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Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 5-11, 2017 ❖ 1www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

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January 5, 2017Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A Connection Newspaper

By Tim Peterson

The Gazette

When Carlos Alfaro of the Woodlawnarea of Mount Vernon showed up NewYear’s Eve morning at the Belle Haven

Marina parking lot with his road bike, he didn’tknow what to expect. Neither did Supervisor DanStorck (D-Mount Vernon), who organized themagisterial district-spanning group ride he adver-tised as “Tour de Mount Vernon.”

“I wanted to get a ride in this year,” Storck tolda group of 20 to 30 riders, himself bundled up inseveral layers and a neon green high-visibilityjacket. The objective, Storck said, was to tour someof the trails and roadways running through MountVernon District, and along the way discuss someof the near to distant development plans for thearea.

Storck said at least 40 people had registered forthe event through a website sent out by his office,though with the cold and the holiday weekend,he was uncertain of what attendance would be.Seeing the turnout, Storck said he couldn’t havebeen happier.

Fitness watches beeping and gears clicking, rid-ers departed from Belle Haven around 9:45 a.m.heading south on the trail along the George Wash-ington Memorial Highway.

After following the curve at the entrance toGeorge Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, riders

kept following the Mount Vernon Trail. Pausingafter a particularly craggy stretch of paved path,Storck and half a dozen riders stopped and talkedinformally.

Storck said he was aware of that trail and oth-ers that could greatly benefit from repaving, whichhe may be able to assist with money available forroad repairs.

The supervisor said having passable trails forbikes and foot traffic is incredibly important fornot only neighbor-to-neighbor community-build-ing, but also connecting what he called signifi-cant “cultural sites” for visitors, including theMount Vernon Estate, the National Museum of theU.S. Army and Arcadia Farm on the historicWoodlawn Estate.

ARCADIA is already functioning as a demonstra-tion farm and base for a veteran farmer trainingprogram. The Army Museum is still several years

By Tim Peterson

The Gazette

With the passing of2016, FairfaxCounty PublicSchools also

waved goodbye to its highly influ-ential superintendent Dr. KarenGarza. Garza, who came to FCPSin July 2013 and is largely cred-ited with the titanic achievementsof bringing full-day Mondays to el-ementary schools, pushing backhigh school start times and push-ing through a $2.7 school billionbudget for FY2017, announced herresignation in September last year.It took effect in December.

Garza’s temporary replacementis Dr. Steven Lockard, who has

worked as deputy superintendentfor FCPS since August 2014.

The school board has hired thesame recruiting firm that broughtthem Garza as a candidate, Haz-ard, Young, Attea & Associates,and the search is on.

As with Garza’s recruitment,there will be town hall meetings,community meetings, online por-tals for feedback and opportuni-ties to meet in person with the fi-nal candidates.

Pat Hynes, who representsHunter Mill on the school board,said the search could take up tothree months, with the goal ofhaving a new superintendent inplace by May or June of this year.

By Tim Peterson

The Gazette

This year will see two his-toric firsts for FairfaxCounty, its police depart-

ment and citizens: the beginningwork of an Office of Police Audi-tor and Civilian Review Panel. Theauditor will review police use offorce cases and internal investiga-tions of those incidents, while thepanel will review other citizencomplaints of police misconductand abuse of power.

Both bodies were recommenda-tions from the Ad Hoc Police Prac-tices Review Commission, a panelcreated Board of Supervisorschairman Sharon Bulova largely inresponse to public frustration andanger over the lack of transpar-ency and accountability after the2013 shooting of unarmed Spring-field man John Geer in the door-way of his home by then-FairfaxCounty Police officer Adam Torres.

A committee appointed by

See Storck, Page 4

See Police, Page 4

See FCPS, Page 3Supervisor Storckleads inauguralcross-district bike ride.

Tour de Mount Vernon

Pausing after a particularly craggy stretch of paved path on the Mount Vernon trail,Supervisor Dan Storck (right) and half a dozen riders stopped and talked informally.Storck said he was aware of that trail and others that could greatly benefit fromrepaving, which he may be able to assist with money available for road repairs.

Right, Supervisor Dan Storck (D-MountVernon) meets with Captain DerrickPenny of Fairfax County Fire & RescueStation 37 Kingstowne during the first-ever Tour de Mount Vernon bike ride.

Photos by Tim Peterson/The Gazette

Budget shortfall, equityand nondiscrimination arestorylines for 2017.

For Schools: New Year,New Superintendent

Body cameras, mental healthpart of public safety focus.

Police Auditor, CivilianReview Panel for 2017

2 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ January 5-11, 2017 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com


From Page 1

News

Budget will once again be a majorstoryline for the school system, as Hynessaid the board is currently looking at abouta $90 million shortfall for FY 2018.

Hynes lamented the voting down of aproposed meals tax that would havebrought the school system an estimated $67million that would have gone to investingin teacher salary scale and other long-terminvestments. “Those things are on the blockright now,” saidHynes.

A citizen budgettask force is beingre-engaged to goover the work of aprevious task forceand look for anyand all possibilitiesof trimming tomake up that $90million.

“That’s the con-versation we’vebeen having withthe community,”Hynes said. “Unlessthat shortfall gets a lot smaller, it’s a hardnut to swallow.”

George Becerra of Burke is an FCPS par-ent and actively engaged with both schoolsystem and county-wide issues, sitting on asubcommittee of the Ad Hoc Police Prac-tices Review Commission.

“The reality is this year, the schools willnot get what they’re asking for,” Becerrasaid. “When do we start having a conversa-tion of programs over taking money awayfrom teachers?”

Becerra suggests starting evaluating pro-grams that have an abundance of students.

“Forget the name, is it doing what it’s sup-posed to be doing?” he said. “How do youknow money going to it is actually produc-ing results?”

Mount Vernon representative to theschool board Karen Corbett Sanders saysanother major topic for 2017 is discussionof ensuring consistency of programs fromschool to school.

“We started down this path with home-work and grading policy last year,” she said.

“What does equity really mean,” CorbettSanders continued. “We’re going to have

some healthful dis-cussions about it.Everything fromearly educationon.”

Hynes said tohelp address thechallenge of equity,the school system isplanning to hire anassistant superin-tendent for innova-tion and equity.

“Looking at eq-uity really is a sys-temic thing,” saidHynes. “It has to be

top-down, it has to be part of how you de-liver curriculum in every building.”

Hynes and Becerra agree the county’slevel three and four Advanced AcademicCenters in only select elementary andmiddle schools, which require testing andchoice by parents to enter, introduce theproblem of equity.

Then in high school there are honors,Advanced Placement, International Bacca-laureate and general education classes. “Thereality is by then kids are sorted,” Hynessaid. “They’ve been sorted through our sys-

On Dec. 20, Fairfax County Police released security camerafootage showing the sequence

of events that led up to and immediatelyfollowed Master Deputy Sheriff PatrickMcPartlin shooting Yovani Amaya Gomezat the bus depot outside Inova FairfaxHospital on Aug. 15, 2016.

The previous Friday, Dec. 16,Commonwealth’s Attorney Ray Morroghannounced his decision that McPartlinwas not criminally liable in the shootingand that it was a “justified homicide.”

David Smith, commander of FairfaxCounty Police Department major crimesdivision, broke down the security cam-era footage of events leading up to andfollowing Yovani Amaya Gomez (pic-

tured on screen holding a sign post he usedto attack a security guard and Sheriff ’sdeputy) being shot by Master Deputy Sher-iff Patrick McPartlin.

A report on Morrogh’s decision is avail-able online here (link: http://www.connectionnewspapers.com/news/2016/dec/20/fairfax-county-sheriffs-deputy-cleared-fatal-shoot/).

The full, unedited security footage ofGomez released by Fairfax County Police isavailable on YouTube here (link: https://w w w . y o u t u b e . c o m /watch?v=xp1uyBk0CW4&feature=youtu.be).Security guards first engage with himaround the 53-minute mark.

— Tim Peterson

Share thoughts and ideas for idealsuperintendent characteristics at tencommunity meetings in January. A surveyfor online submissions will be posted Jan.9 at www.fcps.edu.

❖ Monday, Jan. 9, 1 p.m., GatehouseAdministration Center, room 1600, 8115Gatehouse Road, Falls Church, VA 22042.

❖ Monday, Jan. 9, 7 p.m., SouthCounty High School, 8501 SilverbrookRoad, Lorton, VA 22079.

❖ Tuesday, Jan. 10, 12:30 p.m.,Virginia Hills Center Library, 6520 DianaLane, Alexandria, VA 22310.

❖ Wednesday, Jan. 11, noon,Providence District Office and CommunityCenter, multipurpose room 2, 3001 VadenDrive, Fairfax, VA 22031.

❖ Wednesday, Jan. 11, 7 p.m.,Mount Vernon High School Little Theater,8515 Old Mount Vernon Road, Alexan-dria, VA 22309.

❖ Tuesday, Jan. 17, 11 a.m.,Herndon Council Chambers, 765 LynnStreet, Herndon, VA 20170.

❖ Tuesday, Jan. 17, 1 p.m., BurkeCentre Library, 5935 Freds Oak Road,Burke, VA 22015.

❖ Tuesday, Jan. 17, 7 p.m., StuartHigh School Little Theater, 3301 PeaceValley Lane, Falls Church, VA 22044.

❖ Tuesday, Jan. 17, 7 p.m., ChantillyHigh School Lecture Hall, 4201Stringfellow Road, Chantilly, VA 20151.

❖ Wednesday, Jan. 18, 7 p.m.,Langley High School Auditorium, 6520Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA 22101.

Superintendent Search Community Forums

tem and remain sorted in high school. Andthen there are parts of the county whereadvanced and challenging work isn’t evenavailable at all to kids.”

THE TOPIC OF GENDER IDENTITY fig-ures to continue to be a contentious onethis year in Fairfax County Public Schools,as it is around the country. Over the lasttwo school years, the board voted to addsexual orientation and gender identity —generally understood as the sex that some-one feels or intrinsically identifies with rela-tive to their sex at birth — to the FCPS non-discrimination policy for students and fac-ulty.

Opponents of the change say the boardacted outside its authority, and did so tofollow a directive from President Obama,who some say was acting outside his au-thority to hold schools accountable to make

such changes.A lawsuit against the school board over

this issue is pending at the state level, butHynes emphasized that Policy 1450 as itstands is still in place.

A set of regulations for implementing thenondiscrimination policy was sent to theboard from school system staff in 2016, buttabled indefinitely.

Hynes said the regulations are meant asguidance for consistency, as for principalsaddressing an issue for the first time suchas student who identifies as transgender.

