
Email announcements to gazette@connectionnewspapers.com. Deadline is Thursday at noon. Photos welcome.
Letter to the Editor: A Reputation For Safety
To the Editor: In Michael Pope's recent article, “Bike to the Future,” there was a comment about "younger and less confident bicyclists, who wanted to avoid getting run over by a DASH bus."
On the Campaign Trail
Former Democratic National Committee Chairman Terry McAuliffe is not the standard candidate for higher office.
Week in Alexandria
What happens when you mix raw emotions and firearms? Sometimes people get injured.
Wednesday, July 10
Alexandria Leaders Consider Lawsuit Challenging Takeover of Long-Troubled School
Unless courts intervene, new statewide division will take control of Jefferson-Houston next year.
Is Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell's effort to take over Jefferson-Houston School constitutional?
Tuesday, July 9
Building Classic Jewelry Wardrobe
Local style experts suggest investing in classic pieces.
From monogrammed pendants to leather wrap bracelets, a dizzying array of jewelry is on the market.
Petersen to Governor: Explain, Deny, Return or Resign
Petersen first Virginia legislator to suggest McDonnell resign over alleged wrongdoing in accepting gifts from prominent donor.
The tipping point for state Sen. J. Chap Petersen (D-34) was the $6,500 Rolex watch.
Monday, July 8
Terry McAulife Launches Healthcare Platform at Inova Alexandria Hospital
Affordable Care Act is a key point of distinction between candidates for governor.
Democratic candidate for governor Terry McAuliffe found himself in the emergency room this week, but it wasn't because of a medical crisis.
Thursday, July 4
Classified Advertising July 3, 2013
Read the latest ads here!
Civil Disobedience and Holiday Ordinance in Alexandria
Fireworks are illegal, but violating this particular ordinance has a long tradition.
Newsflash: Consumer fireworks are illegal in Alexandria. According to the city's fire-prevention code, use of fireworks is a class one misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail or a $2,500 fine.
Hybrid Outrage at the Department of Motor Vehicles
Two legislators vow to introduce effort to repeal new tax on hybrid vehicles.
Suzanne Cleary has owned a hybrid vehicle since 2006, making her an early adopter and a proselytizer to her friends and neighbors.
Wednesday, July 3
Alexandria School Notes
Alexandria School Notes
Students Design Greenovation Lab
James K. Polk’s Greenovation Lab, which reopened on June 13, showcases the school’s sustainable energy heating and cooling systems and explains to children how they work. Children across the school district will be able to tour the Greenovation Lab to learn such concepts as how to use ground air — which remains at a constant temperature of 56 degrees — to heat and cool classrooms, or how to harness solar power to heat water.
Out & About
Summer Bounty at the Farmer’s Market
Plump tomatoes, sweet corn, beets, cucumbers, spring onions overflow the tables at the Three Way Farm’s produce stall in the Del Ray Farmer’s Market. The market also features fresh cut flowers, herbs and flowers to plant, Amish cheeses, gourmet pickles, eggs, fresh baked good, organic meats, Hattie’s Pralines, Beth MacKenzie’s Fluffed Up Desserts and much more. The market is open weekly on Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon in the parking lot at Mount Vernon Avenue & Oxford in Del Ray. Additional Farmers Markets are located at Market Square in Old Town on Saturday and Sunday markets at 4109 Mount Vernon Avenue in Arlandria and the West End Farmers Market in the Ben Brenman Park.
Traveling Back in Time
Event at Fort Ward showcases life of soldiers during Civil War.
On Saturday, June 8, the Fort Ward Park Museum held its Civil War Fort Day, which involved what life was like for soldiers during the War at what was then a Union Army installation.
ACVA Bids Farewell to Merrie Morris
ACVA, business community bid farewell to Merrie Morris.
The Alexandria business community turned out in force at the Athenaeum June 20 to bid farewell to Merrie Morris, the longtime director of membership and public affairs for the Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association.
Tiny Dancers Present Spring Recital
Before a packed auditorium at Bishop Ireton High School on June 2, several hundred young dancers from Tiny Dancers' Alexandria studio entertained family and friends in the annual Spring Recital.
Creative Flourish at Youth Arts Festival
Art displays filled the gym and overflowed down the sidewalk at George Washington Middle School for the annual Youth Arts Festival on Saturday, June 8.
He Preserved 200-Year-Old Legacy of Citizen Activism
Thomas Y. “Jay” Johnson, Jr. fought for volunteer firefighters.
