Vol. XIX, No. 48 Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A...

Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ November 27 - December 3, 2008 ❖ 1www.ConnectionNewspapers.com

November 26, 2008Vol. XIX, No. 48 Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A Connection Paper

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See Belvoir, Page 22

See Fashion, Page 3

By Chuck Hagee

Gazette

Community and political leadersfrom throughout Northern Vir-ginia got not only a statisticalbriefing but also a glimpse of

21st Century Fort Belvoir during the annualBase Community Relations Breakfast Nov.20 at the Post’s Community Center.

“This morning’s program will be a littledifferent than what you have been used toat this breakfast in the past. There will bemore focus on the soldiers of this base,” saidFort Belvoir Installation Commander Col.Jerry L. Blixt in opening the 90-minute brief-ing and question/answer session that fo-cused on changes at the base as a result ofthe 2005 Base Realignment and ClosureReport known as BRAC.

That introduction was followed by a shortvideo identifying soldiers who served un-der fire in the Iraq and Afghanistan warzones. It was the first showing of the video,which highlighted the valor of individualsoldiers, such as Spec. Monica Brown, only

By Steve Hibbard

The Gazette

With Redskinettes and Wizards cheerlead-ers serving as models, West PotomacAcademy fashion design and TV produc-

tion students got to work behind the scenes at Fash-ion Forward, a fashion show that benefited the HoopDreams Scholarship Fund and featured designerEddie Van’s iKY’s clothing line.

ARRIVING AT 4 p.m. last Friday and working inthe back of the Shadow Room, a lounge at 2131 KStreet, NW, until 10 p.m., the six junior and seniorgirls helped dress and style the clothes for the mod

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” was presented by the Mount VernonCommunity Children’s Theatre last weekend. The production wasdirected and choreographed by Gae Schmidt. Willa Brown returned

as music director; Cassie Sauer, stage manager; Laura Marshall, assistant pro-ducer; Susy Coffey, sound design and Bill Johnson, stage design. Dozens offamilies and friends volunteered for set construction, the stage crew, lighting,graphic design, props, seamstresses, publicity, make-up, and photography.

For more information on the Children’s Theatre, call 703-360-0686 or visitwww.mvcct.org.

Bringing Beauty — andBeast — to Stage

“

Belle (Jenna Kraynak) appears in town to pick up anotherbook to read.

More photos on Page 6

The spoon (Sanou Diallo), the knife (Will-iam Havranek) and the fork (Lillian Gillard)introduce themselves to their new guest.

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Creating the Army’s21st century premiermilitary installation.

LinkingBelvoir withCommunity

Mai Tran shows the outfit that she puttogether.

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West Potomac Academy students work with models at Eddie Van’s iKY fashion show.Students Learn Fashion from Behind the Scenes

West Potomac student Lucy Neer works backstage withthe models.

2 ❖ Mount Vernon Gazette ❖ November 27 - December 3, 2008 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com


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From Page 1

News

els.Outside, a bouncer checked guests’ IDs

in a roped-off area. Inside, people mingledunder cool shadows and hot music.

“The benefits of having these ladies helpis for them to see the hustle and bustle ofwhat the fashion business is really like,” saidRon Cooke of Rogue Productions. “It’s funand it’s fashion, but in order to do it, youhave to be quick and quick-witted.”

And once things got started, the pace be-came quick and exciting. Miss D.C. 2008Kate-Marie Grinold came backstage to of-fer advice.

West Potomac’s TV production teacherNancy Mantelli worked with students Chyna

Learning Fashion, Behind the ScenesJohnson-Owens and Anjelica Newkirk, bothjuniors, who filmed and interviewed peopleto make a promo of the event for Eddie Van.In post production, the students will con-tinue to work with the Hoop Dreams orga-nization and iKY Clothing to produce promopieces.

“Just being part of this event is verypowerfu l... [Eddie Van] came in and talkedto our fashion design students,” said CareerExperience Specialist Maria Kappel, whohelps set up real life career activities for thestudents at West Potomac.

She says the benefits are enormous be-cause “They’re getting real-life learning,working with business people and entrepre-neurs and fashion models.”

From left: Chyna Johnson-Owens, teacher NancyMantelli, and Anjelica Newkirk video-taped thebehind-the-scenes at The Shadow Room.

West Potomac student LaTasja Rousey helps themodels for the show.

“Depending on the show, they get tomodel or put their pieces in the show,” saidMaggy Francois, who teaches 60 studentsfashion design at West Potomac. So far thisyear, she has partnered her students witheight fashion shows in the metropolitanarea. Students get internship hours fordressing and styling the models, assistingwith hairstyling and makeup, learning net-working, and assisting with the production.

Her goal, she says is for the students tolearn the nitty-gritty of the whole industry— the whole aspect of putting on a produc-tion.

“There’s always a mission behind the

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In “‘A Child’s Place:’ Now Their Place” [Ga-zette, Nov. 19, 2008], several details wereinaccurate. The center has an enrollment of80 children in its preschool program whichserves ages 2-5 years old. It has 66 childrenin its after-school program which serves ages5-12 years old. Full-time teachers are em-ployed in its preschool program. A Child’sPlace is a privately-run center, leasing spacein the county-operated Hollin Hall SeniorCenter.

Correction

Lee District Supervisor Jeffrey McKay,acting in conjunction with Springfield District Supervisor Patrick

Herrity and Mason District SupervisorPenelope “Penny” Gross, has requested thatthe General Registrar and Election Boardreview absentee-in-person voting procedureto alleviate the near gridlock that occurredleading up to the November general elec-tion.

As McKay noted during last week’s FairfaxCounty Board of Supervisors’ meeting, 16percent of active registered voters took ad-vantage of the opportunity to vote eitherby mail-in absentee ballot or in-person atthe county’s in-person absentee voting lo-cations. One such location was the

See Trying, Page 6

McKay SeeksChanges toVoting Gridlock

See Learning, Page 6

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News

MohammadAhmad

‘Death That No Human Deserves’Myles Simon, 21 months old, was just 33 inches tall when he suffered one

blow to his head that resulted in complex fractures of his skull and instan-taneous death. Myles also suffered one blow to the abdomen that resultedin laceration of his liver and bruising of his kidneys, colon, bladder and dia-phragm.

“We hate that our son died a horrible death that no human deserves,”Myles’ mother testified at Mohammad Aukif Ahmad’s sentencing hearing inAugust 2007, before Ahmad was granted a new trial. “Life without him isunbearable at times.”

“He was full of life, he had the most infectious giggle. When you heardit, you couldn’t help but giggling yourself,” she said.

Jillian Ahmad operated an unlicensed day-care center out of thetownhouse where she lived with her husband on the 6400 block of SilverRidge Circle in Kingstowne.

On Sept. 12, 2006, Jillian Ahmad left at 9 a.m. to buy milk, juice andsnacks at Wal-Mart, leaving four children under four-years-old in the careof her husband.

But Jillian Ahmad first visited a friend before going to Wal-Mart, a friendher husband didn’t allow her to call on the phone. Her husband called heron her cell phone almost 20 times while she was at the friend’s house, shetestified in the first trial.

In one of the calls, Mohammad Ahmad told his wife that Myles was get-ting tired and sleepy. In another call, he yelled, “Hurry up and get the hellhome.”

When she returned, Myles’ eyes were rolled back and his lips were blue.“I started screaming, ‘What happened? What happened?’ He said, “I don’tknow, he just passed out,” she testified.

She told her husband to call 911.“He said, ‘No, just fix it,’” according to her testimony.Mohammad Ahmad was arrested three days later at the Westway Motor

Inn in New York, two miles from LaGuardia International Airport on Sept.15, 2006.

Murder Re-Trial on Hold

By Ken Moore

The Gazette

Mohammad AukifAhmad, who ischarged with andonce convicted

for the murder of a 21-month-oldtod-dler, wants to bar the FairfaxCounty Commonwealth Attorney’sOffice from prosecuting his retrial.

Ahmad’s second round of de-fense attorneys, Peter D.

Greenspun andJ o n a t h a nShapiro, arguedthat the Com-m o n w e a l t hAttorney’s Of-fice should re-cuse itself be-cause threeprosecutors inthe office onceworked forAhmad’s origi-

nal defense attorney, RobertWhitestone, when he representedAhmad at trial.

“At the time of their employmentwith the Commonwealth’sAttorney’s Office, it was incumbentupon then Commonwealth Attor-ney Robert F. Horan Jr. to imple-ment a plan and procedures …that the new prosecutors be pre-cluded with absolute certainty,from any contact with the Ahmadprosecution,” according toGreenspun and Shapiro.

Judge Leslie M. Alden grantedAhmad’s motion last week, and astatus hearing was scheduled forMonday, Nov. 17, setting the stagefor the appointment of a specialprosecutor from outside FairfaxCounty.

Commonwealth’s AttorneyRaymond F. Morrogh said earlierthis week that he wanted to chal-lenge the ruling.

Alden will hear arguments Fri-day, Nov. 21, why a special pros-ecutor from a neighboring jurisdic-tion should not be appointed.

A JURY CONVICTED Ahmad inMay 2007 of second-degree mur-der of Myles Simon, 21-monthsold. See sidebar.

The jury took 15 minutes to im-pose the maximum sentence, 40years in prison.

One juror put her hand to herheart and looked directly at thetoddler’s mother as the jury’s ver-dict was read.

Specialprosecutor couldbe appointed.

Alden imposed the full sentencein August 2007.

But 12 months later, Aldengranted Ahmad’s motion for a newtrial. Prosecutors failed to notifyAhmad’s defense that JillianAhmad, the key prosecution wit-ness, was in possession of approxi-mately a half ounce of marijuanaand $1,200 in cash when she wasapprehended by police as a mate-rial witness just before Ahmad’sthree-day trial in May 2007.

“The court concludes that in theabsence of disclosure of the evi-dence, the Defendant did not re-ceive a fair trial ending in a ver-dict worthy of confidence,” thejudge wrote. “Had the Defendantbeen aware of the undisclosed in-formation, he may reasonablyhave taken different and poten-tially significant actions whichcould have strengthened his de-fense.”

Last week, Shapiro andGreenspun also sought to bar thetestimony of Jillian Ahmad in thesecond trial, although the judgedenied that motion. “Ms. Ahmadhas already shown complete dis-regard for the truth-seeking pro-cess of the judicial system,” wroteGreenspun and Shapiro.

MOHAMMAD AHMAD’S sister,Adeela Ahmad Khan, has beencharged with bribery in connectionwith the case. She was indicted bya Fairfax grand jury in October,one of the first steps for a felonycase to proceed in Fairfax CountyCircuit Court.

Adeela Ahmad Khan is accusedof attempting to pay Jillian Ahmadto disappear at the time of herbrother’s trial. A special prosecu-tor has been appointed fromPrince William County in the brib-ery case against Ahmad’s sister.


News

Teachers at Mount VernonHigh School were given afinancial boost from the

MVHS Academic Boosters Corpo-ration. This past week ABC madeawards totally $6,700 through itsTeacher Grant Program.

“It is crucial to meet the needsof our teachers. We received somevery creative applications and weare happy to help some of theprojects that otherwise might havegone unfunded,” said RonFitzsimmons, president, MVHSAcademic Boosters Corporation.

Fitzsimmons believes the needfor such grants will increase be-

cause Fairfax County PublicSchools are facing extensive bud-get cuts. ABC receives supportfrom a variety of businesses andcommunity organization.

“Students’ academic successbenefits the entire community.And these grants provide an im-mediate impact in the classroom,”Fitzsimmons said.

Full or partial grants wereawarded to aid in the purchase ofa variety of equipment items, sup-port of specialized programs, andto promote field trips that en-hance students’ educational expe-rience.