“They’ve been doing it school by school,kid by kid,” said Hynes. “The bottom lineis everyone has the opportunity for pri-vacy.”

It’s not known whether the board will takeup the regulations again. But, as Hynes said,opponents of the policy can push schoolboard members to put it back up for a vote.

New Year, New Superintendent for FCPS

Police Release Security Footage of Gomez ShootingLaw enforcement invites media to viewand break-down sequence of events

David Smith (left), commander of Fairfax County Police Departmentmajor crimes division, breaks down the security camera footage ofevents leading up to and following Yovani Amaya Gomez (pictured onscreen holding a sign post he used to attack a security guard andSheriff’s deputy) being shot by Master Deputy Sheriff Patrick McPartlin.

Photo by Tim Peterson/The Connection

“The reality is this year,the schools will not getwhat they’re asking for.When do we start having aconversation of programsover taking money awayfrom teachers?”

— George Becerra, parent


From Page 1

Bulova is reviewing six candidates whotopped the applicants list.

For the civilian review panel, invitationsto nominate members have been sent todozens of community groups, includingminority organizations, disability services,interfaith groups and others that were partof the Election Process Improvement Com-mission. Each supervisor may also makenominations. Public Safety Committee chairsupervisor John Cook (R-Braddock) said thefull board will review all the nominationsin closed session Feb. 14.

Supervisor Pat Herrity (R-Springfield)fully supported the auditor position but hasbeen critical of the need for a civilian re-view panel — he was the only supervisorto vote against its creation.

Looking ahead at 2017 though, Herritysaid “my expectation and hope for both is

they’re going to confirm our police depart-ment is doing a very good job.”

Randy Sayles of Oak Hill was a memberof the Use of Force subcommittee of the AdHoc Commission. Sayles spent more than35 years in law enforcement with the Den-ver Police Department and Drug Enforce-ment Administration. He said he is veryoptimistic both the auditor’s office and ci-vilian review panel will be beneficial to thesupervisors, police and citizens.

Sayles said from what he’s seen, “There’sa sense there can be be real improvementand transparency, not just lip service.”

In choosing the members of the panel,Sayles said it’s crucial the supervisors gowith people who won’t allow bias to cor-rupt the review process.

“It’s very important people picked dealwith facts, demand facts and make decisionsbased on facts,” Sayles said, “and commu-nicate those in a way that’s not divisive.

“Try to get a diversity of people,” Saylessaid. “But ultimately, pick people who arewilling to be fair, no matter what. It can bea difficult thing to do.”

ANOTHER SIGNIFICANT and conten-tious recommendation from the Ad Hoccommission is the implementation of po-lice officer-worn body cameras. Herrity saidthe supervisors are set to approve a newpilot program this month.

“They are absolutely important,”Herrity said. “This is something ourpolice department supports, our citizenssupport. We should go ahead and get itdone now.”

Herrity said the estimated cost for get-ting body cameras up and running on po-lice in Fairfax County is $30 million. Thepilot, he said, will last for several months.He’s asked that it include two different ven-dors and be done at stations in two magis-

terial districts.

SUPERVISOR COOK said another publicsafety priority is taking next steps with theDiversion First program, which is set up toprevent people with mental illness or de-velopmental disabilities from going to jailfor nonviolent offenses.

Coordinating more with the court systemis an important issue, Cook said.

“We really need a sea change in how wethink about mental illness,” said Cook, “torecognize it serves a public safety purposeas well to get people treatment. If you justthrow them in jail, 80 percent of the time,something else happens, they’re going backin.”

The next meeting of the board’s PublicSafety Committee is scheduled for Jan. 31at 3 p.m. at the Fairfax County GovernmentCenter, 12000 Government Center Parkwayin Fairfax.

From Page 1

News

from opening but when completed will span80 acres in the Fort Belvoir area and ex-hibit rare artifacts, documents and images,as well as an experiential learning center.

In addition to community members,Storck had invited a number of county staffand government officials on the ride to geta first-hand look at situations needing at-tention, like the rocky trail.

Bikers continued on to Jeff Todd Way,heading north to Telegraph Road and amettle-challenging hill. At the top of the hill,however, volunteers were waiting at theKingstowne Station 37 of Fairfax CountyFire & Rescue with water bottles. The grouptook a brief break to warm up, use the bath-room and meet with station Captain Der-rick Penny.

The group followed Telegraph southwesttoward Lorton, eventually turning right onto Lorton Road after a brief jog on Rich-mond Highway.

They took Lorton Road past the work en-trance for Liberty Crest at Laurel Hill, a$188 million project that’s redevelopingformer Lorton prison structures on 80 acresfor residential and commercial use.

Bikers followed Lorton Road to a shortjog on the Gerry Connolly Cross CountyTrail before continuing on Workhouse Roadand taking the redone entrance to the Work-house Arts Center in Lorton.

Staff from Storck’s office and other vol-unteers were waiting outside theWorkhouse’s main building with hot choco-late, water bottles and energy bars.

Though the group had splintered some-what during the ride, they reconvened atthe Workhouse around 12:30 p.m., just over20 miles pedaling from the starting point.

Alfaro said that despite the cold, the sunhad come out and the ride was “totallyworth it.”

“I’ve lived in this area most all of my life,”Alfaro said, “and it’s the first time I’ve bikedhere.”

Alfaro said it was the first time he’d ex-plored this much of the county by bike andhe was already looking forward to Storck’snext tour.

Charlie Dyer of Fairfax Station is a mem-ber of the Fairfax Alliance for Better Bicy-cling and Potomac Pedalers organizations.

Dyer said he especially liked the newLorton Road extension, which he called“pretty, and doable.”

“I’m thrilled to see the redevelopment, ordevelopment, on this end of the county,”Dyer said.

Loretta Trowen of West Springfield saidshe was similarly thrilled to see a supervi-sor take such an engaged approach with bik-ing.

“I’m here to support someone who’s sup-portive of biking,” she said.

see friends on New Year’s Eve. Miller is alsoa member of the Fairfax Alliance for BetterBicycling.

WITH 20 MILES IN THE BOOKS, someriders took alternate transportation back toBelle Haven while others continued on todifferent destinations.

Those remaining largely followed thesame route back to the start point, complet-ing just over 40 miles in the saddle.

Storck said again he was encouraged bythe turnout, and intends to use this firstTour de Mount Vernon as a learning expe-rience for engaging more of the commu-nity and scheduling more similar rides inthe future.

Storck Leads Inaugural Cross-District Bike Ride

From left, Loretta Trowen of WestSpringfield, Charles Dyer of FairfaxStation and Cathy Miller of Fairfaxrode in the first Tour de MountVernon on New Year’s Eve.

Carlos Alfaro of Woodlawn said itwas the first time he’d exploredthis much of the county by bikeand he was already looking for-ward to Supervisor Dan Storck’snext tour.

Right, Supervisor Dan Storck (D-Mount Vernon) welcomes a group ofbetween 20 and 30 riders to the first Tour de Mount Vernon cross-dis-trict bike ride on New Year’s Eve. The objective, Storck said, was to toursome of the trails and roadways running through Mount Vernon District,and along the way discuss some of the near to distant developmentplans for the area.

Police Auditor, Civilian Review Panel to Become Reality in 2017

Like Alfaro, Cathy Miller of Fairfax, wasexcited to find some new routes for gettingfrom Point A to Point B, and to get out and

Photos by Tim Peterson/The Gazette


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News

Del. Paul Krizek (D-44) has introduced a bill torequire all occupants of a motor vehicle to utilizesafety restraints. Current law requires safety belt useonly by occupants under the age of 18, drivers, andfront-seat passengers.

The idea for the bill came from West Potomac HighSchool student, Jonathan Tucker, who proposed thelegislation as his 2016 Amundson Institute Scholarproject. The bill would make it a secondary offensefor any automobile passenger to fail to use a seatbelt.

During 2014, 58 percent of back seat passengerskilled were not buckled up. In 2008, motor vehiclecrashes killed 25,351 occupants, where 55 percentwere unrestrained, according to the National High-way Traffic Safety Administration.

Twenty four states and the District of Columbiarequire seat belt use in all seating positions. Minne-sota enacted the requirement in 2009, and New Jer-sey passed a similar measure in 2010.

Krizek Seeks Mandatory Seatbelt Law

Suspect ArrestedIn Shooting

Officers arrested a 40-year-old man from Alexan-dria who was wanted for malicious wounding, useor display of a firearm while committing a felony,and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon inrelation to the Dec. 27, shooting in the 3800 blockof Miramonte Place. The suspect was arrested with-out incident and will be taken to the Adult Deten-tion Center where the warrants will be served.

Police initially responded to a call for one manchasing another and shooting at him with a hand-gun. The victim was wounded by a bullet that grazedhis leg. He was treated at the scene by Fairfax CountyFire and Rescue personnel.

Anyone with information about this incident isasked to contact Crime Solvers electronically by vis-iting www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text-a-tip bytexting “TIP187” plus a message to CRIMES(274637)or by calling 1-866-411-TIPS(8477), or call FairfaxCounty Police at 703-691-2131.

Suspect inStabbing Arrested

Detectives have charged a man for stabbing an-other man on Monday, Dec. 26. An investigation de-termined the two men, who did not know each other,were outside talking with a mutual acquaintance inthe 7900 block of Audubon Avenue around 8:50 p.m.The two men began arguing. The argument esca-lated and the suspect stabbed the victim multipletimes with a knife.

According to the police, the victim suffered seri-ous trauma to the upper body. He was taken to thehospital, where he remains in critical condition.Major Crimes detectives assumed the investigation.

Crime News

Shortly after, a 34-year-old man from Falls Churchwas located in the 8300 block of Brockham Drive.He was taken to the Adult Detention Center andcharged with malicious wounding.

Anyone with information is asked to contact theFairfax County police at 703-691-2131 or you canCrime Solvers electronically by visiting http://www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text-a-tip by texting“TIP187” plus a message to CRIMES(274637)** orby calling 1-866-411-TIPS(8477).

Police Release VideoOf Robbery Suspects

Detectives have released surveillance video of thesuspects in the robbery that occurred at the QualityInn at 7212 Richmond Highway, on Thursday, Dec.15, shortly before 11 p.m.

Police are asking for the public’s assistance in iden-tifying the two men and car that appear in this video.See https://fcpdnews.wordpress.com/2016/12/28/update-detectives-release-video-of-hotel-robbery-sus-pects-and-car/

The first suspect was described as black, 25 to 30years old, and around 6 feet tall. He was wearing ablack or dark blue hooded jacket, blue jeans, blacksneakers, black gloves, and a ski mask. The secondsuspect was described as black, 25 to 30 years old,and around 5 feet 10 inches tall. He was wearing ablack jacket with a gray, hooded sweatshirt, blackpants, black shoes, gloves, and a ski mask.

