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Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ April 5-11, 2018 ❖ 1www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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Gazette PacketServing Alexandria for over 200 years • A Connection Newspaper

Alexandria

April 5, 2018

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See Arts District, Page 5

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By Jeanne Theismann

Gazette Packet

Alexandria Sheriff’s Office Master DeputyNorman Thompson was honored as the2017 Law Enforcement Officer of theYear March 14 by the American Legion

Post 24 in Old Town. A 15-year veteran of the ASO,Thompson was recognized for his service to thecommunity as part of the Legion’s Homeland Se-

curity Support Program.“We have always held our law enforcement com-

rades in the highest regard,” said Post 24 Com-mander Doug Gurka. “The Alexandria Sheriff’sOffice in particular has consistently exceeded thehighest professional standards.”

As part of the ceremony, Sheriff Dana Lawhornespoke of Thompson’s work ethic and many contri-butions to the ASO, including his eight years withthe Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team and as ateam leader for the Sheriff ’s Honor Guard.Lawhorne then surprised everyone in attendanceby announcing Thompson’s promotion to sergeant.

“I was going to announce the promotion tomor-row morning,” Lawhorne said. “But with so manyof Deputy Thompson’s family and friends heretonight, I thought it would be nice if he was ableto share this moment with them.”

Thompson’s wife Teri, son Trey and daughterAyla were in attendance at the ceremony. Joiningthem were Thompson’s parents, Elaine and MelvinMarshall, sister, Natalie Thompson, and PastorTony Ares with his wife Kim and children Courtneyand Nadia.

Prior to joining the ASO, Thompson served fouryears in the U.S. Marine Corps and eight years asa volunteer firefighter for the Dumfries/Triangleand Montclair stations.

“This is a real honor,” Thompson said. “I amhumbled by this award and very grateful to havethe support of my wife, family and friends, notjust tonight but every day.”

Alexandria Sheriff’s Office Master Deputy Norman Thompson, third from left,poses for a photo with family and friends after receiving the Law EnforcementOfficer of the Year Award March 14 from American Legion Post 24 in Old Town.Joining Thompson are Post 24 Commander Doug Gurka, left, and Sheriff DanaLawhorne, right.

World War II veteran Col. Kim Ching,left, congratulates Master DeputyNorman Thompson on being recognizedas the Law Enforcement Officer of theYear.

Thompson Named Officer of Year

The Alexandria Police De-partment is investigatinga homicide that occurred

on Sunday, March 25, in the 2200block of N. Beauregard Street.

At approximately 6:24 p.m., po-lice responded to a fight betweenrelatives. Upon arriving, officerslocated an unconscious man andhe was transported to an area hos-pital. Brian Cruz-Segovia, 23, acity resident, was arrested the dayof the assault and charged withmalicious wounding.

The victim, Nelson Cruz, 28, also

a city resident, died from his inju-ries at the hospital on March 28.The Office of the Chief MedicalExaminer determined the mannerof death to be homicide.

Additional charges may bepending and will be determinedafter consultation with the Alex-andria Office of theCommonwealth’s Attorney. Any-one with information about thisincident is asked to contact Detec-tive William Oakley at 703-746-6606. This is the first homicide inAlexandria this year.

Arrest Follows Fatal Fight

By Vernon Miles

Gazette Packet

There was a reason yourparents probably told younot to study those arts

classes in college and focus ongetting a practical degree. Arts,beloved as they are, can be a fi-nancially unrewarding passion. Soas Alexandria’s city governmentworks to promote local arts, itfaces a challenge in getting itfunded.

The city’s answer is to turn to asolution that’s had some successwith affordable housing in Alex-andria: developer contributions.To combat the rapidly decliningmarket-affordable housing mar-ket, Alexandria implemented asystem where developers couldtrade bonus density on projects in

exchange for affordable housingspace in their project or a contri-bution to the affordable housingfund. On April 3, the PlanningCommission approved a plan toimplement a similar system for anew Old Town North Arts andCultural District.

Developers can secure over 30percent more density over thecity’s usual maximum Floor AreaRatio in exchange for hosting anarts or cultural anchor. These an-chors are defined as a destinationor venue where arts or culturalworks are taught, created, andmade available to the public byvarious means including present-ing live performances of theater,dance, music, or other imaginativework and/or producing or exhib-iting physical works created by or

Old Town, New ArtCommission approves developercontributions for Arts District.

Honored by Post 24.

2 ❖ Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ April 5-11, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com


NewsAlexandria Gazette Editor Steven Mauren

703-778-9415 or [email protected]

There’s not a lot of room in Alexandria fornew housing. Something was bound tofill the empty lot on a cul-de-sac at the end

of Uhler Terrace in Del Ray. Despite concerns fromsome neighbors, the Planning Commission approveda single family dwelling for 105 Uhler Terrace.

“The criteria for substandard lot is that it doesn’tnegatively affect property values,” said SusanLavington. “It seems that that’s been made in avery subjective way in this case. This is not a culde sac. If you’ve been to this street, it’s a tight,one lane with no space to get out. Now it’s goingto be even tighter and more difficult to get out of

the driveway. It will affect property value of myhouse. We feel like we have a gun to our head.”

Despite this, the Planning Commission agreedthat in terms of potential developments on thesite, the proposed single family dwelling was thebest option.

“I can’t imagine that I could have come up witha better solution for this site than what they cameup with,” said Commissioner David Brown. “Thisis as good a situation as you could hope for.”

— Vernon Miles

By Jeanne Theismann

Gazette Packet

Deputy Chief Dave Huchler, whobriefly served as acting Chief ofPolice for the Alexandria PoliceDepartment, was honored at a

reception March 27 at Landini BrothersRestaurant marking his retirement from theAPD and celebrating his hiring as the newChief of Police of the Metropolitan Wash-ington Airports Authority.

“Your service has been second to none,”said Mayor Allison Silberberg in thankingHuchler for his 26 years of service to the com-munity. “Alexandria’s loss is MWAA’s gain.”

Huchler began his APD career in 1991 asa patrol officer, steadily moving up in theranks to police lieutenant, police captainand deputy chief in 2012.

“This is very emotional for me,” saidHuchler in thanking his friends and familyfor their support. “We try to say this is not

personal, that the APD is just business. Butit is personal. This is a family.”

Huchler briefly touched on the recentchanges within the APD that include theretirement of Deputy Chief Dianne Gittinsand Captain Len Fouch. Police Chief MichaelBrown has announced the elimination of theDeputy Chief position and will be conduct-ing a national search for the newly createdposition of Assistant Chief of Police.

“It’s been quite a year but we’ll move onfrom this and be better for this,” Huchlersaid. “Most of my career I have reflected onmy failures, but I like to think that I alwaysfailed forward. I’ll be able to lead an agencybecause of my experience here in Alexan-dria.”

As the Airports Authority Police Chief,Huchler will direct the operations of thepolice force at Ronald Reagan WashingtonNational Airport, Washington Dulles Inter-national Airport and the Dulles Toll Road.

“I knew Dave when he first came on theforce,” said former APD Chief Earl Cook. “Iwatched his career develop and alwaysknew that he would move on to even greateropportunities because of his skill and ex-pertise.”

Huchler holds a bachelor’s degree in lawenforcement and a master’s degree in pub-lic administration from George Mason Uni-versity. He also serves as an adjunct profes-sor in George Mason’s Department of Crimi-nology, Law and Society and is a memberof the International Association of Chiefs

The Alexandria Police Depart-ment is investigating a traffic crashthat occurred on Friday, March 30,in the 4300 block of King Street.

At approximately 2:37 a.m., po-lice responded to the area for asingle vehicle crash. Initial inves-tigation indicates Victor Fugitt, a34-year-old from Haymarket, wasdriving a motorcycle eastbound onKing Street when he struck a lightpole. He died at the scene of thecrash.

Members of the Criminal Inves-tigations Section and Crash Recon-struction Team are investigatingthe collision. The investigation is

ongoing. Alexandria Police askthat witnesses or people with in-formation regarding this incidentcontact Detective Loren King at703-746-.6689.

CRIME INCIDENTS

APRIL 3The Alexandria Police Department is

conducting a death investigation inthe 1400 block of Roundhouse Lane.

MARCH 28The Alexandria Police Department is

investigating a robbery in the 300block of W Glebe Road. A manpunched a woman and stole herpurse. There were no serious injuries.

Police Investigate Fatal CrashCramped housingdevelopment approved.Uhler Terrace

He’s been namedMWAA Chief of Police.

Huchler Retires from Alexandria Police Department

of Police.“Every day I look at what this city has

given to me,” said Huchler of his wife Jackie,who he met while on the job. “My beautifulfamily, my colleagues — so many have con-tributed to my success. It has been a won-derful career.”

Dave Huchler, right, with hiswife Jackie and son Aiden,11, at his APD retirementparty.

Deputy Chief Dave Huchler, right, is congratulated on hisretirement from the Alexandria Police Department byformer Police Chief Earl Cook March 27 at Landini Broth-ers Restaurant.

Photos by Jeanne Theismann/Gazette Packet

Former APD Deputy Chief Eddie Reyes with DaveHuchler.

APD Captain LenFouch has announcedhis retirement.

Deputy Chief DianneGittins has announcedher retirement fromthe APD.

Deputy Chief DaveHuchler when hejoined the APD in1991.

Photos contributed


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Pillows, Lighting and AccessoriesNews

A jury found Robert D.Coleman, a 27-year-oldAlexandria resident,guilty of murder in the

second degree-felony on April 3 andrecommended a 10-year prison sen-tence for the killing of FedeliaMontiel-Benitez.

The evidence established that in the earlymorning hours of July 10, 2017, Colemanencountered Montiel-Benitez inside of aconvenience store located in the 4900 blockof Seminary Road. Coleman was not ac-quainted with the victim. Video surveillancefrom inside the store showed Coleman ap-pearing to verbally taunt the victim untilanother individual sought to intercede. Thevictim exchanged words with Coleman asshe left the store and Coleman appeared tobecome enraged. Coleman followedMontiel-Benitez outside of the store andattacked her without warning, striking herin the face with his fist.

Coleman was much larger than Montiel-Benitez, and the force of his punch knockedher unconscious. As she fell, she struck herhead and sustained injuries that ultimatelyled to her death.

Commonwealth’s Attorney Bryan Portersaid: “In an all-too-often repeated theme, atragedy unfolded because of a defendant’sinability to tolerate a perceived slight. Ver-bal arguments should never devolve into

physical altercations because physi-cal altercations often bring devas-tating consequences.

“So it was here, where a randomencounter and brief argument in-side of a store led to inexplicableviolence.

“Ms. Montiel-Benitez did nothingto cause such an irrational and vicious re-sponse from the defendant. I am saddenedby the needless loss of life, and my thoughtsare with the victim’s family.

“I thank the jury for their time and atten-tion, and for serving as the conscience ofthe community. By finding the defendantguilty of murder and recommending a sig-nificant sentence, the jury has demonstratedthat Alexandrians will not stand for suchbrutality.

“I also wish to highly commend the out-standing police work that brought this caseto a just result.”

Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attor-ney David A. Lord prosecuted the matteron the behalf of the Commonwealth. Thecase was investigated by DetectiveBikeramjit Gill of the Alexandria Police De-partment.

The defendant remains in the custody ofthe Sheriff and is incarcerated in theTruesdale Adult Detention Center. The for-mal sentencing hearing of the matter wasset on May 24, at 10 a.m.

Coleman: Guilty of Murder


4

Co-Chair

Kathy Burns

(Democrat)

Co-Chair

Hal Hardaway

(Independent)

Co-Chair

Bob Wood

(Republican)

Candidate Interviews Underway Endorsements Coming Soon

Vote June 12

News

From Page 1

Arts Districtunder the direction of one or moreartists, which are intended forunique production or limited re-production. Museums where artand/or historic artifacts are dis-played and/or created, art schools,including but not limited to culi-nary art schools, instructional art,music, or drama academy mayalso qualify as Arts and/or Cul-tural Anchor.

The program approved by thePlanning Commission would act asa pilot, with ongoing review bystaff of projects implementing anarts or cultural anchor. During thePlanning Commision discussion,one of the main concerns was thatthe language in the legislation wasoverly prescriptive and would de-ter businesses from participating.

“If we’re going to have an artsand cultural district, let’s do some-thing that actually works andcauses something to happen ratherthan just nice language,” said Plan-ning Commissioner MariaWasowski, “We’re being chal-lenged to be creative in how weapproach this text amendment. It’snew territory. There’s guidancebased on what’s been done inother places but not a whole lot.What we want to do is open our-selves up to experimentation andnew ideas.”

One item that drew criticismwas a limit of Arts and CulturalAnchor space to 50,000 squarefeet. Commissioner Nathan Macekreferred back to the city’s FoodTruck pilot, where a programopening up a few areas of the cityto food trucks failed because strictprovisions deterred any potentialtrucks from taking part.

“We tend to be overly prescrip-tive on pilots and they fail,” saidMacek. “I don’t want to see usthrow a wet blanket on this pro-posal. I want it to succeed.”

The amendment was changedfrom 50,000 square feet to100,000.

One of the other concerns raisedwas the potential for the Old TownNorth Arts and Culture District tocompete with developer contribu-tions to affordable housing. Com-missioner Maria Wasowski notedthat the Arts and Culture Districtis very limited in scope to an areaof Alexandria where there isn’t alot of opportunity for affordablehousing, which opened up con-cerns about whether certain areasof Alexandria are or aren’t realis-tic for affordable housing.