By Chuck Hagee

Gazette

Despite several setbacksthis year, such as thecollapse of the KingsCrossing Project and

the Sept. 12 fire that destroyed thenew Marriott Springhill Suites thatwas under construction, revitaliza-tion along Richmond Highway isalive and well, according to theSoutheast Fairfax DevelopmentCorporation.

The revitalized Richmond High-way corridor, is the direct “resultof remarkable cooperation be-tween government, local busi-nesses and investors,” according toLara Fritts, executive director,SFDC. Some of the latest develop-ments include the following:

❖ Fairview Motel Site: Plans areunderway to develop this site witha new 120 room hotel/motel withsome meeting space. The plan re-ceived a favorable reception fromthe Spring Bank Community As-sociation when it was presentedduring a recent meeting. No finaldetails have been released at thistime.

❖ Walgreen’s (Beacon Hill):Construction is nearing comple-tion on this new addition to TheHighway at the intersection of Rt.1and Beacon Hill Road where theformer Wachovia Bank Branch andO’s Restaurant were once located.When open it will be the secondnew Walgreen’s along the Rt.1 cor-ridor. The first new store is nowopen and operating at the cornerof Boswell Avenue and Rt.1.

❖ K&M Shopping Center: Con-struction is nearing completion onthis 7,000 sq. ft. shopping complexon Fordson Road. The owners havesigned a contract for new Greekrestaurant and are negotiating fora bagel shop to occupy the remain-

ing space.❖ Hampton Inn & Suites: Con-

struction is well under way on thisnew hotel/motel addition in the8800 block of Richmond Highwayacross from SFDC headquarters inthe IMP Building. Having brokenground in March they are sched-uled to open in May 2009. A new60-room hotel is also being pro-posed for the site next door.

❖ IMP Building: Owners of thisproperty at 8850 Richmond High-way have filed a site plan to buildtwo hotel buildings on the park-ing area. No dates or specific planshave been released.

❖ Huntington Reserve: KBHomes, Inc. has started construc-tion on this residential projectwhich will include 94 newtownhouses located on 14 acresalong Huntington Avenue.

❖ Ourisman Dodge: The deal-ership lost over an acre of land tothe Woodrow Wilson BridgeProject. It is now planning to builda four-story parking garage behindits main building.

❖ Huntington Metro Project:This approved project by Stout andTeague will contain 650 residen-tial units, 23,000 sq. ft. of officespace, 30,000 sq. ft. of retail and10 acres of land designated forpublic parks.

In addition to all of this is thecontinued development of FortBelvoir as a result of the Base Re-alignment and Closure Report(BRAC) that includes the newDeWitt Army Community Hospi-tal and a host of other projects onbase as well as infrastructure androadway improvements both onand off the base.

Tourism in the area is expectedto increase with the addition of theNational Museum of the U.S. Armythat is planned to be constructedadjacent to Fort Belvoir.

Rt. 1 RevitalizationDefies Economy

MVHS Boosters GiveGrants to Teachers

Bringing Beauty —And Beast — to Stage

Gaston (Anthony Carrell) and LeFou (Melissa Becker) in town for the day with thetownspeople.

Music director WillaBrown works the castthrough a few warm-upscales before the perfor-mance.

Lumiere (Alan Mackritis) and the wardrobe (ChrissyCorl) watch silently as the Beast (Derek Farino) ordersBelle (Jenna Kraynak) to come to dinner.

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shows we do,” she said.

SENIOR MAI TRAN, 17, of Al-exandria worked backstage mixingtogether a “punk urban” ensemblewith a blue leather jacket, TrueReligion jeans, a plaid red scarfand jewelry. She says what’s funabout it is “the hands-on experi-ence in the real world.” She wantsto study fashion merchandising sothat she can become a buyer forMacy’s.

Junior Latasja Rousey, 16, of Al-exandria already considers herselfa fashion designer. Her motto is:“Don’t let the name brand of theclothes make you, but make your

Fashion, Behind the ScenesFrom Page 3

Franconia GovernmentalCenter on Franconia Roadwhere McKay’s office is located.

“Long lines weren’t the onlyproblem at this location. Park-ing was an issue, not only forvoters, but also for anyoneneeding to reach the police ormy staff. I stopped counting thenumber of near misses as vot-ers jockeyed for parkingspaces,” McKay said.

“It is imperative that votinglocations be able to handle ex-pected turnouts — and that wascertainly not the case at theFranconia Governmental Cen-ter,” McKay said.

name the brand.” She says shewants to branch out into interiordesign. For her model’s outfit, shemixed dark skinny jeans, a graphiciKY “Redemption” v-neck T-shirtand a purple and black scarf —“perfect for chilling” around, shesaid.

Senior Hope Thomas, 16, of Al-exandria wants to go into visualmerchandising, where she designsinteriors of store layouts. For hermodel, she put together an urbanstreet look with black leatherjacket, black skinny jeans, silver-studded belt and black and whitescarf. “The point was to spice upthe outfit and flavor to it,” she said,adding her own textures, patternsand color.

From Page 3

Voting Gridlock


‘A CelebrationOf GivingAnd Sharing’

Community

Volunteer Fairfax is seekingvolunteers for its annualchildren’s program, “A Cel-

ebration of Giving and Sharing.”Students in select Fairfax Countyschools will receive backpacks fullof books and toys and talk to com-munity volunteers about the im-portance of giving sharing and giv-ing back. After benefiting fromvolunteerism, the partner schoolsengage their students in volunteerprojects.

The schools are selected based onneed, with nearly half of their stu-dents qualifying for the free andreduced lunch program. Two of thethree schools selected this time isWeyanoke Elementary, located at6520 Braddock Road, Alexandria,and Woodlawn Elementary, locatedat 8505 Highland Lane, Alexandria.The delivery day is Thursday, Dec.11, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and thecelebration day is Friday, Dec. 12,from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.

For more information and tosign up, call Samantha Watson at703-246-3862 or [email protected].


Opinion

Shop Locally Local shops help define community,and this year, they need local support.

Editorials

The economic situation is daunting,and it’s probably true that mostfamilies, even families who feel financially secure, will be more fru-

gal in this holiday season than in the past.But we’re pretty sure that almost all of us

will be doing some significant holiday shop-ping in the next month. While you’re at it, besure to spend a portion of your shopping dol-lars close to home.

One way to be sure holiday shopping comeswith some holiday spirit is to do a portion of

the shopping in some of thearea’s locally owned stores.There is special holiday ambi-ance available by shopping in

the heart of a town that is decked out for theseason.

Small retail shops are part of what definesany community. Their livelihood depends onthe livability and quality of the neighborhoodsaround them. A small business owner pays at-tention to every detail in his or her business ina way that no chain can.

Frequently, it is the small retail person whois active in fund raising for local charities, forfire and rescue service, for local schools andin organizing holiday events.

Local retail stores, mom-and-pop stores, facesome of the toughest challenges imaginableright now. The costs of being in business havegrown tremendously while revenues are not.

Competition from Big Box stores, expandedshopping malls and the Internet make the holi-day shopping season all the more importantto locally-owned retailers.

Everyone will do some of their shopping at

www.MountVernonGazette.com

Newspaper of Mount Vernon

An independent, locally owned weeklynewspaper delivered

to homes and businesses.1604 King Street

Alexandria, Virginia 22314

NEWS DEPARTMENT:To discuss ideas and concerns,

Call: 703--917-6431Fax: 703-917-0991

e-mail:[email protected]

Steven MaurenEditor, 703-917-6431

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Chuck HageeReporter, 703-549-1216

[email protected]

Michael Lee PopeReporter, 703-615-0960

[email protected]

Rebecca HalikEditorial Asst., 703-917-6407

[email protected]

Julia O’DonoghueEducation & Politics, 703-917-6433

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Ken MooreCourts & Projects, 703-917-6417

[email protected]

Mark GiannottoSports Editor, 703-917-6409

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ADVERTISING:To place an advertisement, call the ad

department between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday - Friday.

Display ads 703-838-0302Classified ads 703-917-6400Employment ads 703-917-6464

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PublisherJerry Vernon

Editor & PublisherMary Kimm

Editor in ChiefSteven MaurenPhotography:

Louise Krafft, Robbie HammerArt/Design:

Zohra Aslami, Geovani Flores,Laurence Foong, John Heinly,

John Smith, Stu Moll, Wayne ShippProduction Manager:

Jean Card

Editor Emeritus:Mary Anne Weber

CIRCULATION: 703-917-6481Circulation Manager:

Ann Oliver

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Peter LabovitzPresident/CEO

Mary KimmPublisher/Chief Operating Officer

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A Connection Newspaper

Give LocallyLocal charities seeing unprecedented demandfrom struggling families for food and other help.

Putting food on the table for the family. It’ssuch a basic activity and most of us are luckyenough to make choices of what we’ll buy atthe grocery store, whether this is a carry-outnight or an eat-out night one or more days aweek.

Meanwhile local charities and food banks arefinding it hard to gather enough food to keepup with the demand from people who are sud-denly unable to afford enough food to put onthe table for their families.

Housing costs, the foreclosure crisis, spikingenergy and food costs over the past year andother economic woes have put a tremendousstrain on working poor families in NorthernVirginia.

Included in The Gazette over the past fewweeks and in coming weeks are stories and list-ings of local organizations that help local fami-lies in need and especially nonprofit groupsthat provide help to families during the holi-day season. These organizations report thatwhile demand is up dramatically, contributionsare down. They need your help to respond toincreasingly needy families.

Here is a partial listing of local organizations

that help the needy, every one is facing intenseand increasing demand for services. Read moreat www.ConnectionNewspapers.com.

— Mary Kimm,

[email protected]

To Help❖ United Community Ministries, Mount

Vernon, 703-768-7106❖ FACETS, 703-352-5090❖ Ecumenical Community Helping Others

(ECHO), 7205 Old Keene Mill Road in Spring-field, 703-569-9160

❖ Good Shepherd in the Route 1 area, 703-768-9404

❖ The Koinonia Foundation, 6037 FranconiaRoad, Franconia, 703-971-1991.

❖ Christ House, Catholic Charities, urgentlyneeds 19 turkeys and other items for its Christ-mas dinner for the hungry. 131 S. West Street,Alexandria, 703-548-4227 (monetary assis-tance); 703-549-8644 (shelter). www.ccda.net/programs_christhouse.php

❖ Bethany House of Northern Virginia needsdonations and volunteers for its Christmas Shop.Registry of needed items at Target or Wal-Martunder Bethany (first name) House (last name)or contact Jennifer Wassermann, 703-658-9500,[email protected].

the mall. In this area, almost everyone will dosome shopping via the Internet.

But local shoppers should be sure to savesome shopping time and dollars for local stores.

‘Arsenic and Old Lace’ at Mount Vernon HighBy Jeremy Rommel

Westfield High School

Have you ever visited your oldaunts and stumbled across a rot-ting corpse stored inside of theirwindow seat? If not, you can imag-ine Mortimer’s surprise when hedoes just that in JosephKesselring’s 1939 dark comedy,“Arsenic and Old Lace.” MountVernon High School’s production

stayed true to the insanity, homi-cide, and hilariously disturbingcharacters provided by Kesselring’sscript.

The plot takes place in the homeof Abby (Qudsiyya Hewlett) andMartha (Taylor Wise) Brewster.Among the kooky frequenters ofthe Brewster home is TeddyBrewster (Andrew McKellips),who thinks he is president TeddyRoosevelt; Mortimer (Malcolm

Montgomery), who can’t quite un-derstand how he, a straight-laceddrama critic, fits intohis nutty family; andElaine (KatelynArthur), who is set onedge by her boyfriend Mortimer’sreluctance to marry her. The playkicks off when Mortimer discov-ers that his seemingly harmlessaunts have poisoned 12 men withelderberry wine laced with ar-senic. Just as Mortimer is tryingto deal with his homicidal aunts,his homicidal brother JonathanBrewster (Kevin McNelis) returnshome with an alcoholic plastic sur-geon named Dr. Einstein (EddieMaldonado), a hatred for his es-tranged family, and a corpse of hisown. The hilarity and confusionthat ensues is intensified by unex-pected visits from cops and severalnear discoveries of bodies. It con-cludes in the only way possible —Martha and Abby Brewster com-mitting themselves to the HappyDale Sanitarium.