The car was described as a silver compact sedan.If anyone recognizes these men or the car, they

should contact Detective McAuliffe from the MajorCrimes Division at 703-246-7800, or Crime Solverselectronically by visiting www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.orgor text-a-tip by texting “TIP187” plus a message toCRIMES(274637) or by calling 1-866-411-TIPS(8477),or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131.

The following incidents were reportedby the Mount Vernon District PoliceStation.

UNLAWFUL ENTRY: 8000 block ofPantano Place, Dec. 29, 7:14 p.m. A se-curity officer reported that threejuveniles were inside a vacant apart-ment. Officers responded and identifiedthe three juveniles. Charges are pend-ing.

ROBBERY: 8200 block of RussellRoad (Mount Vernon Apartments), Dec.22, around 7:42 p.m. A 31-year-oldwoman was walking on a sidewalkwhen two men grabbed her from be-hind, threw her to the ground, took herpurse and ran off. The victim wastreated at a local hospital for minor in-juries.

TRAFFIC PURSUIT/DWI/POS-SESSION OF MARIJUANA/UNAUTHORIZED USE/ARREST:

Richmond Highway/Russell Road, Dec.24, around 8:50 p.m. Officers saw a ve-hicle driving erratically and attemptedto conduct a traffic stop. The driverfailed to pull over. Eventually, the offic-ers were able to stop the car. A39-year-old man from Waldorf, Md.,was arrested, taken to the Adult Deten-tion Center, and charged withunauthorized use of a vehicle, posses-sion of marijuana and driving whileintoxicated.

ROBBERY: Parrott Place/PelicanPlace, Dec. 21, around 1 p.m. A 35-year-old woman was walking through aneighborhood when she was ap-proached by two men. One suspectdisplayed a knife and demanded cash.The other suspect threw her to theground and took an unknown amount ofmoney from her purse. The suspects ranaway. The victim did not require medi-cal attention.

SHOPLIFTING/ARREST: 6700block of Richmond Highway(Marshall’s), Dec. 21, around 1:45 p.m.A loss prevention officer notified a de-tective that three men, whom herecognized as serial shoplifters, had leftthe store with merchandise. A lookout ofthe suspect car was provided to localofficers and a traffic stop was made. Thedriver, a 49-year-old man from Balti-more, was arrested, taken to the AdultDetention Center and charged with petitlarceny. The other two suspects werereleased.

DEC. 30LARCENIESBacklick Road/Richmond Highway,

tools from construction site3100 block of Furman Lane, tires and

rims from vehicle

Crime Report

See Crime, Page 14


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Opinion

The call for reform and transparencyin Fairfax County Police began longbefore the shooting death of JohnGeer in August 2013. Some mem-

bers of the Fairfax County Police Practices Re-view Commission pressed for reform for nearlya decade before the formation of the commis-sion. Their experience also should answer anyquestion about whether reform was reallyneeded.

Anita and Sal Culosi lost their son Dr.Salvatore “Sal” Culosi Jr. when he was killedby a Fairfax County Police officer Jan. 24, 2006

outside his Fair Oakstownhouse by a SWAT teammember executing a searchwarrant. Police knew Culosi

was unarmed and did not consider him dan-gerous. The shooting was ruled an accident andthe officer faced no charges.

“My son would still be alive today,” Culosisaid at the first meeting of the commission inMarch 2015, “but for 2006 Fairfax County poli-cies to routinely use SWAT and aggressive pro-cedures against citizens certified to be lowrisk.”

Culosi Sr. told members of the commissionthat David M. Rohrer told him that use offorce policy changes had been made sincehis son’s shooting, but that Rohrer declinedto give him copies of the changes or tell himexactly what changes were made. Rohrer,now deputy county executive for publicsafety was Fairfax County police chief whenCulosi Jr. was killed.

As the commission began its work, PoliceChief Edwin Roessler and Rohrer among oth-ers, embraced Sal Culosi Sr.’s involvement, andworked with him on many details of policychanges ranging from how SWAT teams aredeployed to “ready gun position.” New policies

were developed with his input, are available tothe public and mark significant improvements.

NICHOLAS R. BELTRANTE, a retired D.C.homicide detective and Mount Vernon resident,founded Virginia Citizens Coalition for PoliceAccountability in 2010 in response to the shoot-ing death of unarmed David A. Masters whowas shot and killed by a Fairfax County Policeofficer on Richmond Highway and Fort HuntRoad on Nov. 13, 2009. Masters, a former U.S.Army Green Beret, struggled with mentalhealth issues.

Beltrante decried the secrecy surroundingthe Masters and Culosi cases among others,and began advocating for the formation of acivilian review panel.

He wrote to the Connection in 2012:“During the years 2010-2011, the CCPA has

directed a number of letters to Chief David M.Rohrer regarding these and other citizen alle-gations of police abuse, misconduct, and neg-ligence. These letters have gone unanswered.As a result the CCPA began in January 2012mailing letters of complaint to Fairfax CountyBoard of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulovawith the understanding they would be for-warded to Supervisor Gerald W. Hyland, theboard’s Public Safety Committee chairman, forappropriate action. In recent weeks the CCPAhas written to Supervisor Hyland in an effortto determine what action, if any, he had taken.To-date, we have not heard from SupervisorHyland.

“The apparent lack of accountability by vari-ous entities of the Fairfax County Governmentregarding these serious issues has caused manycitizens grave concern and some have ex-pressed their frustration by indicating theirbelief this may constitute a case of malfea-sance.”

Beltrante noted that no one, including thefamilies of the deceased victims, had been ableto obtain a police incident report despite thefact that the four cases were closed.

The establishment of a civilian review paneland an independent police auditor, both ap-proved last year by the Fairfax County Boardof Supervisors, plus changes in policies aboutuse of force, transparency and crisis interven-tion, among many others, are major accom-plishments.

The Culosis and Beltrante began the call forsuch changes many years before the death ofJohn Geer. Geer’s best friend, Jeff Stewart, alsoserved on the Ad Hoc Commission. Stewart waspresent on the scene when his friend was shotdead. Stewart’s voice was also critical on thecommission. The personal involvement of thesefamilies and individuals in the process, plusthe new openness of leadership in the FCPD,made all the difference.

— Mary Kimm

[email protected]

Photo by Tim Peterson/The Connection

Sal Culosi (left), father of Dr.Salvatore “Sal” Culosi Jr., who waskilled by a Fairfax County Policeofficer in 2006, and NicholasBeltrante (right), executive directorof the Virginia Citizens Coalition forPolice Accountability, attend the firstmeeting of the Fairfax County Ad HocPolice Practices Review Commissionin March 2015

Personal involvement of Culosi, Beltrantekey to success of police commission.

Unsung Heroes of Police Reform

Editorial

To the Editor:Does Fairfax County actually

care about recycling? Based onrecent experience, I suggest thatthe answer is a mixed one. Yes,most of us residents are furnishedwith the blue roll-away bins thatwe fill with recyclable materialsand put out by the curb each week,but the county has recently closedits eight stand-alone, non-at-tended recycling centers like theone that existed on the hill behindthe Mount Vernon Recreation Cen-ter.

I spoke this week with the di-rector of solid waste managementfor Fairfax County, a phone callfacilitated by a staffer for Super-visor Dan Storck. The staffer hadresponded to my inquiry about

why the recycling center had beenclosed, with a notice at its site di-recting would-be patrons to pro-ceed to West Ox Road if they haditems to recycle. (For the record,the West Ox location is way out I-66, some 28.5 miles from myhouse.) The center had beenclosed, said the sign, becausepeople were dumping trash there.

It was clear from the beginningof the conversation that the FairfaxCounty employee wasn’t buyinganything I was selling. I told herthat many people used the recy-cling center and that the reasonpeople dumped items like mat-tresses, old TV sets, and brokenfurniture next to the recycling binswas because there was nowhereelse to put them. What if the

Letters to the Editor

county had placed a dumpsterthere to accept trash, I asked,rather than closing the recyclingcenter? The logic on the sign sim-ply did not make sense to me, Isaid.

Her response was a litany of rea-sons why I didn’t understandwaste management, while she had38 years of experience. The eightstand-alone, non-manned recy-cling centers collected “only” 2200tons of recyclable materials lastyear, she said, a small fraction ofthe total. And why didn’t I just usethe blue bin, she asked. I explainedthat we did use the bin, and thatwe filled it every week, withrecyclables left over. That’s whenwe went to the place behind therec center. She then told me that I

County Should Be Supporting Recycling

Posting about the closing ofthe recycling center behindthe Mount Vernon Recre-ation Center.

See Letters, Page 7

could simply leave materials out-side the bin, and it would bepicked up. Not so, I said, as suchitems would blow around theneighborhood and into theparkland across the street. She


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Opinion

From Page 6

suggested that I could drive to theFurnace Road facility near Lorton,missing entirely the idea that thoseof us who care about preservingscarce resources don’t want to trekdown I-95 almost to Prince Will-iam County every time our recy-cling bin is full. Conserving gaso-line is also part of our ethos.

Our conversation ended with metrying to make the point thatearth’s resources are limited, thatrecycling is a very good thing, andthat she clearly did not understandthe public on this one. I askedwhether there had been any kindof public notice or discussion be-fore the eight centers were closed.Her silence gave me the answer.Her retort was that she had heardfrom only 20 county residents outof a million people who lived here.Frankly, I said to her, I think 20people who cared enough to con-tact the county is a large number.

Maybe I’m totally wrong, andmaybe there are only 20 people inFairfax County who care about thisissue. But I am guessing that thereare way more than 20 people whobelieve that making it convenientfor people to recycle bulky itemslike cardboard boxes is good forthe county and good for the earth.I hope that the Board of Supervi-

sors will reverse this ill-conceiveddecision.

Col. James T. Currie,USA (ret)/Alexandria

Fragile HabitatTo the Editor:

The National Park service hascontracted with seven tree-cuttingcompanies to remove trees alongthe Parkway from above SpoutRun to Mount Vernon throughMarch of 2017. This calls for re-moval of trees deemed a danger.It is the responsibility of a certi-fied arborist to determine whichtrees are to be cut down. Recentlyover 90 trees were removed nearthe boardwalk north of TulaneDrive. Many of the trees were farfrom the boardwalk and posed nothreat to people or property.