The Old Town North Arts andCulture District was unanimouslyapproved by the Planning Com-mission and goes to the City Coun-cil on April 14.


News

By Jeanne Theismann

Gazette Packet

Two-time City Council candidateBob Wood, along with commu-nity leaders Kathy Burns andHal Hardaway, announced

March 29 the formation of a non-partisanPolitical Action Committee calledAlexandrians for Better City Government,or A4BCG.

In a press conference held at the BeatleyCentral Library, the trio representing threepolitical viewpoints announced that it willscreen candidates running for mayor andCity Council in the June 12 Democratic pri-mary and endorse those who the PAC feels“are most committed and qualified to re-store citizen confidence in city hall.”

“Our government has not delivered an-swers to questions that have routinely beenasked and routinely dismissed,” Wood said.“We will recommend one mayor and threeCity Council candidates. By concentratingour votes this way, citizens have the bestchance to overcome the inherent incum-bency bias of ‘at large’ elections and achievereal change in the makeup of city govern-ment.”

Wood added that the June 12 primary is“essentially our general election for our city”and outlined the three areas of focus forthe PAC: accountability, safety andaffordability.

Hardaway addressed the issue ofaffordability.

“Poor choices, unexamined priorities,mismanagement, or underperforming in-vestments cannot be compounded by un-accountable government,” said Hardaway,a retired Naval officer and Old Town resi-dent. “As citizens, we cannot afford it. Wewill look closely at how candidates for ourCity Council discuss their approach to taxes,the cost of living in Alexandria and afford-able housing.”

The PAC will conduct its review via ques-tionnaire as well as from information gath-ered during presentations, debates, discus-sions and public remarks made by the can-didates.

“Interviews are possible to add necessaryclarity and understanding of candidate po-sitions,” Wood added.

Burns, a long time city resident and com-munity leader, focused on safety.

“Safety of our community, schools andstreets is a fundamental responsibility of citygovernment,” she said. “Actions here mustsupport the right policies, to purchase andsustain the right equipment, and to hire andto retain the best men and women in ser-vice to the community.”

Wood, a retired lieutenant general andWest Point graduate, said that the recentlyformed PAC is a way to educate voters onthe issues.

“Candidates need to better represent our

citizens and be more ac-countable to solve prob-lems,” Wood said. “Alex-andria voters can nolonger accept the statusquo in Council of con-stant discord and disre-spect, on the dais andtoward citizens.”

He continued: “Simplypassing a problem tostaff is not leadership inour opinion. Regardlessof new, old, incumbentor not, we need electedofficials who can be in-tent on the safety that weneed in our city — on ourstreets, in our schools —and address theaffordability of peoplewho live in this city andcall it home. Many areabout one decision awayfrom leaving becausethey cannot afford therising of taxes, the in-crease of fees and theindirect cost of burdensin their neighborhood. It focuses back tothe candidates on how they present solu-tions to problems that remain chronic andunsolved.”

See www.Alex4BCG.org.

SpreadingSpring CheerSheriff Dana Lawhorneand members of hisstaff helped the EasterBunny spread springcheer on Friday, March30. First the Sheriff’sOffice escorted theEaster Bunny toCharles HoustonRecreation Center tovisit seniors as well asyouths who were onspring break. TheBunny Brigade handedout stuffed toys andcandy there beforeheading out to sur-prise families at sev-

Come Together to Support Alexandria’s Giving DayS

pring2ACTion, Alexandria’s GivingDay, returns Wednesday, April 25.The 24-hour online giving event pro-

vides a way for donors to connect to thecharitable causes they care about most andencourages them to take action. This onlinefundraising effort, hosted by ACT for Alex-andria will offer local nonprofits the chance

to raise thousands of dollars for the benefitof all Alexandria.

Last year, more than 9,000 individualsgave during Spring2ACTion, raising a record-breaking $1,592,459 for 158 nonprofit or-ganizations at www.Spring2ACTion.org.

This year, the more than 150 participat-ing nonprofit organizations represent a va-

riety of causes, including health andwellness, animal rescue, food and shelter,arts and music, schools and PTAs, childrenand families, and more. From providingscholarships to summer camp to buildingbaseball fields to pro-bono legal services toserving meals to low-income families, themoney raised during Spring2ACTion willcontinue to have an impact on the commu-nity throughout the year.

Support Spring2ACTion by making anonline donation at www.Spring2ACTion.org.Early giving begins on April 11. The mini-mum donation is $5. Residents can also sup-port this citywide giving day by visiting lo-cal businesses that are offering special pro-motions and/or donating a percentage ofsales back to nonprofits. Examples include:

❖ Alexandria Restaurant Partners Restau-rants (Lena’s Woodfire Pizza, The Majestic,Virtue Feed & Grain, Vola’s Dockside Grilland Hi-Tide Lounge) will donate 5 percentproceeds to ACT on April 25;

❖ Comfort One Shoes will donate 5 per-cent of purchases made during the monthof April in all Alexandria stores to localnonprofits;

❖ Yates Automotive will benefitSpring2ACTion through its Give Your TwoCents program during April;

❖ Sugar Shack will give customers a freedonut with proof of a donation on April 25;

❖ Participate in Good. Works. Wednes-day. by shopping at Penny Post or Red BarnMercantile to help nonprofits win $1,500

in prizes;❖ Holy Cow Burgers, Pork Barrel BBQ and

Sweet Fire Donna’s will donate 25 cents permeal to charity of the customer’s choice; and

❖ Whole Foods’ Nickels for Nonprofitsprogram will benefit ACT during Aprilthrough June when customers bring theirown shopping bags.

Giving Day Sponsors include: AlexandriaRestaurant Partners, Grant Thornton, Mariaand Harry Hopper, McEnearney AssociatesRealtors, Access National Bank, BeyerSubaru, Caudron Megary Blackburn WealthManagement Group, Comfort One Shoes,Holy Cow Burgers, Focus Data Solutions,John Marshall Bank, Penny Post, Red BarnMercantile, Pork Barrel BBQ, Reingold,Sweet Fire Donna’s, Yates Automotive,Alphagraphics, ALX Community andBrighter Strategies.

Community Partners include the Alexan-dria Arts Alliance, Alexandria Chamber ofCommerce, Alexandria City Public Schools,Alexandria Economic Development Partner-ship, Alexandria Gazette Packet,Alexandrianews.org, Alexandria Times, DelRay Business Association, Good.Works.Wednesday., Patch, Sugar Shack Do-nuts, Visit Alexandria, Washington StreetUnited Methodist Church, Whole Foods, andThe Zebra. Spring2ACTion is hosted on theGive Gab platform.

For more information aboutSpring2ACTion, Alexandria’s Giving Day,visit www.Spring2ACTion.org.

Wood, Burns, and Hardaway join forces.Leaders of the PACKathy Burns, left,talks about her rolein the newly formednon-partisan Politi-cal Action Commit-tee Alexandrians forBetter City Govern-ment at a March 29press conference atBeatley CentralLibrary. With her isco-chair and two-time City Councilcandidate BobWood.

Bob Wood

KathyBurns

Photos by Jeanne Theismann/Gazette Packet

KathyBurns

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eral parks, including the playgrounds at Potomac Yard, Hume Springsand Presidential Greens. This annual outreach event is a partnershipbetween the Easter Bunny Foundation and the Sheriff’s Office.


Opinion

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Gazette PacketAlexandria

See Letters, Page 11

SnapshotAfternoon of April 3 on thewaterfront.

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Coming TogetherOn Gun ViolenceTo the Editor:

To my fellow citizens,It breaks my heart that our children are ex-

posed to school shootings. However, upon theheels of the March for Our Lives held in Wash-ington, D.C., and around the world, I am hope-ful that positive change is on the horizon.

After the shooting in Florida I began a con-versation on Facebook with “my community.”It was a long, civil conversation with disagree-ment throughout. I took the conversation off-line with someone who is former military and

a police officer who presentlyworks as a resource officer in aWashington state public highschool. We talked about many is-

sues that surround gun violence today, but Iwanted to understand his opposition to chang-ing gun laws. We talked and to my relief, weagreed on several points.

We both agreed that no law will solve all ofour problems. We agreed that parents need tobe present, to be aware of their children andsensitive to their needs. We talked about theneed for better mental health access. We agreedthat social media often doesn’t play a helpfulrole in the lives of teenagers. We talked aboutguns.

We both grew up in a same town where hunt-ing was the norm. I asked him how he feltabout training as a prerequisite for gun own-ership, similar to that required of owning a car.Laws requiring licensure and registration of carand driver don’t prevent bad drivers, but theintent is to create a safer environment. Whycan’t training be built into buying a gun? Justas with buying a car, when shopping for a gunyou plan on similar requirements. Will this stopillegal gun ownership? Absolutely not. Wouldthis reduce illegal guns and help reduce crimescommitted with guns? That is the hope. I alsoliken it to medication, cancer research andtreatment. Not all drugs work on all patients,not all cancer treatments work on all patientsor even all of the time, but we still use themwith the hope of saving a percentage of lives.

Recent studies have shown that the humanbrain doesn’t fully develop until at least 25years of age. The current law allows an 18 yearold to buy a rifle and a 21 year old to buy ahandgun – without supervision or training. Themilitary accepts soldiers at the age of 18, butthey are closely supervised and constantly intraining, key aspects to their decision-making.My friend volunteered that he has no issue withincreasing the age for gun ownership. Com-promise. Understanding that legal, responsiblegun owners are not the issue, but realizing thatguns are part of the equation.

Many variables involved in gun violence can-not be legislated, but through public campaignsand service announcements we can remindpeople of the power of social media and theneed to speak responsibly and respectfully. Wemust talk to others whose opinion we may notshare as a means to create better understand-ing and to work for the common good. Theseaspects cannot be overlooked, but neither canthe access to guns be ignored. Too many livesare lost daily across this country.

Please step back and reflect on the numberof deaths from gun violence — mass shootingsand the daily killings. Our children are exposed

to unacceptable situations and we are creat-ing an unacceptable social norm. Our youthcreated an amazing March For Our Lives withremarkable, passionate speakers from acrossthe country. They have hope which gives mehope. Join their cause, make it our cause andlet us bring wholeness to this country.

Sally SchneiderAlexandria

Pay Police OfficersWhat They’re WorthTo the Editor:

As the widow of a fallen Alexandria Policeofficer and the mother of an Alexandria Policeofficer, I am very concerned about the safetyof our officers. The city has continued to dis-regard their pay philosophy, which states it willpay their employees competitively.

Alexandria Police are and have been the low-est paid police department in the metropoli-tan area, yet they provide the city with excep-tional service every day. The Police Departmentranks third (behind the Fire Department andLibraries) as how positively the residents seecity agencies and programs.

My first husband, Corporal Charlie Hill, gavehis life serving this city on March 22, 1989.Charlie died saving the life of a 17-year-olddrug dealer.

He left behind two young sons. His young-est son, Rob, is now an officer on this depart-ment.

If the city continues to ignore their philoso-phy and pay our officers at the current rate,they will continue to lose quality officers toother surrounding jurisdictions. How manyofficers can you afford to train for other de-partments? Of the department’s street patrolofficers, 46 percent have five years or less onthe force. This is a staggering figure and a hugeofficer safety issue. These officers deal with the

Letters

citizens every day. We need to make the in-vestment in our officers now so they will stayto become veteran officers to lead this depart-ment in the future. The event at Simpson Parkwas an anomaly, and because of the abilitiesof the three officers involved we did not loseone life except for the shooter.

The officers the department hires are beingrecruited by other agencies at a higher pay assoon as they start the academy. These officers,after being trained, will look to other depart-ments to go to. The cost to train one officer is$100,000 plus. Does the city have this kind ofmoney to throw away?

Mayor Silberberg, Council members and CityManager Mark Jinks, wake up! You need topay fairly and competitively to keep our qual-ity officers from leaving to go with other agen-cies.

Ginny Hill-Obranovich

Sheriff’s HandlingOf ICE WarrantsTo the Editor:

On March 20, I witnessed the difficult andat times very personal presentation by the Al-exandria Sheriff Dana Lawhorne before theCity Council. Fairfax County’s terminating oftheir contract with ICE brought to the forefrontquestions about Alexandria’s policies govern-ing the relationship between the city jail, thecontracted Federal holding floor at the jail andICE. The sheriff was responding to questionsthat had been raised at the previous Saturday’sCity Council public comment period.

The sheriff explained that he had a differentcontract with the Federal government thanFairfax County had and terminating it wouldmore difficult. He made statements about thelegal weight of ICE’s administrative warrants.

He also argued that, if an immigrant thatwas released based on a more liberal policyinterpretation went on to cause serious harm,the sheriff himself would be blamed harshly.At that point in his testimony, I felt empathyfor his concerns for the well being of our com-munity as well as for his concerns for his ownreputation. Are the sheriff’s policies followingthe law? He presented documentation whichseemed to show: yes. Are they the most liberalpolicies possible regarding holding detaineesfor ICE that are also within the law? On theprevious Saturday, the city attorney had saidthe answer was: no. For example, the sheriffmight raise the standard for detaining the un-documented for ICE based on administrativewarrants to the higher standard of requiringjudicial warrants.

The most disturbing part of his presentationwas that, although the Sheriff ’s Office re-searched for three days, they could only de-termine the status or location of 64 of the 111individuals that they turned over to ICE in2017. The apparent lack of the right of habeascorpus for the undocumented and/or ICE’sapparent lack of concern for transparencymakes the decision to choose the more con-servative interpretation of Alexandria’s rela-tionship to ICE a greater moral hazard.