The cast of Mount Vernon’s pro-duction did a good job keeping up

the pace of a show in which goodtiming is essential. Several actorsused effective physical expressionto make the most of their comedicmoments.

Among the highlights were theintermittent entrances and exits ofAndrew McKellips as the identity-confused Teddy Brewster. Fromcharging up the stairs with swordin hand, to tip-toeing across stagewith a body precariously drapedover his back, McKellips created acharacter that was fun to watchfrom start to finish. Another high-light was Eddie Maldonado as Dr.Einstein. The way he played off hisenraged partner in crime, hisgoofy mannerisms, and his hilari-ous, yet ethnically-ambiguous ac-cent never ceased to entertain theaudience.

By the end of Mount Vernon’sproduction of “Arsenic and OldLace,” after it is made abundantlyclear that the Brewster family trulyis insane, the audience is glad todiscover along with Mortimer, thathe is actually not a member of thisdisturbed and disturbing family.

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Snapshot A Persimmon Tree: River Farm,Nov. 24, 4:30 p.m.

Cappies

Review


By Michael Lee Pope

Gazette Packet

Style has always been at the heartof the mission of St. Paul’s Episco-pal Church, with its early originsrooted in an early 19th-century dis-

pute between members of Christ Churchabout proper clerical garb. One faction ofthe church preferred the traditional blacksilk cassock. But when the Rev. WilliamGibson, a controversial pastor who arrivedat Christ Church in 1807, began wearing awhite surplice, several congregates consid-ered the new duds popish. In the pulpit,Gibson adopted a high-church style thatmany longtime members at Christ Churchfound objectionable.

“A prominent member, Edmund J. Lee,allegedly walked out of the church in pro-test because of it,” wrote church historianRuth Lincoln Kaye in her 1984 history ofSt. Paul’s Church. “When, in addition, wordreached Mr. Gibson through the grapevinethat his sermons were considered too abra-sive and were delivered with too muchfrankness, his reportedly excitable naturecaused him to mount the high pulpit andresign without prior advice to the vestry,an act which flouted church procedure andfurther aggravated the situation.”

In 1809, Gibson led a renegade group outof Christ Church and into a small buildingon Fairfax Street, eventually forming a neworganization that came to be known as St.Paul’s Episcopal Church. Shortly after in-corporation, members of the newly createdvestry hired famed architect BenjaminHenry Latrobe to design a permanent homeon South Pitt Street. Latrobe, known bysome as “the father of American architec-ture,” designed the White House porticoes,Statuary Hall and the old Supreme Courtchamber in the basement of the UnitedStates Capitol.

“His churches were meeting houses, notunlike in plan those built by the Congrega-tionalists in Massachusetts in the 17th cen-tury,” wrote architectural historian ThomasWaterman in 1939.

WITH THE CHURCH on the brink of cel-ebrating its 200th anniversary, modern-daycongregates are planning a series of eventsto celebrate the milestone. The kickoff tothe year of celebration will be the first week-end in December, when the historic struc-ture will be featured in the CampagnaCenter’s Designer Tour of Homes. Organiz-ers say this is the first time that a buildingother than a home has been featured on thetour, opening up the building to people whohave never ventured inside the Episcopalchurch completed in 1818 at a cost ofArts ❖ Entertainment ❖ Leisure

$29,000.“Latrobe’s design encourages you to look

heavenward,” said the Rev. Oran Warder,rector of St. Paul’s. “It’s a simple, elegantsetting that lets you know you are in a sa-cred space.”

The building that visitors will see duringthe Campagna Center’s Designer Tour ofHomes will be the result of compromise anddevelopment. Although Latrobe did notwant galleries, the vestry forced the addi-tion of three overhead seating areas. And

Photos contributed

St. Paul’s is the featured stop on this year’s Tour of Homes. From left,801 Duke Street gets the decorations ready inside the house, 19Franklin Street and 209 South St. Asaph Street. These houses will bedecorated for the tour.

See Tour, Page 19

his design for the chancel was radically al-tered in 1906, when the east wall waspushed back about 40 feet. Earlier this year,the north wall of the building was encap-sulated in a controversial atrium that wasopposed by many in the historic preserva-tion community. All of these features andmore will be pointed out by members of theAltar Guild during the tour.

“A lot of people who may be interested in

Holiday Tours

Church To Star in TourFor the first time ever, Campagna Center’sDesigner Tour of Homes will feature abuilding that’s not a home.

ampagna Center’ss will feature ae.

“A lot of people who maybe interested in seeing theinside of the building mayhave never come here forworship. So this tour isour way of inviting thecommunity inside to geteveryone involved in ouranniversary.”

— Katherine Murphy, stewardshipdirector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

“A lot of people who maybe interested in seeing theinside of the building mayhave never come here forworship. So this tour isour way of inviting thecommunity inside to geteveryone involved in ouranniversary.”

— Katherine Murphy, stewardshipdirector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

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COCKTAILAND WINEAVAILABLE

By Chuck Hagee

Gazette

In addition to being Commanding General ofthe Revolutionary Army and the first Presidentof the United States, George Washington wasan accomplished host at his Mount Vernon

Plantation. For his multitude of guests he requiredan array of fine china.

Beginning in the spring of 1757 he ordered “whitestone” tableware from England, alsoknown as English white stoneware.His first order arrived in Decemberof that year. It consisted of six dozendinner plates and an array ofcomplimenting pieces.

In the American colonies duringthe mid 1700’s, the relatively inex-pensive yet fashionable white-firedEnglish stoneware was the mostwidely used table setting. It couldbe molded into a variety of special-ized forms, which suited the needsof the bachelor Washington quitewell.

One of his favorite patterns was known appropri-ately, in line with his entrepreneurial talents, as“Prosperity.” The pattern was a glossy hard porce-lain. It was both elegant and practical.

A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO, the reproduction ofthat stoneware was introduced at The Shops atMount Vernon by Wendy Kvalheim, the president ofMottahedeh China, and Carol Borchert Cadou,Mount Vernon’s director of collections. They alsosigned copies of the respective books “From Draw-ing Board to Dinner Table” and “The George Wash-ington Collection: Fine and Decorative Art at MountVernon” as well as pieces of Mottahedeh china pur-chased at The Shops.

Kvalheim acquired the 85-year-old fine china com-pany located in Cranberry, N.J., near Princeton, in1992 from its founders Mildred and RafiMottahedeh. “We specialize in antique reproductionsof porcelain, brass, silver and crystal and hold a va-riety of museum licenses,” Kvalheim said.

Right now only four pieces of the Prosperity pat-tern are available — a service plate, an oval platter,

and two serving bowls — according to Kvalheim.However, there is a wide array of Mottahedeh chinain The Shops in different patterns featuring every-thing from vases and figurines to full table settings.

“I design our various products and my daughterDana serves as the product coordinator. A given re-production might consist of one plate or a variety ofadaptations,” she said.

Her book “From Drawing Board to Dinner Table”explains in detail some of the various reproductions

produced by her companyand the process of success-fully achieving an authenticreproduction. The MountVernon Prosperity pattern isa glossy hard porcelain repro-duction of the StaffordshireEnglish Salt glaze ware.

It is stain proof, dishwashersafe and microwaveable. Theunusual contrasting mattefinished rim, although un-glazed, is non-porous. Thepattern was discovered dur-

ing an archeological dig at the Estate, according toCardou, who gave a detailed account on the subjectduring a lecture preceding the signing event.

“A well-set table was the mark of a gentleman incolonial America,” Cardou told her audience. “Thisalso applied to tea service. Serving Chinese tea was anote of status.”

ARDOU’S BOOK, “The George Washington Collec-tion,” was an outgrowth of her work on the newmuseum. “It is a chronology of Washington’s life. Itgoes from his bachelor years at Mount Vernon to hismarriage to Martha, to the Revolutionary War, andhis two retirements as told through various objectson the Estate,” Cardou said.

“One of the constant themes throughout the bookis porcelain. It defined for those new Americans theirstanding and their wealth,” she said.

Visitors to The Shops at Mount Vernon are able topurchase an array of Mottahedeh china from entireplace settings to individual decorative pieces. Copiesof both books are also available in the book sectionof The Shops.

“A well-set table wasthe mark of agentleman incolonial America.”

— Carol Borchert Cadou,director, Mount Vernon

Collections

Designer Signs Book, ChinaBook on Washington’s life as seen through his objects.

Art & Literature

See Calendar Page 11

Calendar

E-mail calendar announcements to theMount Vernon Gazette,[email protected] and artwork are encouraged.Deadline is Thursday at noon for the fol-lowing week’s paper. Call Rebecca Halikat 703-917-6407 with questions.

OTHER ITEMS Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is now

accepting applications for its newJunior Docent Program. Aftertraining, Junior Docents will be ableto give tours and assist with publicprograms including candlelight tours,18th-century teas, open houses andother special events. Students ingrades 2 through 5 are invited to joinGadsby’s staff for a training seriesSunday afternoons early next year.Classes will be held from 1 p.m. to2:30 p.m. on Jan. 18, Jan. 25, andFeb. 1. These free classes will cover

basic history and presentation skillsto prepare Junior Docents to helpwith museum special events. Toreceive an application, call 703-838-4242. Applications are due byWednesday, Dec. 17.

This holiday season, River Farm will be acollection site for Toys for Tots, anorganization that gives toys to needychildren in the United States. Tomake a donation, drop offunwrapped, new toys in thecollection box in the estate house byDec. 16. 703-768-5700 ext. 114.

ONGOINGMount Vernon Community bands

need members. All concert bandmusicians wanted. Most needed are:oboes, bassoons, French horns,saxophones, flutes, trombones, andclarinets. Also needed and welcomeare: percussionists, and players of

tubas, euphoniums, trumpets. Visitwww.mvbands.com, [email protected] or call 703-339-6534 for more information.

On Mondays, through Dec. 1 from 9:30to 10:30 a.m., the Green SpringGardens located at 4603 GreenSpring Road, will be having Yogafor Gardeners for adults. Theprogram will offer a series of classesfeaturing the Vinyasa method toincrease your flexibility, strength,and endurance for gardening. $ 66/six-class sessions. For moreinformation and to register call 703-642-5173.

On Sundays from noon-5 p.m., visit theWaterfront and see history-inspired performances near theTorpedo Factory; do a “meet andgreet” of early Alexandria residents


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Calendar

See Calendar, Page 17

From Page 10

and travelers near the Waterfront andlower King Street. Free. Visitwww.historicalexandria.org for more.

Children enter a world of fantasy andfables when costumed interpretersweave three tales together duringMount Vernon’s storytelling session,“Once Upon a Time at MountVernon”, held every Saturday andSunday at 2 p.m. throughDecember at the Hands-On Historyroom in the Donald W. ReynoldsEducation Center, 3200 MountVernon Memorial Highway. Thestorytelling program is recommendedfor children ages three to eight.Parental supervision is required.“Once Upon at Time at MountVernon” is included in regular Estateadmission: adults, $13.00; youthages 6-11, $6.00; and children under5 are admitted free.

Historic Mount Vernon hascommemorative whiskey setsavailable for sale. The set includes ashot glass and a 50 mL bottle ofwhiskey consisting of 11 differentwhiskey brands blended and aged atMount Vernon in 2005. The gift setsare $25 and are available forpurchase in person with a valid ID atthe Shops at Mount Vernon or GeorgeWashington’s Distillery. Visitwww.mountvernon.org or 703-780-2000.