Included among the trees cutdown were three Pumpkin Ashthat had been selected by a certi-fied arborist from Bartlett’s Treeservice along with a park servicebiologist. These were injected withinsecticide to protect them fromEmerald Ash Borer using fundsprovided by the Friends of DykeMarsh. The trees were evaluatedin the spring and were deemedhealthy. Regrettably, the arboristresponsible for overseeing this

cutting was ill at the time of thetree sawing, and the selection oftrees was made by an unautho-rized individual removing manythat exceeded 70 years of age.

In areas of the midwest andnortheast, where up to 19 percentof the urban forest is composed byAsh trees, a decision has beenmade after a cost-effective analy-sis, that the considerable price ofcutting ash and replanting themwith new trees justifies consider-ation of treatment as an alterna-tive. The decision to treat is madeby evaluating the canopy in thespring and trees with less than 40percent canopy damage are con-sidered candidates for ash borertreatment while other, more dis-tressed trees, are removed. TheNational Park Service’s designatedarborist has been removing all Ashtrees close to “targets,” includingthose with no obvious defects andhas made the decision in the fallafter leaf drop rather than whenleafing has occurred in spring.Their justification is likely thatEmerald Ash borer, sooner or later,will affect all Ash trees and thatremoving them is justified. But isthis truly a proper rationale forcutting? Overreach jeopardizes afragile habitat that we all enjoy.

Edward Eder/Alexandria


Wellbeing

By Rikki George

The Gazette

Terry Garret wants to quit smok-ing. Timothy Noel Castle wantsto get in shape. Larry Millerwants to stop procrastinating.

And Pat Troy wants to do more for others.The New Year is here and it naturally in-

spires people to make resolutions like los-ing weight, finding a new job and all of theabove. Often times, however, people setthemselves up for failure. By February, thatambitious plan to lift weights before workbecomes no plan at all.

With a little retooling and help from oth-ers, New Year’s resolutions can be achiev-able. Here are a few tips from local expertsto get started on the right track.

According to Executive Coach JeanStafford, New Year’s resolutions fail becausepeople never go beyond the “‘wish stage.’ Itis about details. How are you going to losethose 10 pounds?”

Stafford suggests developing a plan based

on the model of S.M.A.R.T. goals: Specific,Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-based. “Being realistic is key for resolu-tions,” Stafford said. “Be in the realm ofpossibility.”

For board certified clinical hypnotherapistRuth Ruskin, L.C.S.W., “resolutions are anopportunity to feel good if successful or anopportunity to look at why things are notworking. Do you not have the motivationto go to the gym at 5 a.m.? What could bean alternative strategy for you?”

Ruskin suggests breaking a resolutiondown into steps on a daily or weekly basis

and work them into a schedule. By doingso, tasks become less overwhelming and,more importantly, they become a habit.

Dr. Kristine Erickson, a wellness coachand personal trainer, agrees. Have a visionfor the future but start small. Setting up asmall, reachable goal will lead to biggergoals and that leads to confidence buildingand success.

Understanding the emotion behind theresolution is also important, according tostress management expert Dr. CynthiaAckrill, a physician trained in neuroscienceand leadership coaching. Why do you want

to change? And do you have the knowledgeto proceed with the resolution? Willpoweralone won’t get you there, she said.

“It helps to be accountable to someoneand not on Facebook,” said Ruskin. Iden-tify one or two trusted people — especiallysomeone with similar goals. Together, youbecome a co-motivating group.

Finally, understand you won’t be perfect.It takes a lot of work to change behavior, so“have compassion with yourself when youdo this,” said Ackrill. If you fail, just startagain. As Ruskin said, “The all or nothingapproach never gets you to all.”

Tips to Achieve New Year’s ResolutionsAdvice on settingand reaching goals.

Alex-andriaresidentTerryGarret. “Ireallywant toquitsmokingand loseweightfor health

reasons. I just want to behealthier. I’ve taken the patchand that didn’t work.”

RetiredrestaurantownerandparadeorganizerPat Troy.“[I alwayshave]NewYear’sresolu-

tions. The most important thingis health, family and friends. Weneed to do more for others.”

Timo-thy NoelCastle,formerlyofAlexan-dria,lives inFairfax.“I’vebeen …20 years

without a cigarette…. I want towork on my core with sit-upsand crunches. I go to gym andwalk six to 10 miles a day. Yourhealth is more important thanall the money in the world.”

Larry Millerhas been aresident ofAlexandria for52 years. Hisresolution is tonot procrasti-nate. “I have atendency toprocrastinate,”Miller said. Hespends two

hours walking a day. He is stress-free.He’s been retired for 20 years.

Photos by Rikki George

Gazette Packet

By Marilyn Campbell

The Gazette

Every January for the last five yearsFaye Ripke has resolved to loseweight and lead a healthier lifestyle.

However, the only thing she has to showfor it, she says, is a trail of unused gymmemberships and a wardrobe of clothes thathave increased in size.

“Both of my parents died from heart at-tacks,” says Ripke, 57 of Fairfax Station. “Mydoctor keeps telling me that I need to domore aerobic exercise to get my heart rateup every day and drop about 75 pounds.”

Losing weight, getting organized, achiev-ing physical fitness and improving one’s fi-nances are the most frequently made reso-lutions, often the guilt-induced responses

to holiday indulgence. According to a studypublished last month in the Journal of Clini-cal Psychology, only eight percent of peoplewho make New Year’s resolutions keep themand achieve success.

“One reason that many people fail toachieve their goals is that they might notbe ready to make the change, even if theywould benefit from doing so,” said JoelBitman, a Bethesda-based psychotherapist.“Another reason is that people often setunrealistic goals or don’t have a plan toachieve their goals.”

Actually wanting to make the change thatthe resolution would bring about is the firststep followed by developing strategies toachieve it. “When you set a goal, say quit-ting smoking for example, ask yourselfwhether it’s something that you really want

to do or something that you think youshould do,” said Bitman. “If you’re doing itbecause you think you should or becausesociety is telling you that you should, butthe reality is that you really enjoy smoking,it will be much harder, if not impossible, toquit.”

While it is easy and often tempting to lookat pictures of ultra thin models and resolveto transform one’s body by the end of theyear, setting unrealistic expectations cansabotage a set of goals, says Alicia Brand, aFalls Church personal trainer.

“Trying to lose 60 pounds in time for abeach vacation during spring break isn’tgoing to happen,” he said. “But losing 10pounds by April is absolutely achievable formost people.”

A key to that achievement is creating a

set of concrete goals that are realistic, spe-cific, measurable and include a timetable,says Bittman. “You actually have to makemindset changes and behavioral changes inorder to successfully reach a goal, andchanges in behaviors are often quite diffi-cult,” he said. “But if you are able to makesmall changes and reach small weekly, dailyor even hourly goals, you’re more likely togain confidence to keep going. It’s easy tobecome discouraged and give up.”

“If you want to become more fit, but youhaven’t exercised in years, you might beginby committing to walking 30 minutes a day,three days a week,” said Brand. “That ismuch more realistic than signing up for agym membership and planning to spend anhour there every day until you’ve whittledyour body down to a size two.”

Realistic goals and specific plans among keys to success.Keeping Resolutions


COMMUNITIES OF WORSHIP

To Advertise Your Faith Community, call Karen at 703-917-6468

Good Shepherd CatholicChurch Mass Schedule

8710 Mount Vernon Highway, Alexandria VA, 22309Tel: 703-780-4055 Fax: 703-360-5385 • www.gs-cc.org

Saturday:5:00 pm Vigil Mass6:30 pm Vigil Mass(en Español)Sunday:7:30 am; 9:00 am(with Sign LanguageInterpreter andChildren’s Liturgy ofthe Word); 10:30 am;12:00 Noon; 2:00 pm(en Español); 6:30 pm

Monday-Saturday:9:00 am Mass(Rosary at 8:30 am)

En Español:Monday, 6:30 pm;Thursday, 7:30 pm;First Friday, 7:30 pm

Join us for the Year of Mercy

Aldersgate Church Community Theater

Tickets and Information: www.acctonline.org

Director: Shelagh RobertsProducers: Tracy Dunn & Jacqueline Cooney

Music Director: James WoodsChoreographer: Michele KorosStage Manager: Austin Fodrie

Elf The Musical JR. is presented through specialarrangement with and all authorized materials are

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January 13, 14, 20, 21 at 7:30pmJanuary 15, 16, 21, 22 at 2:00pm

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News

As in years past, the Fairfax County delega-tion to the General Assembly will hold ahearing for public comment on the upcom-ing 2017 session on Saturday, Jan. 7, begin-

ning at 9 a.m. at the Fairfax County Government Center.Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman

Sharon Bulova will welcome the delegation to theGovernment Center on behalf of the Board of Super-visors and deliver brief remarks.

Fairfax County is assisting with the logistics of thedelegation’s event. Fairfax County residents whowant to sign up in advance to speak at the hearingshould register online or contact the Office of theClerk to the Board of Supervisors at 703-324-3151,TTY 711, by noon on Friday, Jan. 6.

Only Fairfax County residents or individuals speak-ing on behalf of a Fairfax County organization mayregister to speak, and are asked to personally regis-ter for their speaking slot (residents needing assis-

tance will be helped on a case by case basis). Orga-nizations are encouraged to limit their number ofspeakers to five. Additional attendees in support ofsaid organization at the public hearing may be rec-ognized by the chair. Speaking slots will be num-bered based on a first come, first served allocation.

Each speaker will be allocated three minutes toaddress the delegation. Speakers must be presentwhen called to the podium, and people who misstheir turn will be added to the end of the list of speak-ers. The chair reserves the right to modify the guide-lines on site for the smooth operation of the publichearing.

Further information on the public comment hear-ing is available from members of the Fairfax Countylegislative delegation. Contact information for indi-vidual delegation members is available on the Vir-ginia General Assembly web page: http://whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov/.

Legislators To Hold Public Hearing

VOLUNTEERS WANTEDAARP Foundation Tax-Aide is

seeking volunteers to participate in afree, non-profit program, offered inconjunction with the IRS, thatprovides tax filing assistance topeople of low- and middle-income,with special attention paid to thoseaged 60-plus. Training will beavailable in December and January tohelp taxpayers Feb. 1-April 18, 2017.Visit www.aarp.org/taxaide.

Sponsors Needed. Britepaths FamilySponsoring. Fairfax-based non-profitBritepaths (formerly Our DailyBread) is seeking communitymembers to sponsor families in needwho live throughout the FairfaxCounty area. Sponsors are matchedwith an individual or family withdemonstrated need, and may opt toprovide a Thanksgiving meal,December holiday meal, and/or giftsfor children under 18. Cashdonations and gift cards are welcometo assist those who are notsponsored. Britepaths is expecting tohave 3,000 households on itsassistance list. A great family,

company or group holiday serviceproject. Register and learn more athttp://britepaths.org. Contact 703-273-8829 or [email protected].