The sheriff said that he was elected in orderto make these decisions.

To some degree, that is true and I am sym-pathetic to his burdens of office. But I also be-lieve officials are elected in order to carry out



Opinion

By Willie F. Bailey Sr.

Member of City Council

For almost two decades, Al-exandria has lost a consid-erable amount of its af-

fordable housing stock, making itincreasingly difficult for averageAlexandrians like our seniors,veterans, teachers, and other public sector workforceto live comfortably. The declining housing stockshould not be a surprise to anyone living in Alexan-dria. The time for talk and no action is over and as acity government, we need to put our money whereour mouth is and create a dedicated funding streamto sustain affordable housing in our city.

It has become the norm around town that Alexan-dria is too expensive, but to me that’s just plain un-acceptable. Our police and firefighters should be able

to call the place where they pro-tect and serve home too. Our se-nior citizens should be able to agein place, comfortably, and with

respect. And our veterans deserve the right to comeback to a home where they were born and raised.Our sense of community is eroding and more mustbe done to reverse any further damage.

With development in Alexandria continuing togrow, the ever need for subsidies to serve lower andmoderate income households increases and we willbe at a shortfall. Citizens and advocacy organizationsalike have asked once again for a reliable, dedicatedsource of funding. That’s what I intend to do.

As a city and as a broader regional community, Ibelieve Alexandria can lead by thinking outside of

the box when it comes to housing affordability. It istrue that Alexandria is not the only locality dealingwith this issue. Just last week we saw that in theWashington Post that officials in Miami-Dade County,with the fourth-largest school district in the main-land, are pushing a plan to build housing for teach-ers on land right on or next to the schools wherethey work. The plan is serious and money has al-ready been committed to the project. As a city, wehave to take a serious look at how we advocate forand acquire affordable housing because we are head-ing down a dangerous path.

Lack of available affordable housing is rearing itshead all across our country. But in Alexandria, thetime for actionable solutions is now and I know thatwe can lead the way. Some have argued against dedi-cated funding streams, but Alexandria already usesmultiple dedicated funding streams to address someof our most serious challenges; and securing addi-tional funds for affordable housing through a smalltax is no different.

Michelle Krocker from the Northern Virginia Af-fordable Housing Alliance, said it best, “As the aver-age rent for a one-bedroom apartment approaches$1,700 a month, working residents with modest in-comes, new families with young children and seniorson fixed incomes are being priced out of the city’shousing market. Our workforce in the restaurant andhospitality industry, healthcare workers, small busi-ness employees and many others struggle to findhousing that they can afford.”

I’m open to hearing solutions and options fromanyone willing to tackle this challenge with me. Istrongly believe that no solution is perfect, but some-thing needs to be done and it needs to be done now.

Sustain Affordable Housing Now

Commentary

Letters to the Editor

From Page 10

the laws of the land, the will of those they repre-sent, and to be guided by compassion. If Alexandria’sstatement on inclusiveness (2007 and amended2016) represents the will of the majority of our citi-zens, most Alexandrians would hope the sheriffwould lean toward more liberal policies regardingundocumented members of our community.

Robert RayCandidate for City Council

Retain BestAnd BrightestTo the Editor:

I would like to second James Baker’s letter [“Re-

volving Door Staffing,” Gazette Packet, March 22]regarding the revolving door of our first respondersand their training.

It makes little sense to spend the money trainingthese police officers and EMTs, just to have themleave us for a higher paying neighbor. This is a greatcity, but it’s an expensive city. If we are to retain thebest and brightest we need to pay them enough tobe able to live here.

I have been a resident of Alexandria for many de-cades and have always been grateful for the profes-sional response of these men and women.

Murney KeleherAlexandria


By Char McCargo Bah

On Jan. 1, 1863, President Lincolnsigned the Emancipation Procla-mation freeing all the enslavedblacks in Union-controlled areas.

The Virginia Restored Government led by theprovisional governor, Francis H. Pierpont(Pierpoint) who declared Alexandria as thecapital of Virginia during the Civil War, votedto emancipate all the slaves in Virginia under

Union rule on April 7, 1864.When the Union took overother counties in Virginia,each county emancipatedtheir slaves. One year later,

the Federal government declared victory andslavery officially ended with some resistanceby the lower southern states against the Union.

For 50 years, African Americans in Alexan-dria celebrated Emancipation Day. ProminentAfrican Americans of that era organized pa-rades and had speakers. Those celebrations didnot take place on the actual anniversary dateof Alexandria’s Emancipation Day, but on dif-ferent months of the year, for example: it wascelebrated in January for the following years1890, 1891, 1900 and 1901; celebrated in May1905; and it was celebrated in September forthe following years 1893, 1895, 1896, 1903and 1910. What was consistent was that everyyear for 50 years, the African Americans inAlexandria celebrated their freedom in ceremo-nies throughout Alexandria by displaying Presi-dent Lincoln’s picture in their parades, at theirbanquets and at their conferences. The con-ferences usually centered on different topicsfor that years’ celebration, for example: accom-plishments of the colored race since Emanci-pation Day, voter registration, adequate schoolsfor colored people, adequate housing and com-munity involvement.

During those early emancipation ceremonies,the Emancipation committee sent invitationsto well-known speakers. Some of the speakersover the course of those 50 years of celebra-tions included: the Honorable FrederickDouglass, Congressman John M. Langston,Booker T. Washington, Colonel John M. Hay,ministers from Alexandria and Washington,D.C.; and many other prominent dignitariesof that era.

Alexandria African Americans’ Emancipation Day

The individuals and organizations respon-sible for those celebrations over a 50 year spanwere: Mangus L. Robinson, editor of WeeklyNewspaper, owner of National Leader News-paper, Freemason and a member of the Orderof Odd Fellows; his brother, Robert B.Robinson; and his father, Reverend Robert H.Robinson, founder of William Normal & Inde-pendent School, Grand Master of Freemasons;William A. Carter, store owner and Washing-ton Bee correspondent; George L. Seaton,builder and businessman; Washington N. Jack-son, hotel owner of Jackson’s Hotel and busi-nessman; and John W. “Baker” Jackson, bak-ery owner, hotel owner and businessman. Alsoseveral local churches hosted the emancipa-tion celebrations throughout the years: Rob-erts Chapel (Roberts Memorial United Meth-odist Church); Third Baptist Church; ShilohBaptist Church; and other African Americanchurches in Alexandria. The emancipation cer-emonies were also held at different venues:Lannon’s Opera House; Jackson Hotel; OddFellow Lodge; and Baker’s Jackson’s Hotel.

In 2015, Mayor William D. Euille read theProclamation and recognized April 7, 2015, asthe 151st anniversary of the emancipation ofenslaved people in Alexandria. Prior to theformer mayor’s acknowledgement of the eman-

cipation of enslaved people, African Americansin Alexandria had quietly stopped celebratingEmancipation Day on April 7 and joined thenation in celebrating the Emancipation Day inWashington, D.C., and the Juneteenth Eman-cipation Day, when slaves in Texas were eman-cipated on June 19, 1865.

Many of the African Americans in Alexan-dria responsible for organizing the Emancipa-tion ceremonies were all dead by the late1930s. The younger generation celebratedJuneteenth’s Emancipation Day as their Eman-cipation Day, because they did not know aboutthe Emancipation ceremonies that the oldergeneration celebrated.

Alexandria has a unique documented historyabout the emancipation of enslaved AfricanAmericans in Alexandria. This history shouldbe preserved for generations to come, so thatthey can learn about the struggle of enslavedpeople.

Happy Emancipation Day to all of the peoplewhose enslaved ancestors came to Alexandriafor their freedom and experienced the jubila-tion of freedom.

Char McCargo Bah is a freelance writer, indepen-dent historian, genealogist and a Living Legend ofAlexandria. Visit her blog at http://www.theotheralexandria.com for more about “TheOther Alexandria.”

Photo courtesy

of Library of

Congress

PresidentAbrahamLincoln andhis cabinetat the WhiteHousediscussingthe draftEmancipa-tion Procla-mation.

The Other

Alexandria

Susan Joyce CluffSusan Joyce Cluff (Williams) died

on March 14, 2018 after a long battlewith scleroderma and other healthissues. Her health had been decliningfor many years, but her passing wasunexpected. The family is comfortedthat she is no longer in pain, though she isdearly missed.

Susan, or Susie to many, was born in Chi-cago, Ill. on Jan. 21, 1945 to Robert and Dor-othy Williams. Most of her childhood was spentin Alexandria, Va. She graduated fromHammond High School in 1964 and went onto Mary Washington College. While at collegeshe met and was swept off her feet by her fu-ture husband Mike. They would have cel-ebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary on

March 30. As a military wife, Susielived all over the U.S. and abroad,gathering cherished friends every-where.

Susie was an avid antique collectorand was certified in Appraisal Stud-ies & Decorative Arts from GeorgeWashington University. She owned

Blue Butterfly Antiques which kept her busyin her search for treasures. Many of these findswere brought home for Mike to refinish.

Susie was also very active with St. Andrew’sEpiscopal Church in Burke, Va. and TrinityEpiscopal Church in Newport, R.I. After mov-ing to Vinson Hall, Mike and Susie joined St.Dunstan Episcopal Church in McLean, Va. Sheheld a Certification in Education for Ministry(EFM) from University of the South School ofTheology. Mike and Susie enjoyed traveling

and have been all over the world on manyadventures.

Susie will be remembered by her husband,Col. Michael L. Cluff (ret), their children,Michael Sean Cluff (Ronda) and KristinMichelle Shafer, and by her sister, Dr. SharonWilliams Ignarro (Lou). She was blessed withthree grandchildren, Andrew Ryan Shafer, EricMatthew Shafer, and Grace Matthews Cluff.Susie’s warm smile and gracious manner willbe forever held in their hearts.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday,April 8, at 3 p.m., at St. Dunstan EpiscopalChurch, 1830 Kirby Rd, McLean, Va.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations inremembrance of Susie may be made to theNavy Marine Coast Guard Residence Founda-tion, 6251 Old Dominion Drive, McLean, VA,22101 Attn: Sara Simms.

Obituary

History

Alexandria Gazette Packet ❖ April 5-11, 2018 ❖ 13www.ConnectionNewspapers.com online at www.connectionnewspapers.comLocal Media Connection LLC

SeniorLivingSeniorLivingSeniorLivingAPRIL 2018APRIL 2018Gazette PacketGazette Packet

AlexandriaAlexandria


A community of volunteers providing practical, social and emotional support for our neighbors ages 55+

Senior Living

See Senior Olympics, Page 15

By Shirley Ruhe

Gazette Packet

It may seem like a long time until Sep-tember when the 36th year of theNorthern Virginia Senior Olympics(NVSO) kicks off.

But not for 83-year-old Chuck Toftoy from

Arlington, who often enters 20 events, andsays he practices all year long.

Opening ceremonies for this year’s eventsare scheduled for Sept. 15 at 9 a.m. at Tho-mas Jefferson Community Center in Arling-ton, and the competition is scheduled to endon Sept. 26.

The NVSO began in 1982 with about 80people competing; last year there were 752competitors signed up for one or more ofthe 70 events offered. The events rangedfrom tennis, baseball throw, bocce,

Preparing for Senior OlympicsNew this year:canasta, croquet andbeach ball wallyball.

Northern VirginiaSenior Olympicsincludes boccecompetition.

File Photo by

Shirley Ruhe/

Gazette Packet


Senior Living

From Page 14

orienteering, swimming and div-ing, golf, corn hole toss, volleyball,and pickleball.

Three new sports have beenadded to the competition this yearincluding canasta, croquet andbeach ball wallyball. Herb Levitan,a member of the NVSO Board, ex-plains beach ball wallyball is likevolleyball but played on a racquet-ball court with a beachball whichis bigger and softer than a volley-ball. Levitan is currently prepar-ing for the Virginia senior gamescoming up soon where he swimsfour freestyle events.

Alease Brooks, 85, has beencompeting for 14 years and par-ticipated in 13 different sports in2017. But her favorite is pickleball.Her children have bought her T-shirts in different colors for hergames and often come to watchher and cheer her on.

Toftoy says this year he plans toreduce the number of sports heenters so that he can concentrateon pickleball since he plans to en-ter singles, doubles and mixed

competition this year.Last year, 93-year old Henry

Colette from Oakton was one of19 bocce competitors. But for thelast several years he has been guar-anteed a win because there wasno one else in his age group com-peting.

Last year’s oldest competitorwas 101 years old with her sportof choice was duplicate bridge.

Seniors participate for many rea-sons — some because they like tostay busy and fit, others becausethey are returning to a high schoolor college sport, some becausethey like the community of friendsthey see every year and othersbecause they still “like to dreambig.”

This year’s games are expectedto be held in 29 venues includingcommunity centers, parks, highschools and other locations acrossNorthern Virginia. Registration forthis year’s NVSO will open June1. This year NVSO is hoping tobring back the 5k run and lookingfor an event director for that event.Those interested in volunteeringcan call 703-403-5360.

Kim Adermancompetes in

last year’sdiving match.

File Photo by

Shirley Ruhe/

Gazette Packet

Senior Olympics


Senior Living

By John Byrd

Fred and Liz Saalfeld had occupiedtheir four-bedroom 2,800-square-foot Colonial in Springfield fornearly five decades when the un-

expected caused them to reconsider basichousing needs. Without warning, LizSaalfeld suffered a heart attack. Her mobil-ity — previously hampered by arthritis —now became seriously compromised.