Historic Mount Vernon welcomes allBoy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and CampFire Club members (in uniform orwearing an official pin) to freeadmission during its Scouting Daysprogram beginning Nov. 1 throughFeb. 15, 2009. For more information,visit www.MountVernon.org.

Women can learn how to sing withlessons in a group from 7-8 p.m. onNov. 19, Nov. 24, Dec. 3 andDec. 10. Free. Held at TheHermitage, 5000 Fairbanks Ave.,Alexandria. 703-764-3896 to RSVP.

Martha Washington hosts an 18th-century Christmas with candlelitwalks, fireside caroling, and earlyAmerican décor during Mount Vernonby Candlelight. The Friday, Saturdayand Sunday evenings (Nov. 28, 29, &30; Dec. 5, 6 & 7; and 12, 13 & 14)from 5–8 p.m. Tickets may bepurchased in advance at the FordOrientation Center or throughwww.MountVernon.org. Admission is$18 for adults and $12 for childrenunder 12.

Mount Vernon welcomes former WhiteHouse pastry chef Roland Mesnieras he creates a gingerbread replica ofGeorge Washington’s home from 10a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 12 through Nov.25. The five-foot-wide and two-foot-tall gingerbread Mansion replica willbe on display as part of the newChristmas at Mount Vernon daytimeevent, which begins on Nov. 28. Visitwww.MountVernon.org for moreinformation.

Gallery West presents “Small Worksand Holiday Show and SilentAuction” through Jan. 4 at 1213King St. Features a variety of artwork by members in every size.Silent auction ends Dec. 8. Visitwww.gallery-west.com or call 703-549-6006.

Gather the Family at Woodlawnruns Dec. 14,21 and 28 at


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From Page 11

Calendar

Woodlawn. Experience an 1820s Christmas withAmerica’s First Family before trees, Santa andstockings. Tours available from 5:30-8:30 p.m.$15/person; $5/grades K-12. Visitwww.woodlawn1805.org or call 703-780-4000.

The Alexandria Jaycees will sell Christmas treesthis season, with proceeds in part benefiting thechapter’s holiday shopping tour for kids. Theannual tree sales support the Holiday ShoppingTour for underprivileged kids and the chapter’sgeneral programming funds for community andleadership development. The HolidayShopping Tour gives area kids a fun shoppingday with funds provided and pizza party tofollow, which allows them to purchase gifts fortheir families. This year’s shopping event is setfor Dec. 13. The Alexandria Jaycees tree lot islocated in the parking lot at the Safeway on thecorner of S. Royal and Gibbon Streets in OldTown Alexandria. Tree sales run Nov. 29until Dec. 20 or when trees sell out). Lot hoursare: Monday-Friday 6 p.m.-9 p.m.; Saturdays 9a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For moredetails or for membership information, call theJaycees’ 24-hour recorded event line 703-866-7171 or visit www.alexjaycees.org.

Tree Sale. The Alexandria Police departmentChristmas tree sale begins on Friday, Dec. 5 atthe Alexandria Union Station parking lot (110Callahan Drive). The official lot hours are:Monday-Thursday, 3-9 p.m.; Friday, 3-10 p.m.;Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Thisyear’s tree selection includes Scotch Pines,Douglas Firs, Fraser Firs, and Concolor Firs.They will range in size from 4 1/2 feet to 10 feettall. Proceeds benefit the Alexandria PoliceYouth Camp.

The Little Theater of Alexandria will perform“Scrooge! The Musical” from Nov. 22-Dec. 14 at600 Wolfe St., Old Town. Performances areWednesdays-Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. andSundays at 3 p.m. Tickets are $18-$21 and

can be purchased at www.thelittletheatre.com.

The Alliance Dance Institute presents“Nutcracker” from Nov. 29 through Dec.28 in the Landmark Mall, 5801 Duke St.Performances are Saturdays and Sundays at 1p.m., 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. $20/person. After theshow, stay for photo opportunities. Visitwww.adidance.com or 703-354-6000.

This Christmas, arrange for a personalized letterfrom Santa Claus, postmarked from theNorth Pole. The Alexandria Jaycees are offeringcustomized letters sent directly to children fromSanta for only $5 each. The letter will alsoinclude a coupon to a child-friendly restaurant.Letter requests must be received by Dec. 8.Orders received after Dec. 8 will be postmarkedfrom Virginia. For more information or to placean order, visit www.alexjaycees.org.

The American Horticultural Society hosts holidayhappenings at its headquarters at River Farm.From Dec. 1 to Jan. 16, River Farm’sgrounds and estate house will feature lights,poinsettias, and other festive holidaydecorations. All are welcome to visit and enjoyMonday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., butnote that the grounds will be closed from Dec.25 through Jan. 4.

WEDNESDAY/NOV. 26 Concert. 7:30 p.m. at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount

Vernon Ave. An evening with B.B. King. Visitwww.birchmere.com for information and tickets.

Pajama Party. 7 p.m. at Ellen Coolidge BurkeBranch Library, 4701 Seminary Road. For ages 3to 6 with an adult.

Storytime. 11 a.m. at Kate Waller Barrett BranchLibrary, 717 Queen St. Ages 2 and up withadult. Free.

THURSDAY/NOV. 27 Turkey Trot. 10 a.m. at the Cora Kelly


KARATE MASTERS1514 Belle View Blvd703-765-5309www.Taekwondomasters.com

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Celebrating 50 years, 1958 - 2008

703.836.5363 www.SilvermanGalleries.com

HOLIDAY HOURS START DEC 4Noon - Five

Daily except Monday & TuesdayOpen every day December 17-24

Holiday Tour

Designer Tour of HomesThe 38th Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Week-

end will culminate on Dec. 6 with a Designer Tourof Homes from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The tour willfeature historic St. Paul’s Episcopal Church andfour private residences. Advance-purchase ticketscost $30, with day-or-purchase tickets availablefor $35. For more information, call 703-548-0111.

From Page 9

seeing the inside of the building may have nevercome here for worship,” said Katherine Murphy,stewardship director for the church. “So this tour isour way of inviting the community inside to get ev-eryone involved in our anniversary.”

THE TOUR WILL also feature four homes in OldTown, stretching from the late 18th century to thelate 20th century. Each home will feature its owndistinctive interior design and floral arrangementsfrom local businesses. Private homes that will be fea-tured on the tour include the following:

❖ 209 South St. Asaph Street: Owned by JulieMiddleton and Barry West, this mid- to late-19th-century townhouse has Flemish bond brick with anexterior dentil cornice and decorative brackets withscrolls and patterns. During the Civil War, it wasconfiscated by Union troops and used by Gen. JohnSlough, who was responsible for the defense ofWashington and Northern Virginia. The double par-lor on the first floor has 10-foot ceilings, cornicemoulding and ceiling medallions complemented bytwo Corinthian columns.

❖ 404 South Royal Street: Owned by Kevinand Maura Dunn, this building is known as the“Seaton House” and is on the National Register ofHistoric Places. Once owned by free blacks, this two-story brick rowhouse was probably built between1861 and 1866 in an African-American neighbor-hood then known as “Hayti.” It was purchased byGeorge Seaton in 1866, Alexandria’s first African-

American City Council member. He was a grocerystore owner and master carpenter who built a num-ber of homes and buildings in Old Town during the1850s and 1860s.

❖ 19 Franklin Street: Owned by Nancy Applebyand Andrew Palmieri, this property serves as a back-drop to the entrance into Ford’s Landing alongAlexandria’s southern waterfront. Built in 1997, theexterior is in the tradition of classic Old Town archi-tecture while the interior reflects the American South-west. From the stain of the hardwood floors to thecolor transitions on the walls, many of the pieces inthe home are from New Mexico.

❖ 801 Duke Street: Owned by Sherry Schiller,this house reflects a classic Federal style. The distinc-tive “flounder” style section near the back was builtin the 1790s, and many of the floors are believed tobe original to the house. A walled garden surround-ing the home has been developed into a series ofoutdoor rooms accessible from seven different door-ways.

Tour of Homes Includes Church


From Page 17

Calendar

Elementary School at the intersection ofWest Reed and CommonwealthAvenues. With two cans of food:$15/individuals ages 13-21 and $20/ages 22 and over. Food benefitsAlive. Visit www.visitdelray.com/turkeytrot for tickets and t-shirtorders.

FRIDAY/NOV. 28 Concert. 7:30 p.m. at the Birchmere,

3701 Mount Vernon Ave. The SeldomScene and Dry Branch Fire. Visitwww.birchmere.com for informationand tickets.

Wee Ones Story Time. 10:30 a.m. atHooray for Books!, 1555 King St.Children up to age 2 can enjoy songsand stories. Free. Visitwww.hooray4books.com or 703-548-4092.

Reception. See the Springfield ArtGuild’s art show through Dec. 15 atthe Goodwin House, 4800 FillmoreAve. Free. All paintings for sale. 703-644-6677.

Tree Lighting. 7 p.m. at MarketSquare, 301 King St. Featuresperformances, guests and more. Free.Visit www.visitalexandriava.com or703-883-4686.

SATURDAY/NOV. 29 Concert. 7:30 p.m. at the Birchmere,

3701 Mount Vernon Ave. The SeldomScene and Dry Branch Fire. Visitwww.birchmere.com for informationand tickets.

Dinosaur Story Time. 11 a.m. atHooray for Books, 1555 King St. Hearstories about dinosaurs. Free. Age 2and up. Visitwww.hooray4books.com or 703-548-4092.

Seeking art-work, photog-raphy, poetry,opinions, shortstories andreflectionsfrom localstudents.

E-mail to:[email protected], ormail or delivercontributionsby Dec. 5, to7913 WestparkDr., McLean,VA 22102.Please be sureto include thestudent’sname, age,grade, schooland town ofresidencealong witheach submis-sion. For infor-mation, call703-917-6444.

Be a Partof

CHILDREN’S(& TEENS’)

GAZETTE


From Page 19

Calendar

Art Exhibit. See artwork by YuriKokoyanin at The von Brahler Ltd./Gallery, 1437 Powhatan St., from 11a.m.-3 p.m. Call for weekday hours,703-798-8686. Free.

Scottish Heritage Preview. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Lyceum, 201 S.Washington St. Enjoy music,performances, re-enactors and more.Free. Visitwww.alexandriahistory.org or 703-838-4994.

Holiday Concert. 1 p.m. at MarketSquare, 301 King St. Hear AlexandriaKleztet and then Michael Mulvaneyat 2 p.m. Free. 703-838-4686.

SUNDAY/NOV. 30 Concert. 7:30 p.m. at the Birchmere,

3701 Mount Vernon Ave. AaronNeville and his Quintet, featuringCharles Neville. Visitwww.birchmere.com for informationand tickets.

Bridge Club. 4 p.m. at SherwoodLibrary, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane.Beginners and advanced players age12 and up. Free. 703-765-3645.

Art Exhibit. See artwork by YuriKokoyanin at The von Brahler Ltd./Gallery, 1437 Powhatan St., from 11a.m.-3 p.m. Call for weekday hours,703-798-8686. Free.

Holiday Music. 2 p.m. at MarketSquare, 301 King St. Hear DorisJustis and Lisa Taylor perform. 703-

883-4686.Holiday Concert. 6:30 p.m. at The

Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St.Performance by the Dennis J andfriends. $15/person; $25/couple.202-438-5704.

MONDAY/DEC. 1 Donations Wanted. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Drop off new toy and gift certificatedonations (no bikes) for theAlexandria Domestic ViolenceProgram Children’s Holiday Party at421 King Street, Suite 400,Alexandria. Donations acceptedMonday – Friday through Dec. 15.703-838-4911 for information.