SECOND WEDNESDAYSArt Making as Meditation. 7-8:30

p.m. St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church,8531 Riverside Road. Art making asmeditation can be an active form ofcontemplative practice. Each sessionbegins with a short reading and abrief introduction to materials.Silence for making and meditationlasts an hour followed by sharingimages or insights gained through theprocess, if desired. Children able toparticipate in silence are welcome tocome with a parent’s quietsupervision. RSVP not necessary forattendance, but helpful for planningpurposes. Call 703-360-4220, [email protected] visit www.staidansepiscopal.com/Center-for-Spiritual-Deepening.

SUNDAY/JAN. 8School Open House. 2-4 p.m. at

Burgundy Farm Country Day School,3700 Burgundy Road, Alexandria.School serves pre-kindergarten to 8thgrade. Call 703-329-6968 to RSVP orschedule a personal tour. Visitwww.burgundyfarm.org for more.

TUESDAY/JAN. 17Heroin-Opioid Dependency

Information. 7-9 p.m. at Merrifield

Center, 8221 Willow Oaks CorporateDrive, Fairfax. The Fairfax-FallsChurch Community Services Board ishosting a public information sessionfor people who know someone whohas opioid or heroin dependency andlearn about a new CSB opioiddependency treatment group thatstarts in February. 703-324-7006.

ONGOINGPeer Facilitated Mental Health

Support Group 6:30-8:30 p.m.Thursdays at the Gartlan BehavioralHealth Center, 8119 Holland Road.Facilitated by trained peers withlived-experience dealing with mentalhealth challenges. [email protected]

Mount Vernon PreservationChallenge. George Washington’sMount Vernon has embarked upon aspecial year-end fundraisingcampaign that will help ensure theongoing preservation of the estate ofthis nation’s first president. As thecountry’s most popular historic home,Mount Vernon does not acceptgovernment funding, instead relyingupon donations from patrioticindividuals and organizations.Through the Preservation Challenge,Mount Vernon hopes to raise enoughmoney to perform critical repairs andrestoration work on originalstructures located in the historicarea. The funds raised through theMount Vernon PreservationChallenge will support the followingprojects:

Email announcements [email protected] is Thursday at noon. Photoswelcome.

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Associa-tion elected Sarah Miller Coulson ofBryn Mawr, Pa., to serve as its 22ndRegent, or chairwoman.

People Notes

Bulletin Board Email announcements to [email protected]. Include date, time,location, description and contact for event: phone, email and/or website. Photos andartwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two weeks before event.


By Hope Nelson

The Gazette

Fess up — you’re not even a weekinto the New Year and alreadyyour diet has become bland andboring. Here are three Alexandria

restaurants where you can give into temp-tation once and for all.

Lavender Moon Cupcakery,116 S. Royal St.

Life is short — better have a cupcake. AndLavender Moon, indisputably one of thecity’s best cupcake shops, offers up its waresin spades. From traditional flavors such as

takes on vanilla and chocolateto adventurous combinationssuch as Irish whiskey coffeecake and, a recent favorite for

New Year’s Eve, strawberries and cham-pagne, this bakery has you covered. Butyou’d better hustle — once they’ve sold outfor the day, the doors are locked and you’reout of luck.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed while stand-ing face-to-face with a veritable buffet ofsweet treats, but you can’t go wrong withblood orange dreamsicle — a cakey versionof the summertime frozen dessert, teemingwith orange flavor and boasting a smooth,moist cake. Or for a campfire favoritebrought back into the city, pick up a s’morescupcake, with all the chocolately, marshmal-

ness of pasta. And at Carluccio’s, which hasquickly become a mainstay in Alexandria’sItalian-food scene, the possibilities areseemingly endless. From a variety of anti-pasti sharing boards to start one’s meal(preferably with a gaggle of compatriots)

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

ONGOING“Fully Committed” at MetroStage.

Through Jan. 8, various times atMetroStage, 1201 N. Royal St. TomStory plays a restaurantreservationist, juggling phones,personalities and pandemonium withthe dexterity of a Cirque du Soleilcontortionist. $55-$60 703-548-9044www.metrostage.org

Art Exhibit: Color Disorder.Through Jan. 8 at AthenaeumGallery, 201 Prince St. Katie Bainesand Amy Chan’s acrylic, gouache,airbrush and screen print work ondisplay. Sat., Nov. 13, 4-6 p.m. isopening reception.703-548-0035,nvfaa.org.

Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery:“Geometry Glitz.” Through Jan. 8,gallery hours at Torpedo Factory ArtCenter, 105 N. Union St. 2016. Inthis show, our artists have thesparkle and shine of the holidays forinspiration, with an additional focuson geometry. Explorations may focus

on points, lines, and other flatshapes, such as circles and triangles,or 3-dimensional shapes, such asspheres and cubes. Free. Visitwww.potomacfiberartsgallery.com.

Bagels and Bach Concert SeriesReturns. Through Jan. 8, 11 a.m.-1p.m. at the Durant Arts Center, 1605Cameron St. Enjoy classical musicfrom Washington MetropolitanPhilharmonic Association’s YouthOrchestras while eating a lightbrunch. Advance registration:resident $10/Nonresident $15.Children under 5 years old are free.For more information, contact CherylAnn Colton at 703-746-5565 or [email protected]

American Arabesque ArtExhibition. Through Jan. 12, 5-10p.m. at Durant Arts Center, 1605Cameron St. An art exhibition bycontemporary local Arab Americansand Arab artists. Free curator tourson Jan. 5 and 6 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.Free. 703-746-5565

DASHing Words in Motion. ThroughFeb. 1, The City of Alexandria Officeof the Arts and the Alexandria TransitCompany have joined forces to host apoetry contest “DASHing Words inMotion.” Possible inspirational ideasmight stem from the AlexandriaTransit Company’s DASH buses mottowhich is “Keep Alexandria Moving,”or bus stops, neighborhoods, roads,

or other modes of transportationwithin the City of Alexandria.www.alexandriava.gov/Arts, email [email protected], or by phoneat 703-746-5565.

Multiple Exposures Gallery.Through Feb. 12 at Torpedo FactoryArt Center, #312, 105 North UnionSt. Colleen Henderson’s A Study inContrasts, and Sandy Lebrun-Evan’sMcDowell County, WVA. Artistreception is Jan. 14, 2-4 p.m.www.multipleexposuresgallery.com

Making as Meditation withKathryn Coneway. SecondWednesday of each month, 7-8:30p.m. at St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church,8531 Riverside Road. Each sessionbegins with a short reading and abrief introduction to materials.Silence for making and meditationlasts an hour followed by sharingimages or insights gained through theprocess, if desired. Children able toparticipate in silence are welcome tocome with a parent’s quietsupervision. RSVP not necessary forattendance, but helpful for planningpurposes. [email protected].

New Frontiers in Textile Artthrough Jan. 15 at the TorpedoFactory Art Center, 105 N. Union St.a new exhibition in Target Gallery,the contemporary exhibition spacefor the, turns an eye toward the

future of textile art. Public reception:Thursday, Dec. 8, 6–8 p.m.; Juror’sTalk at 7 p.m.

Mercy in Alexandria WalkingTour. Sundays at 1:30 p.m. atAlexandria Visitors Center, 221 KingSt. Experience an inside access tourof 19th century Alexandria. Inspiredby the PBS mini-series “MercyStreet,” accompany a trained militaryhistorian through Civil War-eraAlexandria and learn the actualhistory behind the TV show. Shorttours are $15, private tours for fiveare $149. Visitwww.dcmilitarytour.com for more.

The Lyceum: 175 Years of LocalHistory. Ongoing, Monday-Saturday10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m.at The Lyceum, 201 S. WashingtonSt. On view in the museum’sColdsmith Gallery, the historicalobjects and images featuredrepresent The Lyceum, thecommunity at work, andcommemorations and celebrations.Throughout the exhibition, visitorsare invited to “be the curator” andthink about why the various artifactsare in the museum’s collection, andabout how tangible representatives ofthe past help tell the story ofAlexandria’s history. Free. Visitwww.alexandriahistory.org for more.

Medical Care for the Civil WarSoldier Exhibit. Ongoing at the

Fort Ward museum, 4301 W.Braddock Road. ongoing exhibitwhich features original medicalinstruments and equipment from theCivil War period and information onUnion Army hospital sites inAlexandria. Free. Visitwww.alexandriava.gov/fortward formore.

Alexandria’s Nurses and HospitalsDuring the Civil War. Ongoing atThe Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St.An exhibit on the life of ClarissaJones, a nurse at The Lyceumhospital during the Civil War. Thetrue story of a nurse in Alexandriaduring the war, drawing parallelswith characters portrayed in the PBSdrama “Mercy Street,” withreferences to the experiences of othernurses, such as Anne Reading, whoworked in the Mansion Househospital, and Jane Woolsey, whoserved at the Fairfax Seminaryhospital. Admission is $2. Visitwww.alexandriava.gov/lyceum formore.

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

3 Ways To Bust New Year’s ResolutionsEntertainment

Calendar

Diet got you down?Here are some placesto break free.

Appetite

to a plethora of pasta options for dinner toa sweet treat to finish up the evening, therestaurant has everything you need to carb-load for the days ahead.

Coming in with a crowd? The family-styleTrio de Pasta might hit the spot. Choosethree pasta entrees from the menu — per-haps a spaghetti con polpette (meatballs),pasta con funghi (mushrooms), and theagnolotti (pasta filled with burrata cheeseand spices) — and get ready to break breadwith the table. Don’t feel like sharing? Trythe risotto of the day for one — and if themushroom variety is on the menu, order itat once.

BurgerFi, 111 N. Pitt St.Nothing busts the dietary budget quite as

quickly as a hearty burger, that’s for sure.And BurgerFi — a relative newcomer to theneighborhood — has just what the doctorordered (so to speak) to delve into a ca-loric heyday.

When perusing the menu, there’s reallyonly one deep end to dive in — the Break-fast All Day (aka BAD) Burger. A pattytopped with a fried egg, hash browns,cheese, grilled onions, maple syrup, andketchup, it will make you forget about yourrice cake in mere seconds. And vegetariansaren’t left out, either — the slightly morehealthy Vegefi burger is waiting in the wingsfor just such an occasion. Grab some onionrings or fries on the side, and you’ll be backto your old ways in no time.low flavors of the original. In fact, go ahead

and pick up a few — they’ll keep for later.