Looking ahead, a wheelchair-access planalso now seemed prudent to Fred Saalfeld,who increasingly relied a pair of canes toget around.

The proposed retrofit was a tall order,however. The master bedroom was on thesecond floor; the laundry room in the base-ment. There was an open carport, but noextra storage space. The master bathroomwas just too narrow for a wheelchair — as-suming there was a way to mount the stairs.

Equally relevant, the home’s surroundinglandscaping was undeveloped, with a steephill in the backyard. There were places tosit, but no quiet places to stretch out andrelax.

Acting decisively, Saalfeld sought freshideas from local remodelers — eventuallydeciding on Michael Nash Kitchens andHomes who had previously remodeled hiskitchen.

“Michael Nash was very responsive to ourneeds, and really understood Aging-In-Placeconsiderations,” Saalfeld said.

Part of that responsiveness arose fromSonny Nazemian, Michael Nash’s founderand president, and a Universal Design Cer-tified Remodeler (UDCR), who commenceddrafting design ideas with the Saalfelds onthe first meeting.

x 42' footprint, Nazemian excavated downthree feet from the existing surface, re-moved six metric tons of earth and — toachieve the necessary compaction —planted a grove of Tock’s shrubbery.

To control water runoff, designers intro-duced a French drain and swell linked toan infiltration trench.

With the foundation issues resolved, at-tention turned to the new addition’s spaceplan and design. Exterior brick cladding wasmatched to the home’s original masonrycreating a seamless enlargement of the ex-isting house. Interior floors were, likewise,

Solution addresses long-term needs arising from spouse’s stroke.

One-Level Master Suite Enables Aging-in-Place

The flagstone patio immediately outside the master bedroom is linked toa network of walkways that segues to a gazebo, an herb garden and anexercise area for the family Irish setter. Owner Fred Saalfeld, who walkswith the aid of two canes, says the remodeling changes have created amajor quality of life improvement that has made it much easier to enjoythe home.

Before remodeling, the home’s existing backyard ascended at a 20degree angle from the rear door. To install the concrete base needed forthe new addition, remodeling Michael Nash had to remove and re-compact approximately six tons of dirt.

The Saalfelds added a wheelchair friendly master suite to the four bed-room colonial they had occupied for over 50 years. The 1,200-square-foot addition extends from the old rear elevation into a formerly hillybackyard. The new addition includes a laundry, a spacious ADA (Ameri-cans with Disabilities Act) master suite with “his” and “her” wardrobeclosets. The French doors access a flagstone patio, and newly land-scaped grounds surrounded by a privacy fence. The addition also has adedicated HVAC system

“Aging-in-place (AIP) is becoming one ofthe high-demand remodeling services seg-ments,” Nazemian said. “But it’s a specialtyarea — and requires staying on top of ever-evolving ADA (American with DisabilitiesAct) regulations, and strict building codes.”

From the first, Nazemian pictured an ad-dition extending from the rear elevation.The Saalfeld would gain expanded sleep-ing quarters and each spouse would have

their own walk-in closet. A wheelchair-friendly bathroom replete with in-showerbench, grab bars and hand-held body spraynozzles would be specially designed. Thelaundry room would be moved to the firstfloor

At 1,200 square feet, the new master suiteaddition features a 14-foot cathedral ceil-ing and double French doors that segue toa flagstone patio. To create the needed 28'

The shower is equipped withgrab bars, a bench and hand-held nozzles — all of whichFred Saalfeld uses in his dailybathing routine.

See Aging-in-Place, Page 19


From Page 16

Senior Living

Remodeling for Aging-in-Placemilled and finished to blend with the hardwood

floors in the existing structure.“The interior style is very consistent throughout,”

Saalfeld saiud. “It’s very much one house.”To ensure natural light and comfort, Nazemian

specified low-E, double Argon-filled glass for all win-dows including a pair of double French doors thatlead to the patio. A smaller louvered door was cre-ated for the family’s Irish setter who exercises in aside yard.

A new split-system HVAC unit was installed to pro-vide the new addition with dedicated heat and aircontrol. The solution proved to be a money-saver,since it concentrates temperature requirements inrooms where the couple spend most of their time.

The master bathroom (at 200 square feet) is amasterpiece of efficiency and warmth. The door fromthe bedroom is 32” wide with the 90 degree swingradius required by the ADA-regulations — yet theinterior design is soft and earthy, porcelain tiling off-set by walnut cabinet facings and a granite-toppedvanity.

Best yet, a series of well-defined walkways linkgarden focal points with a mid-yard gazebo. Sur-rounded by a privacy fence, the grounds are a nicelyprotected Eden, perfect for quiet enjoyment.

For more information, call 703-641-9800 or visitMichaelNashKitchens.com

John Byrd has been writing about home improvement for30 years. He can be reached at 703-715-8006,www.HomeFrontsNews.com or [email protected]. Sendphotos of interesting remodeling projects to:[email protected].

The louvered door on the right is for the family’s Irish setter, who exercises in the sideyard. All doors are at least 32 inches wide and have a 90 degree clearing width.

With a pair of walk-in wardrobe closets on the left, and access to a firstlevel laundry and master bedroom on the right, the access corridor fromthe main house is spacious. The French doors open into the diningroom. Michael Nash matched the original hardwood flooring to create aseamless unity between the old house and the new addition.


By Eric Lockwood

Mass Communication Specialist

2nd Class

Naval History and Heritage Command,

Communication and Outreach Division

It was 65 years ago on March 27 whenFrancis C. Hammond Middle School’snamesake, a young Alexandria man,performed “great personal valor in the

face of overwhelming odds” while takingcare of wounded members of the 1st Ma-rine Division in South Korea.

Hammond was born on Nov. 9, 1931 toHarry and Elvira Hammond, in Alexandria.Harry Hammond worked at a pharmacy,and after high school Francis joined him,planning to become a pharmacist.

Then, on June 25, 1950, North Korea in-vaded South Korea. The United NationsSecurity Council called the invasion a“breach of peace” and President Harry S.Truman quickly committed American troopsto a combined United Nations force to de-fend the 38th parallel.

Francis decided to enlist, joining the Navy.First, he headed off to the Navy’s HospitalCorps School in Great Lakes, Ill. Once amedic, he proceeded to California for moretraining. Anticipating he would be sent toKorea, Francis married his girlfriend in June1952. The following year, Feb. 1, HospitalCorpsman 3rd Class Hammond was as-

signed to the 1st Marine Divi-sion in South Korea.

On the night of March 26,Hammond and the 1st Marineswere trying to retake CombatOutpost Reno, which the NorthKoreans had overrun earlierthat day. The Marines encoun-tered heavy mortar and artil-lery fire as they neared theoutpost.

“We kept going forward andfinally gained posts in a smallshallow trench,” said MarineSgt. William R. Janzen from aseries of articles collected byB.J. Sullivan, a librarian at theschool which bears Hammond’s name.

Undeterred and undaunted by the mor-tar and artillery fire, Hammond got to work.

“He was all over the place patching upthe wounded, no matter how slight theirwounds,” Janzen remembered. “Even afterhe himself was wounded he continued mov-ing about the area, ignoring his ownwounds, and giving as much aid and com-fort to the other wounded as he possiblycould under the circumstances.

“The bravest man I saw out there thatnight was Corpsman Hammond.”

As a relief unit showed up, Hammond’sdivision was ordered to pull back.Hammond refused. According to the Vir-

ginia War Memorial’s website,“[he] did not want to leave hismen, so he stayed behind tohelp evacuate the wounded,refusing care for himself. Whileassisting the units relievingthem, [Hammond] was mor-tally wounded by enemy mor-tar fire.”

Four months later, an armi-stice would end the conflict.

For his actions, Hammondposthumously received thePurple Heart and the Medal ofHonor. His Medal of Honor ci-tation concludes, “By his excep-tional fortitude, inspiring initia-

tive and self-sacrificing efforts, HCHammond undoubtedly saved the lives ofmany Marines. His great personal valor inthe face of overwhelming odds enhancesand sustains the finest traditions of the U.S.Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life forhis country.”

In his honor, the Navy commissioned afrigate named for him on July 25, 1970, theUSS Francis Hammond (FF 1067). Sheserved her country until decommissionedin July 2, 1992.

The Francis C. Hammond High School,which opened in 1956, was named in hishonor. Now a middle school, “the schoolcrest (donated by the Class of ‘62) still

Medal of Honor CitationHAMMOND, FRANCIS C.Rank and organization: Hospital Corpsman,

U.S. Navy, attached as a medical corpsman to1st Marine Division.

Place and date: Korea, 26-27 March 1953.Entered service at: Alexandria, Va.Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity

at the risk of his life above and beyond the call ofduty as a HC serving with the 1st Marine Divisionin action against enemy aggressor forces on thenight of 26-27 March 1953. After reaching anintermediate objective during a counterattackagainst a heavily entrenched and numericallysuperior hostile force occupying ground on abitterly contested outpost far in advance of themain line of resistance, HC Hammond’s platoonwas subjected to a murderous barrage of hostilemortar and artillery fire, followed by a viciousassault by onrushing enemy troops. Resolutelyadvancing through the veritable curtain of fire toaid his stricken comrades, HC Hammond movedamong the stalwart garrison of marines and,although critically wounded himself, valiantlycontinued to administer aid to the other woundedthroughout an exhausting 4-hour period. Whenthe unit was ordered to withdraw, he skillfullydirected the evacuation of casualties andremained in the fire-swept area to assist thecorpsmen of the relieving unit until he was struckby a round of enemy mortar fire and fell, mortallywounded. By his exceptional fortitude, inspiringinitiative and self-sacrificing efforts, HCHammond undoubtedly saved the lives of manymarines. His great personal valor in the face ofoverwhelming odds enhances and sustains thefinest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. Hegallantly gave his life for his country.

History

March 27, 1953: Korean War Sailor Earns Medal of Honor

graces the floor of Hammond’s central hallwith the motto ‘Vivat Academia’ (Long liveAcademics).

Francis C.Hammond,Hospitalman,United States Navy


The office building at 1010 NorthFairfax, directly across from Ca-nal Center Plaza, recently re-ceived a 21st century makeover

for an enhanced workplace image.It’s part of Old Town Alexandria’s trend

promoting adaptive reuse of existing struc-tures for modernized office environmentswithin Old Town’s historic district.

Alexandria-based Cole & Denny Architects(C&D) has transformed the interior twofloors and rooftop of this 1980s structurefrom single tenant to multi-use office spacefeaturing a 9,000 sq. ft. layout. This designexposes the building’s original concretefloors, steel columns, beams, joists, andHVAC systems while updating light fixturesand plumbing. Transformation of exteriorbrick from a light sandy color to a dark gray,installation of modern energy efficient win-dows, an upgraded entryway, and rooftopterrace complete the exterior makeover.

Building owner Christopher Campagna ofBraddock Commercial Realty believes thisnew image will attract a new generation ofentrepreneurs. “This revitalization effortwill cater to start-ups and small businessesalike,” Campagna said. “Its design will fa-cilitate a mobile workforce that doesn’t re-quire lots of space or administrative sup-port, where workers are not tethered tospecific work areas.”

Capitalizing on a trend with commercial

renovations in the metro area, Campagnarequested a rooftop terrace. Partially shel-tered by a stairwell canopy extension, itadds 600 sq. ft. of casual outdoor space forbuilding occupants.

Another C&D conversion project is lo-cated at 130 N. Fayette St. Formerly host-ing an assortment of tenants ranging froma pool hall to a church, renovations to thisearly 20th century structure now accommo-date an open space floor plan for workforceflexibility. C&D refurbished a total of 3,050existing sq. ft., while a new interior mezza-nine, outdoor roof deck, egress stairs, and

contemporary bathrooms add another1,030 sq. ft. of space.

Like 1010 N. Fairfax, 130 N. Fayette’supgrades also meet contemporary officeneeds. Architects removed interior wallsand ceilings, creating work space featuringexposed wooden beams and brick, and newoutlets for updated communications sys-tems. The refurbished basement level offerscubicle-style workstations — its environ-ment brightened by modified light wells inground level windows. The original andexterior stairwells have been removed, re-placed by a new set of interior egress stairs

extending from basement to second floor,and another stairwell from second floor tothe mezzanine level and roof deck.

Gene Ulm, 130 N. Fayette’s owner, alsorequested a roof deck addition. Overlook-ing King and Cameron Streets, this rooftopspace faces west towards the George Wash-ington Masonic Temple.

Situated on the corner of Fayette andCameron streets, 130 N. Fayette’s exteriorfacade retains its original character, ac-cented by cleaned and painted white brick,new black window trim, and a bright redmain entry door.

Building Conversions Signal New Office Environments for Old Town

Rooftop deck tops the renovations at1010 N. Fairfax St. The 130 N. Fayette renovation project.

Photos by Sisson Studios, Inc.

Business


MS programin Biotechnology

http://biotechnology.georgetown.edu

One year with rolling admission

Fall 2018 deadline is 5/15/18

Contact the Program Manager for details

202-687-1070

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News

The Alexandria Library haslaunched its annual one book pro-gram All Alexandria Reads, an ini-tiative designed to create sharedexperiences through reading.

This year, Alexandria is readingan all-American story about a dog:“Sergeant Stubby: How a StrayDog and His Best Friend HelpedWin World War I and Stole theHeart of a Nation” by award-win-ning author Ann Bausum.

Similar themed books foryounger readers will be featuredtoo.