Holiday Trip. 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. GreenSpring Gardens sponsors a trip toLongwood Gardens in KennettSquare, PA. See Holiday lights andfloral displays and a holiday concert.Trip leaves from Green SpringGardens, 4603 Green Spring Road.$85. Registration required – 703-642-5173.

WEDNESDAY/DEC. 3 Noonday Noel. 12:05 p.m. at The Old

Presbyterian Meeting House, 323 S.Fairfax St. Hear A “ColonialChristmas.” Free. Visitwww.opmh.org or 703-549-6670.Followed by lunch for $5.

D is for December. 10:30 a.m. at

Sherwood Regional Library, 2501Sherwood Hall Lane. Preschool agechildren can enjoy stories and fun.Free. Registration required, 703-765-3645.

Lunch Bunnies. Noon at KingstowneLibrary, 6500 Landsdowne Centre.Ages 1-5 can bring lunch and enjoystories. Free. Registration required,703-339-4610.

Girls Night Out. 7 p.m. at JohnMarshall Library, 6209 Rose HillDrive. Teens can enjoy a bookdiscussion. Call for title. Free.Registration required, 703-971-0010.

THURSDAY/DEC. 4 Book Discussion. Noon at

Kingstowne Library, 6500Landsdowne Centre. Adults candiscuss “Ethan Frome” by EdithWharton. Free. 703-339-4610.

Scottish Christmas WalkMarketplace. Noon-5 p.m. atMasonic Memorial, 101 CallahanDrive. Shop for a variety of holidayitems, visit a café and buy heatherand greens. Visitwww.scottishchristmaswalk.com or703-549-0111.

Heather and Greens Sales. 7-9 p.m.at Masonic Memorial, 101 CallahanDrive. Try a touch of heather andgreens to enhance holidaydecorations with a Scottish flair.Purchase fresh heather bundles or a

variety of wreaths, garlands,flatwoods and more. Free. For moreinformation on the ScottishChristmas Walk Weekend, visitwww.campagnacenter.org orwww.scottishchristmaswalk.com.

Holiday Pottery Show and Sale.Noon-6 p.m. at The Art League in theTorpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St.Free. Purchase a variety of items byresidents ranging from $5-$100. Visitwww.theartleague.org or 703-683-5358.

Celtic Concert. 8-9:30 p.m. at theMasonic Memorial, 101 CallahanDrive. Listen to fiddlers, pipers,Scottish dancers and more. $30/person. For more information on theScottish Christmas Walk Weekend,visit www.campagnacenter.org orwww.scottishchristmaswalk.com.

Children’s Tea Party. 3:30-5:30 p.m.at the Masonic Memorial, 101Callahan Drive. This special eventfeatures Santa Claus. $40/adult andchild and $10/each additional ticket.For more information on the ScottishChristmas Walk Weekend, visitwww.campagnacenter.org orwww.scottishchristmaswalk.com.

Holiday Open House. TorpedoFactory is holding an open housefrom 6-9 p.m. at 105 N. Union St.Features music, drinks and horsd’oeuvres. Meet artists and browsegifts. Free. Visitwww.torpedofactory.org or 703-838-

4565.

FRIDAY/DEC. 5 ArtFest: Fiber & Form

Celebration. 6-9 p.m. at the ArtLeague’s Madison Annex. Join for therelaunch of Springwater Studios atthe Art League. Free. Visitwww.theartleague.org or 703-683-1780.

Holiday Concert. 8 p.m. a theSchlesinger Concert Hall and ArtsCenter, 3001 N. Beauregard St. Hearmusic by the NOVA CommunityChorus and the Alexandria Band.Donations requested, 703-845-6252.

Pet Photos. Pets can take photos withSanta at Olde Towne School forDogs, 529 Oronoco St. Proceedsbenefit Vola Lawson Animal Shelter.$45/sitting. Visitwww.alexandriaanimals.org or 703-838-4774 ext. 216.

Lunch Bunch. Noon at John MarshallLibrary, 6209 Rose Hill Drive.Children up to age 5 can enjoystories. Free. Registration required,703-971-0010.

Scottish Christmas WalkMarketplace. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. atMasonic Memorial, 101 CallahanDrive. Shop for a variety of holidayitems, visit a café and buy heatherand greens. Visitwww.scottishchristmaswalk.com or703-549-0111.

By Chuck Hagee

Gazette Packet

Alexandria’s holiday season offi-cially kicks off with the tradi-tional 38th Annual Scottish WalkWeekend Dec. 4-6. The highlight

of that event is the Scottish Walk Parade onDec. 6 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Under the aegis of The Campagna Cen-ter, 418 S. Washington St., the weekendactually commences on Thursday, Dec. 4,with the opening of the Christmas Market-place at the Center at 10 a.m. The heatherand green sale runs until Saturday at 5 p.m.

The Saint Andrew’s Society of Washing-ton, D.C., partners with the Center and theCity to sponsor the annual parade whichfeatures over 100 Scottish clans dressed intheir individual colorful tartans. There arealso a variety of pipe and drum bands anda variety of dogs in the parade each year.

The real festivities commence Fridayevening, Dec. 5 at the George WashingtonMasonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive,with the “Taste of Scotland,” where festiveScottish attire is encouraged. This year it ispresented by The Westin Hotel.

This event features various Scottish dis-tillers presenting their products and a pri-vate shopping experience at an expandedChristmas Marketplace. The latter is com-posed of vendors offering an array of prod-ucts from holiday ornaments and decora-tive items to handmade clothing items andart. Greens and heather are also availablefor purchase from the Center.

An exclusive Patrons Tasting Hour is held7-8 p.m. with the public event commenc-ing at 8 p.m. and concluding at 10 p.m. Tick-

Scottish Walk Weekend: Alexandria Traditionets for this event range from $100 for asingle regular admission; $150 for a singlePatrons ticket; and $250 for a couples Pa-tron ticket. Raffle tickets are also availableat $25 each or five for $100.

Tickets can be purchased by calling theCenter at 703-549-0111 Ext. 107; by visit-ing the Center’s Web site atwww.campagnacenter.com; or in person atthe Center. All advanced sale tickets will beheld at the door except those purchased inperson at the Center. Advanced ticket pur-chase is advised due to limited space.

In addition to the parade on Saturday,there is the “Holiday Designer Tour ofHomes” from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This yearthere are five historic properties profession-ally decorated for the holidays by acclaimedinterior designers and local florists.

Properties open this year are 209 S. St.Asaph St., 404 S. Royal St., 19 Franklin St.,801 Duke St., and St. Paul’s EpiscopalChurch at 228 S. Pitt St. The latter will beopen only until 2 p.m. Tickets can be pur-chased at any of the properties the day ofthe tour.

From 3-6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, is theAnnual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights onthe Potomac River. It commences with en-tertainment and restaurant tastings on theCity Docks behind the Torpedo Factory ArtCenter, 195 N. Union St. Santa and Mrs.Claus are scheduled to arrive by fireboat at3:30 p.m.

More than 50 brightly lit and decoratedsail and powerboats will cruise along theriver beginning at 5:30 p.m. For more in-formation on the event contact the Alexan-dria Convention and Visitors Association at703-838-4200 or visit

www.visitalexandriava.com.

BUT, ALL THE FESTIVITIES are not lim-ited to Scottish Walk Weekend. They actu-ally get under way this Friday, Nov. 28, atMarket Square, 301 King St., with the light-ing of Alexandria’s Christmas Tree at 7 p.m.The event will be held rain or shine.

Alexandria Mayor William D. Euille willpresent a holiday message followed by avisit from Santa, a performance by Santa’sFrosty’s Follies by the Metropolitan Fine ArtsCenter, and caroling with a community singalong.

On Saturday, Nov. 29, The Lyceum Mu-seum, 201 S. Washington St., will feature aliving history event entitled “Scottish Heri-tage Preview.” Meet Scottish Tartan Dayleaders and learn about Scottish breed dogswhile enjoying bagpipes, highland dancing,historical re-enactors and more. It is freeand runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Also this Saturday, and again on Sunday,Nov. 29 and 30, Market Square will be filledwith sounds of music of the season. Begin-ning at 1 p.m. on Saturday, AlexandriaKleztet will present traditional and innova-tive Jewish music. She will be followed at2 p.m. by Michael Mulvaney offering holi-day and blues selections. Sunday, Nov. 30,Doris Justis will present folk and acousticholiday music at 2 p.m. At 3 p.m. Lisa Tay-lor with offer more acoustic holiday selec-tions.

Alexandria is noted for its love of dogsand that is only accentuated during theholiday season. To honor that devotion, theAnimal Welfare League of Alexandria willhost “Pet Photos With Santa” at the OldTown School For Dogs, 529 Oronoco St.,

from Friday, Dec. 5 through Sunday, Dec.7.

Both pets and people are welcome to posewith Santa. All proceeds will benefit theAnimal Welfare League of Alexandria andthe Vola Lawson Animal Shelter. To sched-ule an appointment call 703-836-7643.

Scottish Walk Weekend is also the triggerfor individual home decorating. For the nextmonth a trip through almost any section ofAlexandria is a trip throughout the worldholiday decor. That is particularly true inOld Town.

File Photo

The Scottish Weekend is full ofmusic, animals, guests and more.

Holiday Weekend


Christ the SaviourAnglican Church

“To Love & Serve the Lord withGladness & Singleness of Heart”

www.christthesaviouranglican.org

703-953-2854

Location - Washington Mill ES9100 Cherrytree Drive

Worship Service - 10amInter-generational Sunday School - after serviceVicar, The Rev. Huey J Sevier

CHURCHES- AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL-ZIONALLEYNE AME ZION CHURCH…703-548-3888

CHURCHES-ANGLICANCHRIST THE SAVIOR... 703-953-2854

ST. ANDREW & ST. MARGARETOF SCOTLAND… 703-683-3343

CHURCHES- APOSTOLICLOVE OF CHRIST CHURCH…703-518-4404

CHURCHES- BAPTISTALFRED STREET BAPTIST CHURCH…703-683-2222

BAPTIST TEMPLE CHURCH…703-548-8000DEL RAY BAPTIST CHURCH…703-549-8116

DOWNTOWN BAPTIST CHURCH…703-549-5544FIRST AGAPE BAPTIST COMMUNITY OF FAITH…703-519-9100

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF ALEXANDRIA…703-684-3720PROVIDENCE- ST. JOHN BAPTIST CHURCH…703-683-2565

SHILOH BAPTIST…703-683-4573MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH...703-256-1239

VICTORY TEMPLE…703-370-2233PLYMOUTH HAVEN BAPTIST...703-360-4370

CHURCHES-BRETHREN GRACE BRETHREN CHURCH…703-548-1808

ALEXANDRIA CHURCH OF GOD...703-548-5084

BUDDHISMTHE VAJRAYOGINI BUDDHIST CENTER...202-331-2122

CHURCHES- ROMAN CATHOLICGOOD SHEPHERD CATHOLIC CHURCH…703-780-4055

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH…703-836-3725

ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH…703-836-4100

CHURCHES-CHRISTIANHIS KINGDOM MINISTRIES... 703-313-5029

FIRST CHRISTIAN OF ALEXANDRIACHURCH... 703-549-3911

CHURCHES-CHRISTIAN SCIENCEFIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST SCIENTIST

ALEXANDRIA...703-549-7973CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH

MT. VERNON...703-768-2494

CHURCH OF CHRISTALEXANDRIA CHURCH OF CHRIST…703-836-3083

CHURCHES- EPISCOPALEMMANUEL EPISCOPAL CHURCH...703-683-0798ST. AIDAN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH...703-360-4220ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH... 703-780-3081ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH...703-765-4342ST. MARK EPISCOPAL CHURCH...703-765-3949