Carluccio’s, 100 King St.Admittedly, there’s nothing in the culinary

landscape so satisfying as the carby good-

BurgerFi sports quite a few offerings that are poised to break dietaryresolutions.

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


NOW HIRING!

We are looking for SALES ASSOCIATES who have a

passion for food with the ability to learn/share our

premium extra virgin oils and balsamic vinegars

and pass their passion to our customers.

All inquiries please drop off your resume

at EVOO at Mamma’s Market 7609 Fordson Rd., Alexandria,

VA 22306 or email to [email protected]

Please also include a phone number.

Dealers

★ Mount Vernon Antique Center ★8101 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria

703-619-5100www.mtvantiques.com

Discover the secret source of many collectors, dealers,decorators and shoppers with “good eyes” and great taste.

Followus onFacebook &Twitter

Exp. 1/31/17

First lesson in the series is free for non-center members. To continue lessons,a yearly membership to all SeniorCenter programs is $48. Call 703-765-4573 to sign up.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Second Thursday Music.Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. 7 p.m.Second Thursday of every month.Visit nvfaa.org to view concertcalendar and listen to upcomingSecond Thursday Music artists.

The Monday Morning Birdwalktakes place weekly, rain or shine(except during electrical storms,strong winds, or icy trails), at 7 a.m.

(8 a.m. November through March), isfree, requires no reservation and isopen to all. Birders meet in theparking lot at the park’s entrance at3701 Lockheed Blvd. Direct questionsto park staff during normal businesshours at 703-768-2525.

Civil War Sundays. 1-5 p.m. atAlexandria Archaeology Museum,105 North Union St., #327. Learnmore about the Civil War as itoccurred in Alexandria. Finddioramas, newspaper articles andmore. Free. Visitwww.alexandriaarchaeology.org.

Doggy Happy Hour. Starting April 5,Tuesdays through October 5-8 p.m.at Jackson 20 and Hotel MonacoAlexandria, 480 King St. DoggyHappy Hour at Jackson 20 and theHotel Monaco Alexandria offersspecials on cocktails and beers plustreats and water for caninecompanions. Free, but drinks soldseparately. Visit www.monaco-alexandria.com for more.

Baseball Boat to Nationals Park.Departs from the Alexandria Marina,1 Cameron St. The PotomacRiverboat Company offers baseballenthusiasts the chance to avoid thecrowds and take a leisurely cruisefrom Old Town Alexandria toNationals Park along the scenicPotomac River. Admission: one-way$20; round-trip $25 Monday-Thursday; round-trip $28 Friday-Sunday. Visit www.baseballboat.comfor more.

Wake Up Wednesdays featuring ThePop Up Cafe. 7-9:30 a.m. onWednesday’s near the King StreetTunnel - Carlyle Entrance locatednear 2000 Duke Street near MotleyFool. The cafe will feature coffee, livemusic to help commuters start theday off right and donuts from SugarShack. [email protected]

CAMPS, CLASSES AND WORKSHOPSCommunity Dance. 7:30-9:30 p.m.

every third Friday at Hollin HallSenior Center, 1500 ShenandoahRoad. Live music. Tickets are $4. Call703-765-4573.

Life Drawing. Del Ray Artisans offers arange of open life drawing sessionsfor anyone to develop life-drawingskills further. Drop-in for the sessionand bring supplies to draw or paintlive models. Fee ranges from $8-$12.All skill levels are welcome. Del RayArtisans is located at 2704 MountVernon Ave. Visitwww.TheDelRayArtisans.org for aschedule.

Community Yoga. Wednesdays 9:30-10:30 a.m. and Sundays 7:30-8:45p.m. at 532YOGA, 532 N.Washington St. Suite 100. Noexperience required to participate in

weekly community class. Suggested$10 donation. Visitwww.532yoga.com.

THROUGH JAN. 6Mount Vernon Holiday Tours. 9

a.m.-4 p.m. at 3200 Mount VernonHighway. Tour the Mansion, watchhistoric chocolate-makingdemonstrations, and meet Aladdinthe Camel. Join daily “Camel Talks”and learn more about the rareanimals at George Washington’shome during the holiday season.Hear from costumed friends andfamily of the Washingtons tell storiesof Christmas traditions of the past.Mount Vernon is open every day ofthe year, including Christmas Dayand New Year’s Day. 703-799-5203or www.mountvernon.org. Adults$17, ages 6-11, $9, ages 5 and underfree.

Holiday Ornament Making. 9 a.m.-4p.m. at 3200 Mount VernonHighway. On select weekends, makea Mount Vernon holiday woodenornament. For children ages 5-10,accompanied by an adult. Included inadmission. Supplies limited. Adults$17, ages 6-11, $9, ages 5 and underfree.

Holiday Teddy Bear Teas. 9 a.m.-4p.m. at 3200 Mount VernonHighway. On select weekends, bringa favorite stuffed animal friend tohave “tea” with “Lady Washington.”This special experience will alsoinclude a hands-on seasonal activity.For ages 4-11, accompanied by anadult. Refreshments provided. $5 inaddition to general admission. Adults$17, ages 6-11, $9, ages 5 and underfree. 703-799-5203 orwww.mountvernon.org.

THURSDAY/JAN. 5Cuban Cruise Informational

Meeting. 5-6:30 p.m. at CarrWorkplaces, 500 Montgomery St.,Suite 400. The Alexandria Chamberof Commerce is partnering with theArlington Chamber of Commerce fora four-day trip to [email protected]

FRIDAY/JAN. 6The Cecilian Players, Blessed

Sacrament’s ChamberEnsemble. Blessed SacramentCatholic Church, 1427 W. BraddockRoad. The concert is free butcontributions to support the concertsare [email protected] or703-998-6100 x 103

Choral Evensong on the Feast ofthe Epiphany. 7:30 p.m. at St.Paul’s Episcopal Church, 228 South

Entertainment

Acoustic Music LiveAcoustic artists Friction Farm and Michael Bowers & Siobhan Quinn will perform Sun-day, Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. at the George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive.Tickets are $18/$15 for advance sales and members, contact [email protected] or703-380-3151.


Pitt St. Grant Hellmers, organist-choirmaster, will direct the AdultChoir in a Choral Evensong on theFeast of the Epiphany. Music byAyleward, Stanford, Archer,Palestrina will be featured. The ThreeWise Men will appear at this service.703-549-3312,[email protected]

Free Acapella Concert. 7-8:30 p.m.at Lloyd House, 220 N. WashingtonSt. The seven woman acapella choirhad the honor to spread the light ofthe Lucia Winter Solstice tradition.The tradition is a combination of theItalian Saint Lucy and the oldScandinavian legends of the evilspirits of 13th of December and isone of Sweden’s most cherishedtraditions. Free. 703-746-4554

JAN. 6-29Simply Abstract” Art Exhibit. At Del

Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 MountVernon Ave. Features local areaartists’ expressions of abstract artusing shape, form, color, and line in2- and 3-dimensional work. Artiststossed their colors and media in theair to release their inner energy inthis display of artwork. OpeningReception: Friday, Jan. 6, 7-9 p.m. atDel Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704Mount Vernon Ave.DelRayArtisans.org/exhibits

FRIDAY-SATURDAY/JAN. 6-7ROAM Winterfest. 8:30-11:30 a.m. at

3701 Mt. Vernon Ave. The shows willbe a benefit for Rose Cruz’s family;Cruz was a local Alexandria who wasfatally injured when she was hit by acar. www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500

SATURDAY/JAN. 7Nowell Sing We. 7-9 p.m. at the St

Mary Catholic Church Lyceum, 313Duke St. Alkemie Medieval MusicEnsemble will present a concert ofMedieval and Renaissance vocalmusic for three sopranos and vielles(medieval fiddles) and instrumentaldances in celebration of [email protected] 202-966-7298 www.alkemie.org

Parade of Plants. 10-11 a.m. at GreenSpring Gardens, 4603 Green SpringRoad. Look at the history of the RoseParade, see close-up photos of thefloats and go on a walk in thegardens to collect plant materials.Afterwards make a winterydecoration from natural materials inthe tradition of the floats. $6 Registeronline at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes using code2901813501 or call 703-642-5173.

Zombie Drama Camp Registration.10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the West PotomacTheatre Department, 6500 QuanderRoad. Open to students 3rd-8thgrades.www.westpotomactheatre.org

SUNDAY/JAN. 8Art Show and Reception. 1-3 p.m. at

Green Spring Gardens, 4603 GreenSpring Road, Alexandria. Receptionfor the Vienna Arts Society show atthe Horticulture Center and HistoricHouse from Dec. 20-Feb. 19. Free.703-642-5173

FocusMusic Concert. 7 p.m. at theGeorge Washington MasonicMemorial, 101 Callahan Drive.FocusMusic presents folk andacoustic artists Friction Farm andMichael Bowers & Siobhan Quinn.$18/$15 for advance sales andmembers [email protected] 703-380-3151

MONDAY/JAN. 9Yoga for Gardeners 9:30 to 10:30

a.m. at Green Spring Gardens, 4603Green Spring Road. This classfeatures an introduction to the

Vinyasa method which helpsparticipants increase the strength,flexibility and endurance necessaryfor gardening. Register $91www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes using code 2901262401 orcall 703-642-5173

Garden Sprouts: Nature Playgroup10-11:30 a.m. at Green SpringGardens, 4603 Green Spring Road.Preschooler do nature-themedactivities while other playgroupparents can meet one Monday amonth. $6 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes using code2901028701 or call 703-642-5173

JAN. 9-20Christmas Tree Recycling. Residents

who receive city refuse collectionmay place Christmas trees at the curbfor recycling on their regular trashcollection day, beginning Monday,Jan. 9, through Friday, Jan. 22.Remove stands, lights, anddecorations from trees. Seealexandriava.gov/YardWaste.

TUESDAY/JAN. 10NVCC Community Chorus

invitation. Rehearsals start for allinterested singers to join for thespring 2017 season. No audition isrequired. Join by registering for thisone-credit class at Northern VirginiaCommunity College, Alexandriacampus. Rehearsals are 7 p.m. onTuesdays at the NVCC Alexandriacampus, 3001 N. Beauregard, withsome optional extra Saturdaymorning rehearsals. The collegewaives tuition for seniors 60 andolder. Dr. Mark Whitmire, Director,703-845-6097 [email protected]

WEDNESDAY-THURSDAY/JAN. 11-12Musical Comedian Stephen Lynch.