The All Alexandria Reads pro-gram began March 27. A featureevent is planned for April 5 withauthor Ann Bausum and the program concludes withan introduction to dog training on May 21.

The series of events also includes book discussions,story times, craft and music programs, a knit-a-thon,a pop-up pup party, a yappy hour and a range oflectures on both canines and local military history.

All Alexandria Reads Returns

With the exception of the April 5 author talk, eventswill take place at various library locations through-out Alexandria.

For program details, visit https://bit.ly/AAR2018.

— Rikki George

Co

urtesy o

f A

lexan

dria Library

Letters to the Editor

From Page 11

Easter SweetsWas that the Easter bunny at OldTown Farmers’ Market in City Hall’sMarket Square on Saturday morningMarch 31? No, it was MaribethNyerges, of Maribeth’s Bakery, sellingcookies and baked goods.


Pho

to

by Laura M

ae Sudder

Decision RevealsCity’s BiasesTo the Editor:

Vice Mayor Wilson’s current newsletter has himagain clouding the issue of his role in approving theKarig development by explaining that he voted infavor of the project because it is “by rights develop-ment” and because Virginia is a Dillon rule state.Such arguments don’t fool readers because they arelargely irrelevant in this case — a red herring. In itszeal to favor the developer’s interests, the city ig-nored its own environmental ordinances, initiatives,and policies; an unprecedented level of quality tes-timony from opponents of the development; andoverrode neighbors’ legitimate concerns about likelydamage to their properties.

If (as Wilson says) the City Council did not havethe power to turn down the proposed Karig plan,there would have been no need for a public hear-ing. Moreover, Wilson himself in a Nov. 6, 2017 emailstated, “obviously there were a bunch of process fail-ures within the city side and the applicants side.”

Wilson and all council members but MayorSilberberg voted not to remand the flawed Karig planback to Planning and Zoning for appropriate over-haul. Mayor Silberberg, in stark contrast, followedthe right course of action and dissented from therest of the council’s decision. Not only has MayorSilberberg been consistently engaged on the impor-tant issues in Alexandria, as witnessed by her qual-ity voting record, but in the Karig hearing she rec-ognized two major errors the city had made: Plan-ning and Zoning should have chosen the 57-footsetback from Seminary Road instead of the 104-footsetback and Transportation and Environmental Ser-vices was wrong to insist that no intermittent streamexists on the property (despite TES staff, city envi-ronmental staff, professional geoscientists, a 2004Open Space Committee report, and others’ reportsto the contrary).

All but Silberberg made no effort to ensure statu-tory protections for the existing forest, ravine, andwater resources because they don’t value them. It’s

that simple.Fortunately we have a choice this spring to vote

for Mayor Silberberg, and for two other promisingcandidates as well, Robert Ray and Matthew Feely.Perhaps with more balanced views on the council wewill begin to see improvement in the way things aredone in Alexandria.

Nina Schwartz, C. Dara,Katy Cannady, Jimm Roberts, Cynthia Evans, Kathy Burns,

Bonnie Petry, Joan and Denis O’Toole,and Robert and Suzanne McLaughlin


Entertainment

By Hope Nelson

The weather is slowly warming up inAlexandria, day by day, and with thatcomes more activity — cherry blos-soms in bloom, sports teams gearing

up for spring and a heavy docket of food-and-drinkevents to carry hungry diners through it all. Hereare some of the month’s top picks around town.

Vola’s Oysterfest, April 7Start spring off with a passel of oysters down

on the water at Vola’s Dockside Grill. Go raw withsome fresh-shucked oysters or tastethe fried and broiled varieties, plusoyster stew and some wine or beerto wash it all down. 101 N. Union

St. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tickets $84.24.

Ben and Jerry’s Free Cone Day, April 10Free ice cream? What’s not to love? Celebrate

the beloved Vermont-based creamery’s anniversarywith a free handout of their mainstay product.And come prepared to make some tough decisions:Despite the celebration’s name, visitors can choosea cone or a cup … and name their favorite flavor.But bring some patience: The lines are often outthe door. 103 S. Union St. Noon-8 p.m.

Cocktails and Correspondence at TheHour, April 11

April is National Letter Writing Month, and sta-tionery shop Penny Post has teamed up with cock-tail-party purveyor The Hour to spark some cre-ativity and reconnect loved ones via the writtenword. In support of the national #Write_On cam-paign, Penny Post is asking would-be writers tocommit to posting 30 letters in 30 days. Learnsome new cocktail recipes and put pen to paperwhile you’re at it. 1015 King St. 6:30-8:30 p.m.$20.

Chocolate Through Time at Lee-FendallHouse, April 14

Learn about chocolate’s sweet (and sometimes

unsavory) past with food historian Joyce Whiteat one of Alexandria’s historic homes. From theindustrialization of the chocolate market to thesweet treat’s cultural significance throughout time,the cocoa-based confection has a lengthybackstory. Stick around to taste some chocolate-based recipes. 614 Oronoco St. 2-4 p.m. Tickets$15 in advance, $20 at the door.

Carpenter’s Cook-Off, April 22Carpenter’s Shelter takes over The Birchmere

for a good – and filling – cause. Take part in theshelter’s largest fundraiser of the year and diveheadfirst into delicacies from more than 20 arearestaurants. Taste special dishes from the likes ofStomping Ground, Hard Times, Dishes of Indiaand Sugar Shack – among many more – and helpthe shelter achieve its financial goals in the pro-cess. 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Noon-3 p.m. Tick-ets $100 for VIP, $50 for adults, $20 for kids 12and under.

Murder Mystery Dinner at the CarlyleClub, April 22

Join the Carlyle Club for a night of murder andmayhem – and dinner – at their “A Murderous Mat-rimony” evening. Put on by the Michael MurderMystery Players, the 90-minute show features thenuptials of Marsha and Billy Bob, complete withplenty of dysfunction. 2050 Ballenger Ave. 6 p.m.Tickets $25.

Schlafly Beer Dinner at StompingGround, April 24

The Southern outpost in the heart of Del Ray ispairing some good Midwestern beer with fivecourses of down-home cooking and invites you tobe a part of it. Schlafly’s founding brewer, StephenHale, will be in attendance to guide diners throughthe evening’s pairings. 2309 Mount Vernon Ave.7-10 p.m. Tickets $65.

7 Dates to Circle in April

Appetite

Hope Nelson owns and operates the Kitchen Recessionistablog, located at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her anytime at [email protected].

Submit entertainment announcementsat www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal-endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday.Photos/artwork encouraged.

ONGOING“Parallel Lives.” Various times,

through April 15, at the Athenaeum,201 Prince St. In Parallel Livestranscultural humanity is on display.Curated by Brigitte Reyes, five artists(Antonius Bui, Amy Chan, NekishaDurrett, Muriel Hasbun, and JeffHuntington) bridging diversecultures and aesthetic traditionsembrace and explore their place inthe world. visit www.nvfaa.org orcall 703-548-0035.

Art Exhibit: Renewal. Through April15, gallery hours at Potomac FiberArts Gallery, Torpedo Factory ArtCenter, Studio 29, 105 North UnionSt. Gallery artists producing themedwork may draw on any aspect of“renewal” for inspiration. This showwill highlight the work of galleryartists Debra Lee, Cheryl Roesel, andJulia Stephens. visitwww.Potomacfiberartsgallery.com orcall 703-548-0935.

Art Exhibit: Beasts BeyondBoundaries. Through April 29,daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursdays until9 p.m. at Scope Gallery, 105 NorthUnion St., ground floor Studio 19 of

the Torpedo Factory Art Center. KilnClub artists highlight “Beasts BeyondBoundaries: Cultural Creature-centricConnections,” corralling critters ongallery shelves. Call 703-548-6288 orvisit www.scopegallery.org.

Art Exhibit A Study of Manhattan.Through May 6, gallery hours at theArt League Gallery, 105 North UnionSt., Studio 21, in the TorpedoFactory. Paintings by Robert Gilbert:A Study of Manhattan: Power,Dominance, and Excitement.Opening Reception takes placeThursday, April 12, 6:30-8 p.m. Visitwww.theartleague.org or call 703-683-1780.

Art Exhibit: 2018 EmergingArtists. Through May 20, daily 10a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursday until 9 p.m. atTarget Gallery at the TorpedoFactory, 105 North Union St., Studio2. Target Gallery, the contemporaryexhibition space of the TorpedoFactory Art Center, introduces a newannual exhibition series featuring thework of emerging artists of the D.C.,Maryland, and Virginia region. Thisinaugural year’s exhibition featuresthe work of Katie Barrie, RonaldJackson, Hollis McCracken, and HollyTrout. Visit torpedofactory.org/partners/target-gallery.

Pick-Up Hockey. Ongoing,Wednesdays and Fridays 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at Mount Vernon Ice Skating,

2017 Belle View Blvd. Play hockeywith other hockey buffs, hitting slapshots and learning puck handlingskills that the pros use. Players musthave full equipment. 16 and older.visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/mtvernon/ or call 703-768-3224.

THURSDAY/APRIL 5Local Author Thursday. 5-7 p.m. at

The Old Town Shop, 105 SouthUnion St. Book signing by CraigRoach, “Simply Electrifying: TheTechnology that Transformed theWorld, from Benjamin Franklin toElon Musk.” Light refreshments. Call703-684-4682 or visitwww.TheOldTownShop.com.

Author Talk with Ann Bausum. 7p.m. at the Nannie J. Lee Center,1108 Jefferson St., Alexandria. Free.The author of Sergeant Stubby willread from her books as part of AllAlexandria Reads, facilitated by theAlexandria Library. Call 703-746-5405.

Ain’t Nobody More Surprised. 7p.m. at The Athenaeum, 201 PrinceSt., Alexandria. By Spoken WordArtist 13 of Nazareth. In the form of

storytelling, poetry, and verse,spoken word artist 13 of Nazarethshares observations and experiencesgathered along the road of a life.Free. Call 703-548-0035 or visit thewebsite at www.nvfaa.org.

FRIDAY/APRIL 6Fools’ Day Merriment. 6-8:30 p.m.

at Durant Arts Center, 1605 CameronSt., Alexandria. Wear crazy hats andclothes to celebrate April Fools’ Day.The Alexandria Singers will be onhand to teach juggling. The MobileArt Lab will be on hand to leadinteractive art activities. $9 perperson. Children must beaccompanied by one adult. Topurchase tickets, visit tiny.cc/yhysry.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY/APRIL 6-15Architecture at its Best: An Exhibit

of Projects by Local Architects.At the Torpedo Factory Art Center,105 North Union St. Visit theTorpedo Factory to view an exhibit ofwinning projects from AIA NorthernVirginia’s Design Awards Program, ondisplay in the ground floor lobby.

This event, co-hosted by the TorpedoFactory, is offered in celebration ofAIA Northern Virginia ArchitectureWeek. Admission to both the TorpedoFactory and the exhibit are free andopen to the public. Visit aianova.org/architectureweek.php.

APRIL 6-29Art Exhibit: A Touch of Magic.

Gallery hours at Del Ray ArtisansGallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave. DelRay Artisans “A Touch of Magic”exhibit is inspired by the subtle,simple, complex, or bold magic thatcreates life’s special moments,fulfilled dreams, rare experiences,and fosters the recognition of beauty.Opening Reception is Friday, April 6,7-9 p.m. Visitwww.DelRayArtisans.org.

SATURDAY/APRIL 7Spring Cleaning in the Parks. 9-

11:30 a.m. at 10 different FairfaxCounty parks: Cub Run RECenter,Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, HiddenOaks Nature Center at RoundtreePark, Hidden Pond Nature Center,

“A Touch of Magic” by Veronica Barker-Barzel.

A Touch of MagicDel Ray Artisans “A Touch of Magic” exhibit is inspired by the subtle, simple,

complex, or bold magic that creates life’s special moments, fulfilled dreams, rareexperiences, and fosters the recognition of beauty. The art will be on display fromApril 6-29, gallery hours at Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave.Opening Reception is Friday, April 6, 7-9 p.m. Visit www.DelRayArtisans.org.

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Entertainment

Huntley Meadows Park, Lake AccotinkPark, Lake Fairfax Park,RiverbendPark, Scott’s Run Nature Preserve,and Sully Historic Site. More than750 volunteers will join the FairfaxCounty Park Authority and TheNature Conservancy for annual“spring cleaning” efforts to kickoffEarth Month. The volunteers willremove trash and debris, while alsoassisting scientists andconservationists by recording dataabout what they remove. Visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/.

Garden Gate Plant Shop Reopens.9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Green SpringGardens, 4603 Green Spring Road,Alexandria. You will find shrubs,native plants, wildflowers,ornamental grasses and unusualperennials and annuals. All proceedsfrom the shop benefit the gardens atGreen Spring. Friends of GreenSpring (FROGS) receive a 10 percentdiscount. Call 703-642-5173 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/green-spring/shops.

Playwriting for Young AudiencesWorkshop. 9 a.m.-noon at NationalArt Education Association, 901 PrinceSt., Alexandria. Guest playwrightMartha King DeSilva will discusswriting and developing new plays foryounger audiences. Registration fee:$45; early bird fee $35 (before March30). [email protected] forregistration information.

The “Grandest Congress” – TheFrench and Indian War inAlexandria. 12-4 p.m. at CarlyleHouse Historic Park, 121 N. FairfaxSt., Alexandria. Free. Visitors to theCarlyle House will experience Maj.Gen. Edward Braddock’s visit thereand the French and Indian Warfirsthand through costumedinterpreters. Visit

www.novaparks.com or call 703-549-2997.