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CHURCHES-LUTHERANEPIPHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH-ELCA….703-780-5077EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH….703-765-5003

GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERANCHURCH-ELCA….703-548-8608

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH-MISSOURI,SYNOD…703-549-0155

MESSIAH EVENGELICAL LUTHERANCHURCH, ELCA...703-765-5003

NATIVITY LUTHERAN CHURCH-ELCA….703-768-1112

ORTHODOXSAINT APHRAIM SYRIAC…201-312-7678ALL SAINTS OF AMERICA...703-417-9665

CHURCHES- PRESBYTERIANCALVARY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH...703.768.8510

ALEXANDRIA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH…703-683-3348OLD PRESBYTERIAN MEETING HOUSE…703-549-6670

HERITAGE PRESBYTERIAN…703-360-9546MT. VERNON PRESBYTERIAN…703-765-6118

WESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH…703-549-4766

CHURCHES-UNITED METHODISTALDERSGATE UNITED METHODIST...703-765-6555

BEVERLY HILLS COMMUNITY UNITEDMETHODIST...703-836-2406

DEL RAY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH...703-549-2088FAIRLINGTON UNITED METHODIST

CHURCH....703-671-8557ROBERTS MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST

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CHURCH…..703-751-4666TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH…703-549-5500

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WASHINGTON STREET UNITED METHODISTCHURCH…703-836-4324

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CHURCHES- UNITYUNITY IN ALEXANDRIA…703-931-8507

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CONGREGATION…703-998-6460

SYNAGOGUES-ORTHODOXCHABAD LUVAVITCH OF

ALEXANDRIA-ARLINGTON…703-370-2774

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CONGREGATION…703-370-9400

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ALEXANDRIA I WARD...703-683-7577ALEXANDRIA II WARD...703-549-9891

COLONIAL II SINGLES WARD...703-313-6249OLD TOWN SPANISH WARD...703-519-9545

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Visit These Houses of WorshipJoin A Club, Make New Friends, or Expand Your Horizons...

Good ShepherdCatholic Church

Mass ScheduleSaturday Evening5:00 pm; 6:30 pm (en Español)

Sunday7:30; 9:00; 10:30 am; 12:00 Noon2:00 pm (en Español)6:30 pm Mass (Starts Sept. 7)

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

Loving as Christ loves, serving as Christ serves

Weekdays(Mass or Communion Service)9:00 am (followed by Rosary)Children’s Liturgy of the WordSundays (Sept.-July) during 9:00 amMass (English)Sign Language InterpreterSunday at 9:00 am Mass

To Highlight Your Faith Communitycall Karen at: (703) 917-6468 Jefferson Funeral Chapel

703-971-7400

Please call for your free brochureat no obligation to you.

5755 Castlewellan Drive, Alexandria, VA 22315

Funeral & CremationServices

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The County Line

Record Sales at Gun ShowFear of gun controlunder Obama drivesfirearms purchases.

See Record Sales, Page 24

By Julia O’Donoghue

The Connection

Ever since Barack Obama won thepresidential election, DustyMedor’s phone has been ringingoff the hook.

Medor, a soft-spoken bearded gunsmith,runs D & J Gun Repair out of his home inSterling.

Prior to the election, he saw sales drop-ping a bit, which he attributed mostly tothe lagging economy. Now, business isbooming so much that he is struggling torestock merchandise fast enough for cus-tomers.

Gun sales are not only up but Medor isalso overseeing more online “transfers,”when a person has purchased a gun overthe internet and is required by law to sendit to a licensed gun dealer for pick-up.

“Everything sky-rocketed after Nov. 4,”said Medor, sitting behind a long brown caf-eteria table at the Dulles Expo Center inChantilly. He was one of approximately 250

vendors at “The Nation’s Gun Show,” Nov.21-23.

“That table was completely full when Istarted,” said Medor onthe last afternoon of theevent. He pointed to anarea of his station whereonly a handful of hand-guns were on display.That was all he had leftto sell, he said.

HELD IN Fairfax Countyevery two months, “TheNation’s Gun Show” is the largest firearmssale in the mid-Atlantic region. The eventhas always been popular with dealers be-cause it is well run and attracts wealthierclientele than other gun shows, they said.

“This is the richest demographic for a gunshow on the east coast. The buyers tend tobe larger spenders because there is a higherper capita income,” said Lonnie Maurer, avendor from Ohio that specializes in am-munition.

Even with high expectations, most ven-dors still cleared their sales by large mar-gins and broke personal business records.“The Nation’s Gun Show” is typicallyMaurer’s most profitable event but he stillsold three times more ammunition than he

ever has before.Another ammunition dealer, Jonathan

Krull of www.buyammo.com, was almostout all of his merchandiseand had sold more$100,000 worth by theend of the weekend.

“We sold just about ev-erything. Friday was arecord breaker. We soldmore on Friday than wehave ever done in a wholeweekend,” said Krull.

THE PROSPECT of an Obama presidencyand Democratic majority in the U.S. Con-gress scares many gun enthusiasts, who saidObama supported several gun control mea-sures as an Illinois state senator.

“He had a horrible record on guns. Hesupported every gun ban you can imagine,”said Philip Van Cleave, president of the Vir-ginia Citizens Defense League, a local gunrights organization.

On his Web site, Obama states that he“believes the second amendment creates anindividual right and he respects the consti-tutional rights of Americans to bear arms.”

U.S. Sen. Jim Webb (D-Va.), who manyconsider a strong advocate for gun rights,

“Obama is hostile togun owners and weare responding withour wallets.”

— Chuck Nesby, Arlington

See Notebook, Page 24

County Notebook

Schools CutsCould LimitPublic Access

Two services that facilitate transpar-ency in Fairfax County Public Schoolsare on the chopping block as theschool system tries to find cost sav-ings in next year’s budget.

Fairfax County is trying to close aprojected $500 million hole in its over-all budget next year and has asked itsschool system, which receives over 50percent of the county’s general fundrevenue, to brace for cuts.

Under scenarios in which the schoolsystem would have to take reductionof $123 million to $219 million, Su-perintendent Jack Dale has proposedeliminating the “public school pro-files” from the school system’s Web siteand televised school board meetings.

The “schools profiles,” found atwww.fcps.edu, allow parents to com-pare information on schools’ enroll-ments, test scores, demographics,staffing and safety. Televised schoolboard meetings give parents and ac-tivists the opportunity to watch with-out attending the meeting in person.

According to school system docu-ments, parents and residents are ableto find the “school profiles” informa


From Page 1

Community

the second woman to be awardedthe Silver Star since World War II.

The video was followed by six sol-diers stationed at Fort Belvoir whorelated their experiences since join-ing the U.S. Army. Each put their mili-tary service into the perspective ofpersonal service to the nation and thecivil community, the one that nowsurrounds Fort Belvoir and the onesthey expect to become part of aftertheir military enlistments.

As noted by Maj. General RichardRowe, commanding general, Wash-ington Military District, “Fort Belvoiris much more than a military base. Itis a community.”

Fort Belvoir is the largest employerin Fairfax County, with 23,000 fed-eral employees and service members,and home to more than 3,500 familymembers.

BRAC will add another 19,300 per-sonnel triggering an estimated $4 bil-lion construction and infrastructurebuilding boom.

But, “It’s not just BRAC that is mov-ing the post into the forefront of themilitary’s installation framework butother defense-related expansion aswell,” according to Blixt. It is thingssuch as the 450-person Warrior Tran-sition Unit, the National Museum of

the U.S. Army, and the various infra-structure improvements within thebase and surrounding communitiesthat is transforming it into the newcentury’s showpiece.

“We have three basic priorities —

Belvoir’s Community Outreach: BRAC and Beyond

Beyond BRACIn addition to the BRAC projects, there are

approximately 30 to 40 other projects underway at Fort Belvoir that relate to Base improve-ments as well as project that directly impactthe surrounding communities. Some of thelatter include:

❖ A new state-of-the-art Emergency ServiceCenter with fire and police assets to supportNGA, main post, and mutual assistance re-gional agreements.

❖ Construction of the Woodlawn Road re-placement artery known as Mulligan Road toconnect Route 1 and Telegraph Road.

❖ Gunston Road, the major artery on post,will be expanded to four lanes, including theexpansion of the bridge over Rt.1, with the po-tential of accepting future widening of Rt.1.

❖ Pohick Road, the post’s main artery for

visitors and employees, will be expanded tofour lanes from Rt. 1 to Gunston Road. PohickRoad will be initial project followed by im-provements to Belvoir Road, according toMoffatt.

❖ Construction of a new 37,000-sq.-ft. state-of-the-art child development/education centerfor 338 children of service members and eli-gible federal employees.

❖ A new, fully equipped fire station that willsupport the main post and Ft. Belvoir regionalmutual aid agreements.

In total an expenditure of approximately $80million is forecast for base infrastructure im-provements. These projects encompass notonly transportation arteries but also water andsewer lines and upgrades to electrical facilitiesand lines.

force protection, personnel, and infrastruc-ture improvement. We want to make youfeel you are on the best base in the Armywhen you visit here,” Blixt told the break-fast audience.

WITH THAT Col. Mark Moffatt, deputyinstallation commander for BRAC, FortBelvoir, walked the group through a seriesof activities now under way or planned tomeet the Sept. 15, 2011 BRAC completiondeadline. “If you think we’ve done a lot sofar wait until you come to this breakfast nextyear,” Moffatt said.

“BRAC will bring a net gain of 19,300personnel to Fort Belvoir. This will be inaddition to the present post personnelcomplement of 23,000,” he said.

New personnel will be located at themain post, 3,400; Engineering ProvingGrounds (EPG) in the Springfield area,

8,500, the new home of the NationalGeospatial-Intelligence Agency; and at theMark Center in Alexandria, 6,400, the newhome of a composite of agencies knownas The Washington Headquarters Servicesand BRAC 133.

Another 1,000 personnel will be relocatedto Rivanna Station, an existing appendageof Fort Belvoir just north of Charlottesville,Va. The latter group is composed of DefenseIntelligence Agency personnel and intelli-gence analysis functions from the NationalCapital Region and Bolling Air Force Base.

There are 2,140 personnel leaving FortBelvoir as a result of BRAC. The majority ofthat group, 1,440 personnel of the ArmyMateriel Command, were transferred toBelvoir following the attacks of Sept. 11,2001 from what is now known as VictoryCenter on Eisenhower Avenue in Alexan-dria. They will be relocated to Red StoneArsenal in Alabama. The other 700 arespread over four additional agencies, ac-cording to Moffatt.

ADDRESSING THE NEW $1.77 billion

NGA facility, now rising at the EPG, Moffattsaid, “This facility is moving at a very fastpace.” Building construction is now eightpercent complete.

The other main post facility “moving at avery fast pace” is the new DeWitt ArmyCommunity Hospital. This expanded 120-bed facility is scheduled for completion inAugust 2010. The first patients are expectedin April 2011, according to Moffatt.

A critical community element of the BRACrealignment is completion of the last linkof the Fairfax County Parkway, on the edgeof the EPG. “Construction of this last linkwill be completed in four phases. But, rightnow, money wise, we are short of what isrequired to finish this entire project,” hesaid.

“This road must be completed by the timethe 8,500 personnel of NGA arrive at theirnew headquarters,” Moffatt told the audi-ence. A groundbreaking ceremony was heldon Oct. 31 to mark the commencement ofthis joint effort of the U.S. Army, VirginiaDepartment of Transportation and FederalHighway Administration.

Brig. Gen. Dennis Rogers (left), National Capital District Director, joinsFt. Belvoir Installation Commander Col. Jerry Blixt, in outlining thebase’s increased importance to the region as a result of BRAC.

Nat Wilson, board chair,Mt.Vernon-Lee Chamber of Com-merce, expresses the Chamber’sgratitude to Ft. Belvoir InstallationCommander Col. Jerry Blixt forkeeping the community informedas to changes occurring at the Postas a result of BRAC.