7:30 p.m. at the The Birchmere, 3701Mt. Vernon Ave. $25.

www.birchmere.com

JAN. 11-MARCH 1Jitterbug/Lindy Hop classes. 7-9

p.m. at Nick’s Nightclub, 642 S.Pickett St. In the beginner class, learnthe three footwork patterns that arethe basis of all forms of swingdancing: six-count, eight-count LindyWhip and Circle, and Charleston. Theintermediate class builds upon thefoundation to help develop avocabulary of dance moves that areeasy to use on the social dance floor.www.gottaswing.com

THURSDAY/JAN. 12Veterans Curation Program Meet

and Greet. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at theAlexandria Laboratory, 816 N. SaintAsaph St. Tour the facility and meetthe new group of laboratorytechnicians and learn about theprogress made over the past six and ahalf years. 571-312-4717 orwww.VeteransCurationProgram.org

“The Hidden World of Food in theCivil War.” 7:30 p.m. at the LectureHall of The Lyceum, 201 S.Washington St. $10 per person andmay be purchased in advance at TheLyceum or by going toshop.alexandriava.gov. Reservationsare required, space is limited.alexandriava.gov/Lyceum.

SATURDAY/JAN. 14Movie Night at Del Ray Artisans. 7-

9 p.m. at Del Ray Artisans, 2704Mount Vernon Ave. Featuring“Pollock.” Learn about the life andwork of 20th century artist JacksonPollock. DelRayArtisans.org/event/pollock-movie

Stuff the Bus Food Drive for UCM.9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at Shoppers atMount Vernon Plaza, 7660 RichmondHighway. Annual food drive hostedby Fairfax County Government and

leader Tom Nardone to scan the riverfor waterfowl and enjoy a walkthrough the marsh and woodlandareas. Sponsored by the NorthernVirginia Bird Club. www.nvabc.org/

Volunteer Alexandria Open House.4-7 p.m. at 123 North Alfred St., 1stfloor board room. Meet friends andlearn how to get engaged in thecommunity. Visitwww.volunteeralexandria.org

Iconography: Prayer in Images.7:30-9 p.m. at St. Aidan’s EpiscopalChurch, 8531 Riverside Road. Learnhow to read the symbolism in this artform and how icons are used inOrthodox Christian churches andhomes with Laura Clerici. 703-360-4220

THURSDAY/JAN. 26Songwriter Scott Miller and Mac

McAnnally in Concert. 7:30 p.m.at The Birchmere, 3701 MountVernon Ave. 703-549-7500 orwww.birchmere.com

SATURDAY/JAN. 28“Hands on: Collaborate

Abstractly” 2-3:30 p.m. at Del RayArtisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave.Workshop students partner up tocreate abstract art.DelRayArtisans.org/event/hands-on

Chairman’s Voyage: To BoldlyGo.... 7 p.m.at Alexandria Chamberof Commerce, 2834 Duke St. Hearthe future of the City of Alexandriaand welcome our new Board ChairDak Hardwick and celebrate thepossibilities to come. [email protected]

SUNDAY/JAN. 29Marine Chamber Orchestra Plays

Water Music. 2 p.m. at Rachel M.Schlesinger Concert Hall and ArtsCenter, 4915 East Campus Drive.Music by George Frideric Handel,Ned Rorem and John Knowles Paine.703-845-6156 orwww.schlesingercenter.com

MONDAY-SUNDAY/JAN. 30-FEB. 5Restaurant Week. Participating

restaurants offer multi-course $35dinner, $22 lunch, and – for the firsttime - $22 brunch menus, exclusivelyavailable during Restaurant Week.www.rwdmv.com

TUESDAY/FEB. 7Iconography: Prayer in Images.

7:30-9 p.m. at St. Aidan’s EpiscopalChurch, 8531 Riverside Road. Learnhow to read the symbolism in this artform and how icons are used inOrthodox Christian churches andhomes with Laura Clerici. 703-360-4220

FEB. 7-MARCH 19Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery.

Torpedo Factory, Studio 29, 105 N.Union St. Cosmic Sights and Sounds,comes as the winter night sky’s grandcollection of brilliant stars begins togive way to the vernal equinox. Thisshow will also highlight the work offeatured artists Carol Bodin, MickeyKunkle, and Lynda Prioleau.www.Potomacfiberartsgallery.com

TUESDAY/FEB. 14Submission Deadline. 2017

Needlework Show & Sale mail-inentries: Jan. 11-Feb. 14; walk-inentries: Feb. 12-14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.Looking for needlework pieces thatshowcase many techniques in bothtraditional and contemporarydesigns. [email protected]

MTV Transportation to stock UnitedCommunity Ministries food pantry.List of most need items atwww.ucmagency.org.

TUESDAY/JAN. 17Alexandria Chamber of Commerce

Networking Breakfast. 7:30-9a.m. at Carluccio’s, 100 King St.Focus on roundtable powernetworking and giving attendees thechance to exchange business cards,develop new prospects, and share a60-second commercial with eachtable. Members $35, Non-Members$50, Members at the Door $40.www.alexchamber.com

SATURDAY/JAN. 21Family Owl Outing at Huntley

Meadows. 4:30-6 p.m. at HuntleyMeadows Park, 3701 Lockheed Blvd.Discover the secret world of owls andlearn what makes these raptorsexcellent predators of the night. Afterthe presentation, hike the trail atHuntley and hopefully hear or spotone of the park’s resident owls. $7.703-768-2525 orwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley-meadows-park/.

TUESDAY/JAN. 24Homeschool Program:

Firefighting Technology. 1-2:30p.m. at Friendship Firehouse, 107 S.Alfred St. See how fire-fightingtechnology has evolved and test thescientific concepts behind how thehistoric equipment worked. Ticketsare $8 per child, adults free. Pre-registration is required. Visitshop.alexandriava.gov.

WEDNESDAY/JAN. 25Dyke Marsh Walk 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

at the Dyke Marsh, 6401 GeorgeWashington Memorial Pkwy. Join

Entertainment

“Simply Abstract,” artexhibit (Jan. 6-29) atDel Ray Artisans, is anexploration of abstractcompositions usingshape, form, color, andline by local area art-ists. Opening Recep-tion: Friday, Jan. 6,7-9 p.m.DelRayArtisans.org/exhibits


Zone 3 Ad Deadline:

Tuesday Noon

703-778-9411

Zone 3: • Alexandria

• Mount VernonClassifiedClassified

CITATION DOCKET NO. G.L.c. 210, 6 NO16A0067AD

Commonwealth of MassachusettsThe Trial CourtProbate and Family Court

In the matter of Brandon Alexander Aguirre

To:Rosbin Aguirre, last known of Alexandria, in the State of VirginiaA petition has been presented to said court by:Cynthia O”Grady of Stoughton, MA

Joshua O’Grady of Stoughton, MArequesting for leave to adopt said child and that the name of the child be changed to

Brandon Alexander O’Grady

Norfolk Probate and Family Court35 Shawmut RoadCanton, MA 02021781-830-1200

If you object to this adoption you are entitled to the appoint-ment of an attorney if you are in indigent person. An indigent person is defined by the SJC Rule 3:10 The defini-tion includes but is not limited to persons receiving TAFDC, EACDC, poverty related veteran’s benefits, Medicaid, and SSI. The Court will determine if you are indigent. Contact an Assis-tant Judicial Case Manager or Adoption Clerk of the Court on or before the date listed below to obtain the necessary forms.

IF YOU DESIRE TO OBJECT THERETO, YOU OR YOUR ATTORNEY MUST FILE A WRITTEN APPEARANCE IN SAID COURT AT:

Canton

ON OR BEFORE TEN O’CLOCK IN THE MORNING (10:00AM) ON:

3/29/2017WITNESS, Hon. John D. Casey, First Justice of this CourtDecember, 23, 2016

21 Announcements 21 Announcements

Obituary

John W. Trumbo, 89, passed away on December 29th, 2016 in Columbia, South Carolina. He was born on September 26, 1927 in Washington, D.C. to Alice Jane Holder and George Thomas Trumbo, and grew up in Arlington and Richmond, Virginia. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School inRichmond and the Virginia Military Institute, Class of 1948A. He served two terms in the armed forces from 1948-1953 as a First Lieutenant.

John met his beloved wife Barbara Jean Pryse in Washington, D.C., and they married in 1949. He was dedicated to his family and church. He was a deacon and Sunday School teacher for more than 50 years, first at Plymouth Haven Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia and then at Stuarts Draft BaptistChurch. He owned and operated an IGA grocery store in Alexandria and then in Stuarts Draft.

He will be greatly missed by his wife of 67 years, his daughter Anne (Erick), son Steve (Sue), grandsons David (Shannon), Andrew, Matthew, Keith, Will and Nathan, and great-grandchil-dren Gavin and Blakeley. He was predeceased by his son George Thomas Trumbo II, sister Mary Edna Ritchie,and brother Robert Holder Trumbo.

A memorial service to celebrate John’s life will be held at Stuarts Draft Baptist Church, 2517 Stuarts Draft Hwy., Stuarts Draft, VA on Sunday, January 8, 2017 at 3 p.m. There will be a graveside service for the family on Monday, January 9, 2017 at Fairview Cemetery, Culpeper, Virginia at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s name to the GeorgeThomas Trumbo Scholarship at VMI, P.O. Box 932, Lexington VA 24450.

Condolences may be given at clore-english.com Arrangements have been entrusted to Clore-English Funeral Home, 11190 James Monroe Highway, Culpeper, Virginia.


OBITUARY

Mrs. Mary Nell (“Nellie”) Thomas Lawrence, wife of Fred and mother of Eric and Chris, passed away in the early morning of Wednesday, the 21st of December 2016 in Alexandria, Va. She was seventy-four.

Nellie was born in Houston, Texas on the 8th of December 1942, to Marcus Wray and Martha Elizabeth Hutchins Thomas. She graduated in 1961 from Lamar High School in Houston and matriculated at Southern Methodist University. After marriage, she completed her Bachelor of Arts in Educationand History in 1965 at LSU-New Orleans.

Nellie and Fred met on a blind date in 1959 and quickly became high school sweethearts. Their life long journey of enduring love was cemented when they were married in Hous-ton, Texas on the 25th of July 1964. The couple moved to New Orleans where her two sons, Eric and Chris were born. She provided unwavering support and guidance for her family as they moved to McLean, Va., Denver, Co., and finally Alexandria, Va.