Horse and Carriage Re-Enactment.Noon at George Washington’s MountVernon Estate. Horse and CarriageRe-enactment with Col. Washingtonand his bride. Experience thereenactment of Colonel and MarthaWashington’s 1759 arrival to theestate in a horse-drawn carriage.Included in admission. Visitwww.mountvernon.org/arrival.

50-Year Tribute to Rev. Dr. Martin

Luther King, Jr. 2 p.m. atBethlehem Baptist Church, 7836Fordson Road. To remember the 50thanniversary of Dr. Martin LutherKing’s death on April 4, 1968, a localcoalition of faith communities andnonprofits, Ventures in Community(VIC), will sponsor a tribute to him.An informal cookie-and-punchreception will follow. The event isfree and open to all. Visitwww.bethlehemofalexandria.org.

Country-Western Dance Lessons.

6-7 p.m. at Lincolnia Senior Center,4710 North Chambliss St.,Alexandria. Open dancing 7-9:30p.m. with a DJ who provides music.Admission for NVCWDA members$10; non-members $12; childrenunder 18 accompanied by a payingadult $5. Smoke-free, alcohol-free.BYO refreshments. Visitwww.nvcwda.org.

Alexandria Symphony. 8 p.m. atSchlesinger Concert Hall and ArtsCenter, 4915 E. Campus Drive,

Alexandria. Nicholas Hersh’s programfocuses on contrasting styles,featuring Johannes Brahms’Symphony No. 2 in D Major, C.P.E.Bach’s Symphony in E-Flat Major andAstor Piazzolla’s Tangazo: Variationson Buenos Aires. Tickets are $20-$80/adults. visit www.alexsym.org orcall 703-548-0885.

SUNDAY/APRIL 8Bagels and Bach Concert. 11 a.m.-1

p.m. at Durant Arts Center, 1605Cameron St., Alexandria. Enjoyclassical music, learn how toappreciate classical music, and betreated to a light brunch. FeaturesLow Brass Orchestral Highlights(featuring excerpts from works byWagner, Mozart, Schumann, Mahler,Berlioz, Hindemith and more.).Featured musicians will be: TylerCastrucci and Stephen Omelsky,tenor trombone; and Adam Stokes,bass trombone. Tickets are $9 perperson; children under 5 are free.Reserve tickets at tiny.cc/yhysry orvisit www.alexandriava.gov/Arts.

Alexandria Symphony. 3 p.m. atGeorge Washington MasonicMemorial, 101 Callahan Drive,Alexandria. Nicholas Hersh’s programfocuses on contrasting styles,featuring Johannes Brahms’Symphony No. 2 in D Major, C.P.E.Bach’s Symphony in E-Flat Major andAstor Piazzolla’s Tangazo: Variationson Buenos Aires. Tickets are $20-$80/adults. visit www.alexsym.org orcall 703-548-0885.

Walking Tour of Historic OldTown Alexandria. 1-3 p.m. Led bymembers of AIA’s Historic ResourcesCommittee, the tour covers thehistory of Alexandria as reflectedthrough its architecture and urban

Alexandria Symphony OrchestraGuest Conductor Nicholas Hersh’s program focuses on contrasting styles, featuring Johannes Brahms’ Symphony No. 2 in

D Major, C.P.E. Bach’s Symphony in E-Flat Major and Astor Piazzolla’s Tangazo: Variations on Buenos Aires. Saturday, April7, 8 p.m. at Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 4915 E. Campus Drive; Sunday, April 8, 3 p.m. at George WashingtonMasonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive. Tickets are $20-$80. Visit www.alexsym.org or call 703-548-0885.

Nicholas HershThe Alexandria Symphony Orchestra at the Rachel M.Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center.


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Entertainment

design, highlighting examples fromGeorgian to Art Deco. This event isoffered in celebration of VirginiaArchitecture Week. $10 per person.Tour is open to the public, but spaceis limited and advance reservationsare required. Visit aianova.org/architectureweek.php.

WIA Lecture Series: Architecture,Design and Cultural Space.6:30-8:30 p.m. at the TorpedoFactory, 105 North Union St. Co-hosted by the Torpedo Factory andoffered as part of VirginiaArchitecture Week and the 2018Women in Architecture LectureSeries. Three panelists, RonitEisenbach, Philippa Hughes andKhara James, will share theirexperiences with the design ofvarious cultural spaces. Informationabout the panelists is available here.Reception at 6:30, followed by thepanel at 7:30. $12 AIA members,Torpedo Factory members, tenantartists and Factory Society members;$10 students; $20 non-members.Visit aianova.org/architectureweek.php.

MONDAY/APRIL 9On the Boards – Cleveland Park

Library. 6:30-8 p.m. at VirginiaTech’s Washington-AlexandriaArchitecture Center, 1001 Prince St.This event is offered in celebration ofVirginia Architecture Week. Students,architects and the public are invitedto join staff from Perkins Eastman asthey discuss their design for the newCleveland Park Library inWashington, D.C. Free. Noregistration needed. Reception tofollow presentation. Visitaianova.org/architectureweek.php.

Ballroom Dance Classes. 7 p.m. atThe Athenaeum, 201 Prince St.,Alexandria. Led by Gary Stephans,ballroom dance instructor. Learn theFox Trot, Waltz, Tango, Swing, Salsa,Merengue, Rumba, Cha-Cha andSamba. No partner needed. Cost is$30/person; $55/couple. [email protected] or 703-505-5998.

MONDAY-SUNDAY/APRIL 9-15Architecture Week Book Displays.

Displays of architecture-themedbooks for all ages will be featured atparticipating area public libraries.Free and open to the public. Thisevent is offered as part of VirginiaArchitecture Week. Visit aianova.org/architectureweek.php.

TUESDAY/APRIL 10Living Legends Portraits

Reception. 5-6:30 p.m. at MarketSquare Lobby, Sisters Cities Room#1101, City Hall, 301 King St.,Alexandria. The room is located onthe first floor of City Hall by theCameron Street entrance. Prior toand following opening remarks byCity officials and board PresidentJennifer Ayers, a video compilationwill show the interviews with each ofthis year’s honored Legends.

Virtual Reality Demonstrations.6:30-8 p.m. at the Durant RecreationCenter, 1605 Cameron St. This eventis offered in celebration of VirginiaArchitecture Week. Join localarchitects for a night of virtual realitydemonstrations during ArchitectureWeek, featuring designwalkthroughs, historic virtual tours,360˚ Photography, and more.Organized by AIA Northern VirginiaYoung Architects Forum and the DCVirtual Reality Meetup, this event isoffered free of charge and is open tothe public. Visit aianova.org/architectureweek.php.

WEDNESDAY/APRIL 11Architecture’s Relevance

Revolution. 7-8 p.m. at The Beatley

Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Incelebration of Virginia ArchitectureWeek, Carl Elefante, FAIA, 2018President of the American Institute ofArchitects, will speak aboutenvironment concerns and howarchitecture can make a difference. Areception will follow thepresentation. $10 (AIA NOVA 360Mentoring participants are free.)Reservations are requested; onsiteregistration available. Free parking.Visit aianova.org/architectureweek.php.

THURSDAY/APRIL 12Days of Remembrance. Noon at

Market Square, 301 King St.,Alexandria. Alexandria City Councilhosts the annual ceremony incommemoration of the national Daysof Remembrance, April 8-15. Thespeaker will be Irene Weiss, asurvivor of the Auschwitz-Birkenauconcentration camp. The event is freeand open to the public. In case ofinclement weather, the ceremony willbe held in the Vola Lawson Lobby onthe first floor of City Hall.

Kick Off Charity Dinner. 6 p.m. atMurphy’s Irish Pub of Alexandria,713 King St., Alexandria. For the OneStep at a Time 20M/20K/5K Run/Walk to raise money and awarenessfor veteran suicide and homelessness.The race on April 14 at 8 a.m. will beheld at Prince William Forest Park inDumfries. Register for the dinner at:www.classy.org/alexandria/events/murphys-alexandria-one-step-at-time-charity-dinner/e170153 Register forthe run at: www.classy.org/event/one-step-at-a-time/e162158

Opening Reception. 6:30-8 p.m. atthe Art League Gallery, 105 NorthUnion St., Studio 21, in the TorpedoFactory. Paintings by Robert Gilbert:A Study of Manhattan: Power,Dominance, and Excitement runsApril 4-May 6, 2018. Visitwww.theartleague.org or call 703-683-1780.

30 Years of Shaping the City. 6:30p.m. wine and cheese reception; 7p.m. program at The Athenaeum, 201Prince St., Alexandria. In 1984, TheWashington Post began publishing aweekly column called “Shaping theCity.” Written and illustrated byRoger K. Lewis, FAIA, the columnaddresses a broad range of topics andissues relevant to the builtenvironment, among themarchitecture, historic preservation,housing, smart growth, sustainability,transportation, and urbanism. RSVPat [email protected].

Earth Care Forum. 7-9 p.m. atFairlington Presbyterian Church,3846 King St., Alexandria. Learn howto better care for your property. Hearfrom Audubon at HomeAmbassadors, Earth Sangha, andlocal groups that have taken onprojects to compost and create

monarch way stations. Visitwww.fpcusa.org/welcome.

Center for Alexandria’s ChildrenGala. 7-10 p.m. at the new OldDominion Boat Club “ODBC”Clubhouse, 200 Strand St.,Alexandria. Cost is $175 each. Abenefit to raise funds for the City’sprimary resource for the prevention,investigation, and treatment of childabuse. Support critical programs thatbuild strong families and keepchildren safe. visit the website atwww.centerforalexandriaschildren.org.

Natural Discoveries: A FirsthandAccount of Citizen Science.7:30-9 p.m. at Green Spring Gardens,4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria.Talk by Jim Waggener, a naturalistwho organized the public campaignthat led to creation of Occoquan BayNational Wildlife Refuge. Visitvnps.org/potowmack/events.

APRIL 12-28“Outside the Lines.” Play

performances at 10, 10:30 and 11:30a.m. at The Lab at Convergence,1819 N. Quaker Lane, Alexandria.Tickets are $9. The story is about twopen pals, Bud and Vi, who brighteneach other’s lives from afar. Bud livesin a straight-line world of tall, tallbuildings. Vi lives in a curvy-lineworld of rolly, rolly hills. Bud and Vihave never met, but they create aworld together by exchanginglines...through the mail. Purchasetickets at:www.artsonthehorizon.org/outside-the-lines.html.

FRIDAY/APRIL 13Cocktails by Candlelight. 6-9 p.m. at

George Mason’s Gunston Hall, 10709Gunston Road, Mason Neck. Sip onperiod cocktails and learn to make18th century mixed drinks andsnacks; enjoy a candlelight tour ofGeorge Mason’s historic home.Tickets are $35/$25; sold online atbit.ly/2Bd5ilY. Contact Mary KristenCraver at 703-550-9220 ext. 240 [email protected].

The Georgetown Saxatones. 6:30p.m. wine and cheese reception; 7p.m. program at The Athenaeum, 201Prince St., Alexandria. Tickets $15.The Georgetown UniversitySaxatones’ repertoire includeseverything from alternative to pop tosoul. Proceeds to benefit theSaxatones’ charity, The JohnMcNicholas Pediatric Brain TumorFoundation. Buy tickets atwww.nvfaa.org/events/.

Opening Reception: 2018Emerging Artists. 7-9 p.m.; artisttalk at 7:30 p.m. at Target Gallery atthe Torpedo Factory, 105 NorthUnion St., Studio 2. Target Gallery,the contemporary exhibition space ofthe Torpedo Factory Art Center,introduces a new annual exhibition

Ain’t Nobody MoreSurprised.

By Spoken Word Artist 13 ofNazareth. In the form of storytelling,poetry, and verse, spoken word artist 13of Nazareth shares observations andexperiences gathered along the road ofa life which has lasted longer than heexpected. Thursday, April 5, 7 p.m. atThe Athenaeum, 201 Prince St., Alexan-dria. Free. Call 703-548-0035 or visitthe website at www.nvfaa.org.

13 of Nazareth


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series featuring the work of emergingartists of the D.C., Maryland, andVirginia region. This inaugural year’sexhibition features the work of KatieBarrie, Ronald Jackson, HollisMcCracken, and Holly Trout. Visittorpedofactory.org/partners/target-gallery.

Scrap City - Family Activities. 7-9:30p.m. at the Torpedo Factory ArtCenter, 105 North Union St. This eventis offered in celebration of VirginiaArchitecture Week. Architects fromAIA Northern Virginia will be be onhand to help participants design andbuild a “Scrap City.” Families areencouraged to stop and participate.Reservations are not required. Visitaianova.org/architectureweek.php.

APRIL 13-14Spring Garden Market. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

at River Farm, 7931 E. BoulevardDrive, Alexandria. More than 40vendors will offer plants, vegetableseedlings, natives and pollinatorfavorites. Parking is $10 (cash only)per car; waived for AHS membersshowing a current membership card orother proof of membership such as anonline receipt. Call 703-768-5700 orvisit www.ahsgardening.org/gardenmarket.

APRIL 13-29“I Did It My Way in Yiddish (in

English).” 8 p.m. at MetroStage,1201 N. Royal St., Alexandria. A playwritten and performed by Deb Filler,an internationally acclaimedCanadian/New Zealand Jewish comic,musician and writer. visitwww.metrostage.org.

SATURDAY/APRIL 14The Old Dominion Boat Club Tour.