State Del.Mark Sickles(D-43), left,joins LeeDistrict Su-pervisorJeffrey McKayat the annualFt. BelvoirCommunityRelationsBreakfast.

“If you think we’ve donea lot so far, wait until youcome to this breakfastnext year.”

— Col. Mark Moffatt,deputy installation commander,

BRAC


SportsMount Vernon Gazette Editor Mark Giannotto

703-917-6409 or [email protected]

Emerging from the ShadowsArea boy’s basketballteams must findnewcomers to fill voidof departed stars.

Mt. Vernon at a GlanceCoach: Alfonso SmithPlayer to Watch: Skylar Jones, juniorLast Season: 16-9 overall, 12-3 National

DistrictFirst Game: Dec. 2 against South

County

W. Potomac at a GlanceCoach: David Houston IIIPlayer to Watch: Martez Redfirm, jun-

iorLast Season: 14-12 overall, 7-10 Patriot

DistrictFirst Game: Dec. 2 at Washington-Lee

West Potomac will rely on youngsters like sophomore Daryl Copeland tohelp deal with the loss of a seven-member senior class from last season.

By Mark Giannotto

The Gazette

When it comes to now-gradu-ated star guard Marquel De-Lancey, Mount Vernoncoach Alfonso Smith is be-

ing realistic. He knows a single player won’tjust step up and fill the void left by last year’sNational District Player of the Year, who isnow at Old Dominion.

But Smith also understands that if hisMajors sit around and lust for the 19 pointsand four assists per game that De Lanceytook with him, no good will come of it. Still,replacing De Lancey is at the top of the todo list for a Mount Vernon team looking toexact revenge after being upset by Yorktownin the National District tournament final forthe second-consecutive season.

“It’s great for the program as a whole, butit’s certainly a loss that you feel,” Smith saidof De Lancey. “These guys have the chal-lenge that Marquel left his legacy and nowthese guys have the chance to step up andcreate one of their own.”

One player who Smith has foremost onhis mind is junior Skylar Jones, the team’sleading rebounder from last season. Alwaysa tantalizing talent, Jones suffered througha devastating knee injury his freshman sea-son, but bounced back with a solid sopho-more season a year ago. Now, the coachthinks Jones is on the brink of somethingspecial.

“I think he’s going to turn a lot of headsthis year,” said Smith. “He’s going to comeout of Marquel’s shadow.”

But it won’t be just Jones that will haveto shoulder all the scoring burden this sea-son. The Majors also return point guard

Robert Smith, a back-up behind De Lanceylast season, who will be the primary ballhandler running the show for the Majors.

Second-team all district forward RobertColeman also is back, along with guardJesse Canate, a player Smith singled out ashaving made significant improvements tohis game over the off season.

Six-foot-four senior Kyle Ricks should addsome bulk in the interior, a weakness lastyear for the fast-paced Majors. Ricks did notplay on the team last season.

Still, though, the specter of De Lanceyremains, and it is up to the current crop ofMount Vernon stars to prove they can fillthe void. In terms of talent, there’s no ques-tion the Majors can do it. But talent doesn’tguarantee championships.

“You hope that taste of hunger is still thereand I believe that it is, I’m confident that itis,” said Smith. “But there’s nobody in thedistrict that you can take lightly, so we’rereally going to have to work.”

WEST POTOMAC coach David HoustonIII knows replacing experience can be diffi-cult, but the prospect of a high scoring, al-beit less seasoned team this year has himexcited about what could be when it’s allsaid and done in the Patriot District.

That also means not necessarily follow-ing the same script of last year’s senior-

laden team, which started the season slow,ended the regular season as hot as any teamin the region, and then fizzled once it facedLangley in the first round of the regionalplayoffs.

“The goal is to take the baby steps throughthe end of the year,” Houston said of hiscurrent squad featuring just two seniors.“This year’s team needs to just build everyday and when the playoffs come, be at thehighest level we can play and ride that

through the playoffs.In his fifth season at the helm, Houston

may just have his most athletic team despitelosing seven players to graduation. And whilethey are young, the Wolverines will dependon veterans like junior point guard ShawnLee, junior wing Martez Redfirm, and seniorWill Kreger to carry them through the earlyportions of their schedule as a team chockfull of youngsters gets acquainted to compe-tition at the varsity level.

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azette

On Saturday, Nov. 15, black belt tests were heldat Viet Le’s World Karate School, located in theSacramento Shopping Center at on Route 1.The following individuals passed a series oftests in punching, kicking, forms, sparring, andbreaking for their first, second, or third degreeblack belts: First Degree -Christian Escobar,Anavinh Samreth, K. Patrick Perando, BrianWilliams, Loyd Coonrod, Joshua S. Wood,Joshua Rios, Phoenix Reeder, Julia Le, ShaineN. Ryan, Christina Ryan, Patrick Rowland,Tommy Reichelt, and Sokhom Samreth, andDeirdre Le; Second Degree - Brandon Le, NicoleLe, and Richard D. Dobson; Third Degree - JohnPringle. Viet Le, Thomas Lucas, and Keith Jonesconducted the tests.

18 Earn Black Belts


Record Sales at Gun Showalso tried to guarantee that Obama would not

clamp down on an individual’s right to bear arms.During the presidential campaign, Webb made

appearances with Obama in which he assured thecrowd that the now President-elect would not imple-ment overbearing gun control laws. The senator alsorecorded a least one political advertisement for theradio that drove home the same point.

FEAR OF WHAT restrictions might be coming hasled to an increase gun and ammunition sales, par-ticularly over the past month. Annette Eliot, one of“The Nation’s Gun Show” promoters, estimatedabout 15,000 people attended the show last week-end, nearly 50 percent more than normally showup.

“Obama is the most anti-gun president we haveever had in history and people are afraid,” said Eliotof the high attendance. “About two weeks before theelection, sales started really picking up and [NationalRifle Association] memberships are up.”

During the weekend show, some vendors ran outof the background check forms people fill out whenpurchasing a gun, a shortage Elliot, who has beeninvolved in gun show promotion for three decades,had never seen before. Several dealers have beenunable to get more guns and ammunition to sellbecause of the high demand, she said.

“Manufacturers are running out of certain items.Vendors are telling me that they have only been ableto get one or two guns when they can normally get20. I had one guy who sold out of guns on Fridaynight right after the show opened,” she said.

SEVERAL gun rights activists expect Obama to tryto revive the “assault weapons ban” that passed dur-ing President Bill Clinton’s term in office.

The law prohibited the sale of certain semi-auto-matic rifles to civilians and limited ammunition feed-ing devices, known as “magazines,” to 10 rounds.

These products became legal once again when theban expired in the 2004, but were in particularlyhigh demand at the gun show.

“The high capacity magazines and guns that gowith them, you can’t even get them anymore. Youhave an especially hard time finding anything thatwas banned,” said Medor.

With his eyes glued to the computer screen, Medor,like several other gun dealers, hoped to find a supplier

online who still had “military style” rifles available.But none of the gun manufacturers appeared to

have a single “AR-15,” a semi-automatic rifle thatresembles the fully automatic “M-16” used by the U.S.military. One supplier told Medor that there was asix to 12-month backlog on that type of gun.

“Everyone wants to buy one before they are toldthey can’t,” he said.

Some local gun enthusiasts are freely admitting tohoarding firearms and supplies because of the un-certainty.

“Obama is hostile to gun owners and we are re-sponding with our wallets. I am going to buy as manyguns as I can at the Dulles gun show,” said ChuckNesby, an Arlington resident and Virginia CitizensDefense League member.

NESBY AND OTHERS admitted that the incomingDemocratic administration might not be the only rea-son people are buying guns in greater numbers.

Nesby said he is also worried about the deteriora-tion of the economy, rising unemployment and whatthey could do to the crime rate.

“People are aiming to protect themselves,” he said.“Gun sales typically increase when there is a down-

turn in the economy. People are fearful they are go-ing to get robbed or their car is going to get stolen,”said Eliot.

Several dealers packed up and left “TheNation’s Gun Show” at the Dulles ExpoCenter before its final day Nov. 23 becausethey had already sold out of merchandise.

From Page 21

Pho

to

by Julia O

’Do

no

ghue/T

he G

azette

The County Line

tion on the Virginia Department of Education’sWeb site, albeit in a less organized fashion. Cuttingthe program would save $389,853 next year, accord-ing to school budget documents.

If the school system ceases to televise its meet-ings, officials could save an additional $30,800.

— Julia O’Donoghue

No New Trailers to EaseEnrollment Increases?

Fairfax County Public Schools has proposed cut-ting $250,000 of its $3.75 million in “temporaryclassroom funding” for next year, in spite of the factthat school officials expect to gain as many as 5,000additional students before the fall of 2009.

Reducing money for the purchase of temporary

From Page 21

County Notebook

classrooms, otherwise known as trailers andmodulars, is a bit risky given the enrollment projec-tions. But the schools chief operating officer DeanTistadt said the school system already owns trailersit is not currently using.

“We haven’t bought many trailers in quite sometime. Some schools with trailers don’t really needthem,” said Tistadt.

The official said proposals to increase class size willalso help mitigate enrollment increases, since someexisting classrooms should become available as thenumber of classes becomes fewer in number.

The main impact of the cut would be on the qual-ity of trailers schools would be receiving. Most schoolslike work with multi-classroom modulars that comewith two to four instructional spaces. Tistadt will notbe able to purchase those types of classrooms nextyear if the cuts goes through, he said.

— Julia O’Donoghue


Zone 3 Ad Deadline:

Tuesday 4 p.m.

703-917-6464

Zone 3: • Alexandria

• Mount VernonEmploymentEmployment

EXPERIENCE THE JOYS AND REWARDS

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live-ins, medical benefits offered.Home Instead Senior Care.Call Today: 703-750-6665

COMPANIONS &CNA’s NEEDED

MAIL CLERKEpiscopal High School, located in Northern Virginia, is seeking a part-time post office clerk to provide backup support to the Post Office Supervisor. The post office clerk, un-der the direction of the post office supervisor, is responsible for assisting with sorting and distributing all incoming mail and packages to students and staff, assisting with the prepa-ration of outgoing letters and/or packages, and maintaining the student bank accounts utilizing ODIN Software. This position is a Monday through Friday position, 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM, without benefits. We offer free meals when school is in session. Interested candidates should send a cover letter and re-sume [email protected] or fax to 703-933-3019, attention Melissa Martinez. No phone inquiries or walk-ins. E.E.O.

MEDICAL BILLING/ FRONT DESK

ALEX/ARL. P/T, 3-4 days. Private medical office needs very reliable and prof indiv with strong billing exp. Good salary, great office. Call: 301-469-7211.

Need an Extra $500 - $1000 per mo. to pay Bills ??

Call Sue @ 703-451-5864Email: [email protected]

www.youravon.com/sanderson5864

NURSE PRACTITIONER OR PAExperienced in Diabetes for busy

Endocrine Practice, Mount Vernon, Alexandria area. Full Time.

Please fax resume to 703-360-0263or call Diann Weaver 703-360-8383

PRESCHOOL TEACHERSPosition Avail. for Full-time Preschool teacher at Alexandria Center. Bachelors Degree. At least 2 years experience required. Competitive Salary & Med Benefits. Earned Leave & All Federal Holidays Off, Paid Annual Training, 401K. Fax Resume 703-425-2703 or Email Resume: [email protected]

EOE

WE WANT YOU!Toys “R” Us

The World’s Largest Specialty Toy Retailer IsNow Hiring For The Following Positions In OurAlexandria, Va Store:

• Positions Include,

• Overnight Stockers,

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• And Guest Service Team Members.