Nellie had two passions in life: the unconditional love of her family and a deep intellectual curiosity for lifelong learning and education. Nellie was a certified elementary teacher, a G.E.D coordinator and a docent at the Woodlawn Plantation, Frank Lloyd Wright Pope-Leighey House and the NationalPortrait Gallery. Always the active learner and volunteer, she was a compulsive reader and was involved with several organizations including P.E.O. International - Chapter J, Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia, Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, Smithsonian programs, and OSHER LifelongLearning. Regularly attending plays, concerts, operas and exhibits, she also loved hiking, backpacking, fishing and skiing in the Rocky Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains. Travel to historic or scenic sights and towns occupied many extended weekends

Nellie is survived by her husband of fifty-two years, John Frederick; sons, John Eric and his wife Patricia Thompson Lawrence, and Christopher Alan and his wife Catherine Ann Sheeler Lawrence; and her six loving grandchildren Sadie Oxford Lawrence, John Patrick Lawrence, Beaumont Cunningham Lawrence, Christina Elizabeth Lawrence, John Thomas Lawrence and Mary Caroline Lawrence. She is also survived by her brothers Marcus and Robert HutchinsThomas along with sister-in-love Lynda Sims Lawrence and nephews Father Robert and Michael Graham Lawrence, and James Thomas.

A memorial service for friends and family will be held at eleven o’clock in the morning on Wednesday, the 28th of December in the Chapel of the Demaine Funeral Home, 520 South Washington Street, Alexandria, Virginia. Immediately following, all are invited to join the family at a reception atthe same location.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions in Nellie’s memory be directed to the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, Smithsonian Institution Campaign, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, or the charity of one’s choice.




Missing YorkshireTrimmed, 8 Yrs, “Maui”

female neuter, red and greencollar, 5 pounds. Very Shy.

Do not chase. Has chip.Sighted eve 30 Dec.

BelleView Area

[email protected]

32 Lost 32 Lost

JENNIFER SMITH ❖ Serving the Area Since 1995

➣ Speed Up SlowComputers

➣ Virus Removal➣ Computer Setup➣ Help with Windows 8 & 10

571-265-2038

HDICOMPUTER SOLUTIONS

[email protected]

101 Computers 101 Computers

21 Announcements

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

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

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

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

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

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


MEDICO, Frank (age 92). Born in South BraintreeMassachusetts and resided in Mt. Vernon, VA for 52years died on Friday December 30, 2016. He exem-plified care, love and a person who always placedhelping and concern for others first.

He is survived by his adult daughters Jane andPatricia Medico, son Fred Medico, Daughter-in-lawSusan Medico, four grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren.

Friends may visit at the DEMAINE FUNERAL HOME,520 S. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314 wherethe family will be present on Sunday January 8thfrom 2PM to 5PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will beoffered on Monday January 9th at 10A.M. at St.Mary’s Catholic Church, 310 S. Royal St., Alexandria,VA 22314 with Interment to follow at QuanticoNational Cemetery at 1:00pm. In Lieu of flowerscontributions may be made to St. Jude children’sResearch Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN38105 or Shriners Hospital for Children, 2900 RockyPoint Dr. Tampa FL 33607.

Obituary

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Painting, Pressure Washing • Ceramic, Hardwood Flooring, Refinish Floors, Deck Reflooring• Build Deck, Fence, Patios, Retaining Walls • Concrete Driveway, Brick or Stone Sidewalk

• Building Maintenance • Residential, Commercial • Foreclosures, Realtors WelcomeServing Northern Virginia, D.C., Maryland • Licensed and Insured

HAND & HAND HANDYMAN LLCGeneral Remodeling • Residential & CommercialHAND & HAND HANDYMAN LLCGeneral Remodeling • Residential & CommercialHAND & HAND HANDYMAN LLCGeneral Remodeling • Residential & CommercialHAND & HAND HANDYMAN LLCGeneral Remodeling • Residential & CommercialHAND & HAND HANDYMAN LLCGeneral Remodeling • Residential & CommercialHAND & HAND HANDYMAN LLCGeneral Remodeling • Residential & CommercialHAND & HAND HANDYMAN LLCGeneral Remodeling • Residential & CommercialHAND & HAND HANDYMAN LLCGeneral Remodeling • Residential & Commercial

703-296-6409703-296-6409703-296-6409703-296-6409703-296-6409703-296-6409703-296-6409703-296-6409703-296-6409 Hnhhandyman.com

HANDYMAN HANDYMAN HANDYMAN HANDYMAN

A&S Landscaping

703-863-7465LICENSED

Serving All of N. Virginia

• All Concrete work• Retaining Walls • Patios• Decks • Porches (incl. screened) • Erosion & Grading Solutions• French Drains • Sump Pumps• Driveway Asphalt Sealing

IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTS

Remodeling Homes, Flooring,Kitchen & Bath, Windows,

Siding, Roofing, Additions &Patios, Custom Deck, PaintingWe Accept All Major Credit Cards

Licensed, Insured, Bonded • Free Estimates • Class A Lic

RN. CONTRACTORS, INC.

Phone: 703-887-3827E-mail: [email protected]

www.rncontractors.com

J.E.S. ServicesYour neighborhood company since 1987

703-912-6886

Landscaping & Construction

All work Guaranteed

• Planting & Landscaping Design• Drainage & Water Problems• Concrete Driveways, Replacement or New• Patios and Walks • Masonry Work or Dry Laid• Paver, Flagstone, Brick, any style you choose• Retaining walls of all types

Free Estimates - Fully Licensed & Insured

LAWN SERVICE LAWN SERVICE

Partial or Full. Kit. Floors, Backsplashes.Specializing in Ceramic, Porcelain, Glass Tiles

and Natural Stones. Also repair work. 35 yrs exp.

BATHROOM REMODELING

703-250-2872Licensed • Bonded • Insured

www.brennan-tile.com

by Brennan Bath and Tile

TILE/MARBLE TILE/MARBLE

Quality Tree Service& Landscaping

Reasonable prices. Licensed & insured.

24 Hour EmergencyTree Service

25 years of experience – Free estimates 703-868-5358

Summer Cleanup...Tree removal, topping & pruning,shrubbery trimming, mulching,leaf removal, planting, hauling,gutter cleaning, retaining walls,

drainage problems, etc.

TREE SERVICE TREE SERVICE

FIREWOOD

FIREWOODMixed Seasoned Hardwood

$150 half cord$250 full cord

Call Joe at301-856-4436

301-602-9528 Cell

LANDSCAPING

SOD, Mulch, Clean-UpLeaf Removal

Hauling.703-863-7465

A&S CONSTRUCTION

EmploymentEmployment

Jr. Kindergarden Team Teacher

KIDDIE COUNTRYDevelopmental Learning Center

Burke, VA 22015 [email protected] Fax: 703-644-0073 Phone: 703-644-0066

Kiddie Country is accepting applications for a co-teaching position is one of our Jr.

Kindergarten programs. 6-8 hours per day, M-F. Applicant must have a degree

in Early Childhood or Elementary Education. Team teachers will work together to appropriately conduct a planned semi-structured program

supported by a curriculm specialist. Please apply if you are caring, motivated and committed to high quality education for preschool learners. Applicants are

invited to call Kiddie Country directly for further information or an appointment.

EOE

Saturday, January 21 at 9:00 A.M.Presentation begins at 9:20

Learn more about teaching at our school and findingjobs in private schools. Teachers of diverse back-

grounds and experiences are encouraged to attend.Register online: www.sssas.org/educator1000 St. Stephen’s Rd., Alexandria, VA 22304

703-212-2284

is hosting an

EDUCATOR OPEN HOUSE

Educational InternshipsUnusual opportunity to learn many aspects ofthe newspaper business. Internships available inreporting, photography, research, graphics.Opportunities for students, and for adults consid-ering change of career. Unpaid. [email protected]

CLASSIFIEDDEADLINESZones 1, 5, 6............................Mon @ noonZones 2, 3, 4 ...........................Tues @ noon

E-mail ad with zone choices to:[email protected]

or call Andrea @ 703-778-9411

EMPLOYMENTDEADLINESZones 1, 5, 6............................Mon @ noonZones 2, 3, 4 ...........................Tues @ noon

E-mail ad with zone choices to:[email protected] or call Andrea @ 703-778-9411

ZONESZone 1: The Reston Connection The Oak Hill/Herndon ConnectionZone 2: The Springfield Connection The Burke Connection The Fairfax Connection The Fairfax Station/Clifton/

Lorton ConnectionZone 3: The Alexandria Gazette Packet

The Mount Vernon GazetteZone 4: Centre View North Centre View SouthZone 5: The Potomac AlmanacZone 6: The Arlington Connection

The Vienna/Oakton ConnectionThe McLean ConnectionThe Great Falls Connection

Newspapers & Online

HOW TO SUBMIT ADS TO

An expert is someone who knows some of the worst

mistakes that can be made in hissubject and how to avoid them.

-Werner Heisenberg

From Page 5

STOLEN VEHICLES8000 block of Pantano Place, 2001 Pontiac

Grand Am

DEC. 29LARCENIES7400 block of Mount Vernon Square Center,

merchandise from business8500 block of Richmond Highway, bicycle from

business

DEC. 28LARCENIES2600 block of Indian Drive, property from resi-

dence3100 block of Lockheed Boulevard, wallet from

business2500 block of Parkers Lane, property from resi-

dence

DEC. 27LARCENIES8600 block of Beekman Place, merchandise from

residence3100 block of Brosar Court, door from residence8400 block of Diablo Court, GPS from vehicle3000 block of Furman Lane, license plates from

vehicle3100 block of Lockheed Boulevard, merchandise

from business6500 block of Potomac Avenue, tools from con-

struction site6800 block of Richmond Highway, tools from

vehicle8700 block of Richmond Highway, cash from

business8200 block of Russell Road, beer and cigarettes

from business6300 block of South Kings Highway, merchan-

dise from business7100 block of Westfield Court, credit card from

residenceSTOLEN VEHICLES8700 block of Cooper Road, 2008 Nissan Altima

DEC. 22LARCENIES6700 block of Richmond Highway, merchandise

from business7910 block of Richmond Highway, wallet from

a business

DEC. 21LARCENIES7200 block of Fairchild Drive, wallet from per-

son.8600 block of Beekman Place, property from

vehicle.6300 block of South Kings Highway, merchan-

dise from business.

DEC. 20BURGLARY: 3300 block of Pelican Place, be-

tween Dec.3 and Dec. 9. An investigationdetermined entry was forced through a window.Electronics and jewelry were reported missing. Theincident was not reported until Dec. 19.

LARCENIES7400 block of Mount Vernon Square Center, li-

quor from business6600 block of Richmond Highway, jacket and

hats from business6700 block of Richmond Highway, merchandise

from business7700 block of Richmond Highway, merchandise

from business7700 block of Richmond Highway, tools from

business8500 block of South Lawn Court, package from

residence

Crime

WriteThe Gazette welcomes letters

on local issues.Send to:

[email protected]


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