9-10 a.m. at 200 Strand St. This tour,led by Michael Winstanley, AIA, withMichael Winstanley Architects &Planners, the architects for the project,will explore the new three-story OldDominion Boat Club (ODBC)completed in late 2017. This event isoffered in celebration of VirginiaArchitecture Week. $10. Attendance islimited and advance reservations arerequired. Visit aianova.org/architectureweek.php.

Sympatico Concert. 10-11 a.m. at CityHall, 301 King St., Alexandria. Duringthe Farmers Market, AlexandriaSymphony Orchestra’s Sympaticoperforms. In partnership with ColdwellBanker’s Alexandria office. Visitwww.asosympatico.com orwww.alexsym.org.

Skyline Yoga. 10-11 a.m. at 2311Wilson Blvd., Rooftop Terrace. Enjoy afree yoga class with local architects inan architecturally inspiring place withsweeping views of the metro area.Organized by the AIA NorthernVirginia Young Architects Forum, this

event is free and open to the public.Please bring a yoga mat. Visitaianova.org/architectureweek.php.

“Riding with George” Java JoltLecture. 10 a.m.-noon at theAlexandria Archaeology Museum,105 North Union St., #327,Alexandria. Free. Philip Smucker willdiscuss his new book, “Riding withGeorge: Sportsmanship & Chivalry inthe Making of America’s FirstPresident.” Reservations required.Email [email protected] call 703-746-4399.

Architecture Scavenger Hunt forChildren. 11 a.m.-1 p.m., begins atthe AIA Northern Virginia ChapterHouse, 1101 Duke St. A fun self-guided activity for children and theirfamilies, organized by ourArchitecture Lab Committee. Start bychecking in at the Chapter House.There participants will receive a mapidentifying 12 places that aresynonymous with Old TownAlexandria. After completion of theactivity, bring the map to theTorpedo Factory to receive a smallprize. Children must be accompaniedby an adult to participate. Free event,but pre-registration is required. Visit

aianova.org/architectureweek.php.Huntley’s Discovery Day. 1-4 p.m. at

Huntley Meadows Park, 6918Harrison Lane, Alexandria. Free.Sleuth through documents, maps,artifacts, and architecture to discoverwhich Founding Father once ownedHuntley Meadows Park. Discover thehidden history of Historic Huntley bymaking (and tasting) homemadebutter or cranking fresh ice cream.Call 703-768-2525 or visitwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley-meadows-park/.

The U.S. Air Force Strings. 1:30p.m. at The Athenaeum, 201 PrinceSt., Alexandria. Free. Sixteen pieceswill join in an afternoon for atraditional orchestra and strollingsegment. To RSVP, [email protected].

Discovery Day. 1-4 p.m. at HistoricHuntley, 6918 Harrison Lane,Alexandria. $5 donation. Enjoyactivities for the whole family whilediscovering how this 19th century villachanged over time: sleuth throughHuntley photos, maps and artifacts;tour the federal-style house;participate in old-time Huntleyactivities such as ice cream- and

butter-making. Call 703 768-2525.“Chocolate Through Time.” 2 p.m.

at Lee-Fendall House, 614 OronocoSt., Alexandria. An interactivepresentation led by food historianJoyce White will focus on howchocolate has changed through time.The presentation will be followed bya chance to taste an assortment ofchocolate recipes. Tickets are $15through museum’s website; $20 dayof program. Visit leefendallhouse.orgor call 703-548-1789.

WeLive Crystal City. 2-3 p.m. at 2221South Clark St., #413, Arlington.WeLive Crystal City, opened in 2016,is a co-living residence withfurnished living spaces and commonareas to provide shared community,work and social spaces. PerkinsEastman, the project Architect ofRecord, transformed a 1960s CrystalCity office building into a co-living,micro-unit residential building, partof the shared workspace providerWeWork. Tenant amenities includemedia lounges, a library, professionalkitchens, co-working space, alaundry-arcade, yoga studio and acourtyard with tables and grills. Free.Register to ensure space. Visitaianova.org/architectureweek.php.

Writing Training. 2:15-4:15 p.m. atEllen Coolidge Burke Branch Library,4701 Seminary Road, Alexandria.Learn how to write a letter to theeditor. Bring an article about an issuethat’s important to you. ContactStephanie Burns [email protected].

Firm Tour – Winstanley Architects& Planners. 3-4 p.m. at WinstanleyArchitects & Planners, 107 NorthWest St. Tour an architecture firmlocated in a renovated warehouse,see impressive architectural modelsfor projects worldwide and learnabout the firm’s award winningPotomac Transportation FrameworkPlan. The tour is free andreservations are not necessary. Visitaianova.org/architectureweek.php.

UCM Spring Gala. 6 p.m. at U.S.Patent & Trademark Office, MadisonBuilding Atrium, 600 Dulany St., OldTown Alexandria. Join UnitedCommunity Ministries for a specialevent of celebration, benefiting localfamilies in need. Event emcee isNBC4 News 4 Anchor, Adam Tuss.Bruce and Joanne Malkin will behonored with the Gerald W. HylandHumanitarian Award. Tickets $200per person; $140 under age 40.Sponsorships starting at $500 stillavailable, including seats andpublicity. Details at ucmagency.orgor email [email protected].

Springtime in Paris Ball. 7-10:30p.m. at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum,134 N. Royal St., Alexandria. Cost is$150. Enjoy a “joie de vivre”atmosphere with music by DocScantlin and Chou Chou. Frenchcuisine, libations and silent auction.visit www.gadsbytavernmuseum.us.

Contact Kay Zerwick, Ball Co-Chair [email protected].

Gatsby’s Speakeasy. 8:30 p.m. atWestin Hotel, 400 CourthouseSquare, Alexandria. Sponsored by theOrchestra League of Alexandria(SOLA) to benefit the AlexandriaSymphony Orchestra. Ticket pricesrange from $50 for the 8:30 p.m.opening (includes casino, bourbontasting, signature cocktail (2),dancing, live music.) to full accessfrom $200 per person to $5,000 for atable for 10, which begins with thePatron’s Reception. visitwww.501auctions.com/sola.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY/APRIL 14-15Annual Daffodil Show. Saturday, 2-7

p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. atThe Alexandria Scottish Rite Temple,1430 West Braddock Road, Showfeatures different daffodil forms andcolors including trumpet, large-cup,small-cup, double, split-cup, andminiature. Show also includes adesign category and a multi-categoryphotography contest, withphotographs to feature daffodils.Free. Visitwww.thewashingtondaffodilsociety.org.

SUNDAY/APRIL 15Parallel Lives Gallery Talk. 2 p.m.

at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St.,Alexandria. Free. Join a Gallery Talkwith the artists in Parallel Lives andexhibition curator Brigitte Reyes. Thetalk will be moderated by LauraRoulet, independent curator. Call703-548-0035 or visitwww.nvfaa.org.

Jazz at Meade Concert. 4-6 p.m. at322 N. Alfred St., Alexandria.Featuring jazz saxophonist MarshallKeys at Meade Memorial EpiscopalChurch. Suggested $20 donation forjazz and buffet. Visitwww.meadechurch.org or [email protected].

Metropolitan School of Arts’Annual Showcase. 5 p.m. at ErnstCommunity Cultural Center, 8333Little River Turnpike, Annandale.Alexandria’s Metropolitan School ofthe Arts Performing Arts Academy ishosting its Anniversary AnnualShowcase, 10Plus 1, an innovativechoreography of MSA students in tap,jazz, contemporary and hip-hop. $20per person. Go tometropolitanarts.org to purchase.

TUESDAY/APRIL 17FamilySearch.org Changes. 1-3 p.m.

at Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500Shenandoah Road, Alexandria. Free.Mount Vernon Genealogical Society’sCarol Kostakos Petranek will discussrecent changes to FamilySearch.org,the world’s largest free family historywebsite. Visit mvgenealogy.org orcall 703-768-4101.

Metropolitan School of the Arts students to perform forAnnual Showcase: 10Plus1 at the Ernst Community Cul-tural Center.

Metropolitan School of Arts’Annual Showcase

Metropolitan School of the Arts Performing Arts Academy is hosting its Anniver-sary Annual Showcase, 10Plus 1, an innovative choreography of MSA students intap, jazz, contemporary and hip-hop. Tickets are $20 per person. Sunday, April 15,5 p.m. at Ernst Community Cultural Center, 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale.Visit www.metropolitanarts.org.

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Sports

The 34th Annual GeorgeWashington ParkwayClassic presented byJillian Keck Hogan

Group - McEnearney Associatestakes place on Sunday, April 22.Alexandria’s hometown destina-tion centric race is presented bylocal apparel and race manage-ment company Pacers Runningand draws over 8,000 runners andspectators throughout the regionand beyond.

The GeorgeWashington Park-way Classic starts atthe Mount VernonEstate and takesrunners down thetree-lined name-sake parkway toanother of George’sdestinations — OldTown Alexandria.The event featurestwo distances tochoose from (10Miler or 5K) as wellas a Sugar ShackKids Dash, and aFinish Festival withlive music, Port CityBrewing Company pop-up beergarden, a kids zone, a post racestretch zone provided byProRehab, and other activities.Runners are treated to a cold brewfrom Port City Brewing Companyand a taco from District Taco whenthey cross the finish line. This year,the race will have the WashingtonNationals Racing President GeorgeWashington at the finish linecheering runners and celebratingat the Finish Festival.

Several Alexandria businessesand city organizations are offeringa variety of activities and promo-tional specials for runners, spec-tators, family and friends to cel-ebrate and support the race:

❖ Watch in style on Union Streetat Hotel Indigo. The Hotel IndigoOld Town will serve as a spectatorlounge and poster-making stationon the morning of the GW Park-way Classic, offering rose andprosecco Chambong “morninghappy hour” specials, mini “Sun-rise on the go” biscuit sandwicheswith bacon egg and cheddar, aswell as some other light brunchbites.

❖ Visit Alexandria ‘Make It AClassic Weekend’ Travel Packages:Parkway Classic runners andguests can stay overnight and take

advantage of a Parkway Classichotel package. Visit Alexandria hasmore than a dozen participatinghotels and 20-plus restaurants of-fering carbo-loading menus forSaturday night and a post-racebrunch on Sunday.

❖ Old Town Boutique DistrictFashion Pass entitles runners to 15percent off one item in any OTBDmember store and can be usedfrom April 6-May 6, 2018.

❖ AR Workshop Alexandria:Runners are encouraged to stop byAR Workshop’s booth at the Fin-ish Festival to make a complimen-tary mini wood sign/race me-mento while supplies last.❖ Alexandria Restaurant Partners:Join ARP to refuel post-race withcarbs, protein, and a beer. Runnersget their first draft beer for a rockbottom special. Offer good on Sun-day, April 22 only and at the fol-lowing participating restaurantsLena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap,The Majestic, Mia’s Italian Kitchen,Palette 22, Virtue Feed & Grain,and Vola’s Dockside Grill. Not validwith any other discount or promo-tion.

❖ Lagers for Joggers Post RaceRecovery at Union Street PublicHouse: After the Finish Festivalwraps, runners and their familiescan enjoy “Lager’s for Jogger’s’Post Race “Recovery” specials.Doors open at 10 a.m. with spe-cials extending all afternoon.

For registration information,race route details and event dayactivities, visitwww.runpacers.com/race/park-way-classic/.Race starts at 8 a.m.,April 22 at Mount Vernon Estate.Cost is $78-10 Miler, $48-5K, $10-Sugar Shack Kids Dash.

THROUGH APRIL 14Tax Assistance. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-

noon; Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. atDepartment of Community & HumanServices, 2525 Mt. Vernon Ave., (Mt.Ida side door). Eligible: individualswith income up to $35,000 andfamilies with income up to $54,000.Free financial counseling andaccessing credit reports may beavailable to interested persons fromthe Virginia Cooperative Extension.Visit www.alexandriava.gov/DCHSfor eligibility and requireddocuments.

THURSDAY/APRIL 5DASH Meeting on Fare Change.

6:30-7:30 p.m. at Mt. Vernon RecCenter, 2701 Commonwealth Ave.,Alexandria. DASH is gatheringcommunity input on several proposedfare and service changes. Thechanges include a fare increase from$1.60 to $1.75, an increase in thecost of the monthly DASH Pass from$40 to $45, a new discounted SeniorSmarTrip fare during off-peakperiods, and a minor reduction inweekday morning King Street Trolleyservice. Visit www.dashbus.com.

Sewer Outfalls Meeting. 7-9 p.m. atAlexandria Renew Enterprises, 1800Limerick St., Alexandria. City ofAlexandria is seeking input on itsLong Term Control Plan update, akey piece of the City’s work toaddress its combined sewer outfalls.Members of the public are invited togive feedback. The City andAlexRenew will present the draftplan and solicit comments andfeedback. Visit alexandriava.gov/CleanWaterways.

Gold Medal WinnersThe Alexandria Titans’ 14 Black team of the Alexandria Titans Volleyball Club tookhome the Gold Medal at the March 10, Maryland Juniors Sportsplex Tournament inJessup, Md. Coaches and players of Titans 14 Black include (from left) Derek Baxter(head coach), Nia Baskin, Maura Munson, Lauren Thiell, Kaitlin Peters, Natalie Keough,Anna Harrington, Dylan Rex and Jeff Klein (assistant coach). Missing from the photoinclude Tess Lundgren, Nellie Hartell, and Addie Fielding.