Thomas Y. “Jay” Young Johnson Jr. hails from a long line of proud volunteer firefighters. His father and uncles were volunteer firefighters in Alexandria, where Jay was born, raised and educated. His early memories include doing his homework at the fire station. Now, 35 years after his father’s generation, he reflects on a distinguished history as president of the Alexandria Volunteer Fire Department. In addition to his family, a major influence in Johnson’s life was Mrs. Rigby, a teacher at T.C. Williams High School who arranged a part-time job for him at the Department of the Navy. He worked this job after school and in the summers, and parlayed it into a life-long career. He is now at the Pentagon as the deputy director of the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs, Human Resources and Enterprise Support.
Alexandria Calendar of Events
Summer Classes. Art at the Center, 2804 Sherwood Hall Lane. Children ages 6-10 can participate. Register at www.artatthecenter.org or 703-201-1250.
Letter to the Editor: Wake Up City Leaders
I own a business in Old Town. We are an advertising agency. We make TV commercials — the kind you like to hate, political. There are some 30 ad agencies in the cty like mine. But we have a problem that is not being addressed. The Internet in our town is too damn slow. (I am intentionally swearing for emphasis!) How did I discover this?
EagleBank Lands in Old Town
Newest branch opens at 277 S. Washington St.
More than 175 people from the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce and local business community joined EagleBank in celebrating the official opening of its latest branch with a ribbon cutting ceremony and reception on June 19 at the bank's facility in Old Town. “It's great to be back in Alexandria,” said EagleBank vice president and branch manager Ed Velarde, who returns to the area following 15 years of commercial banking experience with J.P. Morgan in New York.
Moss Named Rising Star
Jeremy R. Moss, an associate with MercerTrigiani law firm, has been named a 2013 Rising Star by both Virginia Super Lawyers and Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers. Moss was previously honored as a 2010 and 2012 Virginia Super Lawyers Rising Star, however, this is his first-time recognition by Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers
Giving Circle Sponsors Car Seat Workshop
The Giving Circle of Alexandria sponsored a car seat workshop on June 8 for families that participate in playgroups for low-income families. These playgroups enables The Giving Circle to reach children who otherwise might not receive any preparation for kindergarten.
Gerald Mann Becomes Director of Middle Schools
Gerald Mann has been appointed the new director of middle schools. He will begin his new job on July 1. Mann formerly served as principal of George Washington 1 Middle School. Previously he served as an assistant principal at George Washington, where he led the Special Education, English Language Learner and Middle Alternative Program for Students departments, and worked with department chairs to provide instructional support and develop strategies to implement school-wide initiatives.
Alexandria Bulletin
Tech Zoo Tuesdays. 3-5 p.m. at Charles E. Beatley, Jr. Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Learn about the latest electronic reading devices or bring equipment for hands-on help. Call 703-746-1702.
And All That Jazz
Fostering the Future cruise benefits Fund for Alexandria's Child.
More than 225 people donned their finest Great Gatsby attire aboard the Cherry Blossom riverboat for the 10th anniversary of the Fostering the Future cruise June 27 to benefit the Fund for Alexandria's Child.
Alexandria Business Notes
Diane L. Webster was promoted to vice president, branch manager of the Prince Street branch of Virginia Commerce Bank.
Opinion: Clinical Trial Puts Inova Alexandria at PAE Forefront
A clinical trial at Inova Alexandria Hospital is showing positive results for men who seek a non-surgical option for relief from symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Ours is the first trial in the U.S. to test a procedure called Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) and is attracting patients from across the country and abroad.
Local Safeway Prepares for Rennovation
Safeway will close its Bradlee Safeway at 3526 King St. on Saturday, July 13 at 6 p.m. as the grocer will construct a new facility at the same location.
Tuesday, July 2
Prosecutor's Report Clears Officers of Criminal Wrongdoing in February Shooting
Unlike Fairfax and Arlington authorities, Alexandria prosecutor shares report with public.
Seven different officers shot 37 rounds at Alexandria man Taft Sellers last February during a standoff in the city's West End, hitting him five times.
Monday, July 1
Editorial: HOT-Lanes and No Metro for I-66?
Did you miss the public discussion and input? So did we.
One day when I was stuck in traffic on I-66, I was briefly entertained by the license plate of the vehicle in front of me. "66 SUCKS," it read. No question, commuting on I-66 is a bear.