We Are Looking For Individuals Who AreCommitted To Providing Outstanding Service ToOur Guests. If You Are Dependable And ReadyTo Take On Responsibility, We’ll Teach You TheRest. We Offer A Flexible Schedule, Along WithAn Associate Discount. If This Sounds ExcitingTo You Please Apply On-line At:

Www.ruscareers.comEOE

RECEPTIONISTEpiscopal High School in Alexandria, VA, is seeking a full-time receptionist. This is a 12-month position which includes a full ben-efits package. Responsibilities include an-swering a multi-line telephone, greeting walk-in guests, and providing back-up sup-port for the Administrative Assistant to the Headmaster. The ideal candidate is a pro-fessional with a minimum of five years ex-perience in an office setting. Computer and customer service skills are a must. Interest-ed candidates should send a cover letter and resume to [email protected] or fax to 703-933-3019, attention Melissa Mar-tinez. No phone inquiries or walk-ins. E.E.O.

SALES REP - EARN $48KExclusive Territory

Will Train800-517-6989

Technicians

Looking for self motivated, FT employ-ees for Northern VA area company. No exp. required, will provide on the job training. Good pay, full benefits. D/L re-quired and CDL a plus. Call 800-248-8733, ext 4435 for more information.

BEST CHILDCARE JOBS!F/T, P/T, On-Call, Top Salaries

No Fees, Must be 21, Legal & DriveReferences Req’d703-838-2100

White House Nannies, Inc

Lic. #7363

NO JOB TOO BIG NO JOB TOO SMALL Residential & Commercial

ASPHALT ASPHALT

A UniqueDetailed & OrderlyCleaning Service

20 yrs. exp.Lic. Bonded, Ins.

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CLEANING CLEANING

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A&S Construction

703-863-7465LICENSED

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

• Additions •Kitchens• Basements •Comm Offices•Decks •Painting •Drywall•Windows & Wood Repairs703-644-5206 • 703-750-0749

STRONG PACE CONSTRUCTION15 Yrs Class A VA Lic.

Rotten Wood, Wind Damage, Trims,Windows, Doors, Deck, Stairs, Vanity,

Basement Framing, Garbage Disposal,Painting, Power Wash, Siding Repairs.

Licensed, Bonded, Insured

703-266-1233

M. C. LynchHome Improvement

Family Owned & Opererated

IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTS

A&S LANDSCAPINGFall Cleanup • Planting • Mulching •Sodding • Patios • Decks • Retaining

Walls • Drainage Solutions

703-863-7465

LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING

•Patios •Walkways•Retaining Walls

•Drainage Problems•Landscape MakeoversCall: 703-912-6886

Free Estimates

J.E.S ServicesLANDSCAPE & CONSTRUCTION

LAWN SERVICE LAWN SERVICE

Specializing in CustomStone and Brick Walkways, Patios,

& Small and Large RepairsLicensed, Insured

• Free estimates • All work guaranteed •www.motternmasonry.comPhone 703-496-7491

MOTTERN MASONRY DESIGN

MASONRY MASONRY

PaintingDrywall • Wallpaper

Exc. Refs., Quality Service, Neatness,Interior & Exterior, Resid. & Comm.

571-259-9348703-960-4671

Designs & Murals available

PAINTING PAINTING

Professional Serviceand Quality Workmanship

JAMES R. CAMPBELLPainting Contractor

Since1977

Other Services:• Custom Colors• Wallpaper Removal• Water Damage

• Drywall/Plaster Repairs• Stain and Sealing• Power Washing• Rotten Wood Replacement

540-894-5004FreeEstimates

OwnerOperated

FALL SPECIAL10% to 20% OFF All Services

Nuance Painting Inc.Family Owned and Operated

Serving Northern Virginia for Over a DecadeWinner of American Painting Contractors

Residential Top Job AwardResidential and Commercial Services

• Interior and Exterior Painting• Faux Finishing

• Drywall Hanging, Finishing and Repairs• Interior Moldings Crown-Chair Rail-Shadow Boxing

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• General Contractor Services• For Evaluation and Consultation Call

703-437-3037Licensed Insured

On the web at www.nuancepainting.comWe Accept

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• Mount Vernon

Home & GardenHome & GardenCONTRACTORS.comconnectionnewspapers.com


Home & GardenHome & GardenCONTRACTORS.comconnectionnewspapers.com

CLEANING

A CLEANING SERVICE

Since 1985/Ins & BondedQuality Service at a Fair Price

Satisfaction GuaranteedComm/Res. MD VA DCacleaningserviceinc.com

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CONCRETE

RATCLIFFCONSTRUCT.

CO.Concrete & Brick Stone Specialist

Additions & Basemnts 4th Generation,

Class A Lic & Ins Free Est.

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$120 half cord$210 full cord

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LEAFREMOVALGUTTER

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703-802-0483GROUP RATES

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Metro GutterClean/Install/Repair

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• Wood Replace & Wrapping• Pressure Washing,• Chimney Sweeping & Repair

metrogutter.com

HANDYMAN

RCL HOME REPAIRSHandyman Services

Springfld • Burke • Kingstowne

Light Electrical • Plumbing • Bathroom Renovation •

Ceramic Tile • Drywall Repair

703-922-4190www.rclhomerepairs.com

Licensed Insured

Construction Debris,Residential, Office

& Tree Removal

ANGEL’S TRASH HAULING

703-863-1086New#- 571-312-7227

AL’S HAULINGJunk & RubbishConcrete, furn.,office,

yard, construction debrisLow Rates NOVA

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RICK’SHAULING POWERWASHING PAINTINGYard Debris Decks Interior-ExteriorFurniture Sidewalks Deck Staining

Appliances Houses Gutter CleaningConcrete etc Mobile Homes etc Gutter Guards

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HOME INSPECTION LISTREPAIRS, CERAMIC TILE,PAINTING, DRYWALL,CARPENTRY, CUSTOMWOOD REPAIR, LT. PLUMBING &ELECTRICAL, POWER WASHING

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•Mulch•Clean-up Grounds

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Zone 3 Ad Deadline:

Tuesday Noon

703-917-6400


• Mount VernonClassifiedClassified

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGON PROPOSED 2009 BUDGET

Fairfax County Water Authority (Fairfax Water) is proposing a $150.0million budget for calendar year 2009.

On Thursday, December 11, 2008, Fairfax Water will conduct a publichearing on its proposed 2009 Budget in its offices at 8570 Executive ParkAvenue, Fairfax. The public hearing will begin at 6:30 p.m. A copy ofthe proposed budget can be viewed on our website athttp://www.fairfaxwater.org/. Those wishing to speak at this hearing ordesiring a copy of the proposed budget should call Ms. Eva Catlin at 703-289-6017.

Revenues are expected to be $150.0 million in 2009. Water sales areexpected to provide $125.1 million. Approximately $24.9 million isexpected from connection charges, investment income and other sources.

The major areas of operation and maintenance expense are:

-- $1,000s --Category 2008 2009Personal Services & Employee Benefits $40,719 $42,788Power and Utilities 11,015 13,191Chemicals 9,288 10,625Fuel 989 1,028Postage 419 449Insurance 1,254 1,289Supplies and Materials 3,492 3,694Contractual Services 6,109 6,797Professional Services 1,321 1,364Other 1,964 1,981Sub-Total 76,570 83,206Transfer to Improvement Fund (8,574) (8,667)Total $67,996 $74,539

Net revenues are expected to be appropriated as follows:Debt Payment $37,687,000Improvement Fund $11,000,000

General Fund $25,710,000

NOTICE OF WATER RATEPUBLIC HEARING

At 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 11, 2008, Fairfax Water will con-duct a public hearing on its proposed Schedule of Rates, Fees andCharges. The hearing will be held in Fairfax Water’s offices at 8570Executive Park Avenue, Fairfax, VA.

The proposed changes, to be effective April 1, 2009, include thefollowing:

1. An increase in the availability charge from $3,850 to $3,950†.2. An increase in the Local Facilities Charge from $6,400 to $7,600.3. An increase in the Service Connection Charge from $800 to $850†.4. An increase in the Account Charge from $28 to $29.5. An increase in the Quarterly Billing Service Charge from

$6.25 to $7.05†.6. An increase in the base Commodity Charge from $1.70 to $1.83

per 1,000 gallons of water.7. An increase in the Peak Use Charge from $2.65 to $2.70 per 1,000

gallons of water.8. An increase in the Turn Off/Turn On Charge from $40 to $42.9. An increase in the Fees for Use of Fairfax Water Fire Hydrants to

include the increase in the Commodity Charge and the Peak UseCharge.

10. An increase in the Sewer Use Meters Charge from $36 to $3711. An increase in the Returned Payment Charge from $13 to $14.

A copy of the proposed changes can be viewed on our website athttp://www.fairfaxwater.org/rates/index.htm. Those wishing to speak atthis hearing or desiring a copy of the proposed changes should call Ms.Eva Catlin at 703-289-6017.

†Charges reflect fees associated with a standard 5/8” residential meter.Changes in charges for larger residential and commercial meters arereflected in the Proposed Schedule of Rates, Fees, and Charges.

21 Announcements 21 Announcements

PIANOS1/2 Price

After more than 50 yrs - we’re closing out!Band Instruments, guitars, violins,

office file cabs. & desks.Pianos starting at $995

Call Gordon Keller703-548-8833

29 Misc. for Sale

3 RE for Rent

Alex, Kingstowne, 3 BR, 2.5 BA, 3 lvl, TH, with garage,

behind Kingstowne Center,Like New!

$2100 301-537-6256

15 Getaways

Enjoy warm beach waters past Labor Day

Extend your beach season into the fall with soothing and warmer ocean waters at this Sunset Beach, NC vacation home. Furnished 3 or 4 bdrm, 2 bath, $525,000. Newly remodeled, bright

and airy beach island home on a secluded area of the is-land surrounded by views of the canal, marsh and ocean inlet. Sit on one of the newly built front porches (1 screened) and capture a gorgeous sunrise with your morning coffee or unwind with friends in the evening on the back deck and experi-ence stunning sunset views. Whether you're looking for

an investment property with excellent rental history, a vacation home on a unique island, or a little bit of both, this is the house for you.

Sunset Beach, a small barri-er reef island 2 1/2 miles long and 1/3 mile wide, is quiet and family oriented and only 30 minutes from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Call Carly or David at 336-282-1870 for more details

26 Antiques

We consign/pay top $ for antique/semi antique furn.

including mid century & danish modern Teak

furniture, sterling, mens watches, painting/art glass,

clocks, jewelry, costume jewelry, etc. Call Schefer

Antiques @ 703-241-0790.34 Pets

4 gorgeous purebred Persian kittens

born September 18. 2 White, 1 Blue with patches of cream, 1 tabby-located in Reston Call

703-471-8444 for photos or email [email protected]

101 Computers

HDIEASY COMPUTER SOLUTIONS

FOR INDIVIDUALS& SMALL BUSINESSES

JENNIFER O. SMITHCOMPUTER CONSULTANT

[email protected]

➣ TRAINING

➣ INSTALLATION

➣ TROUBLE-SHOOTING

➣ LET US TAME THATBEAST FOR YOU

(703) 765-2222Serving Area Since 1995

21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements

21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements


fromAlexandria ~ Mount Vernon WeichertAlexandria ~ Belle View Weichert

Happy ThanksgivingHappy Thanksgiving

Louise Kraft

30th30th

Contact EMMA TUERK703-360-7400Alexandria/Mount Vernon Office8301 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria, VA 22309

Contact PAUL KAPPEL(703) 765-4000

Alexandria/Belle View Office1612 Belle View Blvd., Alexandria, VA 22307

Vol. XIX, No. 48 Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A...

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Transcript of Vol. XIX, No. 48 Mount Vernon’s Hometown Newspaper • A...