National ChampionsBishop Ireton swept the Christian Cheerleaders of America’s (CCA) National Champion-ships in Fayetteville, N.C. last month. The varsity cheerleading team has clenched thistitle for the third year in a row. The team took first place in tumbling, and in the LargeVarsity Division in the music and non-music categories offered at the competition. TheCardinals became the National Grand Champions after receiving the highest score outof any division in the National Competition. At the competition, Cardinals Coach AngelaHope-Eskew, the 2012 CCA National Coach of the Year, was recognized for being in theCCA’s Coach’s Hall of Fame.

Bulletin BoardSubmit civic/community announcements at ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar.

Photos and artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two weeks before event.

See Bulletin, Page 28

Register for 34th Annual GeorgeWashington Parkway Classic.

‘Run the George’


Sports

March Madness in AlexandriaAs family and friends gathered around on March 19 to celebrate the athletes of theNannie J. Lee 10 and under girls’ basketball team’s season, in came WNBA Washing-ton Mystic Basketball player Tierra Ruffin-Pratt and retired NBA Basketball PlayerJerrod Mustaf. Ruffin-Pratt and Mustaf asked if the girls wanted their 2017-2018jerseys signed with their autographs, and the girls responded with a loud “Yes!”Coach Oswald and his players were able to take pictures with the two stars as wellas have their PINK basketball officially autographed by them. It’s on display at theNannie J. Lee Center located at 1108 Jefferson St. “If you really want to change theworld you have to inspire young people. That’s how you change the world,” saidMustaf. To volunteer to be a coach/mentor, contact the center at 703-746-5535.

FRIDAY/APRIL 6Scholarship Nomination Deadline.

The National Capital Region Chapterof the National Football Foundationis accepting nominations for their2018 Scholar-Athlete banquet. TheChapter awards five $1,000scholarships annually to deservinghigh school senior scholar athleteswho played high school football.Nominees are evaluated on academicand athletic excellence, as well ascontributions to their school andcommunity. Nomination packets havebeen mailed to each high school headcoach in the National Capital Region.

MONDAY/APRIL 9Opioid Community Action Plan

Meeting. 6:30-8 p.m. at T.C.Williams High School cafeteria, 3330King St., Alexandria. This strategicplanning session will address thelocal impact of the national opioidcrisis, which affects all ages, culturalbackgrounds, income levels andneighborhoods in Alexandria. Visitalexandriava.gov/Opioids.

Meet the Candidates Night. 7:30p.m. at Beverley Hills CommunityUnited Methodist Church, 3512 OldDominion Blvd., Alexandria.Sponsored by the North RidgeCitizens Association. At 7:30 p.m. theNRCA will begin a 1D2 hour businessmeeting and at 8 p.m. the 13candidates will each have a coupleminutes to introduce themselves.Contact Bruce Johnson at 571-238-1548 or [email protected].

From Page 27

Bulletin Board

The T.C. Williams HighSchool Class of 2021announced at the firstregatta of the Spring

2018 season that they intend to bea force on the water, with Froshrowers winning two races, comingin a close second, and contribut-ing to a first place finish withupperclass rowers in a fourth boat.

On Saturday, March 31, TC row-ers traveled two hours north to St.Andrews School in Middleton, Del.for their traditional opening seasonregatta on Noxontown Pond. Whilethis race often features tempera-tures barely above freezing and oc-casionally has been run in snowsqualls, the weather this year wasa relatively balmy 55 degrees withsunny skies and light breezes, of-fering excellent racing conditions.

The Titans’ competitors, in ad-

dition to host St. Andrews, in-cluded rowers from Fairfax’s W.T.Woodson, and Ocean City, Main-

land, and Holy Spirit high schoolsfrom New Jersey.

Setting the pace for the Titans

in the second race of the day wasthe Frosh Women’s 8A boat, whichroared down the 1500-metercourse to finish with a time of5:28.5, more than 10 secondsahead of St. Andrews and 26 sec-onds ahead of third-place HolySpirit. The Frosh Women’s 8A in-cludes rowers Riley Bucholz, LibbyPadilla, Mackenzie Allen, KaitieDennis, Wellesley Snyder, GraceYokitis, Adrienne Carter, and HalleReinholtz, and coxswain CarolineMiles.

In the next event, the TC Men’sFrosh 8 battled evenly down thecourse in what became a two-boatrace with the oarsmen from Main-land. The Titans finished secondwith a time of 5:07.3, just over 3seconds short of the win and 13seconds ahead of number 3 OceanCity.

Immediately after the FroshMen, the TC Women’s Light 8 tookto the water in an event that in-

cluded not only other Light 8boats, but typically stronger Jun-ior 8 and Third 8 boats as well.The TC Light 8 boat features jun-iors Chloe Marsh andºAnna JaneGuynn, sophomores AvaE l k i n s , º F e l i c i t yBrock,ºAlainaºBrowand, LilaArnold,ºand coxswain CandaceGoodman, andºfrosh rowers AnnaHill andºCaroline Surratt. The Ti-tan Lights scored a win in 5:24.2,over 3 seconds ahead of the HolySpirit Third 8s and 10 secondsbetter than St. Andrews Third 8s.

The TC Women’s First 8 re-corded a third-place finish in theirfirst outing of the season with atime of 5:12.1, behind winnerHoly Spirit and second-placeOcean City. The Titan Women’sSecond 8 also placed third in theirrace with a time of 5:16.6, behindWT Woodson and Ocean City.

Racing in a full six-boat field, theTC Frosh Women’s 8B boat se-cured the largest winning marginof the day with a time of 5:44.9,almost 25 seconds ahead of run-ner-up Holy Spirit and roughlyhalf a minute ahead of number 3Mainland. The Titan FroshWomen’s 8B includes rowersGrace Willmore,ºKatie RoseMilone, Maggie Coombs, AnnaliseRoberts, Emily Surratt, EllieNebolsine, Julianne Joven, andJulia Guessford, and coxswainZaida Calix-Tello.

TC’s final win of the day camein the Men’s JV 4+ category,where the Titans entered twoboats and finished first and thirdin the five-boat field with times of5:35.8 and 5:53.9, respectively.The rowers on the Titan’s winningJV4+ include Griff Austin, WillBavin, Adam Elnahas, and CJChidlow, with coxswain Clare Wil-liams.

Next up for the Titan Crew is theWalter Mess Regatta at Occoquanon Saturday, April 7.

Junior Rowers Score Wins for TC at Noxontown RegattaFrosh rowersmake a statementat St. Andrews.

TC Women’s Frosh 8A Boat

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From Page 22

Letters


Keep City‘Walkable’To the Editor:

Several weeks ago, a close friendof mine was walking on a bricksidewalk in Old Town, and fell facefirst on the sidewalk. On severaloccasions, I have also fallen onthese same sidewalks, but thank-fully, never face first. The mostproblematic sidewalks are thosewith tree wells, wherein a tree’sroots grow out to such a degreethat they dislodge the sidewalkbricks, or cause the bricks toloosen. In other parts of town, thesidewalks are not level due to treeroots altering the angle of the con-crete blocks, creating a sizeablegap between these blocks.

In today’s’ climate, pedestriansare often glued to their tele-phones, either taking selfies, websurfing, or texting rather than hav-ing the situational awareness topay close attention to where theywalk. These phone-absorbedpeople are also likely to become“spill victims.”ºNeedless to say, thecity should be more vigilant in theinspection of sidewalks, and im-mediately take the appropriatecorrective action, as it’s very easyto stub one’s toe on one of theseloose bricks.

Another problem is the numer-ous potholes that have been cre-ated during this winter. Althoughthe city’s repaving plan for its 550miles of roads is to pave 50 mileseach year, this may be insufficientfor this year’s crop of potholes.(Hopefully the roads closest toyour home are not scheduled foryear 11!) ºAlthough the potholedilemma is normally solved bycalling the city’s pothole numberto get more immediate attention,the city appears to be totally over-burdened this year, so they needto step up their game, and to dedi-cate more resources to the prob-lem.º Since Alexandria considersitself to be a walkable city for themost part; due diligence is neededto make sure that this activitysafely occurs without undue im-pediments.

Townsend A. “Van” Van FleetAlexandria

A MayorWith InitiativeTo the Editor:

This week marks 50 years sinceDr. Martin Luther King, Jr. wasshot dead at the Lorraine Motel inMemphis. King earned his hard-


Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative forThe Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers.

By KENNETH B. LOURIE

I have not been collecting return-addresslabels for years. I have however, been receiv-ing them for years. Either as thank yous forcharitable contributions made or as induce-ments for charitable contributions yet to bemade. Regardless of the reason, I have hadan ample supply until recently. And they haveserved me well as both a reminder of what Ihave and have not done. And over time, theyhave most definitely served their purpose.Amazingly though, the pages of return-address labels in inventory has been shrinkingof late. Due to some combination of my lackof charitableness as well as a reduction in thenumbers of unsolicited charitable quid proquos (there may be a relationship there).

Let me be clear: I am under no delusionor pressure to respond to these let-ters/requests for money. Just because I receivethem doesn’t mean I must adhere to them.They’re hardly a subpoena nor are they pay-ment for services rendered. They are merelya pre-approach-type solicitation mailed to meat my home offering goods (the labels) forservices (my contribution) not yet rendered.Opening an envelope and reading its con-tents doesn’t make me a partner in their pur-suit of my dollars.

But what exactly is the protocol here?Certainly I can understand keeping and/orusing the return-address labels if I make acontribution, but what if I don’t make a con-tribution? Do I have to throw these perfectlygood return-address labels away? Don’t someof these labels, by their design/content – andultimately by their use by yours truly, indi-rectly support the original sender’s cause?Isn’t their use some kind of tacit paying-itforward-type approval/contribution on mypart? I realize money and/or in-kind contribu-tions likely help more, but is there use by anon-contributor not abuse at all? After all, I’msort of passing the word/keeping their chaingoing, aren’t I?

If all is fair in love and war, certainlythere’s a little wiggle room in the world ofmailing unsolicited inducements to unsus-pecting recipients? I mean, I’m not asking fortrouble here, am I? I’m merely asking forsome understanding and clarification. If whatwas sent to me – not at my request and notas part of a phone conversation securing acommitment, was not my doing, then whyam I responsible for it being done?

Obviously the labels are a convenience forme, and that is worth some amount of moneyand time that now I’m not having to spend.Still, it feels like an intrusion of sorts, amethod to their madness – presumably, butto me a presumption, nevertheless. Andthat’s just a few letters away from an assump-tion, and you all know what is said aboutassuming?

I suppose if you cast a wide enough netyou’re going to catch a few contributors whodon’t find anything fishy about this direct mailprocess and who feel compelled to respondfavorably – so to speak, because a good deedhas been for them. And if a good deed (or a“solid,” to quote Detective AndySipowitz/Dennis Franz from NYPD Blue)deserves another then contributions will bemade and address labels will be affixed.

But after years of receiving these return-address-labels-masquerading-as-solicitations-for-contributions – to a variety of charities,some more well known than others, I don’tfeel the least bit stuck in my decision to usethese return address labels as I see fit. In away, I am the beneficiary of their largess andin turn, they are the beneficiary of my non-cash contribution. It’s sort of a win-win. But Idon’t suppose that was their intention. I sup-pose they wanted more, not less.

Label MePresumptuous

From Page 29

Letters

won reputation by showing up and speak-ing in support of important causes andmovements. And he used his words aroundthose events to set an example and changethe direction of our country for the better.

I want to thank Mayor Allison Silberbergfor also being that kind of leader, a leaderwho shows up. She went to the studentwalk-out at George Mason ElementarySchool on March 14 at the invitation of sev-eral students, including 11-year-old NaomiWadler. On March 24, Mayor Silberberggreeted fellow marchers at the King StreetMetro before the March for Our Lives andthen went with them to the March. By show-ing up and being at the March, she partici-pated in this historic conversation on gunviolence. She also wrote a Resolution,passed unanimously by City Council on Feb.27, which called for Congress and the Vir-ginia General Assembly to “prioritize theprotection of students” and support com-mon sense gun reform laws. It also calledfor local governments to be allowed to en-act common sense gun policies.

Mayor Silberberg has drafted two otherinitiatives, one on ethics and transparencyin local government and a Statement on In-clusiveness, which is now posted all acrossour city. These are not just words but setthe tone for how we move forward as a city,especially after tragic events, such asCharlottesville, or the Parkland shooting inFlorida, or the shooting at Alexandria’sSimpson Field.

Because of her thoughtful leadership,Mayor Silberberg was one of only ninemayors invited by New York City Mayor BillDe Blasio and New Orleans Mayor andPresident of the U.S. Conference of MayorsMitch Landrieu to Gracie Mansion to dis-cuss the importance of equity and inclusive-ness in our country with prominent civilrights leaders. She was also invited last fallto be a lecturer at New Mayors School atHarvard’s John F. Kennedy School of Gov-ernment. She has gone as a representativeof our great city, and represented us well.

Despite a meager salary, Mayor Silberbergoften works 16-18 hours as a more than full-time mayor. She consistently shows up torepresent the city at multiple events day andnight. She is careful, measured, andthoughtful with her words, and this is a veryimportant quality to have in our mayor. Iappreciate that, like MLK, she speaks up andshows up. In addition to tackling many is-sues across the city, Mayor Silberberg hasset a new high bar for leadership in a veryshort time, and for this, she deserves to bere-elected as the Democratic nominee formayor on June 12.

Boyd WalkerAlexandria

WriteThe Gazette Packet welcomes

views on any public issue.Send to:

Letters to the EditorGazette Packet1606 King St.

Alexandria VA 22314Call: 703-917-6444.

By e-mail:[email protected